Reading Log Notes: “And Of Clay Are We Created”

Literary Terms:--Allusion

A reference to something well-known from literature, history, mythology, or some other aspect of culture.

---Mood Atmosphere or “feeling” created in the reader, by the

author

---Point of View Vantage point from where the story is told

“And Of Clay Are We Created”

Discussion Questions:Author’s purpose: Why do you think the

writer begins the story with a description of Azucena instead of with the details of the volcanic eruption?Gives the story its focus (point)Keeps the reader’s attention on the human side

of the event

Common Themes: What qualities of Rolf Carle are similar to those of the rescuers in the expert from “102 Minutes”? Bravery, fortitude amid danger and chaos

“And Of Clay Are We Created”Discussion Questions:What details early on suggest that the

journalist, Rolf, is forging a bond with the girl?

His determination to rescue her, his contact with her (smiling and speaking with her), and the break in his voice as he promises to free her.

Point of View: Why does the author choose to use this first-person narrator to tell the story?

Draws in readers and helps them experience the horrifying event as it unfolds.

“And of Clay Are We Created”Discussion Questions:What does Rolf continue to desperately request?

A pump to free Azucena from the mud

In what ways is Rolf able / unable to help Azucena? Unable to free her; Able to comfort her and distract her with

stories

How is Rolf’s interaction with Azucena changing him? He is being forced to face painful memories that he has long

ago buried.

In what ways do the parallels between the two characters hint at a theme in the story?

Parallels: Human pain & emotion are universal; we cannot permanently detach ourselves from them

“And of Clay Are We Created”How has Azucena’s experience brought back

memories of Rolf’s own childhood? She reminds him of his sister.

How specifically does his sister Katharina materialize before him?

“…Rolf crawled beneath the dining room table, and with her hid there under the long white tablecloth…”

“And of Clay Are We Created”Discussion Questions:The story’s title contains an allusion to

passages from the Bible in which people are viewed as being shaped from clay, as well as from a number of world religions and myths that also refer to people as being created from earth.

What universal theme is suggested by this title?

Human pain and emotion are universal; Azucena’s plight is broadcast around the world.

Actual footage