Question

Enrique was once on a train that derailed. His car lurched so violently that he briefly thought of jumping off to save himself. Enrique rarely lets himself admit fear, but he is scared that his car might tip. El Tren de La Muerte, some migrants call it. The Train of Death.

—Enrique’s Journey,

Sonia Nazario

Which narrative element does each phrase support? Choose from the drop-down menus.

“was once”

“rarely lets himself admit fear”

“The Train of Death”

What purpose does the author’s use of these phrases and techniques support?

Answer 1

“was once” — backstory/flashback (exposition)

“rarely lets himself admit fear” — characterization/internal conflict (reveals Enrique’s inner feelings)

“The Train of Death” — foreshadowing/symbolic imagery (sets ominous tone about danger)

Purpose: Nazario uses these phrases to give necessary background, reveal Enrique’s vulnerable inner life despite his outward toughness, and to create an ominous, suspenseful mood that highlights the real danger migrants face and elicits reader sympathy.