Question

in \this is what it means to say phoenix, arizona,\ how does author sherman alexie use the character of thomas to convey one of the story’s themes?
by depicting thomas as less intelligent than victor, alexie shows that even the best storytellers do not always understand the full meaning of the tales they tell.
the mistreatment that thomas endures on the reservation lets alexie suggest that storytelling is a dangerous practice that should be avoided when possible.
by showing that thomas does not have a job or a family, alexie demonstrates that people who spend their time wrapped up in stories are likely to be unprepared for the struggles of real life.
the stories that thomas tells and his desire to be listened to allow alexie to show that telling and listening to stories is an important way people shape and understand their lives.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Depicting Thomas as less intelligent than Victor to show best storytellers aren't always smart misinterprets the story's theme about storytelling's role in shaping lives, not comparing intelligence.
• Option 2: Suggesting storytelling is dangerous is incorrect; the story emphasizes its importance, not danger.
• Option 3: Showing Thomas without job/family to depict unpreparedness for struggles is not the focus. The story highlights storytelling's impact, not his life circumstances.
• Option 4: The story emphasizes Thomas's desire to tell and be listened to, showing storytelling/listening to stories shapes lives, which aligns with the theme of "This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona" about the power of stories in Native American culture and personal identity.

Answer:

The stories that Thomas tells and his desire to be listened to allow Alexie to show that telling and listening to stories is an important way people shape and understand their lives.