Middlesex+(Entry+11)


 * Pages 440-477**
 * Definitions, Letter to a Friend, Quote Lines**

Bering Strait - The Strait is a passageway between Russia and Asia. Natives call the Bering Strait "Imakpik." The Bering Strait is approximately 53 miles wide with depth varying from 98 feet to 160 feet. The Bering Strait connects the Chukchi Sea with the Bering Sea. The Diomede Islands are directly in the middle of the Bering Strait; however, not many people live on the islands. The Russian and American sides are 1 mile apart on the island. This means that the Russian side is generally 21 hours ahead of the American side. []
 * Definitions**

Hepatitis - Hepatitis is a medical condition defined by the inflammation of the liver and characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells in the tissue of the organ. The disease can be self-limiting and may result in fibrosis and cirrhosis. Hepatitis often leads to jaundice, anorexia, and malaise. Hepatitis is acute when it lasts less than six months and chronic when it lasts longer. Hepatitis can be caused by toxins in alcohol and certain medications. Initial features of hepatitis are flu-like symptoms; however, chronic signals of hepatitis include malaise, weakness, and tiredness. []

Write a letter to a friend that you've just heard was a hermaphrodite. What would you want them to know? How would you feel towards them?
 * Question**

Dear Friend,

It is very hard for me to think that you would not tell me of your medical condition. I thought we were friends. I thought we kept no secrets from each other and I want you to know that if I had the same medical condition as you, I would have told you. I know you thought it was in your best interest, but hiding it from all of your friends is worse. I do not know what made you think we would feel any differently towards you now that we know your condition. I still think of you as a great friend and I accept you for who you are because everyone has flaws. I know you feel alone out in the world, but you need to know that your friends are here for you. Also, there are professionals that are willing to talk to people like you. Whatever you decide is best for you, I will support you. I hope you know that.

Love always, Natalie

Bob Presto becomes friends with Cal. Bob Presto says to Cal, "Can I ask you something, Cal? What are you, anyway?" (463). This quote is one of the very first times someone comes out and questions Cal about his state of being. I think that Presto's question scares Cal and he quickly gets out of the car without answering. Presto's bluntness surprises me because I never would be able to just come out and ask someone a question so offensive as that. Although Presto may not have meant the question in such a demeaning and offensive way, Cal could have taken it in a different way. This quote shows the fact that people need to watch what they say before they say it.
 * 4. Quote Lines from the Scene**