English 102
Written Communication II
Fall 2000 
Professor David A. Salomon (davidsalomon@bhsu.edu) 
Essay #2

Choose ONE and only one of the following questions. Answer it in a complete and thoughtful
essay. Your essay should be a well-developed, clear, logical and complete idea developed from a
definite thesis statement. Use the text in all instances to support your answer, but do not merely
summarize plot. Refer to specifics in the text. Your paper should be 4-6 pages in length.

Essays must be either typed on a typewriter or printed from a computer. This paper is due on
Monday, November 6. Papers handed in late will receive a one grade deduction for each
day/class late. I will be happy to look at drafts. In fact, I encourage you to come in with a draft
and/or send e-mail with questions.

Read the questions carefully. Support all answers with examples from the text.

     1) There are many similarities when one compares Bellow's Seize the Day with McInerney's
     Bright Lights, Big City. Choose three distinct characteristics with which to compare the
     two main characters, and explain why you think those three characteristics are exemplary.

     2) The final chapter in Bright Lights, Big City is saturated with religious imagery. Discuss the
     importance of water and bread as religious symbols in the final chapter of the novel.

3) Discuss the presence (or not) of the carpe diem theme in Bright Lights, Big City.