Both Malcom X’s narrative “Learning to Read” and Mike Rose’s
“I just wanna be average” had distinct writing styles and unique content, yet
both stories also have striking similarities in their theme that the right motivation
can push you to further your academic career.
Malcom X dropped out of school after 8th grade, and when he got
involved in criminal activity and landed in prison it would have been easy for
him to give up hope. Despite this, this experience motivated him to learn how
to read and become literate. Mike Rose’s essay is similar in the way that
school was an experience that at
first negatively affected him, but also motivated him to see it from a different
perspective, that students should embrace average standards, and not be afraid
to fail. This motivated Rose to get a college education. Both essay’s also
follow a story and a chronological order, consistent with most narratives.
As to differences in both essays, Malcom and Rose convey
their stories quite differently. While Malcom recalls his experiences from a
rather detached view and focus on what he took from it, Rose almost transports
you to his classroom, vividly describing people and dialogue and shifting tone
throughout the essay, from anger and frustration, to inspiration and peace. I
enjoyed reading both essays, which were very eloquently written, and can
inspire anyone who has given up on their education, to think again.
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