Comments by Isaiah Singleton

This is the point in where she made up her mind.

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:53:47 -0400

She decided not to replenish the fire because she was tunnel-visioned into the act of Filicide.

Masterfully unsettling.

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:48:09 -0400

The author here compares and contrasts the act of killing animals to the act of a black man being killed. The author elaborates the brutality of the black man being killed by emphasizing that it wasn't a merciful execution like you would do with an animal. They literally wanted this poor black man to suffer when he was lynched.

A disturbing insight into the stakes behind lynching.

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:42:05 -0400

This is truly barbaric to some extent, you have white people infighting during lynching's, and even more violence being birthed out of what could have been a common event among white people at that time.

What do crates have to do with the act of lynching someone?

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:38:14 -0400

It is unclear what purpose the crates had in this context. Depending on the author's intent, the crates may have been part of a makeshift platform to stand on, part of a mob's equipment for holding the victim tied and ready to be suspended, or they may have been a symbol of the callousness of the group's attitude towards the victims of lynching.

What does this line say about the role of women in the early 20th century?

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:37:00 -0400

It makes a clear statement about how women, particularly in the early 20th century, are expected to put their own needs last. The fact that this woman has not eaten all day implies that she prioritized other responsibilities over her own physical needs, and this reinforces a gender stereotype of the time that women are naturally and unavoidably self-sacrificing. We can assume that, if it was a male character in this text, he might have taken the time to eat. It is objectifying to expect any person to put their own needs aside without offering understanding or consideration to their need to take care of themselves. We can question what messages this line is sending to the reader about the importance of women in society.

Interesting Comment to describe the craft and expertise of Lizzie.

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:34:04 -0400

"Lizzzie keeping the woodstove going smartly" is a keen viewpoint into the historical context behind the job of many white women during the early 20th century. She knew how to operate a woodstove accordingly.

Ebone's Comment

Wed, 24 May 2023 09:44:22 -0400

I agree with the sentiment that it focuses on some factor of black Americans, but not necessarily a black family.

Mob Mentality acting on Jim's behalf.

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:56:37 -0400

Jim instantly took to blaming the local black Americans for this murder suicide, solely because he's part of the mob mentality that black Americans are responsible for the strife's and crimes of the town, either this, or he's looking towards killing them just to exact revenge to quell the grief of this event.

The devil inside.

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:50:33 -0400

Lizzie snapped when she saw a black women call out for her help. This ate her away to a point where she saw the devil within her daughter Bessie, and she took it upon herself to kill that future devil inside. That future devil would've married to a boy who would hunt black people for sport in mobs.

Christ...

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:46:58 -0400

Lizzie is thinking in the future of what her little girl will become. She will be married to a man who will hunt black people down for the color of their skin.

What is the Crisis magazine?

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:25:40 -0400

The Crisis magazine was a monthly magazine published by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). It was founded in 1910 by W. E. B. Du Bois to serve as the "voice of the Negro". The magazine documented the African American experience and sought to raise awareness on issues such as racism, segregation, and civil rights. It also served as a forum for political and social protest.

Dehumanization of Black People

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:19:56 -0400

The "It" pronoun is abundantly clear in this short story.

Lizzie as described in the short story.

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:16:35 -0400

From the text, Lizzie looked like a white women who was responsible for keeping the house uptight while the men ran their businesses through for the betterment of the house and the children.

Group of Black People being hanged.

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:14:04 -0400

Talking about a mob mentality such as the demeaning use of the n-word.

This must have been devastating to her.

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:11:09 -0400

Lizzie knows that if she even bats an eye of kindness or help, she might've been beaten or even killed for her kind gesture.

Priorities

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:07:59 -0400

Lizzie's desire is to take care and be there for her child, instead of being involved in a mob event. This could also bring up the possibility of how she would go to mob event if her kids were threatened.

What else can you tell me about Marion Vera Cuthbert's life and accomplishments?

Mon, 22 May 2023 13:29:23 -0400

Marion Vera Cuthbert was an American poet, college dean and Columbia University Ph.D. She attended Carleton College in Minnesota, where she became active in literary clubs. In 1918 she became the first African American woman to receive a college degree from Carleton College and graduated Phi Beta Kappa. In 1920 she received her Master's degree from Radcliffe College. From 1922 to 1924 Cuthbert served as the Dean of the Women's College of the University of Idaho, becoming the first African American to hold a deanship in the United States. She later earned a Ph.D. from Columbia University in 1931. Her thesis was titled "The Influence of Imitation on English Literature in the Seventeenth Century." After completing her doctorate, she taught for a time as part of the faculty at Livingston College in Salisbury, North Carolina. Cuthbert was highly active in many civic organizations, advocating for civil rights and racial equality. She also wrote “Mob Madness” which was published in The Liberator in 1923. She was a part of the Harvard Writers' Club and was a long-time member of the National Association of Colored Women and the YMCA. In addition, she was involved in organizations such as the NAACP, the National Urban League, and the Women's Council Against War, which aided the anti-war campaign in the United States. In addition she was involved with many organizations that sought to improve the lives and livelihoods of African Americans.

Can you give me more context surrounding Claude Neal?

Mon, 22 May 2023 13:26:00 -0400

Claude Neal (1910-1934) was an African American man who was brutally lynched in Marianna, Florida by a white mob. In 1933, Neal had allegedly committed a sexual assault and robbery and a 15-year-old local white girl. After being arrested a few days later, the mob broke into the county jail and abducted and killed Neal. Reports of Neal's killing were not immediately made public, and only two people were reportedly arrested in connection with the case. As a result, Neal's lynching sparked national and international outrage, leading to calls for amended provisions for the protection of African Americans from mob violence throughout the United States.

A somewhat symbolic message about love.

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:20:12 -0400

The message I got from this was that love can put you through a gauntlet of thinking, only to come out with a sliver of what to do or say about your lover. That is the careful deliberation about love. You can brainstorm several different things but it really comes down to just 1 thing to say or do.

Were you trying to break the fourth wall with the statement "How could you make someone you didn’t know do things they didn’t want to do?" If so, why?

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:12:29 -0400

I wrote this passage to really bring the attention of the reader to the impact of 'the reader' in writing. I wanted to ensure that readers were made to feel like I was talking to them directly. I wanted readers to understand the idea that when you are writing something, it needs to feel authentic and relevant to the right people in order for it to be successful. Two of the most important quotes in the passage are “It’s more important that it’s believable than that it’s smart, she told us”, and “How could you make someone you didn’t know do things they didn’t want to do?” The former is really emphasizing the importance of the writer making the intended audience believe what they are reading by keeping it real. And the latter is questioning the power of a writer over their readers, and how a strong enough story can make someone do something they don't want to do, like finish the book or realize a truth that they did not want to accept. By asking these questions, I was also hoping to draw attention to how the writing style of the passage was meant to be intimate, and a bit "fourth wall-breaking". I was encouraging readers to just consider everything in the passage, to think deeper about it, and to make connections to their own experiences in life or with books, movies, TV shows, games that they have encountered in the past.

What is this paragraph trying to say? Why did the narrator refer to God as a "she?"

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:03:25 -0400

This short poem speaks about a major storm, likely Hurricane Katrina, which caused the speaker's family to flee the area. They held onto their faith in God even though they were not getting any clear answers from her, indicated by the phrase "but She ain't telling them nothin". It also implies that the narrator may be referring to God as a "she" in order to highlight the maternal, comforting aspect of a godly figure.

Why did Ma and Daddy go swimming trying to find a way out? What is this referencing?

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:07:11 -0400

This first sentence is important to this paragraph as it sets the concept that the narrator’s parents were desperately trying to find a way out of poverty and oppression. The narrator recalls their intention by noting that their “fat beautiful mouth” came from a time of such struggle in the South. The reference to Ma and Daddy going swimming is a metaphor used to symbolize the desperate attempt to survive such tough times. The background knowledge vital to understanding this text is the history of the southern United States during the time of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism and economic inequality. Much of the African-American experience of the South has been one of hard-work, poverty, and oppression. This poem speaks to these struggles, and the narrator’s attempt to piece together this history.

So, City did like her.

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:57:34 -0400

He probably just didn't realize it like Shalaya Crump picked up on very quickly.

What is the irony present within this paragraph in regards to the narrator's assertion that they don't like the girl?

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:57:34 -0400

The irony present here is that although the narrator contends that they don't like the girl, they go on to describe her in a way that implies a certain amount of respect and admiration for her interests, intelligence, and appearance. Additionally, the narrator states that no other girl had ever told them that they liked the way they dressed, implying that they were surprised and pleased by the compliment regardless of their actual feelings for the girl.

I just realized something.

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:47:07 -0400

They went back to their time where these devices weren't developed, so there is literally no way to charge them when she finally run out of electricity. Good going, City.

That's not... (HUMOR ALERT)

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:45:06 -0400

It's not even a calculator, but even if it was, why would he choose to hid it in his mouth of all places? That's going to destroy the "calculator" in the first place!

Alternate reality.

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:42:02 -0400

In this case, Baize is the one who is preparing for a spell-off. Although it's not the same as the word competition, there is a obvious connection between the 2013 City and alternate reality 2013 Baize.

What is being referenced here?

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:39:17 -0400

This is likely a reference to the swine flu pandemic that emerged in Mexico in 2009 and spread quickly around the world in 2013.

Cleaver play by Kiese Laymon

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:37:05 -0400

It's obvious Voltron is referencing the 1984 animated TV series, so when the girl exclaims that he's stuck in the 90's, it's a double layered statement. City is from the 80's which means he is not even in his current nor correct time period.

What do you think of this line? Why might the dogs of black presidents be overshadowed in comparison to white presidents getting dogs?

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:33:31 -0400

This line really resonates with me because it highlights the subtle yet powerful ways that systemic racism manifests in our culture. It's clear that the inequitable treatment of Black presidents and their pets reflects a larger pattern of unequal treatment that has been ingrained in our society for years. It's a sad reminder that the achievements and contributions of Black individuals often gets overshadowed by white counterparts, even when something as seemingly innocent and simple as choosing a canine friend is involved.

Why did you choose to introduce the Obama's as a newspaper article about their dogs instead of something slightly more grandiose?

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:40:37 -0400

I wanted to start things off in an accessible and seemingly innocuous way because I thought that the subject of politics could be off-putting for some, and I wanted everyone to feel comfortable enough to keep reading and exploring. The details of this particular type of story would be familiar to most people -- even if they don't follow politics closely, the idea of a new family pet is recognizably human and relatable. I quoted lines and specific details from the passage to help reinforce the idea of why Obama's choice of a new family dog was so momentous given the political climate. For instance, “In choosing his pup the Obama’s demonstrated not just a commitment to pet adoption but also to furthering the social consciousness around animal welfare and rights.” Even for teenagers who don't necessarily care about politics, this line speaks to them on a more personal level, dwelling on the importance of human responsibility and the power of choices we make, both big and small.

Is there a formal name to describe " those white children who be getting homeschooled up north?"

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:34:06 -0400

The phrase "white children who be getting homeschooled up north" is a colloquial expression that is commonly used to describe children from rural families who attend non-traditional establishments, such as those who are educated at home or enrolled in independent study courses remotely.

Mesmerized, or overwhelmed?

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:30:07 -0400

I don't know how to determine the level of culture shock that City went through by seeing a laptop for the first time. I don't exactly imagine what this would entail. For him to not breathe, move, or blink would imply that he is seeing something is absolutely marveling.

Potential 4th Wall Break

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:14:24 -0400

I'm currently looking at this line from the assumption that City is speaking on the fact that everyone is on their phones or electronic devices. The 4th Wall Break could be interpreted as Kiese Laymon directly communicating to the writer and literally asking why people aren't talking to each other anymore in light of rapid technological advancements.

Can City not roast someone for 5 seconds?

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:09:12 -0400

I know far too well that City is a character who speaks his mind, but there has to be a time in which his fast-thinking mouth stops and notices what it's saying. Commenting on a stranger's forehead you don't even know is absolutely crazy!

What's the implicit satire of the narrator pointing out the physical features of the girl sitting on the porch?

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:06:15 -0400

The implicit satire of the narrator is that it reflects the corrosive views of physical features often associated with "thickness," such as having "way shorter hair" and a "bigger nose," as undesirable. This is criticizing the ingrained negativity in American culture with respect to body type and physical appearance.

Why did you use "Young and the Restless" to describe City's state of mind?

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:43:40 -0400

I wanted to capture the state of confusion and distress that the protagonist was feeling in this moment. The phrase "young and the restless" metaphorically represents this feeling. I chose it to emphasize the intense emotion that the protagonist is feeling and to make it easier for readers to understand the exact state of mind they were in. This line is crucial to the story and conveys the protagonist's conflicting emotions. Quoting the line verbatim allows me to further explain the emotions felt by the protagonist. The phrase also creates a dramatic effect, as readers can now easily compare the protagonist’s feelings to its well-known meaning which often references rapid changes and a desire for more - a need to escape the present. I want readers to think about the protagonist’s experience and to empathise with their situation. I want readers to make their own connections with the phrase in their own life experiences.

What impression did you want the reader to feel when reading this sentenec?

Mon, 15 May 2023 22:58:43 -0400

When I wrote this passage, I wanted the reader to imagine the scene with me—to put themselves in my shoes and be immersed in the experience of seeing this car and hearing that loud boom. I wanted the reader to feel the same shock and excitement I felt when I saw and heard it. I think the most important lines in this passage to think about are, “It was the craziest, best-sounding boom I’d ever heard in my life” and “It was the craziest, best-sounding boom I’d ever heard in my life.” By repeating the same line, I’m hoping to hammer home the magnitude of the sound that I heard and felt. The emphasis of the words and repetition of the line creates a feeling of disbelief and amazement—it was something I’d never heard before and I wanted the reader to really understand what I was hearing and feeling just like I was.

Now that is Lust.

Mon, 15 May 2023 13:49:30 -0400

In regards to listing the physical features of Shalaya Crump, I'm assuming he's using his eyes to communicate his listings, and the exact first thing he goes to observing Shalaya Crump's chest.

Just for those who want to listen to Thriller.

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:43:01 -0400

Why did you make the connection to "Thriller" to describe the image created by this paragraph?

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:31:53 -0400

I chose to make the comparison of Shalaya Crump and I to the Michael Jackson classic "Thriller" to emphasize the intensity of the moment. I wanted to create and evoke a feeling of suspense as I described the gripping connection between the two characters. This comparison is especially effective at the end of the passage when I wrote, "Anyway, I felt like we were in our own version of “Thriller.” This line not only draws an image of the suspense in the moment, but also the palpable tension between Shalaya and the narrator. This line serves as the climax of the passage and underlines the intensity of the moment.

How does Shalaya resist common female gender stereotypes in this line?

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:28:46 -0400

We can see from this line that Shalaya resists traditional female stereotypes in two ways. Firstly, she speaks to her male companion in a direct and assertive manner. Rather than passively asking him to be quiet, she tells him to "shut the hell up." Secondly, she expresses her lack of interest in being perceived as a "Candy Girl," making a strong statement about her desire for her own liberty and autonomy. Through this line, Shalaya shows us she is not afraid to speak her mind and demand respect for herself.

What is the masculine satire behind this line? And what does this say about American Masculinity?

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:26:11 -0400

This line of text is pointing to a common stereotype surrounding American masculinity - that men must be dominant in any situation and always have the "last word" in order to be viewed as successful or important. This stereotype is often ridiculed as a counterproductive trait, as it can lead to unnecessary disagreement and conflict. The satire behind this line implies that American masculinity is based on a form of aggressive dominance, which can be detrimental in many cases.

I think I know why City called him that, Shalaya.

Tue, 16 May 2023 21:20:47 -0400

City is absolutely down for you, he adores you so much to a point where he refers to you by full name. In this scenario, he purposely demeans himself because he cannot see himself kissing someone as beautiful as you, Shalaya.

City is really trying to just love Shalaya.

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:08:04 -0400

He would rather focus on the beauty and detail of his partners lips than to listen to the future implications of their relationship.

How would a black president be received back in the 1980's?

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:05:18 -0400

This quote serves to illustrate the impact of race on the chance of having a Black president in the 1980's. It expresses the incredulity of the speaker that a Black president might receive significant consideration in the context of a primarily white society. The speaker expresses her own disbelief that such a consideration would even be considered due to the racism in the wider society. This quote is important in highlighting the reality of racism in the United States during the 1980s, and demonstrates how that would be a significant factor in any consideration of having a black president at that time. The background knowledge important for a better understanding of this text is primarily around the racial tensions in America during the 1980s. This was a time of increasing tension and unrest stemming from a long history of racism towards both African-Americans and other minorities, with strong support for segregation amongst white Americans. Additionally, there was increased opposition to Black civil rights movements and the increase in violence against African-Americans across the country. All of this created an atmosphere of fear and distrust that was a barrier to any attempts to increase African-American representation and power.

Interesting duality between Nasty and Church. It tells an impactful mini-story within itself.

Sun, 14 May 2023 21:59:38 -0400

In this context, a Church is supposed to be a place of holiness and humility. This is contrasted with the Ku Klux Klan's adamant hatred of black people. Many Ku Klux Klan members were Christian and had church-meetings. This ultimately resulted in the holy feel of the church being tarnished, and turning it into a "nasty church" in the middle of the woods left behind to the outer reaches of obscurity.

Why did you use the phrase "Jell-O Pudding Pops?"

Sun, 14 May 2023 21:55:19 -0400

I wrote this passage to capture the overwhelming nostalgia that can come with a certain connection between two people after they have been apart for a while. I used the phrase “Jell-O Pudding Pops” because it is a phrase that I think will immediately connect to an exciting, stimulating and familiar taste that many of us have experienced in our lives, as it is a type of summer treat. I wanted the reader to feel the sweetness of the reunion and the familiarity of feeling like we’ve been away from home for far too long, only to be welcomed back by a taste that serves as a reminder that home is closer than we think. So when the reader finishes this passage, I hope they will immediately return to their own personal experiences that complement the feelings in this scene. I also hope the reader will reflect on the feeling of being away from familiar places and people for a sufficient amount of time and how we eventually learn how to appreciate these moments. Quotes: "And she was one of those girls who, when she wasn’t talking, seemed to do everything in slow motion" This quote describes how Shalaya Crump moved with precision and depth, emphasizing her composure and presence. "She offered me a saltine and a sip of cold drink. Then she gave me the kind of full body hug that made me taste melted Jell-O Pudding Pops." This quote highlights the affection between the two characters when Shalaya gave a full body hug that evoked the sweet, nostalgic feeling of tasting Jell-O Pudding Pops. Overall, I wanted this passage to be a reminder of how an impactful moment between two people can evoke intense emotions, while also lingering on our tastebuds and inspiring us to reflect on our personal memories. I want the reader to take away the notion that although we may be away from home, we can always find certain reminders of home that are important in our lives.

Don't let anyone inside.

Sun, 14 May 2023 21:45:30 -0400

My interpretation of this line encapsulates the physical aspect of code-switching. Instead of changing personality, Mama Lara changes her appearance. She doesn't want anyone else to see her scars because they do not define the person she is when meeting with other people.

Metaphor for Productivity.

Sun, 14 May 2023 21:41:53 -0400

In my interpretation, the house can be seen as a field for work, and both their grandfathers entered the house because they were workaholics. They become so invested with their productivity that the house swallowed them whole, leaving nothing behind.

What does this paragraph speak upon in regard to love?

Sat, 13 May 2023 21:06:32 -0400

This paragraph speaks to the vastness of love and its power to cross boundaries in order to reach the person we care for deeply. The narrator, in dreaming of Shalaya Crump, is able to create moments of intimate connection and that speaks to how love can be felt, even when the two people are initially separated by many physical and mental distances. It suggests that when we are focused on and truly committed to someone, there is always a way to make a connection, no matter the distance.

Love & Simplicity, City

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:59:30 -0400

Throughout the entire duration of reading this book, one thing that stuck out to me was City's appreciation for simplicity. He doesn't desire to think too hard on things and wants to keep it low. Alternatively, his 1985 counterpart also reflects this. Sometimes, simplicity is just the absence of making sense, which City may adore because that is what his personality entails.

Interesting dynamic of irony.

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:54:11 -0400

Shalaya Crump discusses living out the possible future with City in times like 2013. However, she adopts older habits that keep her "grounded" in her time. Could this be some way of communicating a sort of struggle between her desires of wanting to live out the future, but being restricted by the past of today?

WOW this show is old.

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:48:37 -0400

Crazy that it's still ongoing aswell!

What is the Young and the Restless?

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:48:37 -0400

" The Young and the Restless is an American soap opera that has been running on CBS since 1973. It is set in Genoa City, Wisconsin and follows the lives of a group of wealthy families. The phrase ‘Young and the Restless’ is often used as a slang phrase meaning someone who is an excessive risk-taker.

Pristine Adoration

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:42:59 -0400

I have just realized City has only referred to Shalaya by her entire name. I think the implications of this decision to use her entire name speaks to the level of marvel that City has for the girl.

Why did City switch himself up when Shalaya Crump confessed?

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:41:12 -0400

The AI will identify the comedic elements in this dialogue, such as the exaggerated level of City switching himself up for Shalaya Crump, and the contrast between stealing Bibles to impress her and the sacrilegious nature of such a gesture, as well as the contrast between Willis being jealous of a TV show and being jealous of another real person. It may also point out the humor in City's commitment to find out which senior she has a crush on. All of these elements point towards a satire of American culture which is focused on material objects over more significant matters, as well as how status and relationships influence people's lives.

Christmas Miracle Allusion.

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:33:13 -0400

There is no other reason I could think of for Kiese Laymon to put the line "the last day of my Christmas break" alongside mentioning that Shalaya Crump claimed her love of City. I think what City is trying to imply here is some sort of godly intervention on the last day of Christmas break.

What's the implications of having the saddest story in the state of Mississippi?

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:29:51 -0400

This text is a subtle satire of American culture because although it addresses a particularly heart-wrenching story, which is seen as a unique reality in Mississippi, it also suggests that similarly heartbreaking stories can be found all over the United States, yet they often go unnoticed or unacknowledged. The text also alludes to the idea that American culture, which is often seen as a source of strength, independence and progress, can sometimes be the source of great sadness and isolation. By highlighting this disparity between expectation and reality, the text creates a commentary on American culture and its complex nature.

What is City trying to covney about Shalaya Crump by her personality?

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:26:51 -0400

Shalaya Crump is portrayed in the story as a big-hearted and understanding friend. She was accepting and thoughtful, often posing questions but not judging or disregarding people who couldn't provide the answers. The narrator appreciated this about her and appreciated the feeling of it being okay not to always have all the answers.

Who is Trayvon?

Thu, 11 May 2023 15:22:53 -0400

Trayvon Martin was an unarmed 17-year-old African-American high school student who was fatally shot in Sanford, Florida in 2012. His death sparked several national protests, as well as a national debate over Stand Your Ground laws and racial profiling by law enforcement.

WHAT!!!

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:39:55 -0400

Time Travel is confirmed.

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:39:19 -0400

HUMOR ALERT

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:38:32 -0400

These are “City Momenets” involving him just speaking his mind.

HUMOR ALERT

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:37:23 -0400

Just an extremely outlandish thing to say from City, even here.

Foreshadowing? Or Complimentary Universes?

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:36:39 -0400

Book 1 and 2 have referenced each other’s exact date by this line.

What is going on???

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:35:59 -0400

We’re reading Long Division, in which a character reads a book called Long Division, and the characters within the long division book bring up… long division?

Setting the stage of 1980's Mississippi.

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:35:17 -0400

The over-protective manner of Shalaya’s grandmother sets the tone for the setting of 1980’s Mississipi, it is a desolate and unforgiving place for black youth and Shalaya’s grandmother acknowledges that to the fullest extent by clipping Shalaya’s wings of freedom for her own safety.

Parallel to City's 2013 counterpart, a massive adoration for his mother.

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:34:37 -0400

4th Wall Break - Looking into every point of Satire brought up in the story

Thu, 04 May 2023 23:17:34 -0400

I can't help but feel like Laymon is flexing on his own writing because he knows dedicated a lot of the writing towards sub textual satire. Besides, a good way to end the book and start with a new beginning!

Race Relations - War

Thu, 04 May 2023 23:10:45 -0400

The way Grandma said this is bone-chilling, like the black and white people of this small town have been going at each other for multiple years. With Grandma's action of killing a white man, it has seemed to set off a war in the small town, and she doesn't want City to be caught in the crossfire.

Staying on the right path against adversity.

Thu, 04 May 2023 23:03:58 -0400

City literally just conspired to kill a man, but he is already trying to not cuss in front of Jesus despite him probably being present to witness Sooo Sad's death anyway.

Looking back on what could've been. (Analyzing Contemporary Race Relations/Inequality)

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:57:26 -0400

I want to look back on the potential possibility that Sooo Sad was actually involved in Baize's disappearance and possible death. If this was the case, I'm more than certain Grandma and her assailants operated and conducted this entire kidnapping based on the prime assumption that Sooo Sad would get off as a free man. This is due in part to the fact to the setting of the book, taking place during 2013, after the acquittal of George Zimmerman killing Trayvon Martin. I believe this was what caused Sooo Sad to be ultimately killed. People were afraid that the culprit wouldn't get justice due to an inequality of accountability across races in the justice system. Thus, people took justice into their own hands.

A perfect, in character reaction for LaVander to do.

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:48:45 -0400

Suffice to say, LaVander has had it with white people in the story so far. He was robbed out of a proper faceoff between him and City. Now with a powerless white man in his hands, of course he is going to hurt him as revenge on behalf of other white people.

Sooo Sad's desire for Freedom is rubbing me the wrong way. (Note on Racism)

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:41:59 -0400

The fact that Sooo Sad actively avoids answering almost every question leads me to an analysis of how race is being played in this scene. Due to Sooo Sad's traumatic event, he does not want to do anything with any black people. As such, he only speaks in a way in which he can benefit from. In this case, pleading for his freedom is this attempt of getting away from black people in a way.

Taking note of Kiese's Symbolic connection between people and objects.

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:37:06 -0400

It is already established that the sawdust in the shed is supposed to represent the legacy of City's Grandpa's hard work in his life. The effect this line has just by including it in the final product implies that City's Grandpa is watching all of this unfold.

Grandma subtly revealing her violence side. (Possible Satire on Inequality)

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:32:46 -0400

Due to the level of inequality the black populations are exposed to, they resort to religion as a principal, guiding force throughout their lives. At some point they are "saved" and thus have an unshakable faith for how much their religion has helped them. This may develop a hatred for those who are the nonbelievers, because why wouldn't you want to follow a religion that has saved people altogether?

Satire - The Culture of Success (Inequality)

Tue, 16 May 2023 20:44:07 -0400

The language here to describe the group of people who went to crowd around LaVander and City separately draws an inference from me. The younger kids are more infatuated with seeing a successful person like its a unicorn in disguise. On the other hand, the old adults, knowing how successful is rare due to the inequality of opportunity in their community, have gone to appreciate the opposite. They appreciate people who commit to making fools of themselves, such as City during the competition incident. Thus the adults are more drawn to City.

A Faithful Mosh pit of celebration.

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:22:03 -0400

This is the type of celebration that can really inspire you. This is RAW emotion being emitted from these church people and I adore it!

Talk about Desperation! (HUMOR)

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:18:25 -0400

City went to the place where a man shouldn't be assaulted for under extremely few circumstances, he went for the lower jugular!

This setting seems way more cinematic than an interior baptism.

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:13:28 -0400

There is a internal connection to nature and the world around City during this baptism, as it can be considered more “pure” than an inside baptism.

Personal Identity - Losing a part of yourself by being baptized.

Thu, 04 May 2023 15:23:14 -0400

In the personal belief of humans being an amalgamation of sin, this line can paint City's personal identity in a different light. If his sins are washed away, he will literally become a different person, with his sinful self washed away in the baptism. Perhaps this is the reason why is convinced he is going to due during the baptism.

City's Determination to Matter. (Personal Identity)

Fri, 05 May 2023 18:14:58 -0400

After the fallout with the competition, City wants to redeem himself, he wants to disassociate himself from the manner of acting like a fool through his desired ways of kindness.

I like this personification.

Wed, 03 May 2023 11:03:43 -0400

I think the connection Kiese Laymon wanted to convey with the meaning of truth in this line is that truth started getting down and dirty, trimming itself.

The Legacy of City's Grandfather. (Genealogy)

Fri, 05 May 2023 16:44:01 -0400

The scenario that this scene sets is impeccable. Imagine the person who's orchastrading your baptism speak on the past in reference to your own grandfather. In this context, City's Grandfather ascends to a messiac role in the story. He has influenced the entire town of Melahatchie in some form, even when his body isn't present.

Absurdist Comedy

Wed, 03 May 2023 10:53:48 -0400

Despite City trying to have a actual conversation with him, they just flat out ignore him and continue to undressing in front of him. This is the kind of humor I adore sometimes for just how outlandish it can be presented sometimes.

This is kind of setting me off...

Wed, 03 May 2023 10:50:55 -0400

Who eats thick sliced cucumbers?

Not surprised.

Fri, 05 May 2023 16:41:55 -0400

We still live in this kind of world, huh?

Obama's Prize ruined by City's outburst.(Race Relations)

Tue, 02 May 2023 21:37:58 -0400

It's clear that Obama's Prize is characterized as the further development of race relations in America. Obama needed to act more professional in order to represent black people in a more serious light. City has severely set back this prize by his outburst on national tv.

He drew the line where acting like a fool felt good. (Personal Identity)

Fri, 05 May 2023 18:10:08 -0400

City did something so diabolical in terms of acting like a fool that it completely sapped his reservoirs of "feeling good" from acting like a fool. He failed in front of millions, and possibly set black people "back to square one" in trying to prove themselves not to be fools. There should be no reason to feel good from acting like a fool anymore, that's how he identities himself in this situation and mindset.

Another low-hanging fruit version of foreshadowing.

Tue, 02 May 2023 21:03:26 -0400

Laymon has no other reason to put this line here unless it suggests that Soooo Sad was involved in the disappearance of Baize Shephard.

Here's the song

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:58:15 -0400

A rather depressing word for success.

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:56:50 -0400

This is a satire on American success, for some people, the barrier is impossible to cross. These types of artists will still create a "shit" product, no matter if its a classic piece or regular piece. This means they their work will always be boxed into something less.

WOW!

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:42:55 -0400

This sentence by City pretty much sums up the contemporary context of race relations in 2013 America. Black people are angry for being treated the way they have been treated for nearly 3 centuries. This hatred of white folks has reached a boiling point to which some people would betray their faith just to get back at white people. This is heavily implied through the subtext of what happened just a year prior in 2013 relating to Trayvon Martin. I can't shake the feeling that the mention of Trayvon Martin was and is still essential to understanding the contemporary context of this book.

A Deeper meaning connected to inequality in America.

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:29:29 -0400

Living in the south isn't easy for an African-American. As we've seen, City isn't safe for just being a teenager. This connects to the temporary race relations of America even in the year 2013, which was just a year after Trayvon Martin was killed as mentioned in the book.

Is City just using odd words to describe Cherry's hand or is something deeper?

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:19:40 -0400

Paws can be used to decscribe the paws of a cat, more or so a predator. I hope this is just City being more dynamic in his words than suggesting Cherry is a... predator.

So she already knew prior to his lie of not getting beat by a bunch of white men?

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:10:15 -0400

Explains how brutal she was when dealing with Sooo Sad.

I JUST realized the context of City's name in connection to his personal identity.

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:08:53 -0400

In the overarching premise of the book, City lives with his mom in a city. Her Grandma lives somewhere in the countryside in a small town. In this context, his name represents the inner-city, bustling life of modern America. On the other hand, his Grandparent's may represent the other side of City's identity, the countryside of his life.

The Irony of Sooo Sad's name.

Tue, 02 May 2023 20:03:26 -0400

Just a few chapters ago, Sooo Sad was involved in the racially motivated beating of City. It seems Kiese is trying to sarcastically characterize Sooo Sad as someone who may deserve pity due to his current condition, but his past actions nullify this feeling of pity.

A Tragic Line. (Personal Identity)

Mon, 15 May 2023 13:43:28 -0400

City claims that he only liked to be in the shed just to mess around, but he is symbolically surrounded by the hardwork his Grandpa left him in the form of sawdust. This could potentially speak to a connection between City and his Grandparents. He doesn't want to follow in their footsteps.