Close Reading and Symbolism Practice for Chapter 1 of When the Emperor Was Divine

Welcome back, Lit & Lens Society readers! If you're diving into Julie Otsuka’s When the Emperor Was Divine, this is your space to slow down, read closely, and start building the deep literary analysis skills we practice together.

With this activity, we’re zooming in on Chapter 1: “Evacuation Order No. 19.” You’ll work with some of the most striking scenes in the chapter—yes, the dog scene too—and look at how Otsuka builds character, mood, and meaning through small but powerful details.

This activity is designed so you can go at your own pace and challenge yourself. You might focus on one part that interests you most, or take on several if you’re ready to stretch your skills.

✨ What You’ll Practice

In this guided activity, you’ll:

• Explore character: Analyze the woman, the girl, and the boy through their actions, words, and how others react to them
• Read passages closely: Pay special attention to scenes involving animals, music, silence, and violence
• Decode symbolism: Interpret meaningful objects and images like White Dog, The Gleaners, and the “dark stain”
• Build connections: Think about how song lyrics, radio broadcasts, and vintage films connect to themes like identity and assimilation

💡 Tips for Using This Practice Set

• Working in a group? Each of you can take one part and share insights together
• Working solo? Choose the section that feels most interesting—or push yourself to complete all five
• Want extra credit or a deeper challenge? Use this to help plan a future analytical paragraph or journal response

This isn’t about getting every answer “right.” It’s about thinking carefully, slowing down, and noticing what’s beneath the surface.