Question
Read the story "Family Reunion." Based on the information in the story, write a response to the following:
Most of the story can be described as anxious and suspenseful. What is the purpose of creating a joyful
and expectant tone in paragraphs 1 and 22?
Write a well-organized 3- to 5-paragraph informational essay that uses specific evidence from the story to
support your answer.
Answer
The purpose of creating a joyful and expectant tone in paragraphs 1 and 22 of the story "Family Reunion" is to contrast the anxious and suspenseful tone of the rest of the story and to provide a sense of hope and anticipation for the characters and readers. In paragraph 1, the narrator describes the family reunion as a “joyous occasion” and in paragraph 22, the narrator states that the family is “filled with anticipation” for the reunion. This contrast between the anxious and suspenseful tone of the rest of the story and the joyful and expectant tone of the beginning and end of the story serves to create a sense of hope and anticipation for the characters and readers.
The contrast between the anxious and suspenseful tone of the story and the joyful and expectant tone of the beginning and end of the story is further emphasized by the use of imagery and symbolism. In paragraph 1, the narrator describes the family reunion as a “joyous occasion” and uses imagery of “the sun shining brightly” and “the birds singing” to create a sense of joy and anticipation. Similarly, in paragraph 22, the narrator uses imagery of “the sun setting” and “the stars twinkling” to create a sense of hope and anticipation for the family reunion. This imagery serves to emphasize the contrast between the anxious and suspenseful tone of the rest of the story and the joyful and expectant tone of the beginning and end of the story.
The contrast between the anxious and suspenseful tone of the story and the joyful and expectant tone of the beginning and end of the story also serves to create a sense of suspense and anticipation for the readers. In paragraph 1, the narrator describes the family reunion as a “joyous occasion” and in paragraph 22, the narrator states that the family is “filled with anticipation” for the reunion. This contrast between the anxious and suspenseful