When I started reading “The Lesson” it felt a little bit uneasy. I think it was due to the fact that language is used by the author is troubling. It’s rude and disrespectful. Therefore, immediately gave away the fact that these were kids of low-income families. I think of Miss Moore as a lighthouse. Even though Sylvia hated her gut, it seems that deep down she knew that Miss Moore could see something good in each one of them kids and show them what they really capable of. My favorite part is that none of the kids didn’t talk bad about all the people who could afford those toys in the store. Sylvia realizes what Miss Moore try to show them and for the moment in time she tried to fight back, but she (Sylvia) gives in to the fact that she actually understands “The Lesson” that is being taught. I would call my essay “Troubling Awakening,” because it shows the realization children experience is both eye-opening and unsettling. It suggests a deeper, more complex shift in understanding.
Powered by:
top
4 thoughts on “Liutciia Galeeva Laboy Discussion 3”
Hi Liutciia, I truly acknowledge your open analysis of The Lesson and how you understand the author’s language and tone. It’s interesting how you illustrate Miss Moore as a “lighthouse,” providing advice despite Sylvia’s resistance. That metaphor perfectly captures Miss Moore’s job as someone who sees potential in children and helps them see beyond their current environment. I specifically admire how you highlight Sylvia’s internal conflict—her acknowledgment that the lesson Miss Moore conveyed was about more than simply having money but also about awareness and perspective.
Liutciila, thanks for the candid response. The language used by the narrator (not author) is so realistic. It helps give a clue into not only Sylvia’s personality but also the world in which she lives and—at the end—determines to escape. I like the title you have come up with, and also like your observations about the conflict between Sylvia and Miss Moore. Of course, Sylvia resents Miss Moore for showing her ugly truths, but she does come to understand what the “lighthouse” is trying to show her. She will not let Miss Moore know this though, which is also part of Sylvia’s touch, defended character.
Hi Liutciia! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I want to implore further into your concept that because Sylvia is “rude” and “disrespectful” that she “immediately gave away” that she is from a low-income family. I would argue that there are people who are rude and disrespectful from a wide array of socioeconomic backgrounds. Therefore, I don’t think that those traits point to any particular tax bracket. With that said, I do think that the name “Troubling Awakening” is a very valid and all encompassing title!
I really love how you broke down The Lesson and connected the language to the kids’ backgrounds it really does set the tone right away. Your comparison of Miss Moore to a lighthouse is such a great way to describe her. Even though Sylvia pushes back, deep down, she knows Miss Moore is trying to open their eyes. I also liked your point about the kids not resenting the rich but instead realizing something bigger. Troubling Awakening is a perfect title really thoughtful work