Thursday, November 29, 2012
And a sad trombone plays... (24 and Conclusion)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Victor is left with nothing but the source of his misery. In truth, his misery stems from himself, but directly the cause is the creature. Vengeance is therefor the drive behind Victor's chasing of the creature into the arctic. He knows that he won't survive much longer, and asks Walton to finish off the creature in his honor. When Victor dies, Walton is later approached by the creature. It turns out, the creature felt just as bad as Victor, if not worse. The creature just wanted information on the basic guarantees that every person has, and yet he was the reason for the death of the very provider of the information he wanted. The creature exclaims "That is also my victim...in his murder my crimes are consummated" (Shelley 163). Even though rage filled the creature throughout the later part of the book, he realizes that he is not justified in his actions. It is here that I see Victor and the creature to be the same. Society plagued them both, and they could never be happy, and they were always on edge. This is why the stories have depicted a hideous lumbering man and called him Frankenstein, because the creator and the creation have very similar qualities. Oh how we have come full circle.
Creature don't care. (21-23)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
While in the brink, Victor slowly begins to put the pieces together. He is in jail for the murder of Henry Clerval, and the very death of Henry has Victor messed up enough. Victor knows the creature killed him, for eyewitnesses say they saw a man in a boat the same night Mrs Creature got dumped in the water. Victor soon realizes that his life is not at stake so much as are the lives of those he cares about most. The emotions and chaos are literally attacking his mind, and he battles the illnesses that are the product of the creature's actions. Victor even admits that "ever since my recovery from the fever, I had been in the custom of taking every night a small quantity of laudanum" (Shelley 135). Victor was poppin' pills just to close his eyes at night, it's a wonder that he didn't go completely insane the first time he created the creature. When he finally gets better, he returns home to marry Elizabeth. I have no idea why this happens; Victor has gone through the most insane, unbelievable, and horrific time and his life and he's going to marry the person he cares for most. Obviously, the creature kills her. At this point I have no more emotions, this rollercoaster ride is nearly over.
another antimclimactic creation (18-20)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
So Victor is off to Ye Olde England to craft another creation, and his sidekick Henry is right by his side. Henry is having a grand old time sight-seeing and what not, but victor is again tormented by the thing he is about to create. So, as to not bother Henry, Victor departs his buddy and goes to a remote part of Scotland to work alone. A clever juxtaposition occurs when Victor states that "During my first experiment, a kind of enthusiastic frenzy had blinded me to the horror of my employment...but now I went to it in cold blood, and my heart sickened at the work of my hands" (Shelley 120). This made me think that Victor would instead be happy with the bride that he made for the creature, and be content with the solution he carried out. However, Mrs Creature is destroyed right before she is given life, and Mr Creature is not too happy. He threatens Victor, and Victor fears for his life. The creature flees and Victor disposes of the female creature's remains. After dumping the parts in a lake, Victor arrives on shore dazed and confused, and the inhabitants of the land blame him for a murder. Victor is shocked at the accusation, but willingly follows the town.
Mary Shelley
So Victor is off to Ye Olde England to craft another creation, and his sidekick Henry is right by his side. Henry is having a grand old time sight-seeing and what not, but victor is again tormented by the thing he is about to create. So, as to not bother Henry, Victor departs his buddy and goes to a remote part of Scotland to work alone. A clever juxtaposition occurs when Victor states that "During my first experiment, a kind of enthusiastic frenzy had blinded me to the horror of my employment...but now I went to it in cold blood, and my heart sickened at the work of my hands" (Shelley 120). This made me think that Victor would instead be happy with the bride that he made for the creature, and be content with the solution he carried out. However, Mrs Creature is destroyed right before she is given life, and Mr Creature is not too happy. He threatens Victor, and Victor fears for his life. The creature flees and Victor disposes of the female creature's remains. After dumping the parts in a lake, Victor arrives on shore dazed and confused, and the inhabitants of the land blame him for a murder. Victor is shocked at the accusation, but willingly follows the town.
Yep, he's crazy (16/17)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
After being rejected by the family he creepily breaths on at night, the creature has given up. The common trait that surround all of his issues is humanity. Humans are the ones that always ruin his happiness, or they prevent any happiness from originating. It is for this reason that "from that moment I declared ever-lasting war against the species, and...against him who had formed me" (Shelley 97). The creature is no longer this lost puppy that everyone wants to help, he's like batman if every person in Gotham hated him and his parents shrieked at the very sight of him instead of dying in that alley.
The reader learns that the creature WAS the killer of William, and that he was intelligent enough to frame Justine for the murder. He then coerces Victor to make him a bride. The creature claims the source of his woes is loneliness, and being with one who is like him is all he needs. If he had a woman, he would never show his face to the world again. Victor only agrees so that the creature would never be able to hurt anyone again.
JUST GIVE HIM A CHANCE! (13-15)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
While the creature is still stalking the DeLaceys, he learns the language at a greater capacity than most people. This quality, coupled with the creature's amazing strength, tells the reader that the creature is a superhuman. He learns, adapts, and preforms at the top level and is still unloved and searching for purpose. After reading some novels (which he just found lying on the ground), he begins to question "What did this mean? Who was I? What was I...these questions continually recurred, but I was unable to solve them" (Shelley 91). I understand his frustration, but this quote has a deeper meaning. The creature has been very determined in his effort to survive, and now he is on a quest to thrive. If he wants his questions answers, not much can stop him until he understands the truth. Nonetheless, he is viewed as a tormented soul throughout this section. No one has given him a chance and he is simply looking for acceptance. This story is definitely changing the preconceived notion of the Frankenstein we all hear about during Halloween.
Mary Shelley
While the creature is still stalking the DeLaceys, he learns the language at a greater capacity than most people. This quality, coupled with the creature's amazing strength, tells the reader that the creature is a superhuman. He learns, adapts, and preforms at the top level and is still unloved and searching for purpose. After reading some novels (which he just found lying on the ground), he begins to question "What did this mean? Who was I? What was I...these questions continually recurred, but I was unable to solve them" (Shelley 91). I understand his frustration, but this quote has a deeper meaning. The creature has been very determined in his effort to survive, and now he is on a quest to thrive. If he wants his questions answers, not much can stop him until he understands the truth. Nonetheless, he is viewed as a tormented soul throughout this section. No one has given him a chance and he is simply looking for acceptance. This story is definitely changing the preconceived notion of the Frankenstein we all hear about during Halloween.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
I now understand why only the creation is Halloween Themed (Ch 9-12)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
The creature lives!!!! Not only does he live, but he has matured into a functioning human being, with similar mental capacity to Victor himself. Victor, of course, did not originally assume this. Upon seeing the creature in the mountains, he threatens him and even assaults him. The creature calms Victor down and begins to tell him all about the story of his evolution, and so we enter another fame story. So the creature tells all about his early weeks of existence. His actions resembled a toddler's: he learned pain from stimuli, he learned what to do to feel good, and what not to do to avoid anger. His true triumph was learning the language, which he grasped from watching a family through a crack in the wall (totally unrealistic by the way). After watching this family, he saw their sadness and could understand where it came from: poverty. He recognized love within the family, but saw a constant sense of despair because of the lack of funds possessed by the family. Nevertheless, the creature desperately wanted to be liked by humans, especially this family. He planned to one day confront them, asking for friendship. His logic is good enough to assume that "they would be disgusted, until, by my gentle demeanour and conciliating words, I should first win their favour, and afterwards their love" (Shelley 81). It's a lofty goal for a monster, but he seems confident in the progress he has made in becoming a regular human.
Meh, I've been sadder (ch 6-8)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
After Frankenstein was left losing his mind last section, he starts on the road to mental recovery thanks to his friend Henry Clerval. While Frankenstein is healing up, the reader gets updated on his family back home, which he has not seen in 6 years. The creepiness returns with Elizabeth treating her younger siblings as Frankenstein's and her children. Nevertheless, the family is eagerly awaiting the return of their little Victor. BUT WAIT! William, the cutest of all the family, has been murdered and it is up to Victor Frankenstein to solve the crime (not really, but it sounds cool). However, when Victor arrived home late at night, he saw his creature lurking near the sight of William's murder. In my opinion, he catapulted to conclusions (more severe than just jumping to conclusions). At the sight of Victor, the creature bounded up a mountain and disappeared into the stormy night. This encounter convinced Victor that his handiwork caused the death of William. Furthermore, it made him think that the accused murder, family friend Justine Moritz, was innocent. The courts, on the other hand, thought she was guilty, and ended up killing her. The truly ominous news comes at the end of chapter 8, where Victor says William and Justine were the "first hapless victims to my unhallowed arts" (Shelley 60). dun dun DUN!!!
This is going to be legen-, wait for it...actually I hate this (ch 4/5)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Victor Frankenstein, the boy compelled by his ambition for knowledge, finally has a place to hone his skills. His college classes fuel his prime desire, to create life. He wants to be able to make nothingness alive, and he figures he can do this with the power of science and philosophy. He began constructing a man, proportionally large to make the assembling easier, and fitted the body with all the essentials humans have. As he worked, his worked made him continuously reconsider what he was doing, but his desire to succeed was far greater. The ability to conquer the unknown was the only thing driving Frankenstein, and nothing would stop him. He even became so paranoid that "the fall of a leaf startled me, and I shunned my fellow creatures as if I had been guilty of a crime" (Shelley 34). When the creature finally awoke, Frankenstein thought he would be ecstatic. However, the bizarre look of this gigantic man beast terrified him, and his work was viewed as terror and a complete waste. After all the work he put into this project, and after all the hysteria he went through, Frankenstein was utterly disappointed (and horrified) with his work.
So Victor isn't that creepy...nevermind (ch 1-3)
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Remember the frozen guy? Of course you do, I typed about him like 90 seconds ago! Well anyway, his name is Victor and he has begin to tell the reader of his reasons for being out in the North Pole. His ambition closely resembles Walton's, they both desired to know more about the world, and they were both determined to achieve their goals. Victor then describes his family, which came about in a series of strange occurrences. His mother was the daughter of his father's best friend, so there was a pretty large age difference. Victor was born and remained an only child for quite some time, until his mother "adopted" a girl who was roughly the same age as Victor. The creepiness comes out when the mother "gives" Elizabeth (the adopted daughter) to Victor. He "looked upon Elizabeth as [his]-[his] to protect, love, and cherish" (Shelley 18). If he had stopped at "mine to protect," I would've viewed the relationship as an over-caring brother, but it took a romantic turn, as if they were soul mates. As time went on, they became closer and acted more like a married couple, but were never openly romantic. When Victor finally departs for college, his farewell to his family is heartfelt, and even makes the reader feel bad for him. He is going to be without the most loving people he has ever known, and he will be entering a completely new world. He is literally alone, and this attitude will hang over him through his college days.
I led her to the letter, then i let her use the lead...der
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Robert Walton is a massive bummer, thank goodness he's in this story for a short time! So the first three letters are spent setting up the reason the actual story will be told. During this time, Robert Walton writes to his sister about his time voyaging to the North Pole, and the whole time he writes how he is lonely and craving companionship as well as purpose. Lo and behold he finds a nearly frozen, almost dead traveler to become his best friend (now that's a story to tell the kids)! Before picking up the straggler, the crew notices a large being on a dogsled, and didn't think much of it; however, the frozen dude is very interested, and almost determined to see this creature. When the man finally recovered from near death, he was "continually on the deck, apparently watching for the sledge that preceded his own" (Shelley 11). The reader is constantly wondering why this random guy is so interested in this creature, and why he even likes Robert Walton! Personally, I find this friendship to be creepy, but as the story progresses, it only gets creepier. Oh the foreshadowing will get ya every time.
Mary Shelley
Robert Walton is a massive bummer, thank goodness he's in this story for a short time! So the first three letters are spent setting up the reason the actual story will be told. During this time, Robert Walton writes to his sister about his time voyaging to the North Pole, and the whole time he writes how he is lonely and craving companionship as well as purpose. Lo and behold he finds a nearly frozen, almost dead traveler to become his best friend (now that's a story to tell the kids)! Before picking up the straggler, the crew notices a large being on a dogsled, and didn't think much of it; however, the frozen dude is very interested, and almost determined to see this creature. When the man finally recovered from near death, he was "continually on the deck, apparently watching for the sledge that preceded his own" (Shelley 11). The reader is constantly wondering why this random guy is so interested in this creature, and why he even likes Robert Walton! Personally, I find this friendship to be creepy, but as the story progresses, it only gets creepier. Oh the foreshadowing will get ya every time.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Letters and Numbers
APO 96225
Larry Rottmann
A boy is involved in the war, and he has experienced some rough stuff. He wants to keep his family, especially his mom, up to date on his well-being. However, the mother wants the son to tell her everything he has been through during his time in the war. The son ends up revealing the harshness of war in his letter, and in return is scolded by his father for upsetting his mother. The poem is about the delicate balance of war, as well as the balance of family. War is a frightening place, and the Son initially tries to suppress his actions. His memories are bound to haunt him, so he decides to tell his family. On the other hand, one must protect his family. Outright telling his mom that he killed a man is something most mothers don't like to hear. The son should have been more careful with how he opened up to his mother about the true danger of war. Not only did he told his gruesome news so frankly, but he previously had tried to cover it up with fake, cheery story about his time abroad. While his mother asks about what the war is like, the son says "'The sunsets here are spectacular'" (Rottmann 846). The poem reveals the importance of cautious honesty, which would've made the situation go a whole lot more smoothly.
Larry Rottmann
A boy is involved in the war, and he has experienced some rough stuff. He wants to keep his family, especially his mom, up to date on his well-being. However, the mother wants the son to tell her everything he has been through during his time in the war. The son ends up revealing the harshness of war in his letter, and in return is scolded by his father for upsetting his mother. The poem is about the delicate balance of war, as well as the balance of family. War is a frightening place, and the Son initially tries to suppress his actions. His memories are bound to haunt him, so he decides to tell his family. On the other hand, one must protect his family. Outright telling his mom that he killed a man is something most mothers don't like to hear. The son should have been more careful with how he opened up to his mother about the true danger of war. Not only did he told his gruesome news so frankly, but he previously had tried to cover it up with fake, cheery story about his time abroad. While his mother asks about what the war is like, the son says "'The sunsets here are spectacular'" (Rottmann 846). The poem reveals the importance of cautious honesty, which would've made the situation go a whole lot more smoothly.
Funeral Brain
I felt a Funeral, in my Brain
Emily Dickinson
Senses play a key role in this poem. The author feels, hears, and sees all of the things centered around this fictional funeral. The imagery produced by the sensual language is unique in catching the reader's attention. Specifically, the mourners are an influential source of imagery. Their walking affects the poet so much, that she can feel it in her mind. Moreover "those same Boots of Lead" (Dickinson 776) stomp over her mind again, causing her whole world to change. The imagery makes the poem out to be about some life-altering news, rather than an actual death. She always sees the danger lurking into the future, rather than the present. It's almost as though she knows her funeral is coming, and she can feel it coming closer with every footstep. Her thoughts could have been detrimental to her health, because she adds more anxiety with every line of the poem. This metaphorical funeral could materialize into a literal funeral if she keeps this mentality going.
Emily Dickinson
Senses play a key role in this poem. The author feels, hears, and sees all of the things centered around this fictional funeral. The imagery produced by the sensual language is unique in catching the reader's attention. Specifically, the mourners are an influential source of imagery. Their walking affects the poet so much, that she can feel it in her mind. Moreover "those same Boots of Lead" (Dickinson 776) stomp over her mind again, causing her whole world to change. The imagery makes the poem out to be about some life-altering news, rather than an actual death. She always sees the danger lurking into the future, rather than the present. It's almost as though she knows her funeral is coming, and she can feel it coming closer with every footstep. Her thoughts could have been detrimental to her health, because she adds more anxiety with every line of the poem. This metaphorical funeral could materialize into a literal funeral if she keeps this mentality going.
Go home dude.
Bartleby the Scrivener
Herman Melville
I had a fair amount of respect for Bartleby the first time he "preferred not to." His boss assigned him a duty and he basically ignored his request, and that takes guts. As continued to ignore the Lawyer, it became less funny and more annoying. Why couldn't the Lawyer simply order Bartleby to do something? This is where the Lawyer and Bartleby share similar qualities. The Lawyer characterizes himself as who believes "the easiest way of life is the best" (Melville 642). An easy life entails a life without turbulence such as difficult decisions or confrontation. Though the Lawyer wanted Bartleby to do his job, he wanted more not to cause an uproar. In accepting Bartleby's "prefer not to" request, the Lawyer preferred not to take action and kick Bartleby to the curb. The Lawyer even moved away from his office in order to allow Bartleby to stay out of his hair and still remain at peace. If the Lawyer ever gave one firm command, Bartleby would have become a hard worker or a hobo, but either way Bartleby would not have rotten in a prison cell. It is because of the Lawyer's lack of action that Bartleby ended up in his position, and it was all traced back to preferring not to act.
Herman Melville
I had a fair amount of respect for Bartleby the first time he "preferred not to." His boss assigned him a duty and he basically ignored his request, and that takes guts. As continued to ignore the Lawyer, it became less funny and more annoying. Why couldn't the Lawyer simply order Bartleby to do something? This is where the Lawyer and Bartleby share similar qualities. The Lawyer characterizes himself as who believes "the easiest way of life is the best" (Melville 642). An easy life entails a life without turbulence such as difficult decisions or confrontation. Though the Lawyer wanted Bartleby to do his job, he wanted more not to cause an uproar. In accepting Bartleby's "prefer not to" request, the Lawyer preferred not to take action and kick Bartleby to the curb. The Lawyer even moved away from his office in order to allow Bartleby to stay out of his hair and still remain at peace. If the Lawyer ever gave one firm command, Bartleby would have become a hard worker or a hobo, but either way Bartleby would not have rotten in a prison cell. It is because of the Lawyer's lack of action that Bartleby ended up in his position, and it was all traced back to preferring not to act.
Schizophrenic Miss Brill
Miss Brill
Katherine Mansfield
Miss Brill recounts her Sunday in this short story, and she tells the reader all about the people she sees and interacts with. I have an analysis that Miss Brill either embodies these people or possesses similar qualities that characterize her visitors. I may be so rash she thinks she is all of the people she talks about. With every guest at her "special spot," she tends to resemble them or a previous visitor. This leads me to believe she has multiple personalities that exemplify the traits of all those that she notices. However, the kicker is that Miss Brill doesn't realize she's crazy (well most people tend not to admit their insanity). She believes that she "[has] been an actress for a long time" (Mansfield 185). These Sunday trips may not be real at all, for she could just be "acting out" what she would see and do and recounting her acting to the reader. Even the music shifts to match her mood or the atmosphere around her, implying a more play-like story. Miss Brill is an actress, but she's an actress within her own mind, putting on a play for her deranged mind to enjoy.
Katherine Mansfield
Miss Brill recounts her Sunday in this short story, and she tells the reader all about the people she sees and interacts with. I have an analysis that Miss Brill either embodies these people or possesses similar qualities that characterize her visitors. I may be so rash she thinks she is all of the people she talks about. With every guest at her "special spot," she tends to resemble them or a previous visitor. This leads me to believe she has multiple personalities that exemplify the traits of all those that she notices. However, the kicker is that Miss Brill doesn't realize she's crazy (well most people tend not to admit their insanity). She believes that she "[has] been an actress for a long time" (Mansfield 185). These Sunday trips may not be real at all, for she could just be "acting out" what she would see and do and recounting her acting to the reader. Even the music shifts to match her mood or the atmosphere around her, implying a more play-like story. Miss Brill is an actress, but she's an actress within her own mind, putting on a play for her deranged mind to enjoy.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
I'm pretty sure Emily is the crazy one
Much Madness is divinest Sense
Emily Dickinson
For some bizarre reason, the author believes that insanity truly lies in those who think they are sane. She states how the crazy people are actually normal, yet the people with "much sense--the starkest madness" (Dickinson 830). Anyone that seems to make sense, according to Dickinson, is a total lunatic and spouting out gibberish as though it were fact. Now she poses a paradox, which is generally an accepted and useful tool for pointing out flaws in societal thinking. her paradoxical line of thinking turns her message into one of anger and demand. Her stance comes off as a total wackjob herself when she starts to play the crazy detective. She states that all who agree with her opinions are the sane people, and all who oppose will be burned alive!!! Well actually she wants her opposition to be called maniacs and locked up, but it's still a extreme, power-hungry approach coming from a nineteenth century poet. So her views somewhat match the theme of her poet. She sets the law for those to follow, insinuating she is right, therefore sane, therefore insane. The title applies to herself, for her insanity is the most correct mentality.
Emily Dickinson
For some bizarre reason, the author believes that insanity truly lies in those who think they are sane. She states how the crazy people are actually normal, yet the people with "much sense--the starkest madness" (Dickinson 830). Anyone that seems to make sense, according to Dickinson, is a total lunatic and spouting out gibberish as though it were fact. Now she poses a paradox, which is generally an accepted and useful tool for pointing out flaws in societal thinking. her paradoxical line of thinking turns her message into one of anger and demand. Her stance comes off as a total wackjob herself when she starts to play the crazy detective. She states that all who agree with her opinions are the sane people, and all who oppose will be burned alive!!! Well actually she wants her opposition to be called maniacs and locked up, but it's still a extreme, power-hungry approach coming from a nineteenth century poet. So her views somewhat match the theme of her poet. She sets the law for those to follow, insinuating she is right, therefore sane, therefore insane. The title applies to herself, for her insanity is the most correct mentality.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Death, be not proud
Death, be not proud
John Donne
The author has personified death as someone he his talking to. This is evident in the title, for one (since it's not all capitalized), and he addresses Death as a person or being. He proclaims that death kills people, but that is his job and he shouldn't be ashamed of it. However, Death shouldn't feel as though he is invincible; he shouldn't feel as though he himself can never die. The author recounts all the ways people die in the world. He says how war and sickness harm people, and then luck and medicine heal people, yet Death still comes inevitably. But then the author says how after "One short sleep passed, we wake eternally" (Donne 972). The short sleep is Death finally coming to take a person from life. However, because death comes, eternal life quickly follows the passing of an individual. It is because of this that Death dies himself. Eternal life goes against the pain and misery that dying brings, and therefore kills the idea of Death. The author does not fear Death and his 100% success rate, because in the end Death always fails.
John Donne
The author has personified death as someone he his talking to. This is evident in the title, for one (since it's not all capitalized), and he addresses Death as a person or being. He proclaims that death kills people, but that is his job and he shouldn't be ashamed of it. However, Death shouldn't feel as though he is invincible; he shouldn't feel as though he himself can never die. The author recounts all the ways people die in the world. He says how war and sickness harm people, and then luck and medicine heal people, yet Death still comes inevitably. But then the author says how after "One short sleep passed, we wake eternally" (Donne 972). The short sleep is Death finally coming to take a person from life. However, because death comes, eternal life quickly follows the passing of an individual. It is because of this that Death dies himself. Eternal life goes against the pain and misery that dying brings, and therefore kills the idea of Death. The author does not fear Death and his 100% success rate, because in the end Death always fails.
Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night
Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night
Dylan Thomas
Imagery powers the message the author tries to get across in this poem. He talks about how people refuse to openly accept death, but he uses examples of light to relay this message. "Wise men at their end know dark is right" (Thomas 968) realize death isimminent, yet they still fight it to live another day. Other men are "crying how bright their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay" (Thomas 968). These people start to see how their life is passing by, and how their experiences haven't lived up to their expectations. Even men who partied night and day, quickly saw how death would take away all of their experiences.Men who were moments away from death were the only ones "who see the blinding sight...and [can] be gay" (Thomas 968). Those were are dying are the only people that can be happy for death, but everyone else is doomed to fear the reaper.
Dylan Thomas
Imagery powers the message the author tries to get across in this poem. He talks about how people refuse to openly accept death, but he uses examples of light to relay this message. "Wise men at their end know dark is right" (Thomas 968) realize death isimminent, yet they still fight it to live another day. Other men are "crying how bright their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay" (Thomas 968). These people start to see how their life is passing by, and how their experiences haven't lived up to their expectations. Even men who partied night and day, quickly saw how death would take away all of their experiences.Men who were moments away from death were the only ones "who see the blinding sight...and [can] be gay" (Thomas 968). Those were are dying are the only people that can be happy for death, but everyone else is doomed to fear the reaper.
Cross the bar
Crossing the Bar
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
First of all, the title is confusing; it makes me think of a bar in which adult beverages are served. On to the analysis! The poem discusses, through a metaphor, how a man wants to be seen after his death. He uses the analogy of going on a voyage and not returning to resemble dying. He doesn't want people to feel saddened by his passing, because his death will give him eternal life. He says this by saying "I hope to see my Pilot face to face when I have crossed the bar" (Tennyson 886). His pilot is his creator, God (most likely), and through his death by "crossing the bar," he hopes to go to heaven and experience his blessings with God. Even if his death is painful and a struggle, he still remains hopeful for the joys of heaven when he dies. He uses key language such as "embark" and "put out to sea" to symbolize a beginning. His death will be the start of his new life, and he wants people to recognize this so that they praise his death rather than mourn it. Death is merely the beginning of eternal celebration.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
First of all, the title is confusing; it makes me think of a bar in which adult beverages are served. On to the analysis! The poem discusses, through a metaphor, how a man wants to be seen after his death. He uses the analogy of going on a voyage and not returning to resemble dying. He doesn't want people to feel saddened by his passing, because his death will give him eternal life. He says this by saying "I hope to see my Pilot face to face when I have crossed the bar" (Tennyson 886). His pilot is his creator, God (most likely), and through his death by "crossing the bar," he hopes to go to heaven and experience his blessings with God. Even if his death is painful and a struggle, he still remains hopeful for the joys of heaven when he dies. He uses key language such as "embark" and "put out to sea" to symbolize a beginning. His death will be the start of his new life, and he wants people to recognize this so that they praise his death rather than mourn it. Death is merely the beginning of eternal celebration.
Emily seems....nice
A Rose for Emily
William Faulkner
Emily Grierson was never really messed with throughout her life. People refused to confront her on most issues, they feared her and thought she had dealt with enough in her life. The reader is only expected to picture her as a stuck up hermit of sorts throughout the story. However, the big reveal of the skeleton in her closet (Do you get it? It's because she's into necrophilia...) makes the reader have a drastic change in opinion of her. At first the feeling is that of terror and disgust. After all, who could live with a corpse for 40 years?! But, upon review of the story, the reader feels pity. Emily had been alone most of her (normal) life, and when Homer came around she knew that she needed his company so that she didn't die alone. Now her methods of being with Homer were...out of the ordinary, but the intent remains the same. She even got the townspeople talking saying, "'They are married.' We were really glad" (Faulkner 287). She wanted to love him for the rest of her life, but he was having none of it. Personally, it's one of the saddest things I have ever heard of, but nevertheless Emily's unrequited love dilemma didn't stop her. So I now have mixed feelings of fright and sympathy towards her, possibly the oddest combination of emotions I have ever experienced.
William Faulkner
Emily Grierson was never really messed with throughout her life. People refused to confront her on most issues, they feared her and thought she had dealt with enough in her life. The reader is only expected to picture her as a stuck up hermit of sorts throughout the story. However, the big reveal of the skeleton in her closet (Do you get it? It's because she's into necrophilia...) makes the reader have a drastic change in opinion of her. At first the feeling is that of terror and disgust. After all, who could live with a corpse for 40 years?! But, upon review of the story, the reader feels pity. Emily had been alone most of her (normal) life, and when Homer came around she knew that she needed his company so that she didn't die alone. Now her methods of being with Homer were...out of the ordinary, but the intent remains the same. She even got the townspeople talking saying, "'They are married.' We were really glad" (Faulkner 287). She wanted to love him for the rest of her life, but he was having none of it. Personally, it's one of the saddest things I have ever heard of, but nevertheless Emily's unrequited love dilemma didn't stop her. So I now have mixed feelings of fright and sympathy towards her, possibly the oddest combination of emotions I have ever experienced.
I wonder if powerball sponsors their lottery?
The Lottery
Shirley Jackson
The story tricks the reader with its title, making the reader assume the story will be one of great luck or fortune. However, it turns out that the one chosen by the lottery ends up being sacrificed. The sacrifice was done because it had been done for generations, but that reason isn't good enough for me. The society is advanced enough to have tractors and a schooling system, so why would they still believe that this sacrifice would help them in any way? No one enforced the stoning, people just followed it; the ritual brought no one joy, it was rather viewed as insignificant. The attitude of the town during the lottery is summarized when Mrs Dunbar says, "'Come on,' she said. 'Hurry up'" (Jackson 271). If an advanced farming society understood their crop and machines, then they couldn't possibly believe the sacrifice would really help the harvest. The tradition that everyone can only make sense in the case that everyone is too spineless to ask questions or find alternatives. The main force behind these thoughts is most likely Old Man Warner. He stubbornly states how "There's always been a lottery" (Jackson 268), and the citizens blindly listen to his "sage wisdom". Maybe the village will change once Old Man Warner finally croaks.
Shirley Jackson
The story tricks the reader with its title, making the reader assume the story will be one of great luck or fortune. However, it turns out that the one chosen by the lottery ends up being sacrificed. The sacrifice was done because it had been done for generations, but that reason isn't good enough for me. The society is advanced enough to have tractors and a schooling system, so why would they still believe that this sacrifice would help them in any way? No one enforced the stoning, people just followed it; the ritual brought no one joy, it was rather viewed as insignificant. The attitude of the town during the lottery is summarized when Mrs Dunbar says, "'Come on,' she said. 'Hurry up'" (Jackson 271). If an advanced farming society understood their crop and machines, then they couldn't possibly believe the sacrifice would really help the harvest. The tradition that everyone can only make sense in the case that everyone is too spineless to ask questions or find alternatives. The main force behind these thoughts is most likely Old Man Warner. He stubbornly states how "There's always been a lottery" (Jackson 268), and the citizens blindly listen to his "sage wisdom". Maybe the village will change once Old Man Warner finally croaks.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
The End.
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
Tom takes center stage adressing the audience for the final time at the end of the play. He left the family much like his father to chase adventure, but one part of his story is different from his father's. Tom never seems to be able to escape Laura. As he lives his new life, he is constantly reminded her in one way or another. He especially thinks of her when seeing glass, which serves as an excellent example of motif. When he walks alone, he sees "the window is filled with pieces of colored glass...then all at once my sister touches my shoulder." (Williams 1289). Not only was the glass a symbol for Laura's confidence during the play, but the glass conjures up the thought of Laura within Tom whenever he sees her. It causes him to think of the past, possibly prompting this very memory play! He left his family because he wanted to leave the routine he was trapped in, but he could never escape his sister. His sister was the only one who ever wanted to look out for him, but didn't want to prevent him from making his own decisions. Because of her and her menagerie, Tom will always have Laura by his side.
Family problems
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
As discussed previously, the family has had some major fights. Beyond that, the family is purely dysfunctional. For example, Amanda is doomed to live in the past. She can never shake how she had crashed and burned when she pick the absentee father from all her other gentleman callers. This crippling mistake led her to a life of constant worrying for her children, so that they don't make similar mistakes that she did. Tom only wants to rebel against his father BECAUSE she's such a nag, which causes him to walk out on the family just as the father did. Who knows if it turned out to make Tom successful in life, but it definitely didn't help the remaining family members. Lastly there's Laura, who by herself was fairly content with life. Though she didn't stray far from the house, she liked her life the way it was despite her low self esteem. On the other hand, her mother and brother were always concerned with her well-being. They loved her, but even Tom concedes that "we don't even notice she's crippled anymore" (Williams 1260). Their worry transforms into anger which then morphs into desperation for Laura to become "normal" even though she is fine with the way she is. A family that can't even have similar mindsets is doomed, and that's exactly what the Wigfields turned out to be.
Tennessee Williams
As discussed previously, the family has had some major fights. Beyond that, the family is purely dysfunctional. For example, Amanda is doomed to live in the past. She can never shake how she had crashed and burned when she pick the absentee father from all her other gentleman callers. This crippling mistake led her to a life of constant worrying for her children, so that they don't make similar mistakes that she did. Tom only wants to rebel against his father BECAUSE she's such a nag, which causes him to walk out on the family just as the father did. Who knows if it turned out to make Tom successful in life, but it definitely didn't help the remaining family members. Lastly there's Laura, who by herself was fairly content with life. Though she didn't stray far from the house, she liked her life the way it was despite her low self esteem. On the other hand, her mother and brother were always concerned with her well-being. They loved her, but even Tom concedes that "we don't even notice she's crippled anymore" (Williams 1260). Their worry transforms into anger which then morphs into desperation for Laura to become "normal" even though she is fine with the way she is. A family that can't even have similar mindsets is doomed, and that's exactly what the Wigfields turned out to be.
A wild GENTLEMAN CALLER appeared!
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
Jim O'Connor was an assumed gentleman caller for Laura, a date that was just supposed to be a pleasant change of pace. However, he turned out to have much more potential. In fact, I believe that Jim was the most proactive character of the entire play. Even though he only was involved with the play for one evening, he had significant influence on every character. Amanda was a happier (or at least she pretended to be) person when he arrived, and Tom entrusted his true intentions with him. Most importantly, he shaped Laura's personality with his simple visit. She was always a timid, frail individual, and it was evident during the beginning of their conversation. But as things progressed, he eased her discomfort and made her more open to communication. Even though he wasn't planning on falling in love with her, he wanted to make sure she was happy. He wanted her to "think of yourself as superior in someway!" (Williams 1280) which was something Laura never even thought was possible. However, a plain old gentleman caller turned her world upside-down, and undoubtedly changed the whole way the family lived from that day forth. Laura would probably become more self-confident, Tom would be more adventurous, and Amanda may not have to nag all the time.
Tennessee Williams
Jim O'Connor was an assumed gentleman caller for Laura, a date that was just supposed to be a pleasant change of pace. However, he turned out to have much more potential. In fact, I believe that Jim was the most proactive character of the entire play. Even though he only was involved with the play for one evening, he had significant influence on every character. Amanda was a happier (or at least she pretended to be) person when he arrived, and Tom entrusted his true intentions with him. Most importantly, he shaped Laura's personality with his simple visit. She was always a timid, frail individual, and it was evident during the beginning of their conversation. But as things progressed, he eased her discomfort and made her more open to communication. Even though he wasn't planning on falling in love with her, he wanted to make sure she was happy. He wanted her to "think of yourself as superior in someway!" (Williams 1280) which was something Laura never even thought was possible. However, a plain old gentleman caller turned her world upside-down, and undoubtedly changed the whole way the family lived from that day forth. Laura would probably become more self-confident, Tom would be more adventurous, and Amanda may not have to nag all the time.
An unfortunate role model
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
The father of the story had left his family for travel and adventure before the play even begins. Upon hearing this, I thought the father was a coward and an unloving man who simply didn't want to spend time with his family. The other members even reference his picture multiple times, warning each other to not end up like him or to never go near a man like him. But the constant attention towards the photo, though it may be bad attention, makes me think the family actually highly respects him. Even though he deserted the family for meager reasons, they still hang up his photo and refer to him as a role model. Tom recognizes that his father was a bad man, but he still wants to follow his example to escape his current life. He gazes up at the photo saying "See how he grins? And he's been absent going on sixteen years!" (Williams 1269). Though everyone disagrees with hoe he abandoned them, they all fondly remember some part of him, which ends up influencing their actions. Through personification, the picture of the father manipulates the minds of the main characters simply by hanging on the wall. If the picture wasn't on display, I think the family would be reminded of him much less and he wouldn't serve such a significant role. Even in leaving his family so that he can see the world, the father is viewed as one of the most important characters in the entire play.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
War, what is it good for?!
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
Tom and Amanda routinely argue throughout the play, but the epitome of their fights occurs at the end of scene 3. Tom calls her a witch, and proceeds to break part of Laura's glass menagerie, making him successful and angering the entire household. As the next scene begins, we learn that Laura desperately needs order. She tells Tom to "wake up with [mother], apologize, speak to her!" (Williams 1249). Even though Tom damaged one of Laura's most precious items, she still begs Tom to make things better with him and Amanda rather than healing herself. Laura thinks she can fight through her own problems, but she can only do it if the rest of the house is at peace too. Tom is reluctant, but eventually does it for, in my opinion, Laura's well-being. Tom knows Laura is fragile and needs her family to keep her safe, so he apologizes to Amanda so that they can forget about their differences and focus on Laura and her needs. This displays one of the few good qualities of Tom. Though he seemingly is ready to run away from his current life, he wants to make sure his beloved sister is happy with him and that she will be okay. Even when he does leave at the end of the play, his one regret is that he couldn't stay with Laura.
Tennessee Williams
Tom and Amanda routinely argue throughout the play, but the epitome of their fights occurs at the end of scene 3. Tom calls her a witch, and proceeds to break part of Laura's glass menagerie, making him successful and angering the entire household. As the next scene begins, we learn that Laura desperately needs order. She tells Tom to "wake up with [mother], apologize, speak to her!" (Williams 1249). Even though Tom damaged one of Laura's most precious items, she still begs Tom to make things better with him and Amanda rather than healing herself. Laura thinks she can fight through her own problems, but she can only do it if the rest of the house is at peace too. Tom is reluctant, but eventually does it for, in my opinion, Laura's well-being. Tom knows Laura is fragile and needs her family to keep her safe, so he apologizes to Amanda so that they can forget about their differences and focus on Laura and her needs. This displays one of the few good qualities of Tom. Though he seemingly is ready to run away from his current life, he wants to make sure his beloved sister is happy with him and that she will be okay. Even when he does leave at the end of the play, his one regret is that he couldn't stay with Laura.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
A woman expresses the Joy of Cooking
The Joy of Cooking
Elaine Magarrell
It's not a sexist title, I swear. The author uses diction to artfully describes why each of her siblings has qualities that annoy her. She says that she wants to cook her sister's tongue, because she presumably lies, is annoying, or is always wrong whenever she talks. No matter what, the poem depicts how her sister's tongue would be better as a dish rather than still in her sister's mouth. She really grills (OH MY GOSH ITS A FOOD PUN!!) her brother and his tiny heart.
the baby thinks I'm funny.
She calls him an unloving man, but by using cooking terms by calling it dry, and saying a sour sauce would have been a good addition. She also says that it "needs an apple-onion stuffing to make it interesting at all" (Magarrell). An apple and onion combination could never taste good, but the contrasting flavors are needed to wash away the horrible taste of her brother's heart. Though the author writes this sinister poem, it's probably used as as a ruse so that she could just express her anger with them. Brothers and sisters always fight, but they rarely want to eat each other. The poem secretly reveals the bond that all siblings tend to share, giving the poem a slightly happier under tone.
Elaine Magarrell
It's not a sexist title, I swear. The author uses diction to artfully describes why each of her siblings has qualities that annoy her. She says that she wants to cook her sister's tongue, because she presumably lies, is annoying, or is always wrong whenever she talks. No matter what, the poem depicts how her sister's tongue would be better as a dish rather than still in her sister's mouth. She really grills (OH MY GOSH ITS A FOOD PUN!!) her brother and his tiny heart.
the baby thinks I'm funny.She calls him an unloving man, but by using cooking terms by calling it dry, and saying a sour sauce would have been a good addition. She also says that it "needs an apple-onion stuffing to make it interesting at all" (Magarrell). An apple and onion combination could never taste good, but the contrasting flavors are needed to wash away the horrible taste of her brother's heart. Though the author writes this sinister poem, it's probably used as as a ruse so that she could just express her anger with them. Brothers and sisters always fight, but they rarely want to eat each other. The poem secretly reveals the bond that all siblings tend to share, giving the poem a slightly happier under tone.
Those winter sundays
Those Winter Sundays
Robert Hayden
That kid is a little brat (the narrator). The father of the narrator is a hard-working provider for the father. He woke up early to brave the winter in order to make his house warm and safe for everyone else. The child, however, does not seem to care that his house is comfortable and refuses to acknowledge the kindness of the father. This would be common behavior for any child, but the poem made it seem as though he was totally uncaring for his father. It was almost as if the father had to fight for the affection of his children, even if it meant putting himself through the bitter weather to make his children happy. The imagery contributes to this by stating that one could "hear the cold splintering, breaking" (Hayden 781) as the house would warm because of the father. The house that the child was used to was comfortable and cheery, yet no cheer was shared between father and son. The father simply could not catch a break, yet the son's regret had filled him later in his life, prompting the writing of this poem.
Robert Hayden
That kid is a little brat (the narrator). The father of the narrator is a hard-working provider for the father. He woke up early to brave the winter in order to make his house warm and safe for everyone else. The child, however, does not seem to care that his house is comfortable and refuses to acknowledge the kindness of the father. This would be common behavior for any child, but the poem made it seem as though he was totally uncaring for his father. It was almost as if the father had to fight for the affection of his children, even if it meant putting himself through the bitter weather to make his children happy. The imagery contributes to this by stating that one could "hear the cold splintering, breaking" (Hayden 781) as the house would warm because of the father. The house that the child was used to was comfortable and cheery, yet no cheer was shared between father and son. The father simply could not catch a break, yet the son's regret had filled him later in his life, prompting the writing of this poem.
The Drunkard
The Dunkard
Frank O'Connor
The Father in this story truly got the short end of the stick. The author cleverly used pathos by explaining the plight of Father throughout the story. He initially had a successful life; he worked hard, saved wisely, and studied as much as he could so he could engage in intellectual debates. When his friend Mr Dooley would talk to him, he felt accomplished, for Dooley was a man of great accomplishment himself and he had a high social status. When he died, Father wasn't so much upset as he was astounded by the impact Dooley left. The awe that struck Father throughout the time near Dooley's death made Father feel satisfied, not only with Dooley but with how he himself had lived his life. The satisfaction "grew till it called for some celebration. Then he took a drink..." (O'Connor 344). The drinking began to tear the family apart, and the son had to be by his father side while his life was wasted away. While in the bar after the funeral, the son became so thirsty that he forced down his father's alcohol and quickly became intoxicated. He didn't necessarily want to do it, but he wasn't too mad that it had happened. Father, however, has both worried and furious that he had accidentally gotten his son drunk. Not only that, but the boy fell and cut his head wide opened, which was on display for the whole street as his father carried him home. The sneers of the women loitering the streets were targeted at Father, but the son assumed they were at him causing him to get a little testy. Nevertheless, the father got him home alright and, for the most part, safe, but the mother was furious at the father, or so I thought. After a heated argument, the mother came in and kissed the son on the forehead, revealing that the incidents will lead his father away from drinking once again. Having his son drunk must have completely embarrassed the father, so he would have to put off drinking if he ever wanted to have a respectable reputation again!
Frank O'Connor
The Father in this story truly got the short end of the stick. The author cleverly used pathos by explaining the plight of Father throughout the story. He initially had a successful life; he worked hard, saved wisely, and studied as much as he could so he could engage in intellectual debates. When his friend Mr Dooley would talk to him, he felt accomplished, for Dooley was a man of great accomplishment himself and he had a high social status. When he died, Father wasn't so much upset as he was astounded by the impact Dooley left. The awe that struck Father throughout the time near Dooley's death made Father feel satisfied, not only with Dooley but with how he himself had lived his life. The satisfaction "grew till it called for some celebration. Then he took a drink..." (O'Connor 344). The drinking began to tear the family apart, and the son had to be by his father side while his life was wasted away. While in the bar after the funeral, the son became so thirsty that he forced down his father's alcohol and quickly became intoxicated. He didn't necessarily want to do it, but he wasn't too mad that it had happened. Father, however, has both worried and furious that he had accidentally gotten his son drunk. Not only that, but the boy fell and cut his head wide opened, which was on display for the whole street as his father carried him home. The sneers of the women loitering the streets were targeted at Father, but the son assumed they were at him causing him to get a little testy. Nevertheless, the father got him home alright and, for the most part, safe, but the mother was furious at the father, or so I thought. After a heated argument, the mother came in and kissed the son on the forehead, revealing that the incidents will lead his father away from drinking once again. Having his son drunk must have completely embarrassed the father, so he would have to put off drinking if he ever wanted to have a respectable reputation again!
A Worn Path
A Worn Path
Eudora Welty
Phoenix Jackson is a grandmother battered by old age and a loopy mind, but she is the most determined person I have ever read about. She makes a trek through fields and forests in order to get to the city so she can buy medicine for her grandson. The reader learns that Phoenix doesn't have all her marbles when she has multiple visions/delusions during her journey. Not only that, but when she finally arrives at the hospital Phoenix forgot why she was even there, later realizing that it was "My grandson. It was my memory that had left me" (Welty 229). If Phoenix could forget her grandson, the reason she trekked such a treacherous journey, then she must be suppressing the thought of him in some way. The grandson is dead, but Phoenix loves him so much that she still tries to save the memory of him by walking the worn path to get the medicine. It is her determination and her love that drives her to help her grandson, even though she can't physically save him. However, she still has the ability to nurture the memory of him, which has already began to slip from her mind. As long as Phoenix continues her routine of travelling to the hospital, her grandson shall live forever within her.
Eudora Welty
Phoenix Jackson is a grandmother battered by old age and a loopy mind, but she is the most determined person I have ever read about. She makes a trek through fields and forests in order to get to the city so she can buy medicine for her grandson. The reader learns that Phoenix doesn't have all her marbles when she has multiple visions/delusions during her journey. Not only that, but when she finally arrives at the hospital Phoenix forgot why she was even there, later realizing that it was "My grandson. It was my memory that had left me" (Welty 229). If Phoenix could forget her grandson, the reason she trekked such a treacherous journey, then she must be suppressing the thought of him in some way. The grandson is dead, but Phoenix loves him so much that she still tries to save the memory of him by walking the worn path to get the medicine. It is her determination and her love that drives her to help her grandson, even though she can't physically save him. However, she still has the ability to nurture the memory of him, which has already began to slip from her mind. As long as Phoenix continues her routine of travelling to the hospital, her grandson shall live forever within her.
Once Upon a Nightmarish Time
Once Upon a Time
Nadine Gordimer
The short story was seemingly conjured up by Gordimer purely out of spite all because someone suggested she should write a children's story. The story begins much like a fairy tale with a happy family in a happy neighborhood. The problem lies within the sense of wanting to stay happy. Burglaries have happened in the neighborhood so residents progressively take more sever precautions to maintain a sense of safety. The high fences, electronic locks, and alarm systems both polluted the neighborhood and became a part of it. When one alarm system would go off, it usually set off the entire block's alarm systems "so that the din roused the inhabitants of the suburb no more than the croak of frogs..." (Gordimder 234, 235). The plaques that were mounted on every fence stated YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED, which seemed to foreshadow how those who put up the security systems were truly the ones being warned. As they put up more defense against criminals, they caged themselves into a dangerous castle. The cage that the family had built ended up only harming the son of the family, nearly mutilating him as he struggled to get out. The story ends referring back to the initial concept of happily ever after, except the family is joined together in mourning within a chaotic lifestyle.
Nadine Gordimer
The short story was seemingly conjured up by Gordimer purely out of spite all because someone suggested she should write a children's story. The story begins much like a fairy tale with a happy family in a happy neighborhood. The problem lies within the sense of wanting to stay happy. Burglaries have happened in the neighborhood so residents progressively take more sever precautions to maintain a sense of safety. The high fences, electronic locks, and alarm systems both polluted the neighborhood and became a part of it. When one alarm system would go off, it usually set off the entire block's alarm systems "so that the din roused the inhabitants of the suburb no more than the croak of frogs..." (Gordimder 234, 235). The plaques that were mounted on every fence stated YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED, which seemed to foreshadow how those who put up the security systems were truly the ones being warned. As they put up more defense against criminals, they caged themselves into a dangerous castle. The cage that the family had built ended up only harming the son of the family, nearly mutilating him as he struggled to get out. The story ends referring back to the initial concept of happily ever after, except the family is joined together in mourning within a chaotic lifestyle.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
The beginning and the end
A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry
The play has two symbols (that I noticed) in the beginning and in the end of the play. The first was the family's bickering. The whole first scene of the play made me feel like I was listening to a family on the verge of destruction. The parents fought, still lived with extended family, and had another child coming on the way. By the end of the play, the happy family was still arguing even as they were setting off onto their new life. the arguments make me think that they symbolize unity. Though thick and thin, they were a family and they were going to fight with each other in one way or another. The more symbolic symbol (I swear it makes sense) is the plant that Mama cares for. Mama mentions, almost as a side thought, that "if this little old plant don't get more sun than it's been getting it ain't never going to see spring again" (Hansberry 448). The plant is near death, and the family seems the same way. As the family is packing at the end of the play, Mama is making everyone aware that she has carefully packaged the plant for when they move. This act symbolizes how Mama has "packaged" all of her family for the journey ahead, and how their family will survive the new start. The play finally concludes with Mama grabbing the plant and closing the apartment door. Mama has guided her family, taken care of it with love and attention, and carried them with her to a new life.
Lorraine Hansberry
The play has two symbols (that I noticed) in the beginning and in the end of the play. The first was the family's bickering. The whole first scene of the play made me feel like I was listening to a family on the verge of destruction. The parents fought, still lived with extended family, and had another child coming on the way. By the end of the play, the happy family was still arguing even as they were setting off onto their new life. the arguments make me think that they symbolize unity. Though thick and thin, they were a family and they were going to fight with each other in one way or another. The more symbolic symbol (I swear it makes sense) is the plant that Mama cares for. Mama mentions, almost as a side thought, that "if this little old plant don't get more sun than it's been getting it ain't never going to see spring again" (Hansberry 448). The plant is near death, and the family seems the same way. As the family is packing at the end of the play, Mama is making everyone aware that she has carefully packaged the plant for when they move. This act symbolizes how Mama has "packaged" all of her family for the journey ahead, and how their family will survive the new start. The play finally concludes with Mama grabbing the plant and closing the apartment door. Mama has guided her family, taken care of it with love and attention, and carried them with her to a new life.
The wise sage, Asagai
A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry
Asagai comes to visit Beneatha occasionally at the house because he likes her attitude about life. I'm sure he is physically attracted to her too, but he particularly likes how she wants to rise above all the stereotypes and prejudices she faces in order to help the common good. Asagai sees this in her, and treats her with respect when he talks with her. After Walter loses the money, Benetha practically gives up her dreams because she feels the evil can never be cured in this world, let alone by her. When Asagai stops by, his reasoning is that "I had some free time. I thought I might help with the packing" (Hansberry 519). He literally stops by out of the goodness of his heart, making one think that his presence will have little effect on the situation. However, Asagai recognizes how Bennie has changed her views on the world, and he is compelled to explain to her how she must revert back to her old way of thinking. Asagai single-handedly shows Bennie how, though the bad in the world will always look for a way to get worse, Bennie has a chance to go out and fight that bad. Bennie has the ability and the mind to face her opposition and transform the evil into a new sense of goodness. Asagai was close to getting Bennie to marry him and move back to Africa to overthrow the British and French colonial empires. Asagai's kind heart of wanting to help a girl pack turned into him re-exciting that girl's most important aspirations. The play ends before Bennie decided what to do with the rest of her life, but whatever she chooses, she will probably be with Asagai.
ooooooh ghoooooosts!
A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry
Act I of the play is centered around this insurance money and what to do with it. The Youngers received the 10,000 dollars because the father and grandfather, Mr. Big Walter Younger, had passed away and his life insurance was paid off. The family is constantly reminded of how Big Walter practically worked his life away in order to get that money to the family, and the insurance money is his lasting legacy. Not only are the Youngers reminded of him through the money, but also in the house. Mama and Big Walter bought the house together and lived there all of their lives, so the presence of Big Walter never really left the apartment. The sense of his being is most evident in arguments between Walter and Mama. Mama wants Walter to act like the proud, good man Big Walter was, but Walter is too timid to truly live up to his name. He falls to follow in his father's footsteps multiple times throughout the play, and Mama routinely shows her disappointment in him. Walter finally stands up for the family when they refuse to concede to Mr Lindner's proposal of moving to a new home. When Lindner goes to ask Mama if she has a different answer, she says "My son said we was going to move and there ain't nothing left for me to say" (Hansberry 533). This is the only time Mama is proud of her son taking up responsibility to protect the hopes and dreams of the family. Mama inadvertently proclaims her son as the ultimate decider and the new man of the house.
I want to fly like an eagle
A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry
The setting plays a key role throughout the play, it mainly serves as a reason to leave. The southside of Chicago seemed to only hold back Walter and Beneatha, and they desperately wanted things to change. Walter saw his home as society's way of holding him back because he was a black man. He lived in a poor area with a poor house surrounded by poor people, and he wanted to be wealthy and to be equal to those who felt so inferior to. Bennie wanted to leave in order to make a name for herself. She wanted to be a doctor so that she could try to cure the world of the sickness that infected, but she knew she could never make any progress being shackled down in Chicago. She had dreams of going to Africa in order to strengthen the people so that they could be strong enough to take down their oppressive colonizers. Bennie couldn't take down her own oppessors (the white people), so she thought she may be able to make a difference in a new land. Asagai taught Bennie that he could "teach and work and things will happen, slowly and swiftly" (Hansberry 522). Bennie took up this outlook when her brother Walter could never do. Walter was all about changing his ways as soon as possible. Walter's plan may work, but Bennie's plan will pay off greater in the end.
Lorraine Hansberry
The setting plays a key role throughout the play, it mainly serves as a reason to leave. The southside of Chicago seemed to only hold back Walter and Beneatha, and they desperately wanted things to change. Walter saw his home as society's way of holding him back because he was a black man. He lived in a poor area with a poor house surrounded by poor people, and he wanted to be wealthy and to be equal to those who felt so inferior to. Bennie wanted to leave in order to make a name for herself. She wanted to be a doctor so that she could try to cure the world of the sickness that infected, but she knew she could never make any progress being shackled down in Chicago. She had dreams of going to Africa in order to strengthen the people so that they could be strong enough to take down their oppressive colonizers. Bennie couldn't take down her own oppessors (the white people), so she thought she may be able to make a difference in a new land. Asagai taught Bennie that he could "teach and work and things will happen, slowly and swiftly" (Hansberry 522). Bennie took up this outlook when her brother Walter could never do. Walter was all about changing his ways as soon as possible. Walter's plan may work, but Bennie's plan will pay off greater in the end.
Meet the Youngers!
A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry
The Youngers are an African-American value built on simple values and hard work living in the Southside of Chicago. The mother of the Family, Mama, would be considered someone who wondered what happened. She raised a family in a dinky apartment that she expected to move out of within a year. Time went by, and soon enough she became a grandmother in that very same home. Her son, Walter, was a man who was tired of his way a life, and wanted to be a man who would make things happen. Walter went about "making things happen" in all the wrong ways. Instead of aiming at getting a better job and/or working harder, he planned to get rich quick by buying a selling a liquor store. He had the mindset to turn his life around, but his execution was poor. His wife, Ruth, knew this and was against it, but faithfully watched him and their family go through life in their apartment. Through indirect characterization, the author reveals that Ruth has resentment towards her own home, but is willing to deal with her emotions in order to at least have a secure home to live in. She even concedes that the house has greater value by stating “Lord knows, we’ve put enough rent into this here rat trap to pay for four houses by now…” (Hansberry 452). The quote shows the effort put into the home, but how it still is a worthless shack of a home in Ruth's watchful eyes.
Lorraine Hansberry
The Youngers are an African-American value built on simple values and hard work living in the Southside of Chicago. The mother of the Family, Mama, would be considered someone who wondered what happened. She raised a family in a dinky apartment that she expected to move out of within a year. Time went by, and soon enough she became a grandmother in that very same home. Her son, Walter, was a man who was tired of his way a life, and wanted to be a man who would make things happen. Walter went about "making things happen" in all the wrong ways. Instead of aiming at getting a better job and/or working harder, he planned to get rich quick by buying a selling a liquor store. He had the mindset to turn his life around, but his execution was poor. His wife, Ruth, knew this and was against it, but faithfully watched him and their family go through life in their apartment. Through indirect characterization, the author reveals that Ruth has resentment towards her own home, but is willing to deal with her emotions in order to at least have a secure home to live in. She even concedes that the house has greater value by stating “Lord knows, we’ve put enough rent into this here rat trap to pay for four houses by now…” (Hansberry 452). The quote shows the effort put into the home, but how it still is a worthless shack of a home in Ruth's watchful eyes.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Interpreter of Maladies Analysis
Interpreter of Maladies
Jhumpa Lahiri
The Das family is visiting India as tourists from America. This somewhat shocks their tour guide, Mr Kapasi because they look Indian, but behave very American. It turns out Mr and Mrs Das' parents live in India, and they are just visiting them. Kapasi is a very observant man, and as the tour progresses he begins deciphering the family. The kids are unruly, and the parents don't do much to quell them. The father is very invested in the tour and his tour book, while the mother could care less about the vacation and seemingly only cares about herself. Kapasi notes that "Mr and Mrs Das behaved like older brother and sister, not parents. It seem that they were in charge of the children only for the day..." (Lahiri 151). Randomly Mrs Das begins asking about Kapasi's job and he reveals that he is an interpreter for a doctor. This interests Mrs Das, and she becomes more humanized and she seems kinder. The more questions she asks, the more Kapasi over-thinks the situation. He assumes she is interested in him, and he begins being interested in her. He observes her every physical feature, making me personally quite uncomfortable. He imagines their future love letters back and forth to each other. This thinking continues until Mrs Das reveals why she was so curious in his job; she wanted help on her marital troubles. She had slept with another man which made her son Bobby illegitimate unknowing to everyone but her. She had kept the secret and demanded Kapasi to help her, but he was so shocked to such behavior that he had no response. His response came in his actions when he saved the family from raging monkeys (this story is really all over the place). The chaos had united the family the way a family should be, caring for each other and loving them unconditionally.
Jhumpa Lahiri
The Das family is visiting India as tourists from America. This somewhat shocks their tour guide, Mr Kapasi because they look Indian, but behave very American. It turns out Mr and Mrs Das' parents live in India, and they are just visiting them. Kapasi is a very observant man, and as the tour progresses he begins deciphering the family. The kids are unruly, and the parents don't do much to quell them. The father is very invested in the tour and his tour book, while the mother could care less about the vacation and seemingly only cares about herself. Kapasi notes that "Mr and Mrs Das behaved like older brother and sister, not parents. It seem that they were in charge of the children only for the day..." (Lahiri 151). Randomly Mrs Das begins asking about Kapasi's job and he reveals that he is an interpreter for a doctor. This interests Mrs Das, and she becomes more humanized and she seems kinder. The more questions she asks, the more Kapasi over-thinks the situation. He assumes she is interested in him, and he begins being interested in her. He observes her every physical feature, making me personally quite uncomfortable. He imagines their future love letters back and forth to each other. This thinking continues until Mrs Das reveals why she was so curious in his job; she wanted help on her marital troubles. She had slept with another man which made her son Bobby illegitimate unknowing to everyone but her. She had kept the secret and demanded Kapasi to help her, but he was so shocked to such behavior that he had no response. His response came in his actions when he saved the family from raging monkeys (this story is really all over the place). The chaos had united the family the way a family should be, caring for each other and loving them unconditionally.
Everyday Use analysis
Everyday Use
Alice Walker
The story begins with the tale of two sisters, one successful and pretty and one reserved and unsightly. A mother, which is more manly than motherly, cares for them in a shack of a house. The pretty daughter, Dee, leaves the home the moment she graduates in order to change her life from the poverty she had grew up in. Maggie, the shy daughter, stayed with her mother and lived a life similar to her, working hard and focusing on basic necessities. As time passed the mom and Maggie lived together, waiting for Dee to come back and visit. When she finally did, she brought a hippie of a "husband" back with her; but she had returned home for seemingly one reason, to take items from the home to use as petty decorations around her new home. This interaction shows how Dee has become successful, using her childhood tools now as table-toppers and wall decorations. Dee's growth demonstrates the growth of society as time moves on; it begins with humble beginnings but matures to not appreciate its once precious past. When Dee requested some quilts that were promised for Maggie, the mother snapped and refused to rob the daughter who never got anything in order to provide for the daughter who was handed everything. True irony strikes when Dee yells at her mother, claiming "'You just don't understand...' 'What don't I understand?' I wanted to know 'Your heritage'" (Walker 181). Their heritage is what Dee had abandoned and decided to now use to spice up her living room.
Alice Walker
The story begins with the tale of two sisters, one successful and pretty and one reserved and unsightly. A mother, which is more manly than motherly, cares for them in a shack of a house. The pretty daughter, Dee, leaves the home the moment she graduates in order to change her life from the poverty she had grew up in. Maggie, the shy daughter, stayed with her mother and lived a life similar to her, working hard and focusing on basic necessities. As time passed the mom and Maggie lived together, waiting for Dee to come back and visit. When she finally did, she brought a hippie of a "husband" back with her; but she had returned home for seemingly one reason, to take items from the home to use as petty decorations around her new home. This interaction shows how Dee has become successful, using her childhood tools now as table-toppers and wall decorations. Dee's growth demonstrates the growth of society as time moves on; it begins with humble beginnings but matures to not appreciate its once precious past. When Dee requested some quilts that were promised for Maggie, the mother snapped and refused to rob the daughter who never got anything in order to provide for the daughter who was handed everything. True irony strikes when Dee yells at her mother, claiming "'You just don't understand...' 'What don't I understand?' I wanted to know 'Your heritage'" (Walker 181). Their heritage is what Dee had abandoned and decided to now use to spice up her living room.
Sassy "Hazel Tells Laverne" how it is Analysis
Hazel Tells Laverne
Katharyn Howd Machan
Hazel is a cleaning lady who is telling Laverne about a pleasant surprise she encountered while cleaning a bathroom. She relives the fairy tale of the Princess and the Frog when a frog appears in the toilet bowl. The frog goes through the routine of kiss him on the nose and you become a princess. That's when Hazel "screams ya little green pervert an [she] hitsm with [her] mop" (Machan). This turns the fairy tale on its head, and actually is more believable. A talking frog who demands kisses is quite terrifying, and few people would actually be tempted by the promise of a princess. Another quality of the poem is her diction. The simple, poorly constructed sentences provide a comfortable setting for the conversation. The poem feels like Hazel is talking to me about her crazy day (and boy does Hazel have some hilarious stories). She concludes the story re-questioning herself as a princess, as if the frog was totally ridiculous for offering her princesship (which is now a word).
Katharyn Howd Machan
Hazel is a cleaning lady who is telling Laverne about a pleasant surprise she encountered while cleaning a bathroom. She relives the fairy tale of the Princess and the Frog when a frog appears in the toilet bowl. The frog goes through the routine of kiss him on the nose and you become a princess. That's when Hazel "screams ya little green pervert an [she] hitsm with [her] mop" (Machan). This turns the fairy tale on its head, and actually is more believable. A talking frog who demands kisses is quite terrifying, and few people would actually be tempted by the promise of a princess. Another quality of the poem is her diction. The simple, poorly constructed sentences provide a comfortable setting for the conversation. The poem feels like Hazel is talking to me about her crazy day (and boy does Hazel have some hilarious stories). She concludes the story re-questioning herself as a princess, as if the frog was totally ridiculous for offering her princesship (which is now a word).
Mr Z (not to be confused with Mr T) analysis
Mr Z
M. Carl Holman
Mr Z is a child of mixed race, presumably a mixture of white and black. He grew up in a time where blacks were thought to be inferior, and he tried desperately to escape that destiny. He studied, forsook his African-American culture, and made strides to become equals with whites. He had married a Jewish woman he also was displeased with her background, and together the ran away from themselves. They even avoided public dinners, because they feared the hosts may cater "to kosher accent or exoctic skin." Thier backgrounds did not define them, the way they had lived defined them. Mr Z especially seemed to rise above all others, seeming far superior to any white man. People acclaimed the fact Mr Z was so remarkable with the color of his skin, but he didn't want his color to have any effect on his prowess. Society simply couldn't see past race, and Mr Z died and was remembered dearly, but as a black man, not as a man. This is why I think he is called Mr Z, because his true self didn't matter to the world. All that they saw was his color, then they saw his achievements.
M. Carl Holman
Mr Z is a child of mixed race, presumably a mixture of white and black. He grew up in a time where blacks were thought to be inferior, and he tried desperately to escape that destiny. He studied, forsook his African-American culture, and made strides to become equals with whites. He had married a Jewish woman he also was displeased with her background, and together the ran away from themselves. They even avoided public dinners, because they feared the hosts may cater "to kosher accent or exoctic skin." Thier backgrounds did not define them, the way they had lived defined them. Mr Z especially seemed to rise above all others, seeming far superior to any white man. People acclaimed the fact Mr Z was so remarkable with the color of his skin, but he didn't want his color to have any effect on his prowess. Society simply couldn't see past race, and Mr Z died and was remembered dearly, but as a black man, not as a man. This is why I think he is called Mr Z, because his true self didn't matter to the world. All that they saw was his color, then they saw his achievements.
Dream Deferred analysis
Dream Deferred
Langston Hughes
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Perrine Poetry Reasoning.
I came into this reading thinking that poetry really has near infinite interpretations, but Perrine has somewhat changed my opinion. He states that there indeed can be multiple correct interpretations of a poem, but there is always one interpretation "relies on the fewest assumptions not grounded in the poem itself" (Paragraph 4) and is therefore the most economical. A correct analysis of a poem would provide a detail for every part of the poem, leaving no word undeciphered. The way he describes how his class interpreted the Dickinson poem much like how I did made me feel knowledgeable. However, he proves me to be incorrect and actually quite impressed by his own analysis. For me, daffodil triggered the image of flowers, and my interpretation completely revolved around that one nugget of information. Perrine points out that the interpretation could make sense, but assumptions must be made for it to be correct. That is why his conjecture of a sunset truly is the perfect analysis for the poem.
I do have one issue with this way of understanding poetry. That is that the interpretation may take ages to uncover. Unless someone spends most of their evening staring at sunsets, they wouldn't immediately think of one when reading the word purple or yellow. Nor would they jump to the conclusion of clouds when reading the word ships, or think of the sky when seeing the word wharf. The only way to completely and correctly understand a poem is to think of multiple scenarios of what the poem could be describing. Any preconceptions one might have going into a poem must be discarded. Without a trigger word to relate to sun, a sunset, dusk, etc., the reader may never arrive at the conclusion of a beautiful description of a sunset. Poetry also tries to trick the reader, making it even harder topass this class understand poetry, as illustrated by the pair of army poems. The reader gets the idea that both poems are related to war in some way, but the second poem is about stars. STARS?! How is any logical-thinking person supposed to unravel that mystery? Looking back, I understand that constellations could be the main focus of the poem, but that would not be my top five interpretations. Perrine basically states that poetry is hard, and you have to be an excellent analyzer to have a perfectly correct interpretation.
I do have one issue with this way of understanding poetry. That is that the interpretation may take ages to uncover. Unless someone spends most of their evening staring at sunsets, they wouldn't immediately think of one when reading the word purple or yellow. Nor would they jump to the conclusion of clouds when reading the word ships, or think of the sky when seeing the word wharf. The only way to completely and correctly understand a poem is to think of multiple scenarios of what the poem could be describing. Any preconceptions one might have going into a poem must be discarded. Without a trigger word to relate to sun, a sunset, dusk, etc., the reader may never arrive at the conclusion of a beautiful description of a sunset. Poetry also tries to trick the reader, making it even harder to
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Ch 9: That's....really sad
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
I was halfway into this chapter before I fully realized that Gatsby was dead, so maybe I'm not the best analyzer of this book. Nevertheless, the conclusion of The Great Gatsby is very sad. Nick is left to take care of all the loose strings that Gatsby left, which includes the funeral. Daisy left down, making Gatsby's death nearly pointless. Then Gatsby's father, who knew his son as Jimmy Gatz, arrives upon hearing of his death. Mr. Gatz was so proud of his son, and so saddened that he couldn't provide for him such a lifestyle. Nick starts contacting Gatsby's business partners for the funeral, and no one commits to going. Scumbag Wolfsheim even blows off the funeral, claiming "'When a man gets killed I never like to get mixed up in it in any way'" (Fitzgerald 171). The father continues to show pride in his son, showing that even as a child Jay was determined to be a successful business man. In the end it was Nick, Mr. Gatz, and some servants who attended the funeral. Nick saw Tom later in the year who reveals to be a massive jerk by telling Nick he squealed on Gatsby to Wilson...big surprise. To make things worse Nick and Jordan never got back together. This is truly the most depressed I have ever been while reading a book.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
I was halfway into this chapter before I fully realized that Gatsby was dead, so maybe I'm not the best analyzer of this book. Nevertheless, the conclusion of The Great Gatsby is very sad. Nick is left to take care of all the loose strings that Gatsby left, which includes the funeral. Daisy left down, making Gatsby's death nearly pointless. Then Gatsby's father, who knew his son as Jimmy Gatz, arrives upon hearing of his death. Mr. Gatz was so proud of his son, and so saddened that he couldn't provide for him such a lifestyle. Nick starts contacting Gatsby's business partners for the funeral, and no one commits to going. Scumbag Wolfsheim even blows off the funeral, claiming "'When a man gets killed I never like to get mixed up in it in any way'" (Fitzgerald 171). The father continues to show pride in his son, showing that even as a child Jay was determined to be a successful business man. In the end it was Nick, Mr. Gatz, and some servants who attended the funeral. Nick saw Tom later in the year who reveals to be a massive jerk by telling Nick he squealed on Gatsby to Wilson...big surprise. To make things worse Nick and Jordan never got back together. This is truly the most depressed I have ever been while reading a book.
Ch 8 part 2: Someone finally became relevant
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
As Nick travels past the crime scene, the focus shifts on over to Wilson. Reporters and relatives all flocked to his shack all because a woman was murdered. I'm not sure why everyone is still hanging around, because Wilson is an absolute bore of a man. The neighbor Michaelis does his best to keep Wilson's mind off of it, but Wilson is slowly slipping into madness. He is thinking methodically, seeking vengeance for his wife. Michaelis reveals that Wilson had nothing in his life, absolutely nothing besides his wife. The suspicion turns into pending disaster as Michaelis and Wilson talk about the accident, and Wilson suspects that "'he killed her...' 'Who did?' 'I have a way of finding out'" (Fitzgerald 158). He says things that that over and over, almost like he is predestined to murder his wife's killer. He promptly leaves Michaelis and goes to question about the yellow car. As Gatsby heads to the pool, Wilson figures out 'twas Gatsby's car that hit his wife. They meet at the pool and kill each other. It was so abrupt, that I'm not sure how it happened. Wilson had a gun, but yet He died too. I guess he could've killed himself, since he had very little left in this world.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
As Nick travels past the crime scene, the focus shifts on over to Wilson. Reporters and relatives all flocked to his shack all because a woman was murdered. I'm not sure why everyone is still hanging around, because Wilson is an absolute bore of a man. The neighbor Michaelis does his best to keep Wilson's mind off of it, but Wilson is slowly slipping into madness. He is thinking methodically, seeking vengeance for his wife. Michaelis reveals that Wilson had nothing in his life, absolutely nothing besides his wife. The suspicion turns into pending disaster as Michaelis and Wilson talk about the accident, and Wilson suspects that "'he killed her...' 'Who did?' 'I have a way of finding out'" (Fitzgerald 158). He says things that that over and over, almost like he is predestined to murder his wife's killer. He promptly leaves Michaelis and goes to question about the yellow car. As Gatsby heads to the pool, Wilson figures out 'twas Gatsby's car that hit his wife. They meet at the pool and kill each other. It was so abrupt, that I'm not sure how it happened. Wilson had a gun, but yet He died too. I guess he could've killed himself, since he had very little left in this world.
Ch 8 part 1: He's got 99 problems...
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Gatsby has spent the disaster night watching over Daisy and Tom, making sure should was alright and didn't do anything crazy. He also had hoped that maybe, just maybe she would flee Tom for good and be with Gatsby through thick and thin. Alas, nothing had happened, and Gatsby has somewhat become a darker character because of it. He begins to reveal to Nick the truth of his love with Daisy. He almost instantly fell in love with her, tried to stop himself from doing so too, but she was too irresistible. Being poor and unable to support Daisy with a lavish lifestyle, young Gatsby had "'hoped for a while that she'd throw me over, but she didn't, because she was in love with me too'" (Fitzgerald 150). He had to leave her for the war, and continue to miss her as he went off to Oxford. By the time he dropped out, it was too late. Daisy had found Tom, and Gatsby was crushed. Even after all the success that came with being a charismatic, handsome, decorated war veteran, he felt empty without the girl of his dreams, as many men do. Their love nearly ended then and there, and Gatsby lost his sense of purpose. All he could do was to build up his empire and maybe, one day, have another go at finding love. Nick does his best to console Gatsby by missing his train and relaxing by the pool with Gatsby, finally a giving action done by Nick.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Gatsby has spent the disaster night watching over Daisy and Tom, making sure should was alright and didn't do anything crazy. He also had hoped that maybe, just maybe she would flee Tom for good and be with Gatsby through thick and thin. Alas, nothing had happened, and Gatsby has somewhat become a darker character because of it. He begins to reveal to Nick the truth of his love with Daisy. He almost instantly fell in love with her, tried to stop himself from doing so too, but she was too irresistible. Being poor and unable to support Daisy with a lavish lifestyle, young Gatsby had "'hoped for a while that she'd throw me over, but she didn't, because she was in love with me too'" (Fitzgerald 150). He had to leave her for the war, and continue to miss her as he went off to Oxford. By the time he dropped out, it was too late. Daisy had found Tom, and Gatsby was crushed. Even after all the success that came with being a charismatic, handsome, decorated war veteran, he felt empty without the girl of his dreams, as many men do. Their love nearly ended then and there, and Gatsby lost his sense of purpose. All he could do was to build up his empire and maybe, one day, have another go at finding love. Nick does his best to console Gatsby by missing his train and relaxing by the pool with Gatsby, finally a giving action done by Nick.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Ch 7 part 3: Jesus didn't take the wheel.
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The commotion drastically settled from the last part when they left and Nick brought up his 30th birthday. The focus then jumps on over to Wilson and his neighbor Michaelis. They were having a chat about Wilson's soon-to-be departure to The West. Throughout the conversation, Wilson states that he suspects his wife is having an affair and slowly puts the pieces together assuming it was Michaelis as his wife's lover. For no obvious reason, Myrtle runs out of the house into the street where she was hit by a car, and the pandemonium re-ensues. Tom's car was one of the early cars to witness the aftermath, and he tried to help Wilson through the chaos. The cops show up, get the information, and all witnesses say that a yellow car hit her. A yellow car that was driving just ahead of Tom...that's Gatsby's. Tom realizes this and tells Wilson that the "'yellow car I was driving this afternoon wasn't mine--do you hear?'" (Fitzgerald 140). Though Tom didn't snitch on Gatsby, he did all in his power to prove he was at no fault. Nick gets back to his home and Gatsby knows of the events. Daisy was driving, but Gatsby was willing to fall on his sword to protect her. Gatsby is also confident that Tom and Daisy will never be together, which is what he always wanted. This book finally got interesting.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The commotion drastically settled from the last part when they left and Nick brought up his 30th birthday. The focus then jumps on over to Wilson and his neighbor Michaelis. They were having a chat about Wilson's soon-to-be departure to The West. Throughout the conversation, Wilson states that he suspects his wife is having an affair and slowly puts the pieces together assuming it was Michaelis as his wife's lover. For no obvious reason, Myrtle runs out of the house into the street where she was hit by a car, and the pandemonium re-ensues. Tom's car was one of the early cars to witness the aftermath, and he tried to help Wilson through the chaos. The cops show up, get the information, and all witnesses say that a yellow car hit her. A yellow car that was driving just ahead of Tom...that's Gatsby's. Tom realizes this and tells Wilson that the "'yellow car I was driving this afternoon wasn't mine--do you hear?'" (Fitzgerald 140). Though Tom didn't snitch on Gatsby, he did all in his power to prove he was at no fault. Nick gets back to his home and Gatsby knows of the events. Daisy was driving, but Gatsby was willing to fall on his sword to protect her. Gatsby is also confident that Tom and Daisy will never be together, which is what he always wanted. This book finally got interesting.
Ch 7 part 2: the roof, the roof, the roof is on Fi-ya!
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The heat is a constant reminder that the chaos is filling the atmosphere. Even as a someone who is just watching the events occur, Nick feels the heat/pressure as his "underwear kept climbing like a damp snake around my legs and intermittent beads of sweat raced cool across [his] back" (Fitzgerald 126). I simply had to include that quote, but he makes a good point. The pure disgusting feel of what Nick describes would be miserable to go through, and as a reader I was cringing through most of the section. Tom starts the craziness by revealing Gatsby didn't finish college, which Gatsby explains and frankly dodges a bullet. But Gatsby claims that Daisy loves him and always had, and never truly loved Tom. This is the driving force of the section, the absolute turmoil which ensues after this statement. Daisy was initially hesitant to admit her marriage was a lie, but she eventually gave in. Tom then reveals Gatsby's shady drug store business, and how he shouldn't be trusted, where I have to agree with Tommy boy again. Everyone is a mess and they decide to make their way back home.
Ch 7 part 1: Some people just want to watch the world burn
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
and Nick is one of them
Gatsby is fully invested into recapturing Daisy, and Tom is on to him. Tom is trying to figure out Gatsby so he can find a flaw in him that would make him undesirable to the world and especially Daisy. As they all converse everyone seems to be upset about the heat. This is slowly making everyone irritable, which seems to resemble the mounting tension of the group. They all decide on going into town, Tom, Nick, and Jordan would drive Gatsby's car and Gatsby would take Daisy in Tom's car. This is one of the examples in this section which brings forth confusion and chaos (don't worry, it gets better). During the car ride Jordan tries to explain how normal and safe Gatsby is, but it only makes Tom angrier. They stop for gas at Wilson's garage, where Tom nearly sells Gatsby's car right on the spot! Wilson also explains that he's planning on moving West with his wife, who is also Tom's mistress. Anger once again fills Tom, and confusion floods back into the scene when Myrtle Wilson comes out and assumes Jordan is Tom's wife. Nick, the watchful observer, illustrates the scene saying "there is no confusion like the confusion of a simple mind...Tom was feeling the hot whips of panic" (Fitzgerald 125). A house of cards is being built and is waiting for a clumsy hand or mighty wind to come and knock it down. disaster is on the horizon.
Ch 6: Ooooh, that makes sense.
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Jay Gatsby is actually James Gatz. He was a poor kid looking towards the lofty hope of big success, and Dan Cody was his one way ticket to such a dream. Dan Cody, for some reason, wanted to help Gatz, so he pulled strings to build him into a successful business man. His goals were some what psychotic for he imagined a whole new persona and did anything necessary to achieve it. His own desires would consume him as his "most grotesque and fantastic conceits haunted him in his bed at night" (Fitzgerald 99). Here is where Gatsby most terrifies me, it's almost as though he is a serial killer, but his bliss comes from wealth and fame. His mentor, Dan Cody, had a horrible time with alcohol which led to his death; there was a silver lining which led Gatsby away from liquor and always gave him a clear mind when most of his business partners had no mind. The focus shifts back to current time and Gatsby is hosting another party where Tom and Daisy are invited. Tom proves to be even more unlikable by snooping around to figure out the truth of Gatsby. Even though I hate Tom, he has a good point. Is Gatsby totally legit, is he a bootlegger, a drug dealer, or involved in some sort of mafia?
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Jay Gatsby is actually James Gatz. He was a poor kid looking towards the lofty hope of big success, and Dan Cody was his one way ticket to such a dream. Dan Cody, for some reason, wanted to help Gatz, so he pulled strings to build him into a successful business man. His goals were some what psychotic for he imagined a whole new persona and did anything necessary to achieve it. His own desires would consume him as his "most grotesque and fantastic conceits haunted him in his bed at night" (Fitzgerald 99). Here is where Gatsby most terrifies me, it's almost as though he is a serial killer, but his bliss comes from wealth and fame. His mentor, Dan Cody, had a horrible time with alcohol which led to his death; there was a silver lining which led Gatsby away from liquor and always gave him a clear mind when most of his business partners had no mind. The focus shifts back to current time and Gatsby is hosting another party where Tom and Daisy are invited. Tom proves to be even more unlikable by snooping around to figure out the truth of Gatsby. Even though I hate Tom, he has a good point. Is Gatsby totally legit, is he a bootlegger, a drug dealer, or involved in some sort of mafia?
Ch 5: Whole lotta love
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
More like Whole lotta awkward!
Gatsby has convinced Jordan who convinced Nick to convince Daisy to have tea with Gatsby. Right off the bat I know this is going to go well. i guess it's common for friends to set other friends up on dates, but when Gatsby goes through so much trouble when he could easily just send a message to Daisy to get her to come! So Daisy agrees to meet Gatsby and Nick for tea at nick's house; since Gatsby wants to impress Daisy, he sends a gardener to Nick's house to cut his lawn. I mention this because it struck he as strange for a man to cut grass in pouring rain, because mushy grass tends to look much worse than long grass. Nevertheless Daisy arrives and Gatsby is no where to be found. She greets Nick saying "'Are you in love with me,' she said low in my ear, 'or why did I have to come here alone?' (Fitzgerald 85). Daisy clearly dislikes her current husband/marriage and is willing to hit on anyone who thinks she's pretty. Nick is heavily third-wheeling it here, and being as weird as he already is makes the whole arrangement so very awkward. I can't explain this book without saying awkward 5,000 times.
Somethings actually important comes from this encounter, a man named Dan Cody. He was Gatsby's mentor and a very influential person in his life. I'm starting to think he was the reason for Gatsby's success, but only time will tell.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
More like Whole lotta awkward!
Gatsby has convinced Jordan who convinced Nick to convince Daisy to have tea with Gatsby. Right off the bat I know this is going to go well. i guess it's common for friends to set other friends up on dates, but when Gatsby goes through so much trouble when he could easily just send a message to Daisy to get her to come! So Daisy agrees to meet Gatsby and Nick for tea at nick's house; since Gatsby wants to impress Daisy, he sends a gardener to Nick's house to cut his lawn. I mention this because it struck he as strange for a man to cut grass in pouring rain, because mushy grass tends to look much worse than long grass. Nevertheless Daisy arrives and Gatsby is no where to be found. She greets Nick saying "'Are you in love with me,' she said low in my ear, 'or why did I have to come here alone?' (Fitzgerald 85). Daisy clearly dislikes her current husband/marriage and is willing to hit on anyone who thinks she's pretty. Nick is heavily third-wheeling it here, and being as weird as he already is makes the whole arrangement so very awkward. I can't explain this book without saying awkward 5,000 times.
Somethings actually important comes from this encounter, a man named Dan Cody. He was Gatsby's mentor and a very influential person in his life. I'm starting to think he was the reason for Gatsby's success, but only time will tell.
Chapter 4 part 2: Book-ception
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
As the lunch continues, Tom Buchanan shows up and the group has somewhat of an awkward exchange. This, for some odd reason, triggers a diary-like passage narrated by Jordan Baker. This serves as a more intimate look into Daisy & Co's life, since Jordan is a close friend to Daisy. It lets the reader learn about Daisy from a knowledgeable source, rather than the loafing Nick Carraway. Jordan reveals that 5 years ago Daisy had met Gatsby, and they somewhat fell in love. However, one thing led to another and they went their separate ways, a way that led Daisy to meet and marry Tom Buchanan. During the time before her wedding, Daisy is furious as well as miserable at the thought of marriage where "she began to cry--she cried and cried...and [Jordan had to] lock the door and get her into a cold bath" (Fitzgerald 76). But when the wedding day arrived, Daisy was all smiles and excited to be married. A normal reason for this would be pre-wedding nerves, which many people experience...but I think Daisy truly was against this, but saw no other option but to marry a wealthy man. This explanation leads the reader to start wishing Daisy and Gatsby had been together, but then their wouldn't be much of a driving plot now, would there? The focus switches back to Nick as the narrator, and he now has definitive feelings for Miss Baker. He thinks such sweet and beautiful things about her, but he says almost nothing. How can you screw up this much Nick?! I mean she's a girl, not the plague!! Anyway, I sense some serious problems on the Ocean of Love are ahead for this crew of characters.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
As the lunch continues, Tom Buchanan shows up and the group has somewhat of an awkward exchange. This, for some odd reason, triggers a diary-like passage narrated by Jordan Baker. This serves as a more intimate look into Daisy & Co's life, since Jordan is a close friend to Daisy. It lets the reader learn about Daisy from a knowledgeable source, rather than the loafing Nick Carraway. Jordan reveals that 5 years ago Daisy had met Gatsby, and they somewhat fell in love. However, one thing led to another and they went their separate ways, a way that led Daisy to meet and marry Tom Buchanan. During the time before her wedding, Daisy is furious as well as miserable at the thought of marriage where "she began to cry--she cried and cried...and [Jordan had to] lock the door and get her into a cold bath" (Fitzgerald 76). But when the wedding day arrived, Daisy was all smiles and excited to be married. A normal reason for this would be pre-wedding nerves, which many people experience...but I think Daisy truly was against this, but saw no other option but to marry a wealthy man. This explanation leads the reader to start wishing Daisy and Gatsby had been together, but then their wouldn't be much of a driving plot now, would there? The focus switches back to Nick as the narrator, and he now has definitive feelings for Miss Baker. He thinks such sweet and beautiful things about her, but he says almost nothing. How can you screw up this much Nick?! I mean she's a girl, not the plague!! Anyway, I sense some serious problems on the Ocean of Love are ahead for this crew of characters.
Ch 4 part 1: Who is this man they call Gatsby?!
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
It's summer in West Egg and people are still partying at Gatsby's. Nick still remains the only person who goes to the parties to see Gatsby rather than to party. Nick tries to talk to Gatsby in order to understand his past, and this is the first instance in which Gatsby shares some of his secrets. Gatsby tells of his education, his family, his military service, and where he's from; from this, Nick collects that Gatsby is somewhat ashamed of his past. Nick isn't sure why, but he knows that Gatsby is uneasy for some reason. As the two go into town, a police officer pulls them over, then promptly lets them go upon seeing Mr. Gatsby, proving that Gatsby is either beloved or feared by many in New York. The meeting on Meyer Wolfsheim makes me think Gatsby is feared, for Wolfsheim is an assumed business partner of Gatsby's, and he is a disgusting man. He oozes shadiness and deceit, and he makes the reader wonder how Gatsby really is so wealthy. Wolfsheim was "the man who fixed the World Series back in 1919" (Fitzgerald 73), yet somehow got off clean. The man isn't to be trusted, and can only lead to bad things in Gatsby's future; and I do hope the best for Gatsby, because he still seems like he has an important purpose.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
It's summer in West Egg and people are still partying at Gatsby's. Nick still remains the only person who goes to the parties to see Gatsby rather than to party. Nick tries to talk to Gatsby in order to understand his past, and this is the first instance in which Gatsby shares some of his secrets. Gatsby tells of his education, his family, his military service, and where he's from; from this, Nick collects that Gatsby is somewhat ashamed of his past. Nick isn't sure why, but he knows that Gatsby is uneasy for some reason. As the two go into town, a police officer pulls them over, then promptly lets them go upon seeing Mr. Gatsby, proving that Gatsby is either beloved or feared by many in New York. The meeting on Meyer Wolfsheim makes me think Gatsby is feared, for Wolfsheim is an assumed business partner of Gatsby's, and he is a disgusting man. He oozes shadiness and deceit, and he makes the reader wonder how Gatsby really is so wealthy. Wolfsheim was "the man who fixed the World Series back in 1919" (Fitzgerald 73), yet somehow got off clean. The man isn't to be trusted, and can only lead to bad things in Gatsby's future; and I do hope the best for Gatsby, because he still seems like he has an important purpose.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Ch 3 part 2: I want to be his best friend.
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
After an awkward introduction, Nick meets Gatsby! He seems like an upstanding individual, and actually reminds me of Christopher Nolan's Bruce Wayne (the Dark Knight Rises was a fantastic movie). They have a short conversation, but then Gatsby leaves to handle business over the phone. nick wants to learn more about him, but he can only be described as Gatsby without rumors getting swirled around his name. Something strange occurs when Gatsby's butler requests Miss Baker to go see Gatsby. At first thought, I assumed Gatsby was romantically interested in her, but we'll find out the true meaning of this later in the book. Nick is left alone with his thoughts, which is never good for the reader. The houseguests are getting progressively drunker and rowdier, and Nick does nothing but watch making this a very boring section of nothingness. As everyone is leaving, Gatsby says goodbye to Nick in an extremely awkward fashion when nick says "'Good night.' 'Good night...good night, old sport...Good night" (Fitzgerald 53). Why would anyone need to say that many "good nights"?! As the departures begin, some drunk guy gets into a wreck, knocking the wheel completely off of his car. At first i didn't think much of it, but then I began to suspect bad luck occurs with Gatsby, as though he is an unlucky charm. The chapter ends with Nick developing feelings for Jordan Baker, which probably won't go anywhere because Nick has no spine. I'm not a huge fan of Nick.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
After an awkward introduction, Nick meets Gatsby! He seems like an upstanding individual, and actually reminds me of Christopher Nolan's Bruce Wayne (the Dark Knight Rises was a fantastic movie). They have a short conversation, but then Gatsby leaves to handle business over the phone. nick wants to learn more about him, but he can only be described as Gatsby without rumors getting swirled around his name. Something strange occurs when Gatsby's butler requests Miss Baker to go see Gatsby. At first thought, I assumed Gatsby was romantically interested in her, but we'll find out the true meaning of this later in the book. Nick is left alone with his thoughts, which is never good for the reader. The houseguests are getting progressively drunker and rowdier, and Nick does nothing but watch making this a very boring section of nothingness. As everyone is leaving, Gatsby says goodbye to Nick in an extremely awkward fashion when nick says "'Good night.' 'Good night...good night, old sport...Good night" (Fitzgerald 53). Why would anyone need to say that many "good nights"?! As the departures begin, some drunk guy gets into a wreck, knocking the wheel completely off of his car. At first i didn't think much of it, but then I began to suspect bad luck occurs with Gatsby, as though he is an unlucky charm. The chapter ends with Nick developing feelings for Jordan Baker, which probably won't go anywhere because Nick has no spine. I'm not a huge fan of Nick.
Ch 3 part 1: ain't no party like a Gatsby party
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The reader gets a sense of hope now that they are plunged into one of Gatsby's amazing parties. However, the host seems to be no where to be found. Gatsby throws these parties for seemingly no reason, just to make random people happy. Women flock to these events just to have a good time. Actresses, businessmen, families, everyone goes to Gatsby's house just for the sake of a party. Nick notes that "people were not invited--they went there" (Fitzgerald 41). Nick seemingly was the only one who received an invite, most likely because Gatsby wanted to meet his neighbor. Nick spots Jordan Baker and decides to spend the evening along her side. As he talks with her and other guests, he finds out many rumors about Gatsby. None of them are connected in any way, so I doubt they are true; but if rumors exist about this Jay Gatsby then he can't be 100% clean and spiffy. As they wander through the house, they enter the library and find Mr. Owl Eyes (as he is so affectionately called).
couldn't stop thinking he looked like this
Owl eyes reveals Gatsby's immense wealth by showing of all the fancy books that are quite rare and amazing to him, but seemingly pointless to all non-historians. Furthermore the massive library adds mystery around Gatsby, as to why he has so many books and who he is trying to impress. Nonetheless, I'm eager to meet Gatsby and I hope he is as spectacular as everyone says.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The reader gets a sense of hope now that they are plunged into one of Gatsby's amazing parties. However, the host seems to be no where to be found. Gatsby throws these parties for seemingly no reason, just to make random people happy. Women flock to these events just to have a good time. Actresses, businessmen, families, everyone goes to Gatsby's house just for the sake of a party. Nick notes that "people were not invited--they went there" (Fitzgerald 41). Nick seemingly was the only one who received an invite, most likely because Gatsby wanted to meet his neighbor. Nick spots Jordan Baker and decides to spend the evening along her side. As he talks with her and other guests, he finds out many rumors about Gatsby. None of them are connected in any way, so I doubt they are true; but if rumors exist about this Jay Gatsby then he can't be 100% clean and spiffy. As they wander through the house, they enter the library and find Mr. Owl Eyes (as he is so affectionately called).
couldn't stop thinking he looked like thisOwl eyes reveals Gatsby's immense wealth by showing of all the fancy books that are quite rare and amazing to him, but seemingly pointless to all non-historians. Furthermore the massive library adds mystery around Gatsby, as to why he has so many books and who he is trying to impress. Nonetheless, I'm eager to meet Gatsby and I hope he is as spectacular as everyone says.
Ch 2: I don't even
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
This picture! This is an exact representation of me the whole time reading this section.
For starters, Tom forces Nick to go see his mistress with him. On the way there, Nick sees "the gray land and the spasms of bleak dust...[and] the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg [which] are blue and gigantic" (Fitzgerald 23). I was so confused reading this, thinking Nick was dreaming or something. But no! It turns out Eckleburg is just a billboard ad, and the scenery is just a boring side road off of the highway. Then Tom goes to see his girl Myrtle, who is married to a man named Wilson. Tom has some car business with Wilson, but is making Wilson struggle for what he wants, then Tom practically steals Mrs. Wilson right from under Mr. Wilson's nose! Tom is literally the worst person I have ever heard of and I despise him. the mistress is spoiled rotten too, begging Tom for a puppy as they pass a man selling some. A puppy?! Why would you want a puppy?!?! Myrtle has the mind and attitude of a six year old princess. They go back to the apartment and I am reminded that Nick is still with them. WHY?!?! Nick is just as confused as me, and he shares that "[he] has been drunk just twice in [his] life, and the second time was [that] afternoon" (Fitzgerald 29). Then the group starts a party which seems to have no importance.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
This picture! This is an exact representation of me the whole time reading this section.
For starters, Tom forces Nick to go see his mistress with him. On the way there, Nick sees "the gray land and the spasms of bleak dust...[and] the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg [which] are blue and gigantic" (Fitzgerald 23). I was so confused reading this, thinking Nick was dreaming or something. But no! It turns out Eckleburg is just a billboard ad, and the scenery is just a boring side road off of the highway. Then Tom goes to see his girl Myrtle, who is married to a man named Wilson. Tom has some car business with Wilson, but is making Wilson struggle for what he wants, then Tom practically steals Mrs. Wilson right from under Mr. Wilson's nose! Tom is literally the worst person I have ever heard of and I despise him. the mistress is spoiled rotten too, begging Tom for a puppy as they pass a man selling some. A puppy?! Why would you want a puppy?!?! Myrtle has the mind and attitude of a six year old princess. They go back to the apartment and I am reminded that Nick is still with them. WHY?!?! Nick is just as confused as me, and he shares that "[he] has been drunk just twice in [his] life, and the second time was [that] afternoon" (Fitzgerald 29). Then the group starts a party which seems to have no importance.
Ch 1 part 2: It started with a whisper
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The second part of Ch 1 is much more interesting for we learn about Tom and Daisy's disastrous marriage. For one, Daisy is a massive flirt, she hits on Nick right in front of Tom (also Nick and Daisy are related...). She also enjoys pushing Tom's buttons, which Tom detests. This may be the reason for Tom's secret mistress, which most of West Egg, but not Daisy, seems to know about. The reader is also introduced (yay, more descriptions) to Jordan Baker, a somewhat careless girl who is a professional golfer. It's hard to tell with Nick, since he seemingly has no emotions, but I think he is taking a liking to Jordan, but we shall see. Daisy and Tom ask Nick about his engagement, which took Nick by surprise. What had happened was the Nick had a female friend, but he was too poor to marry. However, gossip morphed it into a failed engagement. This section foreshadows the power of Gossip in New York, and demonstrates how it will be a main driving force throughout the novel. The chapter ends with Nick recounting the evening. It turns out the man is quite observant, already figuring out the doomed marriage of Tom and Daisy. He knew they had a child, but thought "that the thing for Daisy to do was to rush out of the house, child in arms--but apparently there were no such intentions in her head" (Fitzgerald 20). Once home, Nick gets he first, ominous glimpse of Gatsby; but that's all he could get, a momentary glimpse.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
The second part of Ch 1 is much more interesting for we learn about Tom and Daisy's disastrous marriage. For one, Daisy is a massive flirt, she hits on Nick right in front of Tom (also Nick and Daisy are related...). She also enjoys pushing Tom's buttons, which Tom detests. This may be the reason for Tom's secret mistress, which most of West Egg, but not Daisy, seems to know about. The reader is also introduced (yay, more descriptions) to Jordan Baker, a somewhat careless girl who is a professional golfer. It's hard to tell with Nick, since he seemingly has no emotions, but I think he is taking a liking to Jordan, but we shall see. Daisy and Tom ask Nick about his engagement, which took Nick by surprise. What had happened was the Nick had a female friend, but he was too poor to marry. However, gossip morphed it into a failed engagement. This section foreshadows the power of Gossip in New York, and demonstrates how it will be a main driving force throughout the novel. The chapter ends with Nick recounting the evening. It turns out the man is quite observant, already figuring out the doomed marriage of Tom and Daisy. He knew they had a child, but thought "that the thing for Daisy to do was to rush out of the house, child in arms--but apparently there were no such intentions in her head" (Fitzgerald 20). Once home, Nick gets he first, ominous glimpse of Gatsby; but that's all he could get, a momentary glimpse.
The Great Gastby, Ch 1 part 1: Cast and Crew
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Chapter one is a whole smörgåsbord of character descriptions, and I don't like it! The author is a young man named Nick Carraway, and he has come to New York for business and a successful life. He lives next to a man named Gatsby, who he hasn't met yet, but has heard elaborate rumors about him. They live on West Egg, which is the less proper, famous island compared to East Egg. Nick takes a journey to East Egg one day to visit the only person he seems to know, his "second cousin once removed" Daisy. We are then introduced to Daisy's husband, Tom Buchanan. We quickly notice that Tom is a very hate-able character. For one he is a burly lumbering man who thinks he know more than he does. Also, the things that he is passionate about includes false science and racism. His one strong suit is that he's a decent conversationalist, because Nick is simply horrible at it. Every chat Nick has involves one or two word questions and responses. At one point, Tom wants to learn some more about Nick, and the conversation follows like "'What do you do Nick?' 'I'm a bond man.' 'Who with?' [Nick] told him" (Fitzgerald 10). How is a reader supposed to enjoy a book when the main character/narrator can't get a decent conversation going?!
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Chapter one is a whole smörgåsbord of character descriptions, and I don't like it! The author is a young man named Nick Carraway, and he has come to New York for business and a successful life. He lives next to a man named Gatsby, who he hasn't met yet, but has heard elaborate rumors about him. They live on West Egg, which is the less proper, famous island compared to East Egg. Nick takes a journey to East Egg one day to visit the only person he seems to know, his "second cousin once removed" Daisy. We are then introduced to Daisy's husband, Tom Buchanan. We quickly notice that Tom is a very hate-able character. For one he is a burly lumbering man who thinks he know more than he does. Also, the things that he is passionate about includes false science and racism. His one strong suit is that he's a decent conversationalist, because Nick is simply horrible at it. Every chat Nick has involves one or two word questions and responses. At one point, Tom wants to learn some more about Nick, and the conversation follows like "'What do you do Nick?' 'I'm a bond man.' 'Who with?' [Nick] told him" (Fitzgerald 10). How is a reader supposed to enjoy a book when the main character/narrator can't get a decent conversation going?!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Ch 13&14: Wait...that's it?
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
I would like to preface this blog by saying The House of Mirth is the first book I've read cover to cover during my highschool career.
thank you Dwight (and thank you Chris Brown)
Lily knows her sleeping medication is dangerous, so she attempts to avoid it by sleeping away from home in a park. A woman by the name of Nettie Struther sees her and the park and wants to help her. She takes Lily back to her inviting home. This is the last glimmer of light for Lily, because the generosity of Mrs Struther was a delighted surprise for Miss Bart. She went home and received the inheritance from Mrs Peniston, she then began repaying her debt to Trenor. With her money all gone, all she wants now is sleep, but she needs the medication to obtain it. She wants to exceed the normal dosage, but even she questions herself, thinking could she "bear it--yes, she could bear it; but what strength would be left her the next day?" (Wharton 262). Miss Lily Bart had fallen from her graces, and overdosed on the medication and died in her sleep. Selden meant to go and visit Lily, but was greeted by Gerty who told him of the grave news. The book ends in two different senses. First of, Selden is confused by the unfinished check to Trenor, deepening the mystery surround Lily Bart. But, the book also ends with the two together, the way they always were meant to be. Money is a powerful drug, a drug that led Lily to overdose on a completely different drug.
Edith Wharton
I would like to preface this blog by saying The House of Mirth is the first book I've read cover to cover during my highschool career.
thank you Dwight (and thank you Chris Brown)Lily knows her sleeping medication is dangerous, so she attempts to avoid it by sleeping away from home in a park. A woman by the name of Nettie Struther sees her and the park and wants to help her. She takes Lily back to her inviting home. This is the last glimmer of light for Lily, because the generosity of Mrs Struther was a delighted surprise for Miss Bart. She went home and received the inheritance from Mrs Peniston, she then began repaying her debt to Trenor. With her money all gone, all she wants now is sleep, but she needs the medication to obtain it. She wants to exceed the normal dosage, but even she questions herself, thinking could she "bear it--yes, she could bear it; but what strength would be left her the next day?" (Wharton 262). Miss Lily Bart had fallen from her graces, and overdosed on the medication and died in her sleep. Selden meant to go and visit Lily, but was greeted by Gerty who told him of the grave news. The book ends in two different senses. First of, Selden is confused by the unfinished check to Trenor, deepening the mystery surround Lily Bart. But, the book also ends with the two together, the way they always were meant to be. Money is a powerful drug, a drug that led Lily to overdose on a completely different drug.
Ch 11&12: The Storm
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
I was right, last section really was the calm before the storm. Allow me to elaborate: her sleeping medication has made most aspects of her life suffer. She got fired from her hat job, she meets people like Rosedale and Selden and is a total emotional wreck, and she is in a mental daze nearly all her waking hours. She goes to Selden in hope of something, anything really, hoping that he can help her through her emotions. The most shocking and saddening events occur near the end of this section. Lily empties all of her emotions onto Selden, including her romantic interests in him. They proclaim that they love eachother, but the "new Lily" can't be with Selden, so she wants "old Lily" to be with him. This suggests that Lily will leave and never come back, that she is running away from her life. I'm depressed knowing that Selden and Lily aren't together, but happy that they were always meant to be, like a forbidden love of sorts. Before the section ends, Lily "went up to him and laid her hands on his shoulders. 'Goodbye,' she said, amd as he bent over she touched his forehead with her lips" (Wharton 252). Lily Bart may be gone for good...
Edith Wharton
I was right, last section really was the calm before the storm. Allow me to elaborate: her sleeping medication has made most aspects of her life suffer. She got fired from her hat job, she meets people like Rosedale and Selden and is a total emotional wreck, and she is in a mental daze nearly all her waking hours. She goes to Selden in hope of something, anything really, hoping that he can help her through her emotions. The most shocking and saddening events occur near the end of this section. Lily empties all of her emotions onto Selden, including her romantic interests in him. They proclaim that they love eachother, but the "new Lily" can't be with Selden, so she wants "old Lily" to be with him. This suggests that Lily will leave and never come back, that she is running away from her life. I'm depressed knowing that Selden and Lily aren't together, but happy that they were always meant to be, like a forbidden love of sorts. Before the section ends, Lily "went up to him and laid her hands on his shoulders. 'Goodbye,' she said, amd as he bent over she touched his forehead with her lips" (Wharton 252). Lily Bart may be gone for good...
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Ch 9&10: Everybody's workin' for the weekend
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
Lily is now a working-class girl, which is nearly the opposite of what she always intended to be. To her, her current situation is practically poverty, but she deals with it as to be independent, fearing another situation to the Gus Trenor fiasco. Selden realizes that Lily will never be happy in her current working conditions, but Lily is dependent on the money and wants to stay working for Mrs Hatch. Selden's visit does re-spark their feelings somewhat, which gives me hope of their relationship. As of now they're just friends, but Lily truly thinks over Selden's advice and eventually leaves Mrs Hatch and goes back to Gerty's. Lily then picks up an even shabbier job, a hat maker. The conditions are poor and the other workers gossip about her, saying that Lily had fallen from the upper class and now is a regular street urchin. Her life kept her up at night, having nightmares of what she had become. She purchased sleep medication, so that she could easily escape reality and drift into slumber. The medication is clearly dangerous since the book references the medicine as being dangerous in large doses. However, Lily believed that "the only hoe of renewal lay in the little bottle at her bed-side" (Wharton 241). I truly fear that this is the calm before the storm, good luck Miss Lily Bart.
Edith Wharton
Lily is now a working-class girl, which is nearly the opposite of what she always intended to be. To her, her current situation is practically poverty, but she deals with it as to be independent, fearing another situation to the Gus Trenor fiasco. Selden realizes that Lily will never be happy in her current working conditions, but Lily is dependent on the money and wants to stay working for Mrs Hatch. Selden's visit does re-spark their feelings somewhat, which gives me hope of their relationship. As of now they're just friends, but Lily truly thinks over Selden's advice and eventually leaves Mrs Hatch and goes back to Gerty's. Lily then picks up an even shabbier job, a hat maker. The conditions are poor and the other workers gossip about her, saying that Lily had fallen from the upper class and now is a regular street urchin. Her life kept her up at night, having nightmares of what she had become. She purchased sleep medication, so that she could easily escape reality and drift into slumber. The medication is clearly dangerous since the book references the medicine as being dangerous in large doses. However, Lily believed that "the only hoe of renewal lay in the little bottle at her bed-side" (Wharton 241). I truly fear that this is the calm before the storm, good luck Miss Lily Bart.
Ch 7&8: Don't bring me doooooown.
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo0RpBGHjwA for those of you who don't understand the title
So Lily has decided on this Rosedale marriage thing, oh boy. But wait, what's this? Rosedale said no? Wait what?! Why yes, chubby old Rosedale refuses to marry Lily based on her recent downfall on the social ladder. But don't worry, Rosedale is still creepy as ever when he admits he still wants to get it on (bow chicka ew, EW, NO...NO!) with Lily. Lily has officially hit rock bottom, and Bertha Dorset keeps pushing her down. Bertha's wealth and social prowess is more than enough to squander any of Lily's attempt at recapturing her former glory. Lily begins to worry incessantly, but luckily Gerty is there by her side to work through her stress. While together, gerty noticed that, when they spoke, Lily's "voice had a dangerous edge, and gerty noticed that her hand shook as she held it out to receive the second cup" (Wharton 215). Lily Bart's worries were centered around poverty, and the worrying led to stress and wrinkles, which led to more worrying, which led to sleepless nights, which produced more impairments to her looks. The cycle was vicious and Lily's few friends were trying to save her. Lily ends up getting a secretary job under a single woman by the name of Mrs Hatch. This is the first job Lily has had throughout the entire book, and I sense this is the beginning of the end.
Edith Wharton
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo0RpBGHjwA for those of you who don't understand the title
So Lily has decided on this Rosedale marriage thing, oh boy. But wait, what's this? Rosedale said no? Wait what?! Why yes, chubby old Rosedale refuses to marry Lily based on her recent downfall on the social ladder. But don't worry, Rosedale is still creepy as ever when he admits he still wants to get it on (bow chicka ew, EW, NO...NO!) with Lily. Lily has officially hit rock bottom, and Bertha Dorset keeps pushing her down. Bertha's wealth and social prowess is more than enough to squander any of Lily's attempt at recapturing her former glory. Lily begins to worry incessantly, but luckily Gerty is there by her side to work through her stress. While together, gerty noticed that, when they spoke, Lily's "voice had a dangerous edge, and gerty noticed that her hand shook as she held it out to receive the second cup" (Wharton 215). Lily Bart's worries were centered around poverty, and the worrying led to stress and wrinkles, which led to more worrying, which led to sleepless nights, which produced more impairments to her looks. The cycle was vicious and Lily's few friends were trying to save her. Lily ends up getting a secretary job under a single woman by the name of Mrs Hatch. This is the first job Lily has had throughout the entire book, and I sense this is the beginning of the end.
Ch 5&6: Rumor has it...
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
The rumors started by Bertha Dorset had successful ruined Lily's reputation on the cruise, but the slander had also spread across the pond into America. her usual acquaintances, the Trenors, Rosedale, Fisher, all treat her with somewhat of a cold shoulder. Lily is slowly losing everyone she once manipulated for power, oh how the tables have turned. She thinks to herself if it was possible "that she was living alone like this because there was no one else for her to go to..." (Wharton 200). In an attempt to recollect herself, Lily attends a party at the Gormers' which leads to some social stability. Time passes and Lily Bart's Life is similar to that at the beginning of the book thanks to the popularity of the Gormers. George Dorset comes by to announce his love for Lily, but she refuses because she, and here's the worst part, has decided to marry Rosedale. She isn't totally confident in her decision, but the fact that the fat blob Rosedale may marry Lily angers me. I'm still hoping for Selden to return to Lily's side, by that seems like a hopeless dream.
Edith Wharton
The rumors started by Bertha Dorset had successful ruined Lily's reputation on the cruise, but the slander had also spread across the pond into America. her usual acquaintances, the Trenors, Rosedale, Fisher, all treat her with somewhat of a cold shoulder. Lily is slowly losing everyone she once manipulated for power, oh how the tables have turned. She thinks to herself if it was possible "that she was living alone like this because there was no one else for her to go to..." (Wharton 200). In an attempt to recollect herself, Lily attends a party at the Gormers' which leads to some social stability. Time passes and Lily Bart's Life is similar to that at the beginning of the book thanks to the popularity of the Gormers. George Dorset comes by to announce his love for Lily, but she refuses because she, and here's the worst part, has decided to marry Rosedale. She isn't totally confident in her decision, but the fact that the fat blob Rosedale may marry Lily angers me. I'm still hoping for Selden to return to Lily's side, by that seems like a hopeless dream.
Ch 3&4: I feel like I'm in the twilight zone
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
And no, there aren't any vampires, werewolves, or horrible actresses, just impossible cases of misfortune. Lily begins this section as the last one ended, on a cruise ship with elegant nobility and is enjoyed by most everyone. Bertha Dorset, however, has it out to get rid of Lily. Surprisingly, Bertha takes care of her Lily Bart situation quite easily by publicly announcing that Miss Bart won't be staying on the cruise any longer and will be getting off at the next stop, and Lily just takes it! Personally, I think Lily could have easily fought to keep herself on that cruise, but maybe she just didn't want any commotion. Lily quickly realizes she has no where to go and very little money for anything. Selden swoops in to rescue her, but her does a mediocre job at helping her. he negotiates for her to stay at Jack Stepney's place for the night, and she must leave in the morning. The sense of loneliness hits Lily that night when "he (Selden) left her outside, in the darkness of the raised hood..." (Wharton 178). Lily is feels further exiled when she receives a mere $10,000 (in order to repay her debts) from her aunt Mrs. Peniston when she died abruptly. Grace Stepney gets most of the estate under Mrs Peniston's name, and Lily is basically left stranded once again. She realizes that all she ha left is her friend Gerty Farish.
Edith Wharton
And no, there aren't any vampires, werewolves, or horrible actresses, just impossible cases of misfortune. Lily begins this section as the last one ended, on a cruise ship with elegant nobility and is enjoyed by most everyone. Bertha Dorset, however, has it out to get rid of Lily. Surprisingly, Bertha takes care of her Lily Bart situation quite easily by publicly announcing that Miss Bart won't be staying on the cruise any longer and will be getting off at the next stop, and Lily just takes it! Personally, I think Lily could have easily fought to keep herself on that cruise, but maybe she just didn't want any commotion. Lily quickly realizes she has no where to go and very little money for anything. Selden swoops in to rescue her, but her does a mediocre job at helping her. he negotiates for her to stay at Jack Stepney's place for the night, and she must leave in the morning. The sense of loneliness hits Lily that night when "he (Selden) left her outside, in the darkness of the raised hood..." (Wharton 178). Lily is feels further exiled when she receives a mere $10,000 (in order to repay her debts) from her aunt Mrs. Peniston when she died abruptly. Grace Stepney gets most of the estate under Mrs Peniston's name, and Lily is basically left stranded once again. She realizes that all she ha left is her friend Gerty Farish.
Book 2 Ch 1&2: Everybody look at her cuz she's sailin' on a boat
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
Edith Wharton
Lily Bart goes International! She begins Book 2 on vacation, more specifically on a European cruise. Lily does her general social habits, flirting with boys, getting on the good side of the wealthy, and impressing the powerful members in the room. Those members include Lady Skiddaw, the Princess of Macedonia, and Lord Hubert. Slowly, a whole lot of drama unfolds on the cruise. Bertha Dorset, a now friend of Lily's, brought Lily on the cruise so that Lily would flirt with and distract Mr George Dorset. Bertha wanted her husband distracted so that she could have an affair with Ned Silverton. This plan starts to turn sour because George genuinely is liking Lily and Bertha is getting jealous of Lily's prominence on the ship. So Bertha does what any logical person would, she tries to ruin her own marriage by starting rumors of Lily having an affair with Mr Dorset. The rumors spread quickly, but rumors of Ned and Bertha also get out, which happen to be solid facts. The Dorset's marriage is practically over, but Bertha is still angry at Lily. She goes to Lily and threatens her, saying she has gone too far and all this is Lily's fault. It was after the exchange that "a chill of fear passed over Miss Bart: a sense of remembered treachery that was like a gleam of a knife" (Wharton 168).
Monday, July 9, 2012
Ch 14&15: From bad to worse.
The House of Mirth
Edith Wharton
Lily and Gerty are somewhat friends at this point, which benefits the both of them. However, they both want the same man, Selden. Gerty wants Selden and Selden wants Lily, but Lily refused Selden from marrying her (if Lily would only want Gerty we would have a love triangle, bow chicka bow wow). Problem one: Selden and Lily aren't together. Problem two: Gus Trenor still exists. The main problem with Trenor is that he is getting to Selden too. He tries to creepily meet with Selden but Selden ignores his request, noticing "the dark flush on Trenor's face, the unpleasant moisture of his intensely white forehead, the way his jeweled rings were wedged in the creases of his fat red fingers" (Wharton, 125). How can anyone like Trenor at this point, he sounds like a fat gremlin! Lily also has a giant problem number three: her debts. Moreover, telling Mrs Penniston of her debts. She had been warned of Lily's money problems earlier, but ignored them. When she found out the rumors to be true, she was furious at Lily and refused to help her with her situation. It's definitely an uphill climb from here for Ms Lily Bart.
Edith Wharton
Lily and Gerty are somewhat friends at this point, which benefits the both of them. However, they both want the same man, Selden. Gerty wants Selden and Selden wants Lily, but Lily refused Selden from marrying her (if Lily would only want Gerty we would have a love triangle, bow chicka bow wow). Problem one: Selden and Lily aren't together. Problem two: Gus Trenor still exists. The main problem with Trenor is that he is getting to Selden too. He tries to creepily meet with Selden but Selden ignores his request, noticing "the dark flush on Trenor's face, the unpleasant moisture of his intensely white forehead, the way his jeweled rings were wedged in the creases of his fat red fingers" (Wharton, 125). How can anyone like Trenor at this point, he sounds like a fat gremlin! Lily also has a giant problem number three: her debts. Moreover, telling Mrs Penniston of her debts. She had been warned of Lily's money problems earlier, but ignored them. When she found out the rumors to be true, she was furious at Lily and refused to help her with her situation. It's definitely an uphill climb from here for Ms Lily Bart.
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