Reading and understanding "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumba Lahiri, was no easy task, but I will admit that I did remain fairly interested the entire time. The irony of Mr. Kapasi dreaming of a future friendship with Mrs. Das and then her basically telling him everything about her because she needed a friend was actually surprisingly entertaining to me. I cannot say that I saw it coming. Mr. Kapasi just looked like a big idiot to me when he was planning a secret step-by-step plan in his head of a future with the woman. Then she dropped a bomb on him with the fact that one of her sons was not even the son of her husband! Additionally, she continued to recap her entire history with her husband all to a man who had other motives than being the advisor. All in all, I just thoroughly enjoyed the irony of it.
Another thing worth noting is the imagery that Lahiri uses that is very effective in creating her visions and scenes that she wants the audience to connect to. Lahiri writes, "She was a short woman, with small hands like paws, her frosty pink fingernails painted to match her lips, and was slightly plump in her figure,"(Lahiri). This paints a picture for readers, not only of what Mrs. Das looks like, but the way that Mr. Kapasi sees her, which holds more importance later on.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Ladies and Gentleman.. The Antagonist! ("Everyday Use")
Studying the short story "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker, I was puzzled by the character of Dee. The point of view is from her mother, which is why the beginning was so confusing! At first, I get the impression that the mother is envious of Dee, but later on it becomes more and more clear that Dee is the problem. She dropped everything and ran the second she got the chance, changed her name, showed her selfishness, and showed incredible rudeness to her family. I think these things describe an antagonist.
The most obvious example, and the moment when I think we see Dee's character come out the most, would be the incident with the quilts. Dee is used to getting what she wants, and clearly manipulates her family whenever she gets the opportunity. "' This churn top is what I need'","'And I want the dasher, too'" (Walker) are a few of the examples of the items in her mother's house that she wants and takes. However, when she is told no to the quilts, it was obvious she was not used to not being given what she wants. She accused her sister of being able to appreciate the quilts, and not putting them to the right use, when actually it's the opposite. Maggie would use them and give them the love they deserve, while Dee only wants them for show. Lastly, when Dee accuses her mom of not knowing her own heritage, it shows how truly self-centered she is, and completely oblivious to the feelings of those around her.
The most obvious example, and the moment when I think we see Dee's character come out the most, would be the incident with the quilts. Dee is used to getting what she wants, and clearly manipulates her family whenever she gets the opportunity. "' This churn top is what I need'","'And I want the dasher, too'" (Walker) are a few of the examples of the items in her mother's house that she wants and takes. However, when she is told no to the quilts, it was obvious she was not used to not being given what she wants. She accused her sister of being able to appreciate the quilts, and not putting them to the right use, when actually it's the opposite. Maggie would use them and give them the love they deserve, while Dee only wants them for show. Lastly, when Dee accuses her mom of not knowing her own heritage, it shows how truly self-centered she is, and completely oblivious to the feelings of those around her.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Who the heck is Mr. Z?
In all seriousness, "Mr. Z" by M. Carol Holman was a well-written, insightful poem. What I don't understand is why the author decided to give the main character a name in the title at all if he was not going to mention it or use it in the poem at any point? Is there an underlying meaning that I'm not picking up? If so, what is it?
However, besides my hang-up on the name, I actually found this poem interesting to say the least. One of the first details I picked up on was the fact that the character was black. "His mother's skin was the sign of error," (Holman) being in the first line, must mean that his being African American was important. And as we see in the remainder of the poem, this turns out to be true. He worked hard at everything, hoping that one day, it would all pay off. He married a former Jewish women, which to me says that it was probably out of love- that was probably the kind of thing that could ruin both of their reputations. Then, in the end, though he may not have gotten very far in society at that time, he did become "'One of the most distinguished members of his race'"(Holman). I feel like that last line speaks volumes. Even though he sought after his ambitions, worked hard, and never gave up trying, the majority of people will never realize it because they cannot see past the color of his skin. It's utterly disappointing, and yet completely true.
However, besides my hang-up on the name, I actually found this poem interesting to say the least. One of the first details I picked up on was the fact that the character was black. "His mother's skin was the sign of error," (Holman) being in the first line, must mean that his being African American was important. And as we see in the remainder of the poem, this turns out to be true. He worked hard at everything, hoping that one day, it would all pay off. He married a former Jewish women, which to me says that it was probably out of love- that was probably the kind of thing that could ruin both of their reputations. Then, in the end, though he may not have gotten very far in society at that time, he did become "'One of the most distinguished members of his race'"(Holman). I feel like that last line speaks volumes. Even though he sought after his ambitions, worked hard, and never gave up trying, the majority of people will never realize it because they cannot see past the color of his skin. It's utterly disappointing, and yet completely true.
Simile Mania! "Dream Deferred"
Five similes has got to be important, right? Well, I think so. In "Dream Deferred" by Langston Hughes, the literary technique of similes is incredible. Who knew that using the word "like" could be so effective? Hughes is showing us, through these similes, the different dreams we have and how we remember some and forget others, depending on what it is about. We are given the line, "Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?" (Hughes). I take this to mean that this is the kind of dream that we forget the minute we wake up because it bears no real significance. Also, we are shown, "Or crust and sugar over-- like a syrupy sweet?" (Hughes). This line, for me, paints the picture of a dream that we love, and we want to cherish and keep forever.
Lastly, I also wanted to note the breaks he uses in the poem. Hughes starts and ends with a question, and this holds some importance, I believe. Really, I think both are rhetorical, because even though he attempts to answer the first one, there is no one definite answer. And clearly the last one is posed just to get us thinking. With more analysis, I'm sure I will understand the meaning behind it.
Lastly, I also wanted to note the breaks he uses in the poem. Hughes starts and ends with a question, and this holds some importance, I believe. Really, I think both are rhetorical, because even though he attempts to answer the first one, there is no one definite answer. And clearly the last one is posed just to get us thinking. With more analysis, I'm sure I will understand the meaning behind it.
Analysis on Hazel Tells LaVerne
For the poem "Hazel Tells LaVerne" by Kathryn How'd Machan, I decided to answer and elaborate on the first question following the work. In my mind, the setting of the poem is clearly stated through good imagery throughout the poem. I see this scene taking place in a bathroom at night. Clues like "last night im cleanin out my howard johnsons ladies room.." (Machan) and "has ta flush the toilet down three times.." (Machan) allow me to make the assumptions about the setting. Picking up on those key words was so important in envisioning a maid and a frog and their awkward bathroom encounter.
This revision of the fairy tale "The Frog Prince" was interesting to say the least. It definitely gave a new twist to the story, considering how the endings are completely differed. I am not sure that I liked this so much though. The language and vernacular of the poem made more difficult to understand, and I don't really know what the purpose of that was yet. Also, I am not a big fan of changes to good things, and I do like the original story, so changing its ending was not going to please me.
This revision of the fairy tale "The Frog Prince" was interesting to say the least. It definitely gave a new twist to the story, considering how the endings are completely differed. I am not sure that I liked this so much though. The language and vernacular of the poem made more difficult to understand, and I don't really know what the purpose of that was yet. Also, I am not a big fan of changes to good things, and I do like the original story, so changing its ending was not going to please me.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Perrine Poetry Post! (Bonus Points for Alliteration?!)
I'm not going to lie, I may have began reading this six page article, The Nature in the Interpretation of Poetry, with the wrong intentions. Before reading this article, I have always believed that any interpretation of poetry that makes logical sense, should be considered an acceptable interpretation. Who has the authority to tell me that what I think about a poem is wrong? Well, reading this article by Lawrence Perrine has given me a whole new perspective on the subject! I cannot say that my mind is completely changed because I still believe there should be room for discussion on different interpretation. However, many of the points he makes, I understand and agree with- especially the way he comes up with the most sensible interpretation. Also, I had never considered some of the things he said about the authors and how they may have trouble explaining the meanings of their own poems. Perrine makes the statement, "He cannot say, 'What I really meant was...' without admitting failure, or without saying something different (and usually much less) than what his poem said." This makes complete sense to me because it would no longer e a mystery waiting to be solved, which is sometimes the beauty of a poem, but instead it becomes an image that the author just describes in a creative way.
Now the main piece of this article that I plan to utilize in guiding my study of poetry in this class would be this: "Of several interpretations, the best is that which fully explains the details of the poem without itself being contradicted by any detail." This statement made in the first page was a profound one, though I may not have realized it until I saw the few examples he gave, using poems we had read last week for an assignment. Perrine presented the poem by Emily Dickinson, and explained the difference between what his students had written was the subject of the poem and what he believed to be the subject of the poem. Interestingly enough, most of the students' interpretations coincided with most of my own class's interpretations. Most people in my class thought it described a meadow, just like Perrine's students; although, we did have a few that said the poem described a sunset. A sunset is believed to be the correct interpretation according to Perrine, and some other external proof that the poem was published in earlier years under the title, "Sunset". Even so, Perrine goes into detail explaining how those who interpreted the poem as a garden, failed to account for some of the details in the poem- like the Wharf. Therefore, I was struck by how true the statement I originally mentioned turned out to be! Knowing this, I will go about the study of poetry knowing that every detail is important, and if I'm not accounting for each one, I am not doing it correctly.
Now the main piece of this article that I plan to utilize in guiding my study of poetry in this class would be this: "Of several interpretations, the best is that which fully explains the details of the poem without itself being contradicted by any detail." This statement made in the first page was a profound one, though I may not have realized it until I saw the few examples he gave, using poems we had read last week for an assignment. Perrine presented the poem by Emily Dickinson, and explained the difference between what his students had written was the subject of the poem and what he believed to be the subject of the poem. Interestingly enough, most of the students' interpretations coincided with most of my own class's interpretations. Most people in my class thought it described a meadow, just like Perrine's students; although, we did have a few that said the poem described a sunset. A sunset is believed to be the correct interpretation according to Perrine, and some other external proof that the poem was published in earlier years under the title, "Sunset". Even so, Perrine goes into detail explaining how those who interpreted the poem as a garden, failed to account for some of the details in the poem- like the Wharf. Therefore, I was struck by how true the statement I originally mentioned turned out to be! Knowing this, I will go about the study of poetry knowing that every detail is important, and if I'm not accounting for each one, I am not doing it correctly.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Yes, My Nose Is Literally In the Book..
Gatsby 15: 171-189- Another Happily Never After
Okay, it was bad enough reading one novel that ends in tragedy, but why two? And why the one I liked better? The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald has no "happily ever after"- how could it with 3 characters dying? An accident, a murder, and a suicide- at least he's creative!
So before I go into my spiel theme and my overall final thoughts, I have to say I still don't feel satisfied. Gatsby, the namesake of the novel, still appears a mystery to me. Up until this very last section, and even still, I don't feel like anyone could really know this character. Everytime I learned something new about him, it meant that what I thought I knew previously about him, wasn't true. From how he became rich, to his family, and even his name, it was really difficult to pin this character when all we continued to be told was mostly lies. Learning about his father that was never mentioned, even though I wasn't expecting it, does not surprise me in the least.
Now we enter the subject of themes. First,. I see materialism and obsessesion with money as a theme; they don't guarantee happiness in any way. Second, I thought that Gatsby's dad spoke some exceptionally wise words when he said, "'It just shows you.'" (Fitzgerald 182). Mr. Gatz may have just been referring to his son, but how true is that for a lot of things? We don't know everything about anyone or anything, so it is never our job to judge, we just have to be trustworthy people, and never be close minded.
This book overall kept me interested. While I may not like tragic endings, it is not like I don't understand. There was no other way because Gatsby was never going to give up on Daisy; he may have been killed by a gun, but he died because of his infatuation with Daisy and refusal to let it go, even when he'd lost.
So if I learned anything, it would be that you can never really know a person for certain, and don't ever get involved with a married person- in the two books we have read, that has not gone well.
So before I go into my spiel theme and my overall final thoughts, I have to say I still don't feel satisfied. Gatsby, the namesake of the novel, still appears a mystery to me. Up until this very last section, and even still, I don't feel like anyone could really know this character. Everytime I learned something new about him, it meant that what I thought I knew previously about him, wasn't true. From how he became rich, to his family, and even his name, it was really difficult to pin this character when all we continued to be told was mostly lies. Learning about his father that was never mentioned, even though I wasn't expecting it, does not surprise me in the least.
Now we enter the subject of themes. First,. I see materialism and obsessesion with money as a theme; they don't guarantee happiness in any way. Second, I thought that Gatsby's dad spoke some exceptionally wise words when he said, "'It just shows you.'" (Fitzgerald 182). Mr. Gatz may have just been referring to his son, but how true is that for a lot of things? We don't know everything about anyone or anything, so it is never our job to judge, we just have to be trustworthy people, and never be close minded.
This book overall kept me interested. While I may not like tragic endings, it is not like I don't understand. There was no other way because Gatsby was never going to give up on Daisy; he may have been killed by a gun, but he died because of his infatuation with Daisy and refusal to let it go, even when he'd lost.
So if I learned anything, it would be that you can never really know a person for certain, and don't ever get involved with a married person- in the two books we have read, that has not gone well.
Gatsby 14: 154-170- A Thousand Ways to Die
I guess one way of dying could be by getting caught up in a crazy love pentagon, being involved in a hit and run/homicide, and then being murdered by a half-psychotic maniac. I would prefer something a little less intense, but that's just me. F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of The Great Gatsby, just wanted something a little more dramatic, and we can definitely see that!
So this is it then? The Great Gatsby has died- along with the less important Mr. Wilson- as a part of the novel's falling action. So what now, well since that was pretty much the bulk of what happened in this section, along with all the events that led up to it, I feel like I can bring up something I found incredibly random to stick in to the book at this point in time. "'You ought to have a church, George, for times like this. You must have gone to church once. Didn't you get married in a church?...'" (Fitzgerald 165). Where in the world did this sudden concern with religion become a thing? I have not heard a thing about anyone being a man of God or even religious at all. Now all the sudden, because there has been a death, God has become a priority? I understand the need for God in a person's life especially during a tragedy, but I guess I just found it interesting that now for the first time in the course of the novel, religion is mentioned.
So this is it then? The Great Gatsby has died- along with the less important Mr. Wilson- as a part of the novel's falling action. So what now, well since that was pretty much the bulk of what happened in this section, along with all the events that led up to it, I feel like I can bring up something I found incredibly random to stick in to the book at this point in time. "'You ought to have a church, George, for times like this. You must have gone to church once. Didn't you get married in a church?...'" (Fitzgerald 165). Where in the world did this sudden concern with religion become a thing? I have not heard a thing about anyone being a man of God or even religious at all. Now all the sudden, because there has been a death, God has become a priority? I understand the need for God in a person's life especially during a tragedy, but I guess I just found it interesting that now for the first time in the course of the novel, religion is mentioned.
Gatsby 13: 145-153- Blame it on the...what?
It was all about timing- a perfect storm kind of situation. So if one were to ask me, I would blame all of this on the setting. It was night, driving home from a long, stressful, and eventful day. Circumstance and chance played a bigger part in this whole happening than the driver or the driver's pure desire to run over poor Myrtle Wilson in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby.
So the deed is done, now what happens next? Tom is of course deeply affected by the loss, but has to play it off right now to avoid being connected to the whole situation. Mr. Wilson is devastated and just wants answers. He yells,"'You don't have to tell me what kind of car it was! I know what kind of car it was!'" (Fitzgerald 147). Nick and Jordan are just kind of stuck in the middle of the mess at the moment. Daisy is probably distraught on the inside, but doing a good job of keeping it hidden. And Gatsby, he is just concerned about Daisy- which makes sense after he reveals that she was the driver of the car.
What is to become of this mess now? I'm sure that we will get more answers as we journey on.
So the deed is done, now what happens next? Tom is of course deeply affected by the loss, but has to play it off right now to avoid being connected to the whole situation. Mr. Wilson is devastated and just wants answers. He yells,"'You don't have to tell me what kind of car it was! I know what kind of car it was!'" (Fitzgerald 147). Nick and Jordan are just kind of stuck in the middle of the mess at the moment. Daisy is probably distraught on the inside, but doing a good job of keeping it hidden. And Gatsby, he is just concerned about Daisy- which makes sense after he reveals that she was the driver of the car.
What is to become of this mess now? I'm sure that we will get more answers as we journey on.
Gatsby 12: 134-145 -Ouch, Getting Personal!
Turning point, here we are. I did believe that the heated discussion between Tom and Gatsby over Daisy is climax worthy for F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. However, I then continued on to find that Myrtle had been run over by a car and instantly killed. That was the definite turning point in the novel.
Fighting for the love of Daisy, Tom and Gatsby make incredibly personal attacks at each other, and I followed along completely engrossed in the conflict. Gatsby knows he has Daisy's love now, but in his flaunting that in Tom's face, he also learns that Daisy did love Tom at a point in time.
Then I take time to think about Daisy's part in all of this mess. While at first, I may have felt bad for her, she put this upon herself. Having Gatsby and Tom in the same room at all was asking for it in my opinion. Furthmore, she continues to stun readers by dropping a bomb to her husband. "'Daisy's leaving you,'" (Fitzgerald 141) says Gatsby to Tom.
Arguing, pointing fingers, making accusations, then of course, what better way to end a this night than with someone dying. And lastly, we are left with many questions that will hopefully be resolved in the falling action of the novel.
Fighting for the love of Daisy, Tom and Gatsby make incredibly personal attacks at each other, and I followed along completely engrossed in the conflict. Gatsby knows he has Daisy's love now, but in his flaunting that in Tom's face, he also learns that Daisy did love Tom at a point in time.
Then I take time to think about Daisy's part in all of this mess. While at first, I may have felt bad for her, she put this upon herself. Having Gatsby and Tom in the same room at all was asking for it in my opinion. Furthmore, she continues to stun readers by dropping a bomb to her husband. "'Daisy's leaving you,'" (Fitzgerald 141) says Gatsby to Tom.
Arguing, pointing fingers, making accusations, then of course, what better way to end a this night than with someone dying. And lastly, we are left with many questions that will hopefully be resolved in the falling action of the novel.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Gatsby 11: 127-134-That Awkward Moment When...
That awkward moment when your husband realizes he's being played. So Tom has figured out the Daisy and Gatsby have a thing going on in this portion of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and I understand that he's upset, but he has nothing to stand on. He's been cheating on poor Daisy for a long time, and I'm not defending her actions, but her and Tom's relationship was having problems before Gatsby came into the picture.
Now Tom has put everyone in a very awkward situation by giving into Daisy's request to go downtown. I also foresee this being another indicator of Tom's obsessive and controlling personality. This absolutely cannot end well. Then, let's just add one more awkward encounter to this scenario- just for kicks and giggles. Where did Tom stop for gas? Why the Wilson's drugstore of course. There, he finds out the they are planning a trip out West.
So in the matter of just a few pages, we have seen Tom realize his own wife's unfaithful actions and then that his mistress is going away with her husband. Our most controlling character is watching as his most prized possessions slip through his finger tips. Fitzgerald describes it as "feeling hot whips of panic," (Fitzgerald 131). I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Now Tom has put everyone in a very awkward situation by giving into Daisy's request to go downtown. I also foresee this being another indicator of Tom's obsessive and controlling personality. This absolutely cannot end well. Then, let's just add one more awkward encounter to this scenario- just for kicks and giggles. Where did Tom stop for gas? Why the Wilson's drugstore of course. There, he finds out the they are planning a trip out West.
So in the matter of just a few pages, we have seen Tom realize his own wife's unfaithful actions and then that his mistress is going away with her husband. Our most controlling character is watching as his most prized possessions slip through his finger tips. Fitzgerald describes it as "feeling hot whips of panic," (Fitzgerald 131). I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Gatsby 10: 110-127- Ca$h Money
"'Her voice is full of money,'" (Fitzgerald 127) is the line that stuck out most to me after reading 17 pages of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Maybe it's a theme, or maybe it reminded me of the recently read House of Mirth, but that profound line really said a lot. Is Gatsby in this game for the money? It is most definitely a possibility, but I really thought better of him than that,and I hope he proves that line to be untrue.
Aside from that line that I saw as having great significance- especially for a possible theme later on- there were a few other important events that are contributing to the rising action. One of them being Tom and Daisy's attendance at Gatsby's party. And then also there was when Daisy said I love you to Gatsby in so many words- and Tom caught on! These very events, while having a great importance on the plot, also point out the great irony. These things that Daisy is doing behind Tom's back are the exact same things that Tom is doing with Myrtle behind Daisy's back. It is a horrible situation, but it is rather amusing, and maybe it's because I'm a girl and want to sympathize with Daisy, but I think that right now, Tom is getting what he deserves.
Aside from that line that I saw as having great significance- especially for a possible theme later on- there were a few other important events that are contributing to the rising action. One of them being Tom and Daisy's attendance at Gatsby's party. And then also there was when Daisy said I love you to Gatsby in so many words- and Tom caught on! These very events, while having a great importance on the plot, also point out the great irony. These things that Daisy is doing behind Tom's back are the exact same things that Tom is doing with Myrtle behind Daisy's back. It is a horrible situation, but it is rather amusing, and maybe it's because I'm a girl and want to sympathize with Daisy, but I think that right now, Tom is getting what he deserves.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Gatsby 9: 90-110- Here We Go Again
I never thought the day would come when a part of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, would remind me of a Demi Lovato song! When I read of the afternoon of tea between Daisy and Gatsby along with Nick, one of the first things I thought of was the song "Here We Go Again". As it looks, Daisy and Gatsby had a thing many years ago, but it ended and both were left unsatisfied. So here they are 5 years later, and the opportunity has somewhat presented itself again. After some tension at first- when Daisy was practically ambushed- they do seem to actually reconnect. I get this feeling when Fitzgerald states, "Her throat, full of aching, grieving beauty, told of her unexpected joy," (Fitzgerald, 94). For whatever reason, it didn't work out then, and I'm not sure what makes them think it will now, but they both seem to want to try.
Following those scenes in the novel, I also am left wondering about Gatsby's name change. I found it incredibly interesting and a strange way of dealing with his past. And yet, I can also relate as well with his desire to start over, and I can see how changing a name can give him that feeling. From James Gatz to Jay Gatsby, the character we have gotten to know is formed. New name, new life- makes complete sense to me!
Gatsby 8: 79-90- I Wish That I Could Have Moment For Life
Many important contributions to the plot occur in this section of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. One being Jordan Baker revealing Gatsby's admiration for Daisy years and years ago! Now we can have a more clear look at Jay Gatsby. Hopelessly in love with a woman he could not have, he moved to West Egg just to be close to her. This is probably one of the most helpful details I have seen while looking at Gatsby and his personality and motivations.
Also in this section, we gain a bit more insight on Daisy. She had always been very fickle when it came to men and relationships. In fact, it was mentioned that Jordyn didn't hear much of Daisy for a while until she was engaged to Tom. Even after that, it sounds to me like Daisy was always on Gatsby's mind, and Gatsby was always in the back of Daisy's mind.
Finally for this passage, I was introduced to more foreshadowing. When Miss Baker says, "'And Daisy ought to have something in her life,'" (Fitzgerald 85) I took that to mean that something will happen for Daisy because she is the protagonist of the story.
Also in this section, we gain a bit more insight on Daisy. She had always been very fickle when it came to men and relationships. In fact, it was mentioned that Jordyn didn't hear much of Daisy for a while until she was engaged to Tom. Even after that, it sounds to me like Daisy was always on Gatsby's mind, and Gatsby was always in the back of Daisy's mind.
Finally for this passage, I was introduced to more foreshadowing. When Miss Baker says, "'And Daisy ought to have something in her life,'" (Fitzgerald 85) I took that to mean that something will happen for Daisy because she is the protagonist of the story.
Gatsby 7: 72-79- In Depth
As the plot begins to unfold itself in this section of The Great Gatsby, I was very excited to see some symbolism used by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The bridge symbolizes a choice, and once it is crossed/made, there is no turning back. Fitzgerald writes, "anything can happen now that we've slid over this bridge..anything at all," (Fitzgerald 73). The stakes are high and things are going to change, for better or worse, now.
Also, I was a bit confused about Tom and Gatsby's relationship. I couldn't pinpoint if they had met before. The disappearing act of Gatsby definitely says that something is wrong. I see it as sort of a foreshadowing of conflict in the near future. The relationship between the two won't be positive and it clearly has everything to do with Daisy- that is the only possibility. I cannot wait to see where this takes us as we continue to the rising action!
Also, I was a bit confused about Tom and Gatsby's relationship. I couldn't pinpoint if they had met before. The disappearing act of Gatsby definitely says that something is wrong. I see it as sort of a foreshadowing of conflict in the near future. The relationship between the two won't be positive and it clearly has everything to do with Daisy- that is the only possibility. I cannot wait to see where this takes us as we continue to the rising action!
Gatsby 6: 60-72- To Be Honest
In this section of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, we receive a great deal of character development in the span of about 12 pages. Starting with Miss Jordyn Baker, although I'm not sure of her actual role as a character, I did learn that she is a compulsive liar and a golf champ. Maybe these are two completely random facts that have absolutely no meaning whatsoever, but I have a feeling that the lying trait will come into play here as the plot continues. With our narrator Nick, he believes that there are few people in the world that do NOT lie- one of them being himself. Therefore, right now, he doesn't see Miss Baker's lying as much of a problem. Lastly, we have the development of the one whose name is also the title of the book. Mr. Gatsby is sure to become a major character in this novel in a short time, and Fitzgerald has made getting to know him an easy task for readers. He basically spells out Mr. Gatsby's background for us in about a page. I acquired that he was the son of wealthy people in the Midwest, and was educated at Oxford because of a family tradition. Fitzgerald also mentions how Gatsby was, "trying to forget something very sad that had happened to me long ago," (Fitzgerald 70) and that he tried hard to die in war, showing that deep down beyond the tough exterior, he just has a lot to deal with and is a truly troubled person.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Gatsby 5: 51-60- Picture Perfect
Reading this section of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, I was struck finally by the author's style. Great diction and imagery make details very easy to visualize. Phrases like "florent and corpulent person" (Fitzgerald 53), "quavering soprano" (Fitzgerald 56), and "jaunty salute" (Fitzgerald 57) give the extra meaning that the author wants the audience to understand. I'm enjoying learning the new vocabulary and gaining a whole new understanding of Fitzgerald's style.
Also in this section, I was a surprised by the appearance of Miss Baker at the party. Then, even more so by Gatsby's invitation to speak privately with her. What does he want with her, and when will we find out?
Lastly, I am very curious as to the significance of the car accident toward the end of this section. I think it might be foreshadowing something but I don't know what yet. Or the other possibility I thought of was that it might have been and introduction to important characters. Either way, I will need to continue reading in order to find out!
Also in this section, I was a surprised by the appearance of Miss Baker at the party. Then, even more so by Gatsby's invitation to speak privately with her. What does he want with her, and when will we find out?
Lastly, I am very curious as to the significance of the car accident toward the end of this section. I think it might be foreshadowing something but I don't know what yet. Or the other possibility I thought of was that it might have been and introduction to important characters. Either way, I will need to continue reading in order to find out!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Gatsby 4: 39-51- At First Sight
Before the beginning of the third chapter of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, I took note of a few more details about Myrtle and Tom. First, I found Myrtle’s first meeting with Tom to be strange. She saw Tom as a once in a lifetime opportunity, and therefore, went for it. She repeated, “You can’t live forever” and I’m not sure if I’m clear on what she meant by that. Did she intend for the affair to be a fling? Because with an apartment and the fact that Daisy knows about all of it, it has become much more than a fling. Also, Tom hit her during an argument; he hit her! Though I thought I was in shock at first, the more I looked at it, the more I realized that I was correct in my last blog when I said that he was a very demanding person, and is used to getting what he wants.
Moreover, as I began reading the third chapter, I was very excited to finally be introduced to Gatsby, the namesake of the novel! However, I was thoroughly disappointed when it turned out to be another person! Plus, to add on to that, it is well known that his parties are typically wild and most people are not even invited, they just show up. Hopefully, as we continue the novel, we will finally the character whose name this book is named after.
Moreover, as I began reading the third chapter, I was very excited to finally be introduced to Gatsby, the namesake of the novel! However, I was thoroughly disappointed when it turned out to be another person! Plus, to add on to that, it is well known that his parties are typically wild and most people are not even invited, they just show up. Hopefully, as we continue the novel, we will finally the character whose name this book is named after.
Gatsby 3: 27-39- Sound Familiar?
Finally getting into the deeper parts of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, I’m noticing numerous connections to our recently read House of Mirth. Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson- two of our main characters at this point- have found that in their marriages, what they have isn’t enough.
This reminds me a lot of Bertha Dorset in the House of Mirth, a character whose constant dissatisfaction in her own marriage led to her cheating on her husband repeatedly with different men. Unlike Myrtle, however, Bertha married for the money, and does not regret her decision to marry, whereas Myrtle finds her entire marriage to be a mistake. Also, when Mr. George Dorset finds out about Bertha’s infidelities, he cannot look past them, but this is not the case with Daisy Buchanan. Daisy has done nothing at this point, she knows all about the affair, but is letting it happen. I don’t understand why especially when Nick informs us that she is not Catholic. What reason does she have for trying to save her marriage?
Other details I picked up on and thought were noteworthy include some personality developments that occurred in this section. For example, Tom Buchanan-I have concluded- is very demanding, like when he says, “'I want to see you...Get on the next train,’”(Fitzgerald 30). It’s very clear that when he wants to see her, he doesn’t usually get much of an argument. Also, Myrtle Wilson is much the same way; she is incredibly spoiled. When she pointed out the fact that she wanted a dog, she was not turned down, and quickly given what she wanted.
This reminds me a lot of Bertha Dorset in the House of Mirth, a character whose constant dissatisfaction in her own marriage led to her cheating on her husband repeatedly with different men. Unlike Myrtle, however, Bertha married for the money, and does not regret her decision to marry, whereas Myrtle finds her entire marriage to be a mistake. Also, when Mr. George Dorset finds out about Bertha’s infidelities, he cannot look past them, but this is not the case with Daisy Buchanan. Daisy has done nothing at this point, she knows all about the affair, but is letting it happen. I don’t understand why especially when Nick informs us that she is not Catholic. What reason does she have for trying to save her marriage?
Other details I picked up on and thought were noteworthy include some personality developments that occurred in this section. For example, Tom Buchanan-I have concluded- is very demanding, like when he says, “'I want to see you...Get on the next train,’”(Fitzgerald 30). It’s very clear that when he wants to see her, he doesn’t usually get much of an argument. Also, Myrtle Wilson is much the same way; she is incredibly spoiled. When she pointed out the fact that she wanted a dog, she was not turned down, and quickly given what she wanted.
Gatsby 2: 12-26- That Was Fast
I'm a bit surprised that we were introduced to such a big conflict so early on in the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It makes me believe that this affair that Tom Buchanon is having must lead to something even greater- Nick. So adding that to what we already learned about him in the first section, we can certainly come to the conclusion that he is a main character who will provide an interesting perspective for the rest of the novel. I have also discovered that Daisy and Tom are most definitely main characters, and Tom may even be the antagonist. I am hoping that Daisy and Nick are the protagonists- especially Daisy, considering what she has been through up to this point. Furthermore, I am curious to see where Miss Baker plays into this mess of things. Also, at this point, I'm very confused at Nick's deal with Gatsby, something's missing and I'm hoping in the next few chapters I will be able to figure it out. Fitzgerald mentions, "Something in his leisurely movements and the secure position of his feet upon the lawn suggested that it was Mr. Gatsby himself, come out to determine what the share was his of our local heavens," (Fitzgerald 25). Nick has been keeping an eye of Gatsby, enough to know some important details about him, and yet the two have never spoken? I know that very soon they will have to, though, because Gatsby is obviously a main character, and will need to be closely associated with the narrator in order for that to happen.
Gatsby 1: 1-12- On Your Mark, Get Set(ting), Go!
As we are introduced to F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, one of the first things I noticed about this novel in particular was the effectiveness of the setting in the few few pages of the book. It is said the the narrator lives in what is known as West Egg in New York. From what little information there was about the time period, I was able to gather that it is probably the early 1920s. The biggest clue to that was the fact that I knew that the narrator graduated from school in 1915. Fitzgerald writes, "I graduated from New Haven in 1915, just quarter of a century after my father..." (Fitzgerald 7). Also, Chicago was mentioned early on as a place the narrator had visited, and his cousin and family used to live. I'm not sure if this will have any significance later but we will see. The questions I've come up with to start include: what will the East Egg and West Egg differences mean for the story? Does this lead into some conflicts? Who is the narrator? And lastly, will his schooling at New Haven play into the story later?
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