Kristen Duscher

Extended Learning: Regents Part 3- Christopher Nolan Passage

For the most part, the central idea of the text seems to be that sometimes, life is
uncontrollable and it can be arduous to thrive. However, fate could get in the way and improve
ones conditions. The author was able to develop this idea through the use of figurative language
(such as metaphor, simile, personification, etc).
This passage was mainly about a boy, Joseph Meehan, who struggled with paralysis,
which prevented him from doing simple tasks, such as typing. Throughout the passage, the
author mentions the failures of the boys body, in order to make the audience feel sympathy for
him. The author used figurative language to get this point across. One of his several examples of
figurative language deals with simile. Two great legs I may have, but put my bodyweight on
them and they collapse under me, like a house of cards (lines 12-13). This shows how Joseph
struggles to complete straightforward tasks, such as walking. This simile makes it easier for the
reader to comprehend the damage done to his body.
Another example of figurative language in the passage deals with personification. But
fate was listening and fate it was that had frozen his freedom (line 17). The author gave the
lifeless concept human qualities. This example helps the reader understand Josephs struggles
and is closely connected to the ideas of struggle and fate. Fate plays a significant role in the
passage because things wouldnt have worked out for Joseph. He wouldnt have been able to
type if it wasnt for fate. Of course his teacher heavily contributed to his success; however, she
wouldnt have been able to teach him how to type if it wasnt for fate. Eventually, Joseph learns
to type and reaches his goal. Yes, he could type. He could freely hit the keys and he looked in

the mirror and met her eyes (lines 67-68). He was able to overcome his obstacles to complete
this simple task.
The medication Joseph took, Lioresal, slightly contributed to his success, which was
triggered by fate. The author encompassed an example of figurative language to show how the
medication affected his goal. The little segments of Lioresal tablet seemed harmless, but yet
they were the mustard seeds of his and Evas hours of discovery (lines 51-53). He used this
metaphor to show how much progress Joseph and his teacher made and how they worked hard to
reach Josephs goal.
Overall, the ideas of struggle and fate played an immense role in this passage. Yes,
Joseph struggled to type and carry out simple tasks; however, he wouldnt be able to reach his
goal without fate. When it all comes down to it, fate is the reason why this all happened.