Frankenstein chapter 24

In the final chapter of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Victor instills upon Walton the task of completing his mission to kill the creature. Walton having this tremendous challenge, takes his new friend Victor's request to his full ability. Walton understands his friend is dying and its is his final wish and last order which must be accomplished. Additionally, not only does Walton listen to Victor's story and final request, but he examines Victor's life in comparison to his own. Walton observes that, "He[Victor] seems to feel his own worth, and the greatness of his fall,"(Shelley,156). Walton sees Victor's very similar voyage, pursuit, accomplishments, and the man that he is, but also sees the pitfalls and downfalls of Victor's character. Walton puts into perspective his own journey in relation to that of Victors, which can be seen when he describes, "Not because the way was smooth and placid as a southern sea, but because it was full of dangers and terror; because at every new incident, your fortitude was to be called forth, and your courage exhibited; because danger and death surrounded it, and these you were to brave and overcome,"(Shelley, 159). And so, understanding that the risks of all endeavors will be prevalent, courage must be obtained despite hardships, Walton sticks his chin up and faces the creature. Although he doesn't kill it, like was Victor's intention, he approaches it and learns the monster's intents and future fate.

Frankenstein chapter 22

Upon discovering his fate which is to be revealed on his wedding night, Victor in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley is somber. The thought of the harm which was going to come to him on this night: his death, and the harm that could come to Elizabeth, frightened him. The words of the daemon which inflicted the curse upon him, rang through the memories in his head. It is in this scene of the book that the author uses mood to further the emotions of Victor and the situation. The deep sadness which I felt, which was invoked by words such as "destroy" and "tear," made me sympathize with Victor and feel pain for him. For example, "..On that night would the daemon employ every art to destroy me, and tear me from the glimpse of happiness which promised partly to console my sufferings,"(Shelley,139). Victor's struggle with the knowledge of such a horrible fate, taunts him and consumes his every thought. Even though he knew the daemon might seek revenge for his lack of affection for the creature, I still pity Victor and the thought of his wedding night bringing upon so much unhappiness. Victor, having displayed worry and troubles since the creation, is still plagued by this, and this unhappiness is continually marked by the mood displayed especially in this chapter.

Frankenstein chapter 19

Chapter 19 of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley keys into the emotional state of Victor and his anger at himself for creating a creature which has become such a threat to society. He examines his youthful days, and condemns his new being so full of curiosity and invention that caused him and many others' pitfalls. He has lost hope for himself and has acquired hatred for himself. This is seen when he says, "But I am a blasted tree, the bolt has entered my soul; and I felt then that I should survive to exhibit what I shall soon cease to be -- a miserable spectacle of wrecked humanity, pitiable to others, and intolerable to myself,"(Shelley,116-117). The use of personification of himself to a blasted tree resembles his view of himself as destroyed existence. He views himself harshly and blames himself for the harm that is mankinds', brought on by the creature whom Victor made. Frankenstein cannot even bear himself or the horribleness he has brought onto others. The troubled mood of Victor spirals him into an even deeper depression which is seen hereafter. I hope Victor can find some way to forgive himself for his actions which he was ignorant to know would have such a horrendous effect. 

Frankenstein chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley gives the once benevolent creature the horrible bad name that we associate the monster in Frankenstein to have. In the opening of this chapter, a simile is employed to describe the change in the creature. "I was like a wild beast that had broken the toils, destroying the objects that obstructed me, and ranging through the wood with a stag-like swiftness,"(Shelley,97). Suddenly, the monster is propelled by hatred, and his change in character is compared to the outrage of a wild beast. This signals the creature's prompt for revenge upon humans who reject him and whom he finds evil. Furthermore, "I declared ever-lasting war against the species, and, more than all, against him who had formed me, and sent me forth to this insupportable misery,"(Shelley,97). What is to follow in the preceding pages of the novel are most likely going to events of destruction and hatred inflicted to any one who crosses the creature's path. This prejudice the creature has for all humans will have horrible effects. I am starting to see the creature as having the capability and motives for killing William and maybe even more. The creature has become the daemon, wretch, and monster which Victor has claimed him all along to be.

Frankenstein Chapter 13

In chapter 13 of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the creature becomes acquainted with emotions, understanding them, the emotion word attached to his every feeling, and sympathises with the feelings of the DeLacey family. With the creature's growing awareness of the world, he questions more and more man's reasoning and abilities, as well as his own. Particularly, when pondering the honor of being a powerful being seemed favorable to him, he also considered man's ability to bring about destruction to others with their power. "For a long time I could not conceive how one man could go forth to murder his fellow, or even why there were laws and governments; but when I heard details of vice and bloodshed, my wonder ceased, and I turned away with disgust and loathing,"(Shelley,84). This incident in the novel prompted me to consider if such a creature who rejected killing, could in fact be the killer of William, or ever turn out to be a killer. How could someone who dejects bloodshed be one who inflicts this upon others? The hatred the creature has for murder asserts the idea that he is benevolent as he claims to have been since creation. Whether or not this goodness will be tainted by society's rejection, Victor's despise of him, or something prompting him to lash out, I do not know. Although as of this point, the creature shows no signs of wretchedness, but only containing sympathy for others and hatred for what may harm them.

Frankenstein 9-12

The most notable aspect that appeared in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley in chapters 9-12 was the element of surprise I felt. First, I was surprised and nervous for Victor's encounter with the creature, but the fact that they talked made me question their terms. Didn't see that coming! This is certainly a step forward from the creature's prior muttering of inarticulate sounds. Now, in chapter 10, the creature confronts Frankenstein about the hatred between them. While this may seem to result in conflict, the two actually begin confiding in each other in similar ways as Robert and Victor. In fact, the creature and Frankenstein "..entered the hut together...and seated myself [Victor] by the fire which my odious companion had lighted,"(Shelley,70). Just prior, Frankenstein was running from the monster, disgusted by his ugliness, and furious over the creature's murdering of William. Now, they sit by a fire together and tell another story. Here though, the creature tells his story to Victor, unlike Victor's tale to Robert. The frame story setup is displayed in this story-upon-story layout, which can become confusing if one does not pay attention to the change in character's speaking. Overall though, I have been more interested because of the frame story method which gives reader's an in depth perspective and look at multiple character's lives.

Frankenstein Chapters 5-8

   In chapter 5 of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, I noticed the allusion to Dante which was made. After retiring to bed to sleep trying to forget about the horrors of just creatung a monster, Frankenstein sees the creature in his room. "He held up the curtain of the bed; and his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me,"(Shelley,35). The shock of Frankenstein's face-to-face encounter of the creature upon waking up frigtened him so that after fleeing from the home, he regards the monster as something "..even Dante could not have conceived,"(Shelley,36). This allusion signifies the nastiness and evilness the creature must have withheld to be so terrible not even Dante, who having been in the fires of hell, could have imagined. This allusion furthered the image of Frankenstein and his hideousness. Continuing on past chapter 5, I noticed the toll that creating the monster had on Frankenstein, who later came to the conclusion that his creation was the murderer of his brother William. Frankenstein, assuring Elizabeth the death was not her fault, but rather another's, found it hard to explain that the monster was at fault. Frankenstein didn't want others to know about his experiment. But, secretly, Frankenstein was being eaten alive by the guilt he felt for creating the monster which lead to such terribleness. In Frankenstein's low state, I noticed the mood which describes how depressed Frankenstein became. "I cannot describe what I then felt. I had before experienced sensations of horror; and I have endeavoured to bestow upon them adequate expressions, but words cannot convey an idea of the heart-sickening despair that I then endure,"(Shelley,57). The use of words such as "heart-sickening" reveal Frankenstein's despair over what he believes to be his fault. Frankenstein seems to be at his lowest because throughout chapter 8, I notice more negative tone. "But I, the true murderer, felt the never dying worm alive in my bosom, which allowed of no hope or consolation,"(Shelley, 59). Frankenstein feels pain which he compares to a pestering worm which lives within him. Overall, I don't believe Frankenstein should blame himself for his curiosity going wrong which developed a horror.

Frankenstein Chapter 3

In chapter 3 of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Frankenstein sits in on M. Waldman's chemistry lecture at the university. Readers key into the idea that his speech is going to be pertenent information in the research and motives of Frankenstein later in the book. So, overall, what M. Waldman says is something Frankenstein will never forget. M. Waldman states that: "The ancient teachers of this science...with its own shadows,"(Shelley,27). This lecture lead to Frankenstein's ephiphany, which I believe to be a significant rhetorical device used in this chapter. The words, having such a powerful impact on Frankenstein, defined his being. Furthermore, "..formed the mechanism of my being,"(Shelley,27). I believe that at this moment in the book, Frankenstein is inspired to begin his experimentations in science. His epiphany came from learning that he could create something magnificent: making life come from inanimate objects, and felt propelled to put every ounce of himself into his work. His obsession in the creating process defined himself. Frankenstein's creation determined and foreshadowed his eventual fate.

Frankenstein Chapter 2

  In chapter two of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the use of flashback takes readers back to Robert Walton's childhood. After Robert's reminiscing of the glorious moments of his past, of time spent with Elizabeth, and his sometimes violent, but mostly eager desire to learn. This yearning for knowledge is later continued out by Robert's interest in natural philosophy. However, once Robert jumps back to the present time there is a change of mood from the previous happy recollections of his past and growing up. When examining his current disposition and state of mind, he draws on negativity and misfortune which elude that he is very depressed. "I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self,"(Shelley, 20). I believe that that which taints Walton's mind could be a reference to his research and development of the creature. I feel this a logical assumption given the result of his experiment: the creating of a living monster from something inanimate, to probably have an overwhelming toll on Walton. The happy memories of his younger days seem to be the only positivity Robert can rely on in his life, due to the fact that his emotional state is going downhill. I predict the revealing of the real cause of his misfortune, if it is the creating of the creature, to be revealed soon in the novel.

Frankenstein Letters

 Upon reading the introductory letters of the novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the author has revealed the character of Robert Walton and later introduced an interesting stranger. Using characterization, readers have been given some insight into the characters thus far, and two of the characters (Robert and the stranger) have been compared and contrasted. This seems to be the most prominent literary technique implored, specifically in letter four. The suspense which grows from this letter, and the eventual revealing start to the stranger's story, have kept me interested, especially after learning a little about the mysterious stranger. After Robert and his vessel's crew saved and revived the stranger from his dogsled under icy conditions, the stranger is physically characterized as having eyes with an expression of "..wildness, and even madness,"(Shelley, 9). However, later in the letter, the supposed crazy man offers insight and wisdom to Robert. The two form a bond based on confiding in the other and relinquishing their thoughts and beliefs with each other. After Robert speaks of his desire for companionship, the stranger offers him his own thoughts. "We are unfashioned creatures, but half made up, if one wiser, better, dearer than ourselves- such a friend ought to be- do not lend his aid to perfectionate our weak and faulty natures,"(Shelley,12). I found this moment in the novel to be an intimate sharing of feelings and the start to a friendship, like Robert wishes so much to have. I find the stranger's eventual telling of his story to Walton to be interesting, even after the establishment of the two's differences, the stranger is comfortable telling his story. The stranger, feeling that while Walton has"hope and the world before you[him], and have no cause for despair," he "has lost everything and cannot begin life anew,"(Shelley,12). This feeling of hopelessness gives the impression that the stranger's story will be one of despair, but still the letter ends inviting Walton in on the story of the stranger himself's life.

Blog 5: APO 96225

I feel that most of the poem: APO 96225 by Larry Rottmann was a mix of miscommunication and understanding, as well as a lot of irony. The son, writing to his parents about his experiences with being in the war front during the Vietnam War, express his attempt at high spirits. However his feelings conveyed through his letters are interpreted negatively, as depressing feelings of the son. The soldier, trying at first to come across as having a good attitude, despite the war conditions, is told by his mother to tell his family "..what it's really like,"(Rottman 846). So, the speaker continues to use positivity: "The sunsets here are spectacular,"(Rottman 846)! The soldier is trying to make a bad situation into a good one, while the mother is concerned for her son and begs him to tell all about it. Upon doing so, by revealing that he "..killed a man. Yesterday, I helped drop napalm on women and children,"(Rottman 846), the mother then gets upset by the tragedy. The fact that the parents want their son to open up about what is wrong and the conditions of war, then, get upset upon him telling them, is ironic. Don't the parents know that war contains no happiness? How can they be offended by their son's bluntness in telling the truth of how he feels and what he has endured?

Blog 4:Much Madness is divinest Sense

The most notable rhetorical device used by Emily Dickinson in Much Madness is divinest Sense, would be two paradoxes. The poem is suggesting that insanity is a good thing to have, but also stating that this sense is insanity. The author's use of "..a discerning eye,"(Dickinson 830), describes the first idea of insanity being good, but only to the people with a keen sense of seeing this sense in others. Discerning may also refer to the foolish or ignorant people who believe that insanity is good. However, the author offers the rebuttal view of the majority of people. The second theory that good sense is insane is mostly accepted, " 'Tis the majority,"(Dickinson 830). But after recognizing both approaches to insanity, the speaker gives order to the reader to, "prevail," "assent" and "demure." The speaker implies that to agree is to be sane. On the flip side, the speaker says modesty in this regard is harmful. All in all, Dickinson's look uses paradoxes to connect our insanity and senses.

Blog 3: I Felt A Funeral In My Brain

In Emily Dickinson's poem I Felt A Funeral In My Brain, the author uses imagery to describe the speaker's imagination of their funeral. The poem is divided into stanzas which describe the speaker's transition from lying in the coffin, to eventual death through burial. The author implies this by stating, "..I heard them lift a box and creak across my soul,"(Dickinson 776). With this thought of the funeral service, the speaker feels overwhelmed, and then "..wrecked, solitary,"(Dickinson 776), once knowing that her life, "..being but an ear,"(Dickinson 776), was being called to end (the bell) by the heavens. This thinking of the speaker's shows their feeling of lonliness upon the thought of death. Which, unfortunately, by the last stanza, the speaker dies: "..finished knowing-then,-"(Dickinson 776). Overall, the author's use of symbolism in the bell and ear represent the bell alarming the speaker that death is at hand and their noticing this warning. The imagery, such as usage of describing the service and their thoughts and feelings towards death, help the progression of the poem to the eventual death of the speaker.

Blog 2: Miss Brill

Katherine Mansfield in Miss Brill uses unique personification towards the end of the story. In the beginning of the story there is a carefree tone that goes along with Miss Brill's excitement for hearing the band and joining in the Sunday community festivities, as she wears her adorned fur collar. However, once Miss Brill eavesdrops on people around her's conversations, she hears a young boy and girl say, "It's her fi-fur which is so funny,"(Mansfield,186).. Suddenly, there is a shift in tone from happiness to sudden embarrassment and saddness. To show the change in mood and tone, Mansfield uses personification to connect the fur animal with having feelings. To show, "She unclasped the necklet quickly; quickly, without looking , laid it inside. But when she put the lid on she thought she heard something crying,"(Mansfield 186). Referring to the fur crying, is Mansfield way of associating human actions to an animal. This conveys to the reader the idea that something, thought beautiful by one, may not be appreciated or valued by another. Also, I feel Miss Brill contains some embarassment to have the people's opinion affect her so much that she would put away an item she really loved. Finally, I believe the animal's crying is used to express sympathy for feeling unwanted and having it's beauty tucked away back into the box.

Blog 1: Bartleby

One of the most prominent literary techniques implored by Herman Melville in Bartleby the Scrivener, is foreshadowing. Early on in the short story, Melville claims that he didn't know much of Bartleby, though the aspects he does, he finds to be astonishing. He mentions knowing "..one vague report which will appear in the sequel," (Melville,642). Melville is hinting that he will reveal some kind of document that is fitting to the story later on. Turns out, nearing the end of the book, readers find Bartleby to have been "...a subordinate cleerk in the Dead Letter Office at Washington,"(Melville,675). Alas! Some of Bartleby's life and past have been uncovered. Aside from this, earlier in the short story, Melville uses characterization to describe Bartleby as being, "..pallidly neat.."(Melville 648). Now, upon finding out Bartleby was associated with dead letters, he uses "..pallid hoplessness.." to describe Bartleby yet again. Melville's use of charcterization not only for Bartlby, but other characters like Ginger Nut, Turkey, and Nippers, helps to convey their personality which is revealed in their treatment towards their job as a copyist, treatment to the lawyer, and Bartleby's strange persona. Overall, Melville noticeably touches on characterization and foreshadowing which tie into how the story unfolds, and the development of the characters.

Blog 5-Death, Be Not Proud

Death, Be Not Proud, by John Donne, seeks to have people reexamine death as not being so much a means of end but a beginning. Death should not be viewed as dreadful, but comparable to a pleasurable sleep with a new awakening to eternal life. "Death, be not proud, though some have called thee mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so..from rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be, much pleasure,"(Donne,971). Death is equated with rest and awakening once again to realize death itself is dead. To prove, "One short sleep passed, we wake eternally, and death shall be no more; death, thou shalt die,"(Donne,972). Additionally, Donne incorporates rhetorical question into the text. "Why swell'st thou then,"(Donne,972)? Throughout, Donne has much conviction that death is not to be feared and is asking why one should worry at all about death. Donne so confidently believes in eternal life and the absence of total death, that he is confused at any uncertainty of this being so.

Blog 4-Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night

In the poem: Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night, by Dylan Thomas, stanzas are separated for the five different kinds of men in which the poem focuses on. With each of these men: wise men, good men, wild men, and grave men, the author hones in on their differing stances between life and death. The author does this while also attaching similes to these men's descriptions. "Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,"(Thomas,968)..show good men to do much goodwill and deeds to others, saddened that by death, they can no longer be of service to others. Another example: "Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight, blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,"(Thomas,968). Through simile, grave men are expressed as those who, fight for their life in all ways possible. The author overall encourages people to "rage" against death. This means people should not  worry and let the uncertainty of death overtake their thoughts and keep them from living in the now. Various types of men have different ways of living their life out, and thus, have different feelings towards death when it comes.

Blog 3- Crossing The Bar

In Crossing The Bar by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, I noticed symbolism in the speaker's approach of death. The line, "And may there be no moaning of the bar...And may there be no saddness of farewell,"(Alfred,886), express Alfred's plea for others to not mourn over his death. The bar which refers to a harbor's sandbar, suggest the speaker is comparing death to a journey of greater life and happiness. Thus, we should not grieve over his passing, but rejoice in knowing he is embarking, crossing the bar, and meeting his Pilot, (Alfred,886). I found the term: "Pilot" to symbolize God who is like a captain or pilot, navigating our way through life and to Him in the afterlife. Home is equated with death in the second stanza when the speaker says, "turns again home,"(Alfred,886). Home, the final destination at the end of the bar, is death of his body and eternal life of his soul. The speaker understands his journey may be treacherous: "The flood may bear me far,"(Alfred,886), but he keeps the hope of seeing his Creator and home close in mind.

Blog 2: A Rose For Emily

The sporadic revealing of events in non-chronological order in: A Rose For Emily, by William Faulkner, match the first person plural point of view of the story. The story, more or less a major compilation of gossip and bias of townsfolk and their ignorance of who Miss Emily really was, make some of the accounts up for question, considering the perhaps unreliability of the mysterious narrator. Nonetheless, Emily is portrayed as one who clings onto the few relationships she has ever had in her life: that with her father and with Homer Baron. I initially pitied her circumstance after her father's death, even though their relationship wasn't a strong one, her father was a significant figure in her life. "When her father died, it got about that the house was all that was left to her,"(Faulkner,284). This just goes to show Emily's loneliness and lack of companionship. So, once meeting Homer and "driving in the yellow-wheeled buggy,"(Faulkner,285) with him, this seemed like a godsend for Emily: finally, someone she can love. Emily did just that: love Homer Baron, only he didn't seem to return the affection because of their true incompatibility. However, even though not explicitly stated, the conclusion of this story, ending with the discovery of an unidentifiable body, I believe to be Homer's. Perhaps, Emily did find a way to hold onto Homer Baron unlike her father whose body was taken away and buried. Emily was able to  have Homer Baron and love him, even if he didn't love her.

Blog 1: The Lottery

 The Lottery by Shirley Jackson, implores a barbaric ritual developed throughout time and still used in a more modern society. Upon early reading, the reference to the tradition as a lottery tricked me into believing that this would be an exciting game of luck, wealth, and good fortune. Quickly, this assumption was proved wrong. Quite the opposite, the ritual by the townspeople on June 27th has the folks excited, but not in a positive way, in fact, their anxiousness is out of hopefulness that their name won't be drawn for the lottery. The story makes it clear that the lottery brings death upon one if their name is pulled from the black, decaying box. So much irony at this point in the story has been revealed with the negative connotation of the term, "lottery," and ironic too, that once Tessie Hutchinson's name is selected, townspeople turn on her, who, just before, was seemingly in good nature with the other woman and people of the town. Upon Tessie's arrival to the lottery gathering late, "the people separated good-humoredly to let her through,"(Jackson,266).. Later, these people are stoning her without remorse or second thought. In this town, the lottery is accepted so much that, people are so steadfast to the tradition, that whoever's name is drawn, the killing of that person goes without rebuttal. After my completion of this story, all I can think is: How can no person stop this?

Blog 5-The Glass Menagerie

In the final scene of The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams, Laura blows out candles to close out the play. This occurs after Tom walks through cities on his journey away from home. I feel that his motives for leaving become useless, and that his running away from his family catches up to him. Tom pays the price for believing that just by walking out the door, he could forget and rid his every thought of his family. Tom's sister, Laura, still haunts him, "Oh, Laura,Laura, I tried to leave you behind me, but I am more faithful than I intended to be,"(Williams,1289)! Tom didn't expect to have any connection whatsoever with his sister after his departure, but now she seems to follow him everywhere he goes. Maybe Tom's guilt is the cause of his anxious thoughts, but I believe that there will always be some reminder of Laura and Amanda or some piece of home that lies within him. However, I believe the candles symbolize a closing out on Laura's concern over her brother. She blows them out, which shows she is done and ready to move on in her life, past her brother's leaving. I was thinking, maybe the father who left the family too is still plagued by memories and thoughts of his children and wife he left behind, just as Tom.

Blog3-The Glass Menagerie

In The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams, Tom's situation is contradicting and ironic. In scene six, Tom talks to Jim about leaving his mother, Amanda, and moving away. "I am about to move...I'm like my father. The bastard son of a bastard! See how he grins? And he's been absent going on sixteen years,"(Williams,1269)! Tom relates himself to his father which is ironic considering his earlier complaints of having to work to support his family, all because he is the man of the household now after being abandoned by his father. For example, Tom shows his anger by saying, "For sixty-five dollars a month I give up all that I dream of doing and being ever,"(Williams,1247). Tom, frustrated by his commitment to his family, is no longer willing to commit any longer and wants to get away from his mother and sister.Tom believes that the only way out of dealing with his family is to move away from them, and finds this achievable because his father was able to. I don't blame Tom for wanting to get away from an irritating family, but I also somewhat disagree with his decision out of sympathy for how his mother and sister will get along without him. Overall, I guess it can be said: like father, like son.

Blog 2- The Glass Menagerie

One of the most prominent symbols used in The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams is Laura being like the glass which she takes interest and fascination in. The glass collection, which spark the book's title, are a representation of Laura, which are presented in ways that correlate with Laura's characteristic qualities. I first noticed this when Laura, cries out when Tom shatters her menagerie at the end of scene 3. "It strikes against the shelf of Laura's glass collection, there is a tinkle of shattering glass. Laura cries out as if wounded,"(Williams,1248). Laura shows emotional attachment to her collection and feels herself affected when harm comes in the glass' way. Just like the statement in the opening of the play, "she is like a piece of her own glass collection, too exquisitely fragile to move from the shelf,"(Williams,1234). Laura feels shattered, just as her glass is, and is too socially anxious and reserved to ever move away from the "shelf," in this case her comfortable surroundings and comfort zone. Therefore, unfortunately, Laura may never branch out and leave her shell and become more solid and withstandable. I feel that as the play continues, glass will be further associated with Laura, her uniqueness, and her fragility.

Blog 1-The Glass Menagerie

In scene two of The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams, Amanda, in a heated conversation with her daughter, Laura, over her absence from school, yields Amanda's own inner conflict. Amanda faces her husband's abandonment and sees his leaving as a sign that she should have married one of her other many suitors. When Amanda hears of unmarried women and where they end up, as "..spinsters living upon the grudging patronage of sister's husband or brother's wife,"(Williams,1243) she laughs at them. As a single parent, Amanda scorns those women, who too are unmarried, but live in complete dependency of others. Even too, in her tirade, Amanda uses a metaphor to describe the basis of these womens' lives. She says,"little birdlike women without any nest-eating the crust of humility all their life,"(Williams,1243). Amanda believes these women are helpless in the fact that they have any husband and must rely on the charity of others, thus, feeling sorry for themselves. I don't believe Amanda should separate herself from these women in the sense that she shares the same circumstance of being without a husband as they do. She too feels inferior and prideful over them because she can hold position and make a more independent life for herself. Amanda's scorn for these women is much like her constant nagging towards Tom and Laura.

Blog 5-The Joy Of Cooking

    In describing the narrator's brother and sister's tongue and heart in The Joy Of Cooking, by Elaine Magarrell, the narrator explains how she would cook the body parts. Gross! The tone that is filled with adjectives and characteristics of the human parts, reveal characteristics of the siblings. Magarrell employs description and imagery to give the reader the idea that the sister has a big bad mouth and the brother, an unfeeling heart. The author uses, "..my brother's heart, which is firm and rather dry,"(Magarrell,handout). The foods which the author includes to suggest using in cooking the parts are related to some of the same attributes as her siblings. For example, an "apple-onion stuffing,"(Magarrell,handout). The combination of apple and onion is uncommon and interesting, as the speaker wishes the brother to be. I find it interesting that the speaker criticizes her siblings in a unappreciative way that comes off harsh without ever making any negative connotation towards herself. Something must have went wrong to have the speaker so bitter towards her brother and sister, enough to talk of preparing and cooking them.

Blog 4-Edward

    I found the repetition the anonymous author used in Edward significant in the author's purpose of expressing the emotion in Edward and Mother's conversation.In each stanza, "Edward,Edward" and "Mother,Mother" repeats, as does "O." These words evoke pathos of resentment for Edward's cruelty, and pity for his mother who shows general concern for Edward, only in the end to be cursed by him. Mother pleas with interest: " 'My dear son, now tell me,' "(Anonymous,979). The mother shows care for her son but he doesn't return the love. I wonder what has happened to make Edward revolt against his family, slur evil words upon his mother, wish to leave his wife and children, or slay his father?  The grotesque work is result of Edward's devious actions against his own family. Although, the work does not give much insight into Edward's motivation behind his hatred, I believe that some reasoning exists. However, Edward should not be so ungrateful towards his family, or life. The work implies that Edward has riches: " 'What will ye do with your towers and your hall,' "(Anonymous,979)? Having riches and family, why is Edward so hateful?

Blog 3-The Drunkard

 In The Drunkard, by Frank O'Connor, Father changes in his personality and values from start to finish of the story. The insight on Father and Mr. Dooley's friendship defined Father as very intellectual, like Mr. Dooley, and extremely devoted to his friend. However, after Mr. Dooley's death, even though he attended Dooley's funeral, Father changed with the new alcohol addiction. This was the first instance in the story where I can see Father's life spiraling downward. I'm not too sure if the trauma of losing his one friend that he could have good intellectual conversation with set him off into a depressed mood, and thus, he turned to drinking, or if Mr. Dooley's death is unrelated to his alcoholism. I am sure that Father becomes less responsible with his job and family duties, and more concerned with routine trips to the bar. Even after the incident at the bar with the narrator drinking all his father's beer and that being the talk of the town, suddenly, Father changes yet again. At the bar, once his son gets sick, "Father jumped back in holy terror that I might spoil his good suit, and hastily opened the back door,"(O'Connor,348). Here, Father seems more preoccupied with his suit staying cleaned than about his son getting sick from underage alcohol over consumption. What confuses me then is Father's sudden compassion for his son when they return home. "...Father undressed me and put me to bed...Father came in with a wet cloth and mopped up after me,"(O'Connor,350). By Father's always changing personality, from an absent father, to a caring one, Father is best described as dynamic.

Blog 2-Once Upon A Time

    The most notable rhetorical device/strategy that I noticed in the short story, Once Upon A Time, by Nadine Gordimer, was the author's use of foreshadowing. The plaque, "YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED,"(Gordimer,233), which the family kept hanging on the house to keep out intruders, has some significance in the end of the story. The phrase, should not only have been advice for strangers, burglars, and passersby, but also the family themselves. The tragedy which befalls the couple's son is ironic at the same time which the event is foreshadowed. By making such an effort to continue to safe guard their house, and by eventually moving into a home which was more like a prison or dungeon, they brought it upon themselves that such misfortune should happen. A concentration camp style house is no place to raise a curious and playful child who might wind up hurting himself in a house that has dangers. By trying to provide protection, the family just got their son hurt because he got stuck in the coiled tunnel of the house. The family should have paid heed to their own sign to be cautious and raise their child in the best environment possible. The family had been warned. Had they taken the phrase to heart themselves, the son wouldn't have landed into such harm. Finally, the family that had such perfect lives shouldn't have searched for a house that they thought was potentially more safe because they just gave up their happy home and life just to have tragedy occur in a more pitiful home.

Blog 1: A Worn Path

    In the short story, A Worn Path, by Eudora Welty,many symbols were embedded into the text. One of the symbols that I noticed was the hunter's gun. Upon meeting him in the woods, Phoenix notices his gun and in a joking manner, he even points it at her. " 'Doesn't the gun scare you?' he said, still pointing it,"(Welty,227). The hunter feels that with the gun in hand, he is inferior over Phoenix and tries to make her nervous. I found this aggravating because more or less the whole incident showed how a white man feels in power over black women. Perhaps, because of this racial inferiority he feels, I believe the gun has part to do with it. The hunter's gun makes him feel in charge and powerful, however, Phoenix doesn't get uneasy at all, even though he expects her to, being an old black woman and all.
    Phoenix also relates herself and her race to the hunter's "big black dog." When she says " 'He ain't scared of nobody. He a big black dog,"(Welty,227) she is basically saying that she is not scared of anybody. Phoenix expresses her bravery and equality in not faltering in the face of danger, or white men.

Blog 4- A Raisin In The Sun

    In Act II Scene II of A Raisin In The Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, irony occurs between Johnson and Mama. After using the word, "niggers," which Mama strongly forbids in her household, Johnson apologizes because she knows Mama doesn't allow it. Mama's reply of, " 'No--I don't 'low it,' "(Hansberry,496), is followed by Johnson's response, " 'Me neither, ' "(Hansberry,496), is ironic. Johnson uses the word, apologizes because Mama finds it distasteful and forbidden, and then Johnson agrees. Johnson pretends to not approve of the word either just to heighten her saintlihood. In addition Johnson offers many left-handed compliments. For example, " '.. she act like ain't got time to pass the time of day with nobody ain't been to college. Oh--I ain't criticizing her none. It's just--you know how some of our young people gets when they get a little education,' "(Hansberry,497). Johnson says she isn't criticizing Bennie, then turns around and criticizes her. The irony and left handed compliments serve to indicate Johnson's characteristics of being a snooty, jealous, and snitchy neighbor who likes to involve herself in other's lives and problems. I can understand now why Walter and Bennie want so much to escape the society they live in, people won't let others get smarter and further themselves. If they do, others get jealous and criticize that education has any bit a role in attitude.

Blog 5- A Raisin In The Sun

    Act II Scene III of A Raisin In The Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, centers around the climax of the play: when Willy runs off with Walter's investment. Although, this tragedy shouldn't be such a shock to Walter, given his wife's disapproval and warning about Willy. Ruth calls Willy Harris a " 'good-for-nothing loudmouth,' "(Hansberry,442). Had Walter heeded his wife's advice, he wouldn't be frantically begging for Willy to, " 'Don't do it.. not with that money,' " Hansberry,517). The event was foreshadowed early on in Ruth's caution toward Willy, so no shock or unlikelihood in Willy's decisive robbery. However, from such a catastrophe, good resulted in spite of the terrible loss. For example, Walter, who I felt was incapable of being saved from his downward selfish spiral, actually denied Lindner's offer of money to not move. By not taking this cash, Walter transformed into a individual conscious of his race and keeping pride in it, no matter how much material goods were offered to deny himself. In this way, I would consider Walter a dynamic character. His values, beliefs, and characteristics change more positively as a result of lessons and knowledge gained through personal tragedy.

Blog 3- A Raisin In The Sun

    In Act II Scene I of A Raisin In The Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, setting continues to play a major role in the attitudes of Beneatha and Walter. Taking place in the 1950's in southside Chicago, there is still a racial gap between whites and blacks. Also, stereotypical views on what is considered a "white or black man's job" rank people to different levels of respect and income. Beneatha and Walter are aggravated by the separation and lack of equal opportunities among all races, which makes it difficult to attain their dreams which are unheard of for people of their race. Unfortunate how Beneatha and Walter were born into the wrong era and generation. Today, there would be nothing uncommon about a black female doctors or black office executives. However, given this time in history, both characters seek out a life for themselves which they must strive to pursue due to the lack of respect that might arise from their ambitions. In Act II Scene I, " 'We all tied up in a race of people,' "(Hansberry,485). Walter says this, and this reveals his frustration and association with a society in which he tries to differentiate himself from. The society keeps him from the chance of prospering financially and from Bennie prospering intellectually.

Blog 2- A Raisin In The Sun

    In response to the question about a character who feels trapped in the play: A Raisin in The Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, I sensed characters feeling consumed by money out of their desperate need for it considering their impoverishment.  Money seems to be the biggest factor and item on Walter's mind. He has been anxiously anticipating the arrival of Mama's check to help him set off his liquor business, which he hopes to pursue. Although Walter is trapped in his financial concerns, Ruth, as a mother, is most troubled and trapped in my opinion. Walter even notices this and comments, " 'You tired, ain't you? Tired of everything. Me, the boy, the way we love--this beat-up hole-everything...so tired-moaning and groaning all the time,' "(Hansberry,442). This seems kind of self-contradicting to Walter himself because he is the one showing his frustration with his job, the check, and the society he lives in. In Ruth's defense, I can understand her feeling trapped. I find her to be the mediator between Walter and Bennie, always breaking up their childish fighting, helping make extra money, caring for Travis, and putting up with Walter's huge ambitions with no solid foundation but his mother's check.

Blog 1-A Raisin In The Sun

    In the play A Raisin in the Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, the characters can be divided into those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened. Although, only a few scenes into the first act, characters have been distinguished into these certain categories, while some of the other groups I have not been able to associate a character(s) with. For example, Mama has had her share of disappointments and hopes never fulfilled. She even goes on to talk about what could have been: the house in Morgan Park and the garden. " '...all the dreams I had about buying that house and fixing it up and making me a little garden in the back-didn't none of it happen,' "(Hansberry,452). This idea of dreams being shoved to the side, and thus, never being fulfilled is much like Dreams Deferred by Langston Hughes. Just as Hughes states at the end of his poem, these types of aspirations put off are likely to destruct and go away. In the same way, Mama killed her dreams by never chasing them.
    On another note, a character who makes things happen is thus far, most obviously, Beneatha. Bennie longs to be a doctor, which at the time is uncommon for women of color, and she is not enthusiastically supported by her brother. Having strong spirit, however, she doesn't hear other's doubts as a means to reconsider her goals. Rather, she keeps on her path of education with the goal of becoming a doctor which shows her strong will and determination. She even says, " 'I am going to be a doctor and everybody around here better understand that,' "(Hansberry,456)! Hansberry's use of characterization reveal Bennie's personality traits which are also similar to her brother's persistence.

Blog 5- Hazel Tells Laverne & Literary Techniques

   In the poem, Hazel Tells Laverne, by Katharyn Howd Machan, the author uses vernacular, no punctuation, and allusions to convey the meaning of the work in it's entirety. For example, the use of vernacular, "..but sohelpmegod he starts talkin,"(Machan) helps the reader understand the narrator to be an uneducated lower class woman. By knowing this, it is easier to understand her confusion and doubt that she'd ever become a princess as the frog has stated she would. The author uses repetition in this phrase, "..me, a princess,"(Machan) to show the unrealistic nature of princesses and fairytales ever happening in real life. This also ties into the author's use of allusions, like her allusions to the Frog Prince. Overall, I believe the poem to be making fun of such stories which center around fairytales and fiction. After all, how many people have happenings like those in fairytales happen to them in real life? I believe that is what the author is getting at. Fairytales dont' just happen to average people, like the narrator in the story.

Blog 4- Mr. Z & Literary Techniques

  The poem, Mr. Z, by M. Carl Holman, uses irony to describe the character of Mr. Z, the racism that exists in the poem, and the meaning of the work. It is implied that Mr. Z is a black man who denies his race because he is ashamed of his skin color and his ethnic group, which he tries his whole life to separate himself from. He was said to "seize whatever ground was Anglo-Saxonized,"(Holman). This shows irony in that he doesn't want to be judged as a lesser, but by turning to people of different skin color and race than he, denied his own race and pretty much judged himself as lower. More irony can be seen in the conclusion of the poem. His whole life spent struggling to keep away from people and "places where they (his bride) might be barred," (Holman) turns out to be a waste considering after his death he is distinguished as part of the race which he tried to ignore. I believe the lesson of this poem to be that one can't escape who one is or where one comes from. One cannot go on living who they are not, and expect to not be found out. Mr. Z, although coming from a race which has been largely discriminated against, discriminated his own people by separating himself from them.

Blog 3-Dream Deferred & Literary Techniques

    I've had those dreams where I wake up and wish I could fall back asleep and dream such good things over. Or the ones I subconsciously have, and don't recall having by the time I awake. Or the ones that are so horrible, I awake hoping it never happens. But what is a dream deferred as referred to by author Langston Hughes in his poem, Dream Deferred?
    After reading this poem, I decided that the dreams Hughes describes are the ones in which all people can relate to having at one point or another. The use of similes explain different types of dreams, such as an awful one, "Does it stink like rotten meat,"(Hughes)? Or "crust and sugar over like a syrupy sweet,"(Hughes)? This implying the ones that one holds onto after awakening, because they are dreams which one enjoyed. The similes, which all are linked to foods, are dreams which are easy for the reader to understand because they do tangible actions, such as run, or sag. However, the conclusion of this poem signifies dreams that defer, meaning they get pushed aside or procrastinated upon. Thus, as Hughes says, they "explode." Some dreams, or lifelong goals are ignored for the idea that they may be too far-fetched or unattainable, these dreams go away because we put them away. I think Hughes begs us to ask ourselves what we do with our dreams and whether or not we chase them.

Blog 2- Interpreter of Maladies & Literary Techniques

    Upon reading the short story, Interpreter of Maladies, by Jhumpa Lahiri, the theme of the novel was revealed to me through careful consideration and literary techniques. The author uses imagery and flashbacks to give a better understanding to what the overarching idea and meaning of the work as a whole is. Mr. Kapasi, being lonely and unsatisfied with the way his life has panned out, meets Mrs. Das, who I believe to be equally lost and unhappy with her life. I came to this assumption from reading just at the beginning that "Mr. and Mrs. Das bickered about who should take Tina to the toilet," (Lahiri). This, gives the first impression that Mr. and Mrs. Das are immature parents who act inexperienced and overall, irritated with having children. Even later in the novel, my assumption that Mrs. Das is disappointed with her life is proven in her confiding to Mr. Kapasi about her lies to her husband concerning her children and their biological fathers. Mrs. Das' flashbacks to her past concerning her children's birth, her secret from Raj, and her failed friendships with college friends signify her downward spiral in life. Furthermore, the theme which is realized before this, becomes clear and has more meaning at the end of the novel when Mrs. Das comes to terms with reality and starts to accept parenthood. The theme, "In those moments Mr. Kapasi used to believe that all was right with the world, that all struggles were rewarded, that all of life's mistakes made sense in the end," (Lahiri). In the end, Mr. Kapasi watches his address float away without anyone else's notice and takes a mental picture of the Das', finally a loving family. Life's mistakes, like Mrs. Das' lies and untold secrets, in the end come out alright.

Blog 1- Everyday Use & Literary Techniques

    In the short story, Everyday Use, by Alice Walker, many literary techniques are embedded within the story to assert the theme and meaning of the work. The narrator, for example, is understood to be uneducated and this assumption is further proven with a flashback which explains her lack of schooling. Additionally, techniques such as imagery help describe Dee, for example. Her character, being one that "wanted nice things,...at sixteen she had a style of her own; and knew what style was," (Walker) is understood in how she is portrayed in the novel. "Earrings gold, too, and hanging down to her shoulders. Bracelets dangling and making noises when she moves," (Walker). Dee's pride in her appearance and in expensive fashion makes her stand apart from her seemingly country and old-fashioned styled family. The book suggests that Dee wanted to rid herself of her family's outdated lifestyle and bring in new ideas from present society. "She washed us in a river of make-believe, burned us with a lot of knowledge we didn't necessarily need to know," (Walker). The idea of Dee's modern ways in contrast to her family trying to keep her rooted in old tradition is seen through the end of the novel but in a way contradicted. Dee actually asks to have her mother's antique quilts, a strange gesture considering their a special piece of uniqueness to the family heritage. Why would Dee want something to belong to herself which is connected to the past she denies?

Perrine Poetry Blog

    Upon reviewing Perrine's The Nature of Proof in the Interpretation of Poetry, I reflected upon his assertion that "there are no correct or incorrect readings,"(Perrine) when regarding the interpretation of poetry. Different people have different thoughts on various poetic works, which doesn't mean that their interpretation is correct, but also doesn't mean that it is wrong or too far fetched either. I agree with this. There can be various meanings behind an author's work, and although only one is correct, others might come in the same realm of being close. At times when I have been given a piece of poetry to analyze, I have been clearly off scale in closeness to what the author meant to convey. At other times, I have come up with ideas that make sense in the sense the author wished to portray. What really struck me as interesting in this article was how we will always have to keep guessing on what a poem is supposed to be about. The reasoning for this being that, "No poet, however, likes to be caught in the predicament of having to explain his own poems,"(Perrine).  The article explained my confusion for this statement by justifying that the author, by explaining his poems, would never measure up to the description of the poem itself. Thus, one's questioning and wonderment concerning the poem's topic will always be up for discussion and debate.
    Additionally, a few poems were used as example for poems interpreted wrongly. In this case, sometimes, the most clear message is too thought out creating an elaborate explanation. When breaking down the poem into parts and looking carefully, the meaning of the poem can be much easier to determine. I too agree with this and can relate. I have, when confused with analyzing a poem, looked too closely and come up with an idea that is much more complicated than intended by the author to be. I believe this is where the idea of a "determinable meaning,"(Perrine) comes into place. There is a time when the poem has a deeper more philosophical meaning, and a time when the meaning should be viewed loosely because of it's bluntness. All in all, throughout this article I have agreed with most of Perrine's thoughts and have reflected on many that I have never thought of before.

Blog 15: My overall opinion of the ENTIRE novel

    The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a story of old, lost and unfulfilled love, and also of money and status in the roaring 1920's, was an enjoyable classic read. Although, agitated at most times of the book, because of characters and their actions, lessons, which can still apply present day, were noticed. Just like Lily Bart in The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, the greedy desire for money presents itself as the only means to ultimate happiness. Still today, people seem to have the idea that money makes the world go 'round. Though, I don't side with this idea, I do back up the lessons of valuing every blessing one has, realizing that lost love may never be regained, and happiness is a choice. I believe the novel also encourages dreaming overboard and to the extent, thinking like a child, being unrealistic, and just seeing what happens. "...his dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it. He did not know that it was already behind him, somewhere back in that vast obscurity beyond the city," (Fitzgerald,180).. Gatsby doesn't feel as if anything is too far from his reach, or at least he will never come to terms with accepting that some things fly by. Overall, I envy Gatsby's playful naivety and ignorance, and enjoyed the many highlights of this novel.

Blog 14: Analysis of Nick Carraway

    As The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald draws to an end, I believe Fitzgerald uses pathos to reach out to the reader's emotions. Nearing the final moments of this novel, there is more focus on the narrator of Nick Carraway. For the gist of this novel, Mr. Carraway has been overshadowed by the other characters. After following the complicated relationship of Daisy and Gatsby, with Tom interfering all the while, there is suddenly a look into Nick's inward feelings and his relationship with Jordan Baker. Although, the relationship comes to a depressing halt when Nick himself stops it, I enjoyed the character of Nick and the brief look readers got to see of him. "Angry, and half in love with her, and tremendously sorry, I turned away," (Fitzgerald,177). Even though I wish the relationship could have worked, I admire Nick's courage in setting free the woman he loved. I believe Nick's ability to walk away from her to be the most heroic actions in the book. Nick deserves more respect from the other characters and more emphasis by the author. However, the lack of spotlight on him makes him that much more difficult to decipher.

Blog 13: Comparison to another work

    In chapter nine of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nick informs Wolfsheim of Gatsby's death and the arrangements of his funeral. However, surprisingly, even taken into consideration Wolfsheim and Gatsby's friendship, Wolfsheim refuses to come to bid his friend a final goodbye. At this, I am angered that he wouldn't be at Gatsby's side, even now at the end. Wolfsheim's reasoning is to not get mixed into a dead man's affairs. Although, I cannot fathom his reasoning and completely disagree with this logic, Wolfsheim did offer an insightful point worth pondering. " 'Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead,' " (Fitzgerald,172).. This reminded me of a line from the song Big Yellow Taxi. It goes, "You don't know what you've got 'till its gone." Not enough appreciation is given to blessings we have now, and sadly, we don't see how well we have something until that something is gone. On the same note, If I Die Young by The Band Perry has the lyric: "Funny, when you're dead how people start listening." All in all, nothing is forever.

Blog 12: Holocaust Illusion

    In the last couple chapters of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the author describes the climax of the novel. This, being the argument over Daisy's love, held between Gatsby, Tom, and Daisy, adds to the heightened suspense of who Daisy is to choose. It wasn't until nearing the end of chapter 8 that the falling action is revealed as Gatsby's death by Wilson. Upon which, after, Wilson kills himself too. After this, Fitzgerald describes the series of events to a holocaust. Although, the most famous holocaust that we associate to the term, being the execution of many Jews during the second world war, had not occurred yet, he gives the word new meaning. "...the holocaust was complete," (Fitzgerald,162). As history goes on, society will begin to shape an even stronger meaning and connection to this term, as mentioned. Overall though, Fitzgerald is meaning to convey the intensity of such events and the utter horror the place on Nick. Certainly, this makes for a surprise and unfortunate twist to what I thought was going to be a more predictable read.

Blog 11: A look into Daisy Buchanan's character

    Daisy Buchanan's character in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is further developed in chapter seven. While driving home, Gatsby and Daisy hit Myrtle Wilson, who ran out in front of the car. The car wavered and then barreled on down the road without hesitation. Myrtle, once lover of Tom Buchanan, when he went behind Daisy's back, died after the incident. This whole tragedy made me question Gatsby's character, because, I was under the impression that he was a man devoted to the charity of others. He was always opening his door to strangers and sending replacement dresses to women who tore theirs at his parties. It seems out of the ordinary for Mr. Jay Gatsby to be running away from a crime scene, which he himself is the doer. Then, in this chapter, upon Nick's questioning about it, Gatsby admits it was Daisy who was driving. Although, this does not make the action any less terrible, I feel Daisy would be more likely to have done such a thing. ' "...she was nervous and she thought it would steady her to drive--and this woman rushed out just as we were passing a car coming the other way,' " (Fitzgerald,143). I am angered at Daisy, who, I feel resembles so much a child. I wish she could see what she has done and feel affected by that, but instead I feel Daisy has such a relaxed attitude to realize the depth of her mistakes. After the accident, she goes back home and eats dinner, not frantic, as I would suspect most people to be. And upon sitting at the table with Tom, "they weren't happy,...and yet they weren't unhappy either," (Fitzgerald,145). I feel Daisy doesn't want to face what is at hand, and, like a child, believes after a night's sleep, it will all be gone. Maybe this is because Daisy has always gotten out of every predicament by never being assumed as being the cause of fault. Even her own husband believes Gatsby to be the who drove that car.

Blog 10: Daisy's values

    In chapter seven of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the reoccurring theme of social rank and wealth, which often presents itself in nineteenth century life, comes up yet again in this novel. Just like the characters in The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton were obsessed with money, which ultimately determined who they hung around, what they did, and where they went, Daisy Buchanan in this novel, readers find out, prefers wealth also. Not to say it is bad to like more expensive things, but the idea that money makes the world go 'round, for example, is absurd. It wasn't until this point in the novel that I notice Daisy's interest in riches. " 'Her voice is full of money,' " (Fitzgerald,120). Daisy seems to plea for things that only cost money and this shows off a more greedy side of her. Then, just pages later in this chapter, Gatsby outbursts at Tom after an argument between the whole clan of Gatsby, Tom, and Daisy, while among Nick's presence. " 'She only married you because I was poor and she was tired of waiting for me. It was a terrible mistake but in her heart she never loved any one except me,' " (Fitzgerald,130)! This offers a new idea to think about. Daisy asserts that she did love Gatsby at a point, but so she loved Tom too, and that is why she married him. However, I still wonder if she was bothered so much by Gatsby's poverty at the time of their love. Daisy is a complex character, mixed up in her emotions, and caught between two men, who, I believe, she'll never be able to choose.

Bog 9: My current view of Gatsby

    Mr. Jay Gatsby in chapter six of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, comes off as impractical, dreamy, hopeful, and connected still to his past. Gatsby's idealistic nature, I believe, will be his pitfall. Even though, I would like to see Gatsby and Daisy back together, the separate lives they lead might keep that from happening. However, I believe Gatsby is too sure of himself to give up on Daisy because all he can think of is past memories of old love. He even expects Daisy to, "go to Tom and say: 'I never loved you,' (Fitzgerald,109). Although, we know that Daisy did love Gatsby, even at the time of her marriage to Tom, it is also possible that she holds a certain love for Tom too, making it impossible to be with Jay solely. However, it is hard to tell who Daisy will end up with considering her changing moods, Tom's strict hold over her, and Gatsby unrelenting quest to make Daisy his. As of this point in the novel, Gatsby believes he can repeat the past and " '...fix everything just the way it was before,' " (Fitzgerald,110).. It seems Gatsby will stop at nothing to get what he wants. And in this case, its Daisy.

Blog 8- Reflection of a quote

    In chapter 5 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gatsby, Daisy, and Nick are all assembled in Gatsby's music room listening to Mr. Klipspringer play the piano. As the night carries on, I was excited to see Gatsby and Daisy slowly warm back up to each other and share in an evening they've been waiting for for over five years. There was a quote which I think describes perfectly the wind of change that I feel is blowing through Gatsby and Daisy's life as they bring each other back into focus. "It was the hour of a profound human change, and exitement was generating in the air," (Fitzgerald,95). Slowly, Gasby and Daisy are letting one another back into their lives and they are anxiousness of what is to come. However, as with any realtionship, when such time has passed, and there has been time to build up expectations, disappointment can arise if they are not met. I'm not saying Gatsby was at all disappointed with the way Daisy has grown up, but after five years, one does not know what to expect. "There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of hs dreams--not through her own fault, but because of then collosal vitality of his illusions...No amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man will store up in his ghostly heart," (Fitzgerald,95-96). Sometimes, one envisions someone in the mind and makes them perfection and everything one wants, but not always in touch with reality. This is a set up for disappointment when one isn't completely the desired and dreamt up one. Daisy Fay is still loved by Gatsby but there is a twinkle of doubt, as Nick says, in his eye.

Blog 7: Foreshadowing

    In chapter 4 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, readers get a brief look into Jordan Baker and Daisy Fay's teenage years. Not only within these next few pages is there foreshadowing, but also irony and shock. We learn of Jordan's relationship with Daisy: one where sixteen year old Jordan looks up to older beautiful Daisy, who seemingly is the coolest young woman around. Mr. Jay Gatsby is introduced as Daisy's first love. Ironic that Gatsby, who readers have been following the entire novel, and Daisy too, knew each other and actually had a relationship in their younger years. " 'His name was Jay Gatsby, and I didnt lay eyes on him again for over four years--even after I'd met him on Long Island I didn't realze it was the same man,' "(Fitzgerald,75). Thus far, it has been assumed that the two were not connected at all with each other. And Jordan Baker happens to be longtime acquaintances with Daisy, who was with Gatsby, and now Nick is told of the inter affiliation of them all. I was shocked! It really is a small world after all. So thats what Jordan Baker and Gatsby discussed at the party: Jordan's connection to Daisy, who knew Nick, who could set Gatsby and Daisy hooked up again. Nick truly is the center of it all, the middle man. This meeting foreshadows the eventual reunion of Gatsby and Daisy over tea, just as the story of their childhood and love foreshadows their future possible rekindling of that love.

Blog 6: Comparing a specific line to personal experience

    At the conclusion of chapter 3 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a line is drawn separating Nick from Jordan. This difference is that Jordan is a dishonest woman, while Nick, is a admirable and truthful man. I think this is what actually attracts the two to the other. The fact that Nick justifies Jordan's lying and loves her nonetheless, and Jordan looks to Nick to save her from her own careless ways. And, in the last sentence of the chapter, Nick points out this quality in himself. "Every one suspects himself of at least one of the cardinal virtues, and this is mine: I am one of the few honest people that I have ever known," (Fitzgerald,59). I can relate to the character of Nick and his truthfulness. Not to put myself on a pedastool or to brag of myself, but I never suspect anyone is lying to me. I will admit to screwing up at many things and to having some not so great qualities about myself that I try to work on, but lying is something I never think of doing. I guess I just have this ultimate trust in people from the get go and expect the same in return. No matter how much I know the person, I am always truthful and expect no less. This, however, has led to others taking advantage of my trust, and sometimes, I have end up disappointed and hurt. However, I was interested in this similiarity between Nick and I, and have an even deeper regard and respect for him.

Blog 5: Character Analysis

In chapter 5 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nick attends his first party at his neighbor's. Upon meeting his host, and being oblivious to this fact, the two are formally acquainted. This is the first time in the novel Gatsby is really introduced to the reader as more than just the interesting individual next door. Gatsby, who, to me, has already come across as a charming individual, furthers this assertion in my eyes by a quote which conveys him as understanding too. In regards to Gatsby's smile: " It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey," (Fitzgerald,48). I find this admirable because I don't think I myself have ever found someone with the ability to do all this by just a simple smile. Gatsby seems to be a deep and wise man, which not many people can see into and understand the depths of his soul and knowledge. And, although, many accusations have been spread that he killed a man, I am too fascinated with his character to be turned away be any of them. Aside from this point, I would guess him to be a colored man. My reasoning for this assumption is that I think the book depicts him as a man of success at a time when little  respect is given to minorities and other races. If my assumption is correct, I'm happy to see the book proves people of all races and ethnicities are capable of the same successes.

Blog 4: Imagery

    In opening chapter 3 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the description of Gatsby's home creates the sort of imagery which drew many pictures in my mind and had a sort of importance to me. "In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars," (Fitzgerald,39). Not only using special imagery, but similes as well, Fitzgerald creates an understanding of Gatsby without defining and bringing him up specifically. I find this to be especially important because I am drawn to believe Gatsby to be a well liked man, who throws extravagant parties, and entertains in elaborate ways, attracting flocks of various people. Additionally, the descriptive words selected by the author helps to also convey the beauty and free nature that summer brings. Literary techniques such as these help me to become more engrossed in the novel, feeling I can relate to and envision what Fitzgerald describes. I can see the happiness the parties bring, and the sadness when the party is over. "And on Mondays eight servants, including an extra gardener, toiled all day with mops and scrubbing-brushes and hammers and garden-shears,repairing the ravages of the night before," (Fitzgerald,39). This, to me, symbolized that all good things must come to an end. However, I feel the mentioning of Gatsby's parties will have significance in the novel and maybe affect Nick, a bystander for now.

Blog 3: Comparison to modern society

    In chapter 2 of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a common theme of unfaithfulness and treachery presents itself. Tom Buchanan goes behind his wife Daisy's back for Myrtle Wilson, who, in turn, betrays her husband. The reasoning, " 'Neither of them can stand the person they're married to,' " (Fitzgerald,33). Within the next few pages, and after Catherine's suggestion that the two divorce their spouses and marry each other, Myrtle's motives for marrying her husband in the first place are discussed. " 'I married him because I thought he was a gentleman,...I thought he knew something about breeding, but he wasn't fit to lick my shoe,' "(Fitzgerald,34). This precisely shows how selfish desires overtake love as the root of most marriages. That is why today, we still hear of failed marriages and those that have gone wrong. In this novel, even Lucille McKee almost married for the wrong reasons. Aggravating that, the entire room of people, with the exception of Nick, can all unite under the commonality that they've all thrown away the meaning of true love and marriage. So disgusting, that I don't blame Nick Carraway for trying to escape the party. Overall, I find too strong a connection between modern day's sloppy take on marriage and early nineteenth century's carelessness with it too.

Blog 2:Comparison to another work

    In chapter one of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, readers are given some insight into the relationship of Nick and his father. A quote, which Nick recalls his father saying especially stuck out to me. " 'Whenever you feel like criticizing any one,' he told me, 'just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had,' " (Fitzgerald,1). I thought this similar to the saying, "There is always someone who has it worse than you." Nick, blessed with a good upbringing and all his basic needs met, can feel satisfied knowing he has more than enough. I find this an important thing to remember myself, having been given these same blessings myself. Then in the next statement, "He didn't say any more but we've always been communicative in a reserved way," (Fitzgerald,1).. Though, I cannot fully understand this type of relationship, a song I've heard quite similarly relates to it. Reba McIntire's song, The Greatest Man I Never Knew, explains a relationship where unspoken words are loudly heard. The line, "He never said he loved me, guess he thought I knew," depicts the idea that actions speak louder than words, and sometimes the loudest words are heard amidst utter silence.

Blog 1: Character Analysis

    Upon my first glimpse at the character of Daisy Buchanan in the novel, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, I have keyed slightly into her personality. Daisy's flamboyant and bright attitude first first stuck out to me as she is introduced into the novel. She has a way of making others feel particularly important. To show, "...promising that there was no one she so much wanted to see. That was a way she had,"(Fitzgerald,9). By this point, I was drawn to Daisy's charming nature and carefree soul which continued to show through as the chapter progressed."...her voice glowing and singing,"(Fitzgerald,14). This attribute, I find admirable but peculiar because she knows her husband is cheating on her. The fact that she can withstand such composure despite this, is certainly plausible. Aside from this, and luckily, on a lighter note, Daisy's sporadic personality makes for easier, yet unpredictable reading. One moment, talking about long days, and next, civilizations. Though, only a chapter into this book, I already have connected with the character of Daisy. Overall, I believe she is a character to envy, and I myself wish I could emulate her same constant giddiness.

Blog 15- My overall opinion of the ENTIRE novel

The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, in my opinion, was a tough read. Perhaps, the barrier which kept me from thoroughly enjoying the novel was my inability to fully relate to any of the characters. Because of the importance of rank and wealth being focal points of twentieth century society, I find these things evident but not extremely important in my current life. Taking into account my young age, maybe the emphasis on wealth made by the novel will be easier to understand as I get older and money and income have a greater role in my life. Additionally, oftentimes, in the novel I became frustrated with the idea that most all the characters were trying to please others rather than themselves. As hard as it may be, I try to live for myself and not to please or impress others. I found that many people in the story, for example, Lily Bart, were obsessed with the idea of being rich like seemingly all the others. " 'Did you ever see such jewels? Do look at Mrs. George Dorset's pearls,' " (Wharton,107-108).. Lily I feel wastes her time comparing herself to others instead of bettering herself. Despite the negatives I found in the book, I did take away some valuable lessons. To name a few, realizing some things are not meant to be, people will accept money and deny they have a soul, and love waited out is a love potentially lost. Overall, I didn't love this book but I didn't hate it either.

Blog 14- Detailed response to a specific line and comparison to another work:quotes

In the final chapter of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, the novel comes to a close with exciting events and truths unraveling. I believe this to be the part of the novel where Selden's love for Miss Lily Bart is publicly expressed and understood. He understands the situations which made loving her so difficult and comes to terms with the fact that they never could truly be each other's. A quote mentioned in the novel sparked many related quotes. "He saw that all the conditions of life had conspired to keep them apart," "But at least he had loved her," (Wharton,267-268).. I thought this to go along the same line as the phrase, "Better to have loved and lost, than to never have loved at all." The idea is that, painful as it may be, having the experience and joys that love can bring is more fulfilling than to have never shared in that experience. Selden had loved Lily Bart, and that in itself is important. The idea of life conspiring to make their love not work out reminded me of a quote from the book Criss Cross. "Hector did look at Debbie, and he saw her, really saw her for a moment. Debbie looked at Hector and she saw him, really saw him, for a moment. If it had been the same moment something might have happened. But their moments were separated by about a second. Their paths crossed, but they missed each other." Sometimes, what can be is not destined to be. Just as Debbie and Hector's almost love, Selden and Lily's almost love wasn't fated and therefore, they missed each other.

Blog 13- Detailed response to a specific scene and my opinion

In The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Miss Lily Bart makes the unwise decision to overdose on chloral, thus, ending her life. I noticed prior some signs of her downward spiral. Though, Lily's death doesn't take place until the final pages of the book, earlier her lonliness and worrries consumed her every thought. "...she discovered and increasing sense of lonliness, " (Wharton,238).. Miss Lily Bart's lonliness is a reoccuring pattern which, to her, only chloral can subdue. "The thought of the chloral was the only spot of light in the dark prospect: she could feel its lulling influence stealing over her already," (Wharton,253). This feeling of Miss Bart's foreshadows the medication permanetly stealing over her, which is her death. Lily Bart always came across to me as a weak character but her death, brought on by herself, was unexpected even given the possible signs of suicidal thinking. Although, Lily never thought the increased dosage would hurt her, I believe the taking of her life to be unevitable. Lily seemed to be heading towards the direction of dreading her existence.

Blog 12- Discussion of the role played by a minor character

As Miss Lily Bart in The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton escalades into deep depression and loneliness, caused by poverty and sleepless nights, she finds hope in Nettie Struther. I believe Nettie, being such a minor character in the story, and not having been introduced until chapter 13, was placed with much purpose. Ironic and hopeful I find it that, just as Miss Bart was in her lowest state, Mrs. Struther symbolizes strength in adversity, rising above her hardships. To show, "But Nettie Struther's frail envelope was now alive with hope and energy:whatever fate the future reserved for her, she would not be cast into the refuse-heap without a struggle," (Wharton,254). Nettie's role is to pose as the strength in which Lily cannot find in herself. Mrs. Struther's entrance into the novel couldn't have been timed more perfectly. I believe Nettie's admiration for Lily shows her there are still people who believe in her. Nettie coaxes Miss Bart to be happier with herself. Nettie even says about her child, " 'Wouldn't it be too lovely for anything if she could grow up to be just like you,' " (Wharton,257)? Its funny and relieving that there is someone who thinks the world of Miss Bart. Lily has been saddened lately by her apparently burdensome ways and hopefully is relieved to know not everyone has closed their door on her.

Blog 11- Analysis of Gerty Farish and Lawrence Selden's relationship

Selden and Miss Gerty Farish's cousinly relationship has been overshadowed by the dramas of Miss Lily Bart in The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton. However, I noticed, signs of Gerty's love for Selden since she felt betrayed by Miss Bart's growing affection for him, and him for Miss Bart. Thus, I pity Gerty Farish and have since the beginning of the novel. For one, Miss Bart talks about being lonely, but I feel Gerty lies in the most solitude having no relationships but with those at her club. Gerty does have Lawrence Selden to talk to though, and in chapter 8, the two discuss Miss Lily Bart. Gerty, hiding secret affection for Selden, keeps it very low key by helping Lily and him sort out their problems and drawing them closer together. Miss Farish knows by doing so, she is pushing Selden farther from her reach and into the arms of someone else. Gerty's sacrifice is ultimate and shocking. Furthermore, I pity the fact that Gerty will probably never hear an apology or thanks for her goodwill and advice, considering both Lily and Selden remain clueless to Gerty's inward feelings. At least, Gerty Farish can hold onto the one moment of intimacy which she and Lawrence shared. "He laid his hand for a moment on hers, and there passed between them, on the current of the rare contact, one of those exchanges of meaning which fill the hidden reservoirs of affection,"(Wharton,219). This moment Miss Lily Bart cannot take away from Miss Gerty Farish.

Blog 10- Opinion of the work with related quote

Upon reading chapter 7 book II of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, I applauded Lily Bart for her willingness to commit to a relationship and accept and share her feelings with Sim Rosedale. Prior, Lily, to me, came across as a reckless and prideful woman, adorned for her beauty and sought after for her affection. However, she seemed too picky to settle for whoever comes her way. " 'And I am ready to marry you whenever you wish,' "(Wharton,205). This shows Lily's transition into a more confident and sure individual when making decisions. Lily proves she is finally ready to make the step towards a binding union with Rosedale and accept his longtime love for her. Unfortunately by the time Lily is ready to fess up her feelings, Rosedale doesn't agree to matrimony due to Lily's current social image. I believe Mr. Rosedale's denial to Lily's request to be a wake up call that the world is not always on her clock. Miss Lily Bart for the first time doesn't get what she wants. Lily must learn that, like Pubilius Syrus said, "A good reputation is more valuable than money." Ms. Bart was narrowly focused on acquiring a sum and did thus by gambling and borrowing, thus, ruining her reputation. Sim Rosedale does not seem to want to carry the weight of Lily's mistakes on his shoulders by being engaged to her. Good luck to Miss Lily Bart on finding someone who won't judge her past wrongdoings.

Blog 9-Comparison to another work: film

In chapter 4 book II of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Lily receives the bad end of the straw for her aunt's will. Feeling forgotten and unappreciated, Miss Lily Bart turns to the only one who won't turn away from her, Miss Gerty Farish. "...She found herself utterly alone except for Gerty Farsh,"(Wharton,183). Ironic that the one person who still accepts Lily Bart into her home and serves her every need, is the one who Lily unknowingly hurt by her betrayal with Selden. In my opinion, Gerty has been hurt the most throughout the story, being put on the backdrop of all things and watching her lover (Selden) fall in love with her best friend (Lily). Overall, Lily Bart and Miss Gerty Farish's friendship has stuck out to me most in the novel. While Lily's "friends" have been ones only at times for personal gain, Gerty has expected nothing in return for her hospitality. A friends betrayal reminded me of many other movies such as Goodfellas. This movie centers around a man, Henry Hill, who turns over evidence against his friend for his advantage of getting out of jail. I believe this scenario of a friend's betrayal, such as the one in the novel, can be related to many similar situations.

Bog 8-Analysis of the effect of setting

At the close of Book I of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Lily reads in the newspaper of Lawrence Selden's voyage to Havana and the West Indies. Lily, heart wrenched and depressed knowing he won't return, is relieved to find an invitation to accompany the Dorsets in the Mediterranean. The setting of Book II on the Riviera is significant in the fact that the outcome of Selden and Lily's reunion is anything but predictable. Having taken into account their growing feelings for the other, I would have thought the reunification of both to be heartfelt and grand. This happens to be quite opposite from the case. I believe Wharton's choice for this transition to a far away setting to symbolize Selden's running away from his past home life and roller coaster relationship with Lily Bart."...if she could be entirely excluded from his life, the pressure of new and varied impressions, with which no thought of her was connected, would soon complete the work of separation,"(Wharton,153). I find it ironic that Selden's running away from Lily and his past ways is halted by Lily's running toward him. The actual encounter of the two at the train platform to me symbolized both Lily Bart and Lawrence Selden starting at the same point, but the train taking them too two different destinations. Or, the train can show the two traveling away from one another, wherever that may be.

Blog 7- Detailed response to a specific line

In Edith Wharton's The House Of Mirth, a line regarding Lily Bart stuck out to me. "She was realising for the first time that a woman's dignity may cost more to keep up than her carriage," (Wharton,138)... This, I believe to be the first time Lily Bart is aware of the greater worth and hardship of a positive view of oneself with respect and dignity for oneself. It is harder to keep one's head up and remain confident in the inside, than to keep up the view of oneself that revolves around material items and how one looks from the outside. Previously, I had been upset with Miss Lily Bart's character values because they differed largely from what is right. Now, I feel Lily pays heed to the mess of a debt to Gus Trenor in which she got herself involved. I believe Miss Bart wants to wash her hands of the matter and start from a clean slate. If this is true, I find that choice to be very admirable. I think that Lily continues on the path to bettering herself. No matter what kind of values and conditions she was raised under, Lily is already starting to defy previous assumptions about her.

Blog 6-Detailed response to a specific scene/my opinion of the work

Readers key into Lily Bart's emotions in chapter 13 of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton. Previously, Lily Bart has been portrayed as an over dramatic woman who gets in troublesome situations and always contradicts herself. Thus far, I've been slightly irritated with the character of Lily Bart. I find her difficult to relate to and her lack of appreciation frustrating. However, I gained some sympathy for Miss Bart after the encounter and argument with Gus Trenor during Judy's absence. After all that is discussed at this meeting, and having been overflown with truths, Lily is a stranger to herself and cannot think clearly. " 'I can't think- I can't think'... She seemed a stranger to herself, or rather there were two selves in her, the one she had always known, and a new abhorrent being to which it found itself chained," (Wharton,120). I sympathize with Lily who, in such a dark time, feels lonely and confused. I'm shocked at her strong display of feeling at this moment in the book, especially considering her usual careless to other matters of equal importance. For example, her gambling problems, debt, and fortune owed to Gus Trenor. This display of trouble, I believe is the start to Lily's more intuitive look at herself and search for someone to console her in times of despair such as these. 

Blog 5-My own opinion of the work and comparison to a film

Miss Lily Bart in chapter 7 of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, develops a manipulative relationship with Gus Trenor. Lily, overtaken with desires of wealth and riches and in the predicament of having only some nice things, goes in on a friendship with Mr. Trenor with his money as reward. From early on in the novel, Lily's characteristic qualities of greed, slyness, and self interest have escalated into a deal with Mr. Trenor with money as the motive. Gus Trenor seems willing to satisfy Miss Bart's desire for material objects as long as she can be a pretty face to hang around him. My feelings for this situation thus far is disgust for Lily's easy approach to Mr. Trenor's tremendous generosity. To prove Lily's self absorption, "strengthened her self confidence in the exact degree to which it effaced her debts," (Wharton,69). Gus likes having a sought-after and beautiful woman, just as Lily Bart enjoys the riches he is willing to present her. Seems to me both individuals need a reality check! Someones got their priorities mixed up!

The film Pretty Woman involves a similar scenario. Edward, a successful business man, hires a prostitute who he offers money to if she sticks around with him for some time. Vivian enjoys the rich and famous scene which Edward envelopes her in. Although in The House Of Mirth, Gus Trenor and Lily Bart haven't fell in love like Vivian and Edward, I find the characters and situations from both strikingly similar.

Blog 4- Lily & Selden's Early On Relationship

Towards the end of chapter 5 and into chapter 6 of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Lily Bart and Selden deepen their relationship. As the story has developed, I've noticed Miss Bart more conscious of Selden's existence and more appreciative to the fact that he's always been around for her. His following her out to the garden on the path to church show Selden's devotion to Lily and her safety. I believed Miss Bart would be too blind sighted to notice Selden's generosity or even to take him up on the offer to go on an afternoon stroll. I was lead to the assumption that Miss Bart wouldn't let her friendship with Lawrence Selden to deepen because of her earlier regard of him in chapter 5: "...wished that he possessed the other qualities needful to fix her attention;but till now she had been too busy with her own affairs to regard him as more than one of the pleasant accessories of life," (Wharton,43). . Lily's lack of appreciation to those always at her service, show through in her treatment to Selden. To my surprise though, she sits on a rock with Lawrence at her feet, thoughts rushing through her head of her growing feelings for him. "Was it love, she wondered," (Wharton,51)..? And after having spent an entire afternoon in Selden's company, " 'Do you want to marry me,' " (Wharton,58)? Is Lily Bart in love with Lawrence Selden, or in love with the idea of being in love?

Blog 3-Detailed response to a specific line

In chapter 4 of The House Of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Lily Bart mentions to her cousin and Miss Van Osburgh that, "Each of them wants a creature of a different race," (Wharton,38).. Lily in this statement is regarding Miss Van Osburgh and Percy Gryce's likeness, but the fact that one seems to seek out others different than oneself. This quote by Lily reminded me of the saying, "opposites attract." People tend to desire people who possess the qualities they lack in themselves.Additionally, people like a change of pace and the excitement of another so different from themselves. Since Mr. Gryce and Ms. Osburgh are so alike, the partnership of the two, Lily assumes, will never be.

Aside from this, in chapter 4, Lily Bart's eyes open to the fact that perhaps the world is not as cruel as she'd imagined. "They were not as brutal and self engrossed as she had fancied," (Wharton,39).. Miss Bart's epiphany which was this realization, can be compared to Mr Scrooge's revelation from a bitter old man towards others, to a generous man in A Christmas Carol. Though, Lily didn't go through any trial like Scrooge to have this change of heart, both find out the world isn't half as bad as they had originally thought.