Long Division

Why does City pride himself on his ability to form long, complex sentences? How does this compare to other characters’ relationship to language? What is the novel’s overall message about the role of words and language in expressing one’s identity, resisting oppression, and healing from trauma?

Compare and contrast City’s character from Part 1 with City’s character from Part 2. How do differences in City’s cultural moment, family dynamics, or friend groups change how he sees and expresses himself in each section? What experiences and misadventures impact his self-discovery journey in each section, and why? What is the thematic significance of these differences and similarities between the two City characters?

Consider City’s relationship with Grandma in Part 1 and City’s relationship with Mama Lara in Part 2. How does City describe his grandmother in each section, and how do the characters relate to and communicate with each other? Consider also the advice City’s grandmother gives City and his response to it.