“Never give up, and be confident in what you do. There may be tough times, but the difficulties which gave you face will make you more determined to achieve your objectives and to win against all odds.” This was what women’s Brazilian soccer star Marta once advised. Never giving up may sound like a goal that is impossible to reach in reality. Although that may be true, in literature there are characters who exhibit it ideally. For instance, Joan Bauer’s short story “A Letter from the Fringe” introduces a figure who showcases these traits. On a somber day, Dana, the protagonist, a high school student at Bronley High was tormented by bullies alongside her friend Sally for being overweight. Although, it seemed as if her heart had been torn out and thrown to the side, she was capable of forcing the two tyrants to flee. Afterwards, she insisted that they had no right to…
These two adolescents are similar to the everyday bullies in our own lives, due to their demeanor to make others’ lives miserable and sorrowful. A similar scenario is indicated in “A Letter from the Fringe” where Doug insinuates, “‘What have you got, Sals, about 30 pounds to lose? More?’” (36). This insult Doug Booker directs towards Dana’s friend Sally ignites a fire within her that isn’t ordinarily characterized towards her personality. This can be seen, when Dana retaliates with the phrase, “‘Get lost, Booker,’” (36). Even though, Doug only takes the demand as a joke by answering snottily, “‘Now, how can I get lost in school?’” (36) Dana knew she had to get the two persecutors away from her despaired friend Sally. At the start, Dana is a protective and gallant figure for other kids being teased by harassers such as Doug Booker. After witnessing Sally ball her eyes out to being referred to as overweight, Dana realizes she has to try and prevent something like this from…
