Name: ______Date: ______P-___
This assignment requires you to follow the format below.
Purpose: To characterize Mary Maloney while showing her as a dynamic character. Show a shift in her character in your poem. (Patrick Maloney is extra credit and static)
Structure of Characterization Poem
Line 1 = noun
Line 2 = adjective, adjective
Line 3 = “ing” verb, “ing” verb, “ing” verb
Line 4 = Four word statement about the character
Line 5 = For Mary, choose an antonym of line 1 that shows her dynamic nature.
Example of a characterization poem (static)
The Teacher
Determined, selfless
Planning, Instructing, Hoping
A love of learning
Dream Maker
Procedures
1. Pick a character
2. Brainstorm a list of adjectives.
3. Brainstorm a list of present participles. (ing-verbs that act as adjectives)
4. Brainstorm a list of synonyms.
5. Choose the best ones.
6. Organize appropriately.
“Dear Abby”
You are to choose the persona of either Mary or Patrick. Next, you will write a letter to Dear Abby asking for advice about your marriage.
You must use mostlyindirect characterizationto describe your spouse and your dilemma. SHOW me rather than just telling me. Use your understanding of indirect characterization methods to paint a great image of the relationship. You must use at least three examples of indirect characterization. You may create evidence, but it must fit the story and the character. Below is an example of a real “Dear Abby” letter. This example DOES NOT use the type of indirect characterization I’m expecting from you.
GOOD OLD DAYS ARE LONG GONE FROM DETERIORATING RELATIONSHIP
DEAR ABBY: I am an 18-year-old woman and have been with my fiance for 2 1/2 years. I love him and can't picture my life without him. However, over the last six months he has become emotionally abusive. He's never wrong, gets mad if I disagree with him about anything, and he yells at me over every little thing.
He used to treat me great, and now this. I miss how it used to be, and I cry almost every day. In the past I always told myself I would never put up with something like this, but I have been -- and it gets harder every day. I know it's not physical, but emotional abuse counts for something, right? Or am I overreacting? Please give me some advice. I need to know there IS a light at the end of the tunnel. -- SAD IN LAS VEGAS
DEAR SAD: You're not overreacting. What you are experiencing now is a preview of how the rest of your life will be if you stay with him. When a partner becomes controlling and emotionally abusive, in most cases it's only a matter of time until the physical abuse begins. If you're smart, you will put an end to this NOW. The "light at the end of the tunnel" is the sunshine you'll see once you exit this relationship and slam the door behind you.