Week 4

Vocab
counterweights (197)- A force or influence equally counteracting another
questionnaire (97)- a list of questions, usually printed, submitted for replies that can be analyzed for usable information
Figurative Language
"First of, way to rip off the US, science. Look familiar (203)?"
(refering to the a map, and the periodic table of elements)
This is a metaphor, saying that the periodic table was influenced by America itself.
"Plus vitamin C? If I want to avoid scurvy, Ill eat sauerkraut with the rest of the crew (204)."
This is imagery, with Stevo pretending to be a pirate of some sorts, and avoid diseases with old fasion- tactics.
"Sometimes I envy the folks in the Lower class, like the kid I was pretending to be in that story (167)." This is a simile, because early Stephen was tapping into the emotions of a poor person through the image of somelike, a small, weak little boy.
Theme
A theme that represents Stephen is the relations to an average democratic American. He acts the way he acts to mearly poke fun at snooty Replublicans, even whens hes acting like one.
Quote
"Don't ruin the text, let your tears fall here (161)." This quote is significant because it shows that through Stephens writings, he can tap into our entire spectrum of emotions. This can create tears of laugher, or tears of sadness, in one single chapter!
Dear Stephen,
I continue to read, and I continue to be proud of America. In your book, you focus on sensative subjects that can bring a nation together, or tear them apart. From gay marriage, to class wars, you always have the right answer. You also withhold such confidence that inspires me at the same time.
"Wake up call: If i die, I know that im either going to heaven or hell. Theres no gray area there..(heaven, just to be clear)
Its words like that that help me get through the day. I will contine to support the Colbert nation, and know that I can achieve anything... as long as you come back to television...