-Birth and death seem to go together. With the death of something, there is generally a new birth soon to follow. With the death of winter, spring soon follows with a refreshing new birth of all of the plants and trees. War can turn into a complete destruction, especially with atomic and nuclear bombs. The idea of birth and death went with the war because of the soldiers that saved their sperm. They knew they were going to die so they saved their sperm in hopes that a new life would come from it.
-The idea of saving sperm is not the nicest thought, especially when people are saving their sperm in their flasks. This portrays that the soldiers had nothing else to save it in, no proper way of saving sperm. Also, the idea of saving one's sperm seems like a last resort. The situation must have gotten so bad that the soldiers wanted to do something to attempt to live in some way.
-A poet is so much more understanding to one's feelings. A poet could understand the dead soldier and what he was trying to say. The poet understood what the soldier wanted to say. A journalist focuses more on the facts of the situation. The journalist would have simply noted that there was another charred soldier. The poet took the time to actually look at the soldier and figure out his story.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Class Work
Lion - A lion is a strong animal that must hunt for its food. They are catlike, but much larger. A lion has a loud roar and is thought of as the king of the jungle. They are tan in color and have a slightly long tail. All adult males have a mane surrounding their head.
Lioness - A lioness is a female lion. They are similar in appearance to males, but they are slightly smaller and do not have a mane. They are sometimes lighter in color also. Lionesses hunt for the food also and protect the lion cubs.
Unnaming Review
The interpretation on the blog is great. I strongly agree with his points, that stereotypes are awful. Respect should be gained, not deserved because of a title. A name and part of an identity does not mean any person is better than another. What matters is what that person does with that identity and how they fulfill a title. I was not placed in this mindset after reading the story though. Yes, everything in our society has a name and has some sort of identity. The naming of animals does not stereotype them the same way identities stereotype humans.
Interview Reaction
It is interesting that this story was originally meant as somewhat of a joke. Her thoughts on the use of wording to cover up truth was something I've never thought of before. The "body count" term and "friendly fire" explanation does make sense in that the words do not sound as awful as the truth in the description. I better understand the story after reading this interview. She wants to free the animals from the control of an identity so that they can be free.
Lioness - A lioness is a female lion. They are similar in appearance to males, but they are slightly smaller and do not have a mane. They are sometimes lighter in color also. Lionesses hunt for the food also and protect the lion cubs.
Unnaming Review
The interpretation on the blog is great. I strongly agree with his points, that stereotypes are awful. Respect should be gained, not deserved because of a title. A name and part of an identity does not mean any person is better than another. What matters is what that person does with that identity and how they fulfill a title. I was not placed in this mindset after reading the story though. Yes, everything in our society has a name and has some sort of identity. The naming of animals does not stereotype them the same way identities stereotype humans.
Interview Reaction
It is interesting that this story was originally meant as somewhat of a joke. Her thoughts on the use of wording to cover up truth was something I've never thought of before. The "body count" term and "friendly fire" explanation does make sense in that the words do not sound as awful as the truth in the description. I better understand the story after reading this interview. She wants to free the animals from the control of an identity so that they can be free.
Unnaming the Magi's Cold..
She Unnames Them
I had a hard time figuring out what this story was actually about. It seems to be about breaking a habit. It is habit to call animals by their names, but who gave the animals their names? And what authority does "she" have to unname them? The story was cute in that certain animals' characteristics were portrayed. The reader can relate to their experiences with household animals by how they would respond to being unnamed.
Journey of the Magi
The many descriptions in the story help the reader picture the magi's hard journey. People were unfriendly and not helpful. Their sleeping area was not consistent and unpleasant. I felt sympathy for the narrator. The situation was so bad that they decided it would be better to keep traveling instead of sleeping. There are many religious references. T. S. Elliot is known for his allusions to the Bible and Christianity, and his works were always interesting because of this. He is discussing the pagans when he talks about the alien people. The narrator seems fed up with people that have not accepted Jesus. When the narrator speaks of another death, I think he is referring to Jesus' death. I think that he cannot wait for them to be saved by His death because they are sinning by "clutching" their false gods.
A Cold Coming
This story is interesting to read, especially with the recent event of a wife getting her dead husband's body. She had to have a lawsuit so that she could freeze some of his sperm, which would most likely not impregnate her anyway. This story plays on the idea of life and death. The soldiers saved their sperm in hopes of a new life after they die. The narrator might be in Saddam's army. That would explain why he was asking for forgiveness and a pardon.
I had a hard time figuring out what this story was actually about. It seems to be about breaking a habit. It is habit to call animals by their names, but who gave the animals their names? And what authority does "she" have to unname them? The story was cute in that certain animals' characteristics were portrayed. The reader can relate to their experiences with household animals by how they would respond to being unnamed.
Journey of the Magi
The many descriptions in the story help the reader picture the magi's hard journey. People were unfriendly and not helpful. Their sleeping area was not consistent and unpleasant. I felt sympathy for the narrator. The situation was so bad that they decided it would be better to keep traveling instead of sleeping. There are many religious references. T. S. Elliot is known for his allusions to the Bible and Christianity, and his works were always interesting because of this. He is discussing the pagans when he talks about the alien people. The narrator seems fed up with people that have not accepted Jesus. When the narrator speaks of another death, I think he is referring to Jesus' death. I think that he cannot wait for them to be saved by His death because they are sinning by "clutching" their false gods.
A Cold Coming
This story is interesting to read, especially with the recent event of a wife getting her dead husband's body. She had to have a lawsuit so that she could freeze some of his sperm, which would most likely not impregnate her anyway. This story plays on the idea of life and death. The soldiers saved their sperm in hopes of a new life after they die. The narrator might be in Saddam's army. That would explain why he was asking for forgiveness and a pardon.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Greek Mythology
Siren Song
The narrator of this poem assumes that people are jealous of the sirens, that people are jealous of the ability to have people kill themselves just to get a glimpse of their "beauty." This is also assuming that people are jealous that the sirens must live a life of solitude. Everyone they attract ends up dead. Maybe the knowledge of the song is desirable because nobody knows the song. It is desirable because it is intangible and out of reach. This peom is from a different perspective than expected because most people view sirens as content creatures. This siren, however, is not happy. Her words become pessimistic to emphasize her unhappiness living this life of solitude. This peom makes sirens appear helpless because everybody who hears their cry of help ends up dying. Nobody interprets the song as a cry for help, but instead as a seduction call. Why does the author say that this song works? This line seems to go against the rest of the poem. Wouldn't the song NOT work because it is a cry for help and nobody can help them?
Ulysses
This story was a little bit hard to follow. I've read the story of Ulysses several times before, and it is an interesting story. The narrator notes at the beginning of the story that an idle king does not benefit his people. Ulysses has not appeared in any way like an idle king in any interpretation of the story. Other parts of the poem, such as mentioning having a hungry heart and mentioning that he has experienced a lot and remembers it all while fighting, are all qualities of a good king. Ulysses is proud of his son, who has different qualities and strengths as his father but will also succeed. The narrator also mentions that it is never too late to make a change in something. Even when the end of the day is approaching, or older age has hit, one can always change something for the better. This poem appears to be narrated by Ulysses in an older age.
Leda and the Swan
It is interesting that Zeus would take swan form to be able to have his way with a human. Why would he not just take human form? The girl that is described appears to be helpless. The swan seems to be the dominant figure, also a somewhat protecting figure. The burning roof and tower and the broken wall represent the unfaithful wife of Agamemnon. All of those images cause destruction, just as unfaithfulness does.
The narrator of this poem assumes that people are jealous of the sirens, that people are jealous of the ability to have people kill themselves just to get a glimpse of their "beauty." This is also assuming that people are jealous that the sirens must live a life of solitude. Everyone they attract ends up dead. Maybe the knowledge of the song is desirable because nobody knows the song. It is desirable because it is intangible and out of reach. This peom is from a different perspective than expected because most people view sirens as content creatures. This siren, however, is not happy. Her words become pessimistic to emphasize her unhappiness living this life of solitude. This peom makes sirens appear helpless because everybody who hears their cry of help ends up dying. Nobody interprets the song as a cry for help, but instead as a seduction call. Why does the author say that this song works? This line seems to go against the rest of the poem. Wouldn't the song NOT work because it is a cry for help and nobody can help them?
Ulysses
This story was a little bit hard to follow. I've read the story of Ulysses several times before, and it is an interesting story. The narrator notes at the beginning of the story that an idle king does not benefit his people. Ulysses has not appeared in any way like an idle king in any interpretation of the story. Other parts of the poem, such as mentioning having a hungry heart and mentioning that he has experienced a lot and remembers it all while fighting, are all qualities of a good king. Ulysses is proud of his son, who has different qualities and strengths as his father but will also succeed. The narrator also mentions that it is never too late to make a change in something. Even when the end of the day is approaching, or older age has hit, one can always change something for the better. This poem appears to be narrated by Ulysses in an older age.
Leda and the Swan
It is interesting that Zeus would take swan form to be able to have his way with a human. Why would he not just take human form? The girl that is described appears to be helpless. The swan seems to be the dominant figure, also a somewhat protecting figure. The burning roof and tower and the broken wall represent the unfaithful wife of Agamemnon. All of those images cause destruction, just as unfaithfulness does.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Essay #3 Introduction
The writing of every single story, poem, and essay is influenced by something, whether the influence is an author’s life, cultural experiences, or even the author’s outlook on a situation. In order to better understand the text, the reader must understand these influences. In Hemingway’s Hills like White Elephants, there were many influences. Although the couple was not in America at the time, one must understand the Great Depression and American history during the 1920’s to understand the tough decisions and lifestyle choices people had to make. One must understand the title, white elephants, and why an animal relates to a story about abortion. The reader must know that white elephants are both a blessing and a curse. Hemingway used his story to ambivalently discuss politics while also introducing an issue that many people deal with.
Essay #3 Proposal
Hills like White Elephants is a story full of strong metaphors. One cannot fully understand the metaphors and symbolism without knowing information behind the story. The United States was just experiencing the Great Depression when the story took place. The man in the relationship is American, and he is facing a personally large issue as well. The woman in the story, Jig, represents everybody that was affected by the economic crash. She has to live with the effect of the mishap more than the man does.
The title in itself plays a huge role in the interpretation of the story. The white elephants represent the looming abortion. While a child is generally a blessing, he can also be a burden if the parents are unable to care for the child. The struggle between the man and the woman is also something to take into consideration. The simple gender roles play an important part in the struggle over the decision. Also, the individuals represent different countries. The man is American, but the couple is now in Spain. Leaving America during such a hard time represents their reluctance to handle a difficult situation.
Thesis: This paper will explore the depths of Hemingway’s story by analyzing the story and the syntax and also by looking at the autobiographical and cultural influences of the time period and era.
The title in itself plays a huge role in the interpretation of the story. The white elephants represent the looming abortion. While a child is generally a blessing, he can also be a burden if the parents are unable to care for the child. The struggle between the man and the woman is also something to take into consideration. The simple gender roles play an important part in the struggle over the decision. Also, the individuals represent different countries. The man is American, but the couple is now in Spain. Leaving America during such a hard time represents their reluctance to handle a difficult situation.
Thesis: This paper will explore the depths of Hemingway’s story by analyzing the story and the syntax and also by looking at the autobiographical and cultural influences of the time period and era.
Annotated Bibliography
Hills Like White Elephants
"White Elephant." Wikipedia. 2008. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 7 Apr 2008.
A white elephant is something that’s effect is not worth the cost. The term derives from the white elephants that were kept by the rulers in Southeastern Asia. If the ruler had a white elephant, it meant that he was ruling his kingdom with justice and peace. The idea comes from the story of Buddha’s birth, when his mother dreamt about a white elephant. Actually having a white elephant was both a joy and a burden. They were sacred creatures. However, they were considered sacred animals. They could not be put to labor, and that is why they were a burden. This helps me understand the story better because I can relate the title to the actual story. I now understand how the characters feel about the unborn child. The reference to the hills that look like white elephants is more relevant in the story now.
Cooper, Michael. "The Writing Style of Hemingway." EzineArticles 12 September 2005. 07 April 2008 <http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Writing-Style-of-Hemingway&id=70613>.
Ernest Hemingway was born in a small town, where he lived for quite some time. This adds to my understanding of the story because he describes in detail only one conversation. He is writing about a circumstance that could occur anywhere and can affect all types of people. In 1937, Hemingway moved to Spain to write for a paper about the Spanish Civil War. The country was not at peace. He saw this firsthand. The history of the area relates to the conflict between the couple. They are in a deep relationship, but they cannot meet eye to eye. Hemingway was not fond of his mother. He is said to have portrayed his female characters in a masculine way because of this. They almost always have to face terrible situations, such as a possible abortion.
Devost, Nadine. "Hemingway's girls: unnaming and renaming Hemingway's female characters ." The Hemingway Review Vol. 14(1994) 07 April 2008.
It is noticed that Hemingway names his women in order to pinpoint where they stand in the relationship. Most often the actual name is a noun that goes along with modifiers to make clear the woman’s standing. Hemingway will also constantly use ambiguous terms, like girl and woman. He switches back and forth throughout the story to coincide with how the relationship unfolds in the story. This information helps me better understand where Jig stands in the relationship. When she is mentioned as “the girl,” it is understood that at that point she is submissive to the man or she is simply not strong at that point. When her actual name is used, the character is given more importance in her upcoming decision and in the relationship. One definition for a jig is a machine that guides. This idea could be true for the character as well.
David, Henry P.. "Abortion in Europe, 1920-91: A Public Health Perspective." Population Council Vol. 23, No. 1(1992) 1-22. 08 April 2008.
Abortion is a heavy topic among public health issues. In Europe, where abortions were more predominant in earlier years, whether the surgical procedure was safe was a topic of huge discussion. Russia was the first country to legalize abortion in the 1920’s. They did this to better equalize gender, but they eventually made abortion illegal again in the 1930’s. Soon after, other countries in Europe began legalizing abortion. There were no statistics on Spain’s stance during the 1920’s, which is when the story took place. However, if both the woman and man were American, this would explain why they were in Spain. It would be easier for them to have an abortion performed there.
Kimbell, Max. "All Experts." U.S. History > 1920's Railway Travel. 19 January 2004. 7 Apr 2008.
During the 1920’s train travel was very luxurious. It was not, however, very expensive. Of course, there were also different options for different prices. Almost everybody, despite social and economic state, relied on trains as transportation. The couple relied on the train for transportation in Spain. This may imply that the couple was of a slightly higher economical standing because trains were a luxury in the 1920’s. It was a somewhat glamorous way of transportation. This helps me understand the story because I can better picture the characters. I have a better understanding of the characters because I know more about them than just a sliver in time.
"Roaring Twenties." Wikipedia. 2008. 7 Apr 2008.
The Roaring 20’s was a time when everything began to change. Traditions were broken. New ideas were accepted. This episode in history occurred after a major war, World War I. Art, music, clothing, and lifestyles were completely changing. Everybody was having a good time during the “crazy years.” The Great Depression in 1929 ended the fun. It brought people back to reality in a sense. The entire story is a metaphor for the American culture during the 1920’s. There is a time of great fun and passion. However, consequences catch up with everybody. For whatever reason, carelessness or even bad luck, things change for the worse and decisions must be made. The couple had their fun, but now they much face a huge, earth-shattering decision. This period of history also explains why the man is slightly overbearing of the situation. He realizes that a mistake has been made and wants to get things back into order, just like the United States government focused on fixing the mistake.
"White Elephant." Wikipedia. 2008. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 7 Apr 2008
A white elephant is something that’s effect is not worth the cost. The term derives from the white elephants that were kept by the rulers in Southeastern Asia. If the ruler had a white elephant, it meant that he was ruling his kingdom with justice and peace. The idea comes from the story of Buddha’s birth, when his mother dreamt about a white elephant. Actually having a white elephant was both a joy and a burden. They were sacred creatures. However, they were considered sacred animals. They could not be put to labor, and that is why they were a burden. This helps me understand the story better because I can relate the title to the actual story. I now understand how the characters feel about the unborn child. The reference to the hills that look like white elephants is more relevant in the story now.
Cooper, Michael. "The Writing Style of Hemingway." EzineArticles 12 September 2005. 07 April 2008 <http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Writing-Style-of-Hemingway&id=70613>.
Ernest Hemingway was born in a small town, where he lived for quite some time. This adds to my understanding of the story because he describes in detail only one conversation. He is writing about a circumstance that could occur anywhere and can affect all types of people. In 1937, Hemingway moved to Spain to write for a paper about the Spanish Civil War. The country was not at peace. He saw this firsthand. The history of the area relates to the conflict between the couple. They are in a deep relationship, but they cannot meet eye to eye. Hemingway was not fond of his mother. He is said to have portrayed his female characters in a masculine way because of this. They almost always have to face terrible situations, such as a possible abortion.
Devost, Nadine. "Hemingway's girls: unnaming and renaming Hemingway's female characters ." The Hemingway Review Vol. 14(1994) 07 April 2008
It is noticed that Hemingway names his women in order to pinpoint where they stand in the relationship. Most often the actual name is a noun that goes along with modifiers to make clear the woman’s standing. Hemingway will also constantly use ambiguous terms, like girl and woman. He switches back and forth throughout the story to coincide with how the relationship unfolds in the story. This information helps me better understand where Jig stands in the relationship. When she is mentioned as “the girl,” it is understood that at that point she is submissive to the man or she is simply not strong at that point. When her actual name is used, the character is given more importance in her upcoming decision and in the relationship. One definition for a jig is a machine that guides. This idea could be true for the character as well.
David, Henry P.. "Abortion in Europe, 1920-91: A Public Health Perspective." Population Council Vol. 23, No. 1(1992) 1-22. 08 April 2008
Abortion is a heavy topic among public health issues. In Europe, where abortions were more predominant in earlier years, whether the surgical procedure was safe was a topic of huge discussion. Russia was the first country to legalize abortion in the 1920’s. They did this to better equalize gender, but they eventually made abortion illegal again in the 1930’s. Soon after, other countries in Europe began legalizing abortion. There were no statistics on Spain’s stance during the 1920’s, which is when the story took place. However, if both the woman and man were American, this would explain why they were in Spain. It would be easier for them to have an abortion performed there.
Kimbell, Max. "All Experts." U.S. History > 1920's Railway Travel. 19 January 2004. 7 Apr 2008
During the 1920’s train travel was very luxurious. It was not, however, very expensive. Of course, there were also different options for different prices. Almost everybody, despite social and economic state, relied on trains as transportation. The couple relied on the train for transportation in Spain. This may imply that the couple was of a slightly higher economical standing because trains were a luxury in the 1920’s. It was a somewhat glamorous way of transportation. This helps me understand the story because I can better picture the characters. I have a better understanding of the characters because I know more about them than just a sliver in time.
"Roaring Twenties." Wikipedia. 2008. 7 Apr 2008
The Roaring 20’s was a time when everything began to change. Traditions were broken. New ideas were accepted. This episode in history occurred after a major war, World War I. Art, music, clothing, and lifestyles were completely changing. Everybody was having a good time during the “crazy years.” The Great Depression in 1929 ended the fun. It brought people back to reality in a sense. The entire story is a metaphor for the American culture during the 1920’s. There is a time of great fun and passion. However, consequences catch up with everybody. For whatever reason, carelessness or even bad luck, things change for the worse and decisions must be made. The couple had their fun, but now they much face a huge, earth-shattering decision. This period of history also explains why the man is slightly overbearing of the situation. He realizes that a mistake has been made and wants to get things back into order, just like the United States government focused on fixing the mistake.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Trifles vs. A Jury of Her Peers
In life, perception is reality. Such is true for literature as well. The same situation is depicted as a play and as a short story. There are advantages and disadvantages of both forms. Each form has its own point of view.
The short story version is my personal preference. Details that are included in this form of the story were left out in the play. The reader has a better sense of the overall situation and how the characters reacted to things. The short story version has a better flow to the situation. The characters are introduced further because the reader sees more than just the spoken words.
The play form does have its perks also. With this version, spoken lines are written out with very little added detail. The reader does get a sense of the characters by interpreting any body language that is noted. Also, the reader sees the actual word choice of the characters, which says much about one’s attitude. However, the reader may not fully understand the technical side of the story because the details are left out.
I feel like the short story version lends itself more easily to a cultural and historical analysis. In the story, details are included that are vital to understanding the time period and culture. Characters’ unspoken conversations can also be followed in this version.
The short story version is my personal preference. Details that are included in this form of the story were left out in the play. The reader has a better sense of the overall situation and how the characters reacted to things. The short story version has a better flow to the situation. The characters are introduced further because the reader sees more than just the spoken words.
The play form does have its perks also. With this version, spoken lines are written out with very little added detail. The reader does get a sense of the characters by interpreting any body language that is noted. Also, the reader sees the actual word choice of the characters, which says much about one’s attitude. However, the reader may not fully understand the technical side of the story because the details are left out.
I feel like the short story version lends itself more easily to a cultural and historical analysis. In the story, details are included that are vital to understanding the time period and culture. Characters’ unspoken conversations can also be followed in this version.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
CR Readings/Historical Choice
Trifles
This story is interesting because it focuses in such detail on a short amount of time. This is a play, but small points are brought into our attention. The first important point is that Mrs. Wright has become terribly frazzled. She is blankly rocking back and forth and is speaking very little. The question that is discussed in this story is who killed Mr. Wright. The women did not have a good opinion of the couple in general. They both spoke worse of Mr. Wright though. The story takes place in an earlier time period. We know this because the women are allowed to walk into the crime scene with their husbands and pick through the house. The procedure they follow is informal and possibly not as precise as the procedure that is in place today. Also, word choice, such as queer, shows the time period difference. The title itself is a play on words. There are two significant definitions of trifle: an article of little importance and a circumstance of importance. The clothing that the women were focused on was very trivial in that it did not matter much to the case. The actual finding of the bird was extremely trivial in the case because it added a huge level of evidence.
Anorexic
This story was told from the point of view of a girl battling anorexia. She feels that her skin does not fit well with her body and with who she wants to be. She feels that her body is evil. The line, "Yes I am torching her curves..." is interesting because the narrator refers to herself in the third person point of view. The only way to deal with her pain was to punish her body by starvation. The narrator continues to refer to her body as another being and is angry with it. The narrator then refers to a man. Is she referring to a possible boyfriend? He may have caused the intense agony the narrator feels. Also, the narrator may be referring to her sense of comfort in a masculine tone. It is sad that the underlying thought is that if only I was a little bit thinner I would be more approved. It is interesting that the narrator clumps the words angular with holy. She thinks of being thin in the same idea as being holy and good.
Diving into the Wreck
This poem is a metaphor for life. The diver is putting on his gear to go into the depths of the sea to search through a ship wreck. The diver is alone. When we personally have to deal with an issue, we must face it alone. The narrator discusses a ladder in the poem. The ladder is the main bridge between the open depths of the sea and the reality on land. The person is on this journey alone. He is alone to face his own issues and to resolve what has been hidden away. Damage to certain things can leave a lasting impression on people.
Choice for Paper: A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings (pg. 183-187)
The author of this story is Hispanic, and I do know a little about the Hispanic culture. The names in the story are Spanish. The historical context of this story is a superstition that is based on culture. I am not familiar with the custom, but I am familiar with the festivals and traditions of the Hispanic culture. Some cultural clues in the story are that the villagers do not fear the angel. Instead, they welcome him as an unusual addition. There is also mention of miracles throughout the story, which plays a large part in cultural beliefs. I would like to get other information on similar superstitions and beliefs in the culture. Also, I would like to relate this information to any historical information that might be relevant. For keywords I would use Spanish angels, enormous wings, angel impersonators, angel superstitions, carnivals, and the angel of death.
This story is interesting because it focuses in such detail on a short amount of time. This is a play, but small points are brought into our attention. The first important point is that Mrs. Wright has become terribly frazzled. She is blankly rocking back and forth and is speaking very little. The question that is discussed in this story is who killed Mr. Wright. The women did not have a good opinion of the couple in general. They both spoke worse of Mr. Wright though. The story takes place in an earlier time period. We know this because the women are allowed to walk into the crime scene with their husbands and pick through the house. The procedure they follow is informal and possibly not as precise as the procedure that is in place today. Also, word choice, such as queer, shows the time period difference. The title itself is a play on words. There are two significant definitions of trifle: an article of little importance and a circumstance of importance. The clothing that the women were focused on was very trivial in that it did not matter much to the case. The actual finding of the bird was extremely trivial in the case because it added a huge level of evidence.
Anorexic
This story was told from the point of view of a girl battling anorexia. She feels that her skin does not fit well with her body and with who she wants to be. She feels that her body is evil. The line, "Yes I am torching her curves..." is interesting because the narrator refers to herself in the third person point of view. The only way to deal with her pain was to punish her body by starvation. The narrator continues to refer to her body as another being and is angry with it. The narrator then refers to a man. Is she referring to a possible boyfriend? He may have caused the intense agony the narrator feels. Also, the narrator may be referring to her sense of comfort in a masculine tone. It is sad that the underlying thought is that if only I was a little bit thinner I would be more approved. It is interesting that the narrator clumps the words angular with holy. She thinks of being thin in the same idea as being holy and good.
Diving into the Wreck
This poem is a metaphor for life. The diver is putting on his gear to go into the depths of the sea to search through a ship wreck. The diver is alone. When we personally have to deal with an issue, we must face it alone. The narrator discusses a ladder in the poem. The ladder is the main bridge between the open depths of the sea and the reality on land. The person is on this journey alone. He is alone to face his own issues and to resolve what has been hidden away. Damage to certain things can leave a lasting impression on people.
Choice for Paper: A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings (pg. 183-187)
The author of this story is Hispanic, and I do know a little about the Hispanic culture. The names in the story are Spanish. The historical context of this story is a superstition that is based on culture. I am not familiar with the custom, but I am familiar with the festivals and traditions of the Hispanic culture. Some cultural clues in the story are that the villagers do not fear the angel. Instead, they welcome him as an unusual addition. There is also mention of miracles throughout the story, which plays a large part in cultural beliefs. I would like to get other information on similar superstitions and beliefs in the culture. Also, I would like to relate this information to any historical information that might be relevant. For keywords I would use Spanish angels, enormous wings, angel impersonators, angel superstitions, carnivals, and the angel of death.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Themes&Setting
The Holocaust Party
The theme of this story is to overcome sadness in one's past. The story is set in the winter, where the weather is cold and dreary. This type of weather generally does not cause as much happiness as summertime does. The cold setting adds to the theme because it adds to the sadness. The point of view is coming from a man named Joel. By having the story in this point of view, the reader can get a glimpse into what the main character is rationalizing internally. Once inside the house, Joel describes the room they are sitting in. It is a quiet room, which seems to emphasize the akward silence. Mrs. Isabel tells her story with little description of the physical setting. Without any extra description, the reader still has a strong picture. Joel said, "I didn't see what difference it made. We all knew it wasn't a hotel." This was not spoken; it was written in the text. Because he is the narrator, the reader understands the sadness he feels by how he thinks of Mrs. Isabel's story.
No Name Woman
The theme of this story is that shame follows people for much longer than necessary. The story is told by the niece of the shamed woman. This emphasizes the theme because the niece feels shame even though she has never met her aunt. She felt shame after once hearing the story of her death and misfortunes. The description of America, where the narrator lives, portrays the astounding difference between her life now and her aunt's life in China. The description of China portrays that times were tough. The streets were narrow and seemingly dirty. The story of the aunt mostly takes place at night, which further adds to the suspence.
The theme of this story is to overcome sadness in one's past. The story is set in the winter, where the weather is cold and dreary. This type of weather generally does not cause as much happiness as summertime does. The cold setting adds to the theme because it adds to the sadness. The point of view is coming from a man named Joel. By having the story in this point of view, the reader can get a glimpse into what the main character is rationalizing internally. Once inside the house, Joel describes the room they are sitting in. It is a quiet room, which seems to emphasize the akward silence. Mrs. Isabel tells her story with little description of the physical setting. Without any extra description, the reader still has a strong picture. Joel said, "I didn't see what difference it made. We all knew it wasn't a hotel." This was not spoken; it was written in the text. Because he is the narrator, the reader understands the sadness he feels by how he thinks of Mrs. Isabel's story.
No Name Woman
The theme of this story is that shame follows people for much longer than necessary. The story is told by the niece of the shamed woman. This emphasizes the theme because the niece feels shame even though she has never met her aunt. She felt shame after once hearing the story of her death and misfortunes. The description of America, where the narrator lives, portrays the astounding difference between her life now and her aunt's life in China. The description of China portrays that times were tough. The streets were narrow and seemingly dirty. The story of the aunt mostly takes place at night, which further adds to the suspence.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
CR Readings
How to Date a Browngirl, Blackgirl, Whitegirl, or Halfie
This story was pretty vulgar. It focused on stereotypes, whether racial or social or even sexual. There are several clues that confuse the reader about what ethnicity the narrator is. Calling his aunt "tia" makes him appear Hispanic. However, referring to his afro makes him appear African American. This story was actually a cluster of directions. The directions lead the follower to "hopefully" make sexual contact with the girl. The narrator instructs to pay attention and pretend to be interested in what the girl is saying in order to get her approval. It appears that the narrator is so focused on this girl and hopefully "getting something from her" in order to forget about what is going on in his life. There is government cheese, and the entire family lives in an apartment in a bad part of the town. This leads one to believe that the narrator's life is not ideal.
No Name Woman
This story represents a culture more than the first story. So many instances are a part of only the Chinese culture. It's interesting that village would make sure a man was married before leaving for work. This would ensure that he would "responsibly come home." The villagers were ashamed of the narrator's aunt for having a child outside of wedlock. I got the feeling that some wore masks because they were also ashamed of their own behavior of raiding the house. I was shocked to realize the traumatic story was told just so the children would be scared to have sex. The incident is so personal that I felt this way of bringing it up was awful. The culture is shown again when Necessity is capitalized on page 149. It is actually a name of a guiding river, but the literal translation is true in American culture as well. I felt sympathy for the children in the story. They felt guilty for having any sort of happiness. The action always required energy, which left their parents exhausted. The traditions of how the Chinese eat in silence is interesting. The narrator's line "They want me to participate in her punishment. I have.." is shocking. This implies that the mother told her children the story so that they would also feel shame for their aunt's actions. The last line of this story, which refers to the drowned woman with wet hair hanging, reminds me of the movie The Ring. I was not aware that the idea of the movie was actually a Chinese superstition.
Becky
This story appears to play with the idea of karma. The town treats a single woman poorly. They send her out away from the town. Everybody remembered her though. People were scared of her ghost. The actual setup of the story is visually stimulating; it drew in my attention. Why was the father's identity such a secret? There seems to be such a divide between the whites and the blacks, which shows the culture of this time period. However, the two cultures come together in unity to cast out Becky. The idea of not accepting a woman who has a child out of wedlock appears to run in many different cultures.
Battle Royal
The title is humorous, because the battle between races is a royal battle. It has been going on for years and years. I read this story in high school and also did not understand it all that well then. The main character seems to be going through several different struggles. He is overcoming the race boundary by giving the speech to a crowd of white men. He is struggling with his family's expectations. He is struggling with himself. He is trying to find himself, while trying to live up to his family's standards. I would say that at the end of the story he has overcome quite a bit.
America
This is a different way to look at one's culture. It seems to be a sort of analysis of US culture. The narrator here has a love-hate relationship with the United States. He finds that many parts of the culture have been hard on him. The US is so big and vast that there are many different opportunities. One part of the culture motivates him and gives him the strength to be able to handle the parts of the culture that are not ideal. This culture will be as diverse as it is now for quite a while in the future. The narrator claims to see into the future and predicts that things will remain.
If We Must Die
Saying if they must die sounds like people are settling for a less than ideal circumstance. Not wanting to be like hogs means that they want to keep some dignity. The mad and hungry dogs are a metaphor for people who ridicule the narrator. I think this poem is a reference to a person who did something different, such as created unsusual artwork or believed in a new religion, and stood by what they believed in. Surrounding people are afraid and worried because this drastically new idea could threaten what exists currently. The narrator refers to being honored after death. This happens to people who are truly great. The narrator obviously has confidence and believes in himself. He wants to die nobly so that no precious blood is shed. He believes in himself and what he stands for.
This story was pretty vulgar. It focused on stereotypes, whether racial or social or even sexual. There are several clues that confuse the reader about what ethnicity the narrator is. Calling his aunt "tia" makes him appear Hispanic. However, referring to his afro makes him appear African American. This story was actually a cluster of directions. The directions lead the follower to "hopefully" make sexual contact with the girl. The narrator instructs to pay attention and pretend to be interested in what the girl is saying in order to get her approval. It appears that the narrator is so focused on this girl and hopefully "getting something from her" in order to forget about what is going on in his life. There is government cheese, and the entire family lives in an apartment in a bad part of the town. This leads one to believe that the narrator's life is not ideal.
No Name Woman
This story represents a culture more than the first story. So many instances are a part of only the Chinese culture. It's interesting that village would make sure a man was married before leaving for work. This would ensure that he would "responsibly come home." The villagers were ashamed of the narrator's aunt for having a child outside of wedlock. I got the feeling that some wore masks because they were also ashamed of their own behavior of raiding the house. I was shocked to realize the traumatic story was told just so the children would be scared to have sex. The incident is so personal that I felt this way of bringing it up was awful. The culture is shown again when Necessity is capitalized on page 149. It is actually a name of a guiding river, but the literal translation is true in American culture as well. I felt sympathy for the children in the story. They felt guilty for having any sort of happiness. The action always required energy, which left their parents exhausted. The traditions of how the Chinese eat in silence is interesting. The narrator's line "They want me to participate in her punishment. I have.." is shocking. This implies that the mother told her children the story so that they would also feel shame for their aunt's actions. The last line of this story, which refers to the drowned woman with wet hair hanging, reminds me of the movie The Ring. I was not aware that the idea of the movie was actually a Chinese superstition.
Becky
This story appears to play with the idea of karma. The town treats a single woman poorly. They send her out away from the town. Everybody remembered her though. People were scared of her ghost. The actual setup of the story is visually stimulating; it drew in my attention. Why was the father's identity such a secret? There seems to be such a divide between the whites and the blacks, which shows the culture of this time period. However, the two cultures come together in unity to cast out Becky. The idea of not accepting a woman who has a child out of wedlock appears to run in many different cultures.
Battle Royal
The title is humorous, because the battle between races is a royal battle. It has been going on for years and years. I read this story in high school and also did not understand it all that well then. The main character seems to be going through several different struggles. He is overcoming the race boundary by giving the speech to a crowd of white men. He is struggling with his family's expectations. He is struggling with himself. He is trying to find himself, while trying to live up to his family's standards. I would say that at the end of the story he has overcome quite a bit.
America
This is a different way to look at one's culture. It seems to be a sort of analysis of US culture. The narrator here has a love-hate relationship with the United States. He finds that many parts of the culture have been hard on him. The US is so big and vast that there are many different opportunities. One part of the culture motivates him and gives him the strength to be able to handle the parts of the culture that are not ideal. This culture will be as diverse as it is now for quite a while in the future. The narrator claims to see into the future and predicts that things will remain.
If We Must Die
Saying if they must die sounds like people are settling for a less than ideal circumstance. Not wanting to be like hogs means that they want to keep some dignity. The mad and hungry dogs are a metaphor for people who ridicule the narrator. I think this poem is a reference to a person who did something different, such as created unsusual artwork or believed in a new religion, and stood by what they believed in. Surrounding people are afraid and worried because this drastically new idea could threaten what exists currently. The narrator refers to being honored after death. This happens to people who are truly great. The narrator obviously has confidence and believes in himself. He wants to die nobly so that no precious blood is shed. He believes in himself and what he stands for.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Freewrite & Research
I.)
a.) WAR - dark, cold, angry, loud noises, winter, blood, yelling, smoke, strong emotions, uniforms, dirt, pain, feeling scared
GUNNER - one who uses guns, a strong person, someone hunting someone down
ATTACK - suprise, powerful, angry, blood and dirt, emotional, someone creating dominance, weapons,
b.) World War II - black and white photographs, nurses with the oldfashioned uniforms, Red Cross, small planes, Nazi's, the Holocaust, German culture, Hitler, nuclear bombs, a gray setting, moustaches
II.) Reflection:
a.) After researching a ball turret, I better understand why he would freeze. After maybe being forced into a tiny space, I can also better understand how easily it would be to zone out and become lost in your own little world. The gunner is so far away from civilization, but there is still so much going on. Seeing the tiny space helped me better visualize the washing with a hose. Hunching in its belly is also easier to visualize. The ball turret is literally in the belly of the plane.
b.) Jarrell was not qualified to fly. This could have made him feel resentful, and this may be why his poems tended to be more critical of war. He understood how the process worked and how it was to be a gunner because he saw it daily. His poem seems sympathetic also. He is describing the job of a gunner in a way that the reader feels pity for the gunner.
a.) WAR - dark, cold, angry, loud noises, winter, blood, yelling, smoke, strong emotions, uniforms, dirt, pain, feeling scared
GUNNER - one who uses guns, a strong person, someone hunting someone down
ATTACK - suprise, powerful, angry, blood and dirt, emotional, someone creating dominance, weapons,
b.) World War II - black and white photographs, nurses with the oldfashioned uniforms, Red Cross, small planes, Nazi's, the Holocaust, German culture, Hitler, nuclear bombs, a gray setting, moustaches
II.) Reflection:
a.) After researching a ball turret, I better understand why he would freeze. After maybe being forced into a tiny space, I can also better understand how easily it would be to zone out and become lost in your own little world. The gunner is so far away from civilization, but there is still so much going on. Seeing the tiny space helped me better visualize the washing with a hose. Hunching in its belly is also easier to visualize. The ball turret is literally in the belly of the plane.
b.) Jarrell was not qualified to fly. This could have made him feel resentful, and this may be why his poems tended to be more critical of war. He understood how the process worked and how it was to be a gunner because he saw it daily. His poem seems sympathetic also. He is describing the job of a gunner in a way that the reader feels pity for the gunner.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
War&History
Turning Out with a Focus on Historicism and New Historicism
The idea of relating stories to history and real-life events to better understand a story is a method that is used whether one realizes it or not. We relate stories to something that is familiar to us to better understand and relate to the story. By using the historicism method, a reader must have knowledge or history or must have access to the information. While researching history may seem cumbersum, the extra knowledge greatly helps the reader dive further into the text. That there are inaccuracies in a historical text is interesting. While it does relate to history, a text is from a person's point of view. Their perception of a situation may be different from another person's. There must always be evidence to support the discussion of a historical text. However, one must be aware that there are many different types of text. Also, some documents found may be biased or false.
Concerning the Nazi slave labor camps claim, if the first claim and the second claim were found accurate and correct, would you continue onto a third claim? We must be aware that texts discussing the past may be different due to the era in which it is written. Therefore, this type of text will present an idea on the past, but also on the era in which it is written. It is interesting that an author may be telling a story about the past, while at the same time trying to say something about the current time period.
The idea of relating stories to history and real-life events to better understand a story is a method that is used whether one realizes it or not. We relate stories to something that is familiar to us to better understand and relate to the story. By using the historicism method, a reader must have knowledge or history or must have access to the information. While researching history may seem cumbersum, the extra knowledge greatly helps the reader dive further into the text. That there are inaccuracies in a historical text is interesting. While it does relate to history, a text is from a person's point of view. Their perception of a situation may be different from another person's. There must always be evidence to support the discussion of a historical text. However, one must be aware that there are many different types of text. Also, some documents found may be biased or false.
Concerning the Nazi slave labor camps claim, if the first claim and the second claim were found accurate and correct, would you continue onto a third claim? We must be aware that texts discussing the past may be different due to the era in which it is written. Therefore, this type of text will present an idea on the past, but also on the era in which it is written. It is interesting that an author may be telling a story about the past, while at the same time trying to say something about the current time period.
The Holocaust Party
I liked this story very much. Mrs. Isabel's story was powerful, but the narrator's interpretation of Mrs. Isabel is even more interesting. The woman obviously survived many hardships. I related to the narrator when he could not understand why she would make such a ridiculous comment. In a way, her comment made me feel bad for her. For a long time she was not living an ideal life, and it is easy to believe that the harsh soldiers may have warped her thoughts and ideas. It is true enough that this is not a typical Holocaust survivor story; many survivors' tales are much more horrifying and graphic. One cannot judge another's past and troubles. If a situation affected a person in a certain way, noone can stand there and tell that person otherwise.
The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner
This poem is again about war. What does he mean when he says he fell immediately into the State? Does he mean he went to war at a young age? The line about being six miles away from the dream of life is interesting. When one that far above ground, what is seen can seem unrealistic. When he snapped out of his daze and daydreaming, he awoke again to the horrific scene. This poet is trying to discuss the reality of war, not the idea of nobility and pride that can be associated with it. This is evident when he describes how he was washed out of the turret with a hose. It is interesting that the poet chose for this poem to be in the first person point of view because nobody knows their own death as good as they do. The narrator sounds as if he has become trapped in a state of learned helplessness. He is fighting in the war, but he doesn't care to be there. If he was excited about fighting he wouldn't be daydreaming while in the air. He wouldn't have lost his sense of reality.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Strategies&CR
Cultural/Historical Inventory
I strongly agree that culture defines a piece of writing. Culture defines who we are as people and how we choose to live our lives. In a past English class we had to research the author of a famous text. Once I understood more about the author and his life, I had a completely different outlook on the text. It is suprising how culture and history have an effect on individuals.
The Soldier
This peom discusses the longing for something that is constant and familiar in a world that is constantly changing. The soldier is saying that, although there is a war that is destroying the country they love, there will always be reminders of the country they cherished. The poem is saying that one can always be happy even though there is change.
Anthem for Doomed Youth
This poem is about young soldiers who die at war. They die as cattle because they are too young to have accomplished anything by the time they have been sent off to be practically slaughtered at war. The rifles' shots are louder than any of their prayers. There is no funeral for the young soldiers when they are killed out in the fields.
Dulce et Decorum Est
This poem is also about soldiers in war. These soldiers are walking along, barely able to take steps forward because they are so tired and sick. Some men have become so affected by the war they have gone mad. They have begun to ignore the signs of war that previously frightened them. When poisonous gas is noticed, they are awakened from their daze. A man that does not get his helmet on in time haunts the narrator's dreams. The imagery of the poor man is disheartening. The man says that it is sweet to die for one's country. This dying phrase fills the reader with hope and pride.
The Glory of Women
This poem also is about a war. The soldiers are narrating the poem, which describes the women left behind in the war. The narrator is proud of the woman he has left behind. She keeps a positive attitude and listens intently to the war stories. She obviously supports the soldiers and the war. Either deliberately or not, she ignores the negativity of the war by going through her daily routine.
They
The Bishop idolizes the young soldiers and is understanding of the future hardships. He acknowledges that they have faced difficult times during the war. The Bishop remains predominately optimistic even when the soldiers come back from the war and are fully pessimistic.
It was interesting that all of the required reading were about wars. The differences portrayed the many different ways of interpreting things on the same topic and idea.
I strongly agree that culture defines a piece of writing. Culture defines who we are as people and how we choose to live our lives. In a past English class we had to research the author of a famous text. Once I understood more about the author and his life, I had a completely different outlook on the text. It is suprising how culture and history have an effect on individuals.
The Soldier
This peom discusses the longing for something that is constant and familiar in a world that is constantly changing. The soldier is saying that, although there is a war that is destroying the country they love, there will always be reminders of the country they cherished. The poem is saying that one can always be happy even though there is change.
Anthem for Doomed Youth
This poem is about young soldiers who die at war. They die as cattle because they are too young to have accomplished anything by the time they have been sent off to be practically slaughtered at war. The rifles' shots are louder than any of their prayers. There is no funeral for the young soldiers when they are killed out in the fields.
Dulce et Decorum Est
This poem is also about soldiers in war. These soldiers are walking along, barely able to take steps forward because they are so tired and sick. Some men have become so affected by the war they have gone mad. They have begun to ignore the signs of war that previously frightened them. When poisonous gas is noticed, they are awakened from their daze. A man that does not get his helmet on in time haunts the narrator's dreams. The imagery of the poor man is disheartening. The man says that it is sweet to die for one's country. This dying phrase fills the reader with hope and pride.
The Glory of Women
This poem also is about a war. The soldiers are narrating the poem, which describes the women left behind in the war. The narrator is proud of the woman he has left behind. She keeps a positive attitude and listens intently to the war stories. She obviously supports the soldiers and the war. Either deliberately or not, she ignores the negativity of the war by going through her daily routine.
They
The Bishop idolizes the young soldiers and is understanding of the future hardships. He acknowledges that they have faced difficult times during the war. The Bishop remains predominately optimistic even when the soldiers come back from the war and are fully pessimistic.
It was interesting that all of the required reading were about wars. The differences portrayed the many different ways of interpreting things on the same topic and idea.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
My Paper Concerns
I am concerned that I focused too much on the store as a whole rather than on the individual drink. I feel that the image of the actual store adds a lot to my point. However, would it be beneficial to add more about the actual drink? Should I put more personal experience into my paper? I am an avid coffee drinker and have strong opinions on the store, but I am unsure of whether or not that would take away from my main idea.
Poster Reflection
The message of my poster is that we should be concerned with the health of our environment. Global warming is a huge issue today. People claim that they are doing everything they can to not disrupt the cleanliness and to not put pollution into our world. However, most people do not want to make changes in their daily routines. Therefore, many people support the idea of keeping a clean environment but are not doing anything to actually keep it clean.
I chose global warming because it is an important issue. Whether or not global warming exists, we need to stop dirtying up our world. Litter and pollution are everywhere. Aside from global warming, we just need to learn how to keep our environment clean.
I chose the images of the polar bears because people can relate to these images easily. Most people think polar bears are cute. This type of relation to the animal causes the audience to feel more sympathetic. One of the main issues with global warming is the heavy use of nonenvironmentally-friendly cars. I chose several pictures of heavy traffic flow. An easy way to stop some pollution is to carpool or use other methods of transportation. I chose the factory picture because factories emit large amounts of pollution into the air and ozone. There are regulations being set up, but companies are finding ways around them to keep costs down. The image of President Bush holding a globe is powerful. He is in an extremely influential position. His comment in the picture represents what most Americans think about global warming and then environment changing.
If I had unlimited resources, I would have used more vivid colors and more intense photography. I would also like to put comparison photos of glaciers now compared to glacier size many years ago.
I chose global warming because it is an important issue. Whether or not global warming exists, we need to stop dirtying up our world. Litter and pollution are everywhere. Aside from global warming, we just need to learn how to keep our environment clean.
I chose the images of the polar bears because people can relate to these images easily. Most people think polar bears are cute. This type of relation to the animal causes the audience to feel more sympathetic. One of the main issues with global warming is the heavy use of nonenvironmentally-friendly cars. I chose several pictures of heavy traffic flow. An easy way to stop some pollution is to carpool or use other methods of transportation. I chose the factory picture because factories emit large amounts of pollution into the air and ozone. There are regulations being set up, but companies are finding ways around them to keep costs down. The image of President Bush holding a globe is powerful. He is in an extremely influential position. His comment in the picture represents what most Americans think about global warming and then environment changing.
If I had unlimited resources, I would have used more vivid colors and more intense photography. I would also like to put comparison photos of glaciers now compared to glacier size many years ago.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Essay #2
PROPOSAL
I intend to focus on a Grande Raspberry Nonfat White Chocolate Mocha from Starbucks. The main purpose of this text is to quench the customer's coffee desires, while also satisfying a nagging sweet tooth. Overall, the drink's goal is to please and taste good to the customer. However, a person may order this drink for other reasons. I do not know anyone that doesn't acknowledge that Starbucks' drinks are overpriced. Simply walking around holding a Starbucks cup portrays an image of slight status. Most Starbucks drinkers are daily coffee drinkers. Therefore, one would imply that the individual can afford to spend money on an overpriced cup of coffee and enjoy it, or at least pretend to, every single day. This particular customer's order is ironic in the health conscious world. The individual ordered a nonfat drink, meaning the drink will be made with skim milk instead of whole milk. However, the calories that are left out with the milk are made up in the several syrups used for the mocha and the raspberry flavoring.
The Starbucks Corporation has been very clever in its design. The design of each cup is simple and clean looking, which is a modern look. The whole idea of Starbucks, a coffee company that appeals to the new, young, and chic, is genius. It brings an urban style and feel into the corporate world, allowing professionals to add something "different" to their world. However, in reality they are just like every other professional that is looking to bring a unique and different flair into their lives. Starbucks has realized that people are willing to pay more for that image.
Starbucks has created their products to appeal to absolutely everyone, from the "boring" corporate professionals, to the soccer moms looking for a relaxing moment, to the artistic young and hip crowd, and even to children. The many flavors and drink options ensure that something will appeal to everyone. There are often stuffed animals and seasonal toys placed at the ordering counter just at eye height for a young child. I have to admit that I am fully addicted to Starbucks. I believe that we have a love/hate relationship, in that I hate that I absolutely love Starbucks. The design ideas and creations are working because people keep going back to Starbucks for that overpriced cup of coffee.
THESIS
This paper will argue that Starbucks has evolved from a simple coffee shop to having a monopoly over the coffee shop and cafe scene, in that carrying around an overpriced cup of Starbucks coffee also carries along an image and an idea about the individual customer.
I intend to focus on a Grande Raspberry Nonfat White Chocolate Mocha from Starbucks. The main purpose of this text is to quench the customer's coffee desires, while also satisfying a nagging sweet tooth. Overall, the drink's goal is to please and taste good to the customer. However, a person may order this drink for other reasons. I do not know anyone that doesn't acknowledge that Starbucks' drinks are overpriced. Simply walking around holding a Starbucks cup portrays an image of slight status. Most Starbucks drinkers are daily coffee drinkers. Therefore, one would imply that the individual can afford to spend money on an overpriced cup of coffee and enjoy it, or at least pretend to, every single day. This particular customer's order is ironic in the health conscious world. The individual ordered a nonfat drink, meaning the drink will be made with skim milk instead of whole milk. However, the calories that are left out with the milk are made up in the several syrups used for the mocha and the raspberry flavoring.
The Starbucks Corporation has been very clever in its design. The design of each cup is simple and clean looking, which is a modern look. The whole idea of Starbucks, a coffee company that appeals to the new, young, and chic, is genius. It brings an urban style and feel into the corporate world, allowing professionals to add something "different" to their world. However, in reality they are just like every other professional that is looking to bring a unique and different flair into their lives. Starbucks has realized that people are willing to pay more for that image.
Starbucks has created their products to appeal to absolutely everyone, from the "boring" corporate professionals, to the soccer moms looking for a relaxing moment, to the artistic young and hip crowd, and even to children. The many flavors and drink options ensure that something will appeal to everyone. There are often stuffed animals and seasonal toys placed at the ordering counter just at eye height for a young child. I have to admit that I am fully addicted to Starbucks. I believe that we have a love/hate relationship, in that I hate that I absolutely love Starbucks. The design ideas and creations are working because people keep going back to Starbucks for that overpriced cup of coffee.
THESIS
This paper will argue that Starbucks has evolved from a simple coffee shop to having a monopoly over the coffee shop and cafe scene, in that carrying around an overpriced cup of Starbucks coffee also carries along an image and an idea about the individual customer.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Beyond Words #2 pg. 485
If a cause is truly worthy, it will not be sunk by an inept poster. However, most worthy causes will not have awful ads and marketing techniques. The marketing and advertising of an item does portray the message of the product. I do agree with Keedy's idea because if there is a sufficient product, the good and strong message will prevail over the poor advertising.
In Savannah, there were several politicians running for mayor. I was beginning to become interested in politics at this point, so I paid more attention to the campaigns. One candidate's commercials basically pointed out all of the negativity of the other candidates. This completely turned me off from the candidate. His campaign focused on his competitor's negativity instead of focusing on his own positive ideas and message. I feel that this method of campaigning is petty and immature. Although I was too young to vote at this point, the candidate's disgusting commercials heavily outweighed anything positive he could have said or done.
In Savannah, there were several politicians running for mayor. I was beginning to become interested in politics at this point, so I paid more attention to the campaigns. One candidate's commercials basically pointed out all of the negativity of the other candidates. This completely turned me off from the candidate. His campaign focused on his competitor's negativity instead of focusing on his own positive ideas and message. I feel that this method of campaigning is petty and immature. Although I was too young to vote at this point, the candidate's disgusting commercials heavily outweighed anything positive he could have said or done.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Analyzing Design
This writing assignment seems like it will be a little more exciting that the last. There will be more freedom in how we choose to portray our image or text. It is interesting to analyze every detail of the advertising that goes into what influences us to buy a product. Every single detail is looked at and analyzed before a product goes out into the market. Every single detail is analyzed and discussed while making the product.
It is very true that what we buy, wear, and own say things about who we are. This runs true with our class discussion of the Hummer and the Prius. However, this statement is only true if one has the finances to purchase what he actually wants. Many times, people purchase a lesser item because they cannot afford the item they truly desire.
It is very true that what we buy, wear, and own say things about who we are. This runs true with our class discussion of the Hummer and the Prius. However, this statement is only true if one has the finances to purchase what he actually wants. Many times, people purchase a lesser item because they cannot afford the item they truly desire.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Car Culture
The many different perspectives on design are enlightening. I typically used to think of design as coinciding with architecture. However, I have learned that design is encorporated into almost everything.
Discussing the first article about the Hummer and the Prius, I feel that the author believes people are interested in cars because of the unique designs. Both cars are unusual models. I strongly disagree with the statement "New money is very Hummer." "Old money" has also shown to be very Hummer, especially in Hollywood. This statement implies that the younger generation is blindsighted by advertising into buying a not necessarily great car because of the design. The article also implies that many people like the idea and preach about the idea of saving the environment. However, it is ironic that Prius driving individuals also own gas guzzling jets and use a lot of energy to run their large homes. On the other side, any way to save the environment is a good way to live.
Regarding the Hysteria article, design is clearly used for much more than simply the visual aspect of advertising, Design creates the entire message and idea that is being portrayed. I agree with the authors statement that it is not better to be more obnoxious than the enemy. Most designers do not realize this and will create ideas that stand out even more. It seems that the author has a particular anger towards designers, made obvious by the comment, "And stop pretending you're an artist, because you're not." Design could easily be considered art, especially with all of the visual processes it entails. That there is truth in advertising is an oxymoron is a very true statement. Advertising exists to sway a consumer to buy the product, not to inform the consumer about its details.
In the Christmas light article, the main idea seems to be that advertising feeds off of the "keeping up with the Jones" idea. People continue to want bigger and better things. "Exposure creates demand." I agree with this statement completely. This also strongly influences advertising in that it is bolder and easily remembered.
In the Black Spot Sneaker article, I felt that the creators of the sneaker are more concerned with taking away from Nike's market share than how well their own product is doing. The product and the positive image comes in second in importance to the idea that the corporate "tools" should not have as much of the market share. I am still puzzled as to why the creators decided to attack corporations by focusing on the shoe market. Would it not have been easier to focus on a different market, such as simple shirts or jeans?
Discussing the first article about the Hummer and the Prius, I feel that the author believes people are interested in cars because of the unique designs. Both cars are unusual models. I strongly disagree with the statement "New money is very Hummer." "Old money" has also shown to be very Hummer, especially in Hollywood. This statement implies that the younger generation is blindsighted by advertising into buying a not necessarily great car because of the design. The article also implies that many people like the idea and preach about the idea of saving the environment. However, it is ironic that Prius driving individuals also own gas guzzling jets and use a lot of energy to run their large homes. On the other side, any way to save the environment is a good way to live.
Regarding the Hysteria article, design is clearly used for much more than simply the visual aspect of advertising, Design creates the entire message and idea that is being portrayed. I agree with the authors statement that it is not better to be more obnoxious than the enemy. Most designers do not realize this and will create ideas that stand out even more. It seems that the author has a particular anger towards designers, made obvious by the comment, "And stop pretending you're an artist, because you're not." Design could easily be considered art, especially with all of the visual processes it entails. That there is truth in advertising is an oxymoron is a very true statement. Advertising exists to sway a consumer to buy the product, not to inform the consumer about its details.
In the Christmas light article, the main idea seems to be that advertising feeds off of the "keeping up with the Jones" idea. People continue to want bigger and better things. "Exposure creates demand." I agree with this statement completely. This also strongly influences advertising in that it is bolder and easily remembered.
In the Black Spot Sneaker article, I felt that the creators of the sneaker are more concerned with taking away from Nike's market share than how well their own product is doing. The product and the positive image comes in second in importance to the idea that the corporate "tools" should not have as much of the market share. I am still puzzled as to why the creators decided to attack corporations by focusing on the shoe market. Would it not have been easier to focus on a different market, such as simple shirts or jeans?
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Computer Preference
I prefer to use a PC. I am a business student, and most computer programs used in business are made compatible for PC's. I realize that the programs can be made compatible for Mac's, but that is a long and difficult process. I have an HP laptop. The design is simple. My laptop is sleek and thin, with a simple wave pattern on the top. The computer itself is attractive. The programs are useful and easy to understand.
However, I definitely am attracted to the design on the Mac computers. I think I may be drawn to them because everything is so different about the computers. The looks and styles vary much more than on PC's. There are more colors to choose from. The design of the actual programs is interesting. Everything is different about them from where you click to exit a webpage to the buttons on the keyboard. I believe that being different was a motivation in the design of the Mac computers.
However, I definitely am attracted to the design on the Mac computers. I think I may be drawn to them because everything is so different about the computers. The looks and styles vary much more than on PC's. There are more colors to choose from. The design of the actual programs is interesting. Everything is different about them from where you click to exit a webpage to the buttons on the keyboard. I believe that being different was a motivation in the design of the Mac computers.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
A Catchy Line
"Go make yourself a dang quesadilla."
This is from Napoelon Dynamite, the movie. My friends and I used to always say this. I am not exactly sure why, because I actually didn't like the movie and was practically forced to watch it. I feel like this line just stuck because it was so ridiculous. The facial expressions when this was said were so hilarious. Also, the character who said this said quesadiLLA (pronouncing the L's as L's), which also made it a memorable line for my friends and me.
This really has no correlation to life; it was just a line that stood out to us and is stuck in my head.
This is from Napoelon Dynamite, the movie. My friends and I used to always say this. I am not exactly sure why, because I actually didn't like the movie and was practically forced to watch it. I feel like this line just stuck because it was so ridiculous. The facial expressions when this was said were so hilarious. Also, the character who said this said quesadiLLA (pronouncing the L's as L's), which also made it a memorable line for my friends and me.
This really has no correlation to life; it was just a line that stood out to us and is stuck in my head.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Short Writing Assignment #2
Essay 1 Introduction:
Ed Madden depicts a conversation through the use of metaphors in his poem Hidden Things. He relates human goodness and natural optimism to the blooming and thriving of plantlife and flowers. This poem argues that it is human nature to want to see something that is good in something that has perished, even if it takes a little help from others along the way, by using the metaphors of nature and flowers. In the sixth stanza, a sadness is introduced by the purple seeds and bulbs not appearing again. However, the optimism is shown by the reader wanting to be reminding that the "ground is rich with history," which represents the full and happy life he has lived.
Ed Madden depicts a conversation through the use of metaphors in his poem Hidden Things. He relates human goodness and natural optimism to the blooming and thriving of plantlife and flowers. This poem argues that it is human nature to want to see something that is good in something that has perished, even if it takes a little help from others along the way, by using the metaphors of nature and flowers. In the sixth stanza, a sadness is introduced by the purple seeds and bulbs not appearing again. However, the optimism is shown by the reader wanting to be reminding that the "ground is rich with history," which represents the full and happy life he has lived.
Short Writing Assignment #1
Topic Proposal for Essay #1
1.) 1. I have chosen Hidden Things by Ed Madden.
2. The text's central claim or agrument is that there will always be the good memories. Sadness and unfortunate times exist, but the memory of past happiness will bring us along.
3. The most compelling passage for me is the 6th stanza in the poem. "..what you have done...the ground is rich with history..."
4. Metaphors are used throughout the passage and throughout the entire poem. The perennial herbs refer to the ability of human's to see something that is beautiful through so much tragedy. 5. The last line in the stanza rhymes slightly with itself, making it easier for the line to roll off the reader's tongue.
6. The use of the metaphors and the rhythmic patterns add to the message of the text. The use of these techniques helps add life to the vegetation and the idea of rebirth in the poem.
2.) A developed thesis:
This paper will argue that it is human nature to want to see something that is good in something that has perished, even if it takes a little help from others along the way, by using the metaphors of nature and flowers.
1.) 1. I have chosen Hidden Things by Ed Madden.
2. The text's central claim or agrument is that there will always be the good memories. Sadness and unfortunate times exist, but the memory of past happiness will bring us along.
3. The most compelling passage for me is the 6th stanza in the poem. "..what you have done...the ground is rich with history..."
4. Metaphors are used throughout the passage and throughout the entire poem. The perennial herbs refer to the ability of human's to see something that is beautiful through so much tragedy. 5. The last line in the stanza rhymes slightly with itself, making it easier for the line to roll off the reader's tongue.
6. The use of the metaphors and the rhythmic patterns add to the message of the text. The use of these techniques helps add life to the vegetation and the idea of rebirth in the poem.
2.) A developed thesis:
This paper will argue that it is human nature to want to see something that is good in something that has perished, even if it takes a little help from others along the way, by using the metaphors of nature and flowers.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Sonny's Blues-Darkness
pg. 17
"I stared at it in the swinging lights of the subway car." The story starts off in an assumingly not well lit subway. Swinging lights means the lighting is not stable, and one would probably have to squint to read something. Because the story starts off with a dark, gloomy setting, one can also assume that the narrator's life at this point is not full and happy. There is already a darkenss in his life.
pg. 20
"But now I feel like a man who's been trying to climb out of some deep, real deep and funky hole and just saw the sun up there, outside. I got to get outside." This quote if from Sonny's letter to his brother. By seeing the light outside, it means that Sonny is trapped inside in the darkness. The darkness is referring to his drug addiction and new life in rehab. This quote is somewhat uplifting because Sonny can see the positive of the situation. He sees where he should be and strives to be there.
pg. 24
"Daddy was like a crazy man that night and for many a night thereafter. He says he never in his life seen anything as dark as that road after the lights of that car had gone away." The narrator's mother is telling him about his father when his uncle was killed. The darkness of the road could mean that the father now felt so empty, alone, and desperate. The darkness could represent the realization of the true prejudice from the white race. The darkness could represent the ultimate sadness that his father felt that night.
pg. 29
"I was sitting in the living room in the dark by myself, and I suddenly thought of Sonny. My trouble made his real." This quote is right after Gracie's funeral. The darkness from the funeral seems to hover in the room. I picture an absolutely still, quiet, and dark room. The sadness made the narrator think of his brother, which makes the seriousness of Sonny's situation even more real.
"I stared at it in the swinging lights of the subway car." The story starts off in an assumingly not well lit subway. Swinging lights means the lighting is not stable, and one would probably have to squint to read something. Because the story starts off with a dark, gloomy setting, one can also assume that the narrator's life at this point is not full and happy. There is already a darkenss in his life.
pg. 20
"But now I feel like a man who's been trying to climb out of some deep, real deep and funky hole and just saw the sun up there, outside. I got to get outside." This quote if from Sonny's letter to his brother. By seeing the light outside, it means that Sonny is trapped inside in the darkness. The darkness is referring to his drug addiction and new life in rehab. This quote is somewhat uplifting because Sonny can see the positive of the situation. He sees where he should be and strives to be there.
pg. 24
"Daddy was like a crazy man that night and for many a night thereafter. He says he never in his life seen anything as dark as that road after the lights of that car had gone away." The narrator's mother is telling him about his father when his uncle was killed. The darkness of the road could mean that the father now felt so empty, alone, and desperate. The darkness could represent the realization of the true prejudice from the white race. The darkness could represent the ultimate sadness that his father felt that night.
pg. 29
"I was sitting in the living room in the dark by myself, and I suddenly thought of Sonny. My trouble made his real." This quote is right after Gracie's funeral. The darkness from the funeral seems to hover in the room. I picture an absolutely still, quiet, and dark room. The sadness made the narrator think of his brother, which makes the seriousness of Sonny's situation even more real.
Inhabiting and Transforming a Poem - Handout #3
1.Character
You're a girl
and you'd better not forget
that when you step over the threshold of your house
men will look askance at you.
When you keep on walking down the lane
men will follow you and whistle.
When you cross the lane and step onto the main road
men will revile you and call you a loose woman.
If you've got no character
you'll turn back,
and if not
you'll keep going
as you're going now.
2. Why are women faced in such a negative light by men? My first reaction was of a sort of anger. Women are absolutely not just for men or men's pleasure. However, once done with the poem, I had a positive attitute towards the narrator. The narrator realizes the negativity that some women face daily. The narrator is telling the woman to stay strong and ignore any insults or negativity. The narrator also says to keep going as you are right now, meaning that the woman she is speaking to IS strong and he acknowledges that.
3. As a woman, you have to realize that men will talk to you poorly and think of you in a negative light because many of them feel superior. However, you must ignore this and keep living your life the right way, because you are strong and you will get past the negativity.
4. The narrator is an older woman, maybe around 80 years old, who is full of wisdom. The narrator is speaking to a young girl, anywhere from 12 to 20 years old, who has just been given more freedom in her life. The speaker and the listener may not have an extremely close relationship, but the two respect each other. If they didn't respect each other, the narrator would not have been speaking in such gentle diction.
5. I feel that the theme of the poem is to live your life the way you feel is right and ignore the negativity, because you cannot please everybody. There will always be critics, and the best thing you can do is learn from the critics instead of being pushed down by them. I think that this is the theme because the narrator tells the girl to keep going, as she is going now. The narrator approves of how the girl lives her life now and encourages her to keep doing the same thing.
You're a girl
and you'd better not forget
that when you step over the threshold of your house
men will look askance at you.
When you keep on walking down the lane
men will follow you and whistle.
When you cross the lane and step onto the main road
men will revile you and call you a loose woman.
If you've got no character
you'll turn back,
and if not
you'll keep going
as you're going now.
2. Why are women faced in such a negative light by men? My first reaction was of a sort of anger. Women are absolutely not just for men or men's pleasure. However, once done with the poem, I had a positive attitute towards the narrator. The narrator realizes the negativity that some women face daily. The narrator is telling the woman to stay strong and ignore any insults or negativity. The narrator also says to keep going as you are right now, meaning that the woman she is speaking to IS strong and he acknowledges that.
3. As a woman, you have to realize that men will talk to you poorly and think of you in a negative light because many of them feel superior. However, you must ignore this and keep living your life the right way, because you are strong and you will get past the negativity.
4. The narrator is an older woman, maybe around 80 years old, who is full of wisdom. The narrator is speaking to a young girl, anywhere from 12 to 20 years old, who has just been given more freedom in her life. The speaker and the listener may not have an extremely close relationship, but the two respect each other. If they didn't respect each other, the narrator would not have been speaking in such gentle diction.
5. I feel that the theme of the poem is to live your life the way you feel is right and ignore the negativity, because you cannot please everybody. There will always be critics, and the best thing you can do is learn from the critics instead of being pushed down by them. I think that this is the theme because the narrator tells the girl to keep going, as she is going now. The narrator approves of how the girl lives her life now and encourages her to keep doing the same thing.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
VideoTape; CR 87-90
This is an interesting piece because it discusses several different ideas. The idea of an innocent youth having to face the sad reality of the world is portrayed through the little girl with the video camera. She was simply focusing on a complete stranger in a nearby car. However, the cruelty of another stranger corrupted her childhood.
The piece also discusses the idea of not being able to look away from something that is tragic. The negativity also feeds into each of us, which is shown by us wanting to bring other people to watch the tragedy over and over again. One simply cannot stop watching the complete sadness that exists. This represents that we cannot escape the sadness either. We must face it.
The piece also discusses the idea of not being able to look away from something that is tragic. The negativity also feeds into each of us, which is shown by us wanting to bring other people to watch the tragedy over and over again. One simply cannot stop watching the complete sadness that exists. This represents that we cannot escape the sadness either. We must face it.
Lost in the FunHouse; CR 37-51
The narration as a whole was very interesting. There are italics and spaces where there should be important information. With all of the information, the reader would know the timeset of the story.The narrator described what a proper writer should do or has done. He follows his statement with an actual example of each suggestion. It is interesting how the narrator says what should be done and then accomplishes it. Maybe this is how his reality is played out.
For some reason the description of the swimming pool stuck out to me. The narrator said that no matter how you jump off of the diving board, you will still end up in the water like everyone else.
This is true for life. No matter how people live their lives, everyone will still age. Everyone will face difficulties and have to overcome them. That is just how things work.
For some reason the description of the swimming pool stuck out to me. The narrator said that no matter how you jump off of the diving board, you will still end up in the water like everyone else.
This is true for life. No matter how people live their lives, everyone will still age. Everyone will face difficulties and have to overcome them. That is just how things work.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Sonny's Blues; CR 17-36
Who is Sonny? Something very tragic happened. The narrator and Sonny were close but something pulled them apart. By keeping the situation "outside me for a long time" the narrator wasn't acting as he should have. A good friend/brother would have helped because a drug addiction only leads downhill. An aquantance would be more likely to just ignore a problem like that.
It's interesting how the narrator used "head" when referring to the bathroom. That is a British word. A boy growing up in Harlem would probably have not heard that term.
"All they really knew were two darknesses, the darkness of their lives... and the darkness of the movies.." This quote really stood out to me. The statement is true no matter where one grows up. The children laughing in the playground is a reflection of the brothers' relationship. The main laughter, which is mocking and insular, represents Sonny, who has not made the right choices and even reminds the narrator of him. The boy whistling stands out from the crowd of anger, which could represent the narrator, who outgrew the rough childhood. It was also interesting that the teachers practically ran through the courtyard to get away as quickly as possible. This shows that the authority does not actually want to help the children.
Why did the narrator give the homeless man money? Did he feel sorry for him? Did he actually and secretly like him? Did he metaphorically want to help Sonny by helping the homeless man? He then feels guilty about the way he spoke to the homeless man, which could mean that he feels guilty for the way he has treated his brother.
The homeless man said "Don't nobody want to die, ever," in response to whether death and drug usage were related. This is interesting to me because it seems that drug users use drugs to escape reality and actually live. The occassionaly death seems miniscule compared to the living while high.
It was touching how the narrator reflected on childhood memories with him and his brother. He caught Sonny when he fell after taking his first few steps. This emphasizes the strong connection they may have had or should have.
It's interesting how the narrator describes their neighborhood. Many of the buildings and homes have changed, which helps to hide the physical damage that was done during their childhoods. However, as much as the physical has changed, the emotional damage and hurt can never be changed or disguised.
Throughout the entire story, major tension is noticable between the narrator and Sonny. This is emphasized when the two are discussing Sonny's wish to be a musician. He is not afraid to try something he thoroughly enjoys and fail. He has great persistance and will simply try again. When Sonny realizes that Isabel's family just puts up with his music, not even for him, but for the narrator, his world is turned upside down.
It is tragic that it took the death of his child to make the narrator begin to understand the turmoil Sonny endured. However, tragedy often causes unity. And sometimes it is all one can do just to survive.
I found it extremely ironic that Sonny is the character that is portrayed as a messup. He however has a huge amount of hope and dreams. The narrator is portrayed as a normal guy with a family and a normal job. However, the narrator is the character without any hope, who actually appears to be scared.
It was uplifting to end the story with Sonny's music. Within music, he found a family. He found himself through the music. Many people hear the music, but they only hear what they want to hear. It was a nice ending that the narrator could actually hear the music and hear Sonny's story through the music.
It's interesting how the narrator used "head" when referring to the bathroom. That is a British word. A boy growing up in Harlem would probably have not heard that term.
"All they really knew were two darknesses, the darkness of their lives... and the darkness of the movies.." This quote really stood out to me. The statement is true no matter where one grows up. The children laughing in the playground is a reflection of the brothers' relationship. The main laughter, which is mocking and insular, represents Sonny, who has not made the right choices and even reminds the narrator of him. The boy whistling stands out from the crowd of anger, which could represent the narrator, who outgrew the rough childhood. It was also interesting that the teachers practically ran through the courtyard to get away as quickly as possible. This shows that the authority does not actually want to help the children.
Why did the narrator give the homeless man money? Did he feel sorry for him? Did he actually and secretly like him? Did he metaphorically want to help Sonny by helping the homeless man? He then feels guilty about the way he spoke to the homeless man, which could mean that he feels guilty for the way he has treated his brother.
The homeless man said "Don't nobody want to die, ever," in response to whether death and drug usage were related. This is interesting to me because it seems that drug users use drugs to escape reality and actually live. The occassionaly death seems miniscule compared to the living while high.
It was touching how the narrator reflected on childhood memories with him and his brother. He caught Sonny when he fell after taking his first few steps. This emphasizes the strong connection they may have had or should have.
It's interesting how the narrator describes their neighborhood. Many of the buildings and homes have changed, which helps to hide the physical damage that was done during their childhoods. However, as much as the physical has changed, the emotional damage and hurt can never be changed or disguised.
Throughout the entire story, major tension is noticable between the narrator and Sonny. This is emphasized when the two are discussing Sonny's wish to be a musician. He is not afraid to try something he thoroughly enjoys and fail. He has great persistance and will simply try again. When Sonny realizes that Isabel's family just puts up with his music, not even for him, but for the narrator, his world is turned upside down.
It is tragic that it took the death of his child to make the narrator begin to understand the turmoil Sonny endured. However, tragedy often causes unity. And sometimes it is all one can do just to survive.
I found it extremely ironic that Sonny is the character that is portrayed as a messup. He however has a huge amount of hope and dreams. The narrator is portrayed as a normal guy with a family and a normal job. However, the narrator is the character without any hope, who actually appears to be scared.
It was uplifting to end the story with Sonny's music. Within music, he found a family. He found himself through the music. Many people hear the music, but they only hear what they want to hear. It was a nice ending that the narrator could actually hear the music and hear Sonny's story through the music.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
FreeWrite - Morning's Mood
what i was like walking to class, describe in colors.
This morning walking to class, I was tired, but on top of that I was realizing all the good things that have happened to me recently. While having a recently somewhat large disappointment/failure looming over my head, it's sometimes hard to be happy and excited for all of the good that exists.
Being tired in the morning is like a pale blue, kindof peaceful and content. There is a hue of yellow due to the gratefulness that exists but can't quite break through. There's also a darker blue that exists because of disappointment.
This morning walking to class, I was tired, but on top of that I was realizing all the good things that have happened to me recently. While having a recently somewhat large disappointment/failure looming over my head, it's sometimes hard to be happy and excited for all of the good that exists.
Being tired in the morning is like a pale blue, kindof peaceful and content. There is a hue of yellow due to the gratefulness that exists but can't quite break through. There's also a darker blue that exists because of disappointment.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Story Questions
Hills Like White Elephants pg. 128
4. Anywhere in the world in the 1920's, men were dominant in any relationship. This type of dominance was more prevelant in Europe and in Spain, where the story was set. This leads to the understanding that the woman would be more likely to agree with the man in this ordeal. Although she may not want to have an abortion, she will most likely go through with the procedure because of the man's pressuring. Due to the Catholic beliefs in Spain, an abortion is not an accepted situation. This fact also complicates the balance of power. The woman is most liekly torn between what her faith calls her to do and what her male partner wishes for her to do.
Girl pg. 146
5. The primary speaker believes that the world is a man's world. Women exist to improve the household of the man and of the family. For example, the speaker is advizing on how to set a table, how to sweep everything, how to cook and grow certain foods, and basically how to act like a proper and presentable woman. The speaker believes that women are subordinate to man. It is implied that a woman must do all of the work behind the man and still maintain a respectable smile in front of everybody.
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven pg. 16
5. The narrator's dreams signify turmoil. There will always be a slight turmoil between races. There will be a lasting tension between the Indian and the white men because of the conservations. There is a turmoil within the narrator. He was unaware of where he was meant to be. By stating that he knows how all of his dreams will end means that he has accepted that there will always be turmoil. The world will never be completely at peace. He has accepted the negativity that always exists. By accepting this unfortunate reality, he has opened himself up to the possibility of becoming happy.
4. Anywhere in the world in the 1920's, men were dominant in any relationship. This type of dominance was more prevelant in Europe and in Spain, where the story was set. This leads to the understanding that the woman would be more likely to agree with the man in this ordeal. Although she may not want to have an abortion, she will most likely go through with the procedure because of the man's pressuring. Due to the Catholic beliefs in Spain, an abortion is not an accepted situation. This fact also complicates the balance of power. The woman is most liekly torn between what her faith calls her to do and what her male partner wishes for her to do.
Girl pg. 146
5. The primary speaker believes that the world is a man's world. Women exist to improve the household of the man and of the family. For example, the speaker is advizing on how to set a table, how to sweep everything, how to cook and grow certain foods, and basically how to act like a proper and presentable woman. The speaker believes that women are subordinate to man. It is implied that a woman must do all of the work behind the man and still maintain a respectable smile in front of everybody.
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven pg. 16
5. The narrator's dreams signify turmoil. There will always be a slight turmoil between races. There will be a lasting tension between the Indian and the white men because of the conservations. There is a turmoil within the narrator. He was unaware of where he was meant to be. By stating that he knows how all of his dreams will end means that he has accepted that there will always be turmoil. The world will never be completely at peace. He has accepted the negativity that always exists. By accepting this unfortunate reality, he has opened himself up to the possibility of becoming happy.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Carolina Reader 01/28
Girl - Jamaica Kincaid
An authoritative figure is instructing a seemingly young girl on the proper ways to act. The speaker seems somewhat resentful of the girl because she does not appear to be a proper women. The reading emphasizes that women are expected to get all of the chores and cooking done. Women, especially younger girls, are subordinate in the civilization. The girl is reminded several times in the reading to not become the "slut" that she is becoming. All of the boyish games are looked down upon for a girl to participate in. The speaker once again appears resentful when the girl wonders if the bake won't let her feel the bread, as if the question is ridiculous.
The identities of the characters are revealed throughout the reading. The tone and the directness of the speaker enforce the authority in the tone. The girl's questions and statements throughout the reading reiterate her young age and childish actions.
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven - Sherman Alexie
The flashbacks in this reading made the text more interesting. The discussion of the speaker's ex-girlfriend made him appear more distraught due to the fact that she was "haunting" him. The narrator seems unhappy and desperate in many different instances. He is always searching for his home. Even after he goes back home to the Indian Reservation, he is not entirely happy and complete. He is still looking for a job and does not appear settled in his own home.
It is interesting how much pleasure the speaker gets from teasing the graveyard shift clerk. It seems that only when he can make someone else feel uncomfortable does he feel comfortable. The speaker does comply with the clerk's silent request to ask for another item, liket he Cherry Slushie. This brings a reality to the narrative character and assures the reader that he is inately human.
His nightmares reflect on the speaker's unhappiness with the turmoil surrounding his own life. Being Indian, he must face racial issues daily. The dreams about the war between the white men and the Indians reflect his discontent with the situation.
An authoritative figure is instructing a seemingly young girl on the proper ways to act. The speaker seems somewhat resentful of the girl because she does not appear to be a proper women. The reading emphasizes that women are expected to get all of the chores and cooking done. Women, especially younger girls, are subordinate in the civilization. The girl is reminded several times in the reading to not become the "slut" that she is becoming. All of the boyish games are looked down upon for a girl to participate in. The speaker once again appears resentful when the girl wonders if the bake won't let her feel the bread, as if the question is ridiculous.
The identities of the characters are revealed throughout the reading. The tone and the directness of the speaker enforce the authority in the tone. The girl's questions and statements throughout the reading reiterate her young age and childish actions.
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven - Sherman Alexie
The flashbacks in this reading made the text more interesting. The discussion of the speaker's ex-girlfriend made him appear more distraught due to the fact that she was "haunting" him. The narrator seems unhappy and desperate in many different instances. He is always searching for his home. Even after he goes back home to the Indian Reservation, he is not entirely happy and complete. He is still looking for a job and does not appear settled in his own home.
It is interesting how much pleasure the speaker gets from teasing the graveyard shift clerk. It seems that only when he can make someone else feel uncomfortable does he feel comfortable. The speaker does comply with the clerk's silent request to ask for another item, liket he Cherry Slushie. This brings a reality to the narrative character and assures the reader that he is inately human.
His nightmares reflect on the speaker's unhappiness with the turmoil surrounding his own life. Being Indian, he must face racial issues daily. The dreams about the war between the white men and the Indians reflect his discontent with the situation.
Sergey Esenin's "Golden Grove"
The two translations are obviously translating the same poem, but the words chosen by the different translators create a different feel for each translation. While they both use imagery to describe the hemp fields and the moon, the poems have quite a different point of view. Philip Nikolayev's translation left the reader with a feeling of content and satisfied silence. However, the translation from www.russianlegacy.com left the reader feeling anxious in the uncomfortable silence.
Although this poem is not one of my favorites, I prefer Philip Nikolayev's translation because of his word choice and depiction of the situation. The cranes flying South for the winter appears to be a metaphor for a refreshing start for the narrator. The traveling of the birds reminds him of his fun past, which contained a bit of traveling and wandering. Although both poems contain endings that emphasize silence and a long road ending, the russian legacy translation ends the poem with a forgetting of all past experiences, no matter if the narrator learns from them or not.
Although this poem is not one of my favorites, I prefer Philip Nikolayev's translation because of his word choice and depiction of the situation. The cranes flying South for the winter appears to be a metaphor for a refreshing start for the narrator. The traveling of the birds reminds him of his fun past, which contained a bit of traveling and wandering. Although both poems contain endings that emphasize silence and a long road ending, the russian legacy translation ends the poem with a forgetting of all past experiences, no matter if the narrator learns from them or not.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
In Class FreeWrite
Heart - love, honesty, beauty, passion, blood flows, life exists because of the heart's work, an essential organ, love is an essential part of life therefore.
Desert - an endless nothingness, completely alone, deserted, have noone and nothing to rely on, desperation, a desert is endless but in reality a person is trapped because there is nothing else, uncomfortable.
Universe - endless opportunities, a black space, cannot see much, stars, milky way, everything together, alone but not desperate, happy for the endlessness and opportunities, excited for the possible findings.
Shepherd - a leading figure, kind and peaceful, not wealthy in a materialistic sense, wealthy in happiness, guiding, goes out to find his lost sheep, religious in a sense that in Christianity God is our shepherd, will not let one of his own go the wrong path.
Desert - an endless nothingness, completely alone, deserted, have noone and nothing to rely on, desperation, a desert is endless but in reality a person is trapped because there is nothing else, uncomfortable.
Universe - endless opportunities, a black space, cannot see much, stars, milky way, everything together, alone but not desperate, happy for the endlessness and opportunities, excited for the possible findings.
Shepherd - a leading figure, kind and peaceful, not wealthy in a materialistic sense, wealthy in happiness, guiding, goes out to find his lost sheep, religious in a sense that in Christianity God is our shepherd, will not let one of his own go the wrong path.
In Class Warm-Up
I. Definitions
1. Close reading is to literally read something closely. The text could be for academics or for pleasure, but the reader is reading the text to analyze the words and meaning. The reader pays attention to every word that is listed and mentally discusses why that specific word was chosen. The material is retained by the reader after completing the text.
2. Pastoral refers to a figure in the church. It is a saintly figure that has religious ties.
OED DEFINITION: A person or thing associated with spiritual care; A person or thing associated with the tending of livestock; To play at being a shepherd or shepherdess.
Mistress is a woman who partakes in sexual acts with a man with whom she is not married and does not have a substantial relationship with. A somewhat derrogatory term.
OED DEFINITION:A woman, goddess, or thing personified as female, which has control over a person or is regarded as a protecting or guiding influence.
Nymph is a fairylike, womanly figure that lures and inspires men.
OED DEFINITION: A beautiful young woman; a maiden, a damsel; A prostitute; a woman regarded as a means of sexual gratification
1. Close reading is to literally read something closely. The text could be for academics or for pleasure, but the reader is reading the text to analyze the words and meaning. The reader pays attention to every word that is listed and mentally discusses why that specific word was chosen. The material is retained by the reader after completing the text.
2. Pastoral refers to a figure in the church. It is a saintly figure that has religious ties.
OED DEFINITION: A person or thing associated with spiritual care; A person or thing associated with the tending of livestock; To play at being a shepherd or shepherdess.
Mistress is a woman who partakes in sexual acts with a man with whom she is not married and does not have a substantial relationship with. A somewhat derrogatory term.
OED DEFINITION:A woman, goddess, or thing personified as female, which has control over a person or is regarded as a protecting or guiding influence.
Nymph is a fairylike, womanly figure that lures and inspires men.
OED DEFINITION: A beautiful young woman; a maiden, a damsel; A prostitute; a woman regarded as a means of sexual gratification
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Poem Dissecting
In the Desert (Carolina Reader pg. 344)
In a desert there is nothing. Everything is barren. All one can do is look into himself and analyze himself. You are alone in the desert.
The creature, is not human? Maybe it is so self warped that it is unrecognizable as a human.
Squatting is a pedestrian action. This makes the "creature" seem somewhat human.
Holding your heart in your hands causes a person to seem vulnerable. He is open for everyone to look at and see. There is no hiding. This also means emotions may be worn on the sleeve, which would be also unable to hide.
Eating his heart can mean that you're taking yourself in. You're aknowledging all that you are and are accepting of self.
The narrator shows concern. Maybe he is not selfaware or self accepting because he questions the creatures actions.
It is bitter means that he is bitter. He is saying that he is not perfect, that he has faults.
But I like it - But I accept it.
Because it is bitter - Because I have faults. Because I am not perfect. Because I am different.
And because it is my heart - and because it is who I am.
A Man Said to the Universe (Caroline Reader pg. 345)
The man is crying out to the entire universe. What he is saying he wants everyone and everything to hear. Maybe out of desperation? Maybe hoping that SOMEONE, anyone will answer him.
"Sir" implies that the man has respect for everyone else in the world. It may imply that he is a nice person. Stating his presence may be him asking anyone else to acknowledge his presence.
The "universe," which could stand for a generalization of civilization, replies in a formal diction. People as a whole realize that this man exists. It seems that they are asking why should they care, they are not responsible for him.
This reflects on the cruelty of the world as a whole.
I believe that Stephen Crane was attempting to tell people to stand up for themselves and take care of themselves because no one else will take care of them. It is a cruel world, and no one else will stand up for you if you don't stand up for yourself.
The Passionate Shephard (Carolina Reader pg. 424-425)
Let me love you, and love me back.
We'll show that nothing can stand in the way of our love. - seems like he's trying to persuade her.
Physical monuments may be a reference to a possible issue with them being together. Possible family fued? Maybe the poem was written in an earlier time period where social class was an issue. Maybe he is really a shephard and she is of a higher social class, in which case their love would not be accepted by many.
Watching shephards do their jobs - He's trying to seem above the shephards to prove he is worthy of her love.
Shallow rivers brings about a sense of calm and peace. A possible break from the chaotic world they live in. Even the birds would accept their love and sing them love songs.
He will do anything to prove his love for her. He will lay down flowers everywhere; roses, which symbolize romance, and posies, which have a beautiful scent.
He will even make a cap of flowers, which would be an intricate and time consuming task. He'll even give her a nightgown laced with beautiful leaves and flowers.
The wool nightgown is a reference to his job as a shephard. He shears sheep. By using the wool he has taken off the sheep himself may be another attempt to prove his love.
Wants to give her so many materialistic things all at once, as if his love alone isn't enough for her.
If these pleasures makes you happy, as if he is unsure if she loves him back. Maybe the couple exists in a time where the woman does not have any say in who she marries and he is trying to convince her and her family that he is worthy of her. He worries that he may not be good enough.
By asking her over and over to be with him and be his love, it appears that he's trying to convice her.
He is trying to show that their love is meant to be by saying that the young shephards would be so happy that they would remind the world every morning by singing about the love.
If he has proven his love sufficiently, would she love him back?
Strategies
Practice 6-D pg. 134
The name Black Elvis seems quite the metaphor. First off, having Elvis in the character's name is ironic because the character is somewhat reserved and offbeat, unlike the infamous Elvis who seemed extremely extroverted. Although Black most likely refers to the character's skin color, black has the same connotation in his name as in the title "a black sheep." He does not fit into society and is not immediately accepted as he is. This could be a reference to the historical Elvis as well. Elvis was not accepted by much of society because he broke the rules and did not listen to certain authority. However, he was eventually accepted by society and is now looking at as an icon in music and in history. This metaphor hints at the plot of the story. Black Elvis felt out of place for much of the story. It was not until meeting and talking to the Chinese Elvis that he began to feel content with the situation.
Practice 6-E pg. 135
Grandmother refers to the mother of my mother or my father. She is a mother who is grand. There is a certain regalty about her that is immediately recognized by others. She carries herself in a respectable way, and it would be hard to find someone who does not appreciate her kindness and inner beauty. She is a woman who takes care of others and loves doing so. She puts other people before herself. She is never selfish. She is happy and unconditionally loving.
I'm sure most of my classmates would have a similar definition as myself, unless an unfortunate situation occurred where one would not have met his/her grandparents.
In a desert there is nothing. Everything is barren. All one can do is look into himself and analyze himself. You are alone in the desert.
The creature, is not human? Maybe it is so self warped that it is unrecognizable as a human.
Squatting is a pedestrian action. This makes the "creature" seem somewhat human.
Holding your heart in your hands causes a person to seem vulnerable. He is open for everyone to look at and see. There is no hiding. This also means emotions may be worn on the sleeve, which would be also unable to hide.
Eating his heart can mean that you're taking yourself in. You're aknowledging all that you are and are accepting of self.
The narrator shows concern. Maybe he is not selfaware or self accepting because he questions the creatures actions.
It is bitter means that he is bitter. He is saying that he is not perfect, that he has faults.
But I like it - But I accept it.
Because it is bitter - Because I have faults. Because I am not perfect. Because I am different.
And because it is my heart - and because it is who I am.
A Man Said to the Universe (Caroline Reader pg. 345)
The man is crying out to the entire universe. What he is saying he wants everyone and everything to hear. Maybe out of desperation? Maybe hoping that SOMEONE, anyone will answer him.
"Sir" implies that the man has respect for everyone else in the world. It may imply that he is a nice person. Stating his presence may be him asking anyone else to acknowledge his presence.
The "universe," which could stand for a generalization of civilization, replies in a formal diction. People as a whole realize that this man exists. It seems that they are asking why should they care, they are not responsible for him.
This reflects on the cruelty of the world as a whole.
I believe that Stephen Crane was attempting to tell people to stand up for themselves and take care of themselves because no one else will take care of them. It is a cruel world, and no one else will stand up for you if you don't stand up for yourself.
The Passionate Shephard (Carolina Reader pg. 424-425)
Let me love you, and love me back.
We'll show that nothing can stand in the way of our love. - seems like he's trying to persuade her.
Physical monuments may be a reference to a possible issue with them being together. Possible family fued? Maybe the poem was written in an earlier time period where social class was an issue. Maybe he is really a shephard and she is of a higher social class, in which case their love would not be accepted by many.
Watching shephards do their jobs - He's trying to seem above the shephards to prove he is worthy of her love.
Shallow rivers brings about a sense of calm and peace. A possible break from the chaotic world they live in. Even the birds would accept their love and sing them love songs.
He will do anything to prove his love for her. He will lay down flowers everywhere; roses, which symbolize romance, and posies, which have a beautiful scent.
He will even make a cap of flowers, which would be an intricate and time consuming task. He'll even give her a nightgown laced with beautiful leaves and flowers.
The wool nightgown is a reference to his job as a shephard. He shears sheep. By using the wool he has taken off the sheep himself may be another attempt to prove his love.
Wants to give her so many materialistic things all at once, as if his love alone isn't enough for her.
If these pleasures makes you happy, as if he is unsure if she loves him back. Maybe the couple exists in a time where the woman does not have any say in who she marries and he is trying to convince her and her family that he is worthy of her. He worries that he may not be good enough.
By asking her over and over to be with him and be his love, it appears that he's trying to convice her.
He is trying to show that their love is meant to be by saying that the young shephards would be so happy that they would remind the world every morning by singing about the love.
If he has proven his love sufficiently, would she love him back?
Strategies
Practice 6-D pg. 134
The name Black Elvis seems quite the metaphor. First off, having Elvis in the character's name is ironic because the character is somewhat reserved and offbeat, unlike the infamous Elvis who seemed extremely extroverted. Although Black most likely refers to the character's skin color, black has the same connotation in his name as in the title "a black sheep." He does not fit into society and is not immediately accepted as he is. This could be a reference to the historical Elvis as well. Elvis was not accepted by much of society because he broke the rules and did not listen to certain authority. However, he was eventually accepted by society and is now looking at as an icon in music and in history. This metaphor hints at the plot of the story. Black Elvis felt out of place for much of the story. It was not until meeting and talking to the Chinese Elvis that he began to feel content with the situation.
Practice 6-E pg. 135
Grandmother refers to the mother of my mother or my father. She is a mother who is grand. There is a certain regalty about her that is immediately recognized by others. She carries herself in a respectable way, and it would be hard to find someone who does not appreciate her kindness and inner beauty. She is a woman who takes care of others and loves doing so. She puts other people before herself. She is never selfish. She is happy and unconditionally loving.
I'm sure most of my classmates would have a similar definition as myself, unless an unfortunate situation occurred where one would not have met his/her grandparents.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Strategies Notes - pg. 59-75; pg. 81-90
Pleasure Reading vs. Academic Reading
- gain different things during different readings /different purposes
- must approach texts differently
- active engagement = academic reading
- when reading for certain understanding and meaning in text
- passive readers - can't remember details, etc.; not engaged actively
- academic readings
- primary text - read for basic understanding; first text read
- secondary text - outside critics, etc.; helps build wordly understanding of primary text
Reading to Understand
- notice the plot, characters, setting, initial conflict
- strategies to better understand texts:
1. annotation - take notes in margin of text as you read; notes, commentary, responses,
questions; be selective in notes; good with poetry and fiction
2. skeleton outline - sketchy overview that's normally put into a less formal outline form;
best suited for fiction
3. summary - a restatement of ideas presented in the text; concise; states main ideas only
Reader Response
- reaction, thoughts - shape our understanding of text
- must have clear picture of emotion, not generalized idea
- create a "photo collage"
- a visual responce to verbal text; a list of impressions, emotions
- make a visual collage of written reactions; study guide & possible work of art
- helps reader identify patterns of repition & of opposition
- gain different things during different readings /different purposes
- must approach texts differently
- active engagement = academic reading
- when reading for certain understanding and meaning in text
- passive readers - can't remember details, etc.; not engaged actively
- academic readings
- primary text - read for basic understanding; first text read
- secondary text - outside critics, etc.; helps build wordly understanding of primary text
Reading to Understand
- notice the plot, characters, setting, initial conflict
- strategies to better understand texts:
1. annotation - take notes in margin of text as you read; notes, commentary, responses,
questions; be selective in notes; good with poetry and fiction
2. skeleton outline - sketchy overview that's normally put into a less formal outline form;
best suited for fiction
3. summary - a restatement of ideas presented in the text; concise; states main ideas only
Reader Response
- reaction, thoughts - shape our understanding of text
- must have clear picture of emotion, not generalized idea
- create a "photo collage"
- a visual responce to verbal text; a list of impressions, emotions
- make a visual collage of written reactions; study guide & possible work of art
- helps reader identify patterns of repition & of opposition
Monday, January 21, 2008
"Beyond Words" Questions
4. A genre is a categorizing method that allows the reader to group a text with other texts in the same genre. Texts are placed in a genre due to the similarities between the texts. For example, a sonnet generally discusses the chase of a man for a woman he desires. A sonnet generally contains fourteen lines. Texts within the same genre will have many similarities.
8. While reading Seamus Heaney's poem, I focused on the imagery and details within the poem. The potatoes being peeled and the water splashing are so vivid in his poem. The simple actions retold in such detail help portray the complex and strong relationship between the mother and narrator. The line describing the breath of both the narrator and his mother intensifies the closeness of the two.
16. There are several strategies that help the reader pay attention to details. Being able to identify details is important because a text can often be biased or can be from a specific point of view. One strategy is to always second guess a first impression because the text may be attempting to lead the reader into the wrong direction. Secondly, realize that the author and/or creator has put a lot of time and a lot of details into the work. There is most likely more to the text than can be noticed on first glance. Also, every reading of a text should be given the same time and effort as the first reading of a text. The second and third time of reading a text can often uncover details that were not noticed upon the first reading. Next, one should pay attention to the details and methods used in the writing of the text. How a text was written often depicts an importance to the story. Lastly, it is important to realize what may have been purposely left out of the text in order to emphasis a certain idea or picture.
18. A point of view is a way of looking at a text or an image. Points of view vary from person to person. A point of view can highlight and emphasis certain themes and specific information. However, one point of view does not necessarily tell a whole story.
20. I found the sections discussing the unique buildings and architecture to be especially interesting. I appreciate architecture because it is a form of art. Focusing on the Stata building, the statement discussing the metaphor of the unfinished and creative building materials and the creative and daring work that would hopefully occur inside stuck out to me. The idea that a building's look represents what the building is being used for is interesting and exciting. It is a new way to look at architecture.
8. While reading Seamus Heaney's poem, I focused on the imagery and details within the poem. The potatoes being peeled and the water splashing are so vivid in his poem. The simple actions retold in such detail help portray the complex and strong relationship between the mother and narrator. The line describing the breath of both the narrator and his mother intensifies the closeness of the two.
16. There are several strategies that help the reader pay attention to details. Being able to identify details is important because a text can often be biased or can be from a specific point of view. One strategy is to always second guess a first impression because the text may be attempting to lead the reader into the wrong direction. Secondly, realize that the author and/or creator has put a lot of time and a lot of details into the work. There is most likely more to the text than can be noticed on first glance. Also, every reading of a text should be given the same time and effort as the first reading of a text. The second and third time of reading a text can often uncover details that were not noticed upon the first reading. Next, one should pay attention to the details and methods used in the writing of the text. How a text was written often depicts an importance to the story. Lastly, it is important to realize what may have been purposely left out of the text in order to emphasis a certain idea or picture.
18. A point of view is a way of looking at a text or an image. Points of view vary from person to person. A point of view can highlight and emphasis certain themes and specific information. However, one point of view does not necessarily tell a whole story.
20. I found the sections discussing the unique buildings and architecture to be especially interesting. I appreciate architecture because it is a form of art. Focusing on the Stata building, the statement discussing the metaphor of the unfinished and creative building materials and the creative and daring work that would hopefully occur inside stuck out to me. The idea that a building's look represents what the building is being used for is interesting and exciting. It is a new way to look at architecture.
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