AP Language and Composition
Bertozzi
Mountains. Hawks wheeling in the white sky.
Two segments of text on pages 107-113 of In Cold Blood offer distinct points of view on the same span of
time.
These passages also represent, as well as any passage of text in the book, Truman Capote’s style: his diction,
syntax, and selection and arrangements of detail makes these passages powerfully provocative and
expressive.
But given the presence of these two accounts, there is a question that begs to be asked:
“What is the impact of the juxtaposition of these two related-but-distinct accounts of the same time span?”
The Assignment:
Write an essay that explains the presence of these two representations of the same time span in In Cold
Blood. Account for the content and stylistic differences in the two representations of the time span. Focus
on language features that distinguish each version; consider the author’s purpose. This means that you will
need to cite and discuss sentences, words and phrases (language) that support and illustrate your argument.
Length – 2.5-3 pages, typed, 12 font Times New Roman, double spaced
Due date: 3/13 (Thurs)

FCAs:
o An underlined claim in which you argue why Capote uses this technique. Your claim
should address what these passages reveal about Capote’s attitude
o At least three pieces of quoted evidence from the text. Properly cited
o Proper use of apostrophes
o A creative title
o Completed worksheet [see BACK]
“The car was parked on a promontory…” (107-110)
Content:
“Mountains. Hawks wheeling a white sky…” (110113)
Content:
Diction:
Diction:
Syntax:
Syntax: