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Analysis Of Bil Buford's Essay: The Lesson

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The essays “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara and “Lions and Tigers and and Bears” by Bil Buford, both challenge the ideas that individuals sometimes feel bonded by, beliefs that stunt growth and freedom. These essays take place in New York City, circa 1970 and 2000 respectively. In Buford’s essay, the reader is given a historical account of Central Park, the murders, past visitors and lastly the people he meet that night. A park one might say mimics the atmosphere of a wilderness, though devoid of the animals that prevent one from immersing oneself with nature. Funnily enough, it is “our” nature that avert one from visiting, for fear of being targeted by murderers and senseless idiots Buford reasons. However, he is determined to stay a night in Central Park. Buford meets many people, sometimes …show more content…

Buford’s essay an example of total immersion journalism, his knowledge of Central Park conjunct with his experience being present at the park. There is a focus on the visual, sensory experiences, the beauty of the lake and sky-high buildings. There is rich, historical content, spanning to the beginnings of the park, documenting different architechtual design. On the other hand, Bambara views her writing as a means to transform society, socially and politically. This is evident in her short story, “The Lesson”. The diction and grammar containing vernacular attributed to African Americans. Unlike Buford, the main character Sylvia is ill mannered. She assumes the leader position of her friends, poking fun at Miss Moore’s appearance and carrying a sarcastic attitude. However, Sylvia is not all distasteful. When Miss Moore questions the children about the expensive price tags, she senses Sylvia is mad. One can interpret, when even a rebellious person is mad, it probably means they have witness some injustice. This is clear by her statement, there is an uneasy feeling in “my

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