Essay Questions

What is the metaphorical meaning of the essay’s title ‘Dead Man Laughing’?

The 'Dead Man Laughing' essay title is metaphoric because it means humor. The author recalls what made his father laugh while alive and he goes forward to explain his enthusiasm. According to the author, his father was a big fan of entertainment because he describes him as a comedy geek. As the reader explores the essay, he gets a grip on what made the author's father laugh more often. The author’s father embraced comedy tightly so that he could not get bored with the dark side of life.

What is the significance of the essay ‘Speaking in Tongues’?

This essay is critical because it aids the reader to understand the tactics of winning listeners' attention. A successful speaker must take into consideration the primary interest of his listeners. The expectation of readers can only be met when the speaker uses multiple voices with the ability to satisfy what the listener wants to hear. Therefore, those speakers who are tactical enough to gear their voices towards the interests of the readers are the ones who are likely to succeed faster.

What is the overall significance of Zadie Smith's authorial role in Changing My Mind?

Zadie is the author of the collection of essays in the Changing My Mind: Occasional. She introduces herself to the reader as the book begins in which she is handed ‘Zora Neale Huston’s Landmark’ novel to read. Zadie enlightens the reader on the significance of reading her essays not only for entertainment but to acquire knowledge. Zadie first mentions herself in the essay,’Their Eyes were Watching God: What Does the Soulful Mean?”