Responses+to+Reflective+Writing+Questions


 * How is the **collective voice of society** presented in the novel?


 * Discuss the ways in which information about **characters’ backgrounds is** presented.


 * Discuss distinctive features of **Morrison’s writing style**.


 * Discuss the importance of **family love** or the lack thereof.


 * Relate the ways in which characters try to **escape** from their unhappy lives (Cholly, Pecola, Sammy, Mrs. Breedlove, The Maginot Line, Geraldine, Soaphead Church) and comment on whether they are successful or not.


 * How is the collective voice of society destructive to black people and results in **self-loathing**?


 * How does the collective voice of society impact Pecola’s relationship with the black community, her family life, her friendships, her sexuality, and her sanity?


 * Comment on the significance of the **four parts of the novel** corresponding to the four seasons of the year.


 * Discuss examples of **irony** within the story including that Pecola is tormented by black boys and why Cholly covers Pecola after the rape.


 * Cite incidents from the story to support the suggestion that when black people appear to achieve the lifestyle supported by the collective voice of society, they **sacrifice passion and love.**


 * Discuss the incorporation of **folklore** in the story.


 * Analyze the roots of **Pauline’s inability to love Pecola**.


 * Analyze the **elements from Cholly’s life** which make him capable of raping Pecola.


 * Discuss the **significance of names** in the story including The Maginot Line, meringue-pie, and Soaphead Church.


 * Discuss metaphors for **destroyed dreams** within the story including the sofa and Pauline’s tooth.

   [[ima
 * Discuss how **dandelions** serve as a metaphor for Pecola’s place in the black community.