Answer:The structures used in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "Gumption" contribute to their meaning in different ways.
In "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," the structure of the story helps to convey the main character's daydreaming and escape from reality. The story is structured around a series of daydreams and fantasies that Walter Mitty has throughout the day. Each daydream is depicted as a separate scene, almost like a mini-story within the larger story. This structure highlights Walter Mitty's vivid imagination and his longing for a more exciting life. By juxtaposing these daydreams with the mundane reality of his everyday life, the structure emphasizes the stark contrast between fantasy and reality, and ultimately underscores the theme of escapism.
On the other hand, in "Gumption," the structure of the essay is based on a series of interviews with influential figures. Each section focuses on a different person and their unique story. This structure allows the author, Nick Offerman, to explore different aspects of gumption (determination and courage) through the lens of various individuals. By presenting these interviews one after another, the structure highlights the diverse ways in which gumption can manifest itself in people's lives. It also gives the essay a sense of progression, as each interview builds upon the previous one to create a broader understanding of the concept. This structure helps to convey the theme of gumption as a universal quality that can be found in people from all walks of life.
In conclusion, the structure of "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" emphasizes the contrast between fantasy and reality, while the structure of "Gumption" allows for a exploration of the concept through multiple perspectives. Both structures contribute to the meaning of the texts by enhancing the themes and messages conveyed by the authors.
Explanation: Read the articles, that simple