David Sedaris is a well-known American humorist and author, known for his witty and insightful essays. In his essay “Us and Them,” Sedaris reflects on the differences between his family and the Tomkeys, a family who lived next door during his childhood.
Summary
Sedaris begins by describing how the Tomkeys were seen as strange and different by his family because they celebrated Halloween differently. While Sedaris’s family opted for homemade costumes, the Tomkeys bought theirs from a store. This marked the beginning of the divide between “us” (Sedaris’s family) and “them” (the Tomkeys).
As Halloween approached, tensions rose between the two families. Sedaris recalls how he felt envious of the Tomkey children’s store-bought costumes and elaborate decorations while his own family stuck to their homemade traditions. This envy led to resentment towards the Tomkeys, as they seemed to have everything that Sedaris desired.
Analysis
Sedaris uses humor to highlight the absurdity of these perceived differences between his family and the Tomkeys. By focusing on something as trivial as Halloween costumes, Sedaris brings attention to how easily people can be divided based on superficial distinctions.
The essay also delves into themes of class consciousness and societal expectations. Sedaris’s family prided themselves on their frugality and creativity in making their costumes, while the Tomkeys represented a more consumerist approach with their store-bought items. This clash of values reflects larger societal attitudes towards wealth, status, and individuality.
Reflection
In reflecting on “Us and Them,” it becomes clear that our perceptions of others are often shaped by our own insecurities and desires. By examining our prejudices closely, we can learn to empathize with those who may seem different from us at first glance.
Sedaris ultimately challenges us to question why we create divisions between ourselves and others based on such arbitrary criteria. Through humor and introspection, he encourages readers to look beyond surface-level differences and find common ground with those who may initially seem unfamiliar.
References
The New Yorker
The Guardian
NPR
The Atlantic
