Write a four paragraph literary essay in response to the following question. Be sure to include a thesis statement in your introduction, provide textual evidence in the body paragraphs, and end the essay with a strong conclusion. You may use your books and other notes you have during the course for reference.
This semester you read several memoirs, including pieces by Ernesto Galarza and Russell Baker. Return to “Barrio Boy” and “No Gumption” now. How are these two memoirs similar? How are they different? In what ways are the authors’ choices and depictions related to the subject matter of their stories?
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1294813834
Keep in mind that no one here will do your work for you, but we'll be happy to critique your thinking and check over what you write.
Good luck with your LC Semester Test Part 2 on k12 :P
Mrs. Brownlow your teacher?
Introduction:
In the memoirs "Barrio Boy" by Ernesto Galarza and "No Gumption" by Russell Baker, we are offered two distinct perspectives on childhood experiences. While both memoirs highlight the authors' upbringing and their struggles with poverty and societal limitations, they differ in their approach to storytelling and the lessons learned. Galarza’s memoir focuses on the transformative power of education and the desire for a better life, while Baker’s memoir emphasizes the importance of perseverance and self-belief. By examining the similarities and differences between these two memoirs, we can gain a deeper understanding of how the authors' choices and depictions contribute to the overall subject matter of their stories.
Body Paragraph 1:
Both "Barrio Boy" and "No Gumption" share commonalities in terms of the authors' upbringing and the challenges they faced. Galarza and Baker both grew up in working-class families and confronted poverty, which influenced their everyday lives. In "Barrio Boy," Galarza describes his experiences as a Mexican immigrant in America, navigating the complexities of language and cultural assimilation. Similarly, Baker shares his own childhood struggles in "No Gumption," recounting his efforts to overcome his father's lack of ambition and the limitations of his rural community. These shared experiences of poverty and ambition demonstrate the authors' desire for upward mobility, regardless of their contrasting cultural backgrounds.
Body Paragraph 2:
The memoirs also diverge in their storytelling techniques and the lessons learned by the authors. Galarza's writing style in "Barrio Boy" is marked by vivid and descriptive imagery, bringing the reader into the colorful and vibrant world of his childhood. His focus on education as a way to escape poverty and gain a better life is evident throughout the memoir. Galarza's experiences in school, his determination to learn English, and his eventual journey to higher education showcase his belief in the transformative power of knowledge. On the other hand, Baker's "No Gumption" utilizes a more self-reflective and humorous tone. He emphasizes the importance of personal motivation and resilience, highlighting his own struggles to find his passion and overcome his father's disapproval. Through his witty storytelling, Baker encourages readers to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams, even in the face of adversity.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Barrio Boy" and "No Gumption" offer readers unique insights into the authors' childhood experiences and the impact of poverty and societal limitations. While Galarza's memoir centers around the pursuit of education as a means of achieving a better life, Baker's memoir emphasizes personal motivation and resilience. By analyzing the similarities and differences in these memoirs, readers gain a deeper understanding of the authors' choices and depictions, which serve to enhance the overall subject matter of their stories. Both memoirs remind us of the power of determination and the importance of pushing past societal constraints to achieve our goals and dreams.