Patrick lived in Emoryville, but every Saturday morning, he rode two city buses to his uncles bookstore in Northview where he worked. He didn’t mind the commute because he loved his job. He loved spending time with his uncle, but he also loved going into work because he had become friends with Andrew, one of his coworkers. The boys would talk about everything from baseball to movies to favorite pizza toppings. So this Saturday, Patrick, and Andrew got to talking as they always did.

Question

“Hey, Pat,” Andrew said casually.
“Hey,” said Patrick. “ Did you have a good week?”
“Yeah,” He said.
“ Great week. My basketball team made it into the semifinals. The game is tonight. We’re playing Emoryville, our nemesis.”
Before Patrick say another word, Andrew continued.
“ I don’t like that Emoryville. I don’t think I could ever be friends with someone from that town. Our schools are such rivals.”
Patrick was speechless.
“ Where are you from, Pat? I can’t believe I’ve never asked you that before!”
Patrick from over his words. “ Not too far from here,” He said before he quickly changed the subject to the new shipment of graphic novels.
Write a paragraph explaining the structure of structure contributes to the meaning of the story.

Answer 1

The structure of the story, with the setting and characters gradually revealed through dialogue and interaction, contributes to the meaning by highlighting the theme of friendship and acceptance. Patrick’s reluctance to reveal where he is from, as well as Andrew’s quick judgment of people from Emoryville, demonstrates how preconceived notions can prevent people from forming genuine connections with others. By focusing on the boys’ conversations and their developing friendship, the story emphasizes the importance of looking beyond stereotypes and finding common ground with others. The structure of the story allows the reader to see the characters’ growth and realization that friendships can transcend rivalries and differences.