Ms. Sobrero, you told me that Heathcliff was like Mr. Darcy. I agree to some degree, just not entirely. Heathcliff, to me, was a lot more obsessive and creepy than Mr. Darcy ever could be. And Heathcliff frequently weirded me out with his obsession.
It was cute how he put Catherine first. But not so cute when he continued to do so after her death and harmed other's in his quest for revenge. And wished to mingle with Catherine when they decomposed. Yeah, that wasn't cute in any way. Gave me chills actually.
Overall for this story, I'll say it amused and entertained me. And it made me really pay attention to the little details and made me finish a chapter so as to not confuse me as to who the narrator was. It was a Romeo and Juliet-esque kind of story that was split into two stories with the second story being an alternate ending for the former.
All's well that ends well, for young Catherine and Hareton at least.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
19. Wuthering Heights
I knew Hareton and Catherine would fall in love. I knew it!
They're the alternate, "would have, should have, could have" ending that should have been Heathcliff's and Catherine's. And I'm glad that Heathcliff gave up his plan of revenge and reached a 'peaceful' end.
Weird connection but when Catherine was giving books to Hareton, it reminded me of Beauty and the Beast, the Disney version. Although Hareton is not a beast, and the Beast wasn't illiterate. The books did it for me as well as the fact that Catherine was a bewitching beauty like Belle.
They're the alternate, "would have, should have, could have" ending that should have been Heathcliff's and Catherine's. And I'm glad that Heathcliff gave up his plan of revenge and reached a 'peaceful' end.
Weird connection but when Catherine was giving books to Hareton, it reminded me of Beauty and the Beast, the Disney version. Although Hareton is not a beast, and the Beast wasn't illiterate. The books did it for me as well as the fact that Catherine was a bewitching beauty like Belle.
18. Wuthering Heights
I retract my last statement from the previous blog. I suppose Heathcliff has 'won' in his own sick, twisted and obsessive way.
Really gross. Now whenever I think of graveyards, I think of Hamlet. "To be or not to be that is the question!", well I can guess how Heathcliff would answer, probably something along the lines of, "To be together with Catherine for eternity."
I'm thinking about it right now and it occurred to be that young Catherine is in her teen years, meaning Old Catherine has been dead for a really long time and Heathcliff still claims she is recognizable. Ew.
Really gross. Now whenever I think of graveyards, I think of Hamlet. "To be or not to be that is the question!", well I can guess how Heathcliff would answer, probably something along the lines of, "To be together with Catherine for eternity."
I'm thinking about it right now and it occurred to be that young Catherine is in her teen years, meaning Old Catherine has been dead for a really long time and Heathcliff still claims she is recognizable. Ew.
17. Wuthering Heights
The desperate moves of a desperate man. The carefully orchestrated game Heathcliff was playing had to be moved along at a faster pace for fear of failure. I still can't believe he forced them to marry like that. Though I suppose it could have been worse.
It's weird the people he has added to his hodgepodge of a collection. From sickly and resented Linton, headstrong and his own kind of mini-me Hareton, and now young Catherine whom represented all that he wanted and wished to take away from Edgar.
But I'm still not sure whether he 'won' that round. Edgar now gets to spend eternity next to his love, overlooking the moors.
It's weird the people he has added to his hodgepodge of a collection. From sickly and resented Linton, headstrong and his own kind of mini-me Hareton, and now young Catherine whom represented all that he wanted and wished to take away from Edgar.
But I'm still not sure whether he 'won' that round. Edgar now gets to spend eternity next to his love, overlooking the moors.
16. Wuthering Heights
As alike as I had said previously of Old Catherine and Young Catherine, they also seem to be parallels of the other. Old Catherine fell ill and was tended to by the Lintons, while Young Catherine is taking care of Linton. Just a small observation.
And young Linton seems to me a tad like Edgar as well. His, I guess you could call it, frailty of character as well as desperation to keep the one he loves is quite like Edgar. A funny contrast to his strong, robust father.
Then there's Nelly. The only constant person in all of these people's lives. She's a funny one, I think. She's not a gossiping housekeeper, but I really don't know an appropriate term for her. Fairy godmother is too fanciful, and mother is too endearing. Caretaker will have to do, I suppose. The care she gave to every character and the attention she paid to all of them is fascinating.
And young Linton seems to me a tad like Edgar as well. His, I guess you could call it, frailty of character as well as desperation to keep the one he loves is quite like Edgar. A funny contrast to his strong, robust father.
Then there's Nelly. The only constant person in all of these people's lives. She's a funny one, I think. She's not a gossiping housekeeper, but I really don't know an appropriate term for her. Fairy godmother is too fanciful, and mother is too endearing. Caretaker will have to do, I suppose. The care she gave to every character and the attention she paid to all of them is fascinating.
15. Wuthering Heights
It's strange that the central characters of the story have shifted from Heathcliff, Hindley, and Catherine to their children. But I guess the story couldn't have revolved around them after the deaths of 2/3 of them.
I also noticed the strange interlacing of personalities in young Catherine. She's stubborn like her mother, yet at times very complacent and understanding like her father.
And though they're not 'related', Hareton has turned into Heathcliff. Not only in his position but headstrong personality as well.
I also noticed the strange interlacing of personalities in young Catherine. She's stubborn like her mother, yet at times very complacent and understanding like her father.
And though they're not 'related', Hareton has turned into Heathcliff. Not only in his position but headstrong personality as well.
14. Wuthering Heights
Hareton also is a victim of much neglect, denied the life of privilege he should have been born into. The opposite of Heathcliff's life at an early age, until Hindley cut off all priveleges and demoted him to the position Heathcliff has now appointed to his son.
Quite the opposite of young Catherine. Whose sheltered life is almost like Rapunzel. Not really, but I'm making that connection because I saw Tangled yesterday.
And poor Linton. Lost his mother and just when he thinks he's gaining a father, he gets a gruff Heathcliff instead.
Quite the opposite of young Catherine. Whose sheltered life is almost like Rapunzel. Not really, but I'm making that connection because I saw Tangled yesterday.
And poor Linton. Lost his mother and just when he thinks he's gaining a father, he gets a gruff Heathcliff instead.
13. Wuthering Heights
And so young Catherine's early life is very sad. From the moment of her birth, her neglect is apparent. Perhaps explaining her standoffish and bitter persona.
But in the midst of Edgar and Heathcliff's grief over Catherine and constant watch over her body, or in Heathcliff's case, keeping to himself outside of the house after vehemently wishing for Catherine to haunt him.
I guess his wish came true if Lockwood's experience in Chapter 3 is any clue.
But in the midst of Edgar and Heathcliff's grief over Catherine and constant watch over her body, or in Heathcliff's case, keeping to himself outside of the house after vehemently wishing for Catherine to haunt him.
I guess his wish came true if Lockwood's experience in Chapter 3 is any clue.
12. Wuthering Heights
Thoughts on Catherine, I'm only doing this because even Nelly affirmed my feelings towards her with her quote, " "She's fainted, or dead," I thought:"so much the better. Far better that she should be dead, than lingering a burden and a misery-maker to all about her."
Now I don't feel so bad for my feelings and attitude towards Catherine, even though she's dead. Well, all the problems stemmed from her actions and words so really even though the book is centralized around Heathcliff, a suitable alternate title, I think, would be, "A Tenant and a Housekeeper Talk of the Troublesome Girl Who Ruined Everyone's Lives". Too harsh? Maybe, but that's how I'm beginning to see this story.
Now I don't feel so bad for my feelings and attitude towards Catherine, even though she's dead. Well, all the problems stemmed from her actions and words so really even though the book is centralized around Heathcliff, a suitable alternate title, I think, would be, "A Tenant and a Housekeeper Talk of the Troublesome Girl Who Ruined Everyone's Lives". Too harsh? Maybe, but that's how I'm beginning to see this story.
11. Wuthering Heights
I'm going through my blogs and I seem extremely bipolar with my feelings towards these characters. Perhaps it's my ignorance towards such strong feelings of love. But I'm flip-flopping in my sentiments towards this romance. One can't live without the other or die while the other lives on, as Catherine expresses to Heathcliff as she's dying. The love they share is a selfish, consuming kind of love. Strange, and obsessive but love nonetheless.
Even sacrificing, or on Heathcliff's part anyway. Right down to handing Catherine to Edgar and demanding he tend to her while he waited in the garden to see how she fared.
Even sacrificing, or on Heathcliff's part anyway. Right down to handing Catherine to Edgar and demanding he tend to her while he waited in the garden to see how she fared.
10. Wuthering Heights
Sidetracking from the story a tad, but I just want to collect my thoughts on this blog about Heathcliff.
Heathcliff
Heathcliff
- desperately in love with Catherine
- hurt by her 'betrayal'
- hurt at the way he is belittled by others and that's why Catherine did not choose him
- Hurts others to get back at them and Catherine
- I do not condone his plan yet I am still sympathetic
- marries Isabelle to get back at Edgar
- abuses Isabelle to get back at Edgar
- threatens Nelly to get information about Catherine
9. Wuthering Heights
The whole Earnshaw family is dysfunctional. Catherine is selfish and useles, Hindley is scheming and crazy, and Heathcliff is overly jealous and overcome with hate.
Catherine's illness is causing strife for all of them,Edgar and Heathcliff are sick with worry and yet again she causes unnecessary problems and now has a baby on the way. This girl has to get her act together.
And now Hindley wants to kill Heathcliff to gain his fortune. They sure put the ily(I love you) in fam(ily).
Not.
Catherine's illness is causing strife for all of them,Edgar and Heathcliff are sick with worry and yet again she causes unnecessary problems and now has a baby on the way. This girl has to get her act together.
And now Hindley wants to kill Heathcliff to gain his fortune. They sure put the ily(I love you) in fam(ily).
Not.
8. Wuthering Heights
This whole love quadrangle, I don't even know what to call it, is getting on my nerves. This may sounds morbid, but it's unfair that Catherine died first 'freeing herself from her guilt & conflicts' before the rest of them when she was the source of all of their grief.
Onto Edgar, his 'disowning' of his sister irritates me. The patriarchy of this era is really irking my feminist self. But in this case, Isabelle should have listened to her brother and not married Heathcliff. Not only did she lose her only family, but her pride and love as well.
It's all Catherine's fault.
Onto Edgar, his 'disowning' of his sister irritates me. The patriarchy of this era is really irking my feminist self. But in this case, Isabelle should have listened to her brother and not married Heathcliff. Not only did she lose her only family, but her pride and love as well.
It's all Catherine's fault.
7. Wuthering Heights
The way this story is told is very strange. It's told through second-hand accounts of memories. And I've never read a story told this way. It's confusing. Books are much easier to understand when you're reading the events as they happen. But I digress, Chapters 10-12 made me angry(this book is making me realize how emotional a reader I am).
I'm finally coming to terms with my distaste for Catherine. I suppose at that time not many married for love anyway, and it was her upbringing that made her strive for social advancement. But I still don't like her all that much, I just understand her in a way. But this just made me sad for both Heathcliff and Edgar.
If Catherine had just married Heathcliff it would've saved everybody a world of trouble.
I'm finally coming to terms with my distaste for Catherine. I suppose at that time not many married for love anyway, and it was her upbringing that made her strive for social advancement. But I still don't like her all that much, I just understand her in a way. But this just made me sad for both Heathcliff and Edgar.
If Catherine had just married Heathcliff it would've saved everybody a world of trouble.
6. Wuthering Heights
This dual-narratorship is really confusing me. Nelly's narration of the story threw me off when I stopped in the middle of the chapter of her narration and forgot that it wasn't Lockwood's story being told, rather, he's the one who is being told the story.
Other than that, the story is pretty complicated, in a cliche kind of way, if that makes sense. The unrequited love is the cliche part, but so many characters involved is making me confused. I have to keep little notes in my book to remind me who is who.
Other than that, the story is pretty complicated, in a cliche kind of way, if that makes sense. The unrequited love is the cliche part, but so many characters involved is making me confused. I have to keep little notes in my book to remind me who is who.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
5. Wuthering Heights
As creative and old-fashioned as this story is, I feel like it's a mold to all the novels that came after. The cliche admittance of love of someone you're not supposed to be in love with which is conveniently unheard by said person, but this person was around to hear that they were 'not worthy' or something to that extent. So overdone and cliche. But I suppose this book is one of the firsts to utilize this situation.
I want to feel bad for Heathcliff but I can't. My practical romantic personality is barring me from feeling any sympathy for this man who loves a woman who cares more about herself than him. Bah humbug.
I want to feel bad for Heathcliff but I can't. My practical romantic personality is barring me from feeling any sympathy for this man who loves a woman who cares more about herself than him. Bah humbug.
4. Wuthering Heights
I really can't understand why Heathcliff loves Catherine so much. Well I suppose I can, but her two-faced behavior and conflicted emotions makes her a roller coaster I don't think anyone would enjoy.
It's almost like that saying, "If you're going to be two-faced at least make one of them pretty." And boy is Catherine lucky that she's so beautiful. Or else, I doubt her bipolar behavior between Edgar and Heathcliff would've kept them in her clutches for so long.
It's almost like that saying, "If you're going to be two-faced at least make one of them pretty." And boy is Catherine lucky that she's so beautiful. Or else, I doubt her bipolar behavior between Edgar and Heathcliff would've kept them in her clutches for so long.
Monday, November 29, 2010
3. Wuthering Heights
I feel so bad for Heathcliff. I know that during these times, 'gypsy' type people were frowned upon for their lineage, skin color, and reputation. But Heathcliff was but a child and these adults are treating him as if he's a criminal
Although, I'm starting to piece together the beginnings of Heathcliff's and Catherine's relationship, and how Edgar entered the picture.
Even so, it joys my heart to see that even though Heathcliff is hurt by Catherine's aesthetic transformation, he is all too eager to try and impress her and gain her favors once again.
Although, I'm starting to piece together the beginnings of Heathcliff's and Catherine's relationship, and how Edgar entered the picture.
Even so, it joys my heart to see that even though Heathcliff is hurt by Catherine's aesthetic transformation, he is all too eager to try and impress her and gain her favors once again.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Hamlet Madness Essay #2
Start: 5:30
End: 6:40
I rearranged some examples, and reworded my thesis. Still falling a tad bit short of the word count, but I think I can still elaborate more on some of the examples.
End: 6:40
I rearranged some examples, and reworded my thesis. Still falling a tad bit short of the word count, but I think I can still elaborate more on some of the examples.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Hamlet Madness Essay
Began: 3:00
End: 3:52
Added a few more quotes to the essay and I'm still falling 200 words short of 1000.
End: 3:52
Added a few more quotes to the essay and I'm still falling 200 words short of 1000.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
2. Wuthering Heights
Well, all I have to say is "what?!". I am so confused, intrigued, and apprehensive all at the same time.
Is Catherine dead? Was she not well off? Was she a servant? Is she a ghost? Who wrote her name all over the walls? I'm attempting a new style of annotating, which is prohibiting me from reading further and answering these questions. It consists of reading the text once, read it again and highlight key points or unfamiliar words, look up these words and make notes to myself. Sadly, I'm still in the highlighting stage.
I'm not too fond of ghost stories, but Heathcliff's forlorn and desperate reaction to this is making me hungry to read more.
I will admit that even this early on, Heathcliff is growing on me. The hopeless romantic sap that I am, I wanted to cry at his outburst to Catherine. Well that's all I've really got for today, so I'll go back to highlighting now.
Is Catherine dead? Was she not well off? Was she a servant? Is she a ghost? Who wrote her name all over the walls? I'm attempting a new style of annotating, which is prohibiting me from reading further and answering these questions. It consists of reading the text once, read it again and highlight key points or unfamiliar words, look up these words and make notes to myself. Sadly, I'm still in the highlighting stage.
I'm not too fond of ghost stories, but Heathcliff's forlorn and desperate reaction to this is making me hungry to read more.
I will admit that even this early on, Heathcliff is growing on me. The hopeless romantic sap that I am, I wanted to cry at his outburst to Catherine. Well that's all I've really got for today, so I'll go back to highlighting now.
Monday, November 15, 2010
1. Wuthering Heights
Started reading and annotating today. I have to say that you made me excited Ms.Sobrero! I LOVE Mr.Darcy, so from what you've told me, I have high hopes for Heathcliff.
So far I've been highlighting words I don't really recognize. Such as, "coalscuttles", "curs", "signet", and "bitch pointer". And I've gathered that the Heathcliff household is big on hunting from the various vicious, territorial dogs, and some of the words I didn't understand that I looked up.
I also noticed Hareton Earnshaw's name. I thought it was funny that in a heavy-hunting household his name had "hare" in it. Notice what you notice, as you said!
And I've just about made it to chapter 3, so I'll end there and continue reading.
So far I've been highlighting words I don't really recognize. Such as, "coalscuttles", "curs", "signet", and "bitch pointer". And I've gathered that the Heathcliff household is big on hunting from the various vicious, territorial dogs, and some of the words I didn't understand that I looked up.
I also noticed Hareton Earnshaw's name. I thought it was funny that in a heavy-hunting household his name had "hare" in it. Notice what you notice, as you said!
And I've just about made it to chapter 3, so I'll end there and continue reading.
Monday, August 16, 2010
20. All in all
Ironically enough, out of all the books we read. How to Read Literature Like A Professor was my favorite. Completely unexpected on my part.
I simply loved it. It definitely made all the past novels and stories I've read make sense, as well as sending off an alarm in my head as I read these stories after. I can't wait to see what new lessons, new books, etc. AP English has in store for us.
I simply loved it. It definitely made all the past novels and stories I've read make sense, as well as sending off an alarm in my head as I read these stories after. I can't wait to see what new lessons, new books, etc. AP English has in store for us.
19. What is the What
Book 2-3 and Overall Thoughts
Valentino was an absolute inspiration. He took the chance to leave Africa, not knowing what would await him. Instead, choosing to be the pilot of his own success and future.
This book served as a, somewhat, rude awakening. Here in the US, all I have to worry and complain about is whether my computer froze and when I'm getting an upgrade for my iPod. Those are nothing compared to those complaints, and dire situations happening elsewhere. So sheltered are we in America, that we overlook our languish ammenities and focus on the minor negatives in our lives. And yet, everyday in other countries, people's lives hang by a single thread, never knowing if they'll survive the day.
This book didn't need to overly garnish it's language. It simply was what it was. What you read, is what you got.
Valentino was an absolute inspiration. He took the chance to leave Africa, not knowing what would await him. Instead, choosing to be the pilot of his own success and future.
This book served as a, somewhat, rude awakening. Here in the US, all I have to worry and complain about is whether my computer froze and when I'm getting an upgrade for my iPod. Those are nothing compared to those complaints, and dire situations happening elsewhere. So sheltered are we in America, that we overlook our languish ammenities and focus on the minor negatives in our lives. And yet, everyday in other countries, people's lives hang by a single thread, never knowing if they'll survive the day.
This book didn't need to overly garnish it's language. It simply was what it was. What you read, is what you got.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
18. What is the What
Book 2-ch.19
Light skin. It has baffled and awed many an ethnic people, Valentino's people included. Whether it has to do with the color white being a color associated with purity and holiness, or the fact that it was our of the ordinary for most, I digress. The white skin struck the Sudanese as god-like and fragile, this causing them to be racist against themselves.
By today's standards, this struck me as odd, considering that many whom possess light skin wish to tan and darken it. No longer is light skin associated with nobility in our society. I don't see too many women shielding themselves from the sun with parasols and fans, instead they have skimp-ified their clothing and oiled themselves up with tanning oil. Oh how the tables have turned.
Light skin. It has baffled and awed many an ethnic people, Valentino's people included. Whether it has to do with the color white being a color associated with purity and holiness, or the fact that it was our of the ordinary for most, I digress. The white skin struck the Sudanese as god-like and fragile, this causing them to be racist against themselves.
By today's standards, this struck me as odd, considering that many whom possess light skin wish to tan and darken it. No longer is light skin associated with nobility in our society. I don't see too many women shielding themselves from the sun with parasols and fans, instead they have skimp-ified their clothing and oiled themselves up with tanning oil. Oh how the tables have turned.
18. What is the What
Book 2-ch.19
Light skin. It has baffled and awed many an ethnic people, Valentino's people included. Whether it has to do with the color white being a color associated with purity and holiness, or the fact that it was our of the ordinary for most, I digress. The white skin struck the Sudanese as god-like and fragile, this causing them to be racist against themselves.
By today's standards, this struck me as odd, considering that many whom possess light skin wish to tan and darken it. No longer is light skin associated with nobility in our society. I don't see too many women shielding themselves from the sun with parasols and fans, instead they have skimp-ified their clothing and oiled themselves up with tanning oil. Oh how the tables have turned.
Light skin. It has baffled and awed many an ethnic people, Valentino's people included. Whether it has to do with the color white being a color associated with purity and holiness, or the fact that it was our of the ordinary for most, I digress. The white skin struck the Sudanese as god-like and fragile, this causing them to be racist against themselves.
By today's standards, this struck me as odd, considering that many whom possess light skin wish to tan and darken it. No longer is light skin associated with nobility in our society. I don't see too many women shielding themselves from the sun with parasols and fans, instead they have skimp-ified their clothing and oiled themselves up with tanning oil. Oh how the tables have turned.
17. What is the What
Ch.11-book 2
A common theme I found in the books assigned this summer? Mortal peril. We are no longer leading through the pages of fairy tales, ladies and gents. We are onto the literaturebto burst our bubbles and makevour jaws drop to the floor.
If Valentino is one thing, and one thing only, it is adaptable. How he escaped the Sahara, murderous people and lions is beyond me. And the fact that he has the(in?)sanity to tackle a new country and custom completely floors me.
Conflict. It's presence is felt within every society and every racial group, the Sudanese included. They segregate themselves into tribes thus weakening their unity as a people. And the Sudanese shun those of a lower social class as those they see as belittling them with gifts, like Mary whose kindness was rejected.
A common theme I found in the books assigned this summer? Mortal peril. We are no longer leading through the pages of fairy tales, ladies and gents. We are onto the literaturebto burst our bubbles and makevour jaws drop to the floor.
If Valentino is one thing, and one thing only, it is adaptable. How he escaped the Sahara, murderous people and lions is beyond me. And the fact that he has the(in?)sanity to tackle a new country and custom completely floors me.
Conflict. It's presence is felt within every society and every racial group, the Sudanese included. They segregate themselves into tribes thus weakening their unity as a people. And the Sudanese shun those of a lower social class as those they see as belittling them with gifts, like Mary whose kindness was rejected.
16. What is the What
Ch.1-10
Now onto my last book. Seeing as all classes were assigned this book, I anticipated a high educational value. What I did not expect, however, was to become so emotionally enthrallef with it as I was with the Kite Runner. It evoked so many emotions within me, far more than I though possible from a school-assigned read, no offense to teachers.
It surprised me that Valentino would prefer Sudan over the United States. I agree that, in a lot of ways, the US is corrupt, but I do not consider it meritably evil as Valentino saw it. Although I will admit that I considered it ironic how the US is considered the land of oppurtunity and freedom, and yet many citizens live in squalor and many are subject to persectution and abuse everyday, making it neither inherently better or worse than any other country not in 3rd world condition.
Now onto my last book. Seeing as all classes were assigned this book, I anticipated a high educational value. What I did not expect, however, was to become so emotionally enthrallef with it as I was with the Kite Runner. It evoked so many emotions within me, far more than I though possible from a school-assigned read, no offense to teachers.
It surprised me that Valentino would prefer Sudan over the United States. I agree that, in a lot of ways, the US is corrupt, but I do not consider it meritably evil as Valentino saw it. Although I will admit that I considered it ironic how the US is considered the land of oppurtunity and freedom, and yet many citizens live in squalor and many are subject to persectution and abuse everyday, making it neither inherently better or worse than any other country not in 3rd world condition.
15. The Kite Runner
Ch.20-25
It was a bittersweet feeling reading Amir's search for Sohrab. It was a great thing he was doing for the departed Hassen and his young son, but knowing that he was mostly doing this for an ulterior motive, to atone for his sins and rid himself of guilt.
It made me sick how re Taliban degraded Sohrab, and to know that Assef didn't get what he deserved and actually rose to power belittling people, raping them, and killing them.
The ending thoroughly disappointed me with Sohrab's attempted suicide, his self hatred, and his silence. It's even more unsettling to not know for sure whether or not Amir and Soraya are able to adopt Sohrab.
In regards to Amir, I have conflicted feelings. I admire his resilience through all that he lived through and saw, but I still cannot comprehend how he was able to let Hassen's rape happen, and pushing him away after it occurred. Though his guilt and self-torment prove that he does have a heart and wishes that he had done something. All things considered, I think that he is a protagonist, though not necessarily a hero.
It was a bittersweet feeling reading Amir's search for Sohrab. It was a great thing he was doing for the departed Hassen and his young son, but knowing that he was mostly doing this for an ulterior motive, to atone for his sins and rid himself of guilt.
It made me sick how re Taliban degraded Sohrab, and to know that Assef didn't get what he deserved and actually rose to power belittling people, raping them, and killing them.
The ending thoroughly disappointed me with Sohrab's attempted suicide, his self hatred, and his silence. It's even more unsettling to not know for sure whether or not Amir and Soraya are able to adopt Sohrab.
In regards to Amir, I have conflicted feelings. I admire his resilience through all that he lived through and saw, but I still cannot comprehend how he was able to let Hassen's rape happen, and pushing him away after it occurred. Though his guilt and self-torment prove that he does have a heart and wishes that he had done something. All things considered, I think that he is a protagonist, though not necessarily a hero.
14. The Kite Runner
Ch. 16-20
I was shocked to find out that Hassen was Amir's illegitimate brother, and yet at the same time a few things began to make sense. I had wondered why Baba had paid for fixing Hassen's cleft lip and his confliction when Hassen and Ali left. I was disappointed in how Amir handled the news and didn't jump at the chance to attone for his sins by caring for Hassen's son and rescuing him from the orphanage.
But throughout all this, it was ironic how alike Amir and Baba really were. Both betrayed their best friend, and both wrestled with their guilt about this betrayal.
I was pleased when Amir finally consented to go and get Sohrab. And was humbled by Wahid's hospitality towards Amir, and by how Amir repaid him.
I was shocked to find out that Hassen was Amir's illegitimate brother, and yet at the same time a few things began to make sense. I had wondered why Baba had paid for fixing Hassen's cleft lip and his confliction when Hassen and Ali left. I was disappointed in how Amir handled the news and didn't jump at the chance to attone for his sins by caring for Hassen's son and rescuing him from the orphanage.
But throughout all this, it was ironic how alike Amir and Baba really were. Both betrayed their best friend, and both wrestled with their guilt about this betrayal.
I was pleased when Amir finally consented to go and get Sohrab. And was humbled by Wahid's hospitality towards Amir, and by how Amir repaid him.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Ch. 11-15
It was an odd thing to know that Amir lived in Fremont, close to where we live, and, relatively speaking, close to our present time period. As ignorant as it sounds, I couldn't believe that all these terrible were still going on even so late in the 20th century. It was a scary, bubble-bursting moment that just proved just because you don't see or witness something doesn't mean it isn't happening.
It made me happy that Amir was finally able to write and make a career out of it. As well as his blossoming infatuation with Soraya that eventually turned into a marriage that pleased Baba whom was on his deathbed.
When he returns to Pakistan I sincerely hoped that he could right the wrongs between himself and Hassen.
It was an odd thing to know that Amir lived in Fremont, close to where we live, and, relatively speaking, close to our present time period. As ignorant as it sounds, I couldn't believe that all these terrible were still going on even so late in the 20th century. It was a scary, bubble-bursting moment that just proved just because you don't see or witness something doesn't mean it isn't happening.
It made me happy that Amir was finally able to write and make a career out of it. As well as his blossoming infatuation with Soraya that eventually turned into a marriage that pleased Baba whom was on his deathbed.
When he returns to Pakistan I sincerely hoped that he could right the wrongs between himself and Hassen.
9. Their Eyes Were Watching God.
Sorry! I was internet-less for a couple days and had to pre-write these blogs on my computer, and somehow I missed Ch.16-19 of Their Eyes Were Watching God...so here's the post. Sorry for it being out of order, and on entry '10' it is supposed to say Ch. 20 and Thoughts
Ch. 16-19
When we were introduced to Mrs. Turner, I was appalled at her blatant disgust towards her own race and utter admiration to white people. I couldn’t understand her opinions or sympathize in the slightest. I wasn’t surprised that TC wanted Janie to end her friendship with her and was surprised that Janie didn’t do it herself sooner.
And yet again, my doubts towards TC resurfaced when he beat Janie to ‘show her whose boss’ in a fit of male bravado. But when the two are swept up in the flood of a storm and he saves Janie’s life, he doubts lowered once again. It shocked me, however, that the action that saved Janie’s life, would eventually lead to the end of TC’s life.
I cannot imagine ever being in Janie’s place and am amazed that she thought of changing it to empty bullet chambers so that of TC did go crazy and tried to shoot her, she’d have a chance to fight back. And when the time came, Janie did have to kill him which ended up with her on trial, all of her new friends against her. But after Janie gives her side which warms the hearts of the all-white jury, she is finally released and able to get TC buried.
Ch. 16-19
When we were introduced to Mrs. Turner, I was appalled at her blatant disgust towards her own race and utter admiration to white people. I couldn’t understand her opinions or sympathize in the slightest. I wasn’t surprised that TC wanted Janie to end her friendship with her and was surprised that Janie didn’t do it herself sooner.
And yet again, my doubts towards TC resurfaced when he beat Janie to ‘show her whose boss’ in a fit of male bravado. But when the two are swept up in the flood of a storm and he saves Janie’s life, he doubts lowered once again. It shocked me, however, that the action that saved Janie’s life, would eventually lead to the end of TC’s life.
I cannot imagine ever being in Janie’s place and am amazed that she thought of changing it to empty bullet chambers so that of TC did go crazy and tried to shoot her, she’d have a chance to fight back. And when the time came, Janie did have to kill him which ended up with her on trial, all of her new friends against her. But after Janie gives her side which warms the hearts of the all-white jury, she is finally released and able to get TC buried.
Friday, August 13, 2010
12. The Kite Runner
Ch. 6-10
We are introduced to the art of kite running. Which, to me, seemed not only dangerous, but a very odd game. I wasn’t surprised when Amir saw his winning of the tournament as a way to win over Baba. And Hassan’s dedication to his friend knew no bounds as he chased the last kite that Amir had managed to cut loose.
I was shocked, and near tears(I’m a very emotional reader), when I read what Assef did to Hassen, and that Amir had a chance to stand up for his friend, but chose to ran away and let his friend suffer the indignity in that alley. And again I was almost moved to tears when it was later revealed that Hassen knew all along that Amir had seen them there in the alley and chose to run.
It angers me even more that he pushes Hassen away as if Hassen had done something wrong. Hassen suffers silently with what was done to him, and Amir acts like a child. When Amir pelts Hassen with pomegranates, and asks for Hassen to hit him back, I am even further appalled at his very childish behavior and selfish need for redemption, by claiming that Hassen stole his birthday presents, and when Hassen admits to this false claim which leads to him and his father leaving.
We are introduced to the art of kite running. Which, to me, seemed not only dangerous, but a very odd game. I wasn’t surprised when Amir saw his winning of the tournament as a way to win over Baba. And Hassan’s dedication to his friend knew no bounds as he chased the last kite that Amir had managed to cut loose.
I was shocked, and near tears(I’m a very emotional reader), when I read what Assef did to Hassen, and that Amir had a chance to stand up for his friend, but chose to ran away and let his friend suffer the indignity in that alley. And again I was almost moved to tears when it was later revealed that Hassen knew all along that Amir had seen them there in the alley and chose to run.
It angers me even more that he pushes Hassen away as if Hassen had done something wrong. Hassen suffers silently with what was done to him, and Amir acts like a child. When Amir pelts Hassen with pomegranates, and asks for Hassen to hit him back, I am even further appalled at his very childish behavior and selfish need for redemption, by claiming that Hassen stole his birthday presents, and when Hassen admits to this false claim which leads to him and his father leaving.
11. The Kite Runner
Ch.1-5
I empathize with Amir in wanting to be what his father wants, though having to betray himself. But I also feel disappointed at his inability to refer to Hassan as a friend just because of their religious backgrounds. I was impressed in his writing abilities and the story he wrote. I felt so sorry for him when Baba paid him no attention, and irritated again at his racism towards Hassan.
But my irritation faded when Amir defended Hassan when a neighborhood bully was about to beat him up. I felt so proud of him when he finally recognized Hassan as his friend. When Baba has a doctor fix Hassan’s cleft lip, I smiled along with Hassan.
I empathize with Amir in wanting to be what his father wants, though having to betray himself. But I also feel disappointed at his inability to refer to Hassan as a friend just because of their religious backgrounds. I was impressed in his writing abilities and the story he wrote. I felt so sorry for him when Baba paid him no attention, and irritated again at his racism towards Hassan.
But my irritation faded when Amir defended Hassan when a neighborhood bully was about to beat him up. I felt so proud of him when he finally recognized Hassan as his friend. When Baba has a doctor fix Hassan’s cleft lip, I smiled along with Hassan.
10. Their Eyes Were Watching God
Chapter 19 and Thoughts
The immense transformation and journey that Janie went through throughout her life was simply unbelievable. She was married 3 times and on the 3rd time, she finally felt truly happy with her life.
I cannot imagine ever having the strength to live on after having to kill the love of my life, as Janie did. When Janie returns back to Eatonville, and the story finally ends where it started, we see the content Janie feels towards her life. And even though she is saddened by the absence of Tea Cake in her life, she knows that he will always be with her.
I can honestly say, that when I began reading this story, I did not think it would end this way. I thought the TC would end up being a crook and used her. It turned out to be the opposite. He loved and cared for her, though be it in his own way, and gradually earned my respect.
The immense transformation and journey that Janie went through throughout her life was simply unbelievable. She was married 3 times and on the 3rd time, she finally felt truly happy with her life.
I cannot imagine ever having the strength to live on after having to kill the love of my life, as Janie did. When Janie returns back to Eatonville, and the story finally ends where it started, we see the content Janie feels towards her life. And even though she is saddened by the absence of Tea Cake in her life, she knows that he will always be with her.
I can honestly say, that when I began reading this story, I did not think it would end this way. I thought the TC would end up being a crook and used her. It turned out to be the opposite. He loved and cared for her, though be it in his own way, and gradually earned my respect.
8. Their Eyes Were Watching God
Ch.11-15
I didn’t quite know what to think of Tea Cake. The beginning hints at foul play, yet he truly seemed to care for Janie and was distraught when she told him she only thought of him as a friend. Yet, he still pursued her with great resilience, and made her happier than she ever had been with Jody. He even went so far as to make their relationship public despite the rumors that they knew would surface.
I grew increasingly wary of him when after their marriage, Janie’s $200 and Tea Cake(TC) go missing. Even more so, when he comes back with a crazy story and vows to gamble and get it back. But when he returned with more money than he took, my doubts are quieted for the time being. Their new home in Everglades separated the two during the day because of TC’s work. When Janie joins him in the fields and works as well, I was happy for her and inspired by her indifference towards the opinions of others.
I am not impressed by how TC handled Nunkie. But not surprised at how Janie’s immense love for TC made her anger transform into passion.
I didn’t quite know what to think of Tea Cake. The beginning hints at foul play, yet he truly seemed to care for Janie and was distraught when she told him she only thought of him as a friend. Yet, he still pursued her with great resilience, and made her happier than she ever had been with Jody. He even went so far as to make their relationship public despite the rumors that they knew would surface.
I grew increasingly wary of him when after their marriage, Janie’s $200 and Tea Cake(TC) go missing. Even more so, when he comes back with a crazy story and vows to gamble and get it back. But when he returned with more money than he took, my doubts are quieted for the time being. Their new home in Everglades separated the two during the day because of TC’s work. When Janie joins him in the fields and works as well, I was happy for her and inspired by her indifference towards the opinions of others.
I am not impressed by how TC handled Nunkie. But not surprised at how Janie’s immense love for TC made her anger transform into passion.
7. Their Eyes Were Watching God
Ch.6-10
My hopes for Jody and Janie had completely gone down the tubes by the end of chapter 6. His utter disrespect angered me, as did Janie's silence. I was impressed with Jody when he bought the mule, but then disgusted by him when he forbade Janie of attending the mule's mock funeral. I was again outraged when he slapped her, and continued to limit and suppress her thoughts and contributions to conversation and interactions with others.
It’s not until Jody is literally on his deathbed that Janie is finally able to stand up to him and not only free herself of his domineering hold on her, but tell him just how imperfect he really is. When he dies she must mask her feelings of joy and independence so as to not raise suspicions.
But after the 6 month mourning period, she wears white, as custom to open herself up to suitors. But each advance is rebuffed because she is too fond of the independence, such feelings made me think how alike Queen Elizabeth I had felt centuries ago. It’s not until the illustrious Tea Cake finally makes an appearance that the story finally links back up to the mysterious beginning.
My hopes for Jody and Janie had completely gone down the tubes by the end of chapter 6. His utter disrespect angered me, as did Janie's silence. I was impressed with Jody when he bought the mule, but then disgusted by him when he forbade Janie of attending the mule's mock funeral. I was again outraged when he slapped her, and continued to limit and suppress her thoughts and contributions to conversation and interactions with others.
It’s not until Jody is literally on his deathbed that Janie is finally able to stand up to him and not only free herself of his domineering hold on her, but tell him just how imperfect he really is. When he dies she must mask her feelings of joy and independence so as to not raise suspicions.
But after the 6 month mourning period, she wears white, as custom to open herself up to suitors. But each advance is rebuffed because she is too fond of the independence, such feelings made me think how alike Queen Elizabeth I had felt centuries ago. It’s not until the illustrious Tea Cake finally makes an appearance that the story finally links back up to the mysterious beginning.
6. Their Eyes Were Watching God
Ch.1-5
The beginning of this book broke my heart. Even just in the beginning when Janie had to endure the cruel eyes and rumors of her neighbors, and when her grandmother, Nanny, reveals her past to her. And even though Nanny escaped her baby, when Leafy grew up and was raped as well, it’s simply unfair. As a young woman, I sympathize and fear for these kinds of instances and to read that rape occurred not only once, but twice to this family is heart wrenching.
I know that Nanny only has Janie’s best interests at heart and that this was the norm for this time period, but I can’t stand the fact that she’s having an arranged marriage and love is not a likely result. It angers me as well, that Logan accuses her and eventually makes her pull even farther away from her after a year of marriage and Nanny’s death. I had high hopes for Janie when Jody finally entered the picture and they left and soon married. Hopes, that were gradually dashed. I was disappointed that Jody’s appreciation of Janie soon diminished, and he kept her from speaking in the new town they lived in. It also irked me that the wealth and power in this new town was getting to Jody’s head, and in the way of his and Janie’s relationship.
The beginning of this book broke my heart. Even just in the beginning when Janie had to endure the cruel eyes and rumors of her neighbors, and when her grandmother, Nanny, reveals her past to her. And even though Nanny escaped her baby, when Leafy grew up and was raped as well, it’s simply unfair. As a young woman, I sympathize and fear for these kinds of instances and to read that rape occurred not only once, but twice to this family is heart wrenching.
I know that Nanny only has Janie’s best interests at heart and that this was the norm for this time period, but I can’t stand the fact that she’s having an arranged marriage and love is not a likely result. It angers me as well, that Logan accuses her and eventually makes her pull even farther away from her after a year of marriage and Nanny’s death. I had high hopes for Janie when Jody finally entered the picture and they left and soon married. Hopes, that were gradually dashed. I was disappointed that Jody’s appreciation of Janie soon diminished, and he kept her from speaking in the new town they lived in. It also irked me that the wealth and power in this new town was getting to Jody’s head, and in the way of his and Janie’s relationship.
5. How to Read Literature Like A Professor
There were just too many things in this book for me to end on. I finally understood the many inklings I had towards many scenes in the literature I’ve read, and their correspondence to the plot. This book is brilliant. I am so glad it was assigned this summer. It opened my eyes to a lot about literature.
The many biblical illusions I’ve read about finally make sense, as do the subtle innuendos, and irony. I feel like I can truly appreciate and comprehend the literature I read in the future because of this book.
The many biblical illusions I’ve read about finally make sense, as do the subtle innuendos, and irony. I feel like I can truly appreciate and comprehend the literature I read in the future because of this book.
4. How to Read Literature Like A Professor Ch.18-24
Baptism, as I perceive it is to be born again into the grace of God. It makes sense that whenever there is rain, boat capsizing, or any kind of accidental outing in water where one lives and has an epiphany, it is baptism. They often emerge from such instances with no vigor for life and an overall changed outlook on life.
Like Santa in the North Pole, when things symbolically go up, they’re considered good. But when things go south, that’s an entirely different story. It wasn’t really a surprise when I read the geography chapter that this was mentioned. When an author writes a story, it’s not necessarily the physical make up of an area that counts, but also the location itself, in respects to whether it’s on the northern/southern hemisphere. As well as season, as the next chapter emphasizes. Winter symbolizing cold, death, ending. Spring being new life, rebirth, and beginnings.
Like Santa in the North Pole, when things symbolically go up, they’re considered good. But when things go south, that’s an entirely different story. It wasn’t really a surprise when I read the geography chapter that this was mentioned. When an author writes a story, it’s not necessarily the physical make up of an area that counts, but also the location itself, in respects to whether it’s on the northern/southern hemisphere. As well as season, as the next chapter emphasizes. Winter symbolizing cold, death, ending. Spring being new life, rebirth, and beginnings.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
3. How to Read Literature Like a Professor
When I glanced over the Contents, I'm not going to lie. The ones that stood out to me were the chapters about sex. I had never really understood the necessity of a sex scene, or a hinted at affair in a book, so I was intrigued by the fact that two whole chapters where dedicated to the explanation of it(in obvious cases, of course, I understood since it would lead to a climactic scene of lies unraveling, but I digresss.)
The keys in the bowl example was something I was not expecting at all. If I had read the story, I wouldn't have gotten the underlying meaning if the author had not laid it out before me. I would've completely overlooked the subtle innuendo and just thought she was very tempermental about her bowl.
I do admit, however, I'm still unclear how sex does not equal sex, and these more subtle scenes are 'sexier' than actual sex. It's not the typical a+b=c equation present in literature. It's a roundabout way to hint and let the reader's mind go wild, so the method is quite effective, and elusive to the younger readers. I did not expect to read this chapter with a type of scientific, mathematical mindset, as proven at in my a+b=c thought.
The keys in the bowl example was something I was not expecting at all. If I had read the story, I wouldn't have gotten the underlying meaning if the author had not laid it out before me. I would've completely overlooked the subtle innuendo and just thought she was very tempermental about her bowl.
I do admit, however, I'm still unclear how sex does not equal sex, and these more subtle scenes are 'sexier' than actual sex. It's not the typical a+b=c equation present in literature. It's a roundabout way to hint and let the reader's mind go wild, so the method is quite effective, and elusive to the younger readers. I did not expect to read this chapter with a type of scientific, mathematical mindset, as proven at in my a+b=c thought.
2. How to Read Literature Like A Professor
In chapter 5, the author states, "there's no such thing as a wholly original work of literature". I cannot agree more. I aspire to be a writer myself, and am fully aware of the structure of a written piece of work. A short time after the author makes this statement, he makes an analogy that every story is an eel thrusting itself into a barrel of eels. Yes this eel may be slightly different, whether it is longer, shorter, etc. than the others, but that does not change the fact that it is an eel. For instance, when the movie Avatar came out, minds were absolutely blown. The script took nearly a decade to be written. And yet, even with the extraordinary characters, outlandish Pandora, and the intricate details it is very much like every story out there.
It's the way words are spun, strung together, and written that makes a story unique, though not entirely different. After the many centuries of literature to be compared to, there aren't many angles left to be explored, if any at all.
It's the way words are spun, strung together, and written that makes a story unique, though not entirely different. After the many centuries of literature to be compared to, there aren't many angles left to be explored, if any at all.
1.How to Read Literature Like A Professor
I'm going to be frank. When I first heard we were assigned this book, I was irritated and reluctant. I thought it would be boring, and a bunch of hoo-ha I already knew or would bore me to tears. I was very, very wrong. The first chapters had me hooked. It gave new perspectives to things I hadn't thought twice about. It also brought me back to my days back in middle and elementary school when I went to a Catholic school.
What got me was when the author said that the serphent 'seduced' Eve. Having been brought up in the super G-rated religious education I had been, I can honestly say I never thought of it that way. We just learned that Eve had succumbed to temptation. Seduction had never crossed my mind, and they had seemed separate things to me until now. It may seem like a small realization, but it was huge in my mind. The subtle biblical illusions in stories never really stood out in my mind, whether it be I that I was overly familiar with the Bible after 9 years of studying it I don't really know. But now in stories the 'seduction' quality makes sense to me, they are doing as Eve did, indulging in the apple.
What got me was when the author said that the serphent 'seduced' Eve. Having been brought up in the super G-rated religious education I had been, I can honestly say I never thought of it that way. We just learned that Eve had succumbed to temptation. Seduction had never crossed my mind, and they had seemed separate things to me until now. It may seem like a small realization, but it was huge in my mind. The subtle biblical illusions in stories never really stood out in my mind, whether it be I that I was overly familiar with the Bible after 9 years of studying it I don't really know. But now in stories the 'seduction' quality makes sense to me, they are doing as Eve did, indulging in the apple.
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