Into the Beautiful North

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Please get together in the assigned groups this morning to conduct a discussion on the book Into the Beautiful North. By the way, please turn in your homework on part II of the novel.

Discussion questions (see sheet, but here they are as well...)
1. What is the overall tone of the book? Does this tone shift? If so, in what section and why? If not, why not?
2. What purpose does the epigraph have? In what ways does it relate to the novel?
3. Discuss Urrea's writing style. Consider the use of diction, characterization, plotting, structure, syntax, setting, and dialogue. What did you like or dislike about his writing style? How would you improve it if you wrote the book? How might you apply his style to your own, if you found it effective?
4. What scene did you most enjoy when reading the book? Why?
5. Examine the influence of film (in particular the Magnificent Seven) as a structural device used by Urrea.
6. Which character did you most identify with? Which character was the most interesting? Which character did you not like? Back up your responses with: Why?
7. How is this book's plot archetypal?
8. Identify the key themes in this novel. What seems to be Urrea's point or message? Is the message a valid or important one in your opinion? Why or why not?
9. What question(s) would you like to ask the author if you got the chance?
10. Choose your own question(s) and discuss with your group members.
During 2nd period we will move to the lab. Please work on your portfolios. Portfolios are due Thursday.
  • You will need a short reflection (don't talk about the course unless there's something you need from me, but focus on your progress as a writer of the work included in the portfolio--don't bitch and moan, but reflect on what is working and not working for you in your writing.) By the way, I get it...the marking period went by quickly...If you have specific writing questions or concerns, please let me know them in your reflection. 
  • You MAY have (optional, but involving what we covered this marking period):
    • A poem (perhaps in the style of Octavio Paz)
    • A play (particularly involving the history or culture of a place, say, South America or Mexico)
    • A transformation/metamorphosis story
    • A fairy tale story or poem
  • You will need a draft of a magical realist story
  • You will need at least one revision or crafted work
HOMEWORK: Prepare your portfolio.

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