Stories can mean different things to different readers. State a meaning you find in “The Pedestrian,” and then discuss how the story’s setting is relevant to that meaning.
This is my question, I am confused as to what they mean by meaning. Could someone explain?
A __________ sets up one's argument and provides a basis from which one will build his or her essay.
Certainly! "Meaning" in literature refers to the underlying message or theme that the author intends to convey through their story. It is the deeper understanding or insight that readers can derive from the text.
In the case of "The Pedestrian," a short story by Ray Bradbury, you're asked to state a meaning that you find in the story. This means you should identify a particular message or idea that you think the author is trying to communicate.
To determine the meaning in a story like "The Pedestrian," you should consider the main themes, character development, and symbols present in the text. Look for recurring concepts or ideas that are explored throughout the narrative.
Once you have identified a possible meaning, you can then discuss how the story's setting is relevant to that meaning. The setting refers to the time and place in which the story takes place, and it often plays a significant role in developing and enhancing the story's themes or messages.
In the case of "The Pedestrian," the setting is a futuristic and dystopian city where the majority of society isolates themselves indoors, consumed by technology and television. The protagonist, Leonard Mead, is the only pedestrian who walks at night. One possible meaning in the story could be the dangers of conformity, the loss of individuality, or the dehumanizing effects of technology.
For example, you could explain how the setting of the story reflects a society that has prioritized technology and entertainment over human connection and freedom. Discuss how the seeming absence of any other pedestrians or people outside highlights this conformity and isolation. You can also analyze how the barren and empty streets symbolize the loss of human presence and engagement.
By analyzing the setting and how it connects to the identified meaning, you can better understand the author's intentions and gain a deeper appreciation for the story's thematic elements.