"MY OLD NEWCASTLE"
by David Adams Richards (Viewpoints 11, 306)
1.
Find examples of descriptive writing techniques
(concrete nouns, strong verbs, and figurative language
such as similes, metaphors, sound devices) and
explain how the language helps to develop the
"message" of the essay.
2.
Discuss how the last sentence in the opening
paragraph establishes the tone of the memoir.
3.
What is the purpose of having the sentence at the top
of page 307 standing alone as a paragraph?
4.
How does Richards organize the essay, that is, what
perspective and transitions does he use to move his
essay along? Is his organization effective? Why or
why not?
5.
What is Richards' attitude towards the Newcastle of
his youth? Towards modern Newcastle? Find
evidence from the memoir to support your
conclusion. How do these attitudes convey Richards'
thesis? State the thesis.
6.
Choose an object, photograph, painting, piece of
music, etc. that makes you feel nostalgic and write a
memoir. Be sure to use vivid description and
comparison. Have a definite thesis. Your memoir
should be 500 to 750 words.