Discuss any two incidents from the story which show that people can still be humane toward each other even though they are poor in the short story 'A Matter of Taste' by Alex La Guma.

1. In the story, the protagonist, a poor man named Styles, is shown kindness by a stranger when he is unable to pay for his meal at a restaurant. The stranger, who is also poor, offers to pay for Styles' meal, showing compassion and empathy towards someone in a similar situation. This act of kindness demonstrates that even those who have little can still be generous and caring towards others in need.

2. Another incident in the story that highlights the humanity of people despite their poverty is when Styles helps a homeless man who is being harassed by a police officer. Despite having very little himself, Styles intervenes and stands up for the homeless man, showing solidarity and compassion towards someone who is even less fortunate than he is. This act of kindness and empathy towards a stranger in need showcases the capacity for humanity and decency that exists within individuals, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Incident 1: The Sharing of the Meal

- Despite their desperate poverty, Mrs. Phillips and her children invite Beukes, a stranger whose family has been evicted, to share their meager meal.
- They offer him what little food they have, showing compassion and empathy, even though they have very little to spare.

Incident 2: The Act of Kindness by the Policeman

- The policeman who evicts Beukes and his family treats them with a surprising degree of humanity.
- He allows Beukes to take essential belongings, offers him a drink, and wishes them good luck, showing that even those in positions of authority can retain a sense of decency.