essay

The topics for essay 1 will be based on the themes we have discussed in the first two assigned readings.  Choose ONE of the two choices below and write a well-developed, 3-4 page essay with a focused, clear thesis statement supported with specific details. You do not have reference or cite the essays we read in preparation for this topic ("Shotting an Elephant" or "Beauty...") in your essay.

Shooting an Elephant

Oliver Wendall Holmes said, “Nothing worth knowing can be taught.” George Orwell’s experience as a police officer taught him valuable lessons that he didn’t come to understand until he was removed from the situation.  (Clarity of thought often requires distance of time and/or place). 

Choice 1:  Narrate/describe a “lesson” worth knowing that you learned outside the classroom. 

Beauty When the Other Dancer is the Self

In “Beauty When the Other Dancer is the Self,” the author experiences an epiphany as a result of an unpleasant experience.  After years of struggling with the scarred eye and losing her confidence, Walker realizes how fortunate she is not to have lost her sight and realizes “Beauty” does not mean physical perfection but self-acceptance.  

Choice 2: Narrate/describe an incident that resulted in your seeing yourself differently or in your gaining an appreciation of something that you previously took for granted.

These questions may be interpreted broadly.  I am always willing to help you narrow your topic if help is needed.