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October
13, 2003 Back to Luis Rodriguez As we return to Always Running, I encourage you to read on two levels: technique and theme. On the level of technique, read Rodriguez for the criteria we have discussed in class and read about in SMG: well-told story, vivid descriptions of people and places, and autobiographical significance. In Rodriguez's case, however, you should add the idea of social and cultural significance to that last category. For as Rodriguez has made clear, he wants us to engage with him in a broad discussion of American cultural and social structures and values. As you read keep an eye out for the narrative techniques we have practiced: 1) clock and calendar time, 2 temporal transitions) 3) verb tense markers, 4) specific action narrative, and 5) dialogue. Look also for examples of descriptive techniques: 1) naming, 2) detailing, 3) comparing, and 4) sensory description. Rodriguez employs them all to varying degress of success and with varying purposes and motives. The connection between technique and authorial purpose or motive brings us to the thmes of the text. So far our class discussion has identified Rodriguez's interest in education, immigration, language, racism, gender roles, poverty, class, materialism, crime, and justice. Keep tabs of these issues and search not only for passages that revisit these themes but also sections of the text that explore other questions and topics. Most importantly, as you read analyze the connections between technique and theme. How does Rodriguez use the techniques listed above (and discussed in both SMG and in our class sessions) to explore some of these themes? Find those moments when technique and thematic motivation work together in particularly effective ways? How do certain techniques enhance a reader's engagement with an issue or theme in a text? I mentioned last week that I had found a few useful sites for exploring gang issues in Los Angeles County. I am posting them here and on the course home page. Streetgangs.com: A chilling reminder of the literal and symbolic importance of gang life and culture in America. The site features lots of newspaper stories, articles, statistics, and links to other resources. The Violence Prevention Coalition of Greater Los Angeles has a useful "fact"sheet about gangs in L.A. County. It cites various "myths" about gang life and offers factual counterpoints. The site sometimes echoes Rodriguez's perspective but sometimes also challenges it. Worth a visit. See you in class on Monday. Page last updated: 12 October, 2003 |
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