HUM FPX 1150 Assessment 2

Comparative Analysis and Reflection

The selected literature for analysis is the short story/poem “Gate A-4,” written by Naomi Shihab Nye. Born in 1952 to an American mother and a Palestinian father, Nye weaves her mixed cultural heritage into creating her literature. As noted by the Academy of American Poets (n.d.), Nye’s poetry is informed by her Arab American heritage, where themes of peace and heritage are taken in conjunction with a powerful humanitarian bent. This examination seeks to explore the story and underlying meaning of Nye’s “Gate A-4.”

Gate A-4

“Gate A-4” tells the story of a woman’s flight from an Albuquerque airport to El Paso, Texas. Waiting for her flight, a public address requesting Arabic speakers at Gate A-4 inspires her to move forward. She finds there a distraught woman dressed in old-fashioned Palestinian clothes. The protagonist, who can speak Arabic, consoles her and tells her about a flight delay due to a medical procedure the Palestinian woman needs. In an instant, there is a connection between the two, and the protagonist remains with her, sharing homemade mamool cookies. The narrative becomes a poem, emphasizing the acts of kindness, sharing of snacks, and a bond among diverse women at the gate.

HUM FPX 1150 Assessment 2 Comparative Analysis and Reflection

Cultural Values

Nye masterfully interweaves values from different cultures including language, food, and traditions into “Gate A-4.” Language is brought out as an important factor since the language barrier initially brings about distress before another woman intervenes to translate. The sharing of mamool cookies illustrates the uniting power of food, highlighting its capability to create bonds despite cultural differences. In addition, Nye brings out the tradition of having a plant as a representation of remaining connected to one’s roots and traditions.

Cultural Perspective

On a personal note, this story is relatable to my life having been raised in a multicultural family. Like the Palestinian woman in the story, my grandmother faced language difficulties, and seeing a stranger offer help brings about a sense of familiarity and comfort. The shared act of food, which is reminiscent of my family gatherings, highlights the common role of food in bringing people together from different backgrounds.