Monday, April 30, 2012
Slaughter house 5 blog entry 9
"They were noticing what the Americans had not noticed-that the horses' mouths were bleeding... The Americans had treated their form of transportation as though it were no more sensitive than a six-cylinder Chevrolet." Page 196
This quote seems to touch on tue stereotype that Americans aren't conscious of their environment, and sometimes malicious towards it. The Americans are oblivious to the injury of the horse. It cM be said that Americans are oblivious to many things. One thing is our national debt. It is 15.3 trillion dollars, and drastic measures to reduce this debt bubbles are not only at the front of our political discourse, but are rather apathetically thrown aside. This fact of American unawareness has earned some aware and responsible Anericans to be unfairly labeled.
Slaughter house 5 blog entry 8
"He got a few paragraphs into it, and then he realized that he had read it before- years ago, in the veterans' hospital. It was about an Earthling man and woman who were kidnapped by extra-terrestrials." Page 203
Here is another instance of parralellism between Billy's story and Kilgore's story. Billy is kidnapped and sent to a zoo on an alien planet to be looked at in awe by strange creatures. This parallels one of Trout's storys. The similarity ends there. Trout admits that his works are works of fiction, meant only to be read on the light of fictional awareness. Billy, though, maintains that he is telling a factual story. This is all well and good, but Billy lacks empirical evidence. He may sound convincing and thorough in his accounts of how stories, but that is not enough. Tangible proof is needed.
Slaughter House 5 blog entry 7
"Billy and Lazzaro and poor old Edgar Derby crossed the prison yard to the theater now." page 143
I notices the epithet used when speaking of Derby. He is poor old Edgar derby. Why? He is an old
Man. Primarily, though, the title reminds the reader of his death. We know that he will doe in Dresden, and the "poor" adjective invokes sorrow. It makes Derby innocent. This is also a bit of dramatic irony. We know a major part of his life, his death. We know where and when it occurs. Derby of course is unaware. Perhaps it makes us more sympathetic towards him because he is blindsided by death.
Slaughter house 5 blog entry 6
"it predicted the wide spread use of burning jellied gasoline on humans.". Page 168
I mentioned earlier that I believe events in Billys life are textually based in Trouts sci fi novels. First, there is the novel about fourth dimension creatures. This is reflected in the tralfamadorians. Another similarity is found in one of Trouts books, the gutless wanderer. The book describes the use of jellied gasoline on human beings from planes. This obviously connects the fire bombings present throughout the war. The main example is Dresden. I stick by the conjecture that Billy is delusional, and heavily influenced by the works of Kilgore Trout.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Slaughter House Five blog entry 5
"They could look at a peak or a cloud or a bird, at a stone right in front of them, or even down into a canyon behind them."page 115
I have to say, I enjoy the science fiction aspects of the novel. Extraterrestrial life fascinates me, and it is especially enjoyable to imagine the tralfamadorians and their world. I especially am interested in their perception of time. Time is not chronological to them; they see all time at once. I have never pictured time in this regard. I have always had the "arrow of time" explanation of time in my mind. I suspect Billy is really fond of this way of perceiving time, as it completely discourages an attitude of sorrow towards death. Death, which Billy has seen so much of in the war, is probably enormously scary to him. With the tralfamadorian interpretation of time, Billy can feel undaunted when approached with death.
I have to say, I enjoy the science fiction aspects of the novel. Extraterrestrial life fascinates me, and it is especially enjoyable to imagine the tralfamadorians and their world. I especially am interested in their perception of time. Time is not chronological to them; they see all time at once. I have never pictured time in this regard. I have always had the "arrow of time" explanation of time in my mind. I suspect Billy is really fond of this way of perceiving time, as it completely discourages an attitude of sorrow towards death. Death, which Billy has seen so much of in the war, is probably enormously scary to him. With the tralfamadorian interpretation of time, Billy can feel undaunted when approached with death.
Slaughter House Five blog entry 4
"'You seem older than the rest'" page 106
Derby and Billy are foil characters. Billy is young and innocent, and fights as a wandering child in the war, against his will (He was drafted). Derby is older and mature, and volunteered for service. Billy is tall and weak, with an awkward, unimpressive body. Derby is said to have a "good body," fit for service. Derby is strong willed, unlike Billy, who often wants to give up. Another contrast is that Derby dies, and Billy survives. This is ironic. The good soldier ends up dead, while the assistant chaplain survives. Billy seems to survive events, while others die (the plane crash). Perhaps, though, the brave soldier, Derby, got the better end of the stick. Is it better to live with the constant mental torment caused from seeing tragedy to such an extent, or is it better to die, and not have to experience crippling depression and reoccurring nightmares of war horrors?
Derby and Billy are foil characters. Billy is young and innocent, and fights as a wandering child in the war, against his will (He was drafted). Derby is older and mature, and volunteered for service. Billy is tall and weak, with an awkward, unimpressive body. Derby is said to have a "good body," fit for service. Derby is strong willed, unlike Billy, who often wants to give up. Another contrast is that Derby dies, and Billy survives. This is ironic. The good soldier ends up dead, while the assistant chaplain survives. Billy seems to survive events, while others die (the plane crash). Perhaps, though, the brave soldier, Derby, got the better end of the stick. Is it better to live with the constant mental torment caused from seeing tragedy to such an extent, or is it better to die, and not have to experience crippling depression and reoccurring nightmares of war horrors?
Slaughter House Five blog entry 3
"He came slightly unstuck in time, saw the late movie backwards, then forwards" page 74
Vonnegut's anti-war mentality is present when Billy watches the war movie backwards. Suddenly, the harsh reality of the war is reversed, and we see the war from a new perspective. There are no Germans heavily bombing and killing human beings, but rather German fighters "made everything and everybody as good as new." There is horrible machinery of war, infamously bombs used in raids, being dismantled and there is separating of "dangerous contents into minerals." The direction of war is reversed and a better society is built in the process. I believe Vonnegut is stressing the need for this to happen. He wants war to cease and society to progress past senseless killing. He wants to see humans helping each other, and holding a genuine desire to uphold the common good.
Vonnegut's anti-war mentality is present when Billy watches the war movie backwards. Suddenly, the harsh reality of the war is reversed, and we see the war from a new perspective. There are no Germans heavily bombing and killing human beings, but rather German fighters "made everything and everybody as good as new." There is horrible machinery of war, infamously bombs used in raids, being dismantled and there is separating of "dangerous contents into minerals." The direction of war is reversed and a better society is built in the process. I believe Vonnegut is stressing the need for this to happen. He wants war to cease and society to progress past senseless killing. He wants to see humans helping each other, and holding a genuine desire to uphold the common good.
Slaughter House Five blog entry 2
"The creatures were friendly, and could see in four dimensions." page 26
I believe this novel will turn into a sad case of dramatic irony. Already it appears that Billy's story of being unstuck in time and having had contacted extraterrestrials seems fabricated. Kilgore Trout's science fiction novels seem to have a significant impact on what Billy believes to be his life. In one of Kilgore's novels, Maniacs in the Fourth Dimension, the idea that vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural phenomenon are said to be real, but they simply cannot be seen because they inhabit the fourth dimension. Billy's tralfamadorian's parallel Kilgore Trout's four dimensional inhabiting creatures. An explanation from Billy's behavior could be that he is suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, causing him to detach from reality. Perhaps his brain is malfunctioning due the plane crash in which he suffered significant damage. His behavior could stem from a combination of both.
I believe this novel will turn into a sad case of dramatic irony. Already it appears that Billy's story of being unstuck in time and having had contacted extraterrestrials seems fabricated. Kilgore Trout's science fiction novels seem to have a significant impact on what Billy believes to be his life. In one of Kilgore's novels, Maniacs in the Fourth Dimension, the idea that vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural phenomenon are said to be real, but they simply cannot be seen because they inhabit the fourth dimension. Billy's tralfamadorian's parallel Kilgore Trout's four dimensional inhabiting creatures. An explanation from Billy's behavior could be that he is suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, causing him to detach from reality. Perhaps his brain is malfunctioning due the plane crash in which he suffered significant damage. His behavior could stem from a combination of both.
Slaughter House Five Blog entry 1
"I have told my sons that they are not under any circumstances to take part in massacres..." page 19
The narrator is oddly a character in this novel, and this is due to the fact that he discusses the creation of his own novel and its inspiration. The primary method of characterization for the most significant aspect of his character, his anti-war attitude, is indirect. He cautions his own children on the horrors of war and the horrors of the accompanying massacres. He even tells his children to "express contempt to people who think we need machinery like that," referring to machinery manufactured specifically for massacres. Also, the narrator unconventionally calls war a "children's crusade," which is in stark contrast to the traditional idea that soldiers are hardened heroes, honorably fighting for justice. Lastly, we can infer a deep resentment to war by the narrator when he repeatedly says that his experience in Dresden is too unnerving and horrific for words to aptly describe.
I believe the narrator emphasizes idea of of a children's crusade when he describes Billy Pilgrim, who is tall, weak, and not fit for war. He lacks heroic qualities and is often weak willed and ready to give up, as any child would in a war scenario.
The narrator is oddly a character in this novel, and this is due to the fact that he discusses the creation of his own novel and its inspiration. The primary method of characterization for the most significant aspect of his character, his anti-war attitude, is indirect. He cautions his own children on the horrors of war and the horrors of the accompanying massacres. He even tells his children to "express contempt to people who think we need machinery like that," referring to machinery manufactured specifically for massacres. Also, the narrator unconventionally calls war a "children's crusade," which is in stark contrast to the traditional idea that soldiers are hardened heroes, honorably fighting for justice. Lastly, we can infer a deep resentment to war by the narrator when he repeatedly says that his experience in Dresden is too unnerving and horrific for words to aptly describe.
I believe the narrator emphasizes idea of of a children's crusade when he describes Billy Pilgrim, who is tall, weak, and not fit for war. He lacks heroic qualities and is often weak willed and ready to give up, as any child would in a war scenario.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein Again
"why did I not expire!" page 144
Regret is a powerful emotion. I have felt it's sharp pains, as I'm sure you and everyother has. It wraps the mind in "what ifs" and guilt pours on you like an inescapable flood of water. Why did I do this? What if I hadn't of done that? I hate the feeling. Society often has instances to which it should feel guilt. For example, that we allowed Hitler, a known anti-Semite to rise to power. We turned a blind eye to many of his known atrocities during his rule. We need to learn. We need a common moral thread among our society, a set of common sense values that are unquestionably in the right. We need this so we don't go to far.
Regret is a powerful emotion. I have felt it's sharp pains, as I'm sure you and everyother has. It wraps the mind in "what ifs" and guilt pours on you like an inescapable flood of water. Why did I do this? What if I hadn't of done that? I hate the feeling. Society often has instances to which it should feel guilt. For example, that we allowed Hitler, a known anti-Semite to rise to power. We turned a blind eye to many of his known atrocities during his rule. We need to learn. We need a common moral thread among our society, a set of common sense values that are unquestionably in the right. We need this so we don't go to far.
"Of my creation and creator I was absolutely ignorant, but I knew that I possessed no money, no friends, no kind of property" page 85
Nature Verus nurture is a hot topic. It psychology, we discuss it frequently. It comes down to how much of a persons behavior you can attribute to inner traits and how much you can contribute to the situation. The creature argues in favor himself that he is by nature good, and by nurture evil. I understand his point. But I have to attribute it to his personality and inner dispositions. There are certainly others who experience crippling ostracism that don't buckle from torment and go on a killing rampage. I think the situtuation brought out the very worst in the creature. So, I do believe in the power in the situation, but the situation never justifies horrible wrong doing.
Nature Verus nurture is a hot topic. It psychology, we discuss it frequently. It comes down to how much of a persons behavior you can attribute to inner traits and how much you can contribute to the situation. The creature argues in favor himself that he is by nature good, and by nurture evil. I understand his point. But I have to attribute it to his personality and inner dispositions. There are certainly others who experience crippling ostracism that don't buckle from torment and go on a killing rampage. I think the situtuation brought out the very worst in the creature. So, I do believe in the power in the situation, but the situation never justifies horrible wrong doing.
Franks berry
"destruction of the best hope, and the purest creature of earth?" page 144
This moment is clearly the climax. It is the most intense, emotionally heightened moment of the book. For victor to suffer another loss, who is pure and innocent, and his love, crosses the line. Personally, I hate the creature. He is murderous and heartless. He fishes for sympathy like a selfish fool. He should thank Victor for giving him life. He has a right tO be mad at his creator, but not to the point of eliminating his dearest friends and family. That is heartless and is the work of a monster.
This moment is clearly the climax. It is the most intense, emotionally heightened moment of the book. For victor to suffer another loss, who is pure and innocent, and his love, crosses the line. Personally, I hate the creature. He is murderous and heartless. He fishes for sympathy like a selfish fool. He should thank Victor for giving him life. He has a right tO be mad at his creator, but not to the point of eliminating his dearest friends and family. That is heartless and is the work of a monster.
Frankenstein
"'You are my creator, but I am your master'" page122
This quote is very ironic. It reversed the role of power in life situations. Traditionally, the creator is the master. Thiests all hold this view; the view that the creator is inherently a master because of their power of creation. It is the same situation with the family. We respect out elders. Our mother and father created us, and we should be submissive to their will. This is why many listen to what their parents have to say. I just find it odd that the creation declares superiory of the creator, for without the creator, there would be no creation.
This quote is very ironic. It reversed the role of power in life situations. Traditionally, the creator is the master. Thiests all hold this view; the view that the creator is inherently a master because of their power of creation. It is the same situation with the family. We respect out elders. Our mother and father created us, and we should be submissive to their will. This is why many listen to what their parents have to say. I just find it odd that the creation declares superiory of the creator, for without the creator, there would be no creation.
Frankenberry
"'CURSED CURSED creator! Why did I live? Why, in that instant, did I not extinguish the spark of existence which you had so wantonly bestowed?'"
It appears that the creature, in an effort to shield himself from ragefilled scorn, tries to tell his story so that he is seen as a victim. I don't sympathize with him. Those who don't let their immiedate, emotional reaction take hold of their thinking will realize that this creature is a murderer and should be given due punishment. This is not to say I am callous or unable to walk in another's shoes and understand the extent of the path they walk in life. I just don't feel sympathy for murderers. I do believe, though, we shouldn't put people in situations with extreme ostracism. It can push people over the edge into criminal behavior.
It appears that the creature, in an effort to shield himself from ragefilled scorn, tries to tell his story so that he is seen as a victim. I don't sympathize with him. Those who don't let their immiedate, emotional reaction take hold of their thinking will realize that this creature is a murderer and should be given due punishment. This is not to say I am callous or unable to walk in another's shoes and understand the extent of the path they walk in life. I just don't feel sympathy for murderers. I do believe, though, we shouldn't put people in situations with extreme ostracism. It can push people over the edge into criminal behavior.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Frankenstein
"I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret." page 31
For my last blog I will speak with opinion. My main problem with the novel is that it doesn't go into the re-animation process. I know the author doesn't really know how to bring the dead to life, but it would be interesting to read about a fabricated process of science. It seems to me that the author didnt know how to explain how the re-animation worked, so she coped out and left the reader wondering. At any rate, I don't see the reason for the frame story. It seems to serve no purpose. The novel could have just been the unveiled recollection of a man with a fantastic, horrifying life.
For my last blog I will speak with opinion. My main problem with the novel is that it doesn't go into the re-animation process. I know the author doesn't really know how to bring the dead to life, but it would be interesting to read about a fabricated process of science. It seems to me that the author didnt know how to explain how the re-animation worked, so she coped out and left the reader wondering. At any rate, I don't see the reason for the frame story. It seems to serve no purpose. The novel could have just been the unveiled recollection of a man with a fantastic, horrifying life.
"'This trait of kindness moved me'" page 78
The creatures contention that he was born with a benevolent disposition brings up the question of nature versus nurture. Victor confidently believes that Victor is innately evil, and the creature contends, and offers anecdotal evidence, that he was born a kind man..thing monster. Personally, I'm inclined to believe the monster. Provided that his story is true, it does seem that he was born with a friendly attitude. The situation, though, must've driven him to kill. I believe it was the ostracism that he experienced due to the horrified responses to his deformity.
The creatures contention that he was born with a benevolent disposition brings up the question of nature versus nurture. Victor confidently believes that Victor is innately evil, and the creature contends, and offers anecdotal evidence, that he was born a kind man..thing monster. Personally, I'm inclined to believe the monster. Provided that his story is true, it does seem that he was born with a friendly attitude. The situation, though, must've driven him to kill. I believe it was the ostracism that he experienced due to the horrified responses to his deformity.
Frankenstein
"the print of the murderer's finger was on his neck" page 47
Only two things are certain in life, death and taxes. In this case the book heavily presents death repeatedly. Beaufort died, resulting indirectly to the existence of Victor. Victor's mother died. William is murdered. Justine is put to death. The results of the early deaths can be bridged to positivity. Beaufort died, but out of his death flourished a loving relationship that planted the seed for Victor's birth. Victor's mother dies, but her death illuminates her benevolent disposition. The last two deaths resulted from and evil deed, only present grief.
Only two things are certain in life, death and taxes. In this case the book heavily presents death repeatedly. Beaufort died, resulting indirectly to the existence of Victor. Victor's mother died. William is murdered. Justine is put to death. The results of the early deaths can be bridged to positivity. Beaufort died, but out of his death flourished a loving relationship that planted the seed for Victor's birth. Victor's mother dies, but her death illuminates her benevolent disposition. The last two deaths resulted from and evil deed, only present grief.
Frankenstein blog II
"This, to my mother, washer than a duty; it was a necessity, a passion- remembering what she had suffered, and how she has been relieved"
Caroline practices benevolence in making it a point to visit slum parts of her country, of which she used to be aquatinted with. She adopts a poverty stricken orphan. This is a truly selfless act, and a brave one. A respected family back in that time would not be likely to adopt a poor orphan girl. Another example of benevolence is when Caroline contracts an illness because she refused to leave Elizibeth, I'll, alone. She comforted her at her bedside, and ultimately payed the price for a selfless act. Another example, though further in the novel, is the creatures benevolence towards the owners of a shed of which he dwelled him. The monster on his own accord would gather extra fire work for the owners. It is good to see benevolence in literature. Benevolence should be talked about, and encouraged. It is the only hope.
Caroline practices benevolence in making it a point to visit slum parts of her country, of which she used to be aquatinted with. She adopts a poverty stricken orphan. This is a truly selfless act, and a brave one. A respected family back in that time would not be likely to adopt a poor orphan girl. Another example of benevolence is when Caroline contracts an illness because she refused to leave Elizibeth, I'll, alone. She comforted her at her bedside, and ultimately payed the price for a selfless act. Another example, though further in the novel, is the creatures benevolence towards the owners of a shed of which he dwelled him. The monster on his own accord would gather extra fire work for the owners. It is good to see benevolence in literature. Benevolence should be talked about, and encouraged. It is the only hope.
Frankenstein blog 1
"'Unhappy man! Do you share my madness?'" page 12
I guess I'll take the suggestions you offered and speak of some motifs, specifically solitude. The first sense of solitude revealed comes from Walton's complaint of not having friends. He has no one to share his moments of grief and elation along his trip. A second instance of solitude is revealed when Victor comes along. Victor confesses his "madness" and instantly bonds with Walton through a mutual sense of alienation.
Anyway, I thought it was interesting that the chosen destination of Walton's journey was the north pole. The barren and vast sea of white seems so lifeless and evokes in me a sense of lonliness. Also, based on playful conjecture, I theorize that Victor creates the creature because he simply wants a pal.
I guess I'll take the suggestions you offered and speak of some motifs, specifically solitude. The first sense of solitude revealed comes from Walton's complaint of not having friends. He has no one to share his moments of grief and elation along his trip. A second instance of solitude is revealed when Victor comes along. Victor confesses his "madness" and instantly bonds with Walton through a mutual sense of alienation.
Anyway, I thought it was interesting that the chosen destination of Walton's journey was the north pole. The barren and vast sea of white seems so lifeless and evokes in me a sense of lonliness. Also, based on playful conjecture, I theorize that Victor creates the creature because he simply wants a pal.
Monday, March 5, 2012
DOASM
"He had all the wrong dreams. All, all, wrong."
Biff reveals that willy seemed genuinely content when working with his hands doing blue collar work, such as planting a garden. All his life, though, Willy pursued the White collar route of an esteemed business man. Biff says that Willy had the wrong dreams. I just want to write about the effect of social pressures on how people turn out to be. Willy had been bombarded with this ideal image of the American family and all it's riches. He felt like it was his duty, even though he didn't find happiness. He enjoyed working with his hands, but strayed from that lifestyle because of society's lack of respect for that sort of work. Society can be a menace sometimes, making us feel like we must be a certain way. We are told how to dress and look, or what to do with our lives. Sometimes, the results are shattering. For example, many women in modeling magazines have their photos tampered with and photoshopped to look skinny and unnatural. This puts in the head of women an idealized version of women. This has contributed to low self esteem and cases of bulimia and anorexia as women try to fit the mold that society wants them to fit. That's my rant. Society can be the menace, not always a person being a menace to society.
Biff reveals that willy seemed genuinely content when working with his hands doing blue collar work, such as planting a garden. All his life, though, Willy pursued the White collar route of an esteemed business man. Biff says that Willy had the wrong dreams. I just want to write about the effect of social pressures on how people turn out to be. Willy had been bombarded with this ideal image of the American family and all it's riches. He felt like it was his duty, even though he didn't find happiness. He enjoyed working with his hands, but strayed from that lifestyle because of society's lack of respect for that sort of work. Society can be a menace sometimes, making us feel like we must be a certain way. We are told how to dress and look, or what to do with our lives. Sometimes, the results are shattering. For example, many women in modeling magazines have their photos tampered with and photoshopped to look skinny and unnatural. This puts in the head of women an idealized version of women. This has contributed to low self esteem and cases of bulimia and anorexia as women try to fit the mold that society wants them to fit. That's my rant. Society can be the menace, not always a person being a menace to society.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
The termination of life of a Marketer (death of a salesman)
"
That's just what I mean. Bernard can get the best marks in school, y'understand, but when he gets out into the business world, y'understand, you are going to be five times ahead of him."
After reading the play, I find this quote to be almost humorously ironic, y'understand. It turns out that Bernard reaches success and even has a case at the supreme court, while Biff is essentially a nobody. Therefore, they are foil characters. I saw this early on. Bernard always made a point to work hard in school and he encouraged Biff to keep up on his studies. You could call Bernard the nerd. On the other hand, Biff doesn't concern himself with grades; only sports and his highly esteemed slef. He belides these things will get him far down the road of life, but they don't get him anywhere. Bernard, though, worked hard and succeeded. Bernard had a better understanding of the path to achieving the American dream.
Side note, I really don't know why I'm up doing blogs. They're due Tuesday. I'm just bored I guess. Well...I'm going to sleep and hopefully have a dream in which I am iron man. Night
That's just what I mean. Bernard can get the best marks in school, y'understand, but when he gets out into the business world, y'understand, you are going to be five times ahead of him."
After reading the play, I find this quote to be almost humorously ironic, y'understand. It turns out that Bernard reaches success and even has a case at the supreme court, while Biff is essentially a nobody. Therefore, they are foil characters. I saw this early on. Bernard always made a point to work hard in school and he encouraged Biff to keep up on his studies. You could call Bernard the nerd. On the other hand, Biff doesn't concern himself with grades; only sports and his highly esteemed slef. He belides these things will get him far down the road of life, but they don't get him anywhere. Bernard, though, worked hard and succeeded. Bernard had a better understanding of the path to achieving the American dream.
Side note, I really don't know why I'm up doing blogs. They're due Tuesday. I'm just bored I guess. Well...I'm going to sleep and hopefully have a dream in which I am iron man. Night
Death of a salesman
"Biff Loman is lost. In the greatest country in the world a young man with such- personal attractiveness, gets lost. And such a hard worker. There's one thing about Biff-he's not lazy"
Willy's expectations of Biff reveal Willy's misconception about the American dream. In reality, it takes more than "personal attractiveness" and likability to live out the iconic American dream. It takes back breaking work and sheer determination. Willy has deluded himself To believing that good looks and a charming personality are the perquisites for success. This is why he is so spiteful towards Biff's turnout and why he is so centered around Biff's successful career as a football player and his flourishing social life.
Willy's expectations of Biff reveal Willy's misconception about the American dream. In reality, it takes more than "personal attractiveness" and likability to live out the iconic American dream. It takes back breaking work and sheer determination. Willy has deluded himself To believing that good looks and a charming personality are the perquisites for success. This is why he is so spiteful towards Biff's turnout and why he is so centered around Biff's successful career as a football player and his flourishing social life.
Monday, February 27, 2012
The glass menagerie
"I'm going to the movies"
Some themes struck me in the play. The theme that reality is hard to accept stuck me the most. Laura can't function in normal societal roles, so she retreats to her fantasy land of glass animals. She fabricates her own reality in place of the demanding, actual reality that stands intimidatingly in front of her. Similarly, Tom has an escape from reality. Tom constantly goes to the movies. He finds solace in a different world. He also finds solace in literature. These fantasy lands allow an escape without any real effort necessary. This is why I don't believe Tom makes a change in his life during the play. At any rate, reality can be difficult to accept. Sometimes humans need a break from the current insidious circumstances. I believe this is why people take up drugs. Drugs offer a temporary protection from reality. Reality is hard to accept, but alas, it is reality.
Some themes struck me in the play. The theme that reality is hard to accept stuck me the most. Laura can't function in normal societal roles, so she retreats to her fantasy land of glass animals. She fabricates her own reality in place of the demanding, actual reality that stands intimidatingly in front of her. Similarly, Tom has an escape from reality. Tom constantly goes to the movies. He finds solace in a different world. He also finds solace in literature. These fantasy lands allow an escape without any real effort necessary. This is why I don't believe Tom makes a change in his life during the play. At any rate, reality can be difficult to accept. Sometimes humans need a break from the current insidious circumstances. I believe this is why people take up drugs. Drugs offer a temporary protection from reality. Reality is hard to accept, but alas, it is reality.
The glass meangerie pt. 2
"A unicorn, huh?-aren't they extinct in the modern world?"
The glass menagerie is symbol for Laura. Laura is an extremely shy person, and therefore delicate, like glass. She though, under the right circumstances, glows, meaning she has her own eccentric beauty. The symbol goes even further. Laura is the unicorn of the set. Unicorns are said to be "extinct in the modern world." This aptly represents Laura. Laura is withdrawn from the world. She does not fit in with society. She is unusual and lonely like a unicorn. She can't survive in the real world, just as a unicorn, a fictional animal, cannot survive in reality.
The glass menagerie is symbol for Laura. Laura is an extremely shy person, and therefore delicate, like glass. She though, under the right circumstances, glows, meaning she has her own eccentric beauty. The symbol goes even further. Laura is the unicorn of the set. Unicorns are said to be "extinct in the modern world." This aptly represents Laura. Laura is withdrawn from the world. She does not fit in with society. She is unusual and lonely like a unicorn. She can't survive in the real world, just as a unicorn, a fictional animal, cannot survive in reality.
The glass meangerie
"You know it don't take much intelligence to get yourself into a nailed-up coffin, Laura. But who in hell ever got himself out of one without removing one nail"
I liked this quote. I think it relates to life well. To be analytical, I believe it represents Tom well. It is a symbol for Tom's life. He is stuck working a mediocre job, going through the same routines, to reach the same end, paying the bills. Tom feels confined. He lusts for adventure and something exciting and refreshing. Instead, he is trapped by his current, dull life of work and sleep. I can relate to this sentiment. Sometimes I feel so down because I feel like my life is on repeat. I go through the same mundane routines over and over, and for what? I feel a desire for something more exciting or purposeful. It seems like I don't have a meaningful destination. It seems like i follow the same beaten path of a mediocre life.
I liked this quote. I think it relates to life well. To be analytical, I believe it represents Tom well. It is a symbol for Tom's life. He is stuck working a mediocre job, going through the same routines, to reach the same end, paying the bills. Tom feels confined. He lusts for adventure and something exciting and refreshing. Instead, he is trapped by his current, dull life of work and sleep. I can relate to this sentiment. Sometimes I feel so down because I feel like my life is on repeat. I go through the same mundane routines over and over, and for what? I feel a desire for something more exciting or purposeful. It seems like I don't have a meaningful destination. It seems like i follow the same beaten path of a mediocre life.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
As you blog it. Themes
"'T is a fault I will not change for your best virtue."
I guess I'll talk about themes. Love is complex. Jaqueys thinks it's terrible that Orlando has fallen in love with a cross dresser, but that doesn't bother Orlando. To him, it's terrible to not love the cross dresser. For some, "love hurts" and for others, love is a positive obsession. I don't know if this is a stretch, but o well. Maybe sharksphere is presenting the theme of life having some pointless things in it. Perhaps, everything does not happen for a reason. I heard a debate about this sort of thing and I loved when a man (can't remember his name) likened his point to the cosmos. He said what's the point of the trillions of stars not providing energy for life? They are, he said, just very old fusion reactors delivering energy no one (except our own son of course).
I guess I'll talk about themes. Love is complex. Jaqueys thinks it's terrible that Orlando has fallen in love with a cross dresser, but that doesn't bother Orlando. To him, it's terrible to not love the cross dresser. For some, "love hurts" and for others, love is a positive obsession. I don't know if this is a stretch, but o well. Maybe sharksphere is presenting the theme of life having some pointless things in it. Perhaps, everything does not happen for a reason. I heard a debate about this sort of thing and I loved when a man (can't remember his name) likened his point to the cosmos. He said what's the point of the trillions of stars not providing energy for life? They are, he said, just very old fusion reactors delivering energy no one (except our own son of course).
As you like it. Act 2
"What, my young master, O my gentle master,
O my sweet master, O you memory
Of old Sir Rowland! Why, what make you here?
Why are you virtuous? Why do people love you?
And wherefore are you gentle, strong, and valiant?" (page 20)
I like the point you made about the plethora ( hate that word) of pointless additions to the play. Why does Adam seem to fanatically praise Orlando? It seems a bit excessive. Why does Oliver hate his brother? Sharksphere(lol) could intentionally act lazy. You said that he wrote this play before he started his major tragedies. Comedy's, I infer were so popular, and thus trite. Perhaps sharksphere is expressing his contempt for comedies by a lack of effort. The title then make since. I imagined a crowd of people begging frantically for a comedy and sharksphere hurriedly (not sure if that's a word) scribbling done a story, and then angrily handing it to them and saying in "here take it, as you like it."
O my sweet master, O you memory
Of old Sir Rowland! Why, what make you here?
Why are you virtuous? Why do people love you?
And wherefore are you gentle, strong, and valiant?" (page 20)
I like the point you made about the plethora ( hate that word) of pointless additions to the play. Why does Adam seem to fanatically praise Orlando? It seems a bit excessive. Why does Oliver hate his brother? Sharksphere(lol) could intentionally act lazy. You said that he wrote this play before he started his major tragedies. Comedy's, I infer were so popular, and thus trite. Perhaps sharksphere is expressing his contempt for comedies by a lack of effort. The title then make since. I imagined a crowd of people begging frantically for a comedy and sharksphere hurriedly (not sure if that's a word) scribbling done a story, and then angrily handing it to them and saying in "here take it, as you like it."
As you blog it act 1
I hope I shall see an end of him; for my soul, yet I know not why, hates nothing more than he" (page 5)
This play is a comedy and therefore should be light in conflict. However, there has to be an antagonist and a protagonist. They are essential to all stories. Anyway, I guess I would lable Oliver as an antagonist since us wants to see his brother die for no reason, and he even admits it. Orlando is the protagonist then, because sharksphere (I'm not gonna correct that, he couldve been a shark)gives us no reason to scorn him. On top of this, there is his brother, who the audience expects to love him, but who actually hates him. This brings sympathy and positivity to Orlando's character. A reversal of deep seated expectations of the audience can be powerful in swaying said audiences opinions. For example, when in brave new world, it is revealed that parents are non-existent and society is tolerant of this, I was like what a surprise, my deep seated expectations have been reversed, powerfully swaying me toward a negative opinion of that society.
This play is a comedy and therefore should be light in conflict. However, there has to be an antagonist and a protagonist. They are essential to all stories. Anyway, I guess I would lable Oliver as an antagonist since us wants to see his brother die for no reason, and he even admits it. Orlando is the protagonist then, because sharksphere (I'm not gonna correct that, he couldve been a shark)gives us no reason to scorn him. On top of this, there is his brother, who the audience expects to love him, but who actually hates him. This brings sympathy and positivity to Orlando's character. A reversal of deep seated expectations of the audience can be powerful in swaying said audiences opinions. For example, when in brave new world, it is revealed that parents are non-existent and society is tolerant of this, I was like what a surprise, my deep seated expectations have been reversed, powerfully swaying me toward a negative opinion of that society.
Monday, February 13, 2012
othello reflective blog
The enemy of truth is the friend of man. Men everywhere will use lies to their advantage, often resulting in strife for others. Hitler lied to Chamberlain, promising that Hitler’s lust for territory was satisfied and to be of no concern. In the song “Deceiver” by Amarna Reign, the vocalist expresses his resentment towards a person who lied to him and brought chaos to his life. These aforementioned examples prove universality in the work Othello, which reveals heavily the destructiveness of lies.
In 1938, Chamberlain put to use the practice of appeasement in giving Hitler, who had been aggressively seizing ethnically German territory, Sudetenland areas of Czechoslovakia. Hitler promised that he had his fill of land and would not pursue any other territory. Hitler lied, and invaded all of Czechoslovakia (Read about it here). His lie had left citizens of Czechoslovakia unprepared. The invasion was surprising and catastrophic. Iago illustrates the same destructive behavior in his lies to Othello. Iago says in regarding Desdemona “tis foul in her (IV.i.185).” Iago claims that Desdemona is unfaithful and wretched, thereby planting a bug of rage in Othello. Othello’s rage leads him to murder Desdemona. These lies told ruin the lives of others through their vicious nature.
The writer of the song “Deceiver” is inundated with rage at the one who lies to him. “Lie by lie you took my hand, the promises you made to me now bury me as grains of sand (metrolyrics.com/deceiver-lyrics-amarna-reign.html).” The writer wants to “rip the teeth from the beast (Lyrics to the song).” Being the recipient of a lie can cause chaos for the liar, as opposed to only the liar sitting back and watching his handy work unfold into terrible conflict. Thus, lies have two methods of bringing about bedlam. Lodivico illustrates the other side of the chaotic nature of lying. After revelation of Iago’s sadistic actions, Lodovico wants a sort of revenge. Lodivico says “the torture. Oh, enforce it (V.ii.378). Lodovico’s disgust at Iago’s lies is exactly the same as the writer’s disgust for whoever has deceived him. Both men feel the throbbing anger at their deceivers.
Othello elaborates, through the action, on how lies are often damaging in their results. Whether told hundreds of years ago or a day ago, lies have the same results. The liar leaves the recipient of the lie in the dark. This can cause harm. The recipient does not know a piece of information that they would want to know. A man in the dark can often go the wrong direction. The mislead person is likely to make a mistake, based on false information. Mistakes can be damaging. If one accuses their partner of adultery, based on false information, the partner will become irritated and feel a breaking down of trust in the relationship. If one is told by a friend that their day planned for spending time together is thwarted by work, and then one sees the friend out spending time with others, one will feel betrayed. Anger will replace trust. These aspects of lying are present in Othello, proving the timelessness of the work. Lying is lying.
In summary, lying is bad
Works Cited
1939, January. "In March 1939." GCSE Modern World History. Web. 13 Feb. 2012. <http://www.johndclare.net/EII6.htm>.
Amarna Reign. "AMARNA REIGN - DECEIVER LYRICS." Lyrics. Web. 13 Feb. 2012. <http://www.metrolyrics.com/deceiver-lyrics-amarna-reign.html>.
Perrine, Lawrence. “Othello.” Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound, and Sense. Fort Worth. Harcourt College. 2002. 1361-462. Print
Monday, February 6, 2012
Othello: Song reflection.
Deceiver by Amarna Reign
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gYw4xzSdHM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
The song "Deceiver" by Amarna Reign relates well to Othello's reaction to Iago's manipulation. One lyric especially hits home with this point. "Lie by lie you took my hand." Iago did exactly this to Othello. He buried lies within him, leading the way for Othello to believe that Desdemona was unfaithful. This line expresses the sentiment of anger in saying "I'll rip the teeth from the beast." Othello similarly was livid at how Iago lead to the death of his beloved Desdemona. Othello's anger at the "beast" Iago is evident when Othello stabs Iago, but leaves him alive so that Iago may experience a long, and perpetual torture punishment. The song goes on and describes Iago's personality. "You see nothing but yourself." Iago is himself narcissistic and completely oblivious to the feelings of others. He manipulates those who consider him a loving friend. He will use anyone in any way to satisfy himself. He only sees himself, while others suffer intensely at his hand.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gYw4xzSdHM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
The song "Deceiver" by Amarna Reign relates well to Othello's reaction to Iago's manipulation. One lyric especially hits home with this point. "Lie by lie you took my hand." Iago did exactly this to Othello. He buried lies within him, leading the way for Othello to believe that Desdemona was unfaithful. This line expresses the sentiment of anger in saying "I'll rip the teeth from the beast." Othello similarly was livid at how Iago lead to the death of his beloved Desdemona. Othello's anger at the "beast" Iago is evident when Othello stabs Iago, but leaves him alive so that Iago may experience a long, and perpetual torture punishment. The song goes on and describes Iago's personality. "You see nothing but yourself." Iago is himself narcissistic and completely oblivious to the feelings of others. He manipulates those who consider him a loving friend. He will use anyone in any way to satisfy himself. He only sees himself, while others suffer intensely at his hand.
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