MATTIE STEPANEK

1. Who was Mattie Stepanek?
Mattie Stepanek was an American poet,who had six books of poetry and one book of essays. He also became a peace advocate and motivational speaker.

2. Why do you think he was famous?
Because he can wrote poetry at age of three. All five of his poetry reach New York Times bestsellers list.

3. What is posthumous?
Posthumous mean happening after someone's death or given to someone or pointed after their death.

4. What does Jimmy Carter mean when he said  "We have known kings and queens, and we've known presidents and prime ministers, but the most extraordinary person whom I have ever known in my life is Mattie Stepanek. His life philosophy was 'Remember to play after every storm!' and his motto was: 'Think Gently, Speak Gently, Live Gently'. He wanted to be remembered as a poet, a peacemaker, and a philosopher who played". Explain the context.
Jimmy Carter mean that Mattie Stepanek is one of the person that will be remembered by the people forever although Mattie already dead, Mattie will be such a legendary on his life because he proud of Mattie self as well. Mattie philosophy and motto have a strong meaning that want we to be happy although after got some problem and Mattie want we to be a perfect person and be mature on what we do.

A Matter of Balance

QUESTIONS :

a. What significant events or details in the story are revealed through flashbacks?
b. What inferences can you make regarding the fate of Harold's wife?
c. From the beginning of the story, Harold's behaviour is motivated by feelings of uneasiness. How does the author develop these feelings?
d. How does Harold rationalize his leaving the bikers in such a dangerous position? What other reasons might he have? Do you think his actions are justified? Discuss.
e. Comment on the appropriateness and effectiveness of the title.


ANSWER :

a. He remembered when his wife was died because she was killed and he also was bullied by kids from his public school when he was grade two.
b. The death of his wife cannot be expected. The way of her death maybe make Harold become more ill. He was trauma and still can't help himself out from depression.
c. The author develop these feelings by adding more conflicts such as when the bikers following and like to scared Harold.
d. Yes. The actions are justified because he might be disturb again by the bikers if he help them out and Harold also have an illness. He maybe can't think better what should he do.
e. The title of this story are appropriate and effective because the flashback and the situation on his life now almost same.