Professor’s Critique
Emily, your paper on defining literary moments in “Ground Swell” and “Class” demonstrates a commendable depth of analysis and a strong grasp of literary concepts. Your comparison of these two works effectively highlights the different approaches authors can take in crafting pivotal moments in literature. I particularly appreciate your insightful analysis of the surfing encounter in “Ground Swell” and how you’ve connected it to the broader theme of self-discovery. Your discussion of the ambiguity in “Class” shows a nuanced understanding of how defining moments can be portrayed (or obscured) in literature. However, I would have liked to see more engagement with existing literary theory on character development and pivotal moments in narratives. Additionally, while your analysis is strong, your paper could benefit from more specific textual evidence to support your claims, especially in your discussion of “Class.” Your conclusion raises intriguing questions about the nature of defining moments in literature, which shows critical thinking beyond mere analysis. In future papers, consider exploring how cultural or historical contexts might influence the portrayal of defining moments in different works. Overall, this is a well-crafted, thought-provoking paper that shows your ability to engage deeply with literary texts and draw meaningful comparisons.
Grade: A- (93/100)
Defining Literary Moments: An Analysis of Ground Swell and Class
by
Emily Howard
Bridgewater College
Abstract
This paper explores the concept of defining literary moments in two contrasting works: Mark Jarman’s poem “Ground Swell” (1997) and Sherman Alexie’s short story “Class” (2000). By examining how these moments are presented and their impact on character development, we gain insight into the authors’ techniques for crafting pivotal scenes in literature.
1. Introduction
Defining moments in literature serve as pivotal points that shape characters and drive narratives. These moments often reveal profound truths, alter perspectives, or catalyze significant change. Like the turn of a kaleidoscope, they shift the entire pattern of a story, revealing new facets of characters and their worlds. This paper analyzes how defining moments are portrayed in Jarman’s “Ground Swell” and Alexie’s “Class,” exploring their effectiveness and impact on the overall narrative. By comparing these two works, we can better understand the artistry involved in crafting moments that resonate deeply with readers and fundamentally alter the trajectory of a story.
2. Defining Literary Moments in “Ground Swell”
In “Ground Swell,” Jarman masterfully constructs a defining moment that becomes the epicenter of the poem’s emotional and thematic resonance. The pivotal scene occurs when the fifteen-year-old protagonist, out surfing in the early morning, is noticed and acknowledged by an older, recently graduated student. This brief interaction, lasting mere seconds, serves as a catalyst for the protagonist’s profound self-reflection and reevaluation of his worth in the world.
The power of this moment lies in its simplicity and unexpected nature. The older boy, described as having “grown a great blonde mustache” (p.808, line 31), skims past the protagonist and casually says his name. This simple act of recognition becomes a seismic event in the younger boy’s life. Jarman captures the impact with lyrical precision: “I was so much younger, / to be identified by one like him […] made me / reconsider my worth. I had been noticed.” (p.808, lines 34-37). The use of “reconsider” is particularly poignant, suggesting that the protagonist had previously assigned himself little value, only to have this perception shattered by a moment of unexpected acknowledgment.
The defining nature of this moment is further emphasized by its lasting impact. The poem’s narrator, looking back on this event, refers to it as “my ground swell” (p.809, line 52), a metaphor that beautifully encapsulates the profound and enduring effect of this seemingly small interaction. Like a ground swell in the ocean, the impact of this moment may not be immediately apparent on the surface, but its force shapes the very foundation of the protagonist’s sense of self and his place in the world.
3. Searching for Defining Literary Moments in “Class”
In contrast to the clear and impactful defining moment in “Ground Swell,” Sherman Alexie’s “Class” presents a more ambiguous landscape when it comes to pivotal character moments. The story offers two events that could potentially serve as defining moments for the protagonist, Edgar Eagle Runner: the discovery of his wife’s affair and his decision to fight a man named Junior. However, Alexie’s narrative style and character development complicate the interpretation of these events as truly defining moments.
The revelation of Edgar’s wife’s infidelity is presented with a startling lack of emotion: “Susan kept her Friday lunches free so she could carry on an / affair with an architect named Harry” (p.588, line 80.1-2). This matter-of-fact delivery, devoid of Edgar’s internal reaction, creates a sense of emotional distance that potentially undermines the event’s significance as a defining moment. The reader is left to wonder about the true impact of this discovery on Edgar’s psyche and subsequent actions.
Similarly, Edgar’s decision to fight Junior, which could be seen as a moment of assertiveness or a breaking point, is presented without the depth of insight that would elevate it to a truly defining moment. The narrative provides little context for Edgar’s motivation or the fight’s significance in his personal journey. This lack of character insight limits our understanding of how these events shape Edgar’s character or alter his life’s trajectory.
The story’s conclusion, “I was gone. But now I’m back.” (p.596, line 310.2), hints at a potential transformation but fails to clearly connect this change to the preceding events. This ambiguity leaves the reader questioning whether any truly defining moments occurred within the narrative or if Edgar’s experiences merely skimmed the surface of potential change without catalyzing genuine transformation.
4. Comparative Analysis of Defining Moments
The contrasting approaches to defining literary moments in “Ground Swell” and “Class” offer valuable insights into the craft of creating pivotal scenes in literature. Jarman’s poem employs vivid imagery and introspective language to highlight the significance of its defining moment. The surfing encounter is framed as a life-altering event, with its impact reverberating through the narrator’s memories and shaping his understanding of self. This technique creates a clear before-and-after division in the protagonist’s life, allowing readers to grasp the moment’s transformative power.
In contrast, Alexie’s “Class” employs a stripped-down, emotionally distant prose that potentially diminishes the impact of key events. The detached narrative style, while perhaps reflecting Edgar’s own emotional state, creates a barrier between the reader and the character’s inner world. This approach makes it challenging to identify truly defining moments within the story, as the weight and significance of events are left largely to the reader’s interpretation.
The effectiveness of these different approaches can be seen in their impact on character development. In “Ground Swell,” the defining moment clearly influences the protagonist’s self-perception and implied future path. The narrator’s reflection on this moment years later underscores its enduring significance. “Class,” however, presents potential defining moments without demonstrably altering Edgar’s character or trajectory within the scope of the story. The lack of clear character growth or change in perspective leaves the reader questioning the true impact of the narrated events.
5. Conclusion
The analysis of “Ground Swell” and “Class” reveals contrasting approaches to defining literary moments, highlighting the delicate art of crafting pivotal scenes that resonate with readers and drive character development. Jarman’s poem demonstrates the power of a well-constructed defining moment, using vivid imagery and emotional resonance to create a clear turning point in the protagonist’s life. Alexie’s story, on the other hand, challenges readers to question the nature of defining moments, presenting potential pivotal events without fully realizing their transformative power.
This comparison underscores the importance of narrative technique, character insight, and emotional engagement in creating truly defining literary moments. It also raises intriguing questions about the nature of change and self-discovery in literature. Must defining moments always be clearly delineated, or can they exist in the subtle shifts and ambiguities of a character’s journey? As writers and readers, understanding the craft behind these pivotal scenes enriches our appreciation of literature and its power to illuminate the human experience.