Here are all the prompts. I encourage you to read all of them, even if you haven't read the story yet. It'll give you something to pay attention to while reading
"Two Kinds”
Prompt: Who am I? Whether you directly ask yourself that question or not, there’s a good chance you think about your identity in every situation you find yourself in—in the snackatorium*: who am I—with your family: who am I—at your job: who am I, and the list goes on and on. Think about all things that make you who you are: your personality, other people’s expectations, who you actually want to become, your culture, your family’s social class, etc. Do you think everyone has the choice to be whatever they want to be in life, or are there certain realities that prevent this from happening for some people, or even all people? Be sure to discuss “Two Kinds” in your response.
“Interpreter of Maladies”
Prompt: In our daily conversations and interactions, we often hear what we want to hear or see what we want to see in order to suit our own needs or desires. As a result, misunderstandings and miscommunications are a part of our everyday lives. It may be a cliché, but everyone is different, and that often makes it challenging for us to see someone’s point of view on a topic. And while that can be annoying and frustrating, we usually figure out what another person means or at least intends. Or do we? “Interpreter of Maladies” seems to suggest the challenges, if not the impossibility, of fully understanding another human being. What do you think? Is it possible to truly and fully understand other people? Is it possible to fully understand yourself, to know who you are? Be sure to reference “Interpreter of Maladies” in your response.
“Everyday Use”
Prompt: How many times in your life have you heard, “wow, those people are really behind the times,” or “they need to start living in the 21st century”? Our society puts a great emphasis on forward progress: being up-to-date with current trends, technology, and ways of thinking. And, indeed, we cannot stop progress. Yet, think about the cost of fitting in and keeping up with the times, especially if people are prejudiced against you in the first place. Are there situations where it’s okay, even admirable, to live in the “past”, to live a simple life? Why or why not? Use “Everyday Use” to support your response.
“What You Pawn I Will Redeem”
Prompt: At some point in life, everyone will experience suffering and sadness. The most obvious response to such dark times is to agonize and dwell on the tragedy, whatever it may be. Some individuals, however, also respond to suffering with a lighthearted and humorous outlook, not out of disrespect, but as a way to be more optimistic (positive) about the world. Do you think humor can be meaningful or valuable during tragedies or suffering, or do you find it as a way to dodge reality, one’s real emotions? Be sure to include Sherman Alexie’s “What You Pawn I Will Redeem” in your response.
“Sonny’s Blues”
Prompt : Take a moment to reflect on the various art forms: architecture, film, music, paintings, sculptures, drama, literature, etc. Too often we look for the immediate satisfaction we get from something to determine its value (see your astute observations on the 7th grade poems from the slam). Indeed, there’s a belief that art can do more than simply please us, or “wow” us in any given moment. Some believe that art can change our lives, the way we look at the world. On the other hand, many people say that art only helps us temporarily, in the moment we experience it. What do you think: does art have the ability to change your life? Who’s affected more: the artist or the audience? Can we even tell? Be sure to reference “Sonny’s Blues” in your response.
