quiz 1.

1) Tsuji seems to imply that rice is not just rice to the Japanese. How does he demonstrate the importance of rice? What examples does he give? (Cite at least two.)

Tsuji demonstrates the importance of rice to the Japanese by stating that rice was used as a measure of wealth. Samurai’s were frequently paid in kokus of rice. Tsuji also states that rice in households of Japan is the staple, anything else served with it is a luxury but he also states that no matter the meal it is not complete without rice.





2) What sort of writing is the Tsuji piece? What seems to be its main purpose? What does it seek to offer the reader?

The piece by tsuji seems to be written in a descriptive and personal perspective, Descriptive in the sense that it is filled with knowledgeable facts and personal because it feels the writer has a strong connection with the subject. The main purpose of the piece seems to be informative, offering the reader information about the Japanese and their love of rice.





3) Although he is writing in the objective third person, Tsuji does seem to convey
more than just information. In your view, what sort of tone (the mood or
attitude towards his subject of rice) does he demonstrate?

Tsuji seems to convey a deep respect and love for rice.






4) Pellegrini notes a difference between the polenta Americans enjoy and the polenta consumed by the Italian peasant. How does he characterize the difference?

The polenta Americans tend to enjoy seems to be a higher class, expensive dining experience, while the Italian peasant, especially the children, look at it as a cheap filler to get you through the week. The author uses great description to differentiate the two.





5) How would you describe Pellegrini’s tone – that is, the mood or attitude he demonstrates towards his subject?

Pellegrini’s tone is very personal and often comedic. Showing how involved he is in the piece and how much the subject means to him.







6) Briefly compare and contrast the way Algren’s Michigan lumberjacks feed themselves and, say, the way the men and women on a contemporary construction site or at a military camp might eat today. What has changed? What has stayed the same, in your view?

In the piece about the lumberjacks, although written in a descriptive, narrative, it has a strong feeling of nostalgia since things aren’t normally done this way anymore. Things that have changed, in a typical construction site people either bring their own, or rely on other sources for food. The only similarities I see between then and now is the way the workers view the food. The workers view the food as quick sustenance to be eaten in haste then back to work.