For this blog, let's have some creative fun again. Just like you did in a Fiction Blog 2B, this time, write a letter of advice from one of the characters from a play we've read to another character in a different play that we've read. Address the letter with Dear [fill in the blank], so we know which character you're addressing, and end with some sign off, like Best wishes, [fill in the blank], so we know which character you're writing in the voice of. The letters you wrote for that fiction blog amazed me for how creative and developed they were and for the deep understanding you all showed for the characters you chose -- of both the letter writer and the recipient. These blogs are some of my favorite to read!
Have fun with this one! Due Sunday, May
19, at midnight
Dear Beneatha Younger,
ReplyDeleteHow are you? I hope you are doing fantastic! I heard that you wanted to get married and move to Africa to be able to connect with your African heritage and practice being a doctor there. Those are some big girl steps!
I am writing this letter to tell you never to stop having dreams and goals and to dream big! You are one person I admire. I see and understand your hopes and dreams since you reminded me of myself when I was younger, always out and about, not caring about anyone, and very cheerful. I, just like you, had some big dreams, but I could not accomplish them due to my living circumstances. The gender roles for me and many women are very harsh. You are fortunate to have the right and will to do stuff; don't forget that. Despite the similarities in our personalities, I could not do what you can. That is due to social constraints, so go along and do what your heart desires. Marriage is a big decision, so choose wisely and pick someone who is not there to change you but to be with you in every step. I can't wait to see you become the best doctor out there.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Wright
Dear Lena (aka mama)
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about you have the family more recently
I miss our Sunday dinners and one on one time
but more importantly I miss Big Walter :(
ever since you've guys moved out the South
I had more time to think about how I want to
pursue the American dream as well as you
know I am pretty passionate about sales
so maybe I'll look into that...anyway, please
send my love to the family, I hope to see you
guys soon?
With love,
Willy <3....
Dear Mrs.Peters
ReplyDeleteThere are a lot of things to remember when it comes to being a woman. You’re doing great but here’s some advice. Don’t worry so much about what the men think and say, they are who they are and will always be critical towards women, it’s how they were raised. Lastly, you think what you think and say it. All the people will respect you and listen to you if you speak your mind and dont let anyone walk all over you.
Love,
Lena (mama)
Dear Mrs. Hale,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are well. I am Willy Loman, a salesman who has faced many struggles. I recently learned about your involvement in the Wright case and felt a connection to you. I think that we both can relate to the pressures of society and the silent battles we fight.
Your empathy for Mrs. Wright related to me on a whole new level. I, too, have felt the crushing weight of expectations and the sadness of not meeting them. You stood by Mrs. Wright when others couldn't see her pain, much like how I've felt unseen in my own life. In my world, women like my wife Linda often go unnoticed despite their sacrifices. Your actions show the strength women can offer each other. You noticed the small details that revealed Mrs. Wright's reality, just as I often missed the important details in my own hunt for success and identity.
My advice to you is to keep being compassionate and strong. The world needs your ability to see the truth and act on it. Don't let societal expectations weigh you down as they did to me. Your empathy and determination make a real difference. Stand firm in your beliefs and continue to support those who need a voice. People like you make the world a better place.
Best wishes,
Willy Loman
Dear Willy
ReplyDeleteMe and the family miss you so much!
We just got enough money to get us a better house! How great is that?
I dont hear to much from you lately... makes me pretty sad
Just know I love you and the whole family loves you too
This is our second letter trying to reach out to you... I just hope that your ok.
You know I'm here if you need anything ok?
I hope the Salesman life is treating you well
Please reasoned when you get this
With love
Lena(Mama)
Beneatha,
ReplyDeleteI have heard from your mother that you are an aspiring doctor! What an excellent thing! Congratulations, too, on your upcoming marriage.
Though difficult, I remind you to never lower your standards nor dream any less than you do now. My biggest regret is allowing those around me to be unhappy. I hope I can inspire you to lead a happy life.
Recently, my dear friend, Minnie, and I have rekindled our friendship. We both are amazed by your determination in a world where women are in a constant state of struggle against society's standards. Thank you for inspiring us women!
If you ever need someone to talk to, please reach out to me. It is a scary thing to be alone, as I have realized recently. Let's support each other as best as we can!
Best wishes,
Mrs. Hale
Dear Mrs. Wright,
ReplyDeleteI haven’t heard from you in quite some time now. In your last letter, two weeks ago, you mentioned how you found a songbird! We have so many pests in this raggedy old apartment already, I can’t imagine keeping something like that in the house with your own will. But I suppose it’s not the same as the rats we have here. At least you have something that brings you happiness again.
I know you told me not to make a big fuss about it but...is your husband still being rough on you? I can’t help but be worried, who knows what that man is capable of. Now I know if Walter ever put his hands on me, they’d have to put me in prison for what I’d do to him! I just want you to take care of yourself. Maybe you can go over to your neighbor's house, have some fun, it would do you some good!
Walter and I got into another fight today. He’s driving me crazy with all this talk about money! I just hope he doesn’t do anything stupid. And... I have some big news...I’m pregnant. Walter doesn't know yet; I just don’t know how to tell him. With this insurance check coming, I feel like he’s changed; I know he just wants to take care of his family, but this isn’t the man I fell in love with...I don’t know. And I know I’ve said this before, but you’re welcome to come stay with us, I don’t care how crowded it is already, I just want you safe. Take care and talk to you again soon hopefully!
Best wishes,
Ruth
Dear Benetha,
ReplyDeleteHow are you? I’m doing well. How is Africa? I bet it is beautiful. Anyway, I was just writing to see how you were doing and congratulate you on your recent marriage to Jay Asagai! I hope the married life is treating you both well. I was hoping to give you some advice. Ever since Bill and I got married the bell has stopped ringing! We were so relieved! Communicating is easier, our arguments have been down, and we have been a lot happier. What I wanted to say is that marriage is about listening to each other and sharing interests. When I first met Bill, we were constantly interrupted by that annoying bell, but as soon as we started listening to each other more it stopped. Now we're on our way to another film festival! Marriage is an amazing thing, just remember to listen to your partner and try new adventures. You’d be amazed at what you guys find out about each other!
Best Wishes!
-Betty
Dear Walter,
ReplyDeleteI am writing you this letter in the hope of imparting some advice that I think will be to your advantage as you set out to conquer the business world. As you know, I have been a top salesman at my company for over thirty years, so I know a thing or two about how to become a success. First of all, make sure you are well-liked, and that everyone knows your name. I’m known all across the New England sales industry, I don’t even need to make appointments these days, doors just open wherever I go! I imagine that one day when I am gone, people will travel from miles around to pay their respects! Then my son, Biff, will finally see what a success his old man is, and that he is a Loman, destined for success also! That’s another thing; some men, like us, are destined for greatness. Not everyone around you will be able to see it, but you don’t need listen to them, because, men like us, we know better! Not even your family, don’t let anyone tell you different. Someday, you will make them see, just like I will. Your Mama may not understand your dreams for the liquor store, but don’t let that deter you. You mustn’t let family hold you back. Even if it seems like it’s falling apart around you, you must keep pressing on. A man is nothing without success!
Sincerely,
Willy Loman
Dear Lena (Mama),
ReplyDeleteHow've ya been these days? I don't think we've spoken since you received all that money from Mr. Younger... may his soul rest in peace. I heard through the grapevine that that money situation put a lot of stress on your family, so I'm really just trying to check in on ya. I wonder if you've heard the news regarding my situation... no probably not. I wouldn't want to concern ya though, I just had to make a change in living situation, that's all. How's the kids? Walter still being a pain in the you know what? Did Beneatha ever get into medical school? Oh I hope she did... she was always so bright that girl. My family, oh same old, nothin to worry about. Ya know, I wish I had a family to care about like you do, you do so good at it. I had a bird for a little while, me and my husband are on the outs... but again, nothin to be concerned about. Do you still go to church? Oh what am I saying, of course ya do! Anyways, I hope this letter finds you well and I hope all is well for ya.
Best wishes,
Minnie Wright.
Dear Beneatha,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your upcoming marriage! I have also heard that you are aspiring to be a doctor. Your determination and ambition remind me of my own as a salesman. We both are fighting hard to earn our place in life as we face many challenges. The pursuit of our dreams is not easy, but you must keep pushing to achieve them, because in the end, it will all be worth it. We are both fighting for our American dream, refusing to let anybody stand in our way. Keep on giving your dream your all!
Best Wishes,
Willy Loman
Dear Bill,
ReplyDeleteI hope this letter finds you well. I was wanting to write you some helpful advice because I had some understanding that your world, much like mine, involves the nuances of communication and the importance of understanding each other. I wanna tell you to listen beyond what people are saying. Theres more meaning, and often, the most significant truths are found in small details, you know the small things people dismiss. Pay attention to the subtle clues and unspoken words because maybe sometimes the real message isn't being whats said.
I also wanna tell you too is to attempt to be open to change and seek genuine connections around you. Open yourself up to truly knowing and being present with others.
Hope your doing well! Best wishes,
Mrs. Wright
Dear Walter. Hey, look Walter I…I’m sorry man, Sorry to hear about your father. I just want to send you my condolences, the loss of your father must be devastating. Listen, I’m sure you’ve been getting a lot of these letters and I, well I just thought maybe hearing it from a man who lost his father might help. I thought when I lost my old man, I thought I knew nothing about him, but now I realize I knew him better than he knew himself. When you lose your father, you lose a part of yourself. A good father leaves his son the opportunities to be better than his father ever was, your father was a good man Walter, he knew who he was. I truly am sorry for your loss Walter; I wish you and your family the very best.
ReplyDeleteYour father was a good man, a great man.
- Biff Loman
Dear Bill,
ReplyDeleteHey man, how’s it going? I know you have been trying your best on dates recently, and you’ve expressed how you have said the wrong thing many times. Now take my word for it, many of the things you say may not go very well, but don’t stress too much about it. Now don’t get me wrong, I have definitely had my fair share of “wrong” sayings, just ask my wife Ruth. However, we are married, so something must have worked. All I am saying is don’t beat yourself up too much for saying the “wrong” thing, just be yourself man.
Best wishes,
Walter Lee Younger
Dear Beneatha,
ReplyDeleteI heard you're getting married soon and guess what, so am I! His name is Bill. At first I was a little hesitant, but once we started talking it’s like we were meant to be! Don’t get me wrong, I understand what worries might come up with such a big event like Marriage. Even though it may seem scary though, you’ll know if you found the right person or not! Just know I’m here to talk and I can’t wait to see your dress.
Best wishes,
Betty
*I am writing this as thought it is a short period of time before the murder of John Wright*
ReplyDeleteDear Beneatha,
I am happy to hear from you, thank you for writing to me. Hearing about your life, your dreams, everything you have accomplished and everything you will accomplish fills me with joy. I can remember the times when I was full of the same color and ambition. Your desire to express yourself despite all of the binds that society and the people around you try to hold you down with, and for that I am so proud of you.
However, I am also sorry to hear of your strife, specifically about George. I must warn you, there is a reason that I am no longer the woman I once was, and that reason is the man that I married. If there is anyone who can dim your light and clip your wings, it is a man. Keep on your path charging towards independence, and be wary of any man who stands on that path. Never let the fire lit by the feminism inside of you burn out, even once you have found the right one.
My best wishes,
Minnie Wright
Dear Bill ,
ReplyDeleteIt is my hope that you are doing well as I write this letter. I knew you lived in a world of complexities and the importance of human relations, so I felt obliged to provide you some professional advice. I would first like you to listen for sounds other than spoken words. Specifically, this last example is frequently used to point out the idea that the most accurate solutions are concealed in the details that others overlook. Sometimes there is more to what you read than meets the eye, so learn like I have to read between the lines and interpret implicit or hidden meanings.
Wishing you all the best, Walter Lee Younger
Dear Betty
ReplyDeleteI hope this letter reaches you well. It's me Mrs. Peters and I wanted to reach out to you and check on how you were doing. Just recently I went through some things that were eye opening to me dealing with some difficult situation. It made me realize how important it is for us women to support each other through shared struggle.
anyways I hope to talk with you more over it maybe a meal? You can invite that new man you mentioned before anyways I look forward to hearing from you.
Warm regards
Mrs. Peters
Dear Mr. Younger,
ReplyDeleteSorry I haven't caught up recently, been trying to get Biff back into college after our "altercation." He's a good kid, but his lack of drive runs me up the wall. Reminds me of when I was fresh out of school, my whole life ahead of me, the world in my hands... those were the times, weren't they? Anyways, I'll have the money you lent me for you by this Saturday, I promise. Me and the wife are just about done paying off the home, so we'll have a bit extra money layin around. Hope the new home is treating you and the family well, I'll have to stop by if I'm in the area sometime!
Anyways, better get back on the road. These old bones ain't what they used to be I suppose. Hope to catch you some time Walter!
With luck,
- Willy Loman
Dear Willy,
ReplyDeleteI hope this letter finds you well, despite the challenges you face. I couldn't help but empathize with your struggles as I watched your story unfold. It seems we share a common thread—both of us grappling with the expectations and illusions that society imposes upon us.
In your quest for success and validation, remember not to lose sight of what truly matters. The pursuit of the American Dream can be intoxicating, but it can also blind us to the beauty of life's simpler joys. Cherish your family, Willy, for they are your anchor amidst the turbulent seas of ambition. Your sons, especially Biff, yearn not for material success but for your love and guidance.
I have learned from my own journey that true happiness cannot be bought or borrowed—it resides in the genuine connections we forge with others. Despite the setbacks and disappointments, find solace in the moments of authenticity and love that punctuate your days. Take time to reflect, Willy, and perhaps you'll discover that success is not measured solely by wealth and status, but by the impact we have on those we hold dear.
Best wishes,
Bill
Dear Bill,
ReplyDeleteI hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some advice that might help, since both of our lives involve understanding and talking with people. Try to listen not just to what people say, but also to what they don't say. Often, the most important things are in the little details that people might overlook. Pay attention to those small hints and unspoken words because the real message can be hidden there. Also, try to be open to change and make real connections with the people around you. Take the time to really know them and be present.
Hope you're doing great! Best wishes,
Mrs. Wright
Dear Willy,
ReplyDeleteI know times are hard, and believe me I understand, I live in Chicago. You know money isn't all what it used to be in your time, but the struggle doesn't change. But no matter what, you should be proud of your boys for who they are, and what they want. All the money in the world isn't going to heal the relationship between you guys. So be grateful for the love that surrounds you and it will show back. Never the less, don't worry about what people think about you, because the only opinions that should really matter are the ones that come from the people close to you.
All love,
Walter