Sound and Fury

While watching the documentary Sound and Fury, I was often times left feeling frustrated and angered by some of the situations and arguments that took place.  With the filmmaker’s stylistic choices for this documentary, it made it much easier to comprehend and follow.  The viewer is able to hear each argument and opinion of the individuals more clearly, because he or she is interviewed separately.  This cleared up any confusion and gave each character a say in the matter.  I also enjoyed the voiceover.  The filmmaker could have easily used subtitles, but it flows much more smoothly with verbal communication.  The voiceovers were very enthusiastic and personalized to each character. 

I find it interesting that at the beginning of the film, Peter and Nita were leaning towards the implant, but as time progressed, their opinion took a complete 180.  Nita starts out saying, “I want Heather to have the best of both worlds: to speak and to sign,” and “More options would be available to her if she were able to hear.  Life would be easier.”  However, after she finds out that it wouldn’t be in her own best interest to get a cochlear implant, her opinion, along with her husband’s, begins to change.  At the family gathering, Peter and his mother go at it.  I was left feeling a bit overwhelmed.  She argues the exact opposite.  “She will suffer more.”  “The deaf world is changing.”  “It’s not just a gamble.”  All of these statements provided by the grandmother cause conflict among the different Discourses.

The main Discourses are the connections among hearing people opposed to the connections among deaf people.  It is Deaf Culture that seems to be the most prevalent.  I always viewed deafness as a disability, but after watching this film, I realized that those who are deaf do not see it that way.  It is not a handicap, and they are proud to be who they were meant to be.  However, Mary, Peter’s sister-in-law, is very frustrated by this Discourse.  She was the only hearing person of her family and simply couldn’t stand it.  As a child she rebelled and refused to sign.  I found this Discourse among her family members to be very intriguing. 

Personally, I was extremely frustrated with the way Heather’s parents threw out and neglected the implantation of the cochlear.  Maybe it’s hard for me to understand because I am a hearing person, but I think that children like Heather would be provided with greater opportunities and could encompass even greater potential if they could hear.  Because I am a twin, I agree strongly with the choice made by Chris and Mari for their son.  I can’t even fathom how hard it would be if Lydia were hearing and I were deaf.  Being at home, being out with friends, going to school, going to work, and etc. would be extremely trying and difficult.  I would constantly feel one step behind and not as good as Lydia.  Just because one can be implanted with a cochlear, doesn’t mean that they have to neglect his or her Deaf Culture. 

It would be interesting to see how the cochlear in baby Peter has affected the family dynamic.  Are there any regrets among Mary and Chris or Peter and Nita in regards the decisions they made?   

Phone Books

Phone books

The response to the flu accompanied by elevated pyrexia will forever bring along a strong motion of anxiety.  It is when I begin to feel that I am on the verge of the flu that my worry spikes.  Irrational or not, the trembling from my fever only increase with my fear.  The wave of illness crashes upon my body, messing with my motor functions and altering my imagination.  My body tells me to thrash and writhe with each thought and image during my restless slumber.  Then it appears – the dreaded phone book.

Simply minding my own business, my mother arrives, lashing out with distinct hand motions.  She is shaking her finger at me, and her mouth is moving 100 miles an hour.  I can’t seem to make out the words, though.  It is evident that she is yelling, but it only comes out in a whisper.  I tremble even more, fearful of what is to come.  I look to my right.  Phone books.  Everywhere.  I am then forced to eat it, bite after bite, without slowing down.  As I open my mouth to engulf each and every bit of it, tears trickle down my face, and I am unable to find any mean of escape.  Trapped in this irrational dream with this irrational fear, I snap awake.  Sweat beads drip down my face, and the rest of my body is drenched with it. 

Thankful that it was just my imagination, I take in a slight sigh of relief.  However, I know that this won’t be the last time.  Each time that I am greeted with the flu, I become submerged in this retched dream cycle.  I will never be able to look at a phone book in the same way again.          

Hey Hey Hey. This is what I've got to Say...

Robin Thicke's music video that correlates to his song "Blurred Lines" is without a doubt pretentious.  As stated by Amy Davison in Lisa Huyne's article, “The women are clearly being used as objects to reinforce the status of the men in the video. The men have all the control and status...Whereas the women have no status and are totally open to be exploited ogled and used..."  However, if the women in the video allow for such provocative behavior and let it continue, then it makes it look okay - which in Robin Thicke's mind, it is!  When confronted about the subject he says, "What I enjoy about the video is that we’re not ogling and degrading them, we’re laughing and being silly with them.”  Is it truly harmless play?  

Jennifer Lai agrees with Huyne when she says, "It's true that the song's music video undoubtedly objectifies women."  When it comes down to it, I think that it's the music video that brings up all of the controversy. The song lyrics are not as bad as what the video entails them to be.  Lai does a perfect job of detailing many of the lines throughout the song, noting that women are actually given the upper hand in many of the statements. Robin Thicke's music video is definitely harmful to the eyes, but the song isn't any different from any other pop culture song.  In my mind, Robin Thicke is only playing a role in pop culture; he's making his mark and trying to stand out from other artists.  Hey hey hey...it got everyone's attention didn't it? 

Autobiography of a Face

"Autobiography of a Face" by Lucy Grealy is a novel that will keep you interested throughout the whole 223 pages.  I was unsure of what to expect when I first stared reading Grealy's tale, but as I continued to read, her story hit home.  It was great that I had the opportunity to read a novel by a character who I could truly relate to.  

Lucy was just an average nine year old girl; she had so much ahead of her.  However, one event out on the playground would change her life forever.  Lucy, not one of the most gifted athletes, was running to catch a kickball out at recess when her and another boy had a head on collision.  The prognosis was a broken jaw, but that was only the beginning.

Soon after the accident, Lucy continued to feel pain radiate through her jaw, and a bump began to grow there.  After careful examination, Lucy was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer.  I learned later on that if this accident never occurred, the tumor may not have even caused a problem.  It was also brought to my attention that she would not have found the cancer until it was too late if it wasn't for the accident.  With this said, the collision may have been a miracle.

This hits home with me because as a sophomore in high school, I was continually left breathless and in indescribible pain.  When I took a visit to the doctor I was diagnosed with ovarian cysts.  One day in march I left school for emergency surgery to have them removed, and the doctor decided to also remove my appendix.  I was later told that there was a malignant tumor in my appendix.  I then had to have an MRI to ensure that it had not spread elsewhere.  Thankfully, it hadn't.

Like Lucy, I was fortunate enough to discover the cancer early simply by chance.  If either of us had not been so lucky, I can't imagine what we could have been left to face down the road.  

"Women are equal, just different"

Fuller and Steinem are two very different authors from two very different times, but they have one very similar viewpoint when it comes to the reality in which women are treated and how they should justly be treated.  Reading from line to line and from article to article, I was able to recognize that women truly are oppressed.  This was something I thought only happened in many of the eastern countries.  However, it does happen here in the United States, too.  Although it may not be as visible, distinct, and harsh, it occurs more often than one would think.  Centuries and centuries ago, women were treated far differently from men, but overtime, the gap has slowly grown closer together.  This is why it is hard for many to recognize and admit that oppression does still exist.  Like Steinem stated, "logic has nothing to do with oppression."  It exists because of how surrounding influences treat it.  In a way, it is "learned."  If one grows up thinking it is okay to treat women unfairly, he or she has known nothing else, so it is viewed as okay behavior.

Although this may be an extreme (since it was written back in the 1800's), the statement regarding how "a tone of feeling towards women as towards slaves" exists, it does have some truth behind it.  Discrimination is discrimination, no matter the severity; people are people and should be treated as such.  Fuller's writing was a bit difficult to comprehend, but I was easily able to grasp the meaning for why she wrote it.  Her goal was to show the reader that "there is but one law for all souls, and, if there is to be an interpreter of it, he comes not as man, or son of man, but as Son of God."  All are equal - men and women.  

As I read through Steinem's piece, I actually "LOLed."  I loved how she captivated my attention right from the beginning.  She was able to transform a very serious topic into something that was very relate-able. Steinem has a certain power that allows her to write what could be considered a "questionable" paper and still get her point across.  From the true vulnerability of a man to all of the hilarious analogies, Steinem communicated to the reader that women have to say, "no" to the unequal treatment from men.  Steinem easily relates to Fuller when it comes to the idea that "women are equal, just different."  Women need to stop bickering with one another and realize where the true heart of the problem is.  After all, "the power of justifications would go on and on.  If we let them."      

Is Google Making Us Stupid?

Nicholas Carr's article definitely solidified the fact that the internet using population simply uses "a form of skimming activity" when they read articles.  If it weren't for the fact that I had to read the entire thing in order to complete this blog and not feel guilty, I certainly would have skimmed it.  Not because "I'm just seeking convenience," but because it was dull and drab.  It dragged on and on, and it didn't even mention anything about Google until the fifth page!  This is the very reason why many people do not read or wish to read an article or book through and through.  If the content does not grab the readers attention and interests, who can blame him or her for not reading it?  It is unfair for Carr to say that "Google is making us stupid."  How can he generalize for an entire population?  Each brain differs from person to person.  There are plenty of people out there who enjoy reading and who yearn for information on a variety of topics.  Some may enjoy basketball over football, and some enjoy watching YouTube videos over reading articles; it is simply a personal preference.  Whether someone is reading a book, skimming an article, browsing the web, or is deeply engrossed in a novel, it is unfair to think that everyone can come away with "real wisdom" instead of "the conceit of wisdom."  It is important to know the difference between wisdom and intelligence. 

In today's world, research on the internet is encouraged.  Many students for example, are able to increase their knowledge base on a subject for a school project.  Carr made a good point when he discussed that the "new forms of "reading" are emerging as users "power browse" horizontally through titles, contents pages and abstracts going for quick wins."  However, I don't necessarily see this as a loss.  If the student is able to go through an article picking out the important things, why is it an issue?  That's the main goal isn't it?  How can Google be "making us stupid" when knowledge and information is taken from it?  Just like "our map and our clock, our printing press and our typewriter, our calculator and our telephone, and our radio and TV," the internet is simply another invention.  What is society going to do - downgrade from what has already become?  This simply isn't going to happen.  There are many negative outlooks when it comes to the internet, but it is also important to look at the upsides.  The fact is, it is up to each individual to decide if it is worth it or not.        

The Ethics of Living Jim Crow: An Autobiographical Sketch

Throughout my schooling experience, I have found that it is very important to gain knowledge when it comes to the subject of prejudices, discrimination, segregation, and racism.  These aspects of history have shaped the United States into what it has become today.  Each year in school there is at least one subject or situation that brings up racial discrimination, and this can lead many to focus on previous events from history.  It has come to my attention that maybe, this topic is hammered into student's brains because those who are not aware of the past are doomed to repeat it.

The story by Richard Wright of Chicago is one that allows me to view and recognize one part of discrimination that I have not fully analyzed: how African American's come to realize the "stay in your place" attitude.  Growing up and reading several stories similar to Wright's, I always figured that every African American knew exactly how to act in public and towards the white population; it seemed to me as if it were instinctual.  However, similarly to math for instance, it is learned overtime.  Richard begins his journey to "Jim Crow Wisdom" when he is scolded by his mother for having been "engaged in war with the white boys." Following this event, he is then slapped in the face by the horrid realization that he is ultimately forced to leave his first job for something he didn't even do; it was the hatred of his fellow employees Morrie and Pease that led him down that path.  He is put into many lose lose situations because of the color of his skin. White people are able to pass through life with little threat of harm, "but the color of a Negro's skin makes him easily recognizable, makes him suspect, converts him into a defenseless target" Wright states.  

As Richard travels the bumpy roller coaster that takes him in and out of work, he becomes much more aware of his role in society.  The stage of the story is set when Richard is first made aware of Jim Crow Laws thanks to his mother.  Complications from Richard's jobs then lead him to the climax where he is forced to be pushed around without being able to stand up for himself.  Then, something comes to surprise Richard.  When he is working for the optical company in Memphis, he is treated more like a living, breathing human being.  Although he is still not viewed as equal to the white men, he is engaged in conversations, which may seem small, but it is a change for the better.  By Richard's fourth job, the reader can see that he has become "Jim Crow Wise," which I inferred as the resolution to the story. 

Talk of the Town

When the planes from the September 11 attacks of 2001 crashed into the hearts, minds, safety, and security of millions, I was almost five years old.  Although it is difficult to remember much of what happened in my life at that time and age, I can honestly say that I do remember the occurrence of 9/11.  I can still see myself standing in the narrow hallway of my home that led to my parents bedroom, wondering why my mother locked herself away in her room to ensure privacy as she talked on the phone.  She was trying to protect me and my sister from the hurt and pain that everyone else was experiencing.  I could sense that something was very wrong, but I was too young to fathom and understand an event as tragic as this.  The atmosphere in the air from that very moment and that very day was frantic and trying.  Authors John Updike and Susan Sontag would attest to this statement.  Both have written about their experience and thoughts in regards to the events that took place on 9/11, and they have expressed them in a way that contradict one another; the opinions are almost polar opposites.

On the northern side, there is the story by John Updike.  Throughout his essay he explained his own personal experience and story about what he had seen that day.  The event seemed so unreal that Updike describes it as if he were watching "the false intimacy of television."  He provides the reader with such clear images that one could almost say he or she was witnessing the moment and memory with him.  Updike personifies the attack, which makes it more visible and descriptive.  Statements such as "ballooning flame," "tinkling shiver," and "a groan of concussion" are perfect examples of the style he used.  Although it seems as if this day would never end, and the United States would be left in ruins, Updike says something that could leave a reader with a sense of hope.  When Updike states, "the ruins were still sending out smoke, but New York looked glorious," it sends out a message that says sure, we may have been hurt, but this act of terrorism isn't going to hold our country back. 

On the southern hemisphere, Susan Sontag throws down her ideas in a much more rigid and opinionated fashion.  Sontag picks apart, scrutinizes, and criticizes whether or not the United States truly "is O.K." like the government leaders had stated.  She argues her disgust with the fact that although many of America's leaders disagree with what "robotic President" George W. Bush has to say, they go along with it anyway. Because of this, Sontag argues that this country is "unworthy of a mature democracy" because decisions aren't being made in everyone's best interests; it is simply a game of follow the leader.  What a reader can take out of this essay is that even though many view the United States as a number one power, courageous, strong, and on the top, it is not okay to rely on these thoughts to believe that nothing bad could ever happen. Sontag agrees to this statement when she says, ""Our country is strong," we are told again and again.  I for one don't find this entirely consoling."  9/11 goes to show that America is not invincible; there is always vulnerability present.

Simply by reading the two articles from "Talk of the Town," it is easy to recognize that there are a number of different opinions following the attacks on 9/11.  Like Updike, some see it as a moment to remember and prosper from, and like Sontag, some people question the morals of our government and how the United States should continue forward.  However, there is a platform of middle ground.  As each calendar year ticks by, it always comes back to September 11, where we remember those who we have lost. 

 

Chloe Howery in a Nutshell

I just wanted to give a shout-out to my fellow Compquistadors!

Welcome to my blog "Woohoo!  AP Comp!" which is sure to describe my excitement for this quest we are all about to take together.  To start off with, I believe it is my duty to tell each of you a little bit about myself. My name is Chloe Howery, and I will be starting off this upcoming school year as a senior, and I will hopefully end the school year this way, too.  There's no way I want to become a "Super Senior!"  My reputation would surely take a dig from that one.  With that said, let's get down to it.  You may think you know me pretty well, but you're in for a show!

1. Many refer to me as pretty nutty, which one could assume to be true because I do eat a lot of nuts.  My personality definitely displays this act that I take on.  Whether they're cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, you name it, I've tried it.  It would be a dream come true if someone created some sort of "nut bar," which I would imagine to be similar to Orange Leaf, Cherry Berry, or Salad Creations for example. Could you imagine?  It would be absolutely insane!

2. Some of the most common pet peeves some people might have may be when someone says "like" or "umm" too frequently in a conversation, when someone reads your text messages over your shoulder, when people think that it's okay to take your food off of your plate, or when people don't use correct grammar when it comes to "your vs. you're" (which shouldn't happen because we are AP Comp students).  For me however, one of my greatest pet peeves is when clothes fall off of their hanger.  Talk about irritating!  Why can't hangers just do their job?

3. I don't particularly enjoy reading, which makes me question why I took American Novels last year. Obviously I wasn't thinking quite right when I registered for my classes.  I don't understand why we can't read entertaining novels in school (no offense Mr. Kunkle).  When it comes to a magazine with all of the hot gossip though, I'm all for that.  It's a must to stay up to date on what's going on with the top celebrities.

4. When I was younger I had this amazing fish, Bucky, that could do sick tricks.  I could hold the food above the tank, out of the water, and he would leap out, grab the food, and dive back into the water.  How crazy is that?!  It was quite the sight.  Too bad he didn't do some sort of flip, but either way, it was insane. Basically, what I'm trying to get at here is that I'm an amazing pet owner.  It might be important for you to take into consideration though that I have only owned fish before you go letting me take care of your pets.

5. In today's day and age, there are so many technologies and inventions that have taken over much of what we do, but my favorite "invention" of all time would have to be babies.  I know that they aren't really an invention per-say , or at least shouldn't be labeled as so, but I think they're pretty darn awesome if you ask me.  How can people say they hate kids and babies when they're just so stinkin' adorable?  This is why when I graduate high school I plan on continuing my schooling to college and medical school in order to become an obstetrician.

6. The phrase "everything happens for a reason" has a lot of truth behind it.  Whenever I am going through a hard time or am trying to understand why things happen, I remind myself that there is a reason for everything. For me, it is one of the most inspirational and inspiring quotes out there.  It simply makes a lot of sense. There are so many things in our world that have unanswered meanings for why they are the way they are, so this saying helps me come back to middle ground and realize that there isn't always a straight answer for everything.

7. I think that it is very important that everyone live life to the fullest.  Like it is always stated, life is short (although in reality it is the longest thing we will ever do...take that thought for a spin!), so why not get out there and do everything you can to make it worth while?  I was able to recognize how important this is because of my past medical scares.  Things can sneak up on you in the blink of an eye.  It is important to maintain a high quality of life and realize that a strong focus should be on yourself and your own happiness.

8. Another cool thing about myself is that I just so happen to have a heart shaped birthmark on my right hand.  Obviously my big heart radiates throughout my body because it just can't contain itself.  It symbolizes how willing I am to allow people into my life and truly care for them.

I hope these facts about "Chloe Howery in a Nutshell" were able to show many of you that there is more to me than what you already know.  By the way, there is definitely more where that came from!  I'm sure I could whip up a few more if you are interested.  Stay tuned; you won't want to miss everything else I have to say!