Homework for Mr. Lydon’s English Class - Due 9.04

This assignment is similar to the Activity on page 24 of the Springboard text:

Describe the voice of the narrator. Then, explain how the writer’s diction and imagery create this voice. You might also mention other literary elements, such as justaposition, that contribute to the narrator’s voice or point of view. Be sure to do the following:

• Begin with a clear thesis for your position
• Include multiple direct quotations to support your claim, and punctuate them correctly
• Include transitions and a concluding statement.

The assignment I’m asking you to do is similar. Using James Thurber’s “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” as your text, you will write a multi-paragraphed response that describes the voice of your character and supports your analysis with evidence of diction and imagery. You might also consider other literary elements relating to syntax (such as juxtaposition, figurative language, or parallel structure) and tone. You should follow the same guidelines as the bullet points above: include a clear thesis, use direct quotations, and organize your short essay with transitions and a conclusion.

Suggestions:

• Proper MLA formatted heading (top left corner)
• Use the word “voice” in the introduction to your response, possibly in your thesis.
• Use the academic vocabulary discussed in class: diction, imagery, syntax, tone, juxtaposition, etc
• Fully explain your quotation and be sure it is clear why it is useful to supporting your thesis
• Include a conclusion that reinforces your thesis.