How are fantasy and/or surrealism interwoven throughout the chosen narrative, and why is it significant

Citing N.K. Jemisin’s “The City Born Great,” formulate a focused and detailed essay (an introductory
paragraph, however many body paragraphs you see fit, and a conclusion paragraph) to answer the
following question:
PROMPT:
How are fantasy and/or surrealism interwoven throughout the chosen narrative, and why is this
interplay between fantasy/surrealism and the narrative so significant? In other words, how does it help
shape and convey the story’s major themes?

Your paper should be 4-5 pages long, typed, double-spaced, and in a standard 12-point font.
Here are crucial points to keep in mind as you begin planning and writing your paper:
● Plan your essay before you begin writing. This will greatly facilitate the organization and
cohesive flow of your paper.
● Keep in mind that your essay should propose a thesis, be framed with topic sentences, and offer
analysis and textual support. Remember that it should be well-organized and grammatically
correct. Be sure to save enough time and energy to proofread your essay.

○ State a topic sentence for each body paragraph, and ensure that each paragraph flows
smoothly into the next.
○ State your thesis and three main supporting points in a clear and concise manner in
your introductory paragraph.
● Dig deeper into the referenced texts by using direct quotations and examples from the text: at
least THREE per paragraph.
● Delve into an analysis of the author’s words.
○ As always, be careful not to simply summarize what the author has to say or use the
question as a springboard for a personal response. Maintain close contact with the
specific prompt question and the specific text, and keep in mind the important
concepts and guidelines we’ve discussed thus far in class.

○ Do not simply state examples and leave them hanging. Do not simply summarize the
text; complete each thought. Ask yourself: Why is this example or quote relevant to an
answering of the prompt?
● Reference the rubrics to ensure your essay meets all listed criteria to the best of your abilities.
● Keep in mind that focus yields more depth of analysis, while too broad of a viewpoint creates
generalizations and shallow points.
● Do not simply restate what was discussed in class. Further analyze what we discussed, and
develop new viewpoints with greater detail.