So far, this lesson has emphasized the differences between classic literature and more recent novels written especially for young adults. However, there are many similarities between books in the two categories, as well. These connections are important to know because they can help you read and appreciate works of classic literature, regardless of an older novel’s more difficult style and more complex themes.
See if you can identify some similarities in the two short stories below. One is a classic short story written by an author best known as O. Henry (his pen name) and published in 1906. The other is more recent short story that demonstrates many of the characteristics of young adult literature. First, listen to “After Twenty Years” as you read along. Then read “Hawk,” which is written in an informal style that will present few challenges to you as a reader. Make a mental list of any similarities you notice in the stories’ conflicts, themes, and approach to storytelling.
What do these stories have in common, in spite of their very different origins? Answer the questions below to compare characters, conflicts, themes, and literary devices. Then, at the end of the activity, compare your answers to the samples.
What kind of agreement is at the heart of both stories?
In both stories, what do readers not know until the very end?
What characters in the two different stories are similar to each other? What makes them similar?
How are the conflicts faced by the two stories’ characters similar?
What shared message do the two stories send?
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Both stories involve a promise between two people who were once really close but have not seen each other in a long time. |
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They don’t know whether or not the promises that were made will be kept. |
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Both stories include one character who makes good (moral and smart) decisions and one character who makes immoral or illegal choices. |
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In both stories, the “good guys” have to choose between conscience (the urge to do what’s right) and the pressure to make new friends or honor old friendships. |
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Good people choose to do what’s right even when it’s difficult--they keep their promises in ways that help them stay true to themselves. |
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