1. Olsen has a rich background in political activism and was once imprisoned for attempting to unionize blue-collar workers. Discuss how "I Stand Here Ironing" reflects Olsen's leftist views despite the absence of explicit political commentary.

2. In your opinion, does Olsen place more importance on nature or nurture in shaping a person's life? Provide examples of Emily's traits that her mother attributes to nature and others she attributes to nurture.

3. Numerous psychologists argue that birth order affects personality. Investigate this concept and summarize what studies have identified as common traits in first-born children. How does Emily's behavior align with these traits, and in what ways does it differ?

4. Create a character sketch of the story's narrator. What insights does the reader gain about her through her reflections on her relationship with her eldest daughter?

5. Analyze the narrator's choice at the end of the story to "let her be" when Emily expresses a desire to sleep in instead of attending her school exams.

6. How might Emily describe her relationship with her mother? Rewrite a significant incident or passage from the story from Emily's perspective.