The two stories selected for the discussion are “A Fixed Income” and “Valediction”. A “Fixed Income” highlights the plight of minorities in the United States through Sherman’s experience at McDonald’s. He explains that most of the employees at the restaurant are blacks and Latinos. Moreover, these workers are college graduates and the elderly people. This workforce earns meager salaries that cannot fulfill their daily needs (Alexie, 2016). Beyond the description, the author aims to demonstrate the difficulties immigrants undergo in securing jobs in the United States. The text ignites sad emotions about the minority groups in America, which makes a reader consider advocating for these groups’ rights. For instance, when the author states “I am not as desperate as many people,” it indicates that most immigrants in America are frantic and suffering from poverty (Alexie, 2016, para 6). A follow-up question would be, what else can refugees in America do to ease their plight if education seems unhelpful?
“Valediction” explores the concept of choices and consequences. John and Pete defied school policies and decided to steal from a nearby store. The inability of their parents to forbid their actions led them to continue until John was apprehended, punished, and expelled from the school for a month. Pete made the right choice to discontinue the behavior, hence was unpunished. The story exemplifies the negative effects of misconduct and benefits of good behavior. The text communicates the consequences of poor life choices and the importance of obeying policies. The writing leaves several questions, such as the causes of the boys’ behaviors, and why the parents developed hatred toward each other. The narrator also states that “our parents ignored each other too”, which leaves a hidden message about the boys’ stealing behavior (Alexie, 2016, Valediction, para 26). The outcome created enmity between John and Pete and their parents illustrating the effects of toxic friendships.
Reference
Alexie, Sherman (2016). Saturday rumpus fiction: Three short stories by Sherman Alexie. The Rumpus. Web.