If we were president, you can be sure that we'd make a few changes—mandatory kitten ownership high among them. But that's nothing compared to what Meridian would do if she got elected. In Meridian, we follow our titular character as she struggles to do her part during the Civil Rights Movement. Sometimes her actions end up causing more harm than good. Sometimes she ends up just hurting herself. But, more often than not, Meridian is able to get regular folks involved with politics for one simple reasons—she treats everyone as equals. You say you want a revolution? Well, following Meridian's lead is as good a start as any.
Questions About Politics
- What are the similarities/differences between Truman's and Meridian's political ideologies?
- How is Meridian able to be a successful activist even where others fail?
- Why does the Movement fall apart?
- Is voting a powerful political statement? Why or why not?
Chew on This
Unlike politicians, Meridian is able to earn the trust of poor and disadvantaged communities because she is willing to suffer alongside them.
Truman falls into to the same political pitfall that many artists do—he is too busy focusing on his own uniqueness to sacrifice himself (as Meridian does) for the good of his community.