“Last Night of the World” and “The Persistence of Memory”

“Last Night of the World” and “The Persistence of Memory”

1. INTRO PARAGRAPH
   1. Two pieces of literature that highlight the theme: meaning of life, while using characters to demonstrate the importance of memories.
   2. Thesis statement:
      1. Ray Bradbury’s “Last Night of the World” and Rachel L. Bowen’s “The Persistence of Memory” highlights the theme of meaning of life. Both authors use characters to demonstrate the importance of memories and the effect it can have when accepting death. Bradbury was able to portray characters who appreciated the moments, both past and current, while Bowden’s character longed for his childhood.[unique_solution]

1. BODY
   1. Both have a sense of acceptance in the unknown
      1. Last night shows the family appreciating their everyday lives one last time
      2. Memory shows Lee appreciating a memory before he loses consciousness
   2. Both end not knowing what actually happened
      1. The family knows this is their last night together
      2. Lee doesn’t know if he will go to sleep or ever wake up
   3. Both are science fiction
      1. Last night highlights a sort of apocalyptic tale
      2. Memory speaks of space
   4. Both show appreciation in the small things
      1. Lee is remembering fondly his childhood friend
      2. The husband and wife are spending time with their girls and taking in what they have.

• CONCLUSION
  1. Wrap up introduction and Body, tie together thesis