Essay Questions

Hows poverty the main theme in the novel 'Abundance?'

Henry comes out of jail after serving five years but finds things worse. Henry's house is locked because he cannot pay rent. Therefore, Henry joins most Americans living in their cars because they cannot afford rent. Henry tries to find employment but in vain. Therefore, poverty remains one of the challenges that face most Americans.

How paradoxical is Walmart’s reduction in prices?

When Henry buys a birthday gift for his son in Walmart, he is surprised to learn that prices have dropped. Ironically, Henry only has 38 cents. Consequently, the good news of price reduction does not benefit Henry because he returns home empty-handed.

How does the author tackle the issue of immigration?

The author takes the readers in the past when he introduces Henry's father. Henry's father came to the U.S.A. from the Philippines to graduate education. While in America, he met a woman, and they got married, and later, Henry was born. Henry's father is an example of how immigrants came to America. Most people came as students, and they permanently resided in America. Unfortunately, immigrants face racism, and they do not get equal opportunities which leave them in poverty.