Because of Winn-Dixie — Chapter 11

About This Passage

This is the first time Otis tells Opal anything about himself, and the way he says it is just as important as what he says. Notice the very short sentences. Three sentences in a row, all of them simple. This is what writers call a staccato — short, choppy speech that sounds like the speaker is being careful not to say too much. Otis is still hiding most of his story, but he is opening one door. The third sentence is the most important: 'I know what it's like being locked up.' Until now, Opal does not know that Otis has been in jail. This sentence is the moment of confession, even though Otis does not say the word 'jail.' Copying this passage teaches a writer how to write a confession in three short sentences without ever using the word the confession is about.

Narration Prompt

Retell the chapter. Otis tells Opal he has been in jail. Does this change how you feel about him? Does it change how Opal feels about him?

Discussion Questions

1. When Otis plays his guitar, the animals all turn 'to stone' — meaning they sit still and listen. Is the music magic, or is the chapter using the word 'magic' to describe something that is not really magic? What do you think is actually happening?
2. Otis takes the animals out of their cages because he 'feels sorry for them being locked up.' He has been locked up too. What is the chapter showing us about how a person who has been hurt sometimes becomes the person who notices when others are hurt?

+ 3 more questions in the complete study guide