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Why does Michelle feel so troubled by Patrick choosing to accept the plea bargain?  If you were a friend or family member of Patrick, what would you want him to do: take the plea bargain or go to trial?  Why?

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What do you make of Michelle's request to have Patrick write Marcus’ mother a letter immediately after he had been convicted?

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Although Baldwin’s letter to his nephew was written in 1962 and under different circumstances than those Patrick experiences, its content seems relevant to Patrick and his situation.  What is similar and why do you think Michelle wanted to share Baldwin’s letter with Patrick? (241-246)

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Michelle feels that although Patrick had come so far intellectually, she had actually done very little for him: “I didn’t mean this in the way of false modesty.  I mean that it frightens me that so little was required for him to develop intellectually – a quiet room, a pile of books, and some adult guidance.  And yet these things were rarely supplied” (253).  Do you agree with Michelle that little was required for Patrick to develop or do you feel she supplied a lot?  Explain your answer.

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How do you see the events, ideas, or themes from Chapters 9 or 10 in…

your own life,

another text (book, article, video, movie, social media post, etc.), or

society or the world as a whole?

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What is a part or quote from Chapter 9 or 10 that was either relatable, compelling, interesting, or shocking? Retell this part by paraphrasing or summarizing (indicate page #).  After, please explain why this part stood out to you.  What is your take-away from your chosen part?

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The idea of a common book—a private notebook in which you compile offers, song lyrics, book extracts, and other information that interests or motivates you—is presented in Brianna Schubert's article. In an effort to help people slow down and concentrate on what really matters in the middle of the continual barrage of information we encounter on a daily basis, this ancient technique is making a resurgence. Schubert talks about how she used a commonplace book to find inspiration for her writing and introspection. She gives tips on how to get one started and suggests various formats, like content categories or themes. The solution is to carry the book around and develop the practice of adding to it on a regular basis, which will eventually turn it into a useful tool for reflection and ideas.

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I feel great comfort when I read Chapter 10. I can deeply resonate with the poems that Patrick and Michelle were working on, especially the one by W. S. Merwin, To Paula in Late Spring, which they recited at their last meeting in jail. The quote of Baldwin's letter also touches me gently: "You must accept them and accept them with love". (page 244) I have just experienced a significant loss in my life. These poems and letters, which are written with wisdom and tenderness, help to ease my pain.

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Patrick's choice to take the plea deal disturbs Michelle Kuo as she knows the criminal justice system is sometimes harsh to young Black men much like him. She fears Patrick is being under pressure to accept a contract that might not be in his best interest rather than making a free will decision. Though she understands that attending a trial could be dangerous, she also thinks Patrick deserves a fair opportunity to defend himself. Her dissatisfaction stems from the way the system is designed to make it challenging for those like Patrick to pursue actual justice.
If I were Patrick's friend, I would support him no matter the decision he takes. Only he is aware of what is best for him; it is his life. Even if he thinks he has a strong case, entering a guilty plea includes compromising even if the plea bargain offers a better expected result. Attending a trial, on the other hand, carries danger and can lead to a higher sentence. Both choices present difficulties; as a friend, my job would be to support him, let him know he is not alone, and avoid pushing him in either direction. I would be there to help him, whatever his decision.

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Michelle feels deeply troubled by Patrick accepting the plea bargain because she understands the long-term consequences it will have on his life. As she reflects, “When Patrick got out, he would have a criminal record. He would be marked as a felon; he’d have trouble getting a job; he would look at himself differently for the rest of his life”​. This illustrates the harsh reality that even though the plea deal reduced his sentence, it permanently altered his future.

If I were a family member of Patrick, I would hope that he pleads guilty but with legal guidance to secure the lightest possible charge. This situation is not solely Patrick’s fault—factors such as racial bias, lack of legal awareness all played a role in his conviction​. Instead of simply accepting a conviction without resistance, I would want a fair trial where the defense argues for his background and circumstances to be considered, ensuring the judge treats him with fairness and respect.

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Michelle feels complicated right after Patrick is found guilty. She criticizes the trial that is still racist and formalistic in a court that should be fair and just, and she mourns Patrick's situation where he was sentenced to a greater sentence than the crime he committed. Michelle had Patrick write a letter to Marcus's mother probably because she hoped that Patrick, who would live his whole life being branded a murderer and a criminal, would be forgiven and free from the guilt, even if a little. Patrick was eventually found guilty in a situation where the judge, lawyer, and family, including Patrick himself did not want to bring up the case again. Michelle must have hoped that Patrick would be able to look back on the accident once more and properly conclude it on his own.

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Michelle was troubled by Patrick’s decision to accept the plea bargain because it highlighted the systemic inequalities within the legal system. As a young Black man, Patrick faced limited options and was pressured into a decision that may not have been entirely fair. Michelle also saw his intellectual growth through reading and felt disheartened that he was being reduced to just another case in the system.

If I were a friend or family member of Patrick, I would struggle with this decision. On one hand, taking the plea bargain could mean a shorter sentence and a quicker chance to rebuild his life. However, as Jaehwan mentioned, accepting the deal would leave him with a criminal record, which could have long-term consequences for his future opportunities. If Patrick believed he had a chance to win at trial, I would encourage him to fight for his innocence. However, given the systemic biases he faces, the risk might be too great. Ultimately, this decision reflects a much deeper issue in the justice system one that forces many young Black men into impossible choices.

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Michelle’s request for Patrick to write a letter to Marcus’ mother right after his conviction is well-intentioned but poorly timed. She likely wanted him to reflect on his actions and express remorse, helping him take responsibility. However, Patrick was likely overwhelmed with emotions fear, regret, and uncertainty making it difficult for him to write sincerely. Forcing him to do so immediately could have made the letter feel insincere rather than a true act of accountability. While Michelle’s approach aligns with her belief in reflection and education, it may not have considered Patrick’s emotional readiness in that moment.

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To her, Patrick is far more than just a case number—he is a person with immense potential and inherent worth. She sees beyond his immediate legal struggles, focusing instead on his growth, his future, and his right to fair treatment. Her concern reflects both her care for Patrick and her commitment to social justice.

If I were Patrick's friend or family member, I would want him to make the choice that best serves his future. If the plea deal allows him to regain his freedom sooner, rebuild his life, and avoid more severe consequences, I would support him in taking this path. At the same time, I would encourage him to view this experience not as an end but as an opportunity for growth. No matter what decision he makes, his value is not defined by this moment. He still has the ability to learn, grow, and create a meaningful future for himself.

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James Baldwin’s letter to his nephew in The Fire Next Time speaks about systemic racism of Black men in America. Although written in 1962, its message remains relevant to Patrick’s situation because both Baldwin’s nephew and Patrick face a society that limits their opportunities and treats them unfairly due to their race and background. Baldwin warns his nephew that the world is designed to make him feel inferior, just as Patrick is experiencing in the criminal justice system, where he is pressured into accepting guilt rather than being given a fair chance. Michelle likely wanted to share Baldwin’s letter with Patrick to help him see that his struggles are not just personal but part of a larger history of racial injustice. She wants him to understand that the system is working against him not because of his own failures but because of deep-rooted discrimination.

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Michelle feels troubled by Patrick accepting the plea bargain because it forces him to admit guilt, even though the justice system has failed him. She sees how the legal system pressures young Black men like Patrick into plea deals, depriving them of a fair trial. She also knows that he may face lasting consequences beyond prison, including difficulty finding work and being labeled a criminal.

If I were a friend or family member of Patrick, I would want him to carefully consider his options. Taking the plea bargain might reduce his sentence, but it also means having a criminal record. Going to trial could clear his name, but it carries the risk of a harsher sentence if he is found guilty. Ultimately, I would support whatever decision he feels is best for his future.

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Michelle shares Baldwin’s letter with Patrick because its message about systemic oppression, identity, and resilience deeply relates to his situation. Baldwin writes to his nephew about the challenges of being Black in America, explaining how society has been designed to make him feel inferior. This parallels Patrick’s experience - poverty, a flawed justice system, and a lack of resources have shaped his life. Michelle likely hopes that Baldwin’s words will help Patrick see that his struggles are not solely personal failures, but rather part of a larger societal issue. By understanding this, Patrick might gain a sense of empowerment and perspective, realizing that he is not alone in his experience.

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Michelle is haunted by Patrick's choice of taking the plea deal, for she sees it as reflective of the systemic injustices and measures that affect individuals caught up in the judicial process. Despite the possible strong case for the defense, she warns that they may felt that, for fear of much worse punishment, for lack of resources, or general mistrust of the whole process, it seriously discourages the marginalized from the idea of making open trial due process. To her, that is a failure of the system for not offering a fair shot for justice and a personal loss for Patrick in that she felt he ought to have had the chance to open the whole thing up for public consideration. If I would be a friend or family member of Patrick I would wish above all for him to go on trial; at least this offers some chance for fairer consequence or having a real basis for challenging the accusation against him. Yet I too can feel the incredible pressure and risk such a choice gives, almost making the plea deal a matter of strange-hearted realism for persons of Patrick's outlook. The situation also points toward the urgent need for systemic changes that would, all other factors held equal, ensure that defendants from any background have equal access to just defense.

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Baldwin’s letter addresses racism and the importance of hope. Patrick also deals with prejudice and unfair treatment in his life. Both Baldwin and Patrick search for dignity and self-worth. Michelle showed Baldwin’s letter to Patrick to remind him that he is not alone in facing these struggles.

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Michelle feels so troubled by Patrick choosing to accept the plea bargain, because she think it wasn't the only Patrick's fault. So that she wants that he should be given a fairer chance in the legal system. I also agree with Michelle. I believe that guilt is guilt, and a person’s environment does not change that. However, everyone deserves a fair trial and a proper judgment from a fair judge rather than simply accepting defeat.

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Michelle feels that Patrick’s intellectual growth didn’t require much just a quiet room, books, and some adult guidance. She seems to think that even though these basic things were needed, she didn’t do enough for him. However, I believe Michelle did contribute a lot to Patrick's development, even if it wasn’t always obvious.

While a quiet space and books are important, the real difference came from Michelle’s support and guidance. It’s not just about having the right resources, but also how they’re used. Michelle likely gave him emotional encouragement, motivation, and advice, which are just as important for learning. Even if the situation wasn’t perfect, Michelle played a key role in helping Patrick grow intellectually.

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James Baldwin's letter to his nephew recounts the systemic racial injustices faced by African Americans. Baldwin warned his nephew of the challenges posed by a society that sought to limit black individuals, urging him to recognize his own worth and reject the negative perceptions imposed on him.

Michelle shared this letter with Patrick, to reminde him that both Patrick and Baldwin's nephews face an environment that undervalues their potential. Patrick grew up in a ghetto neighborhood, his struggles with the education system, and his time in prison all limited his opportunities. Michelle hopes Patrick will stop dwelling on his mistakes and realize that it is more important to respect himself and realize his personal value than to change the way others see him. Get out of negativity and start learning.

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After Patrick's punishment, Michelle, who is conflicted, attacks the unjust and racist legal system. She regrets Patrick's harsh punishment, which she feels goes beyond the offense. Michelle probably thought that by asking Patrick to write a letter to Marcus's mother, she would give him a second opportunity at redemption and ease some of his guilt. Michelle wanted Patrick to find peace and introspection despite the conviction, even though no one involved ever looked into the case again.