Voices of Modern Culture

Activity 1.15continuedPunctuating PersonalityWordConnectionsMonologue contains theroot -log-, from the Greekword logos, meaning“word.” This root alsoappears in dialogue,eulogy, and epilogue. Theprefix mono- means “aloneor single.”M o n o l o g u eA b o u t t h e A u t h o rAs a playwright, author, and acting coach, DebbieLamedman has helped many teens explore their owninterests in acting. Debbie Lamedman is the editor ofThe Ultimate Audition Book for Teens by Teens. She hasalso performed in regional theaters around the country.Lamedman’s first play, phat girls, was published inan anthology of best plays for 2003 and it has beenperformed in numerous theaters.My Notesby Debbie LamedmanKATIE has just gotten braces put on her teeth, and she ismiserable. As her father tries to cheer her up, KATIE refuses tofeel better about the situation.KATIE: Don’t look at me…and don’t make me laugh…I look hideous.I don’t care if everyone I know has them. I care that I won’t be able to eatsolid food for the next two years. I care that every school picture will be ofsome FREAK.What do you mean it’ll be worth it? My teeth weren’t so bad—it’s not likeI had this huge overbite or anything. I could have lived with it. You and Momalways taught me to embrace the differences—well I would have embraced mycrooked teeth, if only you had let me.But now they’re going to be perfect and straight and I’m not sure all thissuffering is worth it, Dad…plus I’m in a lot of pain…© 2011 College Board. All rights reserved.36 SpringBoard® English Textual Power Level 5Well, I guess a chocolate milkshake would taste good right now—it won’tinvolve chewing. (Pause.)Okay, I’ll let you buy me one…but don’t think that’s going to put mein a good mood. I plan on being miserable for the next two years and I’mnot gonna smile until these things are off and my teeth and no longer beingheld hostage.And Dad…you say one day I’ll thank you, but we’ll just see about that. Ifthat day comes…I’ll buy you a milkshake.