Discussion Board: What Does It Mean To Grow Up?
Discussion Board What Does It Mean To Grow Uppromptin This Discussi
Discuss the elements of short stories, how literary devices like setting, symbolism, and characterization help us understand their meaning, and analyze how works such as "A&P", "Boys and Girls", and "The Lesson" illustrate ideas about growing up. Additionally, select a popular movie or TV show that addresses coming of age and discuss its perspective on what it means to grow up. Reflect on any surprising or unexpected insights gained from the module’s readings and lessons.
Write in an academic tone and style, supporting your statements with specific examples and explanations. Use clear and complete sentences, and where appropriate, include your personal viewpoint. Avoid using second person ("you") in your writing. After composing your post, review and revise it carefully before submitting. Engage with classmates' responses as well, fostering a cohesive discussion.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
The theme of growing up is a complex and multifaceted process explored extensively through literature, film, and personal reflection. Short stories and visual narratives serve as powerful mediums to depict the nuances of entering adulthood, emphasizing elements such as setting, symbolism, and characterization to deepen our understanding of this transitional phase.
Short stories utilize specific literary techniques to communicate profound insights about growing up. For example, in "A&P" by John Updike, the setting of a small grocery store during the 1960s encapsulates the everyday life context of the protagonist Sammy, highlighting themes of rebellion and conformity. Through his characterization as a youthful, impulsive individual, Sammy's internal conflict about societal expectations and personal integrity illuminates the maturation process (Updike, 1961). Symbolism also plays a vital role; the prominent image of the bathing suits signifies youthful innocence and sexual awakening, which are pivotal aspects of adolescence.
Similarly, "Boys and Girls" by Alice Munro explores gender roles and societal expectations. The setting in rural Canada and the symbolic use of animals (the fox and the horse) reflect the protagonist's internal struggle between traditional gender roles and her desire for independence (Munro, 1968). The story’s characterization of the girl as burgeoning with aspirations yet constrained by societal norms portrays the emotional complexity of growing up.
"The Lesson" by Toni Cade Bambara vividly illustrates social awareness and economic disparities faced during adolescence. Set in a disadvantaged urban neighborhood, the story highlights the educational and moral awakening of a young girl through her interactions with Miss Moore, who educates her about socioeconomic inequalities. The story emphasizes that maturity involves understanding and navigating social injustices (Bambara, 1972).
Turning to visual media, the film "Boyhood" directed by Richard Linklater encapsulates the ongoing journey of growing up over a 12-year shooting period. The film traces the protagonist Mason’s development from childhood to early adulthood, capturing the subtle shifts in relationships, responsibilities, and personal values. It answers the question “What does it mean to grow up?” by portraying that maturity is an incremental process characterized by change, resilience, and self-awareness (Linklater, 2014).
No aspect of the module's readings was as surprising as the revelation that growing up is not a uniform experience but deeply influenced by societal, cultural, and personal factors. For instance, the stories underscore that adolescence involves both internal emotional development and external societal pressures, challenging simplistic notions that growing up is solely about age or physical maturity.
In conclusion, the selected works reveal that growing up encompasses a spectrum of experiences, emotions, and realizations. Literary devices like setting, symbolism, and characterization serve as essential tools to unlock these themes, enabling readers to relate, reflect, and better understand the complex process of maturation. These insights highlight that growing up is not a singular event but a continuous evolution shaped by individual and societal influences.
References
- Bambara, T. C. (1972). The Lesson. In G. R. Cohen (Ed.), Stories for the Heart: A Collection of Contemporary Short Stories. Harcourt Brace.
- Linklater, R. (Director). (2014). Boyhood [Film]. IFC Films.
- Munro, A. (1968). Boys and Girls. In Dance of the Happy Shades. McClelland & Stewart.
- Updike, J. (1961). A&P. The New Yorker.