In this paper, written for English 220 by Andrew Dimond in November 1982, the author explores themes of terrorism, innocence, personalities, and relationships. The piece begins with an investigation of the character, Miro. The author discusses Miro's early life in the terrorist camp - his education and indoctrination into the mindset of terror. From Miro's own perception, however, he is a freedom fighter and a hero. Standing opposed to Miro is Ben - an orphan of another sort. Similarly indoctrinated into patriotism, Ben's entire life has been subsumed by the general's prerogatives. Both have grown into conditioned believers - in both cases 'deprived children become depriving adults.'
In this article, Mary Shaner explores two pieces - Robert Cormier's After the First Death and Peter Dickinson's The Seventh Raven. Both novels look closely at the plight of children as victims of terrorist attacks. Both books also look more deeply at teenage protagonists who are under pressure from their elders to act in a specific way. Bravery also comes into play - both perceptions of bravery and the need to be brave. Both novels offer a portrayal of terrorists as people, and both offer sympathetic characters. A central theme, shared by both books, is that of integrity, which sometimes comes at the cost of humanity.
In this student-written piece, Haddie Bratwaite reflects on the character of Miro, in After the First Death. Specifically, she explores the sympathetic side of his nature that exists in contrast to his acts as a terrorist. Beginning with a look at his early life, Bratwaite argues that survival instincts shape Miro's nascent identity - that his desire to belong supersedes the better part of his nature. She cites his 'mask-wearing' as a sign of his need to distance himself from his terrorist identity. She also discusses Miro's complicated relationship with Kate - which tap into his repressed sexual identity. The division in Miro's personality comes to a head when he decides to kill Kate in an effort to truly and finally belong. Her death cements his identity as a terrorist.
In this scholarly article, written by Hugh Agee and Eugenia Vazey, the authors explore the narrative ambiguity of After the First Death through the lens of student responses. Drawing from writing produced by his college class of English education majors, Agee and his co-author draw upon Louise Rosenblatt's transactional theory and address the personal dimension of the literary transactional experience. Specifically, they contrast the author's intention with the reader's personal response and interpretation. That is to say, where two interpretations are possible, what should hold sway - the author's plan or the reader's feelings? Agee's conclusion - the best interpretation is based on textual evidence.
In this short on-air review, Millicent Braverman shares a summary of After the First Death. Calling the piece a "chilling and sensitive suspense novel," she focuses on the character of Miro, a young freedom fighter/terrorist trying to find out who he is amid a fraught and terrifying hostage situation. She closes by mentioning her opinion that the book is action-packed and psychologically disturbing.
Robert Cormier's letter to Mrs. Anti
Robert Cormier's response to Mrs. Anti's class
Mrs. Anti's Class Project "Hallowell Highlights"
David Key letter to Robert Cormier
Denise Concheri letter to Robert Cormier
Jamie Argento letter to Robert Cormier
Kimberly Dawes letter to Robert Cormier
Kristi Kozak letter to Robert Cormier
Kristin Doton letter to Robert Cormier
Michael Ryan letter to Robert Cormier
Mrs. Barbara Anti letter to Robert Cormier
Pamela Carpenter letter to Robert Cormier
Rachel Flynn letter to Robert Cormier
Stephanie Synder letter to Robert CormierThis seven-page draft of a section of We All Fall Down includes many pencil edits. The draft opens with the scene at the mall and the remarks on the crowds. Lines about teenagers and older people are crossed out. The piece continues with the Avenger considering where the Trashers will be found, and patrolling the mall in search of them. Then, the Avenger spots Jane and shares his memories/fantasies of her. Pencil edits make more clear how thinking about Jane makes the Avenger feel relieved and sad. The draft closes with the Avenger's determined thoughts of enacting justice.