Think About
- George Dawson recalls his caution in his dealings with
white people as he grew up in the Jim Crow South. Are
there ways in which minorities and women must still be
cautious in their interactions in society?
- What factors may have contributed to Dawson's long life
span?
- In Chapter 1, Dawson's father tells him, “You have no right
to judge another human being. Don't you ever forget.” How does this advice affect George's life?
- How does Dawson cope with his illiteracy? How might his
life have been different if he'd had the opportunity to go to
school as a child?
- Dawson faces hardships and injustice, and he never
has much money, yet he still leads a successful life. Did
he also have some advantages? Was he “rich” in other
ways? How does he define “success?” How do you?
- Why do you think students in the adult education
program are so drawn to Dawson?
- In Chapter 20, Dawson says “I had to work all those
years, but I was glad to work. A man is supposed to work
and take pride in what he does no matter what the work
is.” How has the work ethic changed over the years?
- In Chapter 24, Dawson says, “There are some parents
these days that are growing children, not raising children.” What does he mean by this? Do you agree with him?
- Given that Dawson's life was limited by racism and
poverty, it would be understandable if he were bitter about
lost opportunities. However, he chose not to feel bitter
and instead adopted a willed optimism. How did Dawson's
attitude affect his life?
- Have you ever thought of writing a book? If you did, what
would be your message?