This is a lecture from my Sports and Literature course, which is great for helping young people learn valuable life lessons through stories about athletes.
We are studying the heart-pounding book Once a Runner by John Parker. You don’t have to be a fan of running to enjoy this funny and poignant novel. There is something here for everyone as we watch the great Quentin Cassidy overcome personal obstacles and fierce opponents to try to become the best mile runner in the world.
During this unit in the course, we also explore other key ideas and activities. Below are some additional resources and questions to discuss with parents, teachers, coaches, and peers. Come back on Thursday for part two—enjoy!
IN THIS LESSON
The greatest athletes push themselves to accomplish amazing feats. But what if such goals are dangerous to themselves or others? What is the price of excellence?
Resources:
Once a Runner by John L. Parker, Jr., up to p. 140
Extras:
Mountain climbing video, “Risky Business” from HBO’s Real Sports (full episode available on HBO Max)
“Pioneer Miler Roger Bannister and Everest Conqueror Edmund Hillary Became, at Midcentury, the Last Great Heroes in an Era of Sea Change in Sport” by Frank Deford
Discussion/writing prompts:
At what point does something (like mountain climbing) cease being a “sport” and become simple adventurism or daredevil behavior? Is putting one’s life at stake a worthy example of “sport”?
Quenton Cassidy is on a hero’s journey. What stages has he gone through by the time we reach p. 140? At what stage does this half of the book end? In what ways does he demonstrate the Warrior archetype?
Do you admire Quenton and Bruce, or do you think they are a bit crazy? The book is filled with colorful characters, but in what ways do many of them not understand what Quenton and Bruce’s mindset? Does the life of an elite runner appeal to you, why or why not?
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