Section 1 – What is the reader’s response to the different perspectives on memory offered by Deo and the author? What is the relative importance of remembering? Of forgetting? How might one be more valuable, or more healthy, than the other?

The comments made here come within the context of the author's description of "gusimbura," which refers to the pain caused by reflecting on memories of painful experiences - deaths, tragedies, acts of violence. Deo's comment, within that context, suggests that in the West, people remind themselves of such things, while the author suggests that in Deo's home culture in Burundi, people try to forget. The question, therefore, asks readers to consider the relative values of both remembering bad things and forgetting them. What is the value in remembering them? What is the value of forgetting them?

Section 2 – At this point in the narrative, what are the parallels between Deo’s life in Burundi and his life in America as narration portrays them both? What are the contrasts?