Mockingbird Motif.

While I was doing the summer assignment, I didn't have any idea what the word motif really meant, and even after writing the definition for it, I was still pretty unclear as to what it really was. By definition motif is; a recurring theme in a novel that helps a book progress or get across a message more easily. While reading; To Kill a Mockingbird, I got a much better understanding of what it means, mostly due to the Mockingbird Motif throughout the novel. It seems to run the plot and motivate the themes of the book which were; . I understood the motif exceptionally well in this book because the different themes in the book were tied together with the motif.

It is referred to the most with Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. These two characters are known to be innocent and fragile just like a mockingbird. It would be a sin to kill them, which is where the title of the book comes from. Tom Robinson was respectful and eager to help Mayella and ended up being accused of her rape. Although it was completely obvious that he was innocent, the jury found him guilty because of his race. Toms theme obviously represents racism. The entire book is based on the fact that 'whites are better than blacks'. Boo Radley lived a secluded life in his house, although Jem and Scout were always curious to find out more about him. He never did anything bad to anyone and was continuously oppressed by his brother Nathan. Boo exemplifies the theme of loss of innocence. At the start he seems to be this quite person and ends up murdering Bob Ewell at the end.

Life Lesson.

When walking through a toy or candy store, it is virtually impossible for a small child to get through without wanting something inside. Although at that age, I thought that rather than just wanting it, I needed it. My parents would continuously tell me that there is a large different between a need and a want, although being the stubborn kid I was, I wouldn't ever give it up. I would see something in the store that caught my eye and I demanded it. I NEEDED it. I would go over every reason in the book as to why I needed it and how detrimental it would be if I did not get it. My parents could have easily purchased me these gifts, however I am now glad that they did not enable my behavior no matter how much of a fit I would throw.

Now when I look at purchasing at item that I think I need, or just really want, I try to ask myself if this is actually an essential. I try to consider if there are cheaper alternatives or if this is something I will continue to use, or just get tired of it after using it only a few times. Although I have been taught many 'life lessons' through out my life, I think this one will stick with me forever and I will always hear my dad's voice in my head asking if I really need it or if I just want it.


-Mariah. :]