In an essay of 800-1000 words, explain the theme of this story based on who Arnold Friend is. You may choose one or more of the above versions
In her article “Connie Turns Fifty: ‘Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?’ as Postmodern Experience,” Nancy Barendse reviews the many interpretations of Oates’ cautionary tale and explains that “What we think happens to Connie after she leaves with Arnold Friend . . . depends on how we picture Arnold” (24). These interpretations look at Arnold as Satan, a dream, a stalker, or her savior/rescuer. In truth, there is no right answer. Barendse reveals that “Oates has been asked, several times, and she has provided answers and other statements that seem to support each version of Arnold” (27). It is possible, too, that the lines between the versions can be blurred and bleed into each other (Satan in a dream, Charles Schmid as a character in a dream, symbol of Bob Dylan as teenage rescuer, etc.).
In an essay of 800-1000 words, explain the theme of this story based on who Arnold Friend is. You may choose one or more of the above versions or anything you deduce from the story. He is who you say he is as long as you can provide substantial evidence from the text to explain and support this idea. How does this view of Arnold support Oates’ purpose? You may also want to summarize and discredit these other translations of Arnold to better support your analysis.
Answer preview for In an essay of 800-1000 words, explain the theme of this story based on who Arnold Friend is. You may choose one or more of the above versions
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