Self-Identity
Self-identity refers to an individual's capacity and potential as it manifests itself most effectively in the social setting of their interactions with other people. Finding one's unique talents entails cutting out the aspects of life that don't contribute to the self-worth of the individual. Sherman uses the example of John-John, who attempts to remember his name, to illustrate the problem of recognizing one's aptitude and qualities in his book Flight: A Novel. (Sherman 41). Contrarily, Cisneros describes in her book how describing the life circumstances of the topic helps determine a person's suitability for it. (Cisneros 12). The works of Sherman and Cisneros have made strides in expounding the issues which deal with self-identity. One of the similarities they have is that they explain the concept is the usage of historical references. Joseph reminds John-John that he is his brother which brings the idea that they have known each other for a long time. Joseph's efforts aim at reminding his identity (Sherman 41). On the other hand, Cisneros explains that the subject matter in her book is the places where the characters have been living (Cisneros 11).
Most Significant Issue: Making Historical Comparisons
The most significant issue about making historical comparison is that it defines the identity of the person in the sense that someone's past showcases their behavior and nature. When Cisneros describes the places where the protagonists have lived in, the picture that comes to the mind is that person is from a humble background. The same applies to Sherman's view where some of the individuals under discussion in his book have to answer certain questions for their selfness to be uncovered. Therefore, history explains the biggest part of the individual's behavior which is a key to understanding the distinctive features of the person.
Analysis of Similarities: Exploring History
The analysis of the above-mentioned similarity is that the history of two scenarios tries to unearth the uniqueness of the topic development. When Joseph tries to remind John-John of their brotherhood, it is the indication that he bases his arguments on history. Cisneros, likewise, uses the historical background of the individual in her book to bring out the inner being, who reminds about the various places where the characters have lived. That's why, history plays a significant role in defining the capability of the person because the descriptions it offers, provides the outline of the activities and relationships that someone has with their environment. The surroundings herein include people.
Contrast
The contrasting issue lies in the way the authors bring out the aspect of identity. Cisneros uses the art of describing the things that surround the characters in her book to expose their unique resourcefulness. She distinguishes the family members by the virtues of their hair (Cisneros 14). She explains that "My brothers, for example. They have got plenty to say to me and Nenny inside the house. But outside they cannot be seen talking to girls" (Cisneros16). The statement expresses the idea that boys are articulated as being talkative in the house but quiet outside it. Sherman, on the other hand, indicates the abilities of the characters in his book using stories. For instance, he says, "Hey John-John why do you got two first names?" (Sherman 42). It is an indication that a small narrative has to be told so that people can understand why John-John has two names.
Implications of Style
The implications of the styles both authors use are aimed at providing a clear illustration of the exclusiveness which belongs to the topic which is covered in the narration. The usage of the stories that pinpoint individuals help Cisneros bring out the aptitude of John-John because it is important to understand that the questions in the book Flight: A Novel are significant to learn who John-John is. Similarly, the descriptions that Cisneros offers to explain the places where the individual resides portrays the characteristic features of the person. Thus, in order to indicate the selfness, the physical appearance speaks volumes because the outward look goes hand in hand with behavior.
Conclusion
Cisneros and Sherman showcase some of the best ways to uncover the self-recognition of people by using different styles and themes to explain their theme developers. Cisneros' historical theme and physical appearance are the important aspects of uncovering the behavior of the characters in her book, thus leading to the discovery of their personalities. Sherman similarly operates history and stories to unfold the ipseities of the subject matter in his book hence the questions are aimed at the creation of the conversation that will lead to the realization of the abilities. It is, therefore, important to note that the individual capabilities can be discovered through history and manner of conduct.
Works Cited
Alexie, Sherman. Flight: A Novel. New York: Groove Press, 2007.
Cisneros, Sandra. The House on Mango Street. New York: Vintage, 2013.
