Comments by Zahir Johnson

I like the intro and transition during the video

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:03:10 -0500

I like how they made it seem like we was there and how the music changed

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 13:48:51 -0500

like how used black and white and the music in the background

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:24:48 -0500

I like how they used the first person point of view and making the video black and white to show the past

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:14:18 -0500

I like how the video came together and they explained what happened in each scene also I like the rapping and dancing part

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:04:44 -0500

the image aligns with the character because he is a black boy that is learning more about his family and Identity. it connects with the themes because it show how much he wanted to get in the shed. also what was up with the church

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:09:03 -0500

perchance.org

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:09:03 -0500

To create a detailed and complex prompt for an image generator based on the given list, let's expand on what we have: Image Type: Start with specifying what kind of image you desire. Main Subject: You mentioned wanting to illustrate the essence of "City," a character whose traits relate to themes of love, resilience, and identity. Let's visualize him imaginatively. Background Scene: City’s context involves his friend Shalaya Crump and a book called "Long Division," as well as significant family and community connections. Details and Descriptors: Focus on traits of love, resilience, and identity that manifest in City’s actions, like his journey and revelations. Artistic Style and Composition: Choose a style that reflects the themes and composition. Here’s an expanded prompt: "An illustration of City, a determined young boy with a thoughtful expression, symbolizing love, resilience, and identity. The background reveals glimpses of his journey, with the stylized shadows of his friend Shalaya Crump and the mysterious book 'Long Division' looming nearby. He's standing at the entrance of a shed, where faint, enlightening glows peek through the cracks, representing the secrets he uncovers about his family and community. The setting transitions subtly from the faded interior of the shed to a vibrant, living tapestry of his surroundings: an old church, hinting at hidden histories, and the lively community that underscores his identity. In a semi-realistic, narrative style with whimsical lighting, weaving the past and future in a single frame." Paste this prompt at perchance.org or Magic Studio or another text-to-image generator. (The two recommended here are free and do not require you to log in.)

city

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:09:03 -0500

city traits shows the themes of love, resilience and identity. because, like his love for his friend Shalaya Crump and resilience to keep learning about the book long division and what it has to do with him and his family and community. identity shows up a lot like when city opens the shed and finding out what his grandma was hiding and the church

City

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:58:58 -0500

city traits shows the themes of love, resilience and identity. because, like his love for writing and resilience to keep learning about the book long division and what it has to do with him and his family and community. identity shows up a lot like when city opens the shed and finding out what his grandma was hiding and the church

why does city uncle say he won't get two times

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:49:27 -0500

City's uncle, Uncle Relle, is laying it out there for City about the reality of writing and making a mark. In this scene, Uncle Relle's emphasizing that writing isn't like the hustle of hip-hop where you might get a couple of chances. Nah, for young Black writers like City, it’s like a porta potty—one chance to either make a regular impact or a classic one. Uncle Relle's urging City to aim high and deliver something that stands out because he believes City won't get a second shot to make it big. It's a tough love kind of moment, trying to push City to do whatever it takes to have his voice heard in a world that doesn't always afford Black voices multiple opportunities. Uncle Relle's words reflect the high stakes and urgency in creative endeavors, especially for Black artists. There's this pressure to create something timeless because society often doesn't give Black creators the same room for errors or second chances. Uncle Relle's message is clear: City needs to make his work count the first time. It's about legacy, impact, and using that one chance wisely. Now, what else do you want to know about City, his writing journey, or the world around him? I could talk more about the role of family in his story, how writing becomes a form of resistance, or the pressures young Black creatives face. Let me know which path you want to take. Hit *Reply*, save your response, then hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and we can dive deeper into whichever topic you choose! Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

ok

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:47:49 -0500

writing something classic doesn't mean it will stick with the world

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:47:49 -0500

Yeah, it's a tough balancing act, right? We all want to leave something behind, but not everything has to be "classic" to be meaningful. In "Long Division," Uncle Relle seems to push for that idea of classic because he knows the world often doesn't give second chances to folks like City. He wants City to aim high, to not waste his shot. But at the same time, there's value in creating something honest, something real, even if it doesn't get labeled as classic. Sometimes, it's the authenticity that leaves the biggest mark. Leaving something behind doesn't always mean it has to be perfect or legendary. It's about contributing your voice to the world and being part of the conversation. It's about putting your truth out there, even if it doesn't become a bestseller or win awards. It's about connecting with people, impacting them on a personal level. That's the real legacy. It's the bits and pieces you leave with others, the way your words make them feel. That's important, too, and just as valuable as creating something deemed classic. What else would you like to explore about this? We could dive into the notion of authenticity versus perfection, the idea of legacy in storytelling, or the personal impact of writing. Let me know which path intrigues you, or if there's another aspect you're curious about. Hit *Reply* and share your thoughts! After you save your reply, hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and let's dig into what you're interested in. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

can't he leave something without it being classic

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:47:49 -0500

why does it have to be something classic

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:47:49 -0500

So, the idea of creating something "classic" is really about leaving a mark, making sure your voice sticks around long after you're gone. In "Long Division," Uncle Relle's advice to City is a lesson for all of us. It's about grabbing the opportunity to tell your story, to make it resonate, and to make it timeless. That pressure to create something lasting, something that speaks to both now and the future, is what drives a lot of us writers. We want our words to matter, to stand the test of time, even if life only gives us one shot. Uncle Relle's metaphor about writing being like a porta potty is his way of saying that each of us gets a small space and time to let our voice out. The challenge, especially for Black writers, is to make that time and space count. You gotta make sure what you create is strong enough to push through barriers, to demand attention. But it's not just about the money, it's about the legacy, about making sure your narrative is so compelling it can't be ignored. It's about harnessing your voice, knowing it won't be easy, but knowing it's necessary. Now, I'm curious, what else do you want to know about this? Maybe we can talk more about Uncle Relle's influence, the pressures of storytelling, or the importance of voice for Black writers. Let me know which path you want to take, or if there's another angle you're interested in. Hit *Reply* and share your thoughts! After you save your reply, hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and let's dive deeper into what you're curious about. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

does it matter who judges you

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:41:25 -0500

That's a deep question. At the heart of it, the reason why it matters who judges you is because judgment often shapes our self-perception and can impact the opportunities and relationships we have. In "Long Division," City is navigating a world where being judged—whether by family, peers, or society at large—can dictate so much about his future. Uncle Relle's focus on getting City comfortable with the camera is a reflection of this reality, where judgment is constant, and perception can become reality. But there's also power in deciding whose judgment you choose to value and letting go of the rest. It’s about carving a space for your own truth and standing firm in your identity. When you choose to be yourself, regardless of judgment, you're asserting control over your narrative. City faces this challenge head-on, and it’s a journey of self-discovery and resistance against those societal pressures. What are your thoughts on how judgment affects our lives? Hit *Reply* and share your perspective, then hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and we can keep unpacking this together. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

why does it matters who judge you

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:41:25 -0500

if city uncle wants him to act for the future what doesn't he want him to be himself to show that its okay to be different

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:41:25 -0500

I hear you, and that's something powerful right there. Being yourself, no matter who's watching, takes a lot of courage and self-assurance. It's like refusing to let the camera dictate your story, you know? In "Long Division," City faces that same kind of pressure from Uncle Relle, who's all about getting City to act comfortable on camera, as if it's a skill he needs for the future. But really, being genuine, being authentically you—that's a skill in itself, and it's something not everyone manages to hold onto, especially when they feel like they're being watched or judged. City's journey is about finding that balance between inner truth and outward perception. The tension between acting for the camera and staying true to oneself is something we all might feel at some point. It's about pushing back against those outside pressures and making sure our own voice shines through. What's your take on how City handles this in the book? Do you think he's able to stay true to himself despite Uncle Relle's lessons? Hit *Reply* and let me know which direction you want to explore further. Then hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and let's dive deeper into this conversation. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

if I had a camera on me I would be myself no matter what people think

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:41:25 -0500

why did city uncle record him for if he didn't want to be recorded

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:41:25 -0500

Man, Uncle Relle's recording is all about this kinda twisted reality we live in, where folks want to capture moments for some future purpose, even if it's uncomfortable. Uncle Relle's got this idea that City needs to get used to being on camera, like it's some kind of survival skill for the future. You know, the whole reality TV thing where folks act like the camera ain't there? It's about blending reality with performance, and Relle's trying to teach City to navigate that. But City just wants to be real, and here comes Uncle Relle telling him to get used to the performance. It's a weird balance between doing your own thing and being aware of how others might perceive it. Uncle Relle's advice might seem off, but it's got this layer of truth about how society pushes us to act in certain ways, even when we want to be genuine. It's like he's saying, "In this world, you gotta play the game, even if you don't want to." It's a tough lesson for City, who just wants to be himself. Uncle Relle's filming is a reminder of how the outside world can intrude on our personal space, making us aware of how we present ourselves. It's a moment where City is caught between being himself and fitting into the expectations others have for him. What do you think about the idea of having to "act" like yourself when a camera's on you? Hit *Reply* and tell me which path you want to take, and then hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and let's explore this together. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

why didn't city just do something to be remembered by

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:29:22 -0500

That's a really thoughtful question. City's decision to write a will instead of doing something grand to be remembered by is a reflection of his understanding that legacy is deeply personal. It's not always about making a big splash in the world but about the small, intimate connections and memories you create with those around you. City seems to grasp that his impact is best felt through the relationships he nurtures and the pieces of himself he shares with those he cares about. By writing a will, he's laying bare his vulnerabilities, acknowledging his mistakes, and showing love to his community in a way that's authentic to him. Sometimes, the most profound legacies aren't made by grand gestures but through the quiet, personal acts that resonate with those who truly know us. City’s will is his way of ensuring that the people in his life remember him for the connection and thoughtfulness he showed, not just for some single, memorable act. It's a testament to the narrative's focus on the importance of community, understanding, and reconciliation. What do you want to delve into next? We could explore how City’s personal connections influence his character development, maybe discuss the theme of reconciliation in greater depth, or even look at how this idea of legacy ties into the broader themes of "Long Division." Hit *Reply* and let me know where you want to go. After you save your reply, hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and let's keep digging deeper into this story. Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

if he wanted to leave something with the world why didn't he just do something people would remember him by?

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:29:22 -0500

what did city write a will for if he wasn't going to die

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:29:22 -0500

Man, that's a great question. City writing a will, even though he's not about to die, is all about exploring the weight of legacy and responsibility. It's a little bit of a twist on what you'd expect from a teenager, right? This act helps him grapple with his place in the world and the impact he wants to leave behind. It's kind of like a symbolic gesture to understand his connections and what he values. By creating this will, City is trying to reconcile his sense of self with his relationships, his regrets, and his hopes for the future. It's a reflection of his growth and his understanding that even if he's not physically leaving, he wants to make sure he's leaving something meaningful behind. Writing that will also speaks to the theme of being prepared for the unexpected. City's not just thinking about what happens if he's gone—he's contemplating how he can make things right, acknowledge the people who matter, and distribute parts of himself to those he cares about. It’s a way of confronting mortality and legacy without the finality of death. This act of writing a will becomes a metaphor for his journey of self-discovery and the desire to leave a positive mark on his world. What do you want to explore next? We can dive deeper into the symbolic nature of the objects in City's will, examine how this act reflects his maturity and growth, or discuss how it ties into the broader narrative of "Long Division." Hit *Reply* and let me know which path you're interested in. After you save your reply, hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and keep the conversation going. Let's unravel these threads together! Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

But why have city write a will

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:29:22 -0500

the author use narrative techniques to reveal the complexities of social justice and belonging in this paragraph by having city write a will to the people he know and care about

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:29:22 -0500

In this paragraph, City, the narrator, uses a unique and poignant narrative technique to explore the themes of social justice and belonging. Through the act of writing a will, City highlights the interconnectedness and value he finds in his relationships with those around him. By distributing personal items such as his Pine wave brush, mesh shorts, and vintage Walter Payton jerseys, City demonstrates an understanding of the importance of these objects to those he leaves them to, showing a thoughtful consideration of their identities and needs. This distribution isn't just about possessions; it's about ensuring that his connections with others remain even in his absence. For example, leaving his cell phone to his grandma, despite poor reception, illustrates both his affection and awareness of her needs. Similarly, leaving his essays to his Mama signifies the deep respect he holds for her contribution to his intellectual growth. Moreover, City’s will reveals his sense of social justice by acknowledging past mistakes, like dissing the Mexican girl from Arizona, and offering her his spot on a TV show. This act of contrition and acknowledgment of his own shortcomings speaks to the complexity of belonging in a world where people are often judged by their actions. His choice of recipients for his belongings reflects a desire to maintain a sense of community and right past wrongs, embodying social justice ideals by redistributing power and opportunities. The inclusion of his Uncle Relle in this list, by providing him his social media passwords, indicates trust and a bond that transcends material possessions. Through this narrative technique, City captures the nuances of belonging and justice, highlighting the importance of relationships and the impact of personal choices. Now, what do you want to know more about? We could dive into how these objects symbolize aspects of City's identity, explore the theme of redemption and forgiveness in this passage, or discuss the role of family and community in City's life. Hit *Reply* and let me know which path you want to take. After you save your reply, hit *Reply with AI*, choose me again, and ask more questions about your chosen topic. Let's make this exploration as intriguing and meaningful as possible! Please Note: Everything in this comment is AI-generated. It is made up to sound like me. I invite you to read and comment on four interviews where I talk more about my writing and my life. I spoke with Jamil Smith, Jane Ratcliffe, Whitney Mallett, and Janan Rasheed. All four can be found in this document, Four Conversations with Kiese Laymon: https://writingpartners.net/documents/2008

put those things in the shed and why theirs always something to eat in there but keep it locked up

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:12:28 -0500

this paragraph encourages readers to reflect on their identity and family connections because in this paragraph city should reflect on why his grandma would hide things from him and not let him go in the shed where his grandpa used to work also why she

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:12:28 -0500

ess around in there, knowing I was walking on the same sawdust my granddaddy walked on". these quotes show how city is reflecting on his family history and identity

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:07:56 -0500

the book encourage readers to reflect on history and family connections because it shows city reflecting on his grandpa and what he knows about the shed. in the paragraph it says "he’d make tables, chairs, and cabinets out of wood" also says "I liked to m

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:07:56 -0500

the dresser under her old wigs" also why did city's grandma keep a blade that could slice many necks? this should make people reflect on family and identity because what city grandma is hiding stuff from him but their connection is strong

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:57:02 -0500

this paragraph encourages readers to reflect on their connections to family and identities because,city grandma is hiding multiple things from him and he wants to find out in the text he says "grandma kept the key to the shed on her key chain that was on

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:57:02 -0500

letter

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:35:38 -0500

Dear Dr.Benthum I feel like Kamala should have won not trump.i was feeling down when I woke up and heard the results of the election. I don't think people of other states was thinking because why vote for somebody that was already fired from office before. Also felt disappointed but you shouldn't let this keep you down. we can still make the community better without the help of the president. so cheer up because together we can do anything no matter what. From, zahir

can you help me write a letter on how i am feeling since kamala lost to trump

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:35:38 -0500

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help you explore and express your feelings in writing. It's important to capture your thoughts, wishes, and dreams, especially during such a significant moment. Take a moment to relax. You've just asked a powerful question: how does this American decision affect you personally? You can write in response to my prompts in a *Reply* or by hitting *Add to Document*, and then adding *New Content.* First, let's start by acknowledging the feelings you've experienced since the election results. How did you feel when you first heard the news that Kamala Harris lost to Donald Trump? Write down your initial reactions and emotions, whether it's disappointment, confusion, hope, or something else entirely. Let yourself be honest and open about this moment. Would you like to move to the next step?

Walz believes we need Kamala harris leadership

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:32:28 -0400

trump helped them get closer to a nuclear weapon

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:30:40 -0400

Trump's secretaries believe he should be nowhere near the white house

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:29:46 -0400

this debate is more interesting than the other one

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:26:01 -0400

why don't respect vance

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:18:52 -0400

vance thinks kamala harris is only helping people overseas

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:15:26 -0400

did Tim Walz only cut taxes for middle class?

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:18:49 -0400

Let's dive right into your question about Tim Walz and his tax cuts. When examining Walz's tax policies, it's essential to look at the specific measures he implemented and who benefited from them. Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, has indeed made several moves to adjust the state’s tax policies. In 2019, he signed a tax bill that included tax cuts for middle-income families. This bill aimed to align Minnesota’s tax system with federal changes and included a reduction in the second-tier income tax rate from 7.05% to 6.8%. Would you like to see more about how these tax changes impacted different income groups?

why don't you think he won't keep true to his promises

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:11:15 -0400

he thinks that one person can make a big difference in the world

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:04:35 -0400

being a teacher and football coach which helped him get here and want to run

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:02:54 -0400

I agree with this because I feel like he doing it to just do it

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 14:17:25 -0400

he really does look like he is crying Joe Biden was a good president

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 14:17:25 -0400

how is he saving democracy

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 14:17:25 -0400