The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Holden's story finally comes to a close. He has told about the last few years of his life up to the current point. By this time, Holden has changed. He no longer is struggling with his parents' and societies requests/requirements. He also is no longer struggling against school and getting an education. His physical and mental conflicts with others will not repeat themselves; Holden admittedly regrets them. Though he may still be confused about himself inside, his external conflicts are becoming much less severe, or have been solved. "If you want to know the truth, I don't know what I think about it...About all I know is, I sort of miss everybody I told about. Even old Stradlater and Ackley, for instance" (Salinger, 214). Holden is going back to school, and he realizes that he can actually make decent relationships with people if he tries.
At the end of the novel, Holden decides to just go home instead of skipping out on his family and living alone. He also decides to go back to school. This shows that Holden is maturing, and how is is gradually falling in line with society's standards of a well-off young man.
Outwardly, Holden appears to be making a positive change. On the inside though, he is still confused and not as mature as he appears. In addition, he might still have a problem with relationships- "Don't ever tall anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody" (Salinger, 214). This shows that Holden is very averse to getting close to people just because he might get hurt, like he was hurt when his brother died. However, this does show a positive change because it exhibits how Holden is showing connections to people and longing for more connections. Therefore, I think Holden has improved drastically since the beginning of the novel and no longer has to deal with as many conflicts as before.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Catcher in the Rye- Theme and Motif
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Theme is defined as the insight about human life that is revealed in a literary work and motif is defined as recurring image, phrase, idea, or situation used throughout a work, unifying new ideas to a theme. Though they have different definitions, I believe the two are very closely related in this novel.
The motif I got from this novel was Holden's attempts to distance himself from adults and maturity. He was very focused on things in-between (like a pond half-frozen) and on finding ways to relate to children. One thing he says he really likes to spend time with his little sister Phoebe- "Anyway, I like it now...Sitting here and chewing the fat and horsing..." (Salinger, 172). In section 3, he tied a girl's skate and wanted to hang out with her. In section four, he walked two younger boys around the museum- "They stuck close as hell to me, and the one that didn't talk at all practically was holding onto my sleeve" (Salinger, 204).
He refers to many people as "old" as a way to differentiate himself from them and their maturity or age, even though some are the same age as him. He calls his friends old to give the impression that he is younger than them. Even though he may act less mature many times, Holden is in his late teens, the same age as his classmates and roommate. However, he seem to get along much better with those younger than him. He was very close to his little brother Allie, and he is very close to his little sister.
A recurring situation is Holden hanging out with younger children, and having much more fun or being more comfortable than when he spends time with people his age or older. The insight is that not everyone matures steadily or completely. Some people just don't want to grow up.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Theme is defined as the insight about human life that is revealed in a literary work and motif is defined as recurring image, phrase, idea, or situation used throughout a work, unifying new ideas to a theme. Though they have different definitions, I believe the two are very closely related in this novel.
The motif I got from this novel was Holden's attempts to distance himself from adults and maturity. He was very focused on things in-between (like a pond half-frozen) and on finding ways to relate to children. One thing he says he really likes to spend time with his little sister Phoebe- "Anyway, I like it now...Sitting here and chewing the fat and horsing..." (Salinger, 172). In section 3, he tied a girl's skate and wanted to hang out with her. In section four, he walked two younger boys around the museum- "They stuck close as hell to me, and the one that didn't talk at all practically was holding onto my sleeve" (Salinger, 204).
He refers to many people as "old" as a way to differentiate himself from them and their maturity or age, even though some are the same age as him. He calls his friends old to give the impression that he is younger than them. Even though he may act less mature many times, Holden is in his late teens, the same age as his classmates and roommate. However, he seem to get along much better with those younger than him. He was very close to his little brother Allie, and he is very close to his little sister.
A recurring situation is Holden hanging out with younger children, and having much more fun or being more comfortable than when he spends time with people his age or older. The insight is that not everyone matures steadily or completely. Some people just don't want to grow up.
Catcher in the Rye- Allusion and Symbolism
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Earlier on in the novel, Holden hears a boy singing a little tune, and it gets stuck in his head and he keeps thinking about it. Holden mentions it later to Phoebe when she asks him if he really likes anything a lot. "'You know that song, 'If a body catch a body comin through the rye? ...What I have to do, I have to catch everybody if they start to go over the cliff...'" (Salinger, 173)
This quote alludes to a poem by Robert Burns, and it shows a lot about how Holden feels about himself and the affects of maturation on others. I believe that the cliff Holden refers to is symbolic of the crossing over from youth into adulthood. Holden as the catcher in the rye shows how Holden views himself as fitting in more with younger children, and also how he wants to save them from adulthood. Holden is not having an easy time being grown up, and he wants to save other children from turning out like him- immature and confused in a very grown up and lonely world. The cliff imagery is quite harsh- Holden views the transition from childhood to adulthood is a long and painful one. And as Holden is still present in the rye, Holden himself has not truly grown up yet.
The rye is an innocent and cheerful place, with "all these kids playing some game" (Salinger, 173). The cliff is the scary end to the rye, which is childhood. What would make Holden the happiest is saving other children from the trauma he had to endure from growing old too fast and not fitting in in a mature world.
This points to the primary internal conflict of the story and indicates why the book is named after this poem: Holden grew up to fast and is still partly stuck in childhood; he is an immature boy forced into a mature world.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Earlier on in the novel, Holden hears a boy singing a little tune, and it gets stuck in his head and he keeps thinking about it. Holden mentions it later to Phoebe when she asks him if he really likes anything a lot. "'You know that song, 'If a body catch a body comin through the rye? ...What I have to do, I have to catch everybody if they start to go over the cliff...'" (Salinger, 173)
This quote alludes to a poem by Robert Burns, and it shows a lot about how Holden feels about himself and the affects of maturation on others. I believe that the cliff Holden refers to is symbolic of the crossing over from youth into adulthood. Holden as the catcher in the rye shows how Holden views himself as fitting in more with younger children, and also how he wants to save them from adulthood. Holden is not having an easy time being grown up, and he wants to save other children from turning out like him- immature and confused in a very grown up and lonely world. The cliff imagery is quite harsh- Holden views the transition from childhood to adulthood is a long and painful one. And as Holden is still present in the rye, Holden himself has not truly grown up yet.
The rye is an innocent and cheerful place, with "all these kids playing some game" (Salinger, 173). The cliff is the scary end to the rye, which is childhood. What would make Holden the happiest is saving other children from the trauma he had to endure from growing old too fast and not fitting in in a mature world.
This points to the primary internal conflict of the story and indicates why the book is named after this poem: Holden grew up to fast and is still partly stuck in childhood; he is an immature boy forced into a mature world.
Catcher in the Rye- Motivation
The Catcher in the Rye
by J. D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Motivation is an interesting topic to discuss in reference to Holden, because at first glance, he has none. In a general view, Holden is completely unmotivated- to make friends, stay in school, or have intelligent conversations. However, as motivation is defined as a characters reasons for doing something, Holden does in fact have motivation for his action, or inaction. Holden always says how he's never "in the mood" to do anything- call people up, go to the movies, engage in a conversation, etc. When he is at Mr. Antolini's house, Mr Antonlini keeps asking Holden to go into detail about what he thinks and feels. Holden says, "'It's hard to explain.' I didn't feel much like trying, either. For one thing, I had this terrible headache all of a sudden" (184).
It seems like the second that anyone wants to get too personal or wants Holden to explain things more fully, Holden has a way or an excuse to avoid it. He blames his impersonal and anti-social behaviors on uncontrollable things, like his mood or a body ache. He refuses to admit that he simply does not want to explain himself or get to personal. This is Holden's way of defending himself and the way he thinks and feels. It also goes back to Holden being confused, insecure, and isolated. He has yet to take responsibility for not being intimately involved with anyone.
When Holden finishes his whole story, he realizes that at the time, he had no motivation to form close relationships; he was pushing people away. He now admits that, "I sort of miss everybody I told about" (214). Holden regrets not being kind or close to people, and with this realization, the reader can hope for a more promising future for Holden.
by J. D. Salinger
pgs 156-214
Motivation is an interesting topic to discuss in reference to Holden, because at first glance, he has none. In a general view, Holden is completely unmotivated- to make friends, stay in school, or have intelligent conversations. However, as motivation is defined as a characters reasons for doing something, Holden does in fact have motivation for his action, or inaction. Holden always says how he's never "in the mood" to do anything- call people up, go to the movies, engage in a conversation, etc. When he is at Mr. Antolini's house, Mr Antonlini keeps asking Holden to go into detail about what he thinks and feels. Holden says, "'It's hard to explain.' I didn't feel much like trying, either. For one thing, I had this terrible headache all of a sudden" (184).
It seems like the second that anyone wants to get too personal or wants Holden to explain things more fully, Holden has a way or an excuse to avoid it. He blames his impersonal and anti-social behaviors on uncontrollable things, like his mood or a body ache. He refuses to admit that he simply does not want to explain himself or get to personal. This is Holden's way of defending himself and the way he thinks and feels. It also goes back to Holden being confused, insecure, and isolated. He has yet to take responsibility for not being intimately involved with anyone.
When Holden finishes his whole story, he realizes that at the time, he had no motivation to form close relationships; he was pushing people away. He now admits that, "I sort of miss everybody I told about" (214). Holden regrets not being kind or close to people, and with this realization, the reader can hope for a more promising future for Holden.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Catcher in the Rye- Narration
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
One thing I'm very curious about, is who Holden is actually talking to. The narration is first person, and he's narrating his current life events like he's telling a friend a story. Sometimes it sounds like Holden is just talking or thinking out loud to himself. But then, there are other cues that suggests he is addressing an outside person. He explains and describes things in detail like the listener is not aware of common knowledge such as Holden's school and family. But the diction and narration are very informal and comfortable. Holden uses a lot of slang and cuss words. When talking about his kid sister Phoebe, he says, "You'd like her" (Salinger, 67). "I don't want you to get the idea she was an icicle or something..." (Salinger, 79). These quotes suggest that Holden knows the listener well enough to know how said person would think.
The listener or the audience of the story may never be totally spelled out, but the informal diction and narration add a different dimension to the story. Even though the narration is first person, things are revealed to the reader that Holden himself doesn't explicitly state. His actions, words, and the actions of others all help reveal his character and personal feelings and beliefs.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
One thing I'm very curious about, is who Holden is actually talking to. The narration is first person, and he's narrating his current life events like he's telling a friend a story. Sometimes it sounds like Holden is just talking or thinking out loud to himself. But then, there are other cues that suggests he is addressing an outside person. He explains and describes things in detail like the listener is not aware of common knowledge such as Holden's school and family. But the diction and narration are very informal and comfortable. Holden uses a lot of slang and cuss words. When talking about his kid sister Phoebe, he says, "You'd like her" (Salinger, 67). "I don't want you to get the idea she was an icicle or something..." (Salinger, 79). These quotes suggest that Holden knows the listener well enough to know how said person would think.
The listener or the audience of the story may never be totally spelled out, but the informal diction and narration add a different dimension to the story. Even though the narration is first person, things are revealed to the reader that Holden himself doesn't explicitly state. His actions, words, and the actions of others all help reveal his character and personal feelings and beliefs.
Catcher in the Rye- Metonymy
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
Holden decides to go to a club, called the Lavender room, in the hotel he's staying at. He wants to dance and decides to go over to a table of three women. In describing and referencing them, Holden uses metonymy and other kinds of insulting names and descriptions. When he first mentions them, he says, "I started giving the three witches at the next table the eye again. That is, the blonde one. The other two were strictly from hunger" (Salinger, 70). Then he says, "Finally the blonde one got up to dance with me...the other two grools nearly had hysterics when we did" (70). Later he said, "The other ugly one, Laverne, thought she was a very witty type" (Salinger, 75).
Holden rarely ever calls the women by their names. He calls them "blonde one" and "ugly one." This distances the women from Holden and the reader. It demonstrates how judgment and simple-minded Holden is. He judges many people solely by their outward appearance. He calls people moron, stupid, ugly, etc. This ties back to his insecurities.
Holden is characterized by his demeaning actions and words because the reader can see that Holden is judgmental, crude, and insecure.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
Holden decides to go to a club, called the Lavender room, in the hotel he's staying at. He wants to dance and decides to go over to a table of three women. In describing and referencing them, Holden uses metonymy and other kinds of insulting names and descriptions. When he first mentions them, he says, "I started giving the three witches at the next table the eye again. That is, the blonde one. The other two were strictly from hunger" (Salinger, 70). Then he says, "Finally the blonde one got up to dance with me...the other two grools nearly had hysterics when we did" (70). Later he said, "The other ugly one, Laverne, thought she was a very witty type" (Salinger, 75).
Holden rarely ever calls the women by their names. He calls them "blonde one" and "ugly one." This distances the women from Holden and the reader. It demonstrates how judgment and simple-minded Holden is. He judges many people solely by their outward appearance. He calls people moron, stupid, ugly, etc. This ties back to his insecurities.
Holden is characterized by his demeaning actions and words because the reader can see that Holden is judgmental, crude, and insecure.
Catcher in the Rye- Hyperbole
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
When Holden got off the train in New York, he was looking for someone to call. He though of calling Jane, but his reasoning was a humorous and memorably characteristic quote:
He said he wouldn't call Jane because "Her mother knew my mothers and I could picture her breaking a goddam leg to get to the phone and tell my mother I was in New York" (Salinger, 59).
This exaggeration is a great example of how Holden feels about teenage problems. He feels confined. What is commonly called "teenage angst" is very apparent.
Holden is kicked out of another private school because he defied authority by not doing his work. Once he has a little bit of freedom, he abuses it. Holden gets his own hotel room, goes to a club, and orders a prostitute.
Holden's restrictive school environment, and possibly restrictive home environment makes him act out. Holden's hyperbole helps show that his perception of adults and authority is a confining image, and causes him to act out.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
When Holden got off the train in New York, he was looking for someone to call. He though of calling Jane, but his reasoning was a humorous and memorably characteristic quote:
He said he wouldn't call Jane because "Her mother knew my mothers and I could picture her breaking a goddam leg to get to the phone and tell my mother I was in New York" (Salinger, 59).
This exaggeration is a great example of how Holden feels about teenage problems. He feels confined. What is commonly called "teenage angst" is very apparent.
Holden is kicked out of another private school because he defied authority by not doing his work. Once he has a little bit of freedom, he abuses it. Holden gets his own hotel room, goes to a club, and orders a prostitute.
Holden's restrictive school environment, and possibly restrictive home environment makes him act out. Holden's hyperbole helps show that his perception of adults and authority is a confining image, and causes him to act out.
Catcher in the Rye- Characterization
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
Throughout the novel so far, I got the sense that Holden is very insecure. He likes to act big , tough, and confident, but his subtle word cues and actions tell a different story. For example, he constantly repeats himself, seemingly reassuring himself or trying to get a strong point across:
"They can drive you crazy. They really can" (Salinger, 73).
"I knew her like a book. I really did" (76).
There are countless other examples and it seems to me that Holden is unsure of himself. He is trying to convince the reader (and himself) about the previous statement. Its almost like he thinks the reader didn't believe him the first time he said it.
Another example of his insecurity is how he insults other people. He puts them down to build himself up. When talking about a talented pianist, Holden says, "He was putting all these dumb, show-offy ripples in the high notes, and a lot of other very tricky stuff that gives me a pain in the ass" (Salinger, 84).
I'm not sure exactly why Holden is insecure, but as the novel progresses, his complex character continues to develop.
by J.D. Salinger
pgs 53-105
Throughout the novel so far, I got the sense that Holden is very insecure. He likes to act big , tough, and confident, but his subtle word cues and actions tell a different story. For example, he constantly repeats himself, seemingly reassuring himself or trying to get a strong point across:
"They can drive you crazy. They really can" (Salinger, 73).
"I knew her like a book. I really did" (76).
There are countless other examples and it seems to me that Holden is unsure of himself. He is trying to convince the reader (and himself) about the previous statement. Its almost like he thinks the reader didn't believe him the first time he said it.
Another example of his insecurity is how he insults other people. He puts them down to build himself up. When talking about a talented pianist, Holden says, "He was putting all these dumb, show-offy ripples in the high notes, and a lot of other very tricky stuff that gives me a pain in the ass" (Salinger, 84).
I'm not sure exactly why Holden is insecure, but as the novel progresses, his complex character continues to develop.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
"Sorting Laundry"- tone
"Sorting Laundry"
by Elisavietta Ritche
This poem is full of figurative language, like the extended metaphor, which helps reveal meaning and the changing tone. The tone in the first three quarters of the poem is relaxed and happy. The speaker talks about folding clothes of herself and her significant other. The laundry descriptions show how the woman is happy and comfortable in her relationship. The relationship is long, balanced, and the man and woman accept each other.
The relaxed and happy tone changes at the end though. There is a discovery of a "strangely tailored shirt left by a former lover" (Ritchie, 842). This prompts the speaker to think about past failed relationships, then she begins to worry about her current relationship ending. "A mountain of unsorted wash could not fill up the empty side of the bed" (Ritchie, 842). This hyperbole shows how lost and lonely the speaker would be without her significant other. The tone at the end is more worried and frantic. After a second look, the reader may even notice that throughout the poem, the speaker talks about smaller and smaller clothes, symbolizing smaller and smaller details of the relationship. She slowly picks apart the relationship until she becomes frantic and thinks of worse-case scenarios.
The diminishing size of the clothing helps with the change in tone that comes along with finding the strange shirt. The tone shows how the speaker truly feels about the relationship- usually comfortable and satisfied, but scared if she thinks too much.
by Elisavietta Ritche
This poem is full of figurative language, like the extended metaphor, which helps reveal meaning and the changing tone. The tone in the first three quarters of the poem is relaxed and happy. The speaker talks about folding clothes of herself and her significant other. The laundry descriptions show how the woman is happy and comfortable in her relationship. The relationship is long, balanced, and the man and woman accept each other.
The relaxed and happy tone changes at the end though. There is a discovery of a "strangely tailored shirt left by a former lover" (Ritchie, 842). This prompts the speaker to think about past failed relationships, then she begins to worry about her current relationship ending. "A mountain of unsorted wash could not fill up the empty side of the bed" (Ritchie, 842). This hyperbole shows how lost and lonely the speaker would be without her significant other. The tone at the end is more worried and frantic. After a second look, the reader may even notice that throughout the poem, the speaker talks about smaller and smaller clothes, symbolizing smaller and smaller details of the relationship. She slowly picks apart the relationship until she becomes frantic and thinks of worse-case scenarios.
The diminishing size of the clothing helps with the change in tone that comes along with finding the strange shirt. The tone shows how the speaker truly feels about the relationship- usually comfortable and satisfied, but scared if she thinks too much.
"Batter my heart, three-personed God"- paradox
"Batter my heart, three-personed God"
by John Donne
This poem is full of paradoxes.
The speaker is a constant sinner, and wants God to make him new, free, and pure. The irony/paradox is that to make him new, the speaker wants God to "break, blow, burn [him]" (Donne, 840). The speaker says that he is "betrothed to you enemy" (Donne, 840). The basically means that the speaker is married to Satan. Yet, the speaker loves God.
The speaker wants to stop sinning, but cannot unless God imprisons and cleanses him. "Except you enthrall me, never shall I be free" (Donne, 840). This paradox is assisted by the double meaning of the word "enthrall." On one hand, enthrall means to enslave. The speaker is saying, 'Unless you enslave me, I will not be free.' On the other hand, enthrall can also mean to capture someone's attention. The speaker wants God to capture his attention. God must make an effort to keep the speaker away from sin, as opposed to the traditional method of the sinner making an effort to come back to God. The truth revealed in the paradox is that God must imprison the speaker and take his attention in order for the speaker to be free from sin.
These drastic paradoxes show the intensity of the emotion felt by the speaker. The author clearly gets the point across that drastic measure must be taken for the speaker to be pure.
by John Donne
This poem is full of paradoxes.
The speaker is a constant sinner, and wants God to make him new, free, and pure. The irony/paradox is that to make him new, the speaker wants God to "break, blow, burn [him]" (Donne, 840). The speaker says that he is "betrothed to you enemy" (Donne, 840). The basically means that the speaker is married to Satan. Yet, the speaker loves God.
The speaker wants to stop sinning, but cannot unless God imprisons and cleanses him. "Except you enthrall me, never shall I be free" (Donne, 840). This paradox is assisted by the double meaning of the word "enthrall." On one hand, enthrall means to enslave. The speaker is saying, 'Unless you enslave me, I will not be free.' On the other hand, enthrall can also mean to capture someone's attention. The speaker wants God to capture his attention. God must make an effort to keep the speaker away from sin, as opposed to the traditional method of the sinner making an effort to come back to God. The truth revealed in the paradox is that God must imprison the speaker and take his attention in order for the speaker to be free from sin.
These drastic paradoxes show the intensity of the emotion felt by the speaker. The author clearly gets the point across that drastic measure must be taken for the speaker to be pure.
"I taste a liquor never brewed"- metaphor
"I taste a liquor never brewed"
by Emily Dickinson
When I first read this poem, it reminded me of a line from a country song by Luke Bryan. The lyrics say, "I'm a little drunk on you, and high on summertime." Just like in the song, drunkenness is not being taken literally in this poem. The poem is an extended metaphor. Being drunk on liquor symbolizes the pure joy the speaker receives from nature. The title, which is also the first line of the poem, specifically tells the reader that the speaker is note actually drunk on real liquor. The liquor is "never brewed, " "Not all the Vats upon the Rhine yield such an Alcohol" (Dickinson, 797). The liquor has never been made the way all liquors have, the alcohol has never been produced from a vat. This clarifies that the liquor is not actually an intoxicating liquid. The metaphor is continued when the speaker says she is "Inebriate of Air" (Dickinson, 797).
With this extended metaphor, the author vividly displays the pure and vast joy the speaker receives from nature. Nature makes the speaker feel light and elated, like being tipsy or drunk from alcohol.
by Emily Dickinson
When I first read this poem, it reminded me of a line from a country song by Luke Bryan. The lyrics say, "I'm a little drunk on you, and high on summertime." Just like in the song, drunkenness is not being taken literally in this poem. The poem is an extended metaphor. Being drunk on liquor symbolizes the pure joy the speaker receives from nature. The title, which is also the first line of the poem, specifically tells the reader that the speaker is note actually drunk on real liquor. The liquor is "never brewed, " "Not all the Vats upon the Rhine yield such an Alcohol" (Dickinson, 797). The liquor has never been made the way all liquors have, the alcohol has never been produced from a vat. This clarifies that the liquor is not actually an intoxicating liquid. The metaphor is continued when the speaker says she is "Inebriate of Air" (Dickinson, 797).
With this extended metaphor, the author vividly displays the pure and vast joy the speaker receives from nature. Nature makes the speaker feel light and elated, like being tipsy or drunk from alcohol.
'The Convergence of the Twain"- Structure
"The Convergence of the Twain"
by Thomas Hardy
When I read that this poem is about the Titanic, a famous ship, the very first thing I noticed was that the individual stanzas look like little boats on the ocean. The first two lines are short, like a little ship, and the last line of the three-line stanza is long, like the vast waves of the ocean.
Another benefit of the two short lines and one long line deals with the subject matter discussed in the lines. Overall, the first two lines describe the beauty, vanity, and opulence of the Titanic. "...mirrors meant to glass the opulent..." "Jewels in joy designed to ravish the sensuous mind" (Hardy, 778). This rich description helps the reader picture the grandeur of the ship in its prime: A huge ship built to cater to the desires of the wealthy, exhibiting the extremes of human vanity. However, the reader will notice that the first two line are short. This is symbolic of the brief nature of human vanity, and more specifically, the short-lived journey of the Titanic. The Titanic, standing as a representation, even a quintessential example, of human vanity, sank fast. The ship and vanity did not last long. The third line, on the other hand, is long. This third line of the stanza tends to describe the ocean, or underwater life, especially in the first half of the poem. This underwater life does not have the beauty of the life above water. In fact, the scene is described in scary and repulsive terms: "The sea-worm crawls- grotesque, slimed, dumb, indifferent" (Hardy, 778). These lines are longer to symbolize the eternal state of the Titanic. The Titanic sank to the bottom of a dark ocean, where its beauty can no longer be appreciated, and for eternity, there it will stay.
The author uses structure to make a visual point, and also to show the journey of the Titanic: short-lived vanity to eternal darkness.
by Thomas Hardy
When I read that this poem is about the Titanic, a famous ship, the very first thing I noticed was that the individual stanzas look like little boats on the ocean. The first two lines are short, like a little ship, and the last line of the three-line stanza is long, like the vast waves of the ocean.Another benefit of the two short lines and one long line deals with the subject matter discussed in the lines. Overall, the first two lines describe the beauty, vanity, and opulence of the Titanic. "...mirrors meant to glass the opulent..." "Jewels in joy designed to ravish the sensuous mind" (Hardy, 778). This rich description helps the reader picture the grandeur of the ship in its prime: A huge ship built to cater to the desires of the wealthy, exhibiting the extremes of human vanity. However, the reader will notice that the first two line are short. This is symbolic of the brief nature of human vanity, and more specifically, the short-lived journey of the Titanic. The Titanic, standing as a representation, even a quintessential example, of human vanity, sank fast. The ship and vanity did not last long. The third line, on the other hand, is long. This third line of the stanza tends to describe the ocean, or underwater life, especially in the first half of the poem. This underwater life does not have the beauty of the life above water. In fact, the scene is described in scary and repulsive terms: "The sea-worm crawls- grotesque, slimed, dumb, indifferent" (Hardy, 778). These lines are longer to symbolize the eternal state of the Titanic. The Titanic sank to the bottom of a dark ocean, where its beauty can no longer be appreciated, and for eternity, there it will stay.
The author uses structure to make a visual point, and also to show the journey of the Titanic: short-lived vanity to eternal darkness.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
"To His Coy Mistress"- Motif
"To His Coy Mistress"
by Andrew Marvell
The speaker of the poem is a young man who loves a young woman and is speaking about how much time they have. Time is the motif in this poem, as it referenced many times and the change in mood/tone of the poem is based on a different perception of time. The first half of the poem talks about what the speaker would do if he had, basically, all the time in the world. He exaggerates, saying than a "hundred years should go to praise thine eyes...two hundred to adore each breast" (Marvell, 803). The speaker says that if he and the women were immortal, and youth was eternal, he could spend centuries admiring her beauty and waiting for her to return his love. As romantic as this sounds, the tone soon changes when the speaker is honest and bluntly says that, unfortunately, the lovers do not have all the time in the world. "But at my back I always hear time's winged chariot hurrying near" (804). Because they do not have much time, and both beauty and youth dwindle quickly, the speaker suggests that the lovers enjoy the moment, and enjoy each other now, before they are too old. He uses the fear of time, or time running out, to possibly convince the woman that they should, "like amorous birds of prey...at once our time devour" (804).
by Andrew Marvell
The speaker of the poem is a young man who loves a young woman and is speaking about how much time they have. Time is the motif in this poem, as it referenced many times and the change in mood/tone of the poem is based on a different perception of time. The first half of the poem talks about what the speaker would do if he had, basically, all the time in the world. He exaggerates, saying than a "hundred years should go to praise thine eyes...two hundred to adore each breast" (Marvell, 803). The speaker says that if he and the women were immortal, and youth was eternal, he could spend centuries admiring her beauty and waiting for her to return his love. As romantic as this sounds, the tone soon changes when the speaker is honest and bluntly says that, unfortunately, the lovers do not have all the time in the world. "But at my back I always hear time's winged chariot hurrying near" (804). Because they do not have much time, and both beauty and youth dwindle quickly, the speaker suggests that the lovers enjoy the moment, and enjoy each other now, before they are too old. He uses the fear of time, or time running out, to possibly convince the woman that they should, "like amorous birds of prey...at once our time devour" (804).
"Barbie Doll"- irony and satire
"Barbie Doll"
by Marge Piercy
The poem focuses on a young girl, healthy, smart, and strong, who faced criticism from her peers. This is something many people relate to, and like many girls, the subject of the poem tried desperately to change her imperfections. "She went to and fro apologizing" (Piercy, 835). "She was advised to..exercise, diet, smile, and wheedle" (836). Now the last stanza is where the girl in the poem takes the teasing farther than a normal person would. It takes the reader by total surprise: "So she cut off her nose and her legs and offered them up" (836). The girl honestly killed herself to be perfect. Not figuratively, literally. And the most ironic part is the last three lines, the ones that stood out to me the most. When the girl was lying in her coffin- "Doesn't she look pretty? everyone said. Consummation at last. To every woman a happy ending" (836). Are you kidding me!? A happy ending? Apparently the only thing that makes women happy is being seen as beautiful. This girl thought that beauty was worth death, or at least extreme pain. Consummation means perfect ending. The irony is that she killed herself for the perfect ending. The perfect/happy ending wasn't to live, it was to be beautiful, which is outrageous.
I think this poem is also a little satire of our idealized culture and the kind of teasing that people, especially teens endure. Today, we are all just compared to unrealistic images and some people become obsessed with acceptance or perfection, leading to negative results.
by Marge Piercy
The poem focuses on a young girl, healthy, smart, and strong, who faced criticism from her peers. This is something many people relate to, and like many girls, the subject of the poem tried desperately to change her imperfections. "She went to and fro apologizing" (Piercy, 835). "She was advised to..exercise, diet, smile, and wheedle" (836). Now the last stanza is where the girl in the poem takes the teasing farther than a normal person would. It takes the reader by total surprise: "So she cut off her nose and her legs and offered them up" (836). The girl honestly killed herself to be perfect. Not figuratively, literally. And the most ironic part is the last three lines, the ones that stood out to me the most. When the girl was lying in her coffin- "Doesn't she look pretty? everyone said. Consummation at last. To every woman a happy ending" (836). Are you kidding me!? A happy ending? Apparently the only thing that makes women happy is being seen as beautiful. This girl thought that beauty was worth death, or at least extreme pain. Consummation means perfect ending. The irony is that she killed herself for the perfect ending. The perfect/happy ending wasn't to live, it was to be beautiful, which is outrageous.
I think this poem is also a little satire of our idealized culture and the kind of teasing that people, especially teens endure. Today, we are all just compared to unrealistic images and some people become obsessed with acceptance or perfection, leading to negative results.
"Jury of Her Peers" -Question 2
"Jury of Her Peers"
by Susan Glaspell
The men come back downstairs and are almost finished investigating. "Then Martha Hale's eyes pointed the way to the basket in which was hidden the thing that would make certain the conviction of the other women..." (Glaspell, 425). Mrs. Wright is referred to as the other women, including her in the group with Martha and Mrs. Peters- women coming together. There seems to be a silent agreement between the two women that the bird must be hidden, the men cannot find the evidence. Mrs. Wright's crimes are judged by a "jury of her peers" and she is deemed innocent, as shown by both Mrs. Peters and Martha's actions to hide the damning evidence. The men would not have judged Mrs. Wright so kindly.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
"Hunters in the Snow" -Motivation
"Hunters in the Snow"
by Tobias Wolff
The biggest question I had when reading this story was, "Why the heck are they doing these things?" Why would Kenny almost run Tub over with his truck? Why wouldn't Frank and Kenny help Tub through the fences? Why did Kenny shoot the dog? Why did Tub shoot Kenny? Why would Frank and Tub stop for a break twice while their friend was bleeding out in the back of a freezing cold truck?
So many questions and I can only give answers to two of them. They connect, and I believe there is some irony involved as well. The two questions that can be answered, at least partially, are why did Kenny shoot the dog, and why did Tub shoot Kenny?
As the three men are coming back to the house from hunting on the farmer's land, Kenny says that he hates a post, and he shoots it. Then Kenny said, "I hate that tree," and shot the tree. Then he looks at the dog and says, "I hate that dog." Tub was completely amazed that Kenny shot the dog- "'What did he ever do to you?' Tub asked. 'He was just barking'" (Wolff, 192). At this point in the story, it seemed to everyone, the characters and the reader, that Kenny had no legitimate reason for shooting the dog. Its astounding to think that Kenny would shoot the dog just because he didn't like it or it was barking.
Tub was scared and confused and Kenny turned to him. "I hate you." Tub immediately responded and reacted by shooting Kenny in the stomach. Tub's motivation seemed simple- "He was going to shoot me but I shot him first" (Wolff, 193). Kenny said he hated things, then shot them. When Kenny said he hated Tub, Tub thought Kenny was going to shoot him. It seems slightly reasonable, but the men are friends, so Tub shouldn't have automatically assumed that Kenny was going to shoot him. And Tub's reasons for his reaction is where the irony comes in. Kenny said he hated the dog, and shot it. Tub thought Kenny shot the dog because he hated it, and would shoot Tub because Kenny hated Tub. But Tub and the reader soon learn the real reason Kenny shot the dog. "'You asked him to?' Tub said. 'You asked him to shoot your dog?'" (Wolff, 194). The dog was old and dying, and the owner didn't have a gun and loved the dog too much anyway. Kenny was doing the old man a favor. The whole basis for Tub shooting Kenny is gone.
Though those two actions have some motivation, all the other actions seem to lack true motivation, and that adds to the mystery of the story and the characterization of the characters- as emotionally messed-up, selfish bullies .
by Tobias Wolff
The biggest question I had when reading this story was, "Why the heck are they doing these things?" Why would Kenny almost run Tub over with his truck? Why wouldn't Frank and Kenny help Tub through the fences? Why did Kenny shoot the dog? Why did Tub shoot Kenny? Why would Frank and Tub stop for a break twice while their friend was bleeding out in the back of a freezing cold truck?
So many questions and I can only give answers to two of them. They connect, and I believe there is some irony involved as well. The two questions that can be answered, at least partially, are why did Kenny shoot the dog, and why did Tub shoot Kenny?
As the three men are coming back to the house from hunting on the farmer's land, Kenny says that he hates a post, and he shoots it. Then Kenny said, "I hate that tree," and shot the tree. Then he looks at the dog and says, "I hate that dog." Tub was completely amazed that Kenny shot the dog- "'What did he ever do to you?' Tub asked. 'He was just barking'" (Wolff, 192). At this point in the story, it seemed to everyone, the characters and the reader, that Kenny had no legitimate reason for shooting the dog. Its astounding to think that Kenny would shoot the dog just because he didn't like it or it was barking.
Tub was scared and confused and Kenny turned to him. "I hate you." Tub immediately responded and reacted by shooting Kenny in the stomach. Tub's motivation seemed simple- "He was going to shoot me but I shot him first" (Wolff, 193). Kenny said he hated things, then shot them. When Kenny said he hated Tub, Tub thought Kenny was going to shoot him. It seems slightly reasonable, but the men are friends, so Tub shouldn't have automatically assumed that Kenny was going to shoot him. And Tub's reasons for his reaction is where the irony comes in. Kenny said he hated the dog, and shot it. Tub thought Kenny shot the dog because he hated it, and would shoot Tub because Kenny hated Tub. But Tub and the reader soon learn the real reason Kenny shot the dog. "'You asked him to?' Tub said. 'You asked him to shoot your dog?'" (Wolff, 194). The dog was old and dying, and the owner didn't have a gun and loved the dog too much anyway. Kenny was doing the old man a favor. The whole basis for Tub shooting Kenny is gone.
Though those two actions have some motivation, all the other actions seem to lack true motivation, and that adds to the mystery of the story and the characterization of the characters- as emotionally messed-up, selfish bullies .
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Othello- Dynamic Characters
Othello, the Moor of Venice
William Shakespeare
Othello has changed dramatically since the beginning of the play. He used to be calm, collected, mature, and loving. By the end, he has turned jealous, distrusting, and murderous. Lodovico says, "O thou Othello, that wert once so good, fall'n in the practice of a damned slave, what shall be said to thee?" (V.ii.290-292)
The once good Othello was destroyed by the plotting of the evil Iago. Iago himself, not surprisingly, has sustained the same character traits through out the work, though characters' view of him changed. Iago has always been evil. And he caused the change in Othello, manipulating and using him until he kills his innocent wife, then, discovering her innocence, kills himself. No one could have predicted such a drastic change in the brave and loyal Othello.
Though Emilia is only a minor character, her change is also drastic. Initially, she was extremely quiet, and would not even defend herself against Iago. In addition, she did what he wanted almost without question. Now, with her mistress slain on the bed, and Othello telling her why, Emilia explodes. She is so incredulous that her husband was the one that started Othello's suspicions of his wife. Emilia knows how innocent Desdemona was, and she tells Othello that, along with the fact that Iago asked her to steal the handkerchief for his owns means. Emilia screams at and curses Iago: "You told a lie, an odious, damned lie, upon my soul, a lie, a wicked lie!.. Villiany, villiany, villiany! I think upon 't. I think I smell 't. Oh, villiany! I thought so then. I'll kill myself for grief. Oh, villiany, villiany!" (V.ii.179-180, 189-192). When Iago tells her to be queit, she says, "I will not charm my tongue, I am bound to speak" (V.ii.183). She changed drastically in defense of her friend, and finally recognizes Iago's evilness.
Iago is the root cause of the changes in all the dynamic characters. The changing of the characters adds to the complexity of the play and the development of the tragedy.
William Shakespeare
Othello has changed dramatically since the beginning of the play. He used to be calm, collected, mature, and loving. By the end, he has turned jealous, distrusting, and murderous. Lodovico says, "O thou Othello, that wert once so good, fall'n in the practice of a damned slave, what shall be said to thee?" (V.ii.290-292)
The once good Othello was destroyed by the plotting of the evil Iago. Iago himself, not surprisingly, has sustained the same character traits through out the work, though characters' view of him changed. Iago has always been evil. And he caused the change in Othello, manipulating and using him until he kills his innocent wife, then, discovering her innocence, kills himself. No one could have predicted such a drastic change in the brave and loyal Othello.
Though Emilia is only a minor character, her change is also drastic. Initially, she was extremely quiet, and would not even defend herself against Iago. In addition, she did what he wanted almost without question. Now, with her mistress slain on the bed, and Othello telling her why, Emilia explodes. She is so incredulous that her husband was the one that started Othello's suspicions of his wife. Emilia knows how innocent Desdemona was, and she tells Othello that, along with the fact that Iago asked her to steal the handkerchief for his owns means. Emilia screams at and curses Iago: "You told a lie, an odious, damned lie, upon my soul, a lie, a wicked lie!.. Villiany, villiany, villiany! I think upon 't. I think I smell 't. Oh, villiany! I thought so then. I'll kill myself for grief. Oh, villiany, villiany!" (V.ii.179-180, 189-192). When Iago tells her to be queit, she says, "I will not charm my tongue, I am bound to speak" (V.ii.183). She changed drastically in defense of her friend, and finally recognizes Iago's evilness.
Iago is the root cause of the changes in all the dynamic characters. The changing of the characters adds to the complexity of the play and the development of the tragedy.
Othello- Metaphor
Othello, the Moor of Venice
William Shakespeare
When talking about murdering the beautiful Desdemona, Othello compares it to a few different things. These comparisons shows how Othello still loves Desdemona, and recognizes her beauty and vitality.
"Put out the light, and then put out the light. If I quench thee, thou flaming minister, I can again thy former light restore...When I have plucked the rose, I cannot give it vital growth again. It needs must wither. I'll smell it on the tree" (V.i.7-15)
Desdemona is compared to a light and a rose. Both of these things are beautiful and enjoyable. Othello says that a candle can be relight, but once he kills Desdemona, he cannot bring her back. And once he plucks the rose, I cannot live anymore, it has no choice but to die. The last sentence is Othello appreciating Desdemona's beauty and life while she maintains it- just like he would smell a rose before he plucks it and it dies. Roses are sweet and light is warm, just like Desdemona. These comparisons show that Othello might be slightly reluctant to murder her, or at least a little saddened by it. He cries, but they are cruel tears.
Though he might regret it, and though he seems hesitant, Othello ends up killing Desdemona. Just like the beautiful rose is plucked and the bright light is extinguished.
William Shakespeare
When talking about murdering the beautiful Desdemona, Othello compares it to a few different things. These comparisons shows how Othello still loves Desdemona, and recognizes her beauty and vitality.
"Put out the light, and then put out the light. If I quench thee, thou flaming minister, I can again thy former light restore...When I have plucked the rose, I cannot give it vital growth again. It needs must wither. I'll smell it on the tree" (V.i.7-15)
Desdemona is compared to a light and a rose. Both of these things are beautiful and enjoyable. Othello says that a candle can be relight, but once he kills Desdemona, he cannot bring her back. And once he plucks the rose, I cannot live anymore, it has no choice but to die. The last sentence is Othello appreciating Desdemona's beauty and life while she maintains it- just like he would smell a rose before he plucks it and it dies. Roses are sweet and light is warm, just like Desdemona. These comparisons show that Othello might be slightly reluctant to murder her, or at least a little saddened by it. He cries, but they are cruel tears.
Though he might regret it, and though he seems hesitant, Othello ends up killing Desdemona. Just like the beautiful rose is plucked and the bright light is extinguished.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Othello- Juxtaposition/Diction
Othello, the Moor of Venice
William Shakespeare
Act IV, scene 1
Once Othello is convinced that Desdemona is having an affair with Casiso, he enraged with Cassio. "I would have him nine years a-killing" (IV.i.166). But Othello stil compliments Desdemona, because he still has feelings for her. "A fine woman! A fair woman! A sweet woman!" (IV.i.166-167). Iago tells Othello he must forget that, and Othello's feelings or expression of them seem to do a complete 180. "Aye, let her rot, and perish, and be damned tonight, for she shall not live." But then he goes back to positive diction: "Oh the world hath not a sweeter creature" (IV.i.169-171).
Iago tells Othello to cut it out, and Othello keeps switching back and forth in his feelings for Desdemona: "Hang her! I do but say what she is, so delicate with her needle, an admirable musician- oh, she will sing the savageness out of a bear- of so high and plenteous wit and invention-...And then, of so gentle a condition... I will chop her into messes" (IV.i.174-184).
These juxtaposing thoughts/words reveal the complex emotions Othello is experiencing. He loves his wofe very much, and is crushed by the thought that she would cheat on him. Othello hates Cassio and at times, seems to want Desdemona dead, but part of him still loves her. These crazy emotions will most likely allow Iago to be even more manipulative and he will be able to more easily convince Othello to take drastic measures, like killing Desdemona. Soon we shall see which of the conflicting emotions wins out... (since Othello is a trajedy, I'm going to hazard a guess that the negative emotion prevails and Desdemona ends up getting strangled in her bed...but thats just a guess.)
William Shakespeare
Act IV, scene 1
Once Othello is convinced that Desdemona is having an affair with Casiso, he enraged with Cassio. "I would have him nine years a-killing" (IV.i.166). But Othello stil compliments Desdemona, because he still has feelings for her. "A fine woman! A fair woman! A sweet woman!" (IV.i.166-167). Iago tells Othello he must forget that, and Othello's feelings or expression of them seem to do a complete 180. "Aye, let her rot, and perish, and be damned tonight, for she shall not live." But then he goes back to positive diction: "Oh the world hath not a sweeter creature" (IV.i.169-171).
Iago tells Othello to cut it out, and Othello keeps switching back and forth in his feelings for Desdemona: "Hang her! I do but say what she is, so delicate with her needle, an admirable musician- oh, she will sing the savageness out of a bear- of so high and plenteous wit and invention-...And then, of so gentle a condition... I will chop her into messes" (IV.i.174-184).
These juxtaposing thoughts/words reveal the complex emotions Othello is experiencing. He loves his wofe very much, and is crushed by the thought that she would cheat on him. Othello hates Cassio and at times, seems to want Desdemona dead, but part of him still loves her. These crazy emotions will most likely allow Iago to be even more manipulative and he will be able to more easily convince Othello to take drastic measures, like killing Desdemona. Soon we shall see which of the conflicting emotions wins out... (since Othello is a trajedy, I'm going to hazard a guess that the negative emotion prevails and Desdemona ends up getting strangled in her bed...but thats just a guess.)
Othello- Symbol
Othello, the Moore of Venice
William Shakespeare
The handkerchief was first mentioned early in the play, and Othello later tells Iago why it is so important. It has a history in his family. Iago had told Othello that he saw Cassio with the handkerchief, and that was proof that Cassio and Desdemona have a relationship.
Iago mentions the handkerchief again at the beginning of Act IV. He tells Othello that if he, Iago, gives his wife something, like a handkerchief, it is hers to give away. Iago is trying to manipulate and anger Othello. Speaking of the handkerchief, Iago says, "Why, then, 'tis hers, my lord, and being hers, she may, I think, bestow't on any man." Othello replies, "She is protectoress of her honor too. May she give that?" (IV.i.12-15). Othello is reiterating the importance of the handkerchief and compares Desdemona's giving it away to giving away her honor. The handkerchief is very important to Othello and if he finds that another man has it, he will be furious.
When Iago brings up the handkerchief again, Othello says, "By Heavan, I would most gladly have forgot it. Thou said'st- oh it comes o'er my memory, as doth the raven o'er the infected house boding to all- he had my handkerchief" (IV.i.19-22). Here the handkerchief is compared to an evil omen. It will bring evil tidings to all (foreshadowing?). Othello is convinced that Cassio has the handkerchief, and therefore believes that Cassio is in a relationship with Desdemona.
Later in the first scene, Bianca storms in and yells about the handkerchief found in Cassio's house. It was Desdemona's. Iago suggests to Othello that Desdemona gave it Cassion, who then gave it to his whore. Othello is so hurt that he wants Desdemona dead
Just like with Othello's parents, the husband will no longer love the wife if she looses the handkerchief.
The prophecy has come true.
William Shakespeare
The handkerchief was first mentioned early in the play, and Othello later tells Iago why it is so important. It has a history in his family. Iago had told Othello that he saw Cassio with the handkerchief, and that was proof that Cassio and Desdemona have a relationship.
Iago mentions the handkerchief again at the beginning of Act IV. He tells Othello that if he, Iago, gives his wife something, like a handkerchief, it is hers to give away. Iago is trying to manipulate and anger Othello. Speaking of the handkerchief, Iago says, "Why, then, 'tis hers, my lord, and being hers, she may, I think, bestow't on any man." Othello replies, "She is protectoress of her honor too. May she give that?" (IV.i.12-15). Othello is reiterating the importance of the handkerchief and compares Desdemona's giving it away to giving away her honor. The handkerchief is very important to Othello and if he finds that another man has it, he will be furious.
When Iago brings up the handkerchief again, Othello says, "By Heavan, I would most gladly have forgot it. Thou said'st- oh it comes o'er my memory, as doth the raven o'er the infected house boding to all- he had my handkerchief" (IV.i.19-22). Here the handkerchief is compared to an evil omen. It will bring evil tidings to all (foreshadowing?). Othello is convinced that Cassio has the handkerchief, and therefore believes that Cassio is in a relationship with Desdemona.
Later in the first scene, Bianca storms in and yells about the handkerchief found in Cassio's house. It was Desdemona's. Iago suggests to Othello that Desdemona gave it Cassion, who then gave it to his whore. Othello is so hurt that he wants Desdemona dead
Just like with Othello's parents, the husband will no longer love the wife if she looses the handkerchief.
The prophecy has come true.
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