Question

library prompt #2
how does meeting bessie smith effect hattie? write a short paragraph that compares and contrasts hattie’s feelings during her walk home from the club with her feelings at the end of the story. cite textual evidence and use appropriate transition words to support your ideas.

Explanation:

To answer this, we analyze Hattie's emotional journey. During the walk home from the club after meeting Bessie Smith, Hattie likely feels a sense of awe and inspiration, perhaps a bit overwhelmed by the encounter. At the end of the story, her feelings might have evolved—maybe into a deeper sense of self - discovery or a more resolute determination. We would look for textual evidence, like descriptions of her thoughts, actions, or dialogue during the walk (e.g., “Her steps were light, and her mind raced with the memory of Bessie’s performance, feeling a new spark of possibility”) and at the end (e.g., “As she settled in, she knew she had been changed, ready to pursue her own dreams with new vigor”). Using transition words like “Initially” to describe the walk - home feelings and “Ultimately” for the end - of - story feelings helps structure the comparison.

Answer:

Meeting Bessie Smith has a profound impact on Hattie, transforming her emotional state. During her walk home from the club, Hattie is filled with a sense of wonder and excitement; the encounter with the iconic musician leaves her “breathless with inspiration” as she replays Bessie’s performance in her mind, her steps quickened by the new - found energy of possibility. In contrast, by the end of the story, her feelings have shifted from this initial, almost frantic enthusiasm to a more grounded and determined resolve. She realizes that “Bessie’s courage wasn’t just for the stage—it was for life,” and this understanding settles in her like a quiet fire, driving her to take action toward her own aspirations. Initially, the walk home is marked by a whirlwind of emotions tied to the thrill of the moment, but ultimately, the end of the story finds her with a steady, purpose - filled mindset, the encounter having ignited a lasting change in her sense of self and direction.