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EH 210, Introduction to Fiction
3-5 page paper due, Tuesday, October 20th
1. Choose three names of people or places in Song of Solomon and explore their origins. Three good ones might be how the original Macon Dead got his name, how Milkman got his name, and how Not Doctor Street was named.
2. Discuss Milkman’s relationship with his father. For instance, why does Milkman hit Macon? What does Macon tell Milkman when he comes to his room? Look at the details, not just the shocking claim. When Milkman looks in the mirror after this encounter, what does he see—or fail to see—in himself?
3. Discuss the use of mythical or fairytale allusions in Song of Solomon. Explore all mythical allusions you can find.
4. Why doesn’t Pilate know her mother’s name? What does she know about her?
5. Reread the opening scene of the novel and analyze it carefully. Some possible questions to answer: How do the singing woman and the pregnant woman differ? How do they seem to be connected? What events emphasize the hierarchy imposed by the hospital workers? Compare Robert Smith’s farewell letter with Porter’s tearful comments when he’s drunk and shouting from his window.
6. A topic of your own design.