1. How does this story reflect or resemble ideas we have seen in prior narratives, including Columbus' journals, John Smith's account, and the Panama Canal documentary? Think about how the native Mexicans are viewed by the Anglo newcomers, like Clay and Van Antwerp and how Anglos like Clay intervene in South American affairs for their own benefit.
2. How does the news that Miss Langham will be coming to Mexico affect the way Clay now views the land which he is in command of?
3. Does the fact that this story is written in third person enhance its effectiveness as a literary piece by enabling us to read different viewpoints or does it inhibit our ability to fully connect with any of the characters on whom the narration tended to focus?
Diego Rivera, Pan-American Unity
Diego Rivera, Pan-American Unity
2) Clay becomes more "aware" of the lands he is in charge of. Whereas before he viewed them purely from a practical, business perspective, the prospect of Miss Langham's arrival opens his eyes to the beauty and wonders around him. Instead of focusing solely on the land's enterprises and earning potential, Clay now dreams of the sights he will show her, of the land's lush colors and magnificent vistas. Interestingly, he sees the place from "her" viewpoint, the things she will see upon her arrival: "it was as though he had lengthened the focus of a glass, and looked beyond at what was beautiful and picturesque, instead of what was near at hand and practicable" (38). In short, he begins to view the lands from an almost romantic perspective, as punctuated by his construction of the lavish, palace-like bungalow.
ReplyDeleteThe fact that the story is written in third person does enhance its effectiveness as a literary piece. The third person narrative account allows the reader to get inside a character's mind. it gives insight to the character's emotions and thoughts. take for instance, Miss Langham; "the look on Miss Langham's face, which had been one of amusement, changed consciously, and she smiled with polite acquiescence." the reader now has a picture of exactly what Miss Langham's face look like. in fact because the story in written from a third person's perspective it also allows the reader to connect and relate with the characters.
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