The Treasure of Lemon Brown Flashcards

Study Notes

Conflicts

External conflicts include Greg struggling with bad math grades, leading to tension with his dad.
Greg seeks shelter from rain in an abandoned house, where he encounters Lemon Brown.
Lemon faces threats from street gangs trying to steal his treasure.
Internal conflicts highlight Lemon Brown's grief over his wife's and son's death, as well as Greg's desire to play basketball despite his academic challenges.

Greg's Dad

Greg's dad views him as his greatest treasure, prioritizing his education to prevent Greg from facing similar hardships.
The father's care stems from his own lack of education and aspirations for Greg's future.

Climax

Lemon Brown gave his son a harmonica and newspaper clips before he went to war, symbolizing love and remembrance.
The significance of personal treasures is emphasized, suggesting that a child's love is a parent's most valued possession.

Lemon Brown's Background

Once famous for his singing voice, Lemon lost his talent and livelihood after the death of his family.
His descent into homelessness reflects the deep impact of loss on a person's life and identity.

Falling Action

Lemon mistakenly mentions a move to St. Louis while remaining in the abandoned house.
Greg's realization of being his father's treasure marks his character development from resentment to understanding and appreciation.

Setting

The story unfolds in Harlem, New York, with an initially dark, stormy atmosphere mirroring Greg's mood.
The weather serves as a narrative device, influencing Greg's decisions and emotional journey.

Theme

Central theme explores the concept that every man has a treasure, embodied in the relationship between Greg and his dad.
Readers learn that perceived unfairness can stem from love and concern.

Figurative Language

Vivid descriptions, such as "angry swirling clouds," reflect Greg's emotional state.
Comparisons between Greg's feelings and elements of nature amplify the emotional depth of the narrative.

Blues

Blues music, characterized by its melancholy and slow tempo, gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s.
Notable blues artists include Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and B.B. King, with origins traced back to Africa.
Contemporary connections to blues reflect modern students' feelings about academic pressure.

My Treasures

Personal treasures encompass family support in sports and academics, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and guidance.
Acknowledgment of parental influence highlights shared experiences in sports, fostering deeper understanding and connection.

Description

Explore the themes and conflicts in Walter Dean Myers' story 'The Treasure of Lemon Brown' through this set of flashcards. Understand both external and internal conflicts faced by the characters, including the struggles against nature and societal challenges. Perfect for studying key concepts and character development.