Narrative Perspectives and Symbolism

The video explores Sharon Olds' poem 'On the Subway', focusing on the encounter between a boy and the speaker. It delves into themes of power dynamics, racial and social commentary, and the symbolism present in their interaction. The poem reflects on the ease of privilege and the underlying tensions between different social and racial backgrounds.

What is the main theme introduced in the poem 'On the Subway' by Sharon Olds?

• Love and relationships

• Racial and social tension

• Nature and environment

• Technology and progress

How are the boy's sneakers described in the poem?

• Bright and colorful

• Small and red

• Huge and black with white laces

• Worn out and brown

What does the narrator compare the boy's sneakers to?

• A pair of wings

• A beautiful painting

• A musical instrument

• A set of intentional scars

What is the narrator's initial feeling towards the boy?

• Joy

• Admiration

• Fear

• Indifference

What does the narrator fear the boy might take?

• Her book

• Her shoes

• Her coat and briefcase

• Her phone

What does the narrator compare her coat to?

• A warm blanket

• The skin of an animal

• A protective shield

• A fashionable garment

What does the narrator question about her interaction with the boy?

• If she should offer him help

• Whether he is a student

• If she is in his power

• Whether she should speak to him

What does the narrator reflect on regarding racial dynamics?

• The beauty of diversity

• The ease of her life due to her skin color

• The importance of equality

• The challenges of communication

How does the narrator describe the boy's absorption of societal issues?

• Like a sponge soaking up water

• Like black cotton absorbing the sun's heat

• Like a tree absorbing sunlight

• Like a book absorbing knowledge

What realization does the narrator come to about her own life?

• It is full of adventure

• It is made easier by her skin color

• It is full of challenges

• It is completely independent of others