2012-2013 AP Chiefs discussion

Peekay’s ability to change lives reminds me of the character Forrest Gump. Like Forrest, Peekay becomes a legend. Moreover, both Peekay and Forrest defy racism, and befriend the most unlikely and belittled individuals. Not only to Peekay and Forrest have common story, but they also have a common childhood. Both characters are ostracized and bullied by their classmates because they are different than the other children: Forrest because he is mentally challenged and walks funny; Peekay because he is a rooinek. Perhaps both characters would not have the same sympathy towards other minorities or races if they had not experienced a form of segregation or racism themselves. What do you think?

This may be hard to believe, but I have yet to fully watch the movie Forrest Gump, and have only seen parts of it. From what I gather, your tie between Forrest and Peekay is unique and seems fairly accurate. I agree with your thoughts that perhaps their (Peekay's and Forrest's) experiences of segregation and racism helped them gain a greater ability to show sympathy towards other minorities or races. It would be interesting to go into depth and fully compare and contrast the two characters to get a glimpse of how they are affiliated with one another.

I agree that Peekay and Forrest Gump have many of the same qualities, which does probably stem from them having a common childhood. If they had not been bullied as children, more than likely they would not have been able to achieve the same amount of empathy that they have for other minorities. The bullying allowed them to experience isolation as a "minority" and because of this, they treat others with respect because they know how terrible it feels to be ostracized. Had Peekay and Forrest not experienced this harassment, I don't think that they would have achieved such greatness and been able to inspire others with their selflessness.

I agree the the bullying that both Peekay and Forest Gump, especially in making them both selfless and inspiring. They both had the reasons for being harassed, with Forest's learning disabilities and Peekay's "hatless snake".