Question

You are to write a three-paragraph literary essay based on one of the 3 stories that you have read and analyzed in this unit.

Analyze how a theme of the story is developed. Discuss how the actions and interactions of characters and events develop the theme. Make sure to use textual evidence as support.

Choose one of these themes and analyze the development of the theme:

"President Cleveland, Where Are You?" Theme: A sign of maturity is the realization that it is important to put loved ones before oneself.
"White Umbrella" Theme: Sometimes one must face loss before one can appreciate what one has.
"Raymond's Run" Theme: Friendship can be found in unexpected places.
You are to write a three-paragraph essay based on what you have learned this unit. Your final submission should meet the following requirements:

Write an essay that contains an introduction with hook and thesis statement, supporting paragraphs with evidence and at least one quotation per paragraph, and a conclusion that restates the thesis and reviews the main points.
Use transitions appropriate to the pattern of organization.
Use vocabulary to create tone and voice.
Text evidence
Vary sentence structure

Answer 1

In "President Cleveland, Where Are You?" by Robert Cormier, the theme that a sign of maturity is the realization that it is important to put loved ones before oneself is developed through the actions and interactions of the main character, Charles. Throughout the story, Charles is preoccupied with finding his missing brother, Jerry, and bringing him home. He spends countless hours searching for him and sacrificing his own needs to make sure Jerry is safe. This is evident when Charles skips school and goes without food or sleep to continue his search. The narrator notes that "he was getting used to the emptiness in his stomach, the fatigue in his legs, the aching in his back" (Cormier 15).

Charles' dedication to finding his brother illustrates the theme because it shows that he is willing to put someone else's needs before his own. This is a sign of maturity because it demonstrates empathy and selflessness, which are important traits to have as one grows older. Charles' actions also show that he values his family above all else, which is a common characteristic of mature individuals.

Overall, "President Cleveland, Where Are You?" uses the character of Charles to develop the theme that a sign of maturity is the realization that it is important to put loved ones before oneself. Through his actions and interactions with other characters, we see that Charles is willing to make sacrifices and put his own needs aside to help his family. This message is an important one for readers of all ages, as it encourages empathy and selflessness, traits that are essential for building strong relationships and leading a fulfilling life.

In conclusion, Robert Cormier's "President Cleveland, Where Are You?" effectively develops the theme that a sign of maturity is the realization that it is important to put loved ones before oneself. By using the character of Charles to illustrate this theme, the story teaches readers the importance of empathy and selflessness, and encourages them to value their relationships with loved ones above all else. Through its engaging plot and relatable characters, "President Cleveland, Where Are You?" offers a valuable lesson about what it means to grow up and become a mature, responsible adult.