Ursula K. Le Guin’s short story “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” raises complex moral questions by contrasting the happy city of Omelas with the suffering of one child. This contrast serves to explore the nature of social happiness and morality. Omelas is presented as a utopian city where joy and well-being reign. The inhabitants enjoy life, full of happiness and harmony. However, behind this idyll lies a terrible truth: the happiness of the city depends on the suffering of one child, who lives in terrible conditions. Le Guin makes us consider whether it is moral to sacrifice one for the happiness of many. All the inhabitants are aware…

In “Recitatif” Toni Morrison masterfully examines the fluidity of identity and the influence of societal perceptions on personal relationships through the deliberate use of ambiguity and the absence of explicit racial identifiers. By not specifying the races of the main characters, Twyla and Roberta, Morrison compels readers to confront their own biases and assumptions about race. A central aspect of the story is how Morrison portrays the interactions between Twyla and Roberta to highlight racial tensions without ever revealing their racial backgrounds. This ambiguity forces readers to rely on their own preconceptions to interpret the characters’ actions and dialogues, prompting reflection on how stereotypes and biases shape our understanding of…

In James Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues” jazz serves as a powerful motif that intricately weaves through themes of complex human relationships, hope, and the pursuit of overcoming life’s struggles. Jazz is not merely a musical genre in the story; it becomes a vessel for emotional expression and a conduit for spiritual healing. Firstly, jazz is deeply entwined with Sonny’s personal battle against addiction and his quest for solace. Music, particularly jazz, provides Sonny with a medium to channel his pain and suffering. It is through jazz that Sonny expresses the turmoil within him, allowing him to confront his struggles head-on. This creative outlet becomes essential for Sonny, as it offers him…

In Act III of “The Tempest,” the ideas of being a servant and wanting freedom are shown through Ariel and Caliban. Ariel, a spirit who works for Prospero, does his tasks well because he hopes to be free someday. He listens and acts quickly because he knows freedom might come if he keeps doing what he’s told. Ariel’s story shows that even tough situations can be handled if there’s hope for freedom later. Caliban’s story is different. He was forced to serve Prospero after first being friendly to him. Unlike Ariel, Caliban is angry and upset about losing his freedom. He believes the island should be his and sees Prospero’s…

In Walt Whitman’s poem “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry,” the focus is on the significance of everyday experiences, especially the daily commute. For many, this might seem like a boring routine, but Whitman finds a deeper connection in it. He illustrates how the speaker feels a powerful bond with other strangers who are also on their way somewhere. This idea brings together everyone who shares those commuting moments, making his points very relatable. For me personally, when I get on a crowded subway or bus, I feel that connection with the other passengers. Each of us has our own stories and experiences, but we all share the same space, going through a…