XC: 6 words

imagination brought me to be

Blog 12 November 28

Weather Importance

As I have been reading and working on the final project focused on Power, I have been wondering, why did Hogan begin with a hurricane. She began an interesting story with destruction. In my opinion, the story began with plenty of reality, meaning Omishto's tribe is dwindling, she also holds a big secret with her sister and a hurricane roars through. I thought the story would be more focused on the panther, but as we have read it has been killed. I think the panther is the cover up like most books hold. We are given a main point, but there's something deeper below similar to Fossil Road. What is the point? 

I believe Hogan was trying to relate every happening to the theme of destruction. Omishto's tribe is dying out as well as the panther. Additionally, Methuselah was destroyed by the hurricane as well as other wild life. We are learning that anything old starts to move on. For instance, Ama has not fought regarding her trial. I believe Hogan is inferring all things will end, but possibly not inside us. Physically, things are moving on, but we will always have a piece of identity through our time. The importance of the hurricane is that it relates to the Taiga tribe. Slowly, things are fading away. Florida or the tribe will sink below the earth. 

Reflection

Previously in high school, I would be given a reading assignment and then quizzed on the reading. Differently, through my blog, I was able to reflect and analyze the material in my own way based off the prompt. Instead of having to remember small details, I was able to think deeper without a worry regarding what color something was. Through the blog, I have started a learning base for analyzing and writing.

            Before each Tuesday, I would finish the reading and look to where to start my blog. From there I would start to rethink what I had read. Beginning the blogging process, I was too worried of summarizing my thoughts, so it wouldn’t be longer than a paragraph or too. For example, I am dissatisfied with my first work. http://thelifeandtimesofmairekate.blogspot.com/2016/08/significant-place.html It was the first blog and I lacked evidence and detail. I feel that it was too short for what was needed to start a relationship and show my potential. Because of the disappointment of my work, I wanted to do better. Moving forward, I compare my next blog. http://thelifeandtimesofmairekate.blogspot.com/2016/09/the-letterclose-reading.html

Before entering HUST, I don’t think I was very familiar with the process of close reading. In some way, I probably was taught something similar to the practice, but I did not attain the skill. From reading the second blog, it can be seen that I was writing as I followed the steps. I enjoy my second blog regarding Mary Cassatt’s painting of the Japanese woman. I feel I dug deep into my thoughts regarding the piece. I looked at the detail of the woman’s hair along with her letter. I wrote of the possible judgement she would receive from writing, so she is sealing it away, to not be seen by many. The second blog helped me begin the HUST process of thinking in regards to women and their place through history. As stated, I practiced close reading, which would carry throughout the class and most likely latter on.

Additionally, my fourth blog http://thelifeandtimesofmairekate.blogspot.com/2016/09/note-to-self.html is something I will like to carry with me through college and beyond. It was the start of our personal memoir unit. I considered the process difficult because it is a vulnerable process as well as I had never thought I would have something to offer. I learned that I did and do have something to offer. I consider my blog a place where classmates can learn as well as I can learn. It’s a place of reflection. I believe my fourth blog can be thoughtful to a child if worded in their regards. In relation to blog four, my fifth blog discussing Persepolis relates to identity, which can be found in our blogs. http://thelifeandtimesofmairekate.blogspot.com/2016/10/persepolis.html I found the blog to be very expressive, which is effective after reading or class. We are putting our ideas out there, which tend to have meaning to us. I have enjoyed learning new ideas and ways of processing through the blog and reading other blogs. It helps me to think deeper or to analyze the stories better. It doesn’t leave me so one sided. Even though, I found the blog to be very expressive, I definitely struggled getting my points across. I just left things hanging, in my opinion. http://thelifeandtimesofmairekate.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-thing-around-your-neck.html I find this posting to be weak. I feel it lacks detail or my full thought. This problem is evident in my bigger writings. It’s very bland rereading the post. I wish I would have had more energy in writing and being able to get my point across.

In review, I believe I have expanded my thought process and ways of writing. I think I have been able to attain a process of analyzing and reflecting. As said, I will need to improve on putting my evidence in relation to my ideas. All in all, I have begun my college writing career and hope I will continue to learn from myself and pears.

Extra Credit

Post-Election for Holidays

Most likely many citizens are confused and drained from the election. I used to catch myself thinking how the United States wanted the two candidates. All in all, the American people voted and Mr. Trump will be the President come January. Unfortunately, the election and result has caused a divide. Sadly, the divides have come up around campus as well as will most likely come up during dinner when we come home from break. In President Cervelli's words, "Where is the silver lining?". 

There is nothing I despise more than pain and anger between others. It makes things awkward and sad. We have let politics and a choice come between loved ones. I think our best shot at a silver lining is being truthful and respectful; it will reflect onto others, which can influence others to do the same. From the panel of beautiful speakers, it reminded me of what I learned in my Communications course. By being angry and judging, one will put up barriers between others. It will cause more suffering around us. We should look at differences as a way to learn and create bonds. When we encounter a disagreement, we should begin to listen without judgement or wanting to jump in and speak. One needs to let the other talk and express their emotions. Let the other know he/she is being heard. 

Additionally, conversations do not need to be arguments, especially when it is regarding politics. The conversation needs to be productive and inviting. Joining a conversation with different opinions doesn't mean you need to abandon your views, but let your views possibly be expanded. We all have probably been suffering a little from the election, so we must remember that we're all together. We all want to be valued, so engage in conversation around the dinner table this holiday season with compassion. Others will see and hopefully do the same. 

November 21

Panther Part II

Previously, I mentioned Ama's panther; I had predicted we will learn about her and the Taiga traditions as we encounter the panther. Since last class, we have met the panther. Along side Omishto, we are introduced to the panther, but suddenly Ama kills the creature (Hogan 65). How can one kill such a beautiful being? After, being with the dead panther the duo picks up to go home. We soon are introduced to Diane Soto and Omishto's family. How did all find out of the killing? Did the town know like the forrest did right after Ama shot the panther or did Diane Soto? 

Ama and Omishto understand the grand event that just occurred. They killed an endangered animal. Omishto is uncomfortable, "I don't feel right in the midst of this stillness and death, and Ama knows it...I look at the sky and I am sorry to be a human" (Hogan 66). Before the hunt, I was intrigued how their traditions believed they were an animal as well as human. They were connected to another being or way of life. Stated before, Ama was a part of the panther. It makes me wonder thinking on my previous blog if Ama has forgotten her beliefs. I don't want to believe so, but why would she kill a part of herself? After the kill, Ama speaks with her friend, the panther, even though she just murdered the creature. In her defense, the creature was starving and old, but she threw away her beliefs of being connected to the Earth. 

Omishto narrates, "it seems it is the whole world that has fallen...it has fallen, this poisoned, cut world. It has fallen in a way that means this place is taken down a notch...And betrayed" (Hogan84-85). This narration Omishto speaks of lets readers reflect on what has transpired. In my opinion, we were introduced to a divided world between old and new traditions. This section has transpired into an equal level of destruction among all. Reflecting on today, do we hold any old practices? I believe we can hold onto valued traditions, for example, religion or cultural cookings; I do find it to be difficult to be swept up into modernism. It's exciting and new, which intrigues people. In relation to Power I'm baffled that Ama could destroy a creature she shared things with. She was relaxed when the police arrived. 

With the arrival of the police, it makes me wonder how they found out about the act. Who else is living among the deep trees and vines? Diane Soto was seen by Donna and Mama and Soto was said to have made a phone call. I think it's peculiar that a woman who has lived far away from town has made an adventure to town to call. Abraham Swallow was killed by an unknown force. I don't want to make any assumptions, but I'm curious of what we will learn of the Taiga land that is starting to disappear. What are the powers the tribe holds? 

Power

The Idea of New vs Old

In Translations, Yolland and Lancey have come to Ireland in regards of changing it from old Irish, Gaelic, to English. Similarly, I see a relation to Ama's and Omishto's mother's differences in old and new ways. Ama follows the values of the Taigas unlike Omishto' mother. 

In general, the community is being pushed around by the modernizing world surrounding the Taiga land. Their water is contaminated and overlaid by cement paths that houses extinct animals underneath, "Fossil Road" (Hogan 5).  Alike, the English soldiers come to Ballybeg to change the names of the areas as well as to bring the English language to the citizens. Both communities are being directed by an outside source that has no connection the communities. Per usual, there are some citizens that are indifferent regarding the changes while some like to hold onto old traditions or dislike the ordering from someone else. Alma holds onto old traditions while Omishto's mother would move on from the Taiga values. 

Specifically, Ama is far from the fast moving world, "kerosene light shines out from Ama's windows...it's the kind of light that makes you think that Ama, like the rivers, dropped out of time"(Hogan 8). She stands not running from the powers of the bigger force. She lives among animals and nature that are starting points of stories that she speaks of. She speaks calmly of history as well as the land around her. Ama embraces the panther that roams the area and is an elder to their clan

Differently, Mother wants to embrace both the old traditions and the modern ones because she lacks "grace and heart" while Ama carries love for her traditions and beliefs (Hogan 15-16). In relation to Ama, "Mama's made her choices and they are different"(Hogan 16). I believe mother can relate to Owen who sits between both sides. They both are wanting to find a happy medium. As well, Mother can be similar to Maire who are willing to flee away from their homeland for something modern. 

Ama is rare among the community and modernizing world. She stays away from the changing ways and embodies the landscape around her that is filled with history of her tribe. She lacks material things, but carries something that the world doesn't. She is not worried or troubled by the changes unlike Manus is in Translations. In my opinion, Ama can be related to Hugh who understands the changes, but stands by their practices.

Together both literary works contain themes of progressing worlds with an outside force. As said, some with follow as some will stick to their values and traditions. I think we will see this progress as we meet Ama's panther. 

Blog 9- Translations

Do Maire and Yolland truly love each other? 
Does love exist with only sight and no communication? 

In class, we discussed the idea of love at first sight. In Translations, Maire and Yolland form this sort of relationship as they are divided by languages and countries. Regarding Maire and Yolland's relationship, I think it would be quite hard for them to be truly in love. Mentioned in class, both are intrigued by the idea of love, which they lacked. Both were in search of freedom, which lead them to find a sense of freedom in each other. I think this feeling would boil over and they would come to terms there is too much that hinders their relationship. Both their countries are not fond of one another as well as the citizens don't care for either culture. Their feelings towards each other would hurt and divide their family and friends; they would only have one another. By it only being the duo, it would mean they would have to let go of things. Most importantly, they didn't understand each other. All they shared was touch and a liking of their voices, which is common because it is not normal to them. Soon their language and barrier of communication would grow old.  In my opinion, I predicted them growing bored of the idea or feelings they carried.

In comparison, I think it is possible for some to find love at first sight. It is rather rare and I think this idea is fairly died out. Today things are too complicated. I believe the idea of love at first sight was possible a while ago before advanced technology. There are too many distractions today. Additionally, life is much easier today, which adds to the lack of respect. I believe older folks tend to have more respect because they have been through more that brought them understanding and compassion. Today, children get a good majority of what they want. I think it would be hard for someone to find what they want just by sight. I think it possible to be attracted to someone and then find out the two are a great match. But it's much more difficult with the lack of compassion.

Finally, including both the play and today, in any relaitonship there needs to be communication. It takes conversation to find common ground and true feelings that could last a life time. Through communication, I believe, can park a light in someone towards another and with time the light can grow deeper. Sight can help ignite passion, but love is too strong to be based off a look. It is rather lucky to have sight lead to love forever.

Map

I wanted to stick with the idea of old maps, so I decided to search until I found one that was interesting. I found this map of early North America or what was thought as the world. At the very top of the map, the green represents Antartica or Arctique stated on the map. Flowing south the map states the tan area to be France as well as to the left of France, it is said to be Canada. The pink represents Florida or Floride. To the left in green is Mexico. Comparing from today, we know this is very underdeveloped. In my opinion, this map is of French Exploration. I think this because Spain was the first country to send explorers to find other land or Asia. They probably landed near Florida or Mexico and thought they had sailed the world. Additionally, I think it was French due to the French language on the map. Based on pass experience, I think explorers developed maps as they went, meaning as they kept finding land and people. I'm sure they meet natives to help them with names of the area. Additionally, I think as the explorers traveled they would mark the land quality. 

For the country of France and many other countries, I expect the leaders of France wanted the explorers to find land for France to take control of as well as to find goods to take advantage of. They would need to make maps for their leaders in France. They needed to be exact with ports and streams. As well, they need to show all the land that adds to the area. To conclude, I think the map represents the development and ambition of France. They wanted to sail the world and they needed to map it. 

The Thing Around Your Neck

The chapter, "The Thing Around Your Neck", is told as if its Akunna's self conscious or voice inside. The voice is reiterating her actions and thought process. The narrator states, "you said okay, no problem" in regards to the family's wishes. There is no use of the words I or she towards the Akunna. The narrator speaks in the past as if she is going over events in thinking of how she can learn or teach. I think the chapter as a second person narrative in regards to Akunna's immigration to America. It starts off with an expectation she had envisioned with Americans owing guns, homes and cars, but the tone reflects that wasn't the case looking back. Through out the chapter we are learning as she did. We are lead down Akunna's life path guided by her reflection. I find Adichie's way of writing this is effortless and moving for a reader. 

We are given hope as did Akunna, but soon turned to a scene of her alone with something there wanting to end her. I think we can see ourselves in this form of writing. We are given hope with a new situation for example college, but as time progresses it's not sunshine because we get consumed by our new surroundings. Akunna is feeling trapped in a tiny, shabby, strange environment; her self conscious tells us this by stating, "something would wrap itself around you neck...nearly choked you". The voice is telling us what happened in Akunna's life at the time, but then continues on with the thing disappearing with time.  We are told of love and a new job for her. This writing is a self reflection, but also a story for us. Possibly, the voice is telling us and Akunna of what happened because possibly, she may not remember. 

Opening the book readers are wondering what is the thing around the neck. I came upon the Akunna's encounter with it and it's so simple to the chapter, but so interesting. I find the whole chapter's point of view fascinating. We are in Akunna's mind process of everything that happened. We see her thought of America soon change into something not so luxurious. We reflect on what she did. We are listening to Akunna's memory speak to us and her about her self survival. 

Persepolis Film

I have never been into graphic novels or comic books. It has always been hard for me to like because I would tend to get bored. So, knowing we would be watching a film set up in this manner made me a little uneasy. But I was also anticipating that it could help me clear up feelings towards the reading. At times I struggled following the history as well as Marjane. I was glad to find that the film did help clear up the plot as well as the character's feelings and actions. I like film because they put characters in movement and you get to hear and see it play out. But it was helpful reading before hand because the book was vey well done; with that I think the movie is well done too. I would assume she helped with the process of creation. In my opinion, it really hasn't left out anything major. The things that stuck out to me in the book have been mentioned in the film. Sadly, with films it can be hard to stop and reflect unlike reading you can put the book down. 

I have enjoyed how the film still uses the work of color or grey scale. It allows emotions to move with the character. It represents Marjane's growing up process. It also can reflect the culture in the background and the events of Iran. Really, I think the scenes follow the book well and enjoy having things explained more. It brings a deeper understanding. 

Persepolis

Identity 

"Veiled and separated" Marji in amongst a revolution that frames her to be veiled and demanded along a religious path (4). This path is not of her choosing because before she was of her own religion. She thought she were to be a prophet; her identity was a prophet, one who was sent to preach for God. As a very young child her life was centered on the Lord and His plan for her. The first few pages show God entering into her view.

But soon her prophet identity was casted away due to the revolution; then God was casted away. She was left empty as her land collapsed around her (71). She was to be veiled from education, expression and protest. There was a certain persona expected of an Iran woman, but Marji lacked that. She soon developed a love for Western culture like music and accessories. But this was disliked by her cities culture, but it was her personal identity.

Her development as a person had been influenced by war and Iran's rulings. In the beginning she believed that God had sent her to help and bring peace amongst her until an important figure was taken from her. Soon anger fled over her in regard to the surroundings. She is torn of the rules inflicted on her, but wants to defend her country. She is against war as well as the revolutions rulings. She is being torn in directions of identity. Her dislike of the rules regarding women make her stand out, but as she grows she starts to conform to her new surroundings in Switzerland. For example, she follows along with tripping, but doesn't enjoy partying. As well she speaks her opinion on war in Iran and outsides the border. Marji battles with her identity of going against the grain or conforming. She is an Iran women who is blessed with nice things, but some things do not agree with the veil. 

Note To Self

I'm still very young and compared to Maya Angelou not as experienced or developed. I don't know if I have a lot to give to a younger self, but I wish to try. Maya Angelou said to find a piece of art and to admire it. Right now I appreciate movies as an art and I enjoyed them as a child, but not with actual thought and feeling.


Dear first grade Maire Kate,

You are probably too young to even understand this, but I know mom would help you. You enjoy movies and see characters then go and enjoy acting them out. As you grow don't lose that love with movies, but instead of acting them out, learn from them. I'm still not proud of us acting as a "mean girl" or "popular girl". I would love for you to understand that popularity doesn't matter. Please don't find joy in bossing kids on the playground or wanting people to follow you around. It's mean and not pretty. You will soon regret it and get a taste of rudeness. But I'm also proud that you will grow out of it; sadly, you will get a taste of it as you grow, but don't let it bring you down. I wish for you to learn young and have your eyes opened. Then again you will become aware of things as you grow. I just don't wish regret upon us and if I could change that mean act I would.

When the eye opening act comes don't wish pain upon yourself because you are so much more than the pain inside you. It stinks that we are given moments of conflict and despair, but it will be worth it. Don't lose your love for movies because they will bring joy and creativity; even as you grow that love for movies will develop into more. I also ask of you to stop and appreciate all around you because in those moments of despair you will need what you have. You are so blessed. Not just with a loving family, but with a school filled with people and ways of learning and development. Stop thinking of yourself as the popular or mean girls did, but stop and listen or speak with someone you wouldn't. You will learn you're a better person if you put yourself last in certain situations. Give everyone a chance even if others around you aren't because they will see your kindness and confidence to reach out. Overall learn to learn.

P.S. I recommend you save this letter and reread it each school year.

Girl Interrupted

Daisy allowing visitors scene

POSTED, no trespassing! Susanna stands outside Daisy's private wishing to offer Daisy laxatives. Laxatives being a help to patients with eating disorders, Daisy lets Susanna enter; as she enters the camera focuses to Lisa who is always interested in the wards doings. Soon the scene is turned to Lisa running the show between the three of them. Daisy is desperate for laxatives while Susanna is willing to give it to her, Lisa doesn't quite agree. Susanna gives the laxative, Daisy gives the valium and Lisa gets the valium. Ending with Daisy getting busted with her chicken under the bed; once she reaches five Valerie makes her throw them out.

All the ladies are in need of something; that is why they have been sent to Claymoore. When digesting this scene I think why are Daisy, Lisa and Susanna there? Through a doctor's scope Daisy has an eating disorder. Lisa is a sociopath and Susanna has multiple personality disorder. But why be sent somewhere when you already have what you need?

Daisy is in need of laxatives to fake that she is eating. Even though she hides chickens that her father brings under her bed. She tares them apart like a ritual and dumps it until Valerie makes her throw them out. Why is she there when the nurse doesn't even attempt to help her? Is Claymoore's way of helping by not giving her laxatives? She can't eat or poop in front of anyone, so she needs Susanna. As for Susanna why was she seeking friendship from a girl that would be leaving? Soon Lisa comes in and runs the group. Daisy gets her laxatives as Lisa receives the valium, while Susanna gets approval from Lisa. Something that Lisa desires, control.

Daisy's family is wasting money on Claymoore and soon they will waste money on an apartment for her; Daisy is not bettering herself because she gets everything she wants. I'm still pondering if Susanna got what she wished by entering Daisy's room. I think she received a confidant in Lisa, but Lisa just wants to control the area. She had a "buddy" prior to her escape that is soon replaced by Susanna do to Lisa's return. All will end up hurt if they continue to get what they want. Claymoore is a rabbit hole of money loss and relationships behind bars.

The scene shows how there is no happy ending with Claymoore. I feel as if the ladies will still be washed up when they leave. They can escape when they want or leave if possible. There is no benefit besides a small vacation with empathy because you connect with other women. It's unrealistic. In the words of Lisa "that's fucked up". Messed up that Daisy can sort chicken and store it under her bed. Messed up that Susanna is getting comfortable as the cab driver advised her not to. Messed up that Lisa escapes and is able to come back with no problem.

The Letter~Close Reading

September 5, 2016
Close Reading on The Letter by Mary Cassatt  

Oddly when I first saw this painting I thought ‘why is she eating the envelope?’. Then it was stated that she is sealing the envelope to be sent. The painting is done by Mary Cassatt around the time of 1890 or 1891. Her ideas of seclusion and inequality of women in society are brought to life through her Japanese themed piece. Cassatt has painted a woman alone with her letter, preparing to send it off. The woman is of Japanese culture due to her patterned dress and patterned wallpaper. The lady is also made with black hair that is a common Japanese trait. Cassatt has made her our subject and brings viewers to think is this another woman trapped, dwindled by society?  

Viewers are given another possible piece regarding seclusion for women. Our subject is of course alone and in my opinion lost. Her eyes are casted down, possibly over thinking her newly written letter. Stated in A Room of One’s Own, for women to express oneself through writing she would need a private room and money. Both items were not popular among women in this time frame as it was a male dominated culture. “the inferiority of women, for if they were not inferior, they would cease to enlarge.” (Wolfe 36). This quote explains how men dominate women for men to be superior. In general, men would not exist without women, but men take the credit for plenty. With that women were not known for anything than being at home.

As stated before, I thought she was eating the envelope. This comment is strange and highly unlikely, but it makes me consider what if she did consider destroying the letter. Viewers imaginations can wander far with what she could have written. In our previous readings in class, it was uncommon for women to be public of their thoughts and writings. They lived in secret due to men would judge and ridicule them. With the woman’s eyes being cast down, did she feel anxious to send the letter? She is clearly gazing upon it and she is alone. Was there doubt among her? Her hair is faded; we can infer that she has experience of her world. But was her life lived?

Cassatt’s piece like most paintings leave us to imagine. Imagine what her life was like as a Japanese woman in a time of male domination. Cassatt adds to the remembrance of women’s old rights. This woman had thoughts and hopefully she is getting them out through her letter. We are able to reflect on the possibilities and strength woman hold. Women truly dominated man even though that idea was hidden among society. I leave on this quote “an enormous body of masculine opinion to the effect that nothing could be expected of women intellectually." (Woolf 54). Males put down women out of fear.