"Us & Them" Character & Motivation
Why does Sedaris feel disappointed when the Tomkeys leave for their boathouse?
He enjoyed observing them, and watching the Tomkeys had become a form of entertainment for him.
Why is it ironic that Sedaris’s parents claim they do not “believe in television”?
They say they do not believe in it, yet they regularly watch the news and whatever follows.
What moral dilemma does David face when interacting with the Tomkey children?
Whether to empathize and share or judge and protect his own sense of superiority.
Why does the poet compare snow to cherry blossoms?
To emphasize the fleeting and delicate nature of snow.
How is change treated differently in both texts?
Sedaris’s family resists change, while the poem embraces it as inevitable.
What motivates David to hide and eat his Halloween candy instead of sharing it?
He wants control over his possessions and does not want to share what he believes is rightfully his.
How does Sedaris use sarcasm when describing the Tomkeys’ Halloween visit?
He implies their late trick-or-treating is socially awkward and inappropriate.
How does David’s sense of superiority affect his empathy?
It prevents him from fully connecting with or understanding the Tomkeys.
What does the line “The snow of yesterday / Is water once again” suggest?
Change is inevitable and part of a natural cycle.
Which comparative device is used in The Snow of Yesterday?
The melting snow serves as a metaphor for life’s changes.
How does David’s behavior toward the Tomkeys reflect a moral dilemma?
He feels pity but judges them, choosing distance and superiority over empathy.
What tone is created through Sedaris’s humorous descriptions of his family’s reactions?
A humorous, subtly mocking tone that reveals feelings of superiority.
Which theme best explains David’s refusal to self-reflect?
Judgment versus empathy.
What is the significance of transformation in the poem?
It reflects impermanence and the ongoing process of change.
How does Us and Them use symbolism to show resistance to change?
Through the Tomkey family and their nonconformity.
How does David’s attitude toward the Tomkeys change over time?
He shifts from curiosity and pity to discomfort and judgment.
400 – Why does David’s mother encourage the family to keep their distance from the Tomkeys?
She believes forming close relationships would be painful when the family moves again.
How does the Tomkey family function symbolically in the essay?
They symbolize resistance to mainstream social norms.
What literary device is primarily used to communicate this idea?
Metaphor.
What shared message connects both readings?
The importance of self-reflection and acceptance of change.
Which character trait best describes David as the essay progresses?
Superiority mixed with a lack of self-reflection.
How does humor help Sedaris critique his family’s worldview?
It allows him to expose narrow-mindedness and hypocrisy without being overly harsh.
What lesson does Sedaris subtly communicate through reflection?
That rigid adherence to social norms can limit empathy and growth.
How does the poem’s calm tone support its message?
It encourages acceptance of change rather than resistance.
How could the poem’s message challenge David’s worldview?
It could encourage him to accept impermanence and reflect on his judgments.