Watch the video or read Alice Walker’s story “Everyday Use” carefully and think about the reason that Dee’s mother turns down her request in such a dramatic manner: ENGL
1010 Everyday Use ADA docx
As you read the story, you will realize that the way that family members communicate with one another may differ significantly from the way that people should communicate in
professional and business letter writing. In both situations, we may carry a certain amount of “emotional baggage” when we have to tell someone something that he or she may
not want to hear. However, in business writing, we must always maintain a professional, objective, polite tone to ensure long-lasting business relationships. Using clear, varied
sentence patterns and punctuating clauses correctly will aid in presenting this professional image through business correspondence.
Then write a brief paragraph reacting to the characters in the story and applying the events to similar situations in your own family or that of someone you know. Your paragraph
should be approximately five sentences long. Focus on punctuation and clauses in your paragraph. Furthermore, you may consider the manner that relatives like Dee’s
mother say “no” in contrast to the way that professionals say “no” in a business setting.
-Post your “Everyday Use” paragraph to this discussion board by clicking on the Create Thread button.
-Respond to two classmates’ posts.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
In Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use,” the interaction between Dee and her mother, Mama, reveals profound themes about identity, heritage, and the complexities of family communication. When Dee requests the handmade quilts that Mama has promised to Maggie, Mama’s refusal is not merely a denial of a request; it is a decisive act reflecting her values and understanding of their heritage. Dee, who has changed her name and embraced a superficial understanding of her cultural identity, represents a modern perspective that conflicts with the traditional values held by Mama and Maggie. Mama’s dramatic rejection signifies a deeper conflict over authenticity and connection to their roots, contrasting sharply with the calm, diplomatic refusals often employed in professional settings. In business, saying “no” requires a careful balance of maintaining relationships while asserting boundaries; for example, one might say, “I appreciate your interest, but we must prioritize our current commitments.” This contrasts with Mama’s emotionally charged refusal, which stems from years of love, sacrifice, and a deep understanding of the true value of their heritage. In my own family, similar tensions arise, particularly around issues of inheritance and tradition, where emotional histories complicate straightforward decisions. Just as Mama stands firm against Dee’s demand, I’ve witnessed family members uphold long-held beliefs about legacy and belonging, often leading to passionate discussions that echo the themes of Walker’s story.
Explanation
In this response, I focus on several key elements. First, I acknowledge the central conflict in “Everyday Use,” highlighting how Mama’s refusal relates to her understanding of heritage and familial ties. This connection draws on the text’s emotional depth, emphasizing the significance of cultural identity.
Next, I contrast the emotional tone of Mama’s refusal with the more reserved, professional manner typically used in business settings. I provide a concrete example of how a professional might decline a request, illustrating the difference in tone and approach. This is crucial for understanding how family dynamics differ from professional communication, where emotional stakes may be lower and interactions more transactional.
Additionally, I draw a personal connection by referencing similar family situations. This not only makes the analysis relatable but also demonstrates how the themes of “Everyday Use” resonate beyond the text and into real-life scenarios. Overall, the paragraph maintains a clear structure, with varied sentence patterns and appropriate punctuation, ensuring it meets academic writing standards while conveying a thoughtful reflection on the characters and themes in Walker’s story.