Plot Points
Daniel first reclaims this song by playing it in a bar.
Dixie
He is the protagonist of the story.
Daniel Barkley
This is the author of The Appropriation of Cultures.
Percival Everett
The reaction Daniel receives from most white townspeople when he drives with the Confederate flag
confusion or discomfort
This controversial symbol is displayed on Daniel’s car.
The Confederate flag
This friend suggest he play "Dixie" at the bar.
white colllege boys
Everett often writes about this topic, which is central to the story.
Race or racial identity
After Daniel flies the flag, other Black people in the community begin doing this.
adopting the flag themselves or flying it too
Daniel begins flying the flag after this couple asks him to buy their truck.
barb and travis
Daniel’s love interest, whom he moves in with.
Sarah
Everett’s style often incorporates this tone to critique society.
Satire or irony
The story implies this about the power of symbols when they are redefined by unexpected groups.
they lose their original meaning or power
Daniel’s response to racism is described using this kind of tone or attitude.
Irony or subversion
These two white characters unknowingly assist in Daniel’s reclamation of the Confederate flag.
The Edges
This is the genre of the story.
Literary fiction or short story
Barb and Travis sell Daniel the truck for this reason.
guilt or shame over the flag decal on it
Daniel tells this kind of story to confuse and reclaim the past.
A fabricated or mythic backstory
Daniel’s background is notable for including this educational achievement.
A Harvard degree
Everett uses this technique to let readers rethink assumptions without overt moralizing.
Subtle irony or indirect critique
The story suggests that resistance can look like this, rather than loud or aggressive protest.
quiet subversion or symbolic action