At first, I found it quite difficult to dive into the minds of the readers or even understand each of the stories within each other because there was a lot going on at once. However, by focusing on John, I was able to read the text through a new lens. Rather than attempting to piece together everyone’s roles in the text and figure out their importance, I was able to re-read the stories and catch moments that I had not noticed before. For instance, I paid extra close attention to John’s thoughts and the way other characters responded to him which helped me better understand their dynamics and John’s state of mind. I was able to pick up more on the John’s relationship with Julius and the way that he still saw Julius as a slave. It deepened my understanding of their relationship by pointing out the ways that John tries to assert his authority over him. I especially saw this in the scene with Julius’ grandson.  

I found it quite difficult to get into John’s mind at times because I would already have an analysis in my head. As a result, I wanted to write it in my voice because that’s how I had worded it originally so I had to find different ways to say the same thing or sometimes not say it at all because it was out of John’s character, but still find a way to deliver the message. I think the research part was a bit overwhelming for John’s character because I kept finding good sources that analyzed Julius more. Therefore, I sometimes had to work with Julius’ description and analysis to then determine what John might think of that or how his interaction with the topic might go based on the novel. 

If I were to play again, I’d probably still choose John or a role where I could step back and be more comfortable going into analysis mode without having to go through the step of converting it into someone else’s voice. However, even though that step was often challenging, I think it is what allowed me to grasp a deeper understanding of the text. So, I’d probably try to challenge myself and play two roles. I think it could be interesting to even reply to oneself because it forces one to challenge their current response and look at it from a different perspective.  

I think I would make it more into a “game”. I admit the word “game” gave me trouble understanding the assignment because it wasn’t really a game like the ones I’m used to with points or a specific objective. I think by adding points like “If you respond to somebody’s post directly then you gain more points” or by making it more creative or including more sources it also raised one’s points. I think that would serve as a motivator for people to go outside of their comfort zone and allow themselves to be more creative with their roles. 

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