Outcast

The idea of being an outcast can be seen in both "Be Nobody's Darling" and "Fleur." In "Be Nobody's Darling," Alice Walker describes an "outcast" as a good thing and something that sets you apart from everyone else and you should embrace those differences. Also, if you are outcasted, just find people that do not consider you to be weird or different. However, in "Fleur," Louise Erdrich describes how Pauline is an outcast because she does not look like Fleur and how no one pays her any attention. Fleur is also considered an outcast because she doesn't act like most other women because she dresses like men and she plays cards with the men. The stories of where Fleur came from and what she did to the other men also makes her an outcast.

Both of these readings focus on the same topic, outcasts, but have different views on whether its acceptable to be an outcast or not. I believe that there are certain circumstances where it's good to be an "outcast" and other times where it's better to not be an outcast. For instance if you are around people that are doing dangerous things or putting you in danger then it is better to just outcast yourself from them even if they make fun of you because there are plenty of people that will understand you and will be able to have fun with in a safe place. However I also think that it is important to stay connected to your peers and live an active life in society. People that surround themselves with other people that make them happy are generally happier people. It just seems to make sense to find people that will accept you and have fun with.

Taylor Wienke, Post 1