Journal #12

The conflicting idea of ugly vs pretty is seen through Antigone and Ismene. In the beginning, the chorus describes Ismene as more beautiful than Antigone. Not only are their looks in contrast of ugly vs pretty, but their situations could also be seen as ugly or pretty. Antigone is in an ugly situation, faced with the possibility of death due to her adamant belief that her brother must be buried. She also has some doubts about Haemon loving her, knowing that Ismene is the girl that most people thought Haemon would marry. Ismene is not exactly in a pretty situation, but it is better than Antigone's situation. Ismene is simply in her place trying to avoid any type of conflict. When talking to Creon, Antigone goes on to talk about becoming beautiful. She claims her father was ugly as well but became beautiful at the end when all of his questions had been answered. When there was no doubt and everything was certain, her father became beautiful. It seems Antigone thinks death will make her beautiful, when there is no hope left. I think Anouilh creates this tension to show how unafraid Antigone is of death. She will do whatever it takes to fulfill her desires, even if it means dying. It seems Antigone does not fear death, but almost looks at it as a way of becoming beautiful.

Journal #11

In the beginning of the play, the chorus took the role of giving background information to the characters. Information about what has happened in the past was given. This information is important to know what is currently happening and why it is happening. Now, the chorus doesn't really talk about the characters or the plot itself, but rather about the concept and the characteristics of tragedy. The elements of a tragedy are explained, describing it as "clean, it is restful, it is flawless" with no hope. In commenting on the tragic elements of the play, the chorus relates it to other things and uses many examples. At first, a coiled spring is used as a metaphor to describe tragedy. Then, a machine and the example of "an executioner's ax goes up at the end of the act" are used. These objects and examples are used to help the readers understand tragedy the way the chorus wants them to. The author seems to use an authoritative or absolute tone. The chorus describes tragedy in a way that makes it seem that there is no other kind of tragedy and this is it. It seems the chorus is saying what I am telling you is tragedy. I saw this when the chorus says stuff like "that, you cannot do" or "that is vulgar; it's practical" (24).

Journal #10

Events in the past 48 hours include a conflict between the two brothers Eteocles and Polynices. After Oedipus died, the two brothers were to switch off as king, but Eteocles refused to give up the throne after his first year. As a result, conflict arises with Polynices bringing in foreign forces to take his year as king. The two brothers fight and both die. Creon, their uncle and Oedipus' brother, becomes king and orders Polynices to not receive a proper burial, since he appeared to be a traitor. It is ordered that his body is to rot and be eaten by vultures and dogs. Creon's order causes Antigone to feel threatened in her wish to give her brother a proper burial. Nonetheless, Antigone successfully and secretly buries her brother, bringing her the fear of death since she defied the king's order. That same night, the nurse catches Antigone sneaking back into the house.

The previous events are explained by the chorus giving background information to some of the characters. The structure of this play is different than the other plays we have read. The action in the play actually starts with Antigone sneaking into her house, but events in the past are crucial to understand what is going on. The chorus explains the history of some of the characters, giving the reader information that eliminates the need to make inferences to what has happened. We are given a specific outlook to the characters. The chorus also hints at some of the possible future events, such as Antigone dying. By the chorus doing this, it gives the reader to expect something. With the reader expecting a certain outcome, it creates the possibility of surprise. When certain expectations do happen the way we expect them to, surprise is placed instead. With my experience with tragedies so far, surprises seem to be a popular technique. I think this structure Anouilh uses effectively helps set up for the events that are to happen later in the play.

Topic Sentence

In Federico Garcia Lorca's "Blood Wedding", Mother strongly believes that people should follow their proper societal role, but displays her hypocritical nature when she breaks out of her quiet, submissive role of a woman and speaks her mind of the murder of her husband and son.

Journal #9

Deceit / the altering of truth
I think the biggest deceit in the play would be the bride and her actions. She promises the bridegroom to be a loyal wife, yet she ends up running away with Leonardo, deceiving everyone. She made herself appear like any typical bride, but truly ends up becoming controversial through her actions. Another instance of deceit may be when Leonardo lies to his family about him traveling to the bride's home on the horse. He claims it was not him who was traveling out in the wasteland, when in truth it was him making secret visits to the Bride.

Following proper roles
Because of mother's tragic past, she shows many instances where she wishes people would simply follow their societal role. This can be seen with her wish for a daughter or granddaughter, a child that would just stay at home, not exposed to the dangers of the outside world. She also teaches her son how to be a proper husband. She tells him to "be affectionate" or to "caress her in a way that will hurt her a bit" (74). It seems like her thinking is that if everyone just followed what they were supposed to do, everything would be fine. There are other characters who also show this, such as the neighbor. In the first act first scene, the neighbor talks to the mother about how their sons are best sleeping and not in danger. Their are certain proper roles that many characters see as important to follow.

Items show wealth, but wealth doesn't show happiness
Before the wedding, the bride is given some gifts that display the wealth of the Bridegroom family. The laces and stockings were described as very high quality items that are worth quite a bit. Also, seeing that the mother tells the bridegroom to buy three tuxedos, their family appears to be quite wealthy. However, the mother, even with all this wealth, is never fully happy in the play. With the great gifts that the bride receives, she isn't very happy either. She doesn't want to show the maid the gifts she received and when she gets her orange blossoms, she throws them on the ground. While the wealth through gifts is shown, the bride never really shows happiness with them.

Journal #8

The set and atmosphere seem to follow a bell-shaped curve with the wedding at the very point. The set starts off fairly bright with not too much chaos yet. The very first set has the room simply painted yellow, showing the slight lightness of the atmosphere. There are hints of the dangers ahead with talk about the knife and the Felix family, but the overall atmosphere is bright because of the overlying wedding that is ahead. Because weddings are extravagant ceremonies filled with great emotions, the atmosphere is cheerful and light, until the bride goes missing and the curve starts its drop. Whenever the set changes to preparation for the wedding or talk of the wedding, it is usually happy with gifts and beautifying preparations. However, again there is a hint of something bad happening later with the bride being unhappy and gloomy about the wedding. The very last sets are very gloomy and dark, especially when it takes place in the forest. It is night time and the addition of the beggar woman makes the atmosphere even more dark. The additions of these gloomy characteristics makes the current conflict seem even darker and cruel. The very last scene has a set of "the monumental feeling of a church" with "shining white" floors, making it seem like things could get happier. However, there is a contrast created through the including of both young girls and the beggar woman in the same scene. I think this ties up all that has happened, the happy moments and the sad ones, ultimately creating an atmosphere that is slightly confusing and conflicting.

Journal #7

I think the youth in the play is included to show the innocence within them. Many of the them, such as the girls, are talking about how the "bride is awakening" and everything (the bride, setting, situation, etc.) looks so beautiful with flowers everywhere. Seeing them singing or talking in a poetic manner, along with being in a happy mood, we can see that these young people are expecting the ideal outcome that society has created. The bride stays in love with the bridegroom and they live happily ever after. However, knowing what eventually happens, we see that everything did not happen as expected. The youth creates the high expectancy of an ideal outcome, making the reader want to believe it as well. Later, during the ceremony, the young girls talk to the bride and while the girls are excited about the pin and marriage, the bride, referring to marriage, says "This step is one that costs you dearly" (69). Also, because they are young, they may not have experienced many of the tragic experiences many of the other characters have experienced. Some of the characters, such as the bride, seem to have a dark, gloomy outlook on life, but these young people are shown as very happy and lively, putting them in stark contrast.

Journal #6

The Bride seems to be a character that appears to be miserable. She shows a very negative attitude towards her wedding and even women in general. While talking to the maid, the bride talks about how "we women all waste away" (39). To me, the bride seems to dislike the proper image or role of women. When she says stuff like "And see no other eyes but yours. And have you hold me so tight that even if my dead mother called to me I couldn't pull myself away from you" (55), I get the feeling she just says it because that is what society expects from her. The standards of society stop her from getting what she truly wants, which I am not too sure what it is she wants. Maybe it could be someone who she truly loves, seeing that she runs away with Leonardo. She does not want to be seen as controversial though. When it comes to the wedding, she disapproves of the maid talking about it. When the maid says "You are so lucky! You're going to hold a man in your arms. You're going to kiss him. You're going to feel his weight" (40), she responds with an angry "Be quiet!" (40). As the maid continues to talk about the wedding and refuses to stay quiet, the bride just gets angrier and angrier. Talk about the wedding infuriates her. This conversation reminded me of the conversation early in the book between the bridegroom and his mother, when the mother would keep talking about the dangers of a knife despite her son's demand to stop.

Journal #5

Lorca seems to use the archetype of a woman through the wife and mother-in-law. In scene two, while the wife is talking to Leonardo, the wife asks him, "Would you like some lemonade?" (21). The placing of this question is a little bit weird. They are conversing and kind of randomly, she asks Leonardo if he would like some lemonade. The concept shown here is the wife serving the husband. It is the duty of the wife to serve their husbands and be loyal. By establishing this idea, later when Leonardo runs away with the bride, the scandal is even more controversial now that she is a wife. This is seen again when Leonardo suddenly becomes angry after the girl comes to deliver the message about the bridegroom and his mother. As the wife persistently begs for Leonardo to tell her what's wrong, Leonardo refuses to tell her anything, simply telling her to "Get away!" and "Leave me alone" (25). The mother-in-law's response to this is "(Resolutely, to her daughter) Sssh!" (26). In this situation, the mother-in-law is teaching the wife, her daughter, to be an obedient wife. She must listen to what her husband tells her to do and not enrage him or annoy him. I think this is significant because it is the mother teaching this idea to her daughter. Passing down the "proper" principles for women to stay inferior and submissive is shown in this situation. Ultimately, I think Lorca rejects this archetype. With the bride running off with Leonardo during the wedding ceremony (and not many days or years after), the role of the woman or wife is completely absent and destroyed. Also, knowing that Lorca had some conflicts because of his sexuality, it would be possible that he does not like the idea of archetypes.

Journal #4

The knife is a symbol that is introduced early in scene I. When the mother talks about the knife and how it can bring misfortune to man, the bridegroom consistently begs his mother to stop the rant. However, despite his efforts, the mother continues to denounce the knife. The mother shows an open fear and hatred of the knife. The bridegroom seems to show a different hatred for the knife. He doesn't like that his mother is talking about it and wishes to change the subject. I think it may be that he sees how much sadness and fear the knife brings to the mother and wishes her to avoid the knife and the fear it brings. It seems to be an act of care. The knife also connects the play with the past and the deaths of the bridegroom's father and brother. It introduces the mother's hatred toward the Felixes and the past feud in the families.

Plants were another symbol that I noticed. Flowers were mentioned in describing people such as the "two men who were like two geraniums" (7). Flowers have an image of young, fresh, and beautiful, so by describing people in this way, a certain image is created. I associated plants with the vineyard as well. The vineyard seems like a strong representation of a new life. The bridegroom was finally able to purchase it and it allowed him to get married. In a time where the bridegroom is about to get married, many changes are happening and a new life is waiting. I also noticed that some plants that aren't all that great are mentioned as well. Plants like weeds, vines, and thistles are used. This can show that there are negative sides to things, such as life. Life can be a geranium that is beautiful, but then could eventually die with weeds and vines taking over. With death present in the play, I think it is appropriate that these harmful plants are used as well.

Journal #3

I think the blame for the events happening can't be put on a single character. Many of the main characters of the play each carry some of the blame, even Hedvig who is the victim of all this chaos. I think the whole conflict can be traced back to Gina. If Gina had confronted Hjalmar about her past and made sure everything was clear about who the father of Hedvig was, this conflict would either not have started or would have taken place in a softer manner with the absence of Hedvig. Looking back even further, if Gina had not had any relationship with Werle, none of this would happen. After all, the only reason Gina got married to Hjalmar was to cover up the scandal between Gina and Werle. Gregers can also take some of the blame as well. It isn't until he enters town that things in the Ekdal family start to shake. It is easiest to see when you picture the story without Gregers. Eventually, the truth may find its way out, but Gregers heavily sped up the process. The deep lies from the past were brought up, causing Hjalmar to feel betrayed and to leave the family. If Gregers never entered the story, things may have continued to look fine on the outside, and the lies from the past would stay hidden. Hjalmar's reaction to all this revelation may have also contributed to the death of Hedvig. Hedvig takes Hjalmar's reactions very seriously, devastated at the thought that her "father" no longer loves her. I think that although Hjalmar has some blame, it is less than what Gina or Gregers has. I think Hedvig has the least amount of guilt. She really did not do anything and had no control of being brought into the world in a complicated situation. However, her action of killing herself is the ultimate action of the conflict. Looking beyond the connection of Hedvig being the Wild Duck, it is confusing as to why she killed herself.

Journal #2

I think Ibsen uses the motif of decay, disease, and illness to show the deterioration of the temporary safety or cover a lie creates. Lying can get you out of a sticky situation, but Ibsen shows that this safety or cover inevitably deteriorates as time goes on. The lie in this case is Gina's lie about her past and Hedvig. In many cases, there is a disease or illness within characters. For example, when Hjalmar is talking to Gregers about Hedvig, he mentions that "there's the gravest imminent danger of her losing her sight" (147). With the fact that Werle also having fading eyesight already established, this new information chips away at the "wall of safety" and partially reveals a possible hereditary connection between Hedvig and Werle. When this connection is revealed in the end, the cover that Gina's lie created is gone and the truth is out. The motif shows that the temporary safety a lie creates can also decay in a way eyesight does in the play. Another instance of decay or illness is seen when Relling claims that Gregers is "suffering from an acute case of moralistic fever" (178). Because Gregers plays a major role in the truth being revealed, his "fever" helps reveal the truth that Gina has kept hidden. I think Relling is trying to explain that Gregers may be trying to be morally just by bringing the Ekdal family up from the scandal from the past, but instead the fever has caused the opposite. The family starts to fall apart. When Werle says that Gregers looks at him with "his mothers eyes- which were clouded at times" (135) it is almost as if Gregers' eyes have an illness as well. These clouded eyes always look at Werle in a negative light, which contributes to the revealing of the truth as well. If Werle was looked at in a positive light, there would not be much suspicion. By placing Werle in a negative light, the readers are able to see that there could be some conflict involved with Werle. The lie that involves Gina also involves Werle as well, so this also helps tear down the lie. Overall, this motif of decay, disease, and illness is used to show the deterioration of the temporary cover a lie creates.

Journal #1

Ibsen creates many physical boundaries within the characters. I think this is most clearly seen through the motif of decay or dying away. Both Hedvig and Werle have the physical boundary of fading eyesight. This adds to the motif of decay but also shows the boundary Ibsen creates. By giving them both the same boundary, it is interesting to look at how the other characters respond or react to the same physical boundary. While not much is mentioned about Werle and his eyesight, Hedvig receives much sympathy and care from her parents and even Gregers appears to be interested. Old age can also be seen as a physical boundary. This also adds to the motif of decay and dying away as seen by Ekdal and his diminishing life. Another physical boundary is created through the motif of alcohol. With the consumption of alcohol, a physical and mental boundary is created. From Ekdal to the less important character of Molvik, alcohol is present in many scenes. Alcohol creates a dazed state of mind and alters physical coordination, but I don't see much criticism of the use of alcohol. It is so common that in the eyes of the characters, it probably wouldn't be seen as a boundary.

Journal #3

A different motif seen in the last third of the book. The motif that I previously wrote about is almost gone now. However, the clearness is back. I found the narration less confusing than the second third, but glass isn't mentioned or seen as much. Glass does play an important role at the end with the Bell Jar though. One motif I noticed was laughter. I don't remember seeing anything about laughter until the last third of the book. It can first be seen with I-330 laughing at D-503. While talking, I-330 "burst out laughing, loudly - too loudly. Quickly, in a second, she laughed herself up to some sort of edge - and stepped back, stepped down" (162). I feel like this laughter completely kills the mood. It is very unexpected and almost strange. I think this instance shows the relationship between the two. D-503 has strong feelings for I-330, but I-330 seems to simply use him for the resistance, able to laugh at his thoughts. Another instance of laughter is seen during U's encounter with D after he develops a deep hatred for U for exposing the contents of his journals. In a very intense moment where D has a clear intention of murdering U, laughter kills the mood once again when U misinterprets D's actions. D describes the situation as "so unexpected, so stupid, that I burst into laughter" (184). The last laughter I saw was during D's talk with S. D reveals all that he knows about the resistance only to find out S is a part of the group. All these laughter moments happen during a scene that is quite intense. It really does change the mood of the scene.

Much of the setting is reflected through the weather. It seems the weather is not as sunny or clear as it was in the previous two thirds of the book. I remember reading about the clear blue sky early in the book and how the people really like the spotless, clear sky. Now, images of the wind and cloud are repeatedly seen. I think this is used to show the change that the One State is going through. Before with the clear sky, everything was in order and control was still maintained. The government even had control over the weather. Now, turmoil is slowly accompanying the wind and clouds. It seems D-503 is no longer the only one with an imagination. People are refusing to receive the Operation and the Green Wall has been torn down. All this chaos came along with the change in weather. Nature is now a part of the One State with birds inhibiting the One State. The setting itself does not change much. Much takes place in the One State with a few instances at the Ancient House or outer space when the Integral is launched.

The language, as seen in the second third, does not use much mathematical words anymore. I do see a greater increase in the use of figurative language though. When describing I-330's laughter, he says "she laughed with sparks and joyful flame-tongues in her eyes" (145). This use of figurative language shows the change that D-503 has gone through. Not everything is straight forward like it was with math. With figurative language, there is more room for interpretation, using imagination and creativity in thinking. However, the use of math words is not completely absent. It still appears occasionally, possibly showing the rational, math side of D-503 that will never be absent. He describes his neighbor as having "an enormous yellow parabola for a forehead. Wrinkles on the forehead: a row of yellow illegible lines" (183). He uses math terms to describe his old neighbor. Maybe he only uses this old concept of math words to describe old people and things. At the very end though, after D-503 has received the operation, he concludes by saying "More than that: I know we will win. Because reason should win" (203). It seems the Operation has caused him to finish the full 360 degree turn in his thinking. I think it would be safe to predict that his language will gradually return to math and science terms.

Journal #2

The motif of glass and clearness that I previously wrote about is not as apparent in the second third of the book. In fact, there seems to be a shift in clearness to confusion. Glass is not talked about as much as it was in the first third of the book. Everything is not as clear as it used to be now that D-503 has developed a "soul" and a love for I-330. For example, before D-503 enters the corridors for the second time, he was unsure if he actually did enter them or if he was imagining them. During that experience, he was "scratched by a rough wall [...] There was blood on my finger and it was clear that all this was not a game of my sick imagination" (86). He seems to be sure that it actually happened, but later he writes "the Second Builder assured me that he himself had seen me accidentally touch the polishing wheel with these fingers-and that was the whole reason for it" (88). There are two conflicting ideas as to how his fingers were scratched, adding on to the confusion of the experience. Along with that idea, he thought he was dead for a short time before waking up in the darkness. There is little certainty in what is going on. This all adds to the motif of confusion that is presented, replacing the clearness that was previously keeping D-503 together and properly functioning.

A key setting in the second third of the book is the Ancient House. In the first third, all we knew about this "museum" was that it displayed the savage, primitive life of the Ancients. Through the Ancient House, we learn more about the society and the other societies outside the Green Wall. This Ancient House shows some fallacies and holes in the One State. Some of the civilians are secretly working to bring down the Green Wall. The Guardians that are said to be closely watching the people have not caught these people, showing the imperfect system. Also, during the scene when D-503 is with I-330 in the meeting place, we see an outside society. At first, D-503 is confused as to who they are but comes to the conclusion that "by the looks of them, they were people" (136). These people do not have clothes but are covered with fur. D-503 is in a completely new world and even has trouble walking on the ground that is "not level under my feet" (136). This shows how closed of a society the One State is. The civilians like D-503 are completely unaware of the outside world besides the idea that they are superior to the outside driven into them through propaganda.

The use of mathematical expressions in the language that I previously wrote about seems to have changed as well. I still see it here and there, but it is not as common and apparent. I first noticed this when D-503 describes the two doctors in the Bureau of Medicine. He describes the first as "shortish, with cinder-block legs, and his eyes, like horns, tossed up the patients" (79) and the second as "skinny and sparkling with scissor-lips and a blade for a nose" (79). I asked myself why D-503 did not use some mathematical descriptions to describe the doctors like he normally would. In the first third of the book, mathematical expressions were constantly used to describe things. Now, it is becoming less apparent. I think this could show a change in D-503 or maybe the society itself. Things are not as clear and definite as I previously associated with the math language. D-503 is confused with his "soul" and imagination. Confusion is further added through D-503 constantly cutting off what he was talking about. Frequently he never finishes his thought. For example, he says "But why do I, why do I-" (94). This language manipulation also adds to the confusion seen in D-503 and society.

Journal #1

One motif I noticed was glass and the idea of clearness. Almost everything in the society is made of glass. The walls and furniture are made of glass, and even the city is enclosed in a glass dome. The society is set up this way so that the government and the police can monitor and supervise the civilians. They can look into homes and easily watch the actions of the people. This motif of glass and clearness puts a strong emphasis on the amount of control exerted by the government. It shows just how much the government is able to control the civilians and their actions. Knowing that they are being watched, the civilians are forced to act in favor of the government. However, the people are so accustomed to this glass that they like it and are not bothered by it. In fact, they seem to almost need it. In record seven, D-503 writes that "the glass of the walls was sparkling, the glass chair and table, too. All this was calming; my heart ceased to pound" (30). The glass is calming and this clearness appeals to D-503. It was also explained that the civilians "live in full view, [...] in among our transparent walls, [...] We have nothing to hide from one another" (19). This shows that the society has been conditioned far enough that its members would have nothing to hide and be afraid of. This makes the job of the secret police and Bureau of Guardians much easier.

The setting takes place in the future in a society called the One State. Many times, D-503 mentions the past and refers to it as ancient. Whenever D-503 mentions the past, a criticism of it usually follows. This portrays the idea that their society thinks that their time is better than the past. As the reader, I see that their society is actually quite horrible, which shows that the people are blinded and forced to think they live in a perfect society. I find it interesting that D-503 is aware that he is writing to the past. This doesn't quite logically make sense to me, but maybe it makes sense to D-503, adding on to the idea of their superiority over our time. The setting also takes place during the building of the Integral. The Integral is a spaceship that will go around to other societies to conquer them. The One State believes they have the right to do this because they see themselves as superior. The government is forcing people to create works of art, such as poetry, to show how great the One State is. These works will board the Integral when it takes off. This shows that the One State believes they are the most superior, and the civilians are forced to think that way as well.

The language has many mathematical expressions. I think this is done to show that the society likes clear, exact concepts. Math, in contrast to a subject like English, has little to no breathing room in its answers. This creates an absolute answer to the problems. This type of language would show that the society is ruled by single answers and beliefs. There is no room for them to think their own thoughts and have their own opinions. All that matters is what the One State wants you to believe. For example, D-503 describe the life in the One State as "the mathematically perfect life of the One State" (4). The life is perfect because it is mathematical, meaning it is definite, clear, and absolute. This kind of lifestyle appeals to the people greatly. In contrast, when something like the piano, an instrument of the past, is shown, it is described as "wild, disorgranized, crazy multicolor of tones and shapes" (25). It is not ordered and even, which means it is unacceptable. Through the mathematical language used, it shows the One State likes definite, clear control and concepts.

Journal #5

Lee Philosophy

Always give it your best. As long as you gave it your best and put your effort in, it does not matter whether you succeeded or failed. You should always look to give your full effort in whatever you do. Why do it if you're not going to give it your best? There have been many times where I failed but was happy with myself because I gave it my best shot. At times where I put little effort in, I knew I could not expect much out of the experience and overall made that experience almost worthless and a waste of time.

Be open-minded. Everyone comes from a different background and has different experiences. Don't think your world is the only world and everyone else's revolves around it. Understand that not everyone thinks like you and look to understand others' view. Having a broad perspective will allow you to understand the world better. As a minority, I live in two different worlds where I must understand both sides. While those two worlds may be dominant in my life, I must realize there are many other worlds out there for me to see. This has helped me to understand my community and the different cultures of the world.

Look to help others. Helping others can help you. You learn that there are people not as fortunate or privileged as you. You have values and experiences that can help others that have not yet learned. However, that does not make you superior. It is a mutual relationship where those that may seem below you have important experiences to share with you as well. As a frequent volunteer, I enjoy helping the community and have found that help will always be wanted. I have skills and abilities that I can offer to help others.

Respect yourself and have pride. Be proud of yourself and your accomplishments. Don't constantly think about your past failures, but rather look to the present and future. Respect yourself by taking care of yourself and doing what is best for you. Make yourself believe that you matter and have an importance in the world. However, understand that there should be a limit to these. Do not become full of vain and respect others while you respect yourself.

Don't let criticism rule you. People will judge you but don't let that affect the way you live life. The natural inclination may be to fit in and be like everyone else, but having a uniqueness is important. As long as you enjoy the way you live, it shouldn't matter whether or not it's what the majority is doing. What the majority is doing may not always be the right thing to do.

Enjoy the present. While thinking and preparing for the future is a shrewd thing to do, make sure it is not ruining the present. If you are always living for the future, how will you know when that "future" has been reached? Without knowing it, you may constantly live for the future until you reach the point where life can be hard to enjoy as an old person. My experience with IB has shown me that the present may be difficult, but the future will be rewarding. However, I try to make the most out of my high school experience despite the difficulties with IB.

Take advantage of opportunities. There are countless opportunities in this world. These opportunities can have a great impact on your life and can help you in many ways. Take the opportunity and don't be afraid to try something new or different. Once it goes by, you never know if it will come back or not. School and education is a great opportunity for us. As something not everyone freely receives, we should take advantage of it and make the most out of it.

Journal #4

#4 What conclusions does Mersault come to at the end of the novel. Does Camus want the reader to come to the same conclusions?

At the end of the novel, Meursault comes to the conclusion that nothing really matters and it is up to the individual to do as he or she pleases. Much of his thoughts are seen during his final meeting with the chaplain. Since everyone eventually dies, when and how does not matter. He spurts out a series of questions asking their importance but comes to the conclusion that none of it really mattered. When told that everyone in his position had turned to God before being executed, he acknowledges the fact but refuses to conform to the common decision. He simply does not care about what others think and only sees his beliefs as the right choice. He claims he does not have the time to interest himself in what does not interest him, showing the concept of the individual.
I think Camus does not really care whether the same conclusions are reached but rather that people and society are aware and able to acknowledge these beliefs. As it appears in the novel, many of the ideas presented are not accepted by society but Camus holds onto these ideas through Meursault. Even when faced with death, the questions of whether there is meaning is brought up, showing the strong hold on the beliefs.

Journal #3

I think Camus divided the novel into two parts to show a change in Meursault, especially after a dramatic event. This was similar in the way the novel opened up with his mother's death, an event that would have had a strong impact on most people. The event in part one did not have that strong of an impact on him and he even says, "It occurred to me [...] that Maman was buried now, [...] and that, really, nothing had changed" (24). He was not very concerned and was apathetic to the events in his life. However, he seemed to be very observant of his surroundings as seen when he observes the community from his balcony. In part two, he is still observant to his surroundings, but is forced to think about what he truly thinks and feels. He is constantly interrogated and forced to answer the questions that were never asked to him before. He seemed to admit that he did not feel much grief when his mother died and when asked if he was sorry for what he had done, he answered with, "more than sorry I felt kind of annoyed" (70). While still an apathetic tone is felt, he is thinking about his thinking and feelings, something not seen in part one.
In part two, many of the same ideas are still present. Light, sun, and heat are still placed on him and overwhelming him. In jail, sleep becomes most of his activity, taking up "sixteen to eighteen hours a day" (79). Both parts also have the idea of guilt, or the lack of guilt. In part one, Meursault felt guilty for something that wasn't necessarily his fault. His mother's death caused him guilt with him having to miss work and asking his boss for days off. He is inclined to say "It's not my fault" constantly to justify his actions. Also, he received guilt from having to place his mother in the old people's home, something that he could not help but do. However, in part two, he doesn't show guilt for something that actually was his fault. The murder was because of his actions and he doesn't show guilt for something he caused.

Journal #2

I think Camus decided to use a first person point of view to keep the focus on Meursault and his thoughts only. This forces the reader to learn much about Meursault by only seeing out of his eyes. We are able to see his thought process and are presented with another way of characterization of Meursault. Using a third person omniscient would mean the narrator knows every thought of every character, creating a definite, solid, or concrete mood. Everything said by the narrator would have a definite meaning and truth. This sounds like it would contradict the idea of existentialism, giving meaning and solidness to what is happening and said. Camus created a character with existential ideas and used first person point of view to further develop and show that existential idea.

Journal #1

Marie comes in as a character that Meursault had known from the past from work. This gives some background information to Meursault. He explains there may have been some love between them, showing an instance where he was aware of his feelings. However, when he is later asked whether he loves her or wants to marry her, he is unsure and does not really care, saying it is up to her. Meursault describes her as beautiful, admiring her physical features. He enjoys spending time with her and they interact as a couple. The day after the funeral, he takes her out. Through Marie, Camus reveals more about Meursault and what he possibly values in love and companionship, or whether he cares about love or not.

Salamano is Meursault's neighbor who lives with a dog. He constantly beats the dog and curses at it. He is described as a grumpy, old man. While not exactly a foil to Meursault, he produces similar effects. After Salamano loses his dog, he is emotionally affected and his attitude changes quite a bit. On the other hand, Meursault did not change at all and even states, "nothing  had changed" (24). There is a great contrast in the effect of death on the two characters. Salamano appeared as a friendly man when he conversed with Meursault. They were able to talk in a friendly manner with Meursault giving him advice and Salamano returning condolences for the death of Maman. Camus shows the different effects of death through Salamano.

The lady who Meursault meets at Celeste's is very organized and seems to live in a systematic style. She lives with a purpose and knows what she is doing. Meursault carefully observes her, noticing her peculiar actions. She orders "her whole meal all at once, in a voice that was clear and very fast" (43), adds up her bill in advance, and checks off every radio program from a magazine. Her motions are described as "robotlike", showing her meticulous lifestyle and thinking process. Camus may use this woman to show this concept of being a "stranger". People may be fascinated with another, such as people were with Meursault and the death of his mother, and then soon forget the person. Meursault is intrigued by this woman and even attempts to follow her, but he "forgot about her a few minutes later" (44).

Journal #8

1. I think Zora Neale Hurston chose this title to incorporate religious aspects into the novel. The title itself hints at possible religious elements inside the plot and the reader is able to point them out easily. The emphasis on religion also creates a focus on God and some sort of high power which is seen throughout the book. It can also bring in a strong allusion to the bible. By using a quote from the book, it gives significance to the passage. The title of the book was placed in the scene of the hurricane, which has great power and force on the people like God does. This alters the reading by placing an overall religious atmosphere on the book.

2. An alternate title could have been something like The Horizon. This title would place a greater significance on the horizon that is mentioned throughout the book. Even in the first page it is mentioned, which would cause the reader to think the horizon is going to play an important role. At the end, Janie mentions pulling in her horizon, showing the importance of it to her and how she has reached it. The horizon is somewhat abstract in the way it is used and would create many different interpretations of the significance of it.

3. The title of my pastiche is "New York Train". I chose this title because both New York and the train are ways for my character to escape oppression. New York is the place for freedom and the train will be the method to get there. I think this is the strongest possible title because oppression is key to my theme and the title includes the elements of escaping that oppression.

Journal #7

Parallel Structure

 “Tea Cake and Janie gone hunting. Tea Cake and Janie gone to Orlando to the movies. Tea Cake and Janie gone to a dance.” (110)

This parallel structure that repeats "Tea Cake and Janie" highlights the two being together. They have been seen constantly together and the repetition emphasizes that they do everything together. As seen from the community's point of view, there is also a slight cynical tone. They do not approve of Janie being with Tea Cake so often. In the same passage, sympathy is shown towards Joe Starks to further show the contempt shown towards Janie.

Personification

“the monster began to roll in his bed.” (158)

The monster, which is the hurricane, is rolling in its bed, which is a human-like action. By giving the hurricane a human-like figure, the hurricane becomes more powerful. Because humans have power and control over many things, the personification of the hurricane gives the hurricane extreme power (more power than a hurricane already has). This creature is able to bring destruction and people fear this monster.

Foil

“Have de nerve tuh say whut you mean.” (109)

This quote is said by Tea Cake who is a foil to Joe Starks. Tea Cake wants Janie to say what is on her mind and express her feelings. This is a very strong contrast to Joe, who never allowed Janie to speak. Tea Cake tells Janie to be brave and say what she wants. Knowing Janie's past relationship with Joe, the reader could think that Janie might have a difficult time doing this because of how Joe treated her. However, Janie goes ahead and tells Tea Cake what she is thinking, showing Janie's bravery and true character that was suppressed under Joe.

Journal #6

Many of my revision decisions came from the question, "Does this reflect the style of Hurston's?" Although not every element in my pastiche strongly reflects Hurston's writing, I tried to make them more obvious and include more. One major change I made was chronology. I decided to do what Hurston did and start with the present and tell the story of the past. My first rough draft did not do this. I also changed some of the actions of my character and altered the plot slightly. During the process, I also read the letter that my reader wrote to me in class and took into account some of the ideas. There were confusing things the reader found that I was able to make more clear. Overall the revision process was beneficial, but I feel like there is still much more to be done for my pastiche.

Journal #5

But Robert started to consider Curiosity. Curiosity, that peculiar creature with the long slender ears who resided deep in the thoughts. The determined being who lived in the minds of all people like a conscience with an overwhelming voice, and a mind of its own. What desire does Curiosity have to live inside, and what force can stop him? He watches from his strong fortress that forbids entrance of any being. Watches carefully and secretly day by day with his strategy planned out, waiting for the signal from the situation. Been planning out schemes before there was a man or a woman or a setting. Robert was bound to figure out his plan looking to bring regret and shame at any second. He was nervous and terrified too. Poor Jeff! He should not have to undertake the resistance alone. He sent Henry in to advise and warn, but Jeff refused. These warnings wuz able to help with the tempted, but they didn't understand a situation that had never been seen before. He'd been perfectly fine just before the devious woman had planted doubts into his mind. He was fully aware of what was going on. That was what he thought. But Henry told Robert the truth, so he knew. But if Henry had not, the following night Robert was destined to know, for he found Jeff in a confused trance, lost under the thoughts and doubts. Questions that would never have been asked now constantly emerged from the ground. Just waited above the sun and observed. Trust, that elusive worm, had burrowed under the ground.

I began the pastiche in a similar way with a sentence that starts in the middle of a thought using the word "But". I used a possibly negative abstract noun the way Hurston did, describing it as something evil and wicked. I also gave it a powerful characteristic that one cannot control. Characters were brought into the scene in a similar way and they took the roles presented in the passage. A change in dialect was only used once and a sentence with parallel structure was included. At the end, another abstract noun was brought in, using a metaphor that compares it to an animal like Hurston did with rumor.

Journal #4

"This was the first time it happened, but after a while it got so common she ceased to be surprised. It was like a drug. In a way it was good because it reconciled her to things. She got so she received all things with the stolidness of the earth which soaks up urine and perfume with the same indifference." (77)

Syntax
The sentence "It was like a drug." is a clear use of syntax. It is a simple sentence surrounded by more complex sentences. This sentence serves to describe how Janie felt and the situation she was in. The simplicity exemplifies the feeling of apathy and not wanting to go into much detail. The simplicity also shows the apathetic effects of drugs which  is almost seen in this sentence.

Word Choice
The use of "urine and perfume" really helps the reader see the apathy even more. In this example, the earth is soaking up urine and perfume like it's the same thing because it does not care. Urine and perfume being almost completely different in description and quality, this example further shows the apathy Janie is feeling. To Janie, she no longer cares whether it is urine or perfume and sees them with indifference, for she has given up.

Tone
The tone in this passage is apathetic or tired. Through word choice the author is showing the high level of apathy in Janie. The author wants the reader to feel the same apathy through this passage to gain a better understanding of how Janie is feeling. There may also be a slight tone of sympathy. Feeling bad for Janie and how overwhelmed and done she is with her situation may be a goal for Hurston in this passage.

Sound Device
I think the "sh" sound used in the beginning of the last sentence may show the quietness of Janie. The sound "sh" indicates quiet and hush, as Janie is forced to be with Joe. By using this sound, Hurston shows how quiet and insignificant Janie is becoming: a quiet, inferior wife with no say in what she does.

Journal #3

1. "Yeah, Matt, dat mule so skinny till de women is usin' his rib bones fuh uh rub-board, and hangin' things out on his hock-bones tuh dry." (52)
-Hyperbole and Imagery

2. "You'se uh stinkin' lie, Sam, and yo' feet ain't mates. Y-y-y-you!"
"Ah-ah-ah- d-d-does feed 'im! Ah g-g-gived 'im uh full cup uh cawn every feedin'." (52)
-An addition of stuttering to show a certain emotion in the character.

3. "But that never halted the mule talk. There would be more stories about how poor the brute was; his age; his evil disposition and his latest caper. Everybody indulged in mule talk. He was next to the Mayor in prominence, and made better talking." (53)
-This shows the reoccurring concept of talking in the community. It is a social event everybody participates in. It is seen in the first scene of the book with Janie walking down the road while the women were talking on the porch. People are able to freely say what they want, criticizing whoever. In chapter six, Matt is the "victim", being made fun of for the mistreatment of his mule. Also, the word prominence is important to the story. The state of being valuable or important is a part of the struggle Janie has to deal with, especially in the marriage with Joe Starks. To Joe, prominence is everything and he thinks he is giving it to Janie by being married to her. In the social context of the book, the struggle for the African Americans can be related to prominence as well.

4. "He wouldn't dig potatoes, and he wouldn't rake hay: He wouldn't take a whipping, and he wouldn't run away." (67)
-Parallel structure/Repetition: "He wouldn't"

5. "So gradually, she pressed her teeth together and learned to hush." (71)
-This is one instance that Janie tries to adapt to the situation she is in, but later ends up unable to stay suppressed. I see other examples of Janie forced to adapt and accept what she is given. As a child, she is forced to live with her grandma and forced to abide to her rules, such as having to marry Logan Killicks. Unhappy in her situation, she tries to force herself to love Logan, but it does not work out and ends up leaving him. This quote shows she is done fighting for being able to express herself. She is forced to stay quiet, wear a head rag, and work in the store. However, she later decides to let it all out in the scene where Joe is in his death bed. Throughout the story, it seems Janie is forced into many situations and she tries to adapt, but in the end, is unable to stay oppressed and ends up doing as she truly pleases.

Journal #2

Dialect Rules

1. Words like "bro, man, and dude" are constantly used

2. Phrases indicating who is saying what are not included

3. "Nah" will be used instead of "no"

4. Verbs ending in -ing will be turned into -in'

5. Incorrect verb tenses are used

6. "this" and "that" are changed to "dis" and "dat"

7. Many words are shortened. For example, "cuz" instead of "because" or "fo'" instead of "for"

Structure of P. 43

Valentine's Day was quickly approaching and Johnny was in a desperate need of money for a gift.

"Come on, man! We've been friends fo' ten years now. Just let me borrow twenty dollars and I promise to get yo' money back next week."

"Nah bro, I've been savin' up fo' a new car. I can't man."

"Dude, you know I really like dat girl. I have to get a nice gift fo' her. Dat ring we saw was only fifty dollars! I be desperate right now bro."

Still unconvinced, Johnny's friend was unwilling to give up a single penny. This year's Valentine's Day was looking quite sad for Johnny.

"Man, I be gettin' barely enough money to feed myself cuz of dat boss of mine. You may be desperate fo' dat ring, but I be desperate fo' a car."

Hopeless and done trying, Johnny left the house and walked aimlessly down the road. The thought of showing up to the special date without a gift saddened him greatly. He took a deep look into himself, asking why he was never able to successfully get a task done. At the sound of footsteps approaching him, Johnny awoke from his mind and found his friend running towards him.

"Hey man, here's twenty dollars. Go get dat ring. It's waitin' fo' you bro"

"You really givin' dis to me? I appreciate man. I knewed you understand. I promise to get yo' money back in a week. I promise."

Journal #1

I perceive Janie as a strong and bold character, yet with loyal characteristics. As she walks down the road, she walks to her home confidently, not affected by the staring eyes. She quickly acknowledges her "audience" and proceeds to walk. "Her speech was pleasant enough, but she kept walking straight on to her gate." (2) She knows what they are thinking and knows they are hungry for answers regarding what happened to her and Tea Cake. However, she does not even think about answering the questions. She boldly tells Phoebe, "Ah don't mean to bother wid tellin' 'em nothin', Phoebe. 'Tain't worth de trouble." (6) Also, she is not afraid to criticize those that were on the porch gossiping. She tells Phoebe that "people like dem wastes up too much time puttin' they mouf on things they don't know nothin' about." (6) Her loyalty is seen through her relationship with Phoebe. She is able to converse easily with her best friend upon being gone for a while, and able to share jokes. She also seems loyal to Tea Cake. She clearly explains what happened, making sure Phoebe does not see Tea Cake as a villain. She is defiant in her words when she says, "Tea Cake ain't wasted up no money of mine, and he ain't left me for no young gal, neither. He give me every consolation in de world. He'd tell 'em so too, if he was here." (7) Her confidence shows her loyalty to Tea Cake.

The narrator seems to know all about the characters. The thoughts of the main character and less important characters are revealed. The narrator knows exactly what the women on the porch are thinking and how they are looking at Janie. The narrator explains that the women, "chewed up the back parts of their minds and swallowed with relish. They made burning statements with questions, and killing tools out of laughs." and "took the faded shirt and muddy overalls and laid them away for remembrance. It was a weapon against her strength if it turned out of no significance, still it was a hope that she might fall to their level some day." (2) This explanation that the women on the porch are judging Janie as she walks by is confirmed through the dialogue that follows. By including a narrator that knows a lot, the reader is able to gain a full understanding of what is going on. The narrator also depicts very clear images through the use of figurative language. The opening paragraph of the book is one example.

Post #4 - Sample Test

1. "He kept hacking into a large checkered handkerchief, and every cough was like a convulsion." - The Stranger. There is an example of _______ in this quote.

2. The confrontation between Janie and the crazy, rabies affected Tea Cake is seen as the ________ of the story.

3. Desdemona's white handkerchief in Othello is one ________ in the play.

4. The dialect of the characters in Their Eyes Were Watching God is seen through ___________.

5. Big Brother and the totalitarian government are the ___________ in 1984.

Post #3 - Euphemism

Euphemism
The substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt.

Euphemism is used almost like a mask. It covers up a possibly harsh or offensive term by using a different term that is less offensive and more humble. By applying euphemism, the tone of a passage is altered. A well-known example of euphemism is "passed away" versus "died". While saying the villain "died", the author might choose to say the brave warrior "passed away". The two words, "died" and "passed away" both mean the same thing, but when used in context, tone is changed. In this example the author would want you to look at the death of the villain as a triumph and victory and have a bright attitude towards the death of an evil character. However, if the brave warrior were to die, the author would want you to look at the death with great respect and honor while having a mournful attitude. An example of euphemism can be found in The Stranger. The opening line of the book is "Maman died today." The next sentence includes a telegram reading, "Mother deceased." While in the words Meursault, his mother died, but in the words of a telegram he received, his mother was deceased. This is a great example of how authors can use euphemism to portray a character a certain way. Right away, you can see what kind of person Meursault is through the choice of words.

Other examples of Euphemism:

• Visit the Ladies Room
• Big Boned
• Be Excused
• Gone South
• Kick the Bucket
• No Longer With Us

Post #2

Dialogue
The words spoken in the text usually between two or more characters.

Dialogue is a way of characterization. The contents of a character's speech can give the reader more information about the character. For example, in "Their Eyes Were Watching God", without the dialogue, we as the readers would never have known that the characters spoke in a different dialect than what we are used to hearing and reading. The way the author uses the dialogue is important. The characters may be speaking short sentences rapidly or they can have a long speech that they give. Dialogue can also set the atmosphere or mood of a certain passage. If the dialogue of two characters show they are fighting and using harsh words, we know the mood is tense or angry and that something bad may be on the verge rather than something happy and cheerful. Dialogue can be used to insert a certain emotion inside the reader such as anxiety or excitement. The author may also use dialogue to convey important information.

Post #1

1. I enjoyed reading "1984" the most. The amount of tension and risk the characters were involved in throughout the book kept me engaged and wanting to read on. A simple thought against the government or even a slight suspicion of rebellious thoughts and actions could get you in prison and possibly killed. As Winston takes many risks such as keeping a diary and purchasing a paperweight, you can't help but feel the same anxiety of possibly being caught at any moment. Seeing an image of what the future would look like to someone of the past was interesting as well. I don't know the social context of when this book was written, but I think it might help me understand why this image of a dystopian society was formed by the author. Thinking about how much control the government has in this book is intimidating. Children are brain-washed to the point where they would suspect rebellion in their parents and report them in, the poor people are completely ignored, and everywhere you go, there is a telescreen monitoring your every action and a poster claiming Big Brother is watching you. The amount of privacy available in today's world is a huge contrast to what I read in the book. The people are even convinced to believe that 2 + 2 = 5.

2. I least enjoyed reading "The Stranger". The book wasn't able to grasp me in as much as the other books we read. Meursault appeared to be a boring guy, uninterested in life, and that may have affected why I did not enjoy this book as much. However, I'm sure the author did this on purpose and characterized Meursault this way to convey an important message. I found the contents of the book interesting though. I thought opening up the book with an announcement of death was an interesting way to start a book. I feel like I did not get as much as I could have while reading this book. I understood the plot and what was going on, but I wasn't quite able to see a deeper meaning.

3. If I were to write an essay on "Their Eyes Were Watching God", I would focus on the element of marriage in the book. As Janie is married to three different men throughout the book, I see an importance of marriage and love in Janie's life. Even after many struggles in her previous marriage, Janie looks to try one more time and finds herself in a new kind of struggle. Along with the marriage comes the man who she is with. These men are each distinct in their appearances, views, and treatment of Janie. As possible foils to each other, the three men from Janie's marriage are the sources to Janie's suffering. I think these elements are important because they further show the struggles women went through in that time period. To make the struggles worse, the community the story takes place in consists of African Americans in a time of racism and discrimination.