Figure of Speech

1) A metaphor is a figure of speech in which one subject is likened to another for literary effect (e.g., the bank manager is a clever fox). A simile also makes a comparison for literary effect, in this case using “like” or “as” (e.g., the coffee cake was hard as a rock). An analogy is an extended comparison, usually designed to highlight the characteristics that two seemingly different objects/ideas share (e.g., the process of getting through college is much like running a marathon).

Each poem listed below includes at least one comparative figure of speech meant to illustrate some element of the immigrant experience. Most of these were assigned previously, but some are new. You may select any poem on which to write. First, identify the simile, metaphor, or analogy that you see in the poem. Second, explain what it means in the context of the poem. What message about the immigrant experience does the comparison communicate and how effective is that message
I choose the poem “Discovery of the New World” by Carter Revard

2) The perspective or point of view from which a story is narrated is an essential component in shaping its message. In fact, the narrative point of view determines how the reader experiences and interprets the story. The three points of view are:
first person (“I was thirty years old before I left California”)
second person (“You notified the landlord that you would be giving up your apartment”)
third person (“The youngest brother knew that he would never inherit the family farm.”)
Select one of the texts below and explain how the story’s point of view shapes the narrative. You will want to first identify a major theme of the text. Then discuss how the point of view works to elucidate that theme.

Choose from: The Reluctant Fundamentalist (first person). Your answer should be between 200 and 250 words and include at least one example of point of view in the story.

3) Choose one element to compare between the novel The Reluctant Fundamentalist and the film version. Explain how the film differs from the novel and then analyze whether the change is effective or ineffective. Some possible options:

the identity of the American dining with Changez
the details of Erica’s relationship with Changez
the end of the story/film
Your answer should be between 200 and 250 words and include specific details from the film and direct quotes from the novel.

4) Describe how the film interprets, supports, or contradicts the traditional notion of the “American Dream.”
Your answer should be between 200 and 250 words and include specific details from the film.