PLOT:
The plot of this story is about a young farm girl working for a higher class family. The story begins when Chris Watters (a man with a NEW airplane) lands across the street and sets up flying services. Edie takes interest to him quickly. This simple layout leads the audience to assume that Chris is Edie's future "husband." It turns out that Chris is simply a detour to lead the readers to false assumptions, so the ending would be much more suprising. If I were adapting this story into a movie, I would most definitely leave the structure of the plot the way it is. Audiences always try to guess the outcome of a movie, and LOVE when the ending throws a curveball.
POINT OF VIEW:
The short story is told in first person point of view. Edie, the hired help, is the narrator. She is looking back, recalling how she met her husband. Although Edie does give some insight on how the other characters act, I think it would be more efficient if she was an omniscient narrator. Some of the things that happen are not fully explained. If it were a movie, all these events would be acted out and the people's reactions would be seen. I think making it into a movie would add much more depth to the story.
CHARACTERIZATION:
The characters in the story are all very unique. I would consider them all to be round as well. Edie plays a smart young farm girl who thinks the lives of her host family are unessecary. She also proves to be innocent. Loretta Bird, the nosy neighbor, also helps to progress the story with her gossip..always announcing everything she hears. The parents of Edie's host family are said to be trusting, but very proper, compared to Edie. If I were to make a movie, the characters would for sure have more depth than they do. It is hard to characterize people in a story only 3-4 pages in length.
SETTING:
The story is set in a rural area in the earlier days of "airplanes." Although this family lived in a farm area, they were consider proper city people. Edie suggested the silly stuff they did as this "high-end, high-educated" family. The rural setting is signifcant in that Chris Watters sets up his camp and flying services in the field across the street. I think the setting is essential to the flow and the plot of the short story. Also, the interactions between Edie (farm girl) and the proper family she worked for help to characterize all the characters and their motives.
THEME:
I believe the theme of the work is to never assume life is like a fairytale. In the end, Edie meets her true husband (the mailman) while waiting for a letter from Chris each day. It's easy for the audience to think the ending will be another sappy, unrealistic love story, but it takes a totally different turn. If this were a movie, I think people would appreciate this ending much better. Of course it isn't a romantic love story like most box office hits, but it shows a sense of reality in life. It send the message that life is mostly normal and it's common to be "average."
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
"Stand By Me"
---------> My favorite quote in the movie! These kids are sooo funny! :)
PLOT:
There are not many differences between plots, but a rather significant difference of structure. In the novella, the narrator stops the action to tell a small story describing the time period or discussing a character. In the film, less interruptions are made. This helps the movie to progress much faster than the story, allowing the audience to follow along more effectively. Other than this difference, the plot is kept almost identical to the story. As I watching, I realized that "Stand By Me" is nearly word-for-word "The Body." I enjoyed this because I picked up on little things in the dialogue that I had not before.
POINT OF VIEW:
The point of view of a story and a film always differ in that it's two different modes of viewing. Similar to the story, Gordie is the narrator reflecting on his childhood memory in the summer of 1959 (small difference: the story said it took place in 1960!) Since movies do not have the constant descriptive set aside to help move along the story, Gordie's point of view is needed much less than in "The Body." Due to this elimination, I think the point of view is allowed to be much broader. We get more insight on how the other characters feel and react just by seeing their facial expressions. Gordie's point of view is more convincing because the audience can "see" for themselves.
CHARACTERIZATION:
The two differences I found within the characterization have to do with Chris Chambers, and Ace and his "followers." In "The Body" Chris is characterized as a "tough guy" and a sort of rebel. In the movie, we are shown something much different. Chris IS in fact tough, but not to the extent the reader will most likely perceive. Chris shows himself as caring and smart...one of the best friends the guys have. He also seems extremely more mature than the other three in the gang. Ace and his "followers" are characterized in the film and not so much in the novella. We catch a glimpse of them at the end when they attempt to steal the fame and recover the body, but not in the beginning of the story. Throughout the movie, the scene switches to them and their activities.
SETTING:
In "Stand By Me" the setting is centrally located in Castle Rock, Oregon in the summer of 1959. In "The Body" the setting is centrally located in Castle Rock, MAINE in the summer of 1960. In my opinion, these minor differences are insignificant to the theme or plot of either story. Also, the setting moves from present (the narration of Gordie as a writer looking back) to past (the central part of the plot) less than in "The Body." One of my favorite things about the film was that the setting fit the description perfectly. The movie was exactly how I had pictured everything in my head while I read the short story.
THEME:
There is nothing different I can analyze between the story and the film in terms of the theme. In both occurrances, the theme lies within the friendships and connections made between the four that summer. Like in "The Body", the film depicts Gordie and Chris' friendship being prominently stronger. This lies within both stories because I believe it sums up the theme. I do believe, though, that the title "Stand By Me" illustrates the theme better than the title of the novella ("The Body"). "Stand By Me" is exactly how I would describe the bonds made between the boys throughout the course of that summer in 1959...(or 1960).
Thursday, December 2, 2010
You're Ugly, Too
The character of Zoe Hendricks is rather weird. I cannot understand some of the uncommon things she does..such as the plastic bags in her purse. My first impression of her was that she had some sort of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and could'nt help herself. Another thing I can't comprehend, is her nature to tell joke after joke after joke. Her sense of humor, intertwined with her anecdotes and flashbacks, charcterize her perfectly. Although the majority of the story is humorous, she can be described as a lonely, depressed, and somewhat cynical character. Her main source of relief from herself (that she seems to hate) is that of sarcasm and cynical humor.
The Drunkard - Questions #1, 4, and 6
The title, "The Drunkard", is not seriously meant because a "drunk" is someone who is drunk all the time. In this case, the title is referring to the young boy (I assume somewhere between 8-10 years old) and his one incident. The boy goes out with the father one night, and when he turns his back he takes and drinks the father's beer. The irony of the story lies not only within the title, but also the complete turn around of events. The father is described as an alcoholic in the beginning of the story; however, the son is the one who drinks the beer. It is usually the son taking care of the father on the way home, but this time it is the father taking care of his intoxicated son. Most of the humor in this story comes from how the little boy (intoxicated) interacts with the old woman, his father, and the other poeple. The funniest thing to me was that his mother actually PRAISED him for drinking, so that his father could not.
Popular Mechanics - question #4
Why is this couple splitting up? Do we know? Does it matter?
The style of this story is what is prevelant, obviously not the detail. The author sets up the work so that we (as readers) come into the picture AFTER the "fight" or whatever has caused this. The audience is not given any hint for the couple's separation besides that the argument must have been really significant to cause such violence. I've never personal witnessed a separation like this but I know it goes on everyday.. There are now more broken families in the US than married ones. From my common knowledge, gathered from movies/media and such, I believe the content of this story is extremely accurate. This stuff happens more than I realize. I do not think the reason for the split is signifcant to understand the story because the possibilities are endless. What we can take from this story lies beneath the reason. I think the theme is conveyed through the universality of the event and how the information given to us was portrayed.
The style of this story is what is prevelant, obviously not the detail. The author sets up the work so that we (as readers) come into the picture AFTER the "fight" or whatever has caused this. The audience is not given any hint for the couple's separation besides that the argument must have been really significant to cause such violence. I've never personal witnessed a separation like this but I know it goes on everyday.. There are now more broken families in the US than married ones. From my common knowledge, gathered from movies/media and such, I believe the content of this story is extremely accurate. This stuff happens more than I realize. I do not think the reason for the split is signifcant to understand the story because the possibilities are endless. What we can take from this story lies beneath the reason. I think the theme is conveyed through the universality of the event and how the information given to us was portrayed.
The Lottery - question #1
What is a "lottery"? How does this title lead you to expect something very different from what the story presents?
Throughout the entire story, I was under the assumption that this "lottery" was a positivie thing. Many reasons led me to believe this. First of all, the lottery is a common "game" people play to recieve money or rewards, ect. My simple knowledge of OUR lottery made me infere that this specific one would be similar, or at least positive. Secondly, the way the narrator addressed the event was, in a way, complacent. No negative diction or hints stood out to me towards the beginning when it was being described. Finally, the attitude of the characters through me off guard as well. There is no great sign of fear or worry in the crowd. The narrator merely mentions a sense of aniexty, which could be related to positive excitment. Because the author does this, the ending is truly a moment of surprise.
Throughout the entire story, I was under the assumption that this "lottery" was a positivie thing. Many reasons led me to believe this. First of all, the lottery is a common "game" people play to recieve money or rewards, ect. My simple knowledge of OUR lottery made me infere that this specific one would be similar, or at least positive. Secondly, the way the narrator addressed the event was, in a way, complacent. No negative diction or hints stood out to me towards the beginning when it was being described. Finally, the attitude of the characters through me off guard as well. There is no great sign of fear or worry in the crowd. The narrator merely mentions a sense of aniexty, which could be related to positive excitment. Because the author does this, the ending is truly a moment of surprise.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
"The Body" Analysis
PLOT:
The plot of "The Body" is complicated, and it progresses rather slowly. The narrator of the short story is actually one of the characters reflecting on their past experiences as a young boy. The bulk of the story is about the adventure that Gordie, the narrator, and his friends embark on in the summer of 1960. They set out to discover the dead body of a missing boy their age named Roy Brower; they do this to seek fame and media attention. I think the underlying purpose or message of the story is how the four boys grew in friendship through this journey. The structure of the plot is what makes it progress so slowly. Many times throughout the work, the narrator stops to tell a small story describing the time period or discussing a character. These anecdotes, although somewhat helpful for characterization, make the story seem slow moving and harder to follow.
Point of View:
This short story is told in the first person singular point of view. Gordon Lachance ("Gordie") is the narrator, reflecting on his summer adventure with his childhood best friends. The story is told in past tense, many years later when he is now a published author. Small side stories are often told in dialog by other characters, but most all of the events occur in the eyes of Gordie. I'm not sure if he is considered an omniscient narrator or not, but he does have some insight on how the other characters are feeling. Also, I think that Gordie perceives things differently than his three friends. We are told that he is the smartest of the four, and we can also assume he has a brighter outlook on life. The story would be changed greatly if it were told in the eyes of Chris, Vern, or Teddy.
CHARACTERIZATION:
Since the story is told in first person point of view, the characters are mostly characterized by Gordie. Towards the beginning of the story, the scene consists of the boys playing cards in their clubhouse. The scene progresses slowly due to the narrators interruptions. During this time, all four characters are introduced. On page 295, Teddy and his incident with his "looney" father indirectly characterize his physical appearance as well as his war-like emotions. On page 289 Gordie tells about his brother Dennis' death - which illustrates his "invisible child" lifestyle. Page 301 consists of Vern's story about the "buried pennies." The way him and his brother, Billy, interact help to indirectly characterize Vern's personality as well. All throughout the the story Chris suggests his father's "mean streak" or "drinking habits" which reveals his family life. Lastly, Gordie directly tells the audience that Chris is the "toughest guy in [their] group."
SETTING:
"The Body" has many different settings since the narrator is recalling previous events and skipping around from past to present to tell significant stories. The story begins in the summer of 1960, in the four young boys' clubhouse. The bulk of the story takes place in this time period (centralized in Castle Rock, Maine) within a time span of 2-3 days. The different settings are the drugstore, the dump, the railroad tracks, the crossing at the river, the site where the boys camp, and the site of Roy Brower's body. Each of these places is given a vividly detailed description so the reader can easily imagine the scene. A few anecdotes are told about the boys in which change the setting and time period. Gordie also tells two of his stories, which have different settings and time periods as well. I believe the time period in which the story takes place has a significant affect. In the 1960's things were much different in all aspects of society than they are now. One would not consider age 12 a proper age to smoke, drink, curse, or go out on their own. The way the kids interact with adults show a similarity between then and today. The kids had little respect for adults, illustrated the best in the scene between Milo and the boys at the dump.
THEME:
In my opinion, the story has a deeper meaning than a boys' adventure. Many connections are made between the four characters throughout the story. The strongest friendship is prominently illustrated between Chris and Gordie. The two have secrets that only they know about each other, leaving out the other two at times. The boys have much in common: intelligent, stubborn, strong leaders, and good people at heart. The interaction between these two show the strongest bond of friendship anyone can have with another. Another underlying message comes from the fact that the whole story is a reflection of Gordie's most significant memory. It is evident from how much he can remember from years and years ago, that the adventure has replayed in his head many times. This shows that one should never forget their childhood memories, whether they are good or bad. The end of the story, telling how each of the boys faded away and ended up, also reveals the narrators motive for writing these stories.
The plot of "The Body" is complicated, and it progresses rather slowly. The narrator of the short story is actually one of the characters reflecting on their past experiences as a young boy. The bulk of the story is about the adventure that Gordie, the narrator, and his friends embark on in the summer of 1960. They set out to discover the dead body of a missing boy their age named Roy Brower; they do this to seek fame and media attention. I think the underlying purpose or message of the story is how the four boys grew in friendship through this journey. The structure of the plot is what makes it progress so slowly. Many times throughout the work, the narrator stops to tell a small story describing the time period or discussing a character. These anecdotes, although somewhat helpful for characterization, make the story seem slow moving and harder to follow.
Point of View:
This short story is told in the first person singular point of view. Gordon Lachance ("Gordie") is the narrator, reflecting on his summer adventure with his childhood best friends. The story is told in past tense, many years later when he is now a published author. Small side stories are often told in dialog by other characters, but most all of the events occur in the eyes of Gordie. I'm not sure if he is considered an omniscient narrator or not, but he does have some insight on how the other characters are feeling. Also, I think that Gordie perceives things differently than his three friends. We are told that he is the smartest of the four, and we can also assume he has a brighter outlook on life. The story would be changed greatly if it were told in the eyes of Chris, Vern, or Teddy.
CHARACTERIZATION:
Since the story is told in first person point of view, the characters are mostly characterized by Gordie. Towards the beginning of the story, the scene consists of the boys playing cards in their clubhouse. The scene progresses slowly due to the narrators interruptions. During this time, all four characters are introduced. On page 295, Teddy and his incident with his "looney" father indirectly characterize his physical appearance as well as his war-like emotions. On page 289 Gordie tells about his brother Dennis' death - which illustrates his "invisible child" lifestyle. Page 301 consists of Vern's story about the "buried pennies." The way him and his brother, Billy, interact help to indirectly characterize Vern's personality as well. All throughout the the story Chris suggests his father's "mean streak" or "drinking habits" which reveals his family life. Lastly, Gordie directly tells the audience that Chris is the "toughest guy in [their] group."
SETTING:
"The Body" has many different settings since the narrator is recalling previous events and skipping around from past to present to tell significant stories. The story begins in the summer of 1960, in the four young boys' clubhouse. The bulk of the story takes place in this time period (centralized in Castle Rock, Maine) within a time span of 2-3 days. The different settings are the drugstore, the dump, the railroad tracks, the crossing at the river, the site where the boys camp, and the site of Roy Brower's body. Each of these places is given a vividly detailed description so the reader can easily imagine the scene. A few anecdotes are told about the boys in which change the setting and time period. Gordie also tells two of his stories, which have different settings and time periods as well. I believe the time period in which the story takes place has a significant affect. In the 1960's things were much different in all aspects of society than they are now. One would not consider age 12 a proper age to smoke, drink, curse, or go out on their own. The way the kids interact with adults show a similarity between then and today. The kids had little respect for adults, illustrated the best in the scene between Milo and the boys at the dump.
THEME:
In my opinion, the story has a deeper meaning than a boys' adventure. Many connections are made between the four characters throughout the story. The strongest friendship is prominently illustrated between Chris and Gordie. The two have secrets that only they know about each other, leaving out the other two at times. The boys have much in common: intelligent, stubborn, strong leaders, and good people at heart. The interaction between these two show the strongest bond of friendship anyone can have with another. Another underlying message comes from the fact that the whole story is a reflection of Gordie's most significant memory. It is evident from how much he can remember from years and years ago, that the adventure has replayed in his head many times. This shows that one should never forget their childhood memories, whether they are good or bad. The end of the story, telling how each of the boys faded away and ended up, also reveals the narrators motive for writing these stories.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Once Upon a Time - Question #4
"Can you fix the blame for the calamity that befalls the child? What are the possible meanings for the repeated phrase "YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED"?
The tragedy that befalls the young child in the end of the story can be blamed on the parents or the "bad" neighborhood inhabitants. In my opinion, I mainly would put the blame on the parents. If these parents had not have went to extremes, the little boy would not have been mangled. On the other hand, if this extreme fence was was necessary (which I don't believe it was) then the parents should have taught and warned the boy about the danger the fence could bring. It was very ironic that the parents would try so hard to protect themselves, but ended up hurting the boy instead. I think the repeating sign "YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED" is really meant to be towards the parents. The sign was shown after each security item was added. If the parents had taken heed of their own sign, they would not have killed their son.
The tragedy that befalls the young child in the end of the story can be blamed on the parents or the "bad" neighborhood inhabitants. In my opinion, I mainly would put the blame on the parents. If these parents had not have went to extremes, the little boy would not have been mangled. On the other hand, if this extreme fence was was necessary (which I don't believe it was) then the parents should have taught and warned the boy about the danger the fence could bring. It was very ironic that the parents would try so hard to protect themselves, but ended up hurting the boy instead. I think the repeating sign "YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED" is really meant to be towards the parents. The sign was shown after each security item was added. If the parents had taken heed of their own sign, they would not have killed their son.
A Worn Path - Question #5
"Discuss the elements of plot and structure that dramatize Phoenix's journey. What are the obstacles to her quest?"
The vivid detail of the scenery and the senses illuminate Phoenix's journey. The fact that the journey is set in December (where its cold) makes it seem more difficult. The image that she uses a cane to help her walk also makes the journey seem harder due to her age and fraility. The point where she thinks she encounters a "ghost" in the field gives the journey a sense of suspense. When she realizes it's only a scarecow and she dances with it, a more lighthearted feeling comes about. Finally when she falls and meets the young hunter, the audience gets to see others' reactions to her. "..You take my advice and stay home, and nothing will happen to you" (page 227). This comment by the young hunter makes the quest a dangerous one. If he suggests she go home, the reader is left to wonder if she will make it to her destination safely.
The vivid detail of the scenery and the senses illuminate Phoenix's journey. The fact that the journey is set in December (where its cold) makes it seem more difficult. The image that she uses a cane to help her walk also makes the journey seem harder due to her age and fraility. The point where she thinks she encounters a "ghost" in the field gives the journey a sense of suspense. When she realizes it's only a scarecow and she dances with it, a more lighthearted feeling comes about. Finally when she falls and meets the young hunter, the audience gets to see others' reactions to her. "..You take my advice and stay home, and nothing will happen to you" (page 227). This comment by the young hunter makes the quest a dangerous one. If he suggests she go home, the reader is left to wonder if she will make it to her destination safely.
Eveline - Question #2
"What in Eveline's present circumstances makes it desirable for her to escape her home? Characterize her father. What does the memory of her mother contribute to her decision to leave?"
Eveline has many contributing factors involved in her decision to leave her home. Her father is abusive and very stern according to her - he does not approve of anything she does or even of Frank. Next, Eveline is stuck with the constant reminder of her mother's sickness in the house. She was always working hard, both in the house and at her job, which she received little money for herself because of her father. Finally, she mentioned on page 218 that everyone else who was close to her had left home. "Now she was going to go away like the others, to leave her home." I was surprised when Eveline decided not to go away with Frank. All these situations seem to be more than reason to get away from her present life.
Eveline has many contributing factors involved in her decision to leave her home. Her father is abusive and very stern according to her - he does not approve of anything she does or even of Frank. Next, Eveline is stuck with the constant reminder of her mother's sickness in the house. She was always working hard, both in the house and at her job, which she received little money for herself because of her father. Finally, she mentioned on page 218 that everyone else who was close to her had left home. "Now she was going to go away like the others, to leave her home." I was surprised when Eveline decided not to go away with Frank. All these situations seem to be more than reason to get away from her present life.
Miss Brill - Question #3
"How old is Miss Brill? What are her circumstances? Why does she listen in on conversations?"
In my opinion Miss Brill seems to be a middle-aged to older woman; however, she attempts to "pass" as a younger version of herself. In the beginning she mentions how she has to unbox her extravegant fur. If the fur was boxed away, maybe she wore it a long time ago and now she's bringing it out for her younger look. Also, she describes many people she obbserves as "old" (the "old couple") and other as "young". This gives me the impression that she is somewhere in between the two extremes. Miss Brill is living in France (foreign to her) while teaching her own English language and culture to others. She is mentioned to be constantly watching people and listening in on their conversations. I think this is because she is a lonely woman. On page 185 she says that "somebody would have noticed if she had'nt been there." She is making herself believe that she is wanted and not the lonely old woman that is described.
In my opinion Miss Brill seems to be a middle-aged to older woman; however, she attempts to "pass" as a younger version of herself. In the beginning she mentions how she has to unbox her extravegant fur. If the fur was boxed away, maybe she wore it a long time ago and now she's bringing it out for her younger look. Also, she describes many people she obbserves as "old" (the "old couple") and other as "young". This gives me the impression that she is somewhere in between the two extremes. Miss Brill is living in France (foreign to her) while teaching her own English language and culture to others. She is mentioned to be constantly watching people and listening in on their conversations. I think this is because she is a lonely woman. On page 185 she says that "somebody would have noticed if she had'nt been there." She is making herself believe that she is wanted and not the lonely old woman that is described.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Characterization
Each of these three stories have a distinct relation to the characterization. In each there are three main, very different characters, that are described either directly or indirectly. In "Everyday Use" Mama, Dee, and Maggie all have certain qualities which set them apart from each other - but these qualities help to progress the plot. "Hunter's in the Snow" consists of three characters whom are also different. These three men basically are the story. The way they interact with each other tells the story's main point, "shallow friendship." In "Bartleby", each of the scriveners supplement each other. For example, Nippers is crazy during the morning but Turkey takes over after noon. Gingernut is simply the errand boy.
Everyday Use
In this short story, Dee stuggles with her identity. Mainly a struggle of her heritage. She gives proof that she is unhappy with the African American side of her background. On page 175, Dee's mother gives a detailed description of her. She discusses how Dee always hated their old house, and how she was not happy until they had the money to send her to a nice preppy school. To me, this reveals that she is negative person and also very determined. I get the impression that she makes her opinion known and follows through with it. Dee surprises the readers when she spontaneously changes her name. This illustrates that she is more than accepting of her true African side of her heritage.
Hunter's in the Snow - question # 4
I think Kenny undergoes a major dynamic change throughout the course of the story. Towards the beginning, he is very rude and mean to Tubb. He also acts like an arrogant jerk. These men's friendship seems extremely shallow. For example, he almost hits his "friend" Tubb with the pickup truck and laughs about it. This was the very first time his character was revealed to the audience, not a very good first impression in my opinion. The reader immediately perceives him as a "bad guy." Finally, Tubb gets sick of his mocking ways and shoots Kenny in the stomach. Once Kenny gets shot, his softer side emerges. He immediately apologizes to Tubb and says it was all a joke. This change for the better only came about after a tragic event.
Bartleby - question # 4
Bartleby's constant and consistent response of "I would prefer not to" has little affect on Turkey, Nippers, Gingernut, and the lawyer's daily routine. Of course they are all a little taken back by his unusual response. When asked what he thought of the situation Turkey's own opinion was "Think of it?" he roared, "I think I'll just step behind his screen and black his eyes for him." (This was after twelve o'clock noon: his "crazy" period.) Nippers responded in a similar way - also during his different period of time. Other than there reactions, the men's routine was hardly changed. There had always been only the four of them writing and running errands, so Bartleby's lack of assistance went unnoticed most of the time. The main reason I think that the lawyer did not fire him after his first refusal was because he was a very quick copier. I also have a theory that he could not read, only copy words.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Similarities
"How I Met My Husband", "Interpreter of Maladies", and "A Rose for Emily" all have one thing in common. They each involve a direct relationship between the two main characters. In "How I Met My Husband", the plot is based around Edie and Chris Watter's interactions with each other. Although Chris Watters is not involved in the resolution of the story, his relationship with Edie progresses the story so that the main purpose (how and why Edie married the mailman) is revealed. "Interpreter of Maladies" illustrates the "settling" aspect of the story by telling of Mrs. Das' and Mr. Kapasi's interaction. If not for there conversation about life and its struggles, the story wouldn't convey it's point. Lastly, "A Rose for Emily" distinctly uses the relationship between Miss Emily and the people in the town to show progress the plot. Without this description, the unknowing emotion of the people towards Emily would not have added to the creepy affect. Each of these relationships play a vital role in the plot and structure of the short stories.
Interpreter of Maladies
This short story incorporates an important theme of settling for less. At the beginning, both Mrs. Das and Mr. Kapasi show signs such as boredem that may cause the readers to make inferences about their lives. It can be infered that these two characters might be annoyed or bothered by the way things are progressing for them..maybe a lack of adventdure, fun, or even love and lust. Later, Mrs. Das directly states (pg 162) the things in her life that have gone wrong. She claims she is extremely unhappy with her situation. Both of these characters act this way, but nothing is really done by either of them to escape their troubled lifestyle. If it were me, I would go off and find something better to do with my life than wallow in self-pity. Maybe they feel that they have certain obligations to uphold where they are now.
A Rose for Emily
This short story equals creepy. Webster's definition of creepy: "having or causing a sensation of the skin, caused by fear or horror; obnoxious, weird." My definition of creepy: "A Rose for Emily." Not only is the plot weird, the structure of the short story is also erratic. Narration skips around from past to present, event to event, and it is very hard to keep up. Although description is given of Emily's background, its not organzied well enough to easily interpret a motive for the events in the story. All that is really said about her family is that they are also weird, creepy, and possibly crazy. Obviously we get that. I do not know if the broken and unorganized structure has a purpose or not. To me, it gives the story more of an edge and adds to the unknowing and CREEPY tone of the story.
How I Met My Husband
The structure of this short story by Alice Munro is not what one would think of as typical. It begins by giving background of Edie, the main character. It also characterizes the other people who play a role in the story such as: Mr. and Mrs. Peebles, Loretta Bird, and Chris Watters. Next, Munro shows the progression of the plot by describing the events that took place between the characters, especially Edie and Chris Watters. I looked at the title and at their relationship to make my inference that Chris was the future "husband" mentioned. (I'm sure I wasn't the only reader to make this prediction either.) The story takes a huge turn on page 145 (the second to last page) when the mailman is introduced. After fifteen previous pages of description, the unrelated resolution is revealed. In my opinion, Munro does this structure for the sole reason to keep the reader on his/her feet and to receive the unexpected. It makes the story much more interesting.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
That time of Year
William Shakespeare was completely correct in his poem about the changing seasons, of fall to winter. The yuckiness of winter has a universal and timeless affect on people throughout the world. The speaker compares the season of winter to death. This common pairing of the two completely defines winter for me..DEATH! Three separate images are used to convey the tone. The color of the changing leaves, the fading sunset, and the glowing of fire are all imagery used to describe the undesired things that winter brings. Also, diction such as bare, ruined, lie, ashes, black, night, shake, and cold all help to show the speaker's attitude towards the dreadful season. The negative word choice proves a dark and sad tone of the poem. This is easy to understand and relate to because most everyone I know of hates the winter time where everything dies and everyone turns bitter.
Edward
This poem is veeeery strange to me. It is basically a conversation between a mother and her son in poetic form. The son kills a hawk, a steed, and his father. It can be interpreted that the mother had some incentive for her son to do this. The last line of the poem is a quote from the son. "The curse of hell from me shall ye bear, such counsels you gave to me, O." This proves that the mother talked the son into the murder of her husband, the only question is why? Also throughout the conversation, the son seems to be ashamed and remorseful of his crime...that would be why he is planning to run away from it. The whole tone of this poem is creepy and dark. Everything that is unknown adds to the suspenseful attitude conveyed. Also, the author is anonymous...
Lonely Hearts
I absolutely love this poem, it is by far my favorite in this chapter. The language is common and easy to understand. It also relates to many modern and universal experiences. The poem discusess people who are lonely and looking for someone like themselves. These personal newspaper ads all describe specific personality traitx that each person desires.
"Male biker seeks female for touring fun."
"..into music, Shakespeare, and the sun.."
"Successful, straight and solvent?"
In the end, though, all of these "lonely hearts" really desire the same thing. They all want/need someone to love. The structure of this poem also reflects this theme. Each stanza of the villanelle consists of two lines at the beginning in which describe the specific characteristics. The third and final line of each stanza are alternated between the two similar questions.
1. "Do you live in North London too? Is it you?"
2. "Can someone make my simple wish come true?"
"Male biker seeks female for touring fun."
"..into music, Shakespeare, and the sun.."
"Successful, straight and solvent?"
In the end, though, all of these "lonely hearts" really desire the same thing. They all want/need someone to love. The structure of this poem also reflects this theme. Each stanza of the villanelle consists of two lines at the beginning in which describe the specific characteristics. The third and final line of each stanza are alternated between the two similar questions.
1. "Do you live in North London too? Is it you?"
2. "Can someone make my simple wish come true?"
Delight in Disorder
There are a few things that really stick out to me within this poem. The varied length of the lines reflect the title - almost illustrating something disorderly. The speaker also incorporates many oxymorons in the poem. One main oxymoron is found in the title, "Delight in Disorder." Many might find it odd to find delight in something disorderly. A few other oxymorons are: "wild civility", "fine distraction", and "sweet disorder." These oxymorons reflect the main theme being conveyed. The speaker is talking to his significant other and gives examples of how she looks with everything out of place. The speaker then states that he enjoys the disorderly and messy way she is.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
My Mistress' Eyes
I am struggling with this piece of poetry. I understand that the beginning is supposed to be satirical. It mocks those men who lie to girls, telling them they are perfect in everyway. We all know this cannot be possible. Not everyone's "eyes are like the sun", and not everyone's skin is "white as snow". The speaker is trying to be realistic in describing his mistress. The part that I do not understand is why?! Why would the speaker call his mistress these things to her face? I know if it were me, LIE TO ME! No girl wants the truth! To all the males out there, LIE TO HER! We aren't perfect by any means, but we like to think so.
The last line of the poem does make a small compliment. "..I think my love as rare/As any she belied with false compare." The speaker is insisting that he loves her just as much, be he is not going to lie to her.
The last line of the poem does make a small compliment. "..I think my love as rare/As any she belied with false compare." The speaker is insisting that he loves her just as much, be he is not going to lie to her.
Getting Out
This poem is one of my favorites so far. Of course I'm a girl and all girls LOVE cute, sensitive, lovey things. But this poem is sort of a backwards love. I think it is very easy to understand because we have all been in some sort of this situation. Anyone who has experienced a break-up can relate to the speaker's attitde in the poem. The first two stanzas illustrate the actions that have previously taken place. "Exhausted, we gave up.." reveals that the couple has tried to work things out, they have tried to remain together. Things just simply were too broken to fix. "We held on tight, and let go" sets the tone into place. This couple has a great deal of love for each other, they held on as long as they could before things fell apart completely. The blame of this break-up is also shared between the two. It seems there is no bitterness about the other person, only sadness and regret of losing him.
The Apparition
I looked up the word "apparition" in Webster's Dictionary and received the following definitions:
1. an object or person appearing unusally
2. a visible spirt; ghost
3. one who appears or haunts unexpectedly
Each of these definitions reflect my interpretations of the poem. The speakers diction towards his ex lover is every creepy/spooky. He almost sounds similar to some kind of stalker? Words such as "muderess", "ghost", "repent", "scorn", and "threatenings" all reflect the tone of the work. The tone, in my opinion, is very haunting - made to sound creepy. Another aspect of the overall tone could be revenge. The speaker also makes an undefined threat to his ex lover in which reveals that he will make an unexpected haunting. This entire poem is sort of freaky for me. It reminds me of the movie disturbia in a way, about some freaky stalker rapist dude.
1. an object or person appearing unusally
2. a visible spirt; ghost
3. one who appears or haunts unexpectedly
Each of these definitions reflect my interpretations of the poem. The speakers diction towards his ex lover is every creepy/spooky. He almost sounds similar to some kind of stalker? Words such as "muderess", "ghost", "repent", "scorn", and "threatenings" all reflect the tone of the work. The tone, in my opinion, is very haunting - made to sound creepy. Another aspect of the overall tone could be revenge. The speaker also makes an undefined threat to his ex lover in which reveals that he will make an unexpected haunting. This entire poem is sort of freaky for me. It reminds me of the movie disturbia in a way, about some freaky stalker rapist dude.
Crossing the Bar
The main tone of this poem is that of acceptance. The speaker discusess going out to sea, which is a big journey of some kind. Lines 3-4 state, "And may there be no moaning of the bar/When I put out to sea" which indicates good weather and water conditions. This more broadly stands for easy travel and good fortune throughout the journey. The speaker also reveals the possibility that the journey is going to Heaven. "Turns again home", "Crossing the bar", and the "pilot" can all be inferred as terms that represent crossing to afterlife, back again with God the creator. The speaker is really accepting of the death that is inevitable.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Emily Dickinson is MAAAADDD
Emily Dickinson drives me crazy with her capitalization, her overuse of hyphens, and weird poetry. Of course most poetry has a somewhat not normal theme, but this is a weird one. Someone who is "mad" may refer to an insane person. (i.e The Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland -- that guy is pretty crazy.) The poem "Much Madness is Divinest Sense" is not really about an insane person, but Dickinson's word choice gives that sort of a vibe. Using the terms "mad" and "sense" illustrate two opposite sides of a spectrum, in a backwards way. She states that being mad is the sensible thing to do. To me, this translates to "following the crowd is mad, and being differnt (mad) is sensible." I wish Ms. Dickinson would not confuse us so.
Batter my Heart...
In the poem "Batter my Heart, Three-person'd God", the speaker reveals six different verbs that describe the action of the three-personed God. (The three-personed God represents the trinity: God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.) In my opinion, "knock" and "break" are referring to God. Knocking represents the way we all should let God into our lives/souls -- he is knocking on our doors. Breaking may represent God's power to control everything. "Burn" and "shine" are symbols for Jesus. Jesus is the son (SUN... SUN = SHINE) of God and he also burns in each of our hearts. "Breathe" and "blow" stand for the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the grace that keeps us alive (like breathing). Also, the Spirit is always surrounding, similiar to air-wind-blow. I think all of these verbs describe the way the three-personed God reacts with human beings, more specifically the speaker of the poem.
Barbie Doll
The poem "Barbie Doll" is an extended allusion. The allusion is in the title. We all know what a Barbie Doll looks like, what a Barbie Doll wears, and all about Barbie's many materialistic posessions. In my opinion, the title is an allusion to illustrate society's role in the meaning of the poem. This woman, the speaker, talks of having a big nose and fat legs. These qualities are NOT uncommon in women, but also NOT welcomed. Society tells women how they should look, what they should wear, and what they should have through the Barbie Doll. We all look at the doll, perfectly toned and skinny body, and we compare that to ourselves. The speaker is comparing herself to Barbie, realizing she isn't "good enough", and letting society in her head. The poem has a greater, world-wide message. We are all made differently, and Barbie is NOT the epitome of our womanhood.
next to of course...
E.E Cummings uses a signfificant amount of imagery in his poem, "next to of course god america i". Lines 8-10 illustrate a picture of the patriotic soldiers going off to battle. He compares these soldiers to lions. "..why talk of beauty what could be more beautiful than these heroic happy dead who rushed like lions to the roaring slaughter.." The words such as beautiful, heroic, happy, dead describe the soldiers in greater detail than the comparison to the lions. For me, these specific lines paint a pretty vivid portrait of the scene. I can see lions running off to battle, feeling fierce, heroic, and looking of great beauty as they pursue their prey.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Pink Dog
I am not quite sure what to make of this poem. In my opinion, the poem could be one of two things: a satire of some kind, or an illustration of anger towards a certain people. The poem compares "pink" or naked dogs to the poor and homeless of the area, criticizing them. All of the diction throughout the poem gives a negative tone (anger, disgust, irritated, ect.); such as, "mortally afraid of rabies", ..poor bitch while you go begging.." All these things remind me of how people in biblical times treated those who had leprosy. They were completely outcast and thought of as dirty. My question is, is the author/speaker showing how they feel on these poor unfortunate people - or are they proving a good point that these people are treated badly but should'nt be?
Backwards Allusion
The poem "Dream Deferred" does not contain an allusion, but I believe it is alluded to in one of the most famous speeches in United States history. Martin Luther King's speech ("I have a dream..") contained a dream very similar to the one Langston Hughes speaks about. The poem was written in 1926, while the speech was given much later in the late 1960's. In my opinion, Martin Luther King used the poem as a basis for his speech, the speech that led America to eqaulity. The similies Hughes used to describe the dream -- "smells like rotten meat", "dry up", "fester like a sore", and "weighs us down like a heavy load." The struggle with the civil rights movement seems almost perfectly similar to what the poem describes. My overall question..does the great Martin Luther King Jr. allude to Langston Hughes' poem?
February
I can come up with quite a few assumptions about the speaker and/or the author of the poem. The speaker states that she likes to "watch hockey" and stay in her bed all day. One can infer that she is extremely lazy and it most likely winter makes her lazy. She also reveals that she "lusts for French Fries with a splash of vinegar," which also illustrates her laziness (couch potato). She compares cats to men, in a negative manner.. "some other tomcat, not yet a capon, has been spraying our front door, declaring war". I get the impression that she is angry at men, which leads to the assumption that she hates Valentine's Day. This could be why she hates February and cannot wait for the springtime to arrive. "Get rid of death. Celebrate increase. Make it be spring."
Bright Star
In this poem, the author uses an apostrophe as figurative language/literary techinique. An apostrophe is defined as "directly addressing an imaginary, dead, or absent person, place, thing, or a personified idea. (Referenced from Mr. Costello's AP Literary Terms handout). In the poem, the speaker is directly addressing the bright star. The speaker seems to be comparing and contrasting himself to the star. "Still unchangeable...would I were as steadfast as thou art". I believe the author incorporates the apostrophe to illustrate the direct connection between the star and the speaker.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Dream Deferred
This poem by Langston Hughes, an African American writer during the Harlem Renissance, is constructed of all similies and one metaphor. Each simile asks a question exploring what happens to these deferred dreams. "Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?" This is illustrating that if we do not chase our dreams now, it will dry up and no longer be available later. "Or fester like a sore and then run?" If sores are untreated, they get bigger and eventually become infected. Hughes is comparing sores to our dreams; if they aren't pursued then they will bubble up inside of us. "Does it stink like rotten meat?" This simile compares dreams to rotten meat and that if they are kept inside, they will haunt us forever. The last line, "or does it explode?", is the only metaphor in the poem. I am not positive if Hughes does this to set the comparison off from the others. The explosion is similar to what would happen if we left our dreams alone for a long period of time.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Life and Apple-Picking
Robert Frost's poem Apple-picking really strikes me as a poem about morality. I think the whole poem represents life. He mentions the ladder sticking up through a tree towards Heaven. This symbolizes that life (apple-picking) is all about getting to Heaven and spending eternity with God. "There may be two or three apples I didn't pick.." may represent the choices someone makes in their lifetime. Either they chose not to do something for the good, or they missed out on some great opportunity. The speaker also talks about "sleep" after a long day's worth of apple-picking. This sleep may foreshadow the eternal sleep given to one when they complete life on earth.
Widows Lement
Today in class there were so many interpretations of the poem "Widow's Lement in Springtime" and I have several opinions on the meaning. First of all, my main inference is that the widow wants to ultimately be with her husband by experiencing death herself. She wants to "fall into the white flowers" and "sink into the marsh". The white flowers represent the joy and peace of the Kingdom of Heaven - an overall positive feeling. The marsh seems to have a more negative meaning. The dirty marsh represents death. No matter the reason (like being with a loved one) death is never a pleasant thing. I also believe the author chose this event to occur in the springtime because of its irony. Usually spring is parallel to new life or birth. In this case, death is the theme set in an unusual spring setting.
Diction of "Spring"
Perfect diction is incorporated in the poem "Spring". No matter what the actual deeper meaning of the work is, the author uses right on target word choice that simply represents the springtime. "Garden of Eden" is mentioned in one stanza, which to me, illustrates a beautiful setting full of flowers and plants in bloom. Also, Eden was the first sign of life created my God on the earth. It represents new life, or youth, which is also an example of spring. The word "rich" is used as well. In my opinion, "rich" means bountiful or plentiful. Everything - flowers, fruits, plants, even positive attitudes - arise during the springtime. The author uses this diction to really put emphasis on the spring, which can be inferred from the title, the overall theme of the poem.
Imagery
Emily Dickenson uses great imagery in her poem "I felt a Funeral, in my Brain". She most prominently touches the sense of sound. In the second stanza, she illustrates the congregation and the funeral service by saying "..like a Drum -- kept beating -- and beating.." She then illustrates the casket being moved -- "..And then I heard them lift a box and creak across my soul." Finally, the third stanza is all about the auditory sense. Dickenson uses the diction "bell", "ear", and "silence" to show the desent into Heaven and the reaction of the congregation/loved ones. The use of the auditory (and not sight) imagery gives the reader the idea that the speaker may be the one inside the casket.
Those Winter Sundays
The poem "Those Winter Sundays" seems to have an overall negative tone. There are many words that can describe the tone including: guilt, regret, fear, and distance. The speaker may regret not thanking the father for everything he has done for the family. This also leads to the speaker feeling guilty for causing an angry household through ungratefulness. The "chronic anger", coming from the father, most likely results in the fear of the children. The children are afraid of their father's anger which causes distance between them. The negative tone is achieved through the diction used in the poem. The words "harsh", "pain", and "cold" are used in the first stanza to describe the work the father did. "Chronic anger" is also mentioned, which describes the father's attitude toward his family. This also puts a negative feel to the poem.
Monday, September 6, 2010
YOU ARE WRONG.
Remember the days when poetry was broad and generalites could be made? When the most far-fetched ideas were possibilities of interpretation? After reading Perrine's article on interpreting poetry, I'll look at poems from a whole different perspective. I thought we were doing perfectly fine analyzng what we were reading, comng up with symbols and finding the rhetoric strategies. Now Perrine tells us that we were wrong. I completely dsagree with the article. I believe that poetry cannot be interpreted completely correct or completely incorrect. No one but the author of the poem knows exactly what is being said, not even the smartest literature professor in the world.
I don't like being told that I am wrong, especially when there is no clear answer. Literature isn't math class where one plus one is always two. There must be room for educated guessing and high level analyzation. I do not understand the concept that if one thing is off track when in figuring the meaning, then the whole meaning to you is wrong. Bits and pieces of literature can work together to come up with a common, general theme. In my opinion, simply having an educated idea about the meaning and symbols of the poem should be considered correct. No one but the author of the poem can tell me that my interpretation is 100 percent wrong.
I don't like being told that I am wrong, especially when there is no clear answer. Literature isn't math class where one plus one is always two. There must be room for educated guessing and high level analyzation. I do not understand the concept that if one thing is off track when in figuring the meaning, then the whole meaning to you is wrong. Bits and pieces of literature can work together to come up with a common, general theme. In my opinion, simply having an educated idea about the meaning and symbols of the poem should be considered correct. No one but the author of the poem can tell me that my interpretation is 100 percent wrong.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
NOTES
I LOVE THIS CHAPTER!!!!!!! It finally answers most underlying questions I had about the novel and its stories and the author himself. Tim O'Brien reveals to us the purpose of his writing..
"I do not look on my work as therapy, and still don't. Yet when I received Norman Bowker's letter, it occurred to me that the act of writing had led me through a swirl of memories that might otherwise have ended in paralysis or worse."
O'Brien confesses to his audience that if it were'nt for him letting out his grief and emotions about the war through his writings, he may have ended up like Norman. Norman was not a strange or different man. He just needed to talk. He needed some kind of reconciliation of his memories. Like the earlier motif mentioned, war just makes people do out of the ordinary things.
"I do not look on my work as therapy, and still don't. Yet when I received Norman Bowker's letter, it occurred to me that the act of writing had led me through a swirl of memories that might otherwise have ended in paralysis or worse."
O'Brien confesses to his audience that if it were'nt for him letting out his grief and emotions about the war through his writings, he may have ended up like Norman. Norman was not a strange or different man. He just needed to talk. He needed some kind of reconciliation of his memories. Like the earlier motif mentioned, war just makes people do out of the ordinary things.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Alone
Poor Norman Bowker. He returns home from war and all he finds is emptiness. There's no one to tell his stories to, no one who will listen. Especially, no one will understand. Everyone who was not at war has changed. Either they have moved on or they just do not care about what the war meant or accomplished or not. For these soldiers returning home, the war was all they knew. They had so much built up inside, bubbling up and wanting to be released. But no one would listen. No one would understand. In my opinion, the soldiers need a get away. They've been hoping for this day to come and now that it has, nothing has changed. (Except maybe the fear of enemy ambushes.) The affects of war will follow these men throughout their entire lives.
"Dance Right"
The small girl dancing (pages 129-130) resembles Mary Anne and how she reacted to the brutal war. When Mary Anne realized how foreign the war seemed, her curiosity and emotions overtook her and led her to do something crazy. Similarily, when the young girl realized her life as she knew it was crumbling around her, she did the only thing she knew. Dance. Strange it may seem, but there is a motif of strange behavior in all of O'Brien's stories. Mary Anne, Rat Kiley, Henry Dobbins, and the young girl all practice strange behavior..most likely due to the war and its extremties. If I were in this situation, I would most likely do something crazy...so would many of us "crazy teens".
Sorrow and Guilt
War. Obviously where casualities are normal. Killing is expected. In my opinion, Tim O'Brien includes this chapter (pages 118-124 - The Man I Killed) to release his guilt. If this story is true...which I believe it is..then I think he needed someway to let it all out of his head. He gives such clear, vivid detail of the man. He even imagines some of his goals and dreams and background. Although I would also need to release guilt and sorrow if I was in his position, I for sure would not feel bad about it. I mean, this is war. If someone of the enemy was near, with a weapon, I would feel almost happy/relieved to make the kill!!! In some way, the story reveals to the audience a little of O'Brien's character. A sensitive and gentle boy/man, not one to kill willingly and often.
Minister
On pages 113-117, Tim O'Brien explains a scenario of his time in Vietman that occured inside an "almost abandoned" church. The two monks (who spoke nearly no English at all) openly accepted the soldiers. This specific scene reminded me of our Catholic faith here at Roncalli High School. We accept all with open arms with the simple understanding of God as our creator and Jesus our savior. O'Brien describes that the monks took a special liking to Henry Dobbins (the pantyhose guy)..but he does'nt really explain the reason. Maybe because of his generous and decent attitude about everything.
Good Luck...Undergarments
I loved hearing about Henry Dobbins and his "magic pantyhose". Everyone's gotta have something of emotional security. Just like a young child who carries around a blankie or a special stuffed animal, Henry Dobbins carries his girlfriend's pantyhose when he goes into battle.
"He liked putting his nose into the nylon and breathing in the scent of his girlfriend's body; he liked the memories that inspired; he sometimes slept with the stockings up against his face, the way an infant sleeps with a flannel blanket, secure and peaceful." (page 111)
I think it is extremely cute and romantic! I personally have one of my boyfriend's sweatshirts to hold onto when I miss him...and I'm sure I'm not the only one ladies! It makes me feel safe and at peace, similar to Henry Dobbin's situation.
"He liked putting his nose into the nylon and breathing in the scent of his girlfriend's body; he liked the memories that inspired; he sometimes slept with the stockings up against his face, the way an infant sleeps with a flannel blanket, secure and peaceful." (page 111)
I think it is extremely cute and romantic! I personally have one of my boyfriend's sweatshirts to hold onto when I miss him...and I'm sure I'm not the only one ladies! It makes me feel safe and at peace, similar to Henry Dobbin's situation.
Mary Anne
The girl went crazy. The story, according to Rat Kiley, is probably the most interesting story I've read in the novel. I have yet to realize exactly what the purpose of Mary Anne's story is..although I have some ideas. As liberal and anti-sexist as I am, I do believe that women/young girls do not belong in war. The affects of war - killing, guts, glory, blood, craziness, sorrow, guilt - even haunts the average man (for example, Tim O'Brien). I can only imagine what a woman would come back with if she went to war. Women are just naturally more emotional than men, scientifically proven (a little thing called estrogen!). In my opinion, Mary Anne simply went nuts. Everything around her was too much, but not too much to run away. Just too much to handle. She was drowned with curiousity of everything going on around her, she finally snapped. I am still trying to wrap my brain around this specific war story.... trying to figure the underlying meaning.
Cowardly Soldier
Curt Lemon. Tough, daredevil, dangerous, funny, and sarcastic. Also, scared of the dentist. I love that Tim O'Brien added this specific story to the novel because its also a very familiar situation to most people. Everyone is scared of something, whether it be something significant like drowning or something small like spiders. No matter who it is, they have some type of fear. Yes, even NFL players and the President of the United States fears something or someone. What seems to be the toughest guy in the squad is scared of the simpliest thing, a dental checkup. He's fighting in a deadly and confusing war, but he's more afraid of the dentist!!!! No one is perfect. We all have some sort of flaw. FEAR!!
True War
Tim O'Brien's chapter titled "How to Tell a True War Story" (pages 64-81)sort of puts the whole book into perspective for the audience. There isn't really a climatic plot to the novel, only a bunch of small stories. I think the purpose of this entire chapter is to explain to the reader's exactly what is and is not true of the Vietnam stories. He states, "...if a [war] story seems moral, do not believe it. If at the end of the story you feel uplifted, or if you feel that some small bit of rectitude has been salvaged from the larger waste, then you have been made the victim of a very old and terrible lie." (page 65)
I have never thought about this but it really does make sense. All these heroic stories we hear may not be true. War is war. There's nothing good or soothing about it. It's all evil, gory, and provocative! Eighteen to twenty-five year old men/boys are not noble and honorable yet...they're killers with dirty mouths. I'll certainly think twice about the next war story I hear.
I have never thought about this but it really does make sense. All these heroic stories we hear may not be true. War is war. There's nothing good or soothing about it. It's all evil, gory, and provocative! Eighteen to twenty-five year old men/boys are not noble and honorable yet...they're killers with dirty mouths. I'll certainly think twice about the next war story I hear.
Enemies and Friends
Of course war is centered around enemies and friends of opposite countries. But what about enemies and friends within the same army, let alone the same squad? O'Brien tells a story of two men who get in a fist fight over a missing jacknife; a pretty common happening with teens today. Fighting is always the answer! Although the fight was simple and stupid, the man who had "won" was scared of revenge. His "enemy" ate where he ate, slept where he slept, and carried around a giant weapon at all times. He now had to not only worry about the foreign enemy, but the enemy who was supposed to have his back when going into battle. Its rather interesting that being at war can make one so uncertain of familiar things, such as fellow American men who just wanted to return home to their girlfriends. It cracks me up what the first man says at the end of the chapter about his worried enemy...
"The man's crazy..I stole his f#####g jacknife."
"The man's crazy..I stole his f#####g jacknife."
The Wise One
"The man who opened the door that day is the hero on my life. How do I say this without sounding sappy? Blurt it out - the man saved me." (pages 45-46)
Man this chapter has alot to take in! The old man who kept the inn on the river was said to be O'Brien's savior. He continues to tell how the old man just sat back and listened. he offered no questions, but indeed gave the young boy (O'Brien) everything he needed with silence. It also amazes me that the old man somehow knew the entire situation by the end of the six days, even though no words in that direction were spoken. On page 51 when they are settling the expenses and wages, the old man says something sort of hinting he knew. "Pick it up. Get yourself a haircut." Woah. Don't all soldiers get a certain haircut before shipped to their destination? Gooooood writing O'Brien.
Anyway, in times like these I certainly hate to be alone, but also hate to be bothered and questioned - only making the matter at hand worse. I can relate to this scenerio greatly!! Thank's to the old man, Elroy Berdahl, O'Brien figured out his duty.
Ashamed and Embarrassed.
After asking questions about the undefined war, O'Brien continues to tell his most secret story. A story almost more powerful and significant to the audience than any combat stories later to come. Run away to Canada to avoid reality? Lose whole life and all dreams and goals because of one minor flaw - embarrassment.
"It had nothing to do with morality. Embarrassment, that's all it was...I would go to the war - I would kill and maybe die - because I was embarrassed not to." (page 57)
I connect this scene with certain times in all teenage lives. Maybe its not something as terrible as war, but it is a common occurence. I'm sure all of us have had a moment in our lives where we thought running away was the answer, and we were most definitely going to do it, if it were'nt for that mere guilt we had. Guilty, ashamed, and most of all embarassed of what those close to us would think. What people would say if we disappeared to ease our stress. I admit it, I've thought about it many times. From things as simple as not doing well on a test to fights with my parents, it's happened. Of course none of these occurences are as important as the war.
"It had nothing to do with morality. Embarrassment, that's all it was...I would go to the war - I would kill and maybe die - because I was embarrassed not to." (page 57)
I connect this scene with certain times in all teenage lives. Maybe its not something as terrible as war, but it is a common occurence. I'm sure all of us have had a moment in our lives where we thought running away was the answer, and we were most definitely going to do it, if it were'nt for that mere guilt we had. Guilty, ashamed, and most of all embarassed of what those close to us would think. What people would say if we disappeared to ease our stress. I admit it, I've thought about it many times. From things as simple as not doing well on a test to fights with my parents, it's happened. Of course none of these occurences are as important as the war.
Hated War.
In chapter 4, On the Rainy River, Tim O'Brien begins to tell a story "[he's] never told anyone before." He starts by telling about the receiving of his draft letter. The letter that drafted him into "the war [he] hated." He continues with a rant of questions that were commonly asked then, and commmonly asked now about the Vietnam War.
"Who started it, when and why?...Was Ho Chi Minh a Communist scrooge, or a nationalist savior, or both, or neither? What about the Geneva Accords? What about SEATO and the Cold War?" (page 38)
It is funny to me that all these questions were ones unanswered both at the time of the War.. and now, as we all sit in history class with Mrs. Helbing. She tries to explain the purpose and the reason but yet it still all remains undefined. I took a test and a final exam with the Vietnam War included. I passed. But as I continue to read the novel and hear the questions, they still remain unanswered. Will anyone ever know the true purpose of the war? I could tell anyone the purpose and reasons for the Civil and both World Wars. But not this one.
"Who started it, when and why?...Was Ho Chi Minh a Communist scrooge, or a nationalist savior, or both, or neither? What about the Geneva Accords? What about SEATO and the Cold War?" (page 38)
It is funny to me that all these questions were ones unanswered both at the time of the War.. and now, as we all sit in history class with Mrs. Helbing. She tries to explain the purpose and the reason but yet it still all remains undefined. I took a test and a final exam with the Vietnam War included. I passed. But as I continue to read the novel and hear the questions, they still remain unanswered. Will anyone ever know the true purpose of the war? I could tell anyone the purpose and reasons for the Civil and both World Wars. But not this one.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
METAPHOR!!!!!!!
YESSS! I love when I happen to stumble across a literary term instead of having to search the novel endlessly! Chapter 3, Spin, includes a giant metaphor comparing the game of checkers to the Vietnam War.
"There was something restful about it, something orderly and reassuring. There were red checkers and black checkers. The playing field was laid out in a strict grid, no tunnels or mountains or jungles. You knew where you stood. You know the score. The pieces were out on the board, the enemy was visible, you could watch the tactics unfolding into larger strategies. There was a winner and a loser. There were rules."
O'Brien lays it all out on the line here for the audience. He makes the differences between checkers and the war vividly clear. Anyone with little knowlegde about war would still understand the metaphor. From what I've learned about the Vietnam War -that there was no clear reason to fight, no clear goal, and no clear path with a country full of jungle ahead - the comparison between these two extremely different "games" is illustrated perfectly.
"There was something restful about it, something orderly and reassuring. There were red checkers and black checkers. The playing field was laid out in a strict grid, no tunnels or mountains or jungles. You knew where you stood. You know the score. The pieces were out on the board, the enemy was visible, you could watch the tactics unfolding into larger strategies. There was a winner and a loser. There were rules."
O'Brien lays it all out on the line here for the audience. He makes the differences between checkers and the war vividly clear. Anyone with little knowlegde about war would still understand the metaphor. From what I've learned about the Vietnam War -that there was no clear reason to fight, no clear goal, and no clear path with a country full of jungle ahead - the comparison between these two extremely different "games" is illustrated perfectly.
A Born Author
The second chapter flashes forward to many years after the end of the war, when Lieutenant Cross visits O'Brien. The two chat about past times, feeling sorrow and guilt. After discussing Jimmy Cross's relationship (or not relationship --- whatever it is) with Martha, it seems that O'Brien has an epiphany. Talking about the numerous stories of the war inspires O'Brien as a writer. "..I told him that I'd like to write a story about some of this." I wonder if this part of the story is true..I have yet to figure out if the whole novel is nonfiction, or if only bits and pieces are actual happenings. Is Jimmy Cross and his "lover" Martha a main inspiration for Tim O'Brien's work? Maybe a hint will come later in the novel.
Martha, Martha, Martha
The first and most elaborate "thing carried" that narrator/author Tim O'Brien describes is letters from Martha. Lieutenant Jimmy Cross carried the letters with him as a symbol of love, or at least hopeful for love. "..she never mentioned the war, except to say, Jimmy, take care of yourself. The letters weighed four ounces. They were signed Love, Martha, but Lieutenant Cross understood that Love was only a way of signing and did not mean what he sometimes pretended it meant." In my opinion, Cross carried these letters as merely a sign of hope. Hope to return home and live a normal peaceful life. I think O'Brien makes this the first "thing carried" as if to show the emotional side of the soldiers. To illustrate to the audience that not only weapons were carried during battle, but items of significance to the individual soldier. I know if it were me, I would carry a picture of my family and loved ones - praying I'd return home to see them again.
The Things They Carried
I have just begun Tim O'Brien's novel, The Things They Carried, and after the first chapter it is already more interesting to me than The Sun Also Rises. Before beginning, I read all the reviews in the first few pages and on the back cover. The critic reviews, all 47 of them, were extrememly positive and almost passionate about the work. They really gave me a sense of excitement for myself to read the novel as well. I was also fantastically pleased to find the novel was about the Vietnam War. Being one of my favorite subjects to learn about in history class, I could'nt wait to read more! I only hope it remains at least half as appealing as the last one!
Friday, July 9, 2010
More Confusing French Etiquette
Eat. Drink. Eat. Drink. Eat. Drink. Eat some more. Drink. Dance. Drink. Come one Mr. Hemingway, there has to be more to the story than eating and drinking non-stop. Every chapter of the book consists of a meal, preceded by and followed by alcohol. Like I mentioned earlier on in my blog, maybe drinking is an important motif and ties in with the plot. Chapter 14 now and still have not figured the plot..or even came to the climax. Maybe the author is simply trying to teach us about boring French culture. Did I miss the message or is it yet to come in the last few chapters? The French are confusing; therefore, I have no more commentary.
Allusion Allusion Allusion
On page 148, Mike refers to Brett as Circe."He calls her Circe..he claims she turns men into swine." This is an allusion to Homer's epic poem the Odyssey. This is completely true about her! Like I have been saying all along! She is a sneaky risque temptress to all of the men. Like we would say in our day.."She's hot and she knows it." Hearing this made me laugh out loud. Finally someone tells Brett what people truly think of her. The funny thing is, she does'nt seem to care all that much. I must say - I cannot stand cocky women such as Lady Brett Ashley (highpitched sarcastic voice!) :P
Mike's tight.
"Tight" and at it again, Michael Campbell reveals his true character after the bull fight. While getting drinks (similar to EVERY SINGLE scene in the novel) Mike becomes drunk and tells the gang all about Robert Cohn. Everyone their already knew it but no one dared to say it..that is except the rather tipsy Mike.
"Tell me Robert. Why do you follow Brett around like a bloody steer? Don't you know you're not wanted?" ---- Simile: comparing Cohn to the steers in the bull fight that follow around the bulls even though they are not wanted
He makes it clear to all that Brett and Robert had an affair. My question is...why does he (Brett's fiance) seem to be calm about it? Does cheating mean anything to them in Europe? And how is Brett sitting there so calm and quiet? It all seems weird to me..and extremely different from how we do things in the States.
"Tell me Robert. Why do you follow Brett around like a bloody steer? Don't you know you're not wanted?" ---- Simile: comparing Cohn to the steers in the bull fight that follow around the bulls even though they are not wanted
He makes it clear to all that Brett and Robert had an affair. My question is...why does he (Brett's fiance) seem to be calm about it? Does cheating mean anything to them in Europe? And how is Brett sitting there so calm and quiet? It all seems weird to me..and extremely different from how we do things in the States.
Bull fighting
The scene of the bull festival really grabbed my interest. I only know the things seen on tv and movies about bull fighting. I had no idea the steers were used for "bait" to calm down the wild bulls. I also had no idea people made such a sport of it. After reading it, I immediately Youtubed some videos to deepen my understanding (as shown above).
I am also wondering if the bull fighting stood as a metaphor of some kind to the situation happening amongst the characters. Any ideas?
Lost Plot
I am on chapter fourteen, over halfway through the book, and I am still not clear on the complete plot or theme of the novel. So far I've met and experienced many different characters interacting with the narrator (Jake Barnes), but no certain conflict really jumps off the page. The only one I have an idea about is Brett. The way she interacts with specific MALE characters is rather charming and risque. I'm wondering who this sly beauty will end up with at the end of the story. Will she marry Mike Campbell? Will she continue her affair with Robert Cohn? Or will she be with her true love Jake Barnes? I can turn this novel into something romantic that interests me. Hey, isnt that what a good reader is supposed to do? :p
Recession
On page 141, Mike Campbell tells the gang why and how he went bankrupt. "..I had alot of friends. False friends. Then I had creditors too. Probably had more than anybody in England." Set in the post World War I era during the roaring twenties, this consequence with finance reminds me of the United States economy today. Just before the the 1930's the economy in Europe was booming and people were in over their heads with riches..only to watch them fall. Similarily, our economy today is in a recession; even though, only 5 or 6 years ago it was flourishing.
Also something to think about...the European men love to gamble. They gamble almost about everything - bridge, bull fighting, boxing. I don't understand the European motivation for alcohol, let alone gambling.
Also something to think about...the European men love to gamble. They gamble almost about everything - bridge, bull fighting, boxing. I don't understand the European motivation for alcohol, let alone gambling.
Drunk Motif
Of course Europe is overflowing with speaciality wine and liquor, but this is something unfamiliar to the United States. Yes drinking alcohol is a common thing for us Americans but surely not as much as the Europeans. They seem to drink some form of alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) like it is water! I believe the author uses drinking and becoming "tight" or "cock-eyed" (pgs 85, 122, 144--as well as other places throughout the book) as a motif. I think he is either trying to show the European culture or another idea not yet revealed. I'll be keeping a close eye out for more "drunk motifs."
To Be Continued. . .
Irony and PIty
Irony - the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning
Pity - to have compassion; sympathetic or kindly sorrow evoked by the suffering, distress, or misfortune of another
Page 118-120 discussed irony and pity. Bill Gorton sings a song about these words, and then speaks with irony and pity in his sentences. I do not see exactly what he means by this. "..You ought to be ironical the minute you get out of bed. You ought to wake up with a mouth full of pity." Gorton is attempting to get Jake to speak like a true writer!
Pity - to have compassion; sympathetic or kindly sorrow evoked by the suffering, distress, or misfortune of another
Page 118-120 discussed irony and pity. Bill Gorton sings a song about these words, and then speaks with irony and pity in his sentences. I do not see exactly what he means by this. "..You ought to be ironical the minute you get out of bed. You ought to wake up with a mouth full of pity." Gorton is attempting to get Jake to speak like a true writer!
Nervous and Cold
NERVOUS: I was right! Robert and Brett did have relations in San Sebastian. "She said she wanted to get out of town and she can't go anywhere alone. She said it would be good for him" (page 107). So she is a sneaky mistress who needs company at all times. Poor Robert. He was soo nervous and his "friends" thought it was funny to make fun of him. Sounds familiar to our teenage lives huh? I wonder if Brett and Mike will ever show up for the trip.
COLD: The cold weather during the summer in Spain puzzles me. I wonder if Bill and Jake will continue on with their fishing trip. In my opinion, they need to suck it up and go ice fishing!! :)
COLD: The cold weather during the summer in Spain puzzles me. I wonder if Bill and Jake will continue on with their fishing trip. In my opinion, they need to suck it up and go ice fishing!! :)
Something familiar!
I found out on page 102 and 103 that Jake Barnes is a Catholic. It makes much more sense to me now...all the drinking and dancing and whatnot that him and his friends participated in. Us Catholics can really relate. Hearing about the grand cathedral and Jake's prayers also brings familiarity into the reading. In our faith we are instructed to kneel and pray everytime we enter a church, just as Jake did. His 'shameful' prayers remind me of myself and a few of my fellow classmates..we simply prayer for ourselves and what we want/need only when it is convenient for us. I love this specific scene of the novel because I can clearly relate.
Sneaky Mistress
Brett's at it again! What is with her and her "men"? She seems to have every male in the story lined up to be with her. Is she just a flirt? That's what I thought when I read page 89 and 90. "Who do you think I went down to San Sebastian with," said Brett of Robert Cohn. Does this mean she was his mistress for a few days? "He behaved rather well, too. He gets a little dull." I still cannot figure you out Miss Brett. The duke, Jake, the count, Mike Campbell, and now Robert? She goes back and forth between them all and they follow her around as if she was the last woman on the planet. All I can say is I feel sorry for these poor strung-out men.
Bill Gorton and the Vienna fight
When I read Bill Gorton's (a new character introduced in chapter 8) story about the fight he saw in Vienna I had mixed feelings. On page 77 Gorton is describing to Jake Barnes a boxing fight he saw between a "nigger" and a local boy from Vienna. I become upset hearing that the local people would not give the African American boy his prize money because he has beaten the white boy. Of course I felt easier that Mr. Bill Gorton and his friends helped the African American boy.
In my opinion, this scene really shows the universality of the novel. It shows that prejudices and injustices not only happened in the United States, but also in Europe. It also shows the timelessness of the novel because there are still certain people who act this way towards different races. Unfortunately inequality will never really disappear completely.
In my opinion, this scene really shows the universality of the novel. It shows that prejudices and injustices not only happened in the United States, but also in Europe. It also shows the timelessness of the novel because there are still certain people who act this way towards different races. Unfortunately inequality will never really disappear completely.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Woah, she's ROUND!
Chapter seven concludes Book I in the novel. It ends by showing Brett's characteristics and complexity. Brett and the Count.. (her friend? Confused by their relationship.).. come visit Jake Barnes at his home. They sit and chat about people, pasts, and knowledge that each has acquired. Nothing of great significance happens in this scence except for illustrating Brett's dynamic personalities. She has many friends, acqaintances, and expierences to share. On page 67, Brett brings up personal values and falling in love which reveals the gentle side of her. In my opinion, the purpose of this chapter is to show the audience that Brett is a round character. Also leaves the possibility of being a dynamic character if she somehow changes by the end of the novel..
He's whipped.
Pages 56, 57, and 58 lay out the real relationship between Robert Cohn and Frances.
The awkward conversation between Frances, Robert, and Jake occurs rather suddenly. Frances reveals that Robert is leaving her to find some sort of "new material" for his new writing, but actually she is being sarcastic. In my opinion, the underlying meaning is that Robert will not marry her.
"I know the real reason why Robert won't marry me...Why you see, Roberts always wantrd to have a mistress, and if he doesn't marry me, then he's had one." (page 58)
Frances continues to scold Robert in front of Jake, illustrating how controlling and bitter she is about the whole situation. I feel sorry for poor Robert sitting there taking the ridicule...and it seems that Jake does too.
The awkward conversation between Frances, Robert, and Jake occurs rather suddenly. Frances reveals that Robert is leaving her to find some sort of "new material" for his new writing, but actually she is being sarcastic. In my opinion, the underlying meaning is that Robert will not marry her.
"I know the real reason why Robert won't marry me...Why you see, Roberts always wantrd to have a mistress, and if he doesn't marry me, then he's had one." (page 58)
Frances continues to scold Robert in front of Jake, illustrating how controlling and bitter she is about the whole situation. I feel sorry for poor Robert sitting there taking the ridicule...and it seems that Jake does too.
Backwards Dramatic Irony
On page 46, Krum (one of Jake Barnes' friends) asks Jake about Lady Brett Ashley. Jake then reveals that Brett is getting a divorce so she will no longer be Lady Ashley. "She is getting a divorce and going to marry Mike Campbell.." Getting divorced but not marrying Jake? The man who she proposed to love only the chapter before? I am still wondering why Brett and Jake cannot be together; even though it is clear they adore each other. To me, this situation is dramatic irony in reverse. Instead of the audience knowing something the characters do not, the characters know something that has not yet been revealed to the audience.
Brett and Jake 101
Alright I am confused again! Brett Ashley is introduced in chapter three and leaves the resturant with Jake, whom she supposedly has history with. The author does not come right out and reveal anything about Brett and Jake, so we are left to decipher their conversation in the beginning of chapter four on pages 33, 34, and 35.
.
"Don't you love me?" (Jake)
"Love you? I simply turn all to jelly when you touch me." (Brett)
"Isn't there anything we can do about it?" (Jake)
"....I don't want to go through that hell again.." (Brett)
"We better keep away from each other." (Jake)
They continue to talk and kiss. My question is what is the history behing all their "heartache". And why is it impossible for them to be together since she is getting a divorce? More confusing French etiquette I guess.
.
"Don't you love me?" (Jake)
"Love you? I simply turn all to jelly when you touch me." (Brett)
"Isn't there anything we can do about it?" (Jake)
"....I don't want to go through that hell again.." (Brett)
"We better keep away from each other." (Jake)
They continue to talk and kiss. My question is what is the history behing all their "heartache". And why is it impossible for them to be together since she is getting a divorce? More confusing French etiquette I guess.
Protagonist? Protagonist!
After the first four chapters I have finally figured out who the protagonist - or central character - is in The Sun Also Rises. Jake Barnes, the narrator, reveals many different characters throughout the beginning chapters; however, he is the main character himself. The first two chapters describe Robert Cohn, but then drift away to reveal Jake's characteristics and point of view. Speaking of point of view, the novel is written in first person POV. Jake is not only the protagonist, but the narrator. As the audience, we see and hear everything only from his perspective. Although first person POV is easier to follow while reading, it sometimes becomes boring when only reading one opinion over and over.
Confusion of French Etiquette
Maybe someone can help me out here.. In chapter 3 when Jake Barnes meets Georgette Hobin, did they know each other previously? Because she just plops down at his table and the two carry about a normal conversation without much introduction. I'm not clear if this is just how they kick it in France or if they have a certain history together that the author has yet to reveal. Another thing that confuses me is the next scene when they meet with Jake's friends (ie Mr. and Mrs. Braddocks, Robert Cohn, Frances). On page 25, Jake introduces his "new" lady friend Georgette as his fiance? They just met! ... I think? I've come to two conclusions: this is French etiquette that is foreign to us Americans, or it is simply a joke. Can anyone clear this up for me?
Robert Cohn
In the first chapter of The Sun Also Rises, the author introduces Robert Cohn and his background characteristics. To me, it seems that Hemingway incorporates both direct and indirect characterization of Cohn. On page 11, the author describes Cohn's boxing career at Princeton and quotes, "...he never fought except in the gym." This reveals to the audience that Cohn wasn't truly a fighter, only an athlete who knew when the appropriate time was to practice his skill. This acts as a form of indirect characterization. A few lines down on that same page the author quotes, "He was really very fast.", a form of direct characterization. On pages 12 and 13 Hemingway continues to describe Cohn using direct characterization. "He was a nice boy, a friendly boy, and very shy.." (page 12) "He was fairly happy.." (page 13)
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