Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Hero: Post B : #6
In this section of Hero by Perry Moore, Thom is dropped from the league. One main hero was brutally murdered for no apparent reason. The league was forced to full alert, but for a week or so, nothing came of this occasion. But still the league conducted a full investigation. Thom’s team was assigned to capture a group of villains by the boat docks for questioning. Once caught, and bought in they were evaluated and one was sought guilty with no evidence. But once Thom took a closer look at the convict, he realized he had been making-out with him in his car during the murder, so he confessed. After admitting his sexuality from an investigation, he was asked to leave. After which Spectrum one of the league’s main heroes is mysteriously murdered in his lab. But before he was killed he discovered that the murderer could read minds and that the whole world was in danger. The league began to freak –out, with new policies and rules, one of which that each hero much at ALL times were his ring. Even after his team was disassembled, they continued their investigation. They went to talk to the Spectrums daughter at a school fair. But once arriving, they were met with a black cloud. Then one by one voices began to enter their heads. “Agony seized my brain, but my powers quickly took over and my hands began to sizzle on my head. Then my stomach dropped at a sudden realization. Those weren’t my thoughts. Someone was putting them in my head.”(338) Thom also discovered a new power of his, the ability to stop mind reading.
Hero: Post A : #6
Vocab:
:::Arbitrarily (203) = depending on individual discretion (as of a judge) and not fixed by law
:::Demeanor (226) = behavior toward others: outward manner
Analysis:
1.“she was massaging her temples like she had a major migraine.”(335) This is obviously an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Ruth’s massaging to as if she had a major head pain.
2.“She grimaced like her head hurt- or like she was seeing something else.”(337) This is also an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Ruth’s grimacing to as if she was having a vision.
3.“I saw it cover and wrap her in a giant, clear plastic tarp, like she was being spooled into a huge roll of Saran wrap at ultrafast speed.”(339) This is also an finally another example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Scarlette’s almost death to as if she was being wrapped in Saran wrap.
Quote:
- - -“the person he thought had been killing the heroes could read minds.”(337) This is an extremely important quote because it gives the readers a taste of what is about to come in Hero by Perry Moore. At this point, rare occasions have been happening where Heroes are being murdered randomly. This helps explains how some chosen have been killed and not others. The victims knew the murder’s identity.
:::Arbitrarily (203) = depending on individual discretion (as of a judge) and not fixed by law
:::Demeanor (226) = behavior toward others: outward manner
Analysis:
1.“she was massaging her temples like she had a major migraine.”(335) This is obviously an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Ruth’s massaging to as if she had a major head pain.
2.“She grimaced like her head hurt- or like she was seeing something else.”(337) This is also an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Ruth’s grimacing to as if she was having a vision.
3.“I saw it cover and wrap her in a giant, clear plastic tarp, like she was being spooled into a huge roll of Saran wrap at ultrafast speed.”(339) This is also an finally another example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing Scarlette’s almost death to as if she was being wrapped in Saran wrap.
Quote:
- - -“the person he thought had been killing the heroes could read minds.”(337) This is an extremely important quote because it gives the readers a taste of what is about to come in Hero by Perry Moore. At this point, rare occasions have been happening where Heroes are being murdered randomly. This helps explains how some chosen have been killed and not others. The victims knew the murder’s identity.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Hero: Post B : #5
Dear Author,
First of all I would like to say that I am increasingly enjoying your novel. Thom is extremely relatable. He is a teenager actually has problems and drama, that is not sometimes showed in teen novels. Thom deals with his shy personality, sexuality, and family issues. All teens deal with theses issues and it is nice to actual see someone writing about it. One conflict that really interested me was at the team games. Just as Thom was about the claim his glory and price, his dad interrupts him. After, his dad is quite mad, frustrated, and concerned. He worries that his son may evolve into a miniature Justice. As Thom’s father drags his son out of the fight simulator, Justice tries to stop him. Dad immediately punches him across the face, he falls to the ground. But as Justice is a superheroes he was barely hurt. Although Thom knew from previous experiences that he should never interfere with his father while his angry, he did it anyways. Thom said, “I waited for the impact, but it didn’t come. When I finally gathered the courage to open my eyes, I looked through my fingers and saw my dad. His paternal instinct had won out,”(197) Thom had barely escaped his father survival instincts. I thought this was important, because a lot of teenagers feel the same way with their parents and can relate easily.
Sincerely,
CM:]
First of all I would like to say that I am increasingly enjoying your novel. Thom is extremely relatable. He is a teenager actually has problems and drama, that is not sometimes showed in teen novels. Thom deals with his shy personality, sexuality, and family issues. All teens deal with theses issues and it is nice to actual see someone writing about it. One conflict that really interested me was at the team games. Just as Thom was about the claim his glory and price, his dad interrupts him. After, his dad is quite mad, frustrated, and concerned. He worries that his son may evolve into a miniature Justice. As Thom’s father drags his son out of the fight simulator, Justice tries to stop him. Dad immediately punches him across the face, he falls to the ground. But as Justice is a superheroes he was barely hurt. Although Thom knew from previous experiences that he should never interfere with his father while his angry, he did it anyways. Thom said, “I waited for the impact, but it didn’t come. When I finally gathered the courage to open my eyes, I looked through my fingers and saw my dad. His paternal instinct had won out,”(197) Thom had barely escaped his father survival instincts. I thought this was important, because a lot of teenagers feel the same way with their parents and can relate easily.
Sincerely,
CM:]
Hero: Post A : #5
Vocab:
~~Beowulf (191) = a legendary Geatish warrior and hero of the Old English poem
~~Subterfuge (189) = deception by artifice or stratagem in order to conceal, escape, or evade
Analysis:
- - -“Dad’s head whipped around and he pushed Uberman away, the way a drunk in a bar would start a fight with someone who didn’t see it coming.”(194) This is an example of a simile because the author compares Dad’s pushing to a bar fight, without using like or as.
- - -“He held his hand up like a teacher cautioning a hyper child to take a time-out.”(196)This is obviously an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing his hand to a teacher’s.
- - -“That look reminded me of the way he’d stared at me after the basketball game where we all pretended not to hear the kid who called me the gay guy.”(197) This is an instance of a simile because the author compares looks while not using like or as.
Quote:
~~~~“Maybe he was beginning to believe there was s place for his son on the very team he so hated.”(196)This quote is significant because it shows Thom’s rebellious ways and his maturity. Thom every since he was a child had followed in his father’s footsteps, until now. It shows a change in how Thom is beginning to become independent. This also foreshadows his gay announcement and running away.
~~Beowulf (191) = a legendary Geatish warrior and hero of the Old English poem
~~Subterfuge (189) = deception by artifice or stratagem in order to conceal, escape, or evade
Analysis:
- - -“Dad’s head whipped around and he pushed Uberman away, the way a drunk in a bar would start a fight with someone who didn’t see it coming.”(194) This is an example of a simile because the author compares Dad’s pushing to a bar fight, without using like or as.
- - -“He held his hand up like a teacher cautioning a hyper child to take a time-out.”(196)This is obviously an example of a metaphor because the author uses like or as while comparing his hand to a teacher’s.
- - -“That look reminded me of the way he’d stared at me after the basketball game where we all pretended not to hear the kid who called me the gay guy.”(197) This is an instance of a simile because the author compares looks while not using like or as.
Quote:
~~~~“Maybe he was beginning to believe there was s place for his son on the very team he so hated.”(196)This quote is significant because it shows Thom’s rebellious ways and his maturity. Thom every since he was a child had followed in his father’s footsteps, until now. It shows a change in how Thom is beginning to become independent. This also foreshadows his gay announcement and running away.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Hero: Post B: #4
After the stressful try-outs and evaluations, Thom had finally made the preliminary team. This team would consist of five brand new heroes and one league member. Thom’s leader was Golden Boy. The person he had grown an incredible dislike for throughout the try-outs. Golden Boy always seems to try to bring Thom down. He just simply could not conclude why Golden Boy dreaded him so much. This team was not the only one formed, there were others too. These teams would be competing against each other for a spot on the league. After many days of preparation, the team set out on their first mission. They were to take care of the wreaking balls that were robbing a bank. They tried a pattern, but when Golden Boy got infected by Typhoid Larry, it all went down hill. Somehow Thom ended up being thrown into the next door hospital children’s burn unit by Scarlet. After seeing his team below in despair, Thom had all of the children connect hands, he then produced enough power to short-out half of the city. But because of his healing strength, he was able to heal the children’s severe burns. The team then recovered and set out on a day of fun at the League head quarters, the team would play non-power game like capture the flag in the simulator. All of Thom’s team mates had been tagged out and he was the last man standing. But he somehow captured the flag and was running towards the finish line; he dove barely missing the opponents’ bodies. Then ready to show his amazing victory, Thom brought the flag above his head and started to thrust the pole towards the ground. A large hand reached out his hand and threw it to the side, it was his dad. “I know everything…Out of all the times I’d seen him fly into a rage, I‘d never seen him this angry.”(193) his father had finally found-out his secret.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
On the Waterfront
Caitie Morris
Enr.English 10
Mrs.Burgess
11/27/07
On the Waterfront
~~~On the Waterfront was an extremely enjoyable and influential movie. This film was incredibly entertaining because it gave its audience something to think about. Terry Malloy had to make the ultimate decision, whether to pursue justice and have his brother murdered or cover-up a murder and live with his decision. This film was also effective because it touched many different types of audiences and people. Despite its black and white colors, this film was vivid and colorful. It had moments that you wanted to laugh, cry, and dance at the same time. This movie was effective because it was relatable, vivid, and enjoyable.
~~~The literary aspects such as setting, symbols, and themes, from On the Waterfront played a large role in the movie. An example of the setting affected the film is in the outdoor scene where Terry is talking to Father Barry. The setting was harsh with dead trees and dirty snow. This unwelcoming scenery turned a normal argument into a cruel and relentless debate. Another literary aspect that affects this film is the symbols. One fairly important symbol is the music beat from the beginning to the end of the wedding dance. When the music first commenced it was simple and slow, showing Edie and Terry’s separation. As Terry and Edie spend more and more time dancing and getting to know each other, the beat gradually climbed. A third example of an influential aspect is the themes. A very important theme that arose throughout the film is do not judge a book by its cover. Edie learned this particular idea from when she first met Terry and thought of him as a worthless bum to finally beginning to fall in love with him. In conclusion, the literary features such as setting, symbols, and themes, played a bulky role in this motion picture.
~~~The dramatic aspects such as actors and costumes played an important role in On the Waterfront‘s mood and image. Important casting decisions arise when producing a movie, but when the directors chose Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint, and Karl Malden, they made the right choices. Marlon Brandon played the main lead of the character, Terry Malloy, very well not only because of his physical characteristics but also because of his acting style. Marlon was a perfect match when it came to his character. Terry had sad eyes that showed his caring nature, his bad boy image, and his boxer face, all added to Marlon’s acting success. But Marlon’s hot bod was not the only thing that aided his impersonation of Terry but also his acting style. Marlon would sometimes end his sentenced in a desperate or whining tone, which would Terry as being somewhat childish and uncomfortable with his actions. Another characteristic of Marlon’s acting that rubbed off on Terry’s character was his stance. Marlon would stand somewhat hunched over boxing position, which never let the audience to forget Terry’s past career. A second well selected actor was Eva Marie Saint. This actress not only portrayed her character, Edie Doyle physically but also with her acting style. Eva showed Edie to be innocent and untainted. This is shown by how Eva would talk like an innocent and untainted child with her high and questioning voice. Eva also showed Edie very well by her physique. Eva had bright blonde hair and a paler complexion; this gave the viewers a sense of holiness or purity. A third example of a well chosen actor was Karl Malden for the character of Father Barry. Karl Malden was tall; this height advantage gave the audience a sense of nobility for Father Barry compared to the workers. Karl also acted this part very well with his powerful, low voice and stance. Father Barry stood tall and straight, this showed his significance in the workers’ lives. The casting selections were not the only important dramatic aspect of On the Waterfront, the costume choosing also play a large role in the movie’s image. Some costume varieties that aided in their character’s representation was for Terry Malloy and Edie Doyle. Terry’s costume of a plaid, ragged coat was important because it showed how Terry was a low key, relatable guy. This strengthened the audience’s connection with Terry, and in turn increased their happiness at the happy ending. A second character that was influenced by her outfit was Edie Doyle. This actress wore a buttoned up covering coat. This selection showed her tightly strung personality and untrusting ways. The dramatic aspects in On the Waterfront played a huge role in the movie’s mood and image, by giving further insight.
~~~The cinematic aspects of On the Waterfront also played a huge role in the mood and image of this well known film. One cinematic aspect that greatly influenced this movie was the low shot. An example of this is when Terry Malloy is looking up at Edie Doyle on a higher ledge. This low angle gives the perception that in the eyes of Terry, Edie is an object of desire. It also gives the viewers the sense that Edie is above the “common” worker or mob, Terry, and that in turn she will have more influence. A second deeply important cinematic feature is the use of lighting. An example of this is in the pool table room scene where a spotlight shines on Johnny Friendly, the mob boss. This lighting effect shows how Johnny is more important and powerful then everyone else in the room (mob). This also shows how Johnny is in the spotlight and the public eye more often than the other mob participants. This also foreshadowed Johnny’s significantly more emotional fight scene towards Terry than the other mobsters. A third example of an influential cinematic aspect is when the bosses are looking down on the workers after they had thrown the time chips on the ground. This scene showed the evident separation between the bosses and the union workers. The fashion in which the bosses peered down upon the workers illustrates their perceptions of how they are of a higher grade and cannot be touched by the union worker’s and their issues. Theses cinematic features enhanced the film’s overall mood and image.
~~~Arthur Miller’s All My Sons is very similar to On the Waterfront when it comes to their ethical dilemmas. The protagonist, Joe Keller and Terry Malloy both had to make the ultimate decision between their families or the truth. But the way in which theses important characters reacted was anything but similar. Joe Keller chose his family, instead of saving the lives of twenty-one pilots. But Terry Malloy, he chose the truth. Instead of saving himself or his brother from murder, he opted to confess to the court about all the mob affairs. Fact is, Terry Malloy was later seen as a hero to the union workers, while Joe Keller was seen as a murder. It seems as though the harder the decision, the more praise is received. Arthur Miller’s All My Sons is very similar to On the Waterfront when it comes to their ethical dilemmas.
~~~I would definitely recommend this film. This video is vivid, even through its black and white pixels, and relatable. The characters are very relatable with their down to earth and middle case personalities. This film also has a little bit of everything for everyone. It has mob bosses for the dads, the hot boy with a nice body for the girls, a love romance story for the moms, and guns for the boys! This setting is also very relatable for all Minnesotans with the chilly weather and cold scenery. This movie is a must see because it is overall extremely entertaining and fun to watch.
Enr.English 10
Mrs.Burgess
11/27/07
On the Waterfront
~~~On the Waterfront was an extremely enjoyable and influential movie. This film was incredibly entertaining because it gave its audience something to think about. Terry Malloy had to make the ultimate decision, whether to pursue justice and have his brother murdered or cover-up a murder and live with his decision. This film was also effective because it touched many different types of audiences and people. Despite its black and white colors, this film was vivid and colorful. It had moments that you wanted to laugh, cry, and dance at the same time. This movie was effective because it was relatable, vivid, and enjoyable.
~~~The literary aspects such as setting, symbols, and themes, from On the Waterfront played a large role in the movie. An example of the setting affected the film is in the outdoor scene where Terry is talking to Father Barry. The setting was harsh with dead trees and dirty snow. This unwelcoming scenery turned a normal argument into a cruel and relentless debate. Another literary aspect that affects this film is the symbols. One fairly important symbol is the music beat from the beginning to the end of the wedding dance. When the music first commenced it was simple and slow, showing Edie and Terry’s separation. As Terry and Edie spend more and more time dancing and getting to know each other, the beat gradually climbed. A third example of an influential aspect is the themes. A very important theme that arose throughout the film is do not judge a book by its cover. Edie learned this particular idea from when she first met Terry and thought of him as a worthless bum to finally beginning to fall in love with him. In conclusion, the literary features such as setting, symbols, and themes, played a bulky role in this motion picture.
~~~The dramatic aspects such as actors and costumes played an important role in On the Waterfront‘s mood and image. Important casting decisions arise when producing a movie, but when the directors chose Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint, and Karl Malden, they made the right choices. Marlon Brandon played the main lead of the character, Terry Malloy, very well not only because of his physical characteristics but also because of his acting style. Marlon was a perfect match when it came to his character. Terry had sad eyes that showed his caring nature, his bad boy image, and his boxer face, all added to Marlon’s acting success. But Marlon’s hot bod was not the only thing that aided his impersonation of Terry but also his acting style. Marlon would sometimes end his sentenced in a desperate or whining tone, which would Terry as being somewhat childish and uncomfortable with his actions. Another characteristic of Marlon’s acting that rubbed off on Terry’s character was his stance. Marlon would stand somewhat hunched over boxing position, which never let the audience to forget Terry’s past career. A second well selected actor was Eva Marie Saint. This actress not only portrayed her character, Edie Doyle physically but also with her acting style. Eva showed Edie to be innocent and untainted. This is shown by how Eva would talk like an innocent and untainted child with her high and questioning voice. Eva also showed Edie very well by her physique. Eva had bright blonde hair and a paler complexion; this gave the viewers a sense of holiness or purity. A third example of a well chosen actor was Karl Malden for the character of Father Barry. Karl Malden was tall; this height advantage gave the audience a sense of nobility for Father Barry compared to the workers. Karl also acted this part very well with his powerful, low voice and stance. Father Barry stood tall and straight, this showed his significance in the workers’ lives. The casting selections were not the only important dramatic aspect of On the Waterfront, the costume choosing also play a large role in the movie’s image. Some costume varieties that aided in their character’s representation was for Terry Malloy and Edie Doyle. Terry’s costume of a plaid, ragged coat was important because it showed how Terry was a low key, relatable guy. This strengthened the audience’s connection with Terry, and in turn increased their happiness at the happy ending. A second character that was influenced by her outfit was Edie Doyle. This actress wore a buttoned up covering coat. This selection showed her tightly strung personality and untrusting ways. The dramatic aspects in On the Waterfront played a huge role in the movie’s mood and image, by giving further insight.
~~~The cinematic aspects of On the Waterfront also played a huge role in the mood and image of this well known film. One cinematic aspect that greatly influenced this movie was the low shot. An example of this is when Terry Malloy is looking up at Edie Doyle on a higher ledge. This low angle gives the perception that in the eyes of Terry, Edie is an object of desire. It also gives the viewers the sense that Edie is above the “common” worker or mob, Terry, and that in turn she will have more influence. A second deeply important cinematic feature is the use of lighting. An example of this is in the pool table room scene where a spotlight shines on Johnny Friendly, the mob boss. This lighting effect shows how Johnny is more important and powerful then everyone else in the room (mob). This also shows how Johnny is in the spotlight and the public eye more often than the other mob participants. This also foreshadowed Johnny’s significantly more emotional fight scene towards Terry than the other mobsters. A third example of an influential cinematic aspect is when the bosses are looking down on the workers after they had thrown the time chips on the ground. This scene showed the evident separation between the bosses and the union workers. The fashion in which the bosses peered down upon the workers illustrates their perceptions of how they are of a higher grade and cannot be touched by the union worker’s and their issues. Theses cinematic features enhanced the film’s overall mood and image.
~~~Arthur Miller’s All My Sons is very similar to On the Waterfront when it comes to their ethical dilemmas. The protagonist, Joe Keller and Terry Malloy both had to make the ultimate decision between their families or the truth. But the way in which theses important characters reacted was anything but similar. Joe Keller chose his family, instead of saving the lives of twenty-one pilots. But Terry Malloy, he chose the truth. Instead of saving himself or his brother from murder, he opted to confess to the court about all the mob affairs. Fact is, Terry Malloy was later seen as a hero to the union workers, while Joe Keller was seen as a murder. It seems as though the harder the decision, the more praise is received. Arthur Miller’s All My Sons is very similar to On the Waterfront when it comes to their ethical dilemmas.
~~~I would definitely recommend this film. This video is vivid, even through its black and white pixels, and relatable. The characters are very relatable with their down to earth and middle case personalities. This film also has a little bit of everything for everyone. It has mob bosses for the dads, the hot boy with a nice body for the girls, a love romance story for the moms, and guns for the boys! This setting is also very relatable for all Minnesotans with the chilly weather and cold scenery. This movie is a must see because it is overall extremely entertaining and fun to watch.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Hero: Post A : #4
Vocab:
**Dais (156) =a raised platform (as in a hall or large room)
**Espionage (185) = the practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about the plans and activities especially of a foreign government or a competing company
Analysis:
---“bleeps” (184)This an instance of an onomatopoeia because when you pronounce this word, you produce the exact definition.
---“The cheers echoed in my ears, and it wasn’t like the goofy cheerleader squeals of a basketball game.”(190) This is an example of a metaphor, because it uses like. Thom compares the screams of the heroes during capture the flag, to the cheers of the silly cheerleaders during a basketball game.
---“I went to plunge the pole into the holder, Beowulf delivering the final blow to Grendel, and swung down with all my might.”(191) This is an example of a simile because Thom compares his actions to a famous fight without using like or as.
Quote:
“This was different, these were the heroes I’d grown up admiring my whole life, and they were cheering my name.”(190) This is an important quote because it shows Thom’s admiration of the League heroes and how successful Thom has become. This quote shows how accomplished Thom is because it shows how he is now working along side with his heroes. This also shows how much Thom looks up to the league, and praises them.
**Dais (156) =a raised platform (as in a hall or large room)
**Espionage (185) = the practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about the plans and activities especially of a foreign government or a competing company
Analysis:
---“bleeps” (184)This an instance of an onomatopoeia because when you pronounce this word, you produce the exact definition.
---“The cheers echoed in my ears, and it wasn’t like the goofy cheerleader squeals of a basketball game.”(190) This is an example of a metaphor, because it uses like. Thom compares the screams of the heroes during capture the flag, to the cheers of the silly cheerleaders during a basketball game.
---“I went to plunge the pole into the holder, Beowulf delivering the final blow to Grendel, and swung down with all my might.”(191) This is an example of a simile because Thom compares his actions to a famous fight without using like or as.
Quote:
“This was different, these were the heroes I’d grown up admiring my whole life, and they were cheering my name.”(190) This is an important quote because it shows Thom’s admiration of the League heroes and how successful Thom has become. This quote shows how accomplished Thom is because it shows how he is now working along side with his heroes. This also shows how much Thom looks up to the league, and praises them.
Hero: Post B : #3
Thom, the main character, is at the moment trying out for the League. Thom has an obsessive personality and at the moment is in awe of Uberman, one of his try-out evaluators. His obsession is muscle, well doing, and handsome superhero; what more could a gay teenage boy want! “I wanted to bump into Uberman in the hallway and have him whisk me away to the moon or Mars or somewhere far away, where he could point out different galaxies he’d been to. “(117)Thom at this section is not admitting his sex preference and is keeping a lot of secrets from his desperate father. Thom at first arriving at the league center had to fill out a bunch of paper and proceeded to a fitness test. After the fitness test, Thom was sent to the board room for an interview in front of half the league. During this interview, Thom was questioned intensely. For the last question, Warrior Woman asked, Why Thom was there? Thom then responded, “I don’t know exactly how I’m going make the world better yet, but I know I’m going to try.”(117)I thought it was interesting how Thom was this determined and sure of himself. Thom in all the other aspects of the storyline showed little to no confidence or willpower. It showed me for the first time that maybe when Thom sets his mind to something, he will pursue and strive for until there’s nothing more that can be done.
Hero: Post A : #3
Vocab:
Adversaries(101)- one that contends with, opposes, or resists
Pantheon(140)- one that contends with, opposes, or resists
Analysis:
***“One guy chatted away, a little too loudly if you ask me, to what sounded like a broker on his cell phone.”(102) This is an example of a metaphor, because Thom compares the way a hero try-out candidate talks on his phone like the loudness of a broker.
***“She sopped reading the magazine and looked straight ahead, like maybe a mosquito was buzzing in her ear.”(104) This is also an instance of a metaphor because Thom is again comparing another candidate. Thom compares Scarlette’s abrupt reading stop to as if a mosquito was bugging her.
***“Psst.”(105) This is obviously an example of onomatopoeia. This is true because when you pronounce this word, you produce the exact definition.
Quote:
“Why can’t I keep my locker upstairs with you guys?” "Look, Kevin, Justice was very clear. This way it needs to be for now.”(150) This quote is significant because it pushes into a new theme and it shows the tendencies of the League. This quote shows how the League takes every action of its heroes very seriously. So when Kevin, Golden Boy, made a mistake in Thom’s discovery mission, he was immediately demoted. This caption also shows a theme that even small mistakes can have enormous consequences.
Theme:
An emerging theme is that even small mistakes can have enormous consequences.
Adversaries(101)- one that contends with, opposes, or resists
Pantheon(140)- one that contends with, opposes, or resists
Analysis:
***“One guy chatted away, a little too loudly if you ask me, to what sounded like a broker on his cell phone.”(102) This is an example of a metaphor, because Thom compares the way a hero try-out candidate talks on his phone like the loudness of a broker.
***“She sopped reading the magazine and looked straight ahead, like maybe a mosquito was buzzing in her ear.”(104) This is also an instance of a metaphor because Thom is again comparing another candidate. Thom compares Scarlette’s abrupt reading stop to as if a mosquito was bugging her.
***“Psst.”(105) This is obviously an example of onomatopoeia. This is true because when you pronounce this word, you produce the exact definition.
Quote:
“Why can’t I keep my locker upstairs with you guys?” "Look, Kevin, Justice was very clear. This way it needs to be for now.”(150) This quote is significant because it pushes into a new theme and it shows the tendencies of the League. This quote shows how the League takes every action of its heroes very seriously. So when Kevin, Golden Boy, made a mistake in Thom’s discovery mission, he was immediately demoted. This caption also shows a theme that even small mistakes can have enormous consequences.
Theme:
An emerging theme is that even small mistakes can have enormous consequences.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Hero: Post B: #2 !
Dear Perry Moore,
First of all I have to say I LOVE your book! Hero is beyond addicting and increasing thought provoking. I thought it was interesting how you picked an “underdog” as your main character. Thom is shy, smart, and dependent; any unusual characteristics for a so called superhero. Right now I am at the point where Thom has just visited the funeral, and has just left for his nerve wreaking league tryouts! I thought it was interesting at the funeral with justice and dad, holding up three then two fingers. This was a very powerful section and showed their grief for their ancestor. I also loved Thom’s description of Golden Boy after the bus incident. “I wanted to knock that Golden shithead onto his golden ass.”(80) I thought this was interesting because Thom usually glorifies the league. But just this one member, Thom seems to already dislike. Another aspect of your book Hero that I liked was of Thom’s powers. You never just left your readers to think that his powers are limited. It seems as thought you are foreshadowing a new power change in the future. This story line seems so lifelike that I kind of have to wonder if this is just a futuristic look on your or a friend’s childhood. It seems as thought you always pity Thom and his situation. I look forward to finishing your novel, and hope to read of his developing powers! ! ! !
Sincerely,
C M : ] !
First of all I have to say I LOVE your book! Hero is beyond addicting and increasing thought provoking. I thought it was interesting how you picked an “underdog” as your main character. Thom is shy, smart, and dependent; any unusual characteristics for a so called superhero. Right now I am at the point where Thom has just visited the funeral, and has just left for his nerve wreaking league tryouts! I thought it was interesting at the funeral with justice and dad, holding up three then two fingers. This was a very powerful section and showed their grief for their ancestor. I also loved Thom’s description of Golden Boy after the bus incident. “I wanted to knock that Golden shithead onto his golden ass.”(80) I thought this was interesting because Thom usually glorifies the league. But just this one member, Thom seems to already dislike. Another aspect of your book Hero that I liked was of Thom’s powers. You never just left your readers to think that his powers are limited. It seems as thought you are foreshadowing a new power change in the future. This story line seems so lifelike that I kind of have to wonder if this is just a futuristic look on your or a friend’s childhood. It seems as thought you always pity Thom and his situation. I look forward to finishing your novel, and hope to read of his developing powers! ! ! !
Sincerely,
C M : ] !
Hero: Post A : #2!
Vocab:
***Lariat(57)= long light rope (as of hemp or leather) used with a running noose to catch livestock
***Elated(59)=marked by high spirits
Analysis:
---“Screeeech!”(62)-This is an example of onomatopoeia because when “screeeeching”, you make this noise while you are verbalizing from a text.
---“two villains flew up into the air, attached to the bus like a kid’s balloon that had been tied there after a carnival.”(69)This is an example of a metaphor in Hero. This is a metaphor because the author is comparing two villains attached to a bus like two balloons after a carnival, while using like.
---“plink”(73)- This is an example of onomatopoeia because while you read this word out loud you will be making the noise that it implies.
Quote:
“My mother had been a hero. All these years, and I had no idea…Is this where my powers came from?”(57) This quote is definitely important in Hero because of two reasons. One reason is that throughout his whole life, he had not know what his mom had done with her life before he was born. This also explains to Thom how his parents met and feel in love. A second importance to this quote is that up to that point Thom could not connect his current life to his estranged mother. But now with this new discovery, he has many things in common with her and is able to question his relationship with her.
Theme:
The emerging theme from Hero is that even though many may disapprove of your actions, you can better learn from your own mistakes.
***Lariat(57)= long light rope (as of hemp or leather) used with a running noose to catch livestock
***Elated(59)=marked by high spirits
Analysis:
---“Screeeech!”(62)-This is an example of onomatopoeia because when “screeeeching”, you make this noise while you are verbalizing from a text.
---“two villains flew up into the air, attached to the bus like a kid’s balloon that had been tied there after a carnival.”(69)This is an example of a metaphor in Hero. This is a metaphor because the author is comparing two villains attached to a bus like two balloons after a carnival, while using like.
---“plink”(73)- This is an example of onomatopoeia because while you read this word out loud you will be making the noise that it implies.
Quote:
“My mother had been a hero. All these years, and I had no idea…Is this where my powers came from?”(57) This quote is definitely important in Hero because of two reasons. One reason is that throughout his whole life, he had not know what his mom had done with her life before he was born. This also explains to Thom how his parents met and feel in love. A second importance to this quote is that up to that point Thom could not connect his current life to his estranged mother. But now with this new discovery, he has many things in common with her and is able to question his relationship with her.
Theme:
The emerging theme from Hero is that even though many may disapprove of your actions, you can better learn from your own mistakes.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Hero: Post A: #1
Vocab=
Bicuspid(2)-having or ending in two points
Unfurl(1)-to release from a furled state
Analysis=
**“dead bolt”(11) This is just one example of personification in Hero by Perry Moore, because a bolt obviously cannot be dead.
**“cheerful books”(14)This is anther example of personification in Hero by Perry Moore.
** “swish”(24)This is an example of an onomatopoeia in Hero, this is true because the word “swish” means exactly the noise you make when you say this particular word.
Quote=
“Even if Dad had ever possessed superpowers, invulnerability wouldn’t have protected him from the shame.”(2) This quote is significant not only because it shows the first glimpse at Thom’s dad’s past but also that all “superheroes” have weaknesses. At this point we only know that dad although is not part of the league anymore, his past has not escaped him. This also showed the readers that Thom’s father did not have superpowers unlike the rest of the “league”.
Theme=
The main theme that seems to be emerging is that not everyone, even superheroes, have flaws.
Bicuspid(2)-having or ending in two points
Unfurl(1)-to release from a furled state
Analysis=
**“dead bolt”(11) This is just one example of personification in Hero by Perry Moore, because a bolt obviously cannot be dead.
**“cheerful books”(14)This is anther example of personification in Hero by Perry Moore.
** “swish”(24)This is an example of an onomatopoeia in Hero, this is true because the word “swish” means exactly the noise you make when you say this particular word.
Quote=
“Even if Dad had ever possessed superpowers, invulnerability wouldn’t have protected him from the shame.”(2) This quote is significant not only because it shows the first glimpse at Thom’s dad’s past but also that all “superheroes” have weaknesses. At this point we only know that dad although is not part of the league anymore, his past has not escaped him. This also showed the readers that Thom’s father did not have superpowers unlike the rest of the “league”.
Theme=
The main theme that seems to be emerging is that not everyone, even superheroes, have flaws.
Hero: Post B: #1
Dear Thom,
First of all I think it is amazing that you can tutor, have a job, and play basketball. As I kept reading along I realized more vividly that you were special. Not only because you are possibly a superhero and your past, but also because of your emotions. Your past experiences seemed to have shaped your world today, for better and for worst. From when your mother left you, you became less trust and distant. From when your father made a so called big mistake, you began to pity and care for him and his situation, even though many isolated you for it. "I must have really been a hero that night, because it was the first time anyone at school had invited my dad anywhere."(25) During your opening basketball game I thought it was interesting how the whole time you were not fully just thinking about the game but also your father’s well being. Even though you were a superstar at your game after you did that mysterious thing to one opponents’ broken leg, your team kept their distance. Another fact that I thought to be odd, is when your father totally ignored you when the other team called you a faggot. Your feelings around this fact seem to be a bit touchy, and have a sense that you have not already come out as being gay. A final fact that was incredibly interesting is when you talked about your father’s hands. You described one as normal and strong, but the other to be demolished and hidden. But at the same time I got a sense that his ruined hand was somewhat of a key to his somewhat dreaded past.
Thanks Thom,
I hope to read a lot more about you!
CM
First of all I think it is amazing that you can tutor, have a job, and play basketball. As I kept reading along I realized more vividly that you were special. Not only because you are possibly a superhero and your past, but also because of your emotions. Your past experiences seemed to have shaped your world today, for better and for worst. From when your mother left you, you became less trust and distant. From when your father made a so called big mistake, you began to pity and care for him and his situation, even though many isolated you for it. "I must have really been a hero that night, because it was the first time anyone at school had invited my dad anywhere."(25) During your opening basketball game I thought it was interesting how the whole time you were not fully just thinking about the game but also your father’s well being. Even though you were a superstar at your game after you did that mysterious thing to one opponents’ broken leg, your team kept their distance. Another fact that I thought to be odd, is when your father totally ignored you when the other team called you a faggot. Your feelings around this fact seem to be a bit touchy, and have a sense that you have not already come out as being gay. A final fact that was incredibly interesting is when you talked about your father’s hands. You described one as normal and strong, but the other to be demolished and hidden. But at the same time I got a sense that his ruined hand was somewhat of a key to his somewhat dreaded past.
Thanks Thom,
I hope to read a lot more about you!
CM
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
week #5---B!
In this final section of Wasted; Marya shows that even at 55 pounds, she was never happy with her weigh. Although she still cannot pinpoint the exact reason that she decided to reclaim (somewhat) her health, after her admittance to her final hospital she was able to pull her self together and start her long journey ahead. Marya will never truly ever be able to recover from her eating disorders, to this day she still manages her food and sees a therapist regularly. She also manages to tell at the end of the novel that she does not have a fairytale or "all loose ends tied up" conclusion; but yet just a never dieing anorexia and bulimia struggle. I really learned a lot from Wasted, it taught me that no matter how hard we try to escape our past and struggles, they will only be healed by time.
POST A~#5
VOCABULARY~
talisman(218)-an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune
blitzkriegs(202)-war conducted with great speed and force
APPEALS~
“MARYA JUSTINE HORNBACHER.F.DOB 04-04-74
I. AXIS I:
A. Bulimia nervosa,307.51 (w/anorectic features)
B. Substance abuse, 305.00
C. Major Depression, 296.22” (142) This is obviously an logical appeal, it shows Marya’s medical records from her first stint at the Methodist Hospital’s eating disorder unit. Marya is showing the readers that although she may be thinking otherwise, it is medically proven that she definitely had some serious issues. It also connects all of her issues into one, and although they are separate they are very similar.
"I was throwing up every meal in suitcase, or out the window,"(182) This an emotional appeal because it shows Marya's desperation. Although she may be in an intense eating disorder hospital, she still, just by shear will, found was to still maintain her bulimia status. Marya eventually stopped this habit by turning anorexic later on.
"We find another turning point...by that time, my personality, and the very simple, inescapable eating disorder itself, It was habit by then."(230) This is an emotional appeal, it shows how Marya is now looking at her eating disorder. Although Marya may be able to go to a million rehab centers, she will always be thinking about her weigh. This is an important place in the book because it keys into Marya's future life with an eating disorder.
QUOTE~
"He leaned down and whispered to me: No matter how thin you get, no matter how short you cut your hair, it's still going to be you underneath."(205) This quote is very significant in this novel, it shows one of the basic ideas or themes of Wasted by Marya Hornbacher. Although Marya was not the person to say so, it helped show that throughout her teenage years she was constantly trying to be someone else instead of thriving in her own skin. It seems that although her times out of hospitals were scarce, she understood that if only she would just enjoy her life and body now she will be happier.
talisman(218)-an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune
blitzkriegs(202)-war conducted with great speed and force
APPEALS~
“MARYA JUSTINE HORNBACHER.F.DOB 04-04-74
I. AXIS I:
A. Bulimia nervosa,307.51 (w/anorectic features)
B. Substance abuse, 305.00
C. Major Depression, 296.22” (142) This is obviously an logical appeal, it shows Marya’s medical records from her first stint at the Methodist Hospital’s eating disorder unit. Marya is showing the readers that although she may be thinking otherwise, it is medically proven that she definitely had some serious issues. It also connects all of her issues into one, and although they are separate they are very similar.
"I was throwing up every meal in suitcase, or out the window,"(182) This an emotional appeal because it shows Marya's desperation. Although she may be in an intense eating disorder hospital, she still, just by shear will, found was to still maintain her bulimia status. Marya eventually stopped this habit by turning anorexic later on.
"We find another turning point...by that time, my personality, and the very simple, inescapable eating disorder itself, It was habit by then."(230) This is an emotional appeal, it shows how Marya is now looking at her eating disorder. Although Marya may be able to go to a million rehab centers, she will always be thinking about her weigh. This is an important place in the book because it keys into Marya's future life with an eating disorder.
QUOTE~
"He leaned down and whispered to me: No matter how thin you get, no matter how short you cut your hair, it's still going to be you underneath."(205) This quote is very significant in this novel, it shows one of the basic ideas or themes of Wasted by Marya Hornbacher. Although Marya was not the person to say so, it helped show that throughout her teenage years she was constantly trying to be someone else instead of thriving in her own skin. It seems that although her times out of hospitals were scarce, she understood that if only she would just enjoy her life and body now she will be happier.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
POST B ! #4
This section of Wasted by Marya Hornbacher made me realize that an eating disorder can happen to any type of person. If I had to say the first that came to my mind when I thought of an anorexic or bulimic person, I would say an artistic, pale, model want to be. As a tri-sport athlete I always thought that no matter what, there is absolutely no possible earthly way that a person with my lifestyle would EVER have an eating disorder; wow was I wrong! "Eating disordered athletes in particular seem to have this idea -but they speak in a bizarre almost proactive tone, as if they have always intended to stop.”[135] Marya also in this chapter went through a rough patch with her health. She not only fainted and was checked into the school infirmary, but she also at the school MORP (kind of prom) threw-up blood. At that point all of the dormitory supervisors had been fed up with Marya’s excuses for not being well. “one of the chaperons…Marya, you’re full of shit.”(132) After this throwing up blood incident, Marya was sent to the nurse. Her parents were called and told that she had been probably taken diet pills that had not agreed with her stomach. This was also the end of the line for many of Marya’s friends, as they would plea with the administrators to stop Marya; they did nothing. But the main thing I learned from this section of Wasted is that an eating disorder can happen to anyone, anywhere.
POST a -#4
Vocabulary
Masochism[124]~pleasure in being abused or dominated : a taste for suffering
Psychedelic[124]~of, relating to, or being drugs (as LSD) capable of producing abnormal psychic effects (as hallucinations) and sometimes psychotic states b: produced by or associated with the use of psychedelic drugs
Appeals:
***"My god! people say. You have so much self-control! And later: My god. You are so,so sick. When people say this, when they turn their heads, you've won your little game. " [124] This is obviously an emotional appeal because it gives the reader an idea of what Marya was striving for, not just self-control but to really hurt herself. This shows the audience that the author is truly not just slightly controlled by this disease but fully.
***"They periodically took my blood pressure and...congratulated me on my (dangerously low, I will soon find out) blood pressure..."[130] This is a logical appeal because it tells the reader how sick Marya really was and how most of her medically advice back then was truly hurtful and wrong. This also added to the "I was really truly sick" idea that Marya tends to bash her readers with.
***" There are people reading this who may think to themselves: What if i just tried it? What if i just lost a few more pounds? After all, she's still alive... Not quite."[129] This appeal is emotional because it shows Marya's significant effort to stop this disease, anorexia. It definitely bashes all ideas of any future anorexics to jump into this vicious cycle.
Quote:
"Eating disordered athletes in particular seem to have this idea -but they speak in a bizarre almost proactive tone, as if they have always intended to stop. "[135] This quote is significant because it really shows that an eating disorder can happened to even athletes. Not just people that are not in arts, or modeling. This quote really hit me hard because throughout this whole novel i have been somewhat laughing at the idea of a girl like me, a committed athlete, ever getting an eating disorder. I am forever changed.
Masochism[124]~pleasure in being abused or dominated : a taste for suffering
Psychedelic[124]~of, relating to, or being drugs (as LSD) capable of producing abnormal psychic effects (as hallucinations) and sometimes psychotic states b: produced by or associated with the use of psychedelic drugs
Appeals:
***"My god! people say. You have so much self-control! And later: My god. You are so,so sick. When people say this, when they turn their heads, you've won your little game. " [124] This is obviously an emotional appeal because it gives the reader an idea of what Marya was striving for, not just self-control but to really hurt herself. This shows the audience that the author is truly not just slightly controlled by this disease but fully.
***"They periodically took my blood pressure and...congratulated me on my (dangerously low, I will soon find out) blood pressure..."[130] This is a logical appeal because it tells the reader how sick Marya really was and how most of her medically advice back then was truly hurtful and wrong. This also added to the "I was really truly sick" idea that Marya tends to bash her readers with.
***" There are people reading this who may think to themselves: What if i just tried it? What if i just lost a few more pounds? After all, she's still alive... Not quite."[129] This appeal is emotional because it shows Marya's significant effort to stop this disease, anorexia. It definitely bashes all ideas of any future anorexics to jump into this vicious cycle.
Quote:
"Eating disordered athletes in particular seem to have this idea -but they speak in a bizarre almost proactive tone, as if they have always intended to stop. "[135] This quote is significant because it really shows that an eating disorder can happened to even athletes. Not just people that are not in arts, or modeling. This quote really hit me hard because throughout this whole novel i have been somewhat laughing at the idea of a girl like me, a committed athlete, ever getting an eating disorder. I am forever changed.
Monday, October 15, 2007
400 Blows
The 400 Blows by Francois Truffaut was a very effective and well made film. Today, many pictures are either, “chick-flicks” or “man movies”. But this 1959 feature related to both sexes with a dramatic and climatic story-line. 400 Blows was effective because it taped into emotions and helped you relate to the main character, Antoine. It really captured the audience from the real world into nineteenth century France, letting their imaginations run wild.
The choices of the author/director for the literacy aspects were mostly excellent; some of theses aspects include, plot, characters, setting, themes, and symbols. Some endearing qualities of the 400 Blows’ plot were that it was a steady slope up throughout the movie, which lead the audience to be teetering on the edge of their seats. Another well organized characteristic of 400 Blows is the characters. Antoine, Gilberte, Julian, Mr. Bigey, and Rene; provided a nice variety of acting styles, personalities, and looks. This aspect really provided the audience with a sense of diversity. The setting was also very appropriate for this film because it took place in the very romantic and joyful city of Paris. This aspect really helped show where Antoine was most happy, while once he was moved to the harsher environment of the Mediterranean; he was not nearly as content. The themes and symbols were mostly connected; as one symbol/theme was the lighting. While in a happy moment or place, the lighting would be bright and the music would be upbeat. But there could also been a couple more themes; it would have made this film yet more interesting! The choices of the director in the literacy aspect were mostly well planned and moved in seamlessly with the other aspects of 400 Blows.
The dramatic aspects of 400 Blows include the selection of actors, costume and make-up, set design, and lighting. The casting of actors in 400 Blows included many good and bad choices. One excellent actor decision was from the character of Antoine Doinel. The character was meant to be portrayed as rebellious, emotional; which Jean-Pierre Leaud very much achieved with his half bad boy, half teddy bear acting styles. Another good character pick was for the casting of the French teacher, Guy Decomble. This was a good decision because his way of showing the teacher as a strict and very bias man, really fit in well and helped the story evolve. But the casting staff was not all right; one character that could have been chosen better is Gilbrette Doinel. The mother character was supposed to be played as a mean, self absorbed character; but at times Gilbrette Doinel “flipped flopped” her image from sketchy woman, to a normal fun-loving mom.
In 400 blows the cinematic aspects were for the most part very appropriate. Some of theses selections were for photography, camera movement, duration of shots, and sound. The photography of 400 Blows was interesting in that its perspective changed throughout the film. The director had two main distance and angle characteristics; one where the camera is looking down on Antoine, then another that the audience is looking at eye level with him. The first selection with the looking down view is mainly used when Antoine is being rebellious and acting childish. The other photography choice was used when the main character is acting mature and independent. This last view point gave the audience a sense of connection with the young boy. Another cinematic aspect that was important in 400 Blows was the camera movement. Through most of the movie, the camera moves along with Antoine fluidly and smoothly. But the camera at times, moved choppily when Antoine was in an “unhappy” situation. One aspect of this film that could have been helped is in the duration of shots selection. The timing was extremely off sometimes; this error left the audience bored and praying for a cut. An example of this is when Antoine is running away from boot camp; this shot went on for about forever! If only they had cut it off after they’re point got across it would have been more interesting. But a final really helpfully aspect of 400 Blows was the music. The way that they had the beat rise when Antoine was being rebellious, and slowing it down when he was behaving; heightened the audience’s emotions. Overall the choices of the director in the cinematic aspects were excellent; but at times they also could have perfected.
The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy are very much similar in their main conflicts, characters, and point-of-view. Theses two stories’ conflicts are similar in that they are in a constant struggle with some force; weather it may be a harsh family life or a racially discriminating time period, theses boys are always up against something. The main characters both also had very awkward family situations and a harsh home. They were also very alike in that they were both young at some point and rebellious. Both of theses memoir also had similar point-of-views in that the main character never showed the other view of the outside world but yet only their own. The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy were also very alike in other ways but the main similarities were in the conflict, characters, and point-of-view.
A recommendation to” go see this now!”is definitely in order for this film, 400 Blows. As long as you can speak fluent French and are a true black and white movie fan, then you will beyond doubt appreciate this movie. The plot, characters, setting, and themes selection was amazing and helped this motion picture suck the audience in. But although many may adore this movie, some may absolutely dread it! Basically if you cannot speak French or can not read subtitles, hate black and white movies, or can not appreciate sad films then I recommend not going to 400 Blows. But for the most part audience should like and care for this famous film.
Work Cited:
Truffaut, François. “400 Blows.” Dir. François Truffaut.
Wright, Richard. « Black Boy »
The choices of the author/director for the literacy aspects were mostly excellent; some of theses aspects include, plot, characters, setting, themes, and symbols. Some endearing qualities of the 400 Blows’ plot were that it was a steady slope up throughout the movie, which lead the audience to be teetering on the edge of their seats. Another well organized characteristic of 400 Blows is the characters. Antoine, Gilberte, Julian, Mr. Bigey, and Rene; provided a nice variety of acting styles, personalities, and looks. This aspect really provided the audience with a sense of diversity. The setting was also very appropriate for this film because it took place in the very romantic and joyful city of Paris. This aspect really helped show where Antoine was most happy, while once he was moved to the harsher environment of the Mediterranean; he was not nearly as content. The themes and symbols were mostly connected; as one symbol/theme was the lighting. While in a happy moment or place, the lighting would be bright and the music would be upbeat. But there could also been a couple more themes; it would have made this film yet more interesting! The choices of the director in the literacy aspect were mostly well planned and moved in seamlessly with the other aspects of 400 Blows.
The dramatic aspects of 400 Blows include the selection of actors, costume and make-up, set design, and lighting. The casting of actors in 400 Blows included many good and bad choices. One excellent actor decision was from the character of Antoine Doinel. The character was meant to be portrayed as rebellious, emotional; which Jean-Pierre Leaud very much achieved with his half bad boy, half teddy bear acting styles. Another good character pick was for the casting of the French teacher, Guy Decomble. This was a good decision because his way of showing the teacher as a strict and very bias man, really fit in well and helped the story evolve. But the casting staff was not all right; one character that could have been chosen better is Gilbrette Doinel. The mother character was supposed to be played as a mean, self absorbed character; but at times Gilbrette Doinel “flipped flopped” her image from sketchy woman, to a normal fun-loving mom.
In 400 blows the cinematic aspects were for the most part very appropriate. Some of theses selections were for photography, camera movement, duration of shots, and sound. The photography of 400 Blows was interesting in that its perspective changed throughout the film. The director had two main distance and angle characteristics; one where the camera is looking down on Antoine, then another that the audience is looking at eye level with him. The first selection with the looking down view is mainly used when Antoine is being rebellious and acting childish. The other photography choice was used when the main character is acting mature and independent. This last view point gave the audience a sense of connection with the young boy. Another cinematic aspect that was important in 400 Blows was the camera movement. Through most of the movie, the camera moves along with Antoine fluidly and smoothly. But the camera at times, moved choppily when Antoine was in an “unhappy” situation. One aspect of this film that could have been helped is in the duration of shots selection. The timing was extremely off sometimes; this error left the audience bored and praying for a cut. An example of this is when Antoine is running away from boot camp; this shot went on for about forever! If only they had cut it off after they’re point got across it would have been more interesting. But a final really helpfully aspect of 400 Blows was the music. The way that they had the beat rise when Antoine was being rebellious, and slowing it down when he was behaving; heightened the audience’s emotions. Overall the choices of the director in the cinematic aspects were excellent; but at times they also could have perfected.
The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy are very much similar in their main conflicts, characters, and point-of-view. Theses two stories’ conflicts are similar in that they are in a constant struggle with some force; weather it may be a harsh family life or a racially discriminating time period, theses boys are always up against something. The main characters both also had very awkward family situations and a harsh home. They were also very alike in that they were both young at some point and rebellious. Both of theses memoir also had similar point-of-views in that the main character never showed the other view of the outside world but yet only their own. The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy were also very alike in other ways but the main similarities were in the conflict, characters, and point-of-view.
A recommendation to” go see this now!”is definitely in order for this film, 400 Blows. As long as you can speak fluent French and are a true black and white movie fan, then you will beyond doubt appreciate this movie. The plot, characters, setting, and themes selection was amazing and helped this motion picture suck the audience in. But although many may adore this movie, some may absolutely dread it! Basically if you cannot speak French or can not read subtitles, hate black and white movies, or can not appreciate sad films then I recommend not going to 400 Blows. But for the most part audience should like and care for this famous film.
Work Cited:
Truffaut, François. “400 Blows.” Dir. François Truffaut.
Wright, Richard. « Black Boy »
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Dear Marya,
I am really enjoying your novel Wasted. At points your “beating over the head” of the idea that an eating disorder is tough and deadly, can be a bit much but overall it is an interesting read. I would like to hear more about your life at boarding school too.
But as I read on in this section I realized more and more that boarding school for you was a very hazardous place, more so than Southview Middle School. It seemed as though your disorder took a dramatic turn for the worst and was affecting and turning your life upside down. Even your strange semi issued roommate and friends noticed your ridicule eating habits. “STOP THAT RIGHT NOW!”(117) they would say to a self-destructive soul as yourself. And although you knew that you had a major problem, you were never able to fully grasp the altitude of the disorder. I thought it was interesting how your eating disorder turned you to chain smoking, drugs, and sex. In this section you told us a little bit more about your love life and your selection of younger boys. You also mentioned briefly, your drug problems with speed and alcohol. It is really sad how your life got even more screwed up with boarding school, even though your intention was to get away and get grounded. I enjoyed the part in this section that mentioned your trips to town. I hope to hear more about your life outside of anorexia and bulimia!
Sincerely,
CM:]
I am really enjoying your novel Wasted. At points your “beating over the head” of the idea that an eating disorder is tough and deadly, can be a bit much but overall it is an interesting read. I would like to hear more about your life at boarding school too.
But as I read on in this section I realized more and more that boarding school for you was a very hazardous place, more so than Southview Middle School. It seemed as though your disorder took a dramatic turn for the worst and was affecting and turning your life upside down. Even your strange semi issued roommate and friends noticed your ridicule eating habits. “STOP THAT RIGHT NOW!”(117) they would say to a self-destructive soul as yourself. And although you knew that you had a major problem, you were never able to fully grasp the altitude of the disorder. I thought it was interesting how your eating disorder turned you to chain smoking, drugs, and sex. In this section you told us a little bit more about your love life and your selection of younger boys. You also mentioned briefly, your drug problems with speed and alcohol. It is really sad how your life got even more screwed up with boarding school, even though your intention was to get away and get grounded. I enjoyed the part in this section that mentioned your trips to town. I hope to hear more about your life outside of anorexia and bulimia!
Sincerely,
CM:]
POST B; week #3!
VOCAB!:
Appendage(108)-n. an adjunct to something larger or more important
Entity(109)-n. something that has separate and distinct existence and objective or conceptual reality
APPEALS:
~~“Of course I didn’t know then that I had all the obvious signs of having an eating disorder: strange combinations of food, eating other people’s leftovers, skipping meals.”(107) Although this quote may not be relevant to everyone, it is definitely to me. As I know someone that has many of theses habits, it was easy to finally understand what she is going through. This quote is an emotional appeal because it shows how Marya now understands her signs of bulimia. Although once she realizes her disorder, she becomes more aggravated in that she doesn’t want to be bulimic, but anorexic and hence doesn’t want to stop her dangerous habits.
~~“Later in the year, there will be a few girls who defect: We’re all just getting way too obsessed, she’ll, nibbling her apple,”(106) Being a teenager I know how it feels to know and understand that everything is terribly wrong, but yet somehow you are never able to change it. This is definitely an emotional appeal because it helps to show how Marya along with her other dieting friends realize how bad their dieting is, but yet aren’t strong enough to stop it.
~~“Up to that point, the bulimia had had a life of its own. It was purely an emotional response to the world –under pressere, binge and purge; sad and lonely, binge and purge; feeling hungry, binge and purge- and actually had little to do, believe it or not, with a desire to lose weight.”(108) Marya had no control over her bulimia or eating disorder at all before this point in the novel where she started to take a terrible turn to anorexia. This is an emotional appeal because it shows how Marya was feeling and how she started to lose totally control of her addiction.
Quote:
“When a study was done on a group of young, healthy men whose caloric intake was cut to just under a thousand calories, they began … to purge, and –interestingly enough-they became incredibly worried about their weight, the shape of their bodies, and began to diet.”(122) This is a fairly important quote because it demonstrates the fact that an eating disorder can happen to anyone! It is not something that can be classified into a gender, race, or age group, but yet a universal addiction.
Appendage(108)-n. an adjunct to something larger or more important
Entity(109)-n. something that has separate and distinct existence and objective or conceptual reality
APPEALS:
~~“Of course I didn’t know then that I had all the obvious signs of having an eating disorder: strange combinations of food, eating other people’s leftovers, skipping meals.”(107) Although this quote may not be relevant to everyone, it is definitely to me. As I know someone that has many of theses habits, it was easy to finally understand what she is going through. This quote is an emotional appeal because it shows how Marya now understands her signs of bulimia. Although once she realizes her disorder, she becomes more aggravated in that she doesn’t want to be bulimic, but anorexic and hence doesn’t want to stop her dangerous habits.
~~“Later in the year, there will be a few girls who defect: We’re all just getting way too obsessed, she’ll, nibbling her apple,”(106) Being a teenager I know how it feels to know and understand that everything is terribly wrong, but yet somehow you are never able to change it. This is definitely an emotional appeal because it helps to show how Marya along with her other dieting friends realize how bad their dieting is, but yet aren’t strong enough to stop it.
~~“Up to that point, the bulimia had had a life of its own. It was purely an emotional response to the world –under pressere, binge and purge; sad and lonely, binge and purge; feeling hungry, binge and purge- and actually had little to do, believe it or not, with a desire to lose weight.”(108) Marya had no control over her bulimia or eating disorder at all before this point in the novel where she started to take a terrible turn to anorexia. This is an emotional appeal because it shows how Marya was feeling and how she started to lose totally control of her addiction.
Quote:
“When a study was done on a group of young, healthy men whose caloric intake was cut to just under a thousand calories, they began … to purge, and –interestingly enough-they became incredibly worried about their weight, the shape of their bodies, and began to diet.”(122) This is a fairly important quote because it demonstrates the fact that an eating disorder can happen to anyone! It is not something that can be classified into a gender, race, or age group, but yet a universal addiction.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Dear Marya Hornbacher,
It's me again, you most think I am a totally creeper. Well anyways, I was just reading your novel again and found it incredibly interesting your view on your life with boys. In middle school many girls, if any at all, barely ever have boyfriends. But we you it was obviously different! When you told your readers about how much of a slut you were, it really showed me how honest you were.
I also loved your story about how your parents were totally clueless when it came to being parents. “at dinner, I said MomandDadIhavesomethingtotellyou…I’ve been making myself throw up” … my mother said, “I used to do that.”(82)I could relate to your quote because many students at Edina have very much, clueless parents. So showed me how much your mom really had no perception of the toll that an eating disorder takes on a body. Its actually really sad that your parents still never took you seriously.
Your book so far has really helps me understand the nature of an eating disorder. You do not just give the hard core facts that you can find in any health book, but also the extreme emotional toll that anorexia and bulimia take on a person.
Sincerely,
CM
It's me again, you most think I am a totally creeper. Well anyways, I was just reading your novel again and found it incredibly interesting your view on your life with boys. In middle school many girls, if any at all, barely ever have boyfriends. But we you it was obviously different! When you told your readers about how much of a slut you were, it really showed me how honest you were.
I also loved your story about how your parents were totally clueless when it came to being parents. “at dinner, I said MomandDadIhavesomethingtotellyou…I’ve been making myself throw up” … my mother said, “I used to do that.”(82)I could relate to your quote because many students at Edina have very much, clueless parents. So showed me how much your mom really had no perception of the toll that an eating disorder takes on a body. Its actually really sad that your parents still never took you seriously.
Your book so far has really helps me understand the nature of an eating disorder. You do not just give the hard core facts that you can find in any health book, but also the extreme emotional toll that anorexia and bulimia take on a person.
Sincerely,
CM
POST A..week #2
VOCAB:
Caustic(66)- capable of destroying or eating away by chemical action
Paradox(64)- a tenet contrary to received opinion
APPEALS:
1.“She snorts cocaine in her flowered room to keep from giving in to sleep, a weakness, and she, already too weak, refuses to give in.”(86). This appeal clearly shows emotional appeal because it shows the struggle that Marya had with drugs, its connection to bulimia and self control. The readers then want to know how the heck the author got to this disaster of a place in her life.
2.”I was the problem. But we never wondered why I was the problem”(66) This appeal shows emotional appeal again because Marya is telling the readers how her parents know she has a problem, but cant help her fix it.
3.”I was bingeing, alone, whenever I could, with whatever money I had”(82) This appeal is obviously emotional again because Marya is telling the readers how desperate she was and to how much of an extreme she had reached.
QUOTE:
“My life split in half, finally and definitively, right here, seventh grade…I began to run toward the vanishing point”(64) This an extremely important quote because Marya is pin-pointing the exact point in her life of permanent anorexia, that she jumped over to somewhat controlled to uncontrollable. After this point Marya gave up on bulimia and commenced her journey with anorexia. It is amazing how young she was when she started to run toward her death.
THEME:
So far the theme has remained the same; Marya’s struggle and failure to de-attach her life from anorexia.
Caustic(66)- capable of destroying or eating away by chemical action
Paradox(64)- a tenet contrary to received opinion
APPEALS:
1.“She snorts cocaine in her flowered room to keep from giving in to sleep, a weakness, and she, already too weak, refuses to give in.”(86). This appeal clearly shows emotional appeal because it shows the struggle that Marya had with drugs, its connection to bulimia and self control. The readers then want to know how the heck the author got to this disaster of a place in her life.
2.”I was the problem. But we never wondered why I was the problem”(66) This appeal shows emotional appeal again because Marya is telling the readers how her parents know she has a problem, but cant help her fix it.
3.”I was bingeing, alone, whenever I could, with whatever money I had”(82) This appeal is obviously emotional again because Marya is telling the readers how desperate she was and to how much of an extreme she had reached.
QUOTE:
“My life split in half, finally and definitively, right here, seventh grade…I began to run toward the vanishing point”(64) This an extremely important quote because Marya is pin-pointing the exact point in her life of permanent anorexia, that she jumped over to somewhat controlled to uncontrollable. After this point Marya gave up on bulimia and commenced her journey with anorexia. It is amazing how young she was when she started to run toward her death.
THEME:
So far the theme has remained the same; Marya’s struggle and failure to de-attach her life from anorexia.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Post A !!! #1
Wasted by Marya Hornbacker
Vocab=
Kaleidoscope (25)- : an instrument containing loose bits of colored material (as glass or plastic) between two flat plates and two plane mirrors so placed that changes of position of the bits of material are reflected in an endless variety of patterns
Tome (28) - : a volume forming part of a larger work
Theme=
I thought the main theme so far in Wasted, is how easily it is to become an eating disorder victim.
Appeals=
1. We grew up with the impression that underneath all this normal flesh, buried deep in the excessive recesses of our healthy bodies, there was a Perfect Body just waiting to break out. (47) Marya shows how everybody desires another body, a fitter, more attractive body. But instead of trying to starve ourselves to get that Perfect Body we should love the skin we in!
2. I am living in the land of the Pretty Blond Girl in White. I am not a pretty blonde girl. (48) Hornbacher tries to show how in Edina, the most desirable body has to be a pretty blonde haired girl. Many girls, just like Marya, was not born that way, and feel the need to starve themselves to be the skinny Pretty Blonde Girl that they dreamed of.
3. The town I lived in operates on money. Money-class, really-and eating disorders share a direct relationship with each other. (46) Hornbacher shows again how eating disorders are somewhat very “popular” in our hometown and how Edina is a very dangerous place for a teenager who is self-conscious.
Quote=
I don’t think that people realize when they’re just getting started on an eating disorder or even when they’re in the grip of one, that it is not something that you just “get over”. (7) This quote is important because it shows that an eating disorder can happen to anyone, even at times that they least expect it. She also showed me that once your in the grips of an eating disorder that they is no way of fully escaping.
Vocab=
Kaleidoscope (25)- : an instrument containing loose bits of colored material (as glass or plastic) between two flat plates and two plane mirrors so placed that changes of position of the bits of material are reflected in an endless variety of patterns
Tome (28) - : a volume forming part of a larger work
Theme=
I thought the main theme so far in Wasted, is how easily it is to become an eating disorder victim.
Appeals=
1. We grew up with the impression that underneath all this normal flesh, buried deep in the excessive recesses of our healthy bodies, there was a Perfect Body just waiting to break out. (47) Marya shows how everybody desires another body, a fitter, more attractive body. But instead of trying to starve ourselves to get that Perfect Body we should love the skin we in!
2. I am living in the land of the Pretty Blond Girl in White. I am not a pretty blonde girl. (48) Hornbacher tries to show how in Edina, the most desirable body has to be a pretty blonde haired girl. Many girls, just like Marya, was not born that way, and feel the need to starve themselves to be the skinny Pretty Blonde Girl that they dreamed of.
3. The town I lived in operates on money. Money-class, really-and eating disorders share a direct relationship with each other. (46) Hornbacher shows again how eating disorders are somewhat very “popular” in our hometown and how Edina is a very dangerous place for a teenager who is self-conscious.
Quote=
I don’t think that people realize when they’re just getting started on an eating disorder or even when they’re in the grip of one, that it is not something that you just “get over”. (7) This quote is important because it shows that an eating disorder can happen to anyone, even at times that they least expect it. She also showed me that once your in the grips of an eating disorder that they is no way of fully escaping.
Monday, September 24, 2007
POST B !!!!
Dear Marya Hornbacher,
The minute I opened your book I knew I would fall in love with it! The way that your book clings to the reader and instantly connects with them is amazing. As I kept on reading Wasted, I was able to relate it more and more to my life and what I think about daily.
Throughout the first part of the book I learned that we are very much similar. One similarity than related me to the book was the town that we in which we both grew-up, lovely Edina, MN. Just like you mentioned, it can be a very hazardous place for a self-conscious teenage girl and trust me our city hasn’t changed one bit. The town I lived in operated on money. Money-class, really- ad eating disorders share a direct relationship with each other.(Hornbacher 46)
Mostly every teenage girl thinks constantly about her image, her make-up, hair, height, but most importantly her weigh. Our culture portrays the “perfect girl” image as a size zero, perfectly tan teenager. But fact is many girls, just like myself, are anything but; they feel the pressure every day to change, to shrink. You showed me that anorexia can jump on anyone, even at times when they least expect it. “I don’t think people realize, when they’re getting started on an eating disorder or even when they’re in the grip of one”(Hornbacher 7) Every time I think about what I eat and how fat I am, I now remember that quote and realize that I need to forget about what other people think of me. I look forward to reading more about your ideas surrounding anorexia and bulimia,
cm :]
The minute I opened your book I knew I would fall in love with it! The way that your book clings to the reader and instantly connects with them is amazing. As I kept on reading Wasted, I was able to relate it more and more to my life and what I think about daily.
Throughout the first part of the book I learned that we are very much similar. One similarity than related me to the book was the town that we in which we both grew-up, lovely Edina, MN. Just like you mentioned, it can be a very hazardous place for a self-conscious teenage girl and trust me our city hasn’t changed one bit. The town I lived in operated on money. Money-class, really- ad eating disorders share a direct relationship with each other.(Hornbacher 46)
Mostly every teenage girl thinks constantly about her image, her make-up, hair, height, but most importantly her weigh. Our culture portrays the “perfect girl” image as a size zero, perfectly tan teenager. But fact is many girls, just like myself, are anything but; they feel the pressure every day to change, to shrink. You showed me that anorexia can jump on anyone, even at times when they least expect it. “I don’t think people realize, when they’re getting started on an eating disorder or even when they’re in the grip of one”(Hornbacher 7) Every time I think about what I eat and how fat I am, I now remember that quote and realize that I need to forget about what other people think of me. I look forward to reading more about your ideas surrounding anorexia and bulimia,
cm :]
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