Eng 001: Language and Writing

Alex's Soundtrack

2008-12-19T17:38:00.010-06:00

I just want to start off by saying that I went home on Wednesday afternoon, and I wrote my project and I've tried several times to get my videos to post and they will not. And I'm not sure if its my location, or the weather, but I could not get them to post. So there is a link to every video. I'm sorry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IltAsKmVroQ

The first video I have posted is one from the movie Beauty and the Beast, written by Alan Menken, this song is the introduction to the movie and is how we first meet the main character Belle. She is walking through the town, book in hand reading, while Gaston, is plotting ways to win her heart. Everyone is talking about how strange Belle is, and she has absolutely no idea because she is so absorbed in her book. When I was a little girl, I used to love to dress up and pretend I was Belle, I would carry around a blue book and a basket and make my grandfather dress pretend to be Gaston. We'd reenact a scene where Gaston takes the book from Belle in an effort to get her attention, when she kept trying to get it from him he tossed it into muddy water. The book I had was from a Reader's Digest book club that my grandmother was a member of. The cover was a light blue with a checkered style pattern, and it had many divots and chunks out of the corners from being tossed around, and beaten up. The binding had broken and the pages were literally hanging out of its cover. Inside it was the likes of Dicken's and Benchley, and many of the corners of the pages had a slight crease in them, from their times of serving as bookmarks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ov4tE7XRTUA

The second video I have posted is one that is once again from the Disney movie Beauty and the Beast, and was also written by Alan Menken. The song is called "Be our Guest", in the video, Lumiere the candlestick, Cogsworth the clock, and Mrs. Pott's the teapot, along with all the dishes in the castle, prepare a meal for Belle, all the while putting on an entertaining show for her. Mrs. Pott's prepares tea for Belle to have with dessert. When I was a little girl, I was given a authentic Disney tea set. Mrs. Pott's, her son Chip, and 3 other teacups were included. I would set them all up and visualize all the silverware dancing around me. Mrs. Pott's was a beautiful teapot. She was a creamy white color with an intricate pattern on both her lid, and bottom. The purple, pink, teal, and gold designs formed a diamond-like pattern on the bottom of her, as well as on all the cups. Her lid was a light purple, with a gold highlight that formed a crown that had a pink jewel within it, so it could be lifted from her head. Each cup had a gold rim, and Chip, likened to his name had a small chip on the left side of the rim. He was by far the cutest cup, with big bright eyes and a smile on his face.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pPUmv3U2XY

The third video I have posted is from Disney's The Little Mermaid, another song written by Alan Menken, that's called "Part of Your World". The song starts off with Ariel in her grotto with her best friend Flounder. She is an avid collector of human trinkets that have been lost at sea, and she wants to have a deeper understanding for human life. For my 4th birthday, I got an Ariel doll. She had long curly red hair, a purple seashell bra, and teal and magenta sequined and sparkly fins. On her back, she had a button that could be pressed to make her speak. She said three phrases, "Oh Flounder, you're such a guppy," "I want to be part of your world," and she sang, "Ahhhh, ahhhhahahhh." She had on purple eyeshadow, and red lipstick. Her fins could be removed to reveal legs, and a pink sequined dress that could be put on her so she could truly become human, which is when Ariel was truly at her happiest because she could be with her true love Eric. All Ariel wanted was to be a part of his world. And I was more than happy to have her as a part of mine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkV-of_eN2w

The fourth video I have posted is one from the movie Pocahontas, called "Colors of the Wind" written once again by Alan Menken, starts off with Pocahontas and John Smith, and their differences. Pocahontas thinks that John has a lot to learn about the environment in which she lives. She thinks he only sees things for what they are and never looks any deeper. Throughout the video she takes him through the land to see things through a different perspective. In one scene of the video, there is a multi-colored sky. Whenever I see this, I am instantly reminded of my Tye-dyed Pocahontas t-shirt. It was probably the most hideous thing ever created, but I absolutely loved it. It was Tye-dyed, with vibrant colors of red, blue, yellow and green, and at the bottom of the shirt was strings that had beads on them to suggest authenticity, because it looked very similar to something Native Americans would wear. I would put it on and go outside and run through my backyard and feel so free, and as I look back now, I think of how simple and care-free things were. Similar to the way Pocahontas lived before the white man took over her land.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG2QpktmYqY

The fifth video I have posted is one from the movie the Aristocat's, it's called "The Piano Lesson", was written by Georges Bizet. The video begins with the two kittens Marie and Berlioz going to the piano to practice their scales. Marie is a white kitten with a pink bow in her hair, and is desperately trying to be like her mother. She is doing the singing while Berlioz is playing the piano. He is very reluctant and just wants to play. When I hear this, I am reminded of my days of learning to play the piano, and just how reluctantly I approached playing the piano. I never wanted to sit at that giant thing for hours at a time and learn new songs. The piano in my church where I took my lessons was a huge brown Baldwin piano. It had an intricate flower-like pattern that was etched deep within the pecan wood, white and black ivory keys, and copper pedals. When each key was played, it gave off a warm, deep sound that one can feel within. Many hymns had been played on the keys, each and every morning at the people of the congregation filled the pews. The stool was also made of the pecan wood, and was very tarnished from all the people who had filled the seat before me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejEVczA8PLU

The sixth video I have posted is one from the Lion King called "Hakuna Matata" and was written by Elton John. It starts out with Simba, the lion cub, who had recently run away from his pride, meeting Timon and Pumba. They are two characters who have no worries in life and live in a paradise. There are no expectations, rules, or responsibilities where they live. And that is exactly what Simba is looking for. In the video, he is asked to try something new, and so he let's go of any inhibitions he had about it, and did it. Every time I hear that song I am reminded of the calamari I was persuaded into trying. A squid is a pale, slimy, stringy, nasty looking creature. It in no way resembled steak, pork chops, or even shrimp. Each leg was long, skinny, and stringy. It was deep fried in a crispy golden crust, and bore a striking resemblance to an onion ring at the right angle, so I let my inhibitions go, dipped it in marinara sauce, and took a bite. I was pleasantly surprised. The thing I thought would taste like a dirty rubber band was actually really really good. That was the day I decided that I would always try something new. Just let it go. Hakuna Matata.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2OMsuwggg4

The final video I have is one from the Hunchback of Notre Dame called "Dance La Esmeralda", written once again by Alan Menken. In the video, the town jester introduces the gypsy Esmeralda as she dances in her vivid costume. For Halloween one year, I wanted to be Esmeralda. So my mom took me to the Disney Store and got me the costume along with a long black wig. It was a beautiful dress, a dark red with gold crescent moon and star designs, and purple sheer, sequined sleeves. From them hung gold sequined moons and stars. Around the waist of the dress was a purple sash that cinched it together, and the gold sequins also hung from it. The costume also came with a sheer purple scarf that was to be used as a shawl and put around one's shoulders. The wig was black, think, and curly, just like hers. In it was a gold crown with a ruby within it. Esmeralda wore large gold hoop earrings and bracelets, as did I. Her spirit is true of her role in the movie. She is very carefree, and she dances like she has nothing to worry about in the world. And I think that was my reasoning for liking her so much.

Course as a Learning Experience (Post #20)

2008-12-11T14:11:00.006-06:00

Throughout this course, we have been asked to perform several writing projects. Many of which I had never even heard of, and it was a very difficult course. Coming into Wesleyan, I think one of my biggest worries was writing, and I honestly did not feel that my previous high school writing experience had prepared me for my college English courses. I had always been in upper level English, and I had been pushed before, but I was in no way prepared for Professor Ware, and the way he would push his students. I'd always just done the assignments given to me, and I had never really learned to think outside the box and deeply analyze things. I've never had to think so in depth about writing before. And after taking this course, it’s all changed.

I learned a lot about myself this semester, as far as who I am as a writer is concerned. In writing project one, I found that I am very capable of observing things, and writing about what I see, but that I reflect on things in a way I never even knew possible. In writing project two, I found that I absolutely hate the idea of rhetorically analyzing just about anything. It was very interesting when it was applied to the rhetoric of the vice presidential and presidential candidates, but I found myself having a very hard time applying it outside of class. The whole idea of rhetoric I found to be extremely boring, and writing a paper about a painting was just definitely not for me. I hope that I never have to do it again. Writing project three seems like it is going to be a very interesting project. I absolutely love music and I constantly find myself listening to songs and remembering things, people, and events that occurred when I was listening to that song. So reflecting upon that will be a very fun project for me.

As a writer I've found that it is much more productive for me to write about something I'm passionate about, and then analyze it and reflect upon it. I never really realized how insightful I was until this class. I found this very clear when we were asked to free write. I think that working with other students and letting them read my work definitely helped me in the long run, and I enjoyed getting peer reviews, and hated getting reviews from Professor Ware, mostly because he would go off on a tangent that was not only over my head, but illegible.
Good writing to me is something that is hard to come by. It’s something that I read and then walk away from with a whole different perspective on, and it should leave the writer with a sense of fulfillment within. As a writer, it’s great to get good grades on a paper, but if I hate it, and I’m not satisfied with it, then the grade seems pointless for me. I am no longer writing to appease anyone but myself. My writing style has completely changed after taking this class. And I am truly grateful for that.

Autobiography 3

2008-12-07T22:48:00.003-06:00

One of the most comforting things a child can have growing up comes in the form of a tiny little brown bear. My favorite bear, Roger, was as much of a comfort to me when I was 5 years old as it is now that I am 19. Roger was a dark, rich brown bear with long curved arms and spoonlike paws. He had long fur, that I loved to snuggle my face into when I was hugging him. He has a hole in the top of his head that's come with old age, and his plastic black nose is worn down. He has deep dark brown eyes, that are so loving and warm.
He has constantly been waiting for me, tucked safely in bed, just laying around hoping that his friend will come see him again. He lies with a pillow under his head, blankets tight around him up to his neck. He has been, and will always will be a friend. Even though I'm now grown, his still loves how I show all my emotions to him, the brown ball of fluff that he is. He will always be there, when my life isn't so easy, if I need to cry, or when I was just tired inside. Always there to give me a hug, always so full of love. Roger was a gift from my grandmother who had long passes. He was my reminder of her, each and every day when she was no longer around. When I missed her, Roger would always be there to help me out and bring a smile to my face. In my mind, he has always been a way for me to communicate with her, and he will someday be the way that my children will communicate with me.

Autobiography 2

2008-12-05T15:27:00.003-06:00

My favorite toy as a child? Well, it is one my whole family has not forgotten. As a matter of face, almost 12 years later, it is still in use. My favorite toy was probably the ugliest looking thing anyone had ever seen. I think the best description I could give is Raggety Ann on crack. She had yellow hair, a blue dress, a red body, and a blue face. Her smile was the only thing that was the least bit human. This "thing" was a doll. It was given to me on my first birthday as a gift. My grandma brought it to me on one of her annual visits. I'm not really sure what I ever saw in this toy. Part of me thinks I did it to annoy my mother. At first glance, I thought it was the most horrible thing I'd ever seen, but to be polite, I acted like I loved it. I took her from my grandma, and headed up to my room where all my other dolls resided. I decided to name her Betty Lou, and play tea party with her. She soon became attached to me, and I refused to leave her behind regardless of where we were going, she even went to school with me. She'd sit in my backpack in my cubby and await my return. One night, I couldn't find her. We had been playing at my grandma's and when we came home I couldn't find her. I was horrified. My best friend was missing. The house was turned upside down in the search for Betty Lou. She was thankfully safe and sound, just simply hiding under the couch. Betty Lou hated taking a bath, and I used to have to hide her from my mother, and I caught her trying to sneak in and steal Betty from my grasp to wash her. Betty had her own place at the table and in the car, as well as her own bath towel and table setting. Betty had truly become my best friend.

Ask me about it now, and you'll get a blush. I don't remember all these things. After I started packing for college and came across her again , I thought putting her on a special shelf was the best way, but I think she was soon stuffed in the toy box. My mom pulled her out when I was home for break to surprise me, and I'd honestly not only forgotten about her, but thought she was long gone. Tears came to my eyes and I loved her once again. Not with the same passion of course, but true love just the same.

Autobiography 1

2008-12-03T23:27:00.004-06:00

When I was a little girl, I had a pair of high heels, that belonged to my great grandmother, and then my grandma, and then my mother, and then to me. They are quite the beautiful shoe, 3 inch heel, solid black, velvety, and pristine in condition. They were worth a solid hundred dollars or more when they were purchased and had accumulated much more worth throughout the years. In their day they had been worn to parties, social events, funerals, and graduations. While cleaning out my closet one day I came across them and as I touched the heel of the shoe, was reminded of all my days running around and pretending to be Cinderella. Running down the stairs, losing my slipper, and then awaiting Prince Charming in the comfort of our Lazy-Boy.

I began to remember how I used to believe in fairy tales? That fantasy of what my life would be, white dress, Prince Charming who would carry me away to a castle on a hill. I'd lie in bed at night and close my eyes, and I had complete and utter faith. Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, Prince Charming, they were so close, I could taste them. But eventually, I grew-up. One day, I woke up, opened my eyes, and the fairy tale disappeared. Most people turn to the things and people they can trust. But the thing is, its hard to let go of that fairy tale completely, because almost everyone still has that smallest bit of hope, of faith, that one day they'll open their eyes and it will all come true.

2008-11-24T18:47:00.006-06:00

Rhetorical Analysis Final

2008-11-23T21:48:00.008-06:00

The Mona Lisa is the most famous work in the entire 40,000-year history of the visual arts. It provokes instant shocks of recognition wherever it is shown. Reduces the Venus of Milo and the Sistine Chapel to the level of merely local marvels. Sells as many post-cards as a tropical resort, and stimulates as many people as an unsolved international murder mystery. Like many celebrities today, the Mona Lisa is simply famous for being famous. Louvre officials estimate that most of the museum’s first-time visitors come mainly to stare at this cross between a cultural model and an icon of tastelessness. (Cardinale, 2007) Undoubtedly, the painting has become part of our collective subconscious. This picture has provoked and been the object of more crazy reactions, analysis, imitations, scandalous take-offs and commercialization than any other work of art in history. But why is the Mona Lisa so famous? And what qualities does it possess that has contributed to its success?
Da Vinci clearly uses a design that places the woman simply and calmly in the space of the painting. This puts the viewer in a tranquil, relaxed state of mind. By doing this, Da Vinci is demonstrating the rhetorical appeal of pathos. As one continues to view the painting, it can be noticed that the detail of Lisa's hands reveals that her right hand is resting on her left. One would have to assume he chose this gesture rather than a wedding ring to depict Lisa as a virtuous woman and faithful wife. By doing this, Da Vinci is demonstrating ethos as well as cause and effect, by indicating the character of the woman. The woman sits strikingly upright with her arms folded, which is also a sign of her reserved posture, and is yet another example of pathos. Only her gaze is fixed on the observer and seems to welcome them with silent communication.
Mona Lisa has no visible facial hair, including eyebrows and eyelashes. It was common at this time for refined women to pluck them out, since they were considered to be unsightly. This also aides to the emotionless expression upon the woman’s face, and adds to its slightly semi-abstract quality. The figure evokes an ambiguous effect and we are attracted to this mysterious woman, but have to stay at a distance as if she were a divine creature.
The very look of that enigmatic, tight-lipped smile that has launched thousands of interpretations, logical explanations and crazy analyzes. It has been described as both innocent and inviting, and it is unknown why the smile has been seen so differently by people. Da Vinci is expressing great ethos here by appealing to the woman’s character. Because what exactly is behind the smile? The explanations range from scientific theories about human vision to ideas about Mona Lisa's identity and feelings. This expresses pathos, by appealing to the viewer’s emotions.
The trend most recently however, has leaned towards the physiological explanations for the smile. Was Mona Lisa, whoever she was, asthmatic? Simply a contented pregnant housewife? One could speculate that she smiled with her mouth closed because she was undergoing 16th-century-style mercury treatment for syphilis; the mercury would have turned her teeth an ugly black, as well as leaving her with a sorely inflamed mouth (Selkin, 2005). She could perhaps have suffered from congenital palsy affecting the left side of her face, backing up the theory by pointing out that she had the typically large hands of such patients. Or perhaps the semi-smile resulted from her being half-paralyzed either from birth or a stroke (Cardinale, 2007). This is indicated by the fact that her right hand looks relaxed but her left hand is strangely tense.
So who is the Mona Lisa? There are several variations to be considered as to the identification of the sitter. The painting was originally given its name because it was painted in imitation of Lisa del Giocondo, the wife the wealthy silk and cloth merchant Francesco del Giocondo, who is thought to have commissioned Lisa's portrait to celebrate the purchase of the family's new home in Florentine, Italy (Cardinale, 2007). The painting was intended for the portrayal of a woman of virtue. Shown as a faithful wife through gesture—her right hand rests over her left. Da Vinci presented Lisa as fashionable and successful, perhaps more well-off than she was, her dark garments and black veil were Spanish-influenced high fashion. Many believe that the veil is present because Lisa was mourning the loss of her daughter, yet another piece of identification. The portrait is strikingly large; its size is equal to that of commissions acquired by wealthier art patrons of the time. This extravagance has been explained as a sign of Francesco and Lisa's social aspiration.
During the last years of his life, Da Vinci spoke of a portrait "of a certain Florentine lady done from life at the request of the magnificent Giuliano de' Medici." (Gurstein, 2002). No evidence has been found that indicates a link between Lisa del Giocondo and Giuliano de' Medici, however, the comment could instead refer to one of the two other portraits of women painted by Da Vinci. A later statement created confusion when it linked the Mona Lisa to a portrait of Lisa del Giocondo’s husband, Francesco. Who is perhaps the origin of the controversial idea that it is the portrait is actually of a man.
This is when the idea that the Mona Lisa is actually a self-portrait came into play. The theory can be supported by the results of a digital analysis of the facial features of Leonardo's face and that of the famous painting. When a self-portrait drawing by Da Vinci is reversed and then merged with an image of the Mona Lisa, the features of the faces align perfectly (Lorenzi, 2008).Some suggest that the painting is of Da Vinci’s mother Caterina, which explains the resemblance between artist and subject, observed and would also explain why Leonardo kept the portrait with him wherever he traveled, until his death.
Whoever she may be, or whatever Da Vinci’s reasoning behind painting this woman, this painting is truly a magnificent specimen of how an artwork can impact a society in so many ways. It’s truly a magnificent work that sends deep emotional feelings, and leads to different interpretations by everyone who views it.

Works Cited:

Cardinale, Krista. The History of the Mona Lisa. 2007. Encyclomedia. 19 Nov. 2008 ‌mona_lisa.html>.

Gurstein, Rochelle. “The Mystic Smile.” Mona Lisa. 15 July 2002. 19 Nov. 2008 ‌020602.html>.

Lorenzi, Rossella. “Mona Lisa’s Identity Confirmed by Document.” Mona Lisa. Jan. 2008. Discovery News. 19 Nov. 2008 ‌020602.html>.

“Mona Lisa.” Leonardo DaVinci. Mar. 2002. 19 Nov. 2008 ‌leonardo/‌mona.html>.

Selkin, Carol. Mona Lisa Images for a Modern World. 11 Oct. 2005. Studiolo. 19 Nov. 2008 ‌Mona/‌MONASV02.htm#I:>.

Rhetorical Analysis Rough Draft

2008-11-18T01:32:00.011-06:00

The Mona Lisa is the most famous work in the entire 40,000-year history of the visual arts. It provokes instant shocks of recognition wherever it is shown, reduces the Venus of Milo and the Sistine Chapel to the level of merely local marvels, sells as many post-cards as a tropical resort, and stimulates as many people as an unsolved international murder mystery. Like many celebrities today, the Mona Lisa is simply famous for being famous. Louvre officials estimate that most of the museum’s first-time visitors come mainly to stare at this cross between a cultural model and an icon of tastelessness. Undoubtedly, the painting has become part of our collective subconscious. This picture has provoked--and been the object of--crazy reactions, adoration, analysis, gross imitations, scandalous take-offs and the object of commercialization than any other work of art in history.

Da Vinci used a pyramid design to place the woman simply and calmly in the space of the painting. Her folded hands form the front corner of the pyramid. Her breast, neck and face glow in the same light that models her hands. Detail of Lisa's hands, her right hand resting on her left. One would have to assume he chose this gesture rather than a wedding ring to depict Lisa as a virtuous woman and faithful wife. The light gives the variety of living surfaces an underlying geometry of spheres and circles. Da Vinci used the seemingly simple formula for seated female figure: the images of a seated Madonna, which were widespread at the time. He effectively modified this formula in order to create the visual impression of distance between the sitter and the observer. The armrest of the chair functions as the dividing element between Mona Lisa and the viewer. The woman sits strikingly upright with her arms folded, which is also a sign of her reserved posture. Only her gaze is fixed on the observer and seems to welcome him to this silent communication.

Mona Lisa has no visible facial hair, including eyebrows and eyelashes. It was common at this time for refined women to pluck them out, since they were considered to be unsightly. This also aides to the emotionless expression upon the woman’s face, and adds to its slightly semi-abstract quality. Since the brightly lit face is practically framed with various much darker elements (hair, veil, shadows), the observer's attraction to Mona Lisa's face is brought to even greater extent. Da Vinci’s subtle sfumato technique of modeling light and shade reached its peak with the Mona Lisa. The composition of the figure evokes an ambiguous effect and we are attracted to this mysterious woman, but have to stay at a distance as if she were a divine creature.

The painting was among the first portraits to depict the sitter before an imaginary landscape. The woman is seated in an open terrace with dark pillar bases on e side. Behind her is a vast landscape that fades into icy mountains. Winding paths and a distant bridge give only the slightest indications of human presence. The curves of the woman's hair and clothing, created once again using the sfumato technique, are shown in the imaginary valleys and rivers behind her. The blurred outlines of the figure, creates dramatic contrasts of light and dark and the overall feeling of calm is expressed throughout the piece. Due to the fusion that was achieved between sitter and landscape, it is arguable whether Mona Lisa should be considered as a traditional portrait, for it represents an ideal rather than a real woman. The sense of overall harmony achieved in the painting, especially apparent in the sitter's faint smile, reflects Da Vinci's idea of a link connecting humanity and nature.

The very look of that enigmatic, tight-lipped smile that has launched thousands of interpretations, logical explanations and crazy analyzes. It has been described as both innocent and inviting, and it is unknown why the smile has been seen so differently by people. The explanations range from scientific theories about human vision to ideas about Mona Lisa's identity and feelings. It has been argued that the smile is mostly drawn in low spatial frequencies, and so it can best be seen from a distance or with one's peripheral vision. For example, the smile appears more striking when looking at the portrait's eyes than when looking at the mouth itself. It could also be argued that the secret is in the dynamic position of Mona Lisa's facial muscles, where our mind's eye unconsciously extends her smile, resulting in an unusual dynamicity to the face that gives off a subtle yet strong emotion in the viewer of the painting.

The trend most recently however, has leaned towards the physiological explanations for the smile. Was Mona Lisa, whoever she was, asthmatic? Simply a contented pregnant housewife? One could speculate that she smiled with her mouth closed because she was undergoing 16th-century-style mercury treatment for syphilis;the mercury would have turned her teeth an ugly black, as well as leaving her with a sorely inflamed mouth. She could perhaps have suffered from congenital palsy affecting the left side of her face, backing up the theory by pointing out that she had the typically large hands of such patients. Or perhaps the semi-smile resulted from her being half-paralyzed either from birth or a stroke.This is indicated by the fact that her right hand looks relaxed but her left hand is strangely tense.

So who is the Mona Lisa? There are several variations to be considered as to the identification of the sitter. The painting was originally given its name because it was painted in imitation of Lisa del Giocondo, the wife the wealthy silk and cloth merchant Francesco del Giocondo, who is thought to have commissioned Lisa's portrait to celebrate the purchase of the family's new home in Florentine, Italy. The painting was intended for the portrayal of a woman of virtue. Shown as a faithful wife through gesture—her right hand rests over her left. Da Vinci presented Lisa as fashionable and successful, perhaps more well-off than she was, her dark garments and black veil were Spanish-influenced high fashion. Many believe that the veil is present because Lisa was mourning the loss of her daughter, yet another piece of identification. The portrait is strikingly large; its size is equal to that of commissions acquired by wealthier art patrons of the time. This extravagance has been explained as a sign of Francesco and Lisa's social aspiration.

During the last years of his life, Da Vinci spoke of a portrait "of a certain Florentine lady done from life at the request of the magnificent Giuliano de' Medici." No evidence has been found that indicates a link between Lisa del Giocondo and Giuliano de' Medici, however, the comment could instead refer to one of the two other portraits of women painted by Da Vinci. A later statement created confusion when it linked the Mona Lisa to a portrait of Lisa del Giocondo’s husband, Francesco. Who is perhaps the origin of the controversial idea that it is the portrait is actually of a man.

Which is when the idea that the Mona Lisa is actually a self-portrait came into play. The theory can be supported by the results of a digital analysis of the facial features of Leonardo's face and that of the famous painting. When a self-portrait drawing by Da Vinci is reversed and then merged with an image of the Mona Lisa, the features of the faces align perfectly. Some suggest that the painting is of Da Vinci’s mother Caterina, which explains the resemblance between artist and subject, observed and would also explain why Leonardo kept the portrait with him wherever he traveled, until his death.

Whomever she may be, or whatever Da Vinci’s reasoning behind painting this woman, this painiting is truly a magnificent specimen of how an artwork can impact a society in so many ways. Its truly a magnificent work that sends deep emotional feelings, and leads to different intrepretations by everyone who views it.

Works Cited:

http://www.encyclomedia.com/mona_lisa.html

http://www.studiolo.org/Mona/MONALIST.htm

http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/vinci/joconde/

http://www.lairweb.org.nz/leonardo/mona.html

http://www.arlindo-correia.com/020602.html

WWII Propaganda

2008-11-09T20:20:00.005-06:00

In this picture, most of the paper space is used up with the image of the woman. By doing this, the poster draws the attention of the viewer first most directly to the lady. The result of this being that the propaganda almost immediately distinguishes its audience. The lady is dressed in army garb, which is somewhat unusual as it was not generally the woman’s role to engage in warfare. By this variance, it draws more attention to the woman, thus amplifying their point. The second most noticeable feature on this poster is the American flag that resides behind the woman. By displaying the flag, it accomplishes two primary tasks: first, the flag is a symbol or type. The flag symbolizes respect, freedom, and liberty. So by showing the flag, the poster instills those feelings. Secondly, by displaying the woman standing in front of the flag, it denotes her loyalty to her country. This layout is key as the purpose of the poster is to recruit women, so by displaying a woman who is willing to serve her counter, it creates the same feelings in women viewing the poster, thus making them want to join the army.
In this poster, the words “This is my war too!” are written at the bottom in fairly large font. By using the larger font, the words will draw attention more that the other words would. This phrase combined with the picture of the woman instills an emotion of responsibility into female viewers. This poster does this through addressing the stereotypical fact of many more men joining up with the war than women. By bringing up this point, some women feel as if the men shouldn’t have to do everything with the war but that the women should get involved as well. With the use of the phrase ‘my war’, the sentence introduces a sense of ownership. With ownership of a great issue comes responsibility of that issue. Also, by saying that the war is partially owned by the women, it implies that the women have a say in the outcome of the war. This pushes the emotion of responsibility even further. The point of this poster is to create enough emotion in the women viewers to the extent that they will go out and join the army.

Responsibility

2008-11-05T07:34:00.008-06:00

Remember when you were a kid and your biggest worry was like if you'd get a bike for your birthday, or if you'd get to eat cookies for breakfast? Now that I am officially an adult, I'm beginning to think its totally overrated. Don't be fooled by all the hot shoes, the great parties, and the no parents anywhere telling you what to do. Its the responsibility that comes with all that privilege I'm worried about. I mean adults have to be places, and earn a living, and pay the rent. See? Its kind of making bikes and cookies look really really good isn't it? And you know what the scariest part of responsibility is? When you screw up, and let it slip right through your fingers. Unfortunately however, once we get past the age of braces and training bras, responsibility doesn't go away. Without parents to defy, we break the rules we make for ourselves. Responsibility can't be avoided, either someone makes us face it, or we suffer the consequences. . And still, I mean adulthood has its perks, your own place, your own privacy, and the no parents anywhere telling you what to do, well, that's pretty damn good.

Also in the unfortunate category, is the inevitability that in life only one thing is certain...apart from death and taxes...no matter how hard you try, no matter how good your intentions, you are going to make mistakes. You're going to hurt people, you're going to get hurt, and if you ever want to recover, there is only one thing you can say. Forgive and forget, that's what they say, it's good advice, but its not very practical. When someone hurts us, we want to hurt them back. When someone wrongs us, we want to be right. Without forgiveness, old scores are never settled...old wounds never heal. And the most we can hope for is that one day we'll be lucky enough to forget.

Fairy Tales

2008-11-02T15:50:00.009-06:00

After careful consideration, and many sleepless nights, here's what I've decided: There is no such thing as a "grown-up". We eventually move on and move out, and we will move away from our families, and start our own. But the basic insecurities, the basic fears, and all the old wounds will just grow up with us. We get bigger, we get taller, we get older, but for the most part we're still a bunch of kids, running around the playground, trying desperately to fit in. I've heard it's possible to grow up, I've just never met anyone who's actually ever done it. Without our parents to defy, we break the rules we set for ourselves. We still throw tantrums when things don't go our way, we whisper secrets in the dark with our best friends, we look for comfort where we can find it. And we hope, against all logic, against all experience, like children we never give up hope.

Like you know how when you were a kid and you believed in fairy tales? That fantasy of what your life would be, white dress, Prince Charming who would carry you away to a castle on a hill. You'd lie in bed at night and close your eyes, and you had complete and utter faith. Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, Prince Charming, they were so close, you could taste them. But eventually, we grow-up. One day, we wake up, open our eyes, and the fairy tale disappears. Most people turn to the things and people they can trust. But the thing is, its hard to let go of that fairy tale completely, because almost everyone still has that smallest bit of hope, of faith, that one day they'll open their eyes and it will all come true.

At the end of the day, faith is a funny thing. It turns up when you don't really expect it. Its like one day you realize that the fairy tale may be slightly different than you dreamed. The castle, well its may not be a castle. And it suddenly becomes not so important that its happily ever after. Just that it's happy right now. See once in awhile, once in a blue moon, people will surprise you. And once in awhile... people may even take your breath away.

Vice Presidential Debate

2008-10-26T20:33:00.003-05:00

In the Vice Presidential debate, each candidate was asked the question, "What promises, given the events of the week, the bailout plan, have your campaigns made to the American people that you are not going to be able to keep?" Both candidates used different tactics and strategies an attempt to persuade the audience. They used different methods to reach the people in a variety of ways. Using logos, pathos, and ethos, candidate is effectively arguing or debating their opinions and beliefs.

After Joe Biden's response, Sarah Palin begins to answer the question by saying, "The nice thing about running with John McCain is that he does not tell one thing to one group and then turn around and tell something different to another group." By opening with that particular statement, Sarah Palin is able to effectively give credibility to John McCain using the rhetorical method of ethos; it provides John McCain with the credentials that he is an authoritative figure that is very trustable.

After speaking about John McCain, Sarah Palin then begins to use a different approach and talks of her feelings on the subject. She once again uses ethos by talking about the energy plan, "You know what I had to do in the state of Alaska? I had to take on those oil companies and tell them that their mode of operation was wrong and that it was not going to continue." By providing the audience with this information, she is establishing herself as a very powerful figure that has a lot of control and authority. By using this approach, the speaker's character is persuading, as she is showing what she has accomplished at a position already as a leader. She's trying to show the American people that she is very capable of being in a position at a level of high authority and in control.

Sarah Palin also made several statements about herself that shows the goodwill of her character. She presents information by quoting, "What I had to do was break up monopoly and say that the people are going to come first and make sure we have value given to the people.” This can be considered an ethos because she speaks of the goodwill she has a person but it is also interpreted as a pathos. It may be considered a pathos statement because it also applies to emotion, and it directly relates to the people and it is a subject that the audience can easily relate to.

Finally, Sarah Palin uses ethos to wrap up her main points. She says, "I had to turn around those tax breaks as a governor of an energy producing state, which is my own expertise (energy)." She is showing that she is very experienced in the area of energy conservation, which is very important for her to be able to have even more credibility as a leader. Palin then says, "I do not believe that John McCain has made any promises that he would not be able to keep either." This is a very bold statement that is an ethos, for she is showing the reliability and trustworthiness that John McCain has as a potential President. It puts him in a very high position with a great amount of authority and control. Throughout the debate, there are various examples of ethos that Palin used to attempt to persuade and convince her audience.

Presidential debate

2008-10-21T20:19:00.004-05:00

In this clip that I viewed, the question was asked whether or not the budget can be balanced in four years. John McCain, begins the answering of the question by saying," Senator Obama, I am not President Bush," he then proceeds to talk about Obama's voting record, "He voted twice for a budget resolution, that increases the taxes on individuals." By using statistics and defining the budget resolution, he is demonstrating logos. He then proceeds to run around the actual question, of how he would actually do it, and then uses examples of other people's solutions to distract the audience. He says " That American's are hurtin' and upset, and he understands that," which is an example of pathos AND ethos, he is showing that he feels strongly about the American people's well being as well as the fact he is relateable. Obama is then allowed to retort on the subject, and responds by using logos, and talks about all the things that he has supported, such as "charter schools, and paid for performance for teachers, clean coal technology, and says that he has a history of reaching across the aisle."

Chap 1 and 2 Questions

2008-10-16T13:26:00.003-05:00

Chap 1:

1) Is it better to use visual or verbal rhetoric?

2) How do you know when it is better to use a black & white rhetoric?

3) Does it only apply to cartoons?

Chap 2:

1) How is a brochure an effect technique for persuasion?

2) What role does ethos play in persuasion?

3) Is exaggeration an effect technique in persuasion?

Final Paper- St. Mary's

2008-10-12T21:57:00.014-05:00

On any given Sunday, the parking lot begins filling up, church goers make their way into a beautiful church, with snowy white bricks, stain-glass windows, and red oak doors. Enchanting and breathtaking this building possesses fantastic architecture and exquisite frescoes that reflect perfectly upon the unity between the earth and the unseen kingdom of angels, in such a manner that one cannot say where one ends and the other begins. The way in which the church was built is also a vivid testimony of a medieval period. Although it is a place that can sometimes be cold and demanding of respect, it is also where prayers are answered, hope is restored, and faith is answered. An overwhelming feeling of inner harmony and tranquility engulfs a person as they enter and God seems just that much closer.
The incoming church goers shuffle around trying to find a seat within the pews, greeting each other, some heavy eyed from lack of sleep. Most of which were parents, trying desperately to keep their children from running throughout the sanctuary. Entering the sanctuary, the vocals of the choir can be heard singing a hymn; the candles near the pulpit give off a warm, earthy glow that leads the congregation to their seats. After receiving a program and sitting down an elderly gentleman and his wife took a seat in the pew that was one from the back. After talking amongst themselves for awhile they were suddenly interrupted by a swift kicking to the back of their seat. The elderly man turned around to find a young boy, of about 7 years old, with a very determined look on his face. His mother deftly grabbing his shoulder, telling him to knock it off, telling him to apologize for being so rude. He replied with a quick “No,” and that is when it could be seen. The look. The look that each child gets every so often after they misbehave, the condescending look that makes children everywhere feel as though they were only a foot tall. His face suddenly changed, he mumbled “Sorry,” and immediately folded his arms, defeated. The gentleman turned around, with a smile that spread from his face to deep within his being, one that suggested he was experiencing a memory of perhaps one of his grandchildren. This church possessed a certain “homey” atmosphere that made everyone feel comfortable at the church, even a new member, with no familiar faces nearby, could feel welcome.
Soon, it was time for the sermon to begin, promptly at 8:00 everyone had piled into the sanctuary, and it was absolutely packed. The sanctuary was filled with many different groups of people, each with a different reason for being there. Many college students seemed to be in attendance this particular morning, either continuing a tradition from back home, or perhaps looking for guidance in a seemingly overwhelming period of time in their lives. Many of them most likely intellectual beings, seeming slightly unsure of their beliefs, they seemed out of place, lost. The acolytes walked into the sanctuary, up the aisle, and to the altar to light the candles to begin the precession. After the last candle was lit, the priest began his sermon, “Procrastination,” oddly appropriate considering it was something almost every student in the congregation had done at least once in their life. Everyone appeared instantly became transfixed upon his words, and found myself reflecting on every word he spoke. “Do we have any procrastinators out there this morning? I don't know about you, but I have been known... on occasion... to procrastinate just a bit.” “By nature I'm a pretty punctual individual, but I have been known to have things that I know I need to get done, and I wait until the last minute to do them. Sometimes it's just fine. They get done with no harm. However, other times it leads to a good deal of unnecessary stress…” he trailed off. I could not help but agree with everything he said.
I began thinking about all the times I have been told that procrastination was a bad thing. I mean, a couple hundred years ago. Benjamin Franklin shared with the world the secret of his success. “Never leave that till tomorrow, he said, “Which you can do today.” This was the man who discovered electricity; you would think more of us would listen to what he had to say. I don’t really know why we put things off, but if I had to guess, I would say it has a lot to do with fear. Fear of pain, fear of rejection, and most importantly fear of failure. Sometimes, the fear is just of making a decision. Because what if you are wrong? What if you are making a mistake you cannot undo? Whatever it is that we’re afraid of, one thing holds true, that by the time the stress of not doing anything, gets worse than the fear of actually doing it, we can feel as though we’re carrying around a giant weight. Something that outweighs us. And for me, that is the weight of my future. Everything that I do from here on out will impact my future, and for someone who has had parents to look to for instruction, that can be a horrible feeling. And many of us will make mistakes along the way, but that is how we learn to not procrastinate. But for me, I need to learn my own lessons, make my own mistakes, and sweep tomorrow’s possibility under tomorrow’s rug until I cannot anymore. Until I finally understand for myself what Benjamin Franklin really meant: that knowing is better than wondering, that waking is better than sleeping, and that the biggest failure, even the worst, most intractable mistake, beats the hell out of never trying. I heard his booming voice once again and I was suddenly brought out of my reflective state as he finished, “In the name of the father and of the son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.” After the sermon was I was left with a new feeling of enlightenment and understanding. The feeling that I had been searching for since I have been here, while desperately trying to transition from high school to college, and grow up. I am not an extremely religious person, nor do I fully know what I truly believe in, but I feel as though there was a reason that I, as well as all the other college students, was supposed to go to that church on Sunday. An assignment that I felt was going to be just a time consuming task turned out to really be something that completely changed my perspective on the way I was living my life and I am really very thankful for that.

St. Mary's

2008-10-07T11:39:00.004-05:00

It had been nearly twelve years since my brother had been baptized, and nearly a two years since I last stepped foot in a church. Things in my hectic life have gotten the best of me, and by the time Sunday rolled around, all I wanted to do was sleep. Since I have been in school however, things have started to become cloudy, and I felt as though going to church to seek some guidance would help. So I enlisted the help of the massive Yellow pages. I came across the nearest Catholic Church I could find, St. Mary’s Catholic Church on 14th and K. A quick ten minute drive across town landed me at one of the most beautiful churches I have ever laid eyes on. With its cathedral style architecture, snowy white bricks, stain-glass windows, and red oak doors, the church was simply a masterpiece.
I walked in to see all the incoming church goers shuffling around trying to find a seat within the pews, greeting each other, some heavy eyed from lack of sleep. Most of which were parents, trying desperately to keep their children from running throughout the sanctuary. Seeing this, I am suddenly reminded of all the Sundays with my grandmother. As I enter the sanctuary, I am greeted with the vocals of the choir singing a hymn, and candles near the pulpit, the warm glow lighting the way to my seat. After receiving a program and sitting down, the thoughts of my grandmother begin to whirl around me. Suddenly, they were interrupted by a swift kicking to the back of my seat. I turned around to find a young boy, of about 7 years old, with a very determined look on his face. His mother deftly grabbing his shoulder, telling him to knock it off, telling him to apologize for being so rude. He replied with a quick “No,” and that is when I saw it. The look. The look that I remember seeing so often, the condescending look that made me feel as though I was a foot tall. His face suddenly changed, he mumbled “sorry,” and immediately folded his arms, defeated. I turned around, with a warm smile on my face, and unexpectedly felt terribly homesick. I felt comfortable at the church, but I did not see any familiar faces, any particularly warm greetings, or hugs.
Soon, it was time for the sermon to begin, promptly at 8:00 everyone had piled into the sanctuary, and it was absolutely packed. My nose is filled with many different scents, but once particular fragrance stuck out to me: Old Spice. This man however, felt the need to bathe in it, rather than just splash it on. Yet the more and more I smell it, the more I realize that that is a fragrance that is all too familiar to me. It is a scent I have not smelled in years, but it is one I hold very dear to me. My grandfather wore it after every shave, and I can almost feel him near me as the scent engulfs me. As I was taking it all in, the priest began his sermon, “Procrastination,” oddly appropriate considering that it was something I had been doing notoriously. I instantly became transfixed upon his words, and found myself reflecting on every word he spoke. “Do we have any procrastinators out there this morning? I don't know about you, but I have been known... on occasion... to procrastinate just a bit.” “By nature I'm a pretty punctual individual, but I have been known to have things that I know I need to get done, and I wait until the last minute to do them. Sometimes it's just fine. They get done with no harm. However, other times it leads to a good deal of unnecessary stress…” he trailed off. I could not help but agree with everything he said.
I began thinking about all the times I have been told that procrastination was a bad thing. I mean, a couple hundred years ago. Benjamin Franklin shared with the world the secret of his success. “Never leave that till tomorrow, he said, “Which you can do today.” This was the man who discovered electricity; you would think more of us would listen to what he had to say. I don’t really know why we put things off, but if I had to guess, I would say it has a lot to do with fear. Fear of pain, fear of rejection, and most importantly fear of failure. Sometimes, the fear is just of making a decision. Because what if you are wrong? What if you are making a mistake you cannot undo? Whatever it is that we’re afraid of, one thing holds true, that by the time the stress of not doing anything, gets worse than the fear of actually doing it, we can feel as though we’re carrying around a giant weight. Something that outweighs us. And for me, that is the weight of my future. Everything that I do from here on out will impact my future, and for someone who has had parents to look to for instruction, that can be a horrible feeling. And many of us will make mistakes along the way, but that is how we learn to not procrastinate. But for me, I need to learn my own lessons, make my own mistakes, and sweep tomorrow’s possibility under tomorrow’s rug until I cannot anymore. Until I finally understand for myself what Benjamin Franklin really meant: that knowing is better than wondering, that waking is better than sleeping, and that the biggest failure, even the worst, most intractable mistake, beats the hell out of never trying. “In the name of the father and of the son and the Holy Spirit. Amen,” he finished. And I was suddenly brought out of my reflective state with a new feeling of enlightenment and understanding. The feeling that I had been searching for since I have been here, while desperately trying to transition from high school to college, and grow up. I am not an extremely religious person, nor do I fully know what I truly believe in, but I feel as though there was a reason I was supposed to go to that church on Sunday. An assignment that I felt was going to be just a time consuming task turned out to really be something that completely changed my perspective on the way I was living my life and I am really very thankful for that.

Fate/Love

2008-10-05T23:19:00.005-05:00

In the 9th grade, my English class had to read Romeo and Juliet. Then for extra credit, Mr. Carter made us act out all the parts. And as fate would have it, I was Juliet. All the other girls were jealous. But I had a slightly different take. I told Mr. Carter that Juliet was an idiot. For starters, she falls for the one guy she knows she can't have. And then blames fate for her own bad decisions. Mr. Carter explained to me that sometimes, when fate comes into play, choice sometimes goes out the window. At the ripe old age of fourteen, I was very clear, that love, like life, is about making choices and fate has nothing to do with it. Everyone thinks its so romantic, Romeo and Juliet, true love, how sad. But if Juliet was stupid enough to fall for the enemy, drink a bottle of poison, and go to sleep in a mausoleum, she deserved whatever she got. I mean maybe Romeo and Juliet were fated to be together, but just for a little while, and then their time passed. But if they could have known that beforehand, maybe it all would have been okay. I told Mr. Carter that when I was grown-up, I would take fate into my own hands. I would not let some guy drag me down. Mr. Carter said I'd be lucky if I ever had that kind of passion with someone. And that if I did, we would be together forever. Even now, I still believe that for the most part, love is about choices. Its about putting down the poison and the dagger and making your own happy ending, most of the time. And that sometimes, despite all your best choices, and all your best intentions, fate wins anyway.

2008-09-21T22:14:00.004-05:00

Millions of Americans tune in every Thursday to watch the hugely popular medical drama, Grey's Anatomy. The show, centered primarily around five interns, Meredith Grey, Isobel Stevens, Alex Karev, Christina Yang, and George O'Malley, follows each intern through all their trials and tribulations while working at Seattle Grace Hospital in Seattle, Washington. The show begins with the lead character, Meredith Grey having a one-night stand with her soon to be boss, Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd. We soon find that Derek is in fact married and has been having an affair with Meredith. Addison, Derek's wife, cheated on him with his best friend, Dr. Mark Sloan, who will later show up to stir things up. However, Derek's love for Meredith prevails and he soon divorces Addison and gets back together with Meredith. The show is centered around Derek and Meredith's on again-off again relationship and fans tune in every week to see what's going to happen next. In this season, season 4, Meredith and Derek have especially hot and cold. Derek has been dating a scrub nurse, Rose and Meredith has entered therapy as a result. The season finale left us with Meredith, in a house built of candles on the land where Derek wants to built their dream house. Derek leaves to go tell Rose that their relationship is in fact finished. He doesn't want anything dwelling on his conscience like it did before with his relationship with Meredith. Since the finale, several promos have appeared giving the viewers a little taste of what's to come. Many of them show Derek himself on a stretcher, crashing and Meredith crying, and screaming his name. Another shows Rose informing Derek she is pregnant with his child, and another shows Meredith asking Derek to move in with her. Now the real question, as a fan of the show is, Can Meredith and Derek really be happy together? Can they really have a happily ever after? Whatever the outcome, it is sure to be an exciting start to another fantastic season. If you're not a fan of the show, give it a shot this Thursday at 8. I can almost guarantee you'll be hooked.

Video

2008-09-14T23:30:00.002-05:00

I'm gonna be 100% honest here and say that I have no idea what the hell I am doing because I missed class on Thurs due to a lab. I'm sorry.

Blog Post 1

2008-09-04T14:19:00.009-05:00

"An essay is a golf swing, an angler's cast, a tennis serve. For example, say, and experience happens to you, one that seems to have literary potential. You wait for it to grow in your mind into a short story, or even just an episode of "Friends," but somehow it doesn't. Then a further experience, or an odd chance, or something a friend says, or something in the newspaper chimes with the first experience, and suddenly you understand you can write about it, and you do. You quit longing for form and write what's there, with whatever serviceable prose comes to hand, for no better reason than the fun and release of saying. That sequence-- that combination of patience with sudden impatience, that eventual yielding to the simple desire to tell-- identifies the essay." (Atwan 23)

-Ian Frazier

I found this quote very appealing because most of my papers are ones that can be related back to something that has happened in my life. I like my papers to be relatable, and as Frazier says, sometimes no matter how great of an experience, sometimes you just can’t write about it yet. Something else has to happen, is yet to happen for us to fully understand it. Frazier talks about how often, we can find things on television, he uses “Friends” as an example to relate back to an experience we’ve had. And if you really think about it, what does make a television show popular? What makes people sit down every week and watch a show? It’s the characters, the experiences that they have that keep people wanting more. Things that make you sit back and go, yeah, that’s happened to me. Or, what would I have done had I been in that position? The same holds true for a good essay.

Body diagram:

Diagrams function in many ways, but the most important function, in my opinion would be to give a deeper understanding of the topic at hand. The diagram I selected is definitely a learning device. Someone who is studying diabetes, for example would find this very useful because if shows the digestive system, from organ to organ. The original context of this diagram is in an article about diabetes, and now that it has been removed from its original context, it has lost much of its meaning. It needs the article that goes along with it to make sense. One without the other is like peanut butter without the jelly. It just doesn’t make sense. As a writer, my responsibility after removing the diagram from its original context is to properly cite it, as well as maybe even hyperlink it to its original text. The details that are important, in my diagram are of course the internal organs of the digestive system. Its labeled with an arrow pointing to each organ. I wouldn’t of labeled them any differently, it seems as though this is the most efficient way. I think that diagrams are a huge part of writing. In a research paper, this would be an extremely valuable tool in presenting information. It is a huge part of writing, to deeper understanding, and to explain things in depth.

Test Post

2008-08-28T14:47:00.000-05:00

Test Post