What theme or themes does the author explore in the novel? Which passages in the text connect to theme?
A theme that I think the author explores in the book One Day In The life of Ivan Denisovich is the theme about taking pride in what you do. I think this because in the beginning of the section we read this week, Ivan had just finished working late. He had been working late because he thought that they had done a good job and he did not want to jeopardize that by leaving in the middle of the job. This showed that he has pride in his work and does not want it ruined. Instead, he wants people to be able to use the things that he built. Another reason that I think pride in your work is an important theme in this book is is that Ivan wants the tools that he needs to do a good job. You can tell this by the quote "But did that mean he was to throw down his trowel? If he'd swiped it he had to hold onto it" (pg. 106 Slozhenitsyn) He would not have stolen the trowel if he did not think that he needed it to do a good job, showing that he wanted to be able to be proud of his work. For these two reasons, I think that pride in your work is a central theme in this book.
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| This is how Ivan wants to feel about his work |
Katie,
ReplyDeleteI really liked your post, specially all your examples that proved your point. Adding onto your thoughts, I think the reason the author chose to use that theme is because of a contradiction to what society may think. For example, when you go to jail, it's not something to be proud of, it's something you should fear. But in the book, the main character was put in the camp for no real reason, which means he has nothing to be ashamed of, therefore, he shows pride.
Great post!
Martu
Hello Katie. Good work on explaining your examples and I also think that the book's theme is taking pride in what you do. However, I also think that human dignity can take place in one of the themes. Even though the characters lives in a vicious condition, the characters treats each other with respect and kindness. I also believe that one of the themes can be faith This is because Shukhov first believes in God but changes to prioritise his his bodily needs over those of his soul, to a happier though possibly hungrier individual who feeds his spirit first.
ReplyDeleteAwesome work Katie!