Gautaman Asirwatham PD 2 - Blog #1 9/16/19

Today's lesson began with considering which food we would choose for our last meal. There were 2 main approaches to answering the question. Some were more survival-focused and choose foods that are very filling or easy to ration. Others chose their favorite food or another similarly indulgent option. This discussion brought to light some of the sentimentality associated with the food we eat. Some foods might be seen as bland and depressing while other foods might be exciting and delightful.

Next, we talked about the scene in "The Road" in which Father finds pears. He is delighted to find them even though they are just pears. As the reader, we must understand that pears are a rare, sweet treat in the setting of "The Road". This gives the pears the sentiment of hopefulness and happiness, both of which our protagonists were lacking. 

Another topic of discussion was the choice to stay in or leave the bunker. While staying is the easier choice to survive for a bit longer it is also short-sided. What if they run out of food? Or what if people find them? If these things happen then they will likely die. By choosing to keep moving our protagonists are choosing to fight for their lives. In this way, the decision embodies hope for their futures which is a constant struggle throughout the book.

In today's lesson, I learned that all kinds of things can be literary symbols. For example, the food choice in the scene we discussed is intentional to show that hope was more important to our character's survival than food. Also, the decision to leave the bunker shows how the dad and son have stayed hopeful for their futures.