Question

Ut when I turned my head, I saw that I was the only one seated, and all the rest at our table remained standing. Just as I began to rise, looking shyly around to see how chairs were to be used, a second bell was

ounded. All were seated at last, and I had to crawl back into my chair again...
Every one picked up his knife and fork and began eating. I began crying instead, for by this time I was afraid to venture anything more.
But this eating by formula was not the hardest trial in that first day. Late in the morning, my friend Judéwin gave me a terrible warning. Judéwin knew a few words of English; and she had overheard the paleface
woman talk about cutting our long, heavy hair. Our mothers had taught us that only unskilled warriors who were captured had their hair shingled by the enemy. Among our people, short hair was worn by mourners,
and shingled hair by cowards!
We discussed our fate some moments, and when Judéwin said, "We have to submit, because they are strong," I rebelled.
"No, I will not submit! I will struggle first!" I answered.
Analysis: How do the story's sequence and pacing contribute to the story's conflict and theme?

Answer 1

The sequence and pacing in the story contribute significantly to the story's conflict and theme. Let's analyze how:

1. **Sequence of Events**: The sequence of events, as described by the narrator, creates a sense of disorientation and unfamiliarity. The narrator, a Native American child, finds herself in an unfamiliar environment with new rules and customs, which leads to a feeling of confusion and isolation. This sequence of events highlights the clash between cultures and the challenges faced by the narrator as she tries to adapt to a completely different way of life.

2. **Pacing**: The pacing of the story mirrors the narrator's emotional journey. It starts with a sense of innocence and curiosity as she observes the new environment. However, as the story progresses, the pacing becomes more frantic and emotionally charged. The narrator's distress is palpable as she realizes that she must conform to the rules of the dominant culture, even if they conflict with her own traditions.

3. **Conflict**: The conflict in the story is primarily internal, as the narrator grapples with the conflict between her indigenous heritage and the demands of assimilation into a Euro-American culture. The pacing, with its gradual increase in tension, highlights this internal conflict. The narrator's initial confusion and attempts to conform eventually give way to resistance and rebellion, as she refuses to submit to the cutting of her long hair, which symbolizes a core aspect of her identity.

4. **Theme of Cultural Clash**: The sequence of events and pacing serve to underscore the theme of cultural clash. The story illustrates the clash