Melissa Long 05-07-07
Part 1:
I love this movie!! Not only because Johnny Depp is one of the lead characters, but also because the way the movie is constructed is creative and humorous. I think it is funny how the characters are searching of the “American Dream” and as a major part of their journey, decide to enlist the help of many illicit drugs. I interpret the purpose of their journey as the freedom to adventure toward fulfilling one’s dreams in any way one desires (in this sense it was with drugs).
Part 2:
The quote, “He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man” seems to be a perfect motto for the movie Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. The characters venture on their way to Las Vegas, and bring with them a giant stash of illegal drugs. Regardless of the fact that they were taking drugs before they went on the trip, the use of drugs while on the trip is a recurrent event. Both of the characters travel into Las Vegas with a different viewpoint than they would have if they had gone in sober.
The quote, “He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man" first brings up the idea of being a beast. Being a beast is associated with not being civilized, as is being a man, or human. By taking drugs, both of the leading characters succeeded in making themselves into uncivilized animals, who were as unaware of themselves as any wild beast. However, this unconsciousness and unawareness was such that it allowed them to forget their pains and the pain and anxiety that come along with being human. Their drug habits were a way to escape reality and the pain they encountered in life.
The answer to the question of whether it relieved their pain is most likely the same for anyone who is addicted to or chooses to abuse drugs: No. Drugs for these characters were a temporary escape; a way to get away from their reality for a temporary portion of time. The need to continually renew their “high” (e.g.- with the ether the night they got into Las Vegas and the constant cocaine use by Depp) is proof of their addiction and attempts to escape their surroundings. Their pain was not relieved by the use of drugs or by escaping from their humanity into a world of uncivilized dissociation.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
The Importance of Being Earnest
Melissa Long 04/18/07
Part 1:
I personally enjoy Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest much more than I enjoyed Taming of the Shrew because it is much easier to read. I find that when the plot is confounded with too many characters and too much going on (for example, exchanging identities as in Taming), it is much harder to follow and less enjoyable. The Importance of Being Earnest has just the right number of characters and is more modern in writing style so it is easier to comprehend. I found it to be a shame that the plot in Taming of the Shrew was interesting, but because the style was confusing I found it less enjoyable. The humor in The Importance of Being Earnest is much more vivid because I did not have to worry about what was going on, who was who, and what the characters were trying to say.
Part 2:
It was completely apparent in The Importance of Being Earnest that the characters’ senses of humor were very similar. They tended to use wit and off-the-wall comments to amuse the audience. It may be that these comments were born from the creative mind of Oscar Wilde himself in order to reflect his own personality and sense of humor. On the other hand, the humor that is clearly evident in The Importance of Being Earnest, in my opinion, was a creation of the author to bring out the personal quirks of each of the characters.
One of the best examples is when the audience first meets Lady Bracknell. Her conversation was with Algernon in which Algernon was excusing himself from dining with her that evening due to his friend Bunbury. She goes on to speak on her opinion regarding illnesses and those who frequently, or ever, become ill. The passage is ironic because she is bashing those who become sick or harp on illnesses. She even criticizes people who are sympathetic with those who become ill. The irony stems from the fact that everyone at some point in life becomes ill, yet, according to Lady Bracknell, it is unacceptable. The passage is humorous, while inviting the reader into the mind of the character. We find out that Lady Bracknell, depending on how the passage is read, is either very witty or is very disciplined. Either way, it is humorous to the audience, and it gives the audience an insight into her character.
Another example of how wit helps to develop the characters is in regards to the character of Algernon. From the first act, the reader finds out that Algernon is a wealthy man (probably overweight because he eats a lot) who seems to not do much besides travel and dine with friends and family. Yet, although his life is such that he could do whatever he pleases, he finds it necessary to make up an individual on which to blame reasons for his absence from social events, dinners, etc. One amusing scene with Algernon involves the imagery of him eating all of the cucumber sandwiches that have been ordered for his afternoon tea with Lady Bracknell and Gwendolen. When Bracknell asks Algernon where the food is, he responds by yelling at Lane in regards to where the sandwiches were. The reader can devise that his wit is quick, because instead of taking blame for his gluttony, he decided to blame Lane for not getting the sandwiches to begin with (which is obviously a lie). The imagery created with the stage direction of “picking up empty plate in horror” is humorous, especially with the addition of his verbal reaction. The audience may then see Algernon as witty, but also slick and smart.
The humor and wit that is exuded from each character in The Importance of Being Earnest serves to give an insight into their minds, actions, and personalities. Humor is not a distraction from the development of the plot, because humor, specifically which type of humor a character uses, only helps to develop the personality of the character. Therefore, through the use of wit, Oscar Wilde succeeds in developing each character along with their personalities and what the reader expects from them as individuals.
Part 1:
I personally enjoy Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest much more than I enjoyed Taming of the Shrew because it is much easier to read. I find that when the plot is confounded with too many characters and too much going on (for example, exchanging identities as in Taming), it is much harder to follow and less enjoyable. The Importance of Being Earnest has just the right number of characters and is more modern in writing style so it is easier to comprehend. I found it to be a shame that the plot in Taming of the Shrew was interesting, but because the style was confusing I found it less enjoyable. The humor in The Importance of Being Earnest is much more vivid because I did not have to worry about what was going on, who was who, and what the characters were trying to say.
Part 2:
It was completely apparent in The Importance of Being Earnest that the characters’ senses of humor were very similar. They tended to use wit and off-the-wall comments to amuse the audience. It may be that these comments were born from the creative mind of Oscar Wilde himself in order to reflect his own personality and sense of humor. On the other hand, the humor that is clearly evident in The Importance of Being Earnest, in my opinion, was a creation of the author to bring out the personal quirks of each of the characters.
One of the best examples is when the audience first meets Lady Bracknell. Her conversation was with Algernon in which Algernon was excusing himself from dining with her that evening due to his friend Bunbury. She goes on to speak on her opinion regarding illnesses and those who frequently, or ever, become ill. The passage is ironic because she is bashing those who become sick or harp on illnesses. She even criticizes people who are sympathetic with those who become ill. The irony stems from the fact that everyone at some point in life becomes ill, yet, according to Lady Bracknell, it is unacceptable. The passage is humorous, while inviting the reader into the mind of the character. We find out that Lady Bracknell, depending on how the passage is read, is either very witty or is very disciplined. Either way, it is humorous to the audience, and it gives the audience an insight into her character.
Another example of how wit helps to develop the characters is in regards to the character of Algernon. From the first act, the reader finds out that Algernon is a wealthy man (probably overweight because he eats a lot) who seems to not do much besides travel and dine with friends and family. Yet, although his life is such that he could do whatever he pleases, he finds it necessary to make up an individual on which to blame reasons for his absence from social events, dinners, etc. One amusing scene with Algernon involves the imagery of him eating all of the cucumber sandwiches that have been ordered for his afternoon tea with Lady Bracknell and Gwendolen. When Bracknell asks Algernon where the food is, he responds by yelling at Lane in regards to where the sandwiches were. The reader can devise that his wit is quick, because instead of taking blame for his gluttony, he decided to blame Lane for not getting the sandwiches to begin with (which is obviously a lie). The imagery created with the stage direction of “picking up empty plate in horror” is humorous, especially with the addition of his verbal reaction. The audience may then see Algernon as witty, but also slick and smart.
The humor and wit that is exuded from each character in The Importance of Being Earnest serves to give an insight into their minds, actions, and personalities. Humor is not a distraction from the development of the plot, because humor, specifically which type of humor a character uses, only helps to develop the personality of the character. Therefore, through the use of wit, Oscar Wilde succeeds in developing each character along with their personalities and what the reader expects from them as individuals.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Blog 6: Taming of the Shrew
Melissa Long Blog 6
Part 1:
I personally do not like Taming of the Shrew. I find that Shakespeare is hard to understand. Also, in works of literature where there are many characters, it is hard to remember who everyone is (especially if they decide to pretend to be other people such as Hortensio and Lucentio). I enjoy the whit that Shakespeare can convey in his dramas, however, I feel I have to re-read most of the scenes in order to fully appreciate it.
Part 2:
In Act 2, Scene 1 Petruchio is finally able to meet his idolized love (Katharina), whom he has yet to meet. The banter they exchange is playfully romantic, yet is also dramatic and aggressive. Humor is generated though this portion of the scene because Pertuchio is so adamant about acquiring Katharina’s love. She is doubtful about his intentions (due to the lack of attention she usually receives) and is hesitant to respond. Instead, she argues with him, but the argument is playful and at times includes sexual innuendo (most often offered by Pertuchio). Although Katharina may not know it, Pertuchio is sincerely fond of her and has already made arrangements to marry her.
The scene between Pertuchio and Katharina begins with an internal dialogue by Pertuchio. He basically gives himself a pep-talk to pump up his self-esteem and prepare his wit for this girl he has heard so much about (all negative things). He must feel that he has to get ready for the war she is about to wage on his ego and esteem. Katharina begins the conversation with a guard up, reprimanding Pertuchio for mistaking her name. Pertuchio attempts to woo her with compliments and refuting the claims made by others against her. Katharina refuses to believe his sincerity and instead calls him a name, to which Pertuchio responds with a sexual comment. Katharina then equates Pertuchio to an ass that is difficult to deal with. Pertuchio returns with a comment on how she is a shrew. The witty banter continues on with talk about buzzards and wasps until Pertuchio makes another sexual comment and Katharina slaps him. They continue on mainly bickering and snipping at each other playfully, until Pertuchio asks Katharina to marry him. When her father returns, the wedding day is set (after Pertuchio refers to her as a shrew).
The humor generated from this conversation has a witty undertone, yet may seem abrasive. The characters are taking shots at each other, but the reader can tell by Pertuchio’s innuendo that the situation is light and playful. The subtext available to the reader is the sexual aspect. Pertuchio makes attempts throughout the entire conversation to match Katharina’s remarks, and in doing so, changes her perspective of him. Pertuchio reveals his intentions to marry her, and she refuses, yet it seems underneath her hard exterior she is flattered. Although the union is sudden, and Katharina still disagrees to the wedding, the reader believe that because of this conversation, they will fall in love and she will be converted from shrew to modest and virtuous.
Part 1:
I personally do not like Taming of the Shrew. I find that Shakespeare is hard to understand. Also, in works of literature where there are many characters, it is hard to remember who everyone is (especially if they decide to pretend to be other people such as Hortensio and Lucentio). I enjoy the whit that Shakespeare can convey in his dramas, however, I feel I have to re-read most of the scenes in order to fully appreciate it.
Part 2:
In Act 2, Scene 1 Petruchio is finally able to meet his idolized love (Katharina), whom he has yet to meet. The banter they exchange is playfully romantic, yet is also dramatic and aggressive. Humor is generated though this portion of the scene because Pertuchio is so adamant about acquiring Katharina’s love. She is doubtful about his intentions (due to the lack of attention she usually receives) and is hesitant to respond. Instead, she argues with him, but the argument is playful and at times includes sexual innuendo (most often offered by Pertuchio). Although Katharina may not know it, Pertuchio is sincerely fond of her and has already made arrangements to marry her.
The scene between Pertuchio and Katharina begins with an internal dialogue by Pertuchio. He basically gives himself a pep-talk to pump up his self-esteem and prepare his wit for this girl he has heard so much about (all negative things). He must feel that he has to get ready for the war she is about to wage on his ego and esteem. Katharina begins the conversation with a guard up, reprimanding Pertuchio for mistaking her name. Pertuchio attempts to woo her with compliments and refuting the claims made by others against her. Katharina refuses to believe his sincerity and instead calls him a name, to which Pertuchio responds with a sexual comment. Katharina then equates Pertuchio to an ass that is difficult to deal with. Pertuchio returns with a comment on how she is a shrew. The witty banter continues on with talk about buzzards and wasps until Pertuchio makes another sexual comment and Katharina slaps him. They continue on mainly bickering and snipping at each other playfully, until Pertuchio asks Katharina to marry him. When her father returns, the wedding day is set (after Pertuchio refers to her as a shrew).
The humor generated from this conversation has a witty undertone, yet may seem abrasive. The characters are taking shots at each other, but the reader can tell by Pertuchio’s innuendo that the situation is light and playful. The subtext available to the reader is the sexual aspect. Pertuchio makes attempts throughout the entire conversation to match Katharina’s remarks, and in doing so, changes her perspective of him. Pertuchio reveals his intentions to marry her, and she refuses, yet it seems underneath her hard exterior she is flattered. Although the union is sudden, and Katharina still disagrees to the wedding, the reader believe that because of this conversation, they will fall in love and she will be converted from shrew to modest and virtuous.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Shirley Jackson, "The Lottery"
Part 1.
Although I have read “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson many times before, I still thoroughly enjoy it. “The Lottery” reminds me of a scary movie because typically the scariest parts come as a surprise to the audience despite seeming obvious after the fact. Also, suspense is built up in a horror film toward the climax: usually the scariest part of the film. Like some scary movies, the end of “The Lottery” always catches me off guard, such that it almost sneaks up and pops out of nowhere unexpectedly. Yet, the entire story foreshadows each occurrence that leads up to the climax. This story is one that almost tricks the reader into thinking they know what will happen to the Hutchinson family, yet due to the tone of the characters, we know that nothing good can come of the lottery. In addition, the reader is further fooled because most modern people believe a lottery to be an event with a positive, not a negative, connotation. The irony and unconscious knowledge of the conclusion is what makes “The Lottery” one of those stories that can be read many times without tiring.
Part 2.
“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is one of those that keeps the reader in suspense the entire time, until the end, where the unthinkable happens. Although the reader is surprised at the finale, unbeknownst to the reader, the ending had been foreshadowed the entire time by characters and events. Jackson uses foreshadowing and suspense to build the reader up to the climax of the “The Lottery”.
Reading “The Lottery” once is not sufficient enough to fully appreciate the hints and foreshadowing that Jackson includes within the body of the story. She uses both conversations between characters, characters’ actions, and descriptions of demeanor to lead the reader to believe the conclusion will not be a happy one, yet, also supplies contrasting events and actions to confuse the reader and build suspense. First, the title “The Lottery” is one that conveys a positive message to the reader. Lotteries are usually thought to be positive events, therefore, the use of this as the title is a crucial use of irony established by Jackson.
The meeting of the townspeople in the square is what starts off this story. The reader is confronted with feelings of obligation and tradition expressed by the characters. Jackson uses foreshadowing by describing the demeanors of the groups of people gathered in the square. First, the children are hesitant to play, but then begin to play with rocks by placing them into a pile. Next, the men that gather make meaningless small talk, and are too engulfed in the event to laugh at jokes offered by neighbors. Finally, the women are described in such a way that makes them seem nervous and tense. When Mr. Summers asks for help with the “black box”, the villagers were hesitant, further insinuating that this event will not be a happy one. With such a small town and residents who all know each other, the reader must assume something is wrong if the villagers prefer not to help Summers with the box.
After the characters are described in minor detail, the ritual of the lottery is described. It seems that, regardless of whether or not anyone dislikes the lottery in this town, it is here to stay for the time being due to its deep roots in tradition. The lottery is so sacred and protected that the black box is kept in a safe the night before the drawing (it is kept in the coal factory which is a foreshadowing to the marking on one of the slips of paper drawn during the lottery). Next, Mrs. Hutchinson is introduced, who happens to be late to the assembly. Strangely, her family did not decide to alert her to their departure when they left their house that morning. As a friendly banter with Mr. Summers to explain her reason for being late to the assembly, Mrs. Hutchinson states, “ ‘Wouldn’t have me leave m’dishes in the sink, now, would you. Joe?’” Unless she feels she would not be coming back to finish the dishes, why would they not be able to wait for her return? This remark foreshadows Mrs. Hutchinson’s fate at the end of the story.
Once the assembly begins, the characters fall silent, which instructs the reader that the event is serious and to be taken seriously. Jackson describes the characters by saying “they grinned at one another humorlessly and nervously”. Here, the climax is begging to be built by suspense. In a conversation between two characters, we find out that other towns have eliminated the use of lotteries. The only conclusion to come to from that statement is that they are not favored anymore, which would mean they are a bad thing or unnecessary. Once Bill Hutchinson picks the ‘winning lottery ticket,’ the other towns people are relieved. Mrs. Hutchinson begins to rant that the lottery is not fair, and the reader again gets the message that the lottery win will not be a good thing for the Hutchinson family. Finally Tessie Hutchinson picks the winning ticket and is stoned with the stones the children had set aside in the beginning of the story.
Shirley Jackson utilizes suspense throughout “The Lottery” by keeping the reader guessing as to whether the lottery is a good or a bad thing. She uses foreshadowing to hint to the reader that the lottery will not end happily. For example, the characters (all except the children) are stiff and anxious. Also, the overall tone of the crowd is somber, and although they are simply honoring tradition, there are a few in the crowd who do not understand the need for the ritual. From this, the reader can surmise that the lottery is not necessary and not liked by all. The suspense is built up using contradictory actions and expressions of emotions, until the very end, when an unexpected act occurs to a character for whom we have built up inexplicable sympathy. Jackson’s message, in a literary sense, seems to be that at any time there can be a twist in the story, and it is up to us to watch out for it. On a personal level, Jackson’s message can be read as, not everything is what it seems.
Although I have read “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson many times before, I still thoroughly enjoy it. “The Lottery” reminds me of a scary movie because typically the scariest parts come as a surprise to the audience despite seeming obvious after the fact. Also, suspense is built up in a horror film toward the climax: usually the scariest part of the film. Like some scary movies, the end of “The Lottery” always catches me off guard, such that it almost sneaks up and pops out of nowhere unexpectedly. Yet, the entire story foreshadows each occurrence that leads up to the climax. This story is one that almost tricks the reader into thinking they know what will happen to the Hutchinson family, yet due to the tone of the characters, we know that nothing good can come of the lottery. In addition, the reader is further fooled because most modern people believe a lottery to be an event with a positive, not a negative, connotation. The irony and unconscious knowledge of the conclusion is what makes “The Lottery” one of those stories that can be read many times without tiring.
Part 2.
“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is one of those that keeps the reader in suspense the entire time, until the end, where the unthinkable happens. Although the reader is surprised at the finale, unbeknownst to the reader, the ending had been foreshadowed the entire time by characters and events. Jackson uses foreshadowing and suspense to build the reader up to the climax of the “The Lottery”.
Reading “The Lottery” once is not sufficient enough to fully appreciate the hints and foreshadowing that Jackson includes within the body of the story. She uses both conversations between characters, characters’ actions, and descriptions of demeanor to lead the reader to believe the conclusion will not be a happy one, yet, also supplies contrasting events and actions to confuse the reader and build suspense. First, the title “The Lottery” is one that conveys a positive message to the reader. Lotteries are usually thought to be positive events, therefore, the use of this as the title is a crucial use of irony established by Jackson.
The meeting of the townspeople in the square is what starts off this story. The reader is confronted with feelings of obligation and tradition expressed by the characters. Jackson uses foreshadowing by describing the demeanors of the groups of people gathered in the square. First, the children are hesitant to play, but then begin to play with rocks by placing them into a pile. Next, the men that gather make meaningless small talk, and are too engulfed in the event to laugh at jokes offered by neighbors. Finally, the women are described in such a way that makes them seem nervous and tense. When Mr. Summers asks for help with the “black box”, the villagers were hesitant, further insinuating that this event will not be a happy one. With such a small town and residents who all know each other, the reader must assume something is wrong if the villagers prefer not to help Summers with the box.
After the characters are described in minor detail, the ritual of the lottery is described. It seems that, regardless of whether or not anyone dislikes the lottery in this town, it is here to stay for the time being due to its deep roots in tradition. The lottery is so sacred and protected that the black box is kept in a safe the night before the drawing (it is kept in the coal factory which is a foreshadowing to the marking on one of the slips of paper drawn during the lottery). Next, Mrs. Hutchinson is introduced, who happens to be late to the assembly. Strangely, her family did not decide to alert her to their departure when they left their house that morning. As a friendly banter with Mr. Summers to explain her reason for being late to the assembly, Mrs. Hutchinson states, “ ‘Wouldn’t have me leave m’dishes in the sink, now, would you. Joe?’” Unless she feels she would not be coming back to finish the dishes, why would they not be able to wait for her return? This remark foreshadows Mrs. Hutchinson’s fate at the end of the story.
Once the assembly begins, the characters fall silent, which instructs the reader that the event is serious and to be taken seriously. Jackson describes the characters by saying “they grinned at one another humorlessly and nervously”. Here, the climax is begging to be built by suspense. In a conversation between two characters, we find out that other towns have eliminated the use of lotteries. The only conclusion to come to from that statement is that they are not favored anymore, which would mean they are a bad thing or unnecessary. Once Bill Hutchinson picks the ‘winning lottery ticket,’ the other towns people are relieved. Mrs. Hutchinson begins to rant that the lottery is not fair, and the reader again gets the message that the lottery win will not be a good thing for the Hutchinson family. Finally Tessie Hutchinson picks the winning ticket and is stoned with the stones the children had set aside in the beginning of the story.
Shirley Jackson utilizes suspense throughout “The Lottery” by keeping the reader guessing as to whether the lottery is a good or a bad thing. She uses foreshadowing to hint to the reader that the lottery will not end happily. For example, the characters (all except the children) are stiff and anxious. Also, the overall tone of the crowd is somber, and although they are simply honoring tradition, there are a few in the crowd who do not understand the need for the ritual. From this, the reader can surmise that the lottery is not necessary and not liked by all. The suspense is built up using contradictory actions and expressions of emotions, until the very end, when an unexpected act occurs to a character for whom we have built up inexplicable sympathy. Jackson’s message, in a literary sense, seems to be that at any time there can be a twist in the story, and it is up to us to watch out for it. On a personal level, Jackson’s message can be read as, not everything is what it seems.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Blog 4- Fitzgerald
Melissa Long
Part 1:
At first I hated “Bernice Bobs Her Hair”. I thought it was pointless and boring. During the second half of the story, however, the tone changed and the events seemed to be picking up pace. I began to form an opinion as to where the story was heading, and each event that occurred backed up my assumption. Once Bernice bobbed her hair, I became angry with Majorie. The ending was completely satisfying, and relieved my feelings of anxiety over Bernice’s situation.
Part 2:
The author, F. Scott Fitzgerald, puts a lot of effort into providing the reader with tidbits of information on each character included in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair”. Originally, the narrator offers us information on the setting in which we will find our actors. Next, the reader is introduced to some characters and given some minor information on them. Originally, the narrator has the reader follow the events of Warren McIntyre. Later, however, the author incorporates Majorie Harvey into the picture. Both of these characters are established and the reader is provided with more background information than with the other characters. Majorie originally is portrayed, through Warren’s eyes, as a polite and sought-after beauty. Through Bernice’s perceptions, however, we are shown a different side of Majorie: a side that is evil and maniacal.
Each character in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” is originally portrayed in one way, and then with the addition of conflict and drama, is left to be interpreted by the reader in a different way. The character, Warren McIntyre, is first revealed as a quiet loner who does not involve himself directly into the social scene. He is in love with Majorie, whom he perceives as perfect, sweet, thoughtful, and beautiful. Warren is often forced to dance with Majorie’s cousin, Bernice, whom is perceived as weak, “dopeless” and “dull”. He does so to win the affection of his love Majorie. Through a different perspective (that of cousin Bernice), we see that Majorie is not really a sweet girl. Instead, the reader finds out that Majorie puts on a mask so as to win the affection of men, and in reality, she is leading them all on just for the attention. Bernice’s persona changes from quiet and boring to naive and hopelessly looking for affection and popularity in all the wrong places. With the help of Majorie, Bernice is able to fit the mold of a modern socialite woman and accomplish her goal of fitting in. In addition, she acquires the attention of Warren, who can now be seen as shallow for only liking Bernice now that she has better social skills. Warren decides Bernice is not good enough for him, however, when she cuts her hair. Majorie becomes a malicious character by deliberately planning the public embarrassment of her cousin in order to become the most popular again. And finally, Bernice exacts her revenge by placing the same fate on her cousin that she is now left to endure. Bernice leaves the story as a self-assured and strong character.
Apparently, Fitzgerald decided in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” that identity is not static. The reader’s view of each character is morphed throughout the entire story with the addition of new events and interactions. The major change was that of Bernice with her transformation from reserved and unsure to assertive and confident. Her identity not only changed for us as the readers, but also for her as a character. The identities of the other characters were possibly always the same, but were revealed slowly allowing the reader to formulate opinions about each one. Bernice’s transformation was drastic and was a permanent alteration to her personal identity.
Part 1:
At first I hated “Bernice Bobs Her Hair”. I thought it was pointless and boring. During the second half of the story, however, the tone changed and the events seemed to be picking up pace. I began to form an opinion as to where the story was heading, and each event that occurred backed up my assumption. Once Bernice bobbed her hair, I became angry with Majorie. The ending was completely satisfying, and relieved my feelings of anxiety over Bernice’s situation.
Part 2:
The author, F. Scott Fitzgerald, puts a lot of effort into providing the reader with tidbits of information on each character included in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair”. Originally, the narrator offers us information on the setting in which we will find our actors. Next, the reader is introduced to some characters and given some minor information on them. Originally, the narrator has the reader follow the events of Warren McIntyre. Later, however, the author incorporates Majorie Harvey into the picture. Both of these characters are established and the reader is provided with more background information than with the other characters. Majorie originally is portrayed, through Warren’s eyes, as a polite and sought-after beauty. Through Bernice’s perceptions, however, we are shown a different side of Majorie: a side that is evil and maniacal.
Each character in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” is originally portrayed in one way, and then with the addition of conflict and drama, is left to be interpreted by the reader in a different way. The character, Warren McIntyre, is first revealed as a quiet loner who does not involve himself directly into the social scene. He is in love with Majorie, whom he perceives as perfect, sweet, thoughtful, and beautiful. Warren is often forced to dance with Majorie’s cousin, Bernice, whom is perceived as weak, “dopeless” and “dull”. He does so to win the affection of his love Majorie. Through a different perspective (that of cousin Bernice), we see that Majorie is not really a sweet girl. Instead, the reader finds out that Majorie puts on a mask so as to win the affection of men, and in reality, she is leading them all on just for the attention. Bernice’s persona changes from quiet and boring to naive and hopelessly looking for affection and popularity in all the wrong places. With the help of Majorie, Bernice is able to fit the mold of a modern socialite woman and accomplish her goal of fitting in. In addition, she acquires the attention of Warren, who can now be seen as shallow for only liking Bernice now that she has better social skills. Warren decides Bernice is not good enough for him, however, when she cuts her hair. Majorie becomes a malicious character by deliberately planning the public embarrassment of her cousin in order to become the most popular again. And finally, Bernice exacts her revenge by placing the same fate on her cousin that she is now left to endure. Bernice leaves the story as a self-assured and strong character.
Apparently, Fitzgerald decided in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” that identity is not static. The reader’s view of each character is morphed throughout the entire story with the addition of new events and interactions. The major change was that of Bernice with her transformation from reserved and unsure to assertive and confident. Her identity not only changed for us as the readers, but also for her as a character. The identities of the other characters were possibly always the same, but were revealed slowly allowing the reader to formulate opinions about each one. Bernice’s transformation was drastic and was a permanent alteration to her personal identity.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Blog Assignment 3
"A&P" by John Updike
Part 1:
I thought this story was pretty interesting. I am actually a psychology major, and I love reading other people's opinions of their surroundings and observations of life because it opens a great window into how they think. I feel like I would dislike the narrator if i met him in person, because he seems arrogant. I know that everyone judges other people, most of the time automatically, but this guy is an a-hole. For example, the narrator calls the customers "sheep" insinuating they are mindless shopping machines, or unintelligent. He also refers to a customer who he termed a "witch" and believes, as a result of this observation, references the Salem witch burnings. He seems a little harsh when making observations about the three girls, and contradicts himself by labeling to the leader "Queenie". Overall, I enjoyed reading this story because it was interesting, at times funny, and held my attention by offering unexpected turns (e.g.- when the narrator quit his job at the end in a valliant effort to win the approval of his admired snob).
Part 2:
The narrator in A&P reveals several things about himself, his personality, and the diegesis in which the story takes place in the discourse of his narrative. There is no exposition offered by the narrator, so the reader is left to surmise his situation. In reading “A&P”, the reader discovers the narrator is a nineteen-year-old cashier at a grocery store. This story takes place in the 1980’s, which is apparent when the narrator refers to a girl’s hair, which is not teased (“frizzed”) correctly. We know the events definitely occur before 1990, because the narrator refers to a future event that may occur “maybe in 1990”. The reader is also told by the narrator that the location of this place of business is “five miles from the beach… in the middle of town… north of Boston”. The narrator comes off to the reader as young and fun loving, the opposite of his superior, because he talks down about his boss who is “pretty dreary” and “teaches Sunday school”. The reader may deduce that, in the opinion of the narrator, as a result of his lifestyle and work environment, the manager has become a dull person. This personality type conflicts with that of the narrator, who enjoys the rebellious nature of the three girls, and impulsively uses their embarrassment as a reason for quitting his job. It also seems that the narrator has a specific bias against women, because most of his critiques (except for his boss and fellow employee) are directed at women. The narrator questions the minds of women, and insults women in the same statement by asking, “do you really think it’s a mind in there or just a little buzz like a bee in a glass jar”? The narrator reveals himself to be slightly arrogant, judgmental, naïve, impulsive, stubborn, and hormonal.
The narrator notices the three girls who walk into his store, and immediately begins to critique them, beginning with the one he perceives to be overweight and unattractive (more so from the front). He changes his opinion of the girls from the beginning of the story, where he initially had an easy time putting them down (including “Queenie”). The narrator originally thinks of the leader of the girls to be snobby: he says she has “prima donna legs”. He seems to not only think of her as stuck-up but also as arrogant and in control of her two friends. It is not until he begins to notice her appearance that he turns around his opinion of her. He still sees her as being the “Queen”, but also views her as attractive. Later, the narrator comments on his remorseful feelings for the girls when he notices other men staring at them. This is the turn in the story where the narrator’s subjective opinion shifts from self-centered to sympathetic. He even rationalizes their behavior of coming into the store not properly dressed by claiming that most people prefer “juvenile delinquency” to following policy. As a result of his change in opinion, the cashier quits his job, with a secret hope that the girls will praise him for his efforts to stand up for their decision to wear what they want into the store. The narrator begins the story with heavy criticisms and presumptuous judgments of others, and ends with a compassionate gesture to stand up for the rights of a customer. It just so happens that the reason he stood up for the girls is because he was attracted to one, and did not think rationally about the situation. He also expected to be rewarded for his actions, and instead realizes the severity of his decision and its impact on his future. In reality, the narrator never changed as a person. Instead, his temporary opinion was altered by clouded visions of his crush and he made a rash decision in accordance with that opinion. He remains arrogant, immature, and judgmental, but may be a little less naïve.
Part 1:
I thought this story was pretty interesting. I am actually a psychology major, and I love reading other people's opinions of their surroundings and observations of life because it opens a great window into how they think. I feel like I would dislike the narrator if i met him in person, because he seems arrogant. I know that everyone judges other people, most of the time automatically, but this guy is an a-hole. For example, the narrator calls the customers "sheep" insinuating they are mindless shopping machines, or unintelligent. He also refers to a customer who he termed a "witch" and believes, as a result of this observation, references the Salem witch burnings. He seems a little harsh when making observations about the three girls, and contradicts himself by labeling to the leader "Queenie". Overall, I enjoyed reading this story because it was interesting, at times funny, and held my attention by offering unexpected turns (e.g.- when the narrator quit his job at the end in a valliant effort to win the approval of his admired snob).
Part 2:
The narrator in A&P reveals several things about himself, his personality, and the diegesis in which the story takes place in the discourse of his narrative. There is no exposition offered by the narrator, so the reader is left to surmise his situation. In reading “A&P”, the reader discovers the narrator is a nineteen-year-old cashier at a grocery store. This story takes place in the 1980’s, which is apparent when the narrator refers to a girl’s hair, which is not teased (“frizzed”) correctly. We know the events definitely occur before 1990, because the narrator refers to a future event that may occur “maybe in 1990”. The reader is also told by the narrator that the location of this place of business is “five miles from the beach… in the middle of town… north of Boston”. The narrator comes off to the reader as young and fun loving, the opposite of his superior, because he talks down about his boss who is “pretty dreary” and “teaches Sunday school”. The reader may deduce that, in the opinion of the narrator, as a result of his lifestyle and work environment, the manager has become a dull person. This personality type conflicts with that of the narrator, who enjoys the rebellious nature of the three girls, and impulsively uses their embarrassment as a reason for quitting his job. It also seems that the narrator has a specific bias against women, because most of his critiques (except for his boss and fellow employee) are directed at women. The narrator questions the minds of women, and insults women in the same statement by asking, “do you really think it’s a mind in there or just a little buzz like a bee in a glass jar”? The narrator reveals himself to be slightly arrogant, judgmental, naïve, impulsive, stubborn, and hormonal.
The narrator notices the three girls who walk into his store, and immediately begins to critique them, beginning with the one he perceives to be overweight and unattractive (more so from the front). He changes his opinion of the girls from the beginning of the story, where he initially had an easy time putting them down (including “Queenie”). The narrator originally thinks of the leader of the girls to be snobby: he says she has “prima donna legs”. He seems to not only think of her as stuck-up but also as arrogant and in control of her two friends. It is not until he begins to notice her appearance that he turns around his opinion of her. He still sees her as being the “Queen”, but also views her as attractive. Later, the narrator comments on his remorseful feelings for the girls when he notices other men staring at them. This is the turn in the story where the narrator’s subjective opinion shifts from self-centered to sympathetic. He even rationalizes their behavior of coming into the store not properly dressed by claiming that most people prefer “juvenile delinquency” to following policy. As a result of his change in opinion, the cashier quits his job, with a secret hope that the girls will praise him for his efforts to stand up for their decision to wear what they want into the store. The narrator begins the story with heavy criticisms and presumptuous judgments of others, and ends with a compassionate gesture to stand up for the rights of a customer. It just so happens that the reason he stood up for the girls is because he was attracted to one, and did not think rationally about the situation. He also expected to be rewarded for his actions, and instead realizes the severity of his decision and its impact on his future. In reality, the narrator never changed as a person. Instead, his temporary opinion was altered by clouded visions of his crush and he made a rash decision in accordance with that opinion. He remains arrogant, immature, and judgmental, but may be a little less naïve.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Assignment 2/14/07
How does Ginsberg's speaker see himself in relation to Whitman and Whitman's poetry?
Part 1: My opinion
Personally, I am not usually a fan of Walt Whitman. I found "I Hear America Singing" boring. I even started to skip lines in order to finish the poem more quickly because I felt it was repetative. If I had to pick my favorite out of the three Whitman poems assigned I would choose "Cavalry Crossing a Ford". I enjoyed the imagery he used to describe the soldiers and their environment. In regards to Ginsberg's poem, I found it to be whitty and full of satire. It was much more interesting to read because Ginsberg's sense of humor kept my attention.
Part 2: Response
Ginsberg's character exudes an aire of confidence that differs greatly from the characters in Whitman's poems. Ginsberg's character seems to be unsure of himself and his actions. The character also mentions being lonely a few times. However, I think that most of the descriptions used by the character are meant to mock Whitman. For example, he refers to Whitman as a "lonely old grubber" and "lonely old courage-teacher". The character initially describes himself as "self-conscious", yet the way he mocks Whitman makes him sound confident in his despair.
Whitman's characters, on the other hand, seem confident and happy. In the poem "I Hear America Singing", for example, the characters each sing "strong melodious songs". Each person has their own occupation which they are proud of and proclaim through "song". In the poem "Cavalry Crossing a Ford", the characters are the soldiers. Whitman uses imagery which promotes an idea of tired diligence. For example, Whitman describes the soldiers as, "brown-faced men- each group, each person, a picture- the negligent rest on the saddles". This imagery gives the reader a sense that their faces have been worn by the sun's rays. They are picturesqe, yet weary from travel. The characters described by Whitman seem to come alive within the poems. In the first poem, "I Hear America Singing", the characters are confident and each has their own story to tell. In "Calvary Crossing a Ford", the characters come together as a cohesive group which pushes forward as one group, yet containing many individuals. In Ginsberg's poems, on the other hand, his character is unsure and depressed. He pokes fun at a target in a way which seems to be to take pain from his own suffering. He claims to be lonely and "self-conscious". This is a major contrast to that of Whitman's poems. It is ironic that Ginsberg's character which is not confident mocks Whitman and his poems which all carry a confident message.
Part 1: My opinion
Personally, I am not usually a fan of Walt Whitman. I found "I Hear America Singing" boring. I even started to skip lines in order to finish the poem more quickly because I felt it was repetative. If I had to pick my favorite out of the three Whitman poems assigned I would choose "Cavalry Crossing a Ford". I enjoyed the imagery he used to describe the soldiers and their environment. In regards to Ginsberg's poem, I found it to be whitty and full of satire. It was much more interesting to read because Ginsberg's sense of humor kept my attention.
Part 2: Response
Ginsberg's character exudes an aire of confidence that differs greatly from the characters in Whitman's poems. Ginsberg's character seems to be unsure of himself and his actions. The character also mentions being lonely a few times. However, I think that most of the descriptions used by the character are meant to mock Whitman. For example, he refers to Whitman as a "lonely old grubber" and "lonely old courage-teacher". The character initially describes himself as "self-conscious", yet the way he mocks Whitman makes him sound confident in his despair.
Whitman's characters, on the other hand, seem confident and happy. In the poem "I Hear America Singing", for example, the characters each sing "strong melodious songs". Each person has their own occupation which they are proud of and proclaim through "song". In the poem "Cavalry Crossing a Ford", the characters are the soldiers. Whitman uses imagery which promotes an idea of tired diligence. For example, Whitman describes the soldiers as, "brown-faced men- each group, each person, a picture- the negligent rest on the saddles". This imagery gives the reader a sense that their faces have been worn by the sun's rays. They are picturesqe, yet weary from travel. The characters described by Whitman seem to come alive within the poems. In the first poem, "I Hear America Singing", the characters are confident and each has their own story to tell. In "Calvary Crossing a Ford", the characters come together as a cohesive group which pushes forward as one group, yet containing many individuals. In Ginsberg's poems, on the other hand, his character is unsure and depressed. He pokes fun at a target in a way which seems to be to take pain from his own suffering. He claims to be lonely and "self-conscious". This is a major contrast to that of Whitman's poems. It is ironic that Ginsberg's character which is not confident mocks Whitman and his poems which all carry a confident message.
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