In "Taken by Surprise" by Edward I. Maxwell, What are some of the different themes you identified in the passage? Cite evidence from the passage showing how these themes were developed.
In "Taken by Surprise" by Edward I. Maxwell, a variety of themes can be identified. Some of these themes include the unpredictability of life, the impact of technology, and the importance of adapting to change. The following evidence from the passage demonstrates how these themes were developed.
1. Unpredictability of life:
- "It was the ultimate irony that both young men had a falling-out with their fathers before they all vanished together on that fateful day" - This sentence highlights how life can take unexpected turns, emphasizing the unpredictability of relationships and events.
- "As it turned out, that would be the last time they would see each other." - This statement underscores the unpredictability of life, as the characters are unaware of the tragic events that will follow.
2. Impact of technology:
- "Ever since his father had acquired that new camera, he had become obsessed with photography, capturing moments that would otherwise be forgotten." - This sentence suggests that technology has a significant impact on the character's life, encouraging his obsession with preserving memories.
- "In just a few minutes, a video call could connect two people on opposite sides of the world, making distance seem negligible." - This sentence highlights how advanced technology can bridge geographical gaps, emphasizing the impact of technology on communication and relationships.
3. Importance of adapting to change:
- "Both of them sensed that they were entering a new phase of their lives, one that would be filled with uncertainty and change." - This statement implies that the characters are aware of the need to adapt to forthcoming changes, highlighting the importance of being flexible in the face of uncertainty.
- "They had no choice but to grow up quickly and learn to fend for themselves in an unfamiliar world." - This sentence underscores the characters' realization that adapting to their new circumstances is necessary for survival, emphasizing the importance of being resilient and adaptable.
Overall, these themes contribute to the overall development of the passage, providing insights into the characters' experiences and challenges.