Select one of the prompts below and follow the directions. Your essay should be three paragraphs and must have a thesis statement in the first paragraph. Be sure to develop your ideas fully and to refer to the passage read in the section.
Some of the relatively recent stories and poems in this unit may be ignored by future readers, and others may gain staying power and appear over and over in anthologies like the one you are using. Select the one that you think will last and one that, in your opinion, will be soon forgotten. Explain your choices in a short essay.
"I Want to Be Miss America" by Ju.lia Alvarez:
In the collection of stories and poems that I have read, one piece that I believe will continue to be remembered and included in anthologies is "I Want to Be Miss America" by Julia Alvarez. This poignant story explores the themes of identity, cultural expectations, and the pursuit of the American dream. Alvarez's powerful writing and relatable characters make this story a timeless piece of literature. On the other hand, a story that may soon be forgotten is "Marriage is a Private Affair" by Chinua Achebe, which lacks the same universal appeal and relevance.
"I Want to Be Miss America" is a compelling story that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Through the eyes of a young girl named Anita, Alvarez delves into the complexities of cultural identity as she navigates her dual heritage as a Dominican-American. The story explores the pressure Anita feels to conform to societal expectations and norms, particularly regarding beauty and success. These themes are not only relevant in the cultural context in which the story is set but also transcendent and relatable to readers from diverse backgrounds.
Alvarez's storytelling abilities are exceptional, and her prose captures the emotions and experiences of the characters in a vivid and captivating way. Through her vivid descriptions and powerful imagery, Alvarez brings Anita's struggles and dreams to life, making the story memorable and impactful. The universal themes of identity and the pursuit of dreams ensure that "I Want to Be Miss America" will continue to be appreciated and included in future anthologies.
In contrast, "Marriage is a Private Affair" by Chinua Achebe may be overshadowed and forgotten in the future. While Achebe is a renowned Nigerian writer and his works have been acclaimed for their exploration of post-colonial African identity, this particular short story does not possess the same staying power as some of his other works. The story follows the conflict between generations and cultural traditions in a Nigerian family when the son chooses to marry outside of his tribe.
While the story raises important issues and challenges cultural norms, it lacks the universal appeal and relatability that would ensure its enduring presence in anthologies. The plot feels somewhat predictable and the characters do not possess the same depth and complexity as those in "I Want to Be Miss America." Additionally, the story's focus on specific cultural and societal issues may limit its resonance with readers who do not share the same cultural background.
Overall, "I Want to Be Miss America" by Julia Alvarez has the potential to be remembered and included in anthologies for years to come. Its exploration of themes of identity, cultural expectations, and the pursuit of the American dream, alongside Alvarez's captivating storytelling and relatable characters, make it a timeless piece of literature. In contrast, "Marriage is a Private Affair" by Chinua Achebe lacks the same universal appeal and may soon be forgotten due to its predictable plot and limited relatability.