Analysis of Persuasive Writing and Humor in Native American Literature

Analysis of 'Growing Up Native' by Carol Geddes

Part1: Persuasive Writing Analysis Read “Growing Up Native” by Carol Geddes and answer the following questions. 1. The tone of this story creates the effect of being told a story in person. Cite passages where “Growing Up Native” comes across as oral history, as a tale told in person. Why would Geddes have taken this approach? (Answer should be in paragraph form with well-integrated quotes as support.) 2. In paragraph 2, Geddes tells of the “sting of humiliation and the boot of discrimination.” What figure of speech is this? Find other good examples of figurative language in paragraphs 9, 12, and 15. Also, find an example of synecdoche in paragraph 1; asyndeton in paragraph 6; and anaphora in paragraph 8. 3. “I remember it was cold…” says Geddes in her opening sentence and “Someday, when I’m an elder…” she says in her closing sentence. Most narratives relate only one incident, but “Growing Up Native tells the highs and lows of a whole life. Why might Geddes have made the choice to cover so much time? Has she got her message across by focusing on the right moments of her life? (Answer should be in paragraph form with well-integrated quotes as support.) 4. Does Geddes narrate in chronological order? Point out any flashbacks or departures from the pattern. 5. In paragraph 10, Geddes remarks that her teacher was “ignorant of cultural complexities.” What does she mean by this and cite some examples. (Answer should be in paragraph form with well-integrated quotes as support.) - Part 2: Humour and Satire Read “Tom King’s Traditional Aboriginal Decorating Tips” and answer the questions below. Each answer should be at least contain well-integrated quotes to support your analyses. 1. What is King spoofing in this piece? How effective is this spoof? 2. What serious issue is this selection satirizing? 3. This play is intended to be humorous. Discuss the techniques King uses to create humour here. 4. Research Thomas King’s background and writing career. Discuss what motivates him to create comedy sketches such as the one above. How does the content of “Tom King’s Aboriginal Decorating Tips” reflect his background? ***This answer should be at least two paragraphs long.