Dear Stephen Colbert,
I have really enjoyed reading this chapter for it has been both entertaining and educational. Your views on Hollywood are, once again, quite unpolitically correct. I must agree that Hollywood has just been getting worse every year. The only good movies these days are comedies and action movies because all the dramas are filled with liberal propaganda and views that I do not agree with. For any Hollywood people out there who may read this, LEAVE POLITICS OUT OF THE MOVIES! Please, movies are what people watch when they want to get away from politics and what is going on in the world. People don't want to hear some director's political views for two hours.
Today's liberal controlled media obviously advocates Hollywood and supports it with a vengeance, if that makes any sense. Nothing that comes out of either Hollywood or the media can be trusted to be unbiased anymore. The days of Americans reading news that was about the good of America and not all the bad things that are happening has come to an end. Both groups try to show tragedy and spread fear through their creations because that helps destroy our self esteem and puts us citizens in line for them to order around. I'm not sure if this is really true, but it is a view that Stephen T. Colbert would certainly endorse, and thus belongs in this post. Also, the tabloids created because of people's fantasies of being a celebrity/ love of criticizing them have degraded our society. They make us want to be something that we never will be and should never want to be. Actors and Actresses these days have lost their minds and will do anything for attention. I do not believe this is good, and it implies bad morals for children.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Post A #6
Vocab
- Squalid: Foul and repulsive, as from lack of care or cleanliness; neglected and filthy. Adjective (page140).
- Debased: To reduce in quality or value; adulterate: They debased the value of the dollar. Or to lower in rank, dignity, or significance. Verb (page 143).
- Irony: "The Supreme Court hates America" (135). This is an example of irony because, to an extent, the Supreme Court IS America, and thus America hates itself....very ironic.
- Metaphor: "Hollywood is liberal propaganda" (145). This is a metaphor because it compares Hollywood to liberal propaganda using the word "is".
- Simile: It was like the Bill of Rights, only for movies, and instead of saying what you could do, it said what you couldn't" (135). This is an example of a simile because it compares the Production Code to the Bill of Rights using the word "like".
- "I knew a lot of yard guys were illegal immigrants--Blue Collar Banditos stealing manual labor jobs away from Americans who had moved onto something less strenuous. So I let them do the lawn, then asked to see their green cards. They didn't have any, so I went inside and called INS. When Los Federales rolled up, I shouted from the window, 'Enjoy mowing Mexico!' It was an ugly scene. Turns out, they didn't have green cards because they were all Americans. In fact, African-Americans. I explained that I don't see Race. On that subject, I am very enlightened--and equally endarkened. Eventually, everything was smoothed over with some sizeable tips to the landscapers, and to the cops" (149). I thought this quote was just hilarious, but it is also quite significant. It shows how Stephen Colbert "sees no race", and how he views illegal immigrants.
- The theme for this chapter will have to be Hollywood and how it has changed for the worse because of the Supreme Court...
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Post B #5
Deart Stephen T. Colbert,
I certainly admire your directness when it comes to your oppinons, but sometimes it seems almost too much. Anyways, what you have stated in your book thus far is not only hysterical, but unpolitically correct too. Political correctness, in my opinion, is the bane of society. We live in a country with free speach and I uphold that value about nearly all others. Free speach is what makes us different from Communist Russia, North Korea, and, in the case of France, free educated speach separates us from them. The media today certainly has a pole up their anuses when critisizing nearly everyone who has a different view and wishes to express it. If Bush says something stupid, the media swarms to make fun of him as much as possible, but Hillary? If she does something ideotic (every day) nobody concerned with making news even writes a sentance about it. Even if they dislike her, people are scared of being critisized by other newpapers. Liberal Media is everywhere and is corrupting society.
Now on to homosexuals, your theme for this chapter. I certainly agree that there is no need for gays to flaunt their sexuality, and that otherwise there is not a considerable problem with them in general. Only the fact that they are so obnoxious that they talk differently and dress differently. Why do people need to do this? They don't and they know it, gays only do these things to be annoying and I blame that as the main problem people have with gays. Also, it says nowhere in the bible that gays should be married or allowed to be gay, and I, as a christian, certainly agree with the bible too. God's word is more powerful than Hillary's, especially when the majority of Americans are Christian. If the majority of people in a country want something to be one way, who can be selfish enough to oppose it besides maybe the ACLU and a certain woman of Clinton namesake? Which reminds me that the ACLU is anti-american and should be abolished because it is full of atheistic, communistic people that think their ideas are more important than those of American and that what they want should be law.
I certainly admire your directness when it comes to your oppinons, but sometimes it seems almost too much. Anyways, what you have stated in your book thus far is not only hysterical, but unpolitically correct too. Political correctness, in my opinion, is the bane of society. We live in a country with free speach and I uphold that value about nearly all others. Free speach is what makes us different from Communist Russia, North Korea, and, in the case of France, free educated speach separates us from them. The media today certainly has a pole up their anuses when critisizing nearly everyone who has a different view and wishes to express it. If Bush says something stupid, the media swarms to make fun of him as much as possible, but Hillary? If she does something ideotic (every day) nobody concerned with making news even writes a sentance about it. Even if they dislike her, people are scared of being critisized by other newpapers. Liberal Media is everywhere and is corrupting society.
Now on to homosexuals, your theme for this chapter. I certainly agree that there is no need for gays to flaunt their sexuality, and that otherwise there is not a considerable problem with them in general. Only the fact that they are so obnoxious that they talk differently and dress differently. Why do people need to do this? They don't and they know it, gays only do these things to be annoying and I blame that as the main problem people have with gays. Also, it says nowhere in the bible that gays should be married or allowed to be gay, and I, as a christian, certainly agree with the bible too. God's word is more powerful than Hillary's, especially when the majority of Americans are Christian. If the majority of people in a country want something to be one way, who can be selfish enough to oppose it besides maybe the ACLU and a certain woman of Clinton namesake? Which reminds me that the ACLU is anti-american and should be abolished because it is full of atheistic, communistic people that think their ideas are more important than those of American and that what they want should be law.
Post A #5
Vocab
- Codpiece: "(In the 15th and 16th centuries) a flap or cover for the crotch in men's hose or tight-fitting breeches, usually matching the costume and often decorated. Noun (107)".
- Flaunt: "To parade or display oneself conspicuously, defiantly, or boldly. Verb (109)".
- Cummerbund: "A wide sash worn at the waist, esp. a horizontally pleated one worn with a tuxedo. Noun (112).
Figurative Language
- Symbol: "Nowhere in the bible does God say he wants pairs of men to be fruitful and multiply" (112). This is a symbol of what many people, even christians, believe is wrong. When a christian advocates gay marriage, he is no longer a christian that believes in the bible.
- Metaphore: "Sacrifice is love" (113). This compares love and sacrifice without useing like or as.
- Irony: "Elbow patches? Just what are these lecherous lectuers doing behind their lecterns that wear out their elbows so fast?" (116). This is an example of irony because Stephen Colbert doubtless has some elbow patches, and he like them, only sits behind a table all day recording the Colbert Report.
Quote
- "First word we reclaim? "Homosexual." From now on, it's going to mean what it always should have: heterosexual. Think about it. "Homo" means "the same." And we're all born with the same sexual orientation-straight. Ask any baby" (107). This quote is significant because it explains how Stephen T. Colbert feels about gays; very strongly opposed.
Theme
- The theme in this case is Homosexuals and how they are bad. Stephen cetainly has strong opinions, and this is one he talks about passionately.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Post B #4
Dear Stephen T Colbert,
Your opinions on sex remind me a lot of our public school system in that you seem to think abstinance only until marriage is the right thing to do. As good as it would be if people stayed abstinant until marriage, it's not going to happen. So, what should be done is kids should be incouraged to stay abstinant, but taught about how to prevent STDs and "mishaps" during sexual encounters. If someone isn't taught what to do, they can't really do it...
Also, you seem to make referances to the olympics in your book. I agree that it is bad how very few of our proffessional athletes participate in the olympics. We should win basketball every year but we've never gotten better than thrid because so few pros play. It is almost a disgrace to this great nation that we have such good athletes, but they refuse to represent their nation in an international event.
I admit that I, like you, am not as just as I should be in comparing myself with people that are different. But really, certain professional female sports (basketball, hockey and golf) are best left male-only. It's not that I hate women, it's that I feel it is sexist to seperate the sexes into different catagories. If segregation of races is racist, how is segregation of sexes just? But if women are put into the same teams as men, they'd all be fired because they cannot perform as well as men. Here is where the problem lies. Should women be allowed to perform second-rate in front of secon-rate fans? The numbers just arnt there. But we need to decide about this, female and male professional sports are so different that they are hardly the same sport. Men just perform so much better... So if women have their own catagorie, they can actually compete, which makes sense to do. But, I still believe that seperation of sexes in sports is sexest, and Mr. Stephen T. Colbert surely agrees.
Your opinions on sex remind me a lot of our public school system in that you seem to think abstinance only until marriage is the right thing to do. As good as it would be if people stayed abstinant until marriage, it's not going to happen. So, what should be done is kids should be incouraged to stay abstinant, but taught about how to prevent STDs and "mishaps" during sexual encounters. If someone isn't taught what to do, they can't really do it...
Also, you seem to make referances to the olympics in your book. I agree that it is bad how very few of our proffessional athletes participate in the olympics. We should win basketball every year but we've never gotten better than thrid because so few pros play. It is almost a disgrace to this great nation that we have such good athletes, but they refuse to represent their nation in an international event.
I admit that I, like you, am not as just as I should be in comparing myself with people that are different. But really, certain professional female sports (basketball, hockey and golf) are best left male-only. It's not that I hate women, it's that I feel it is sexist to seperate the sexes into different catagories. If segregation of races is racist, how is segregation of sexes just? But if women are put into the same teams as men, they'd all be fired because they cannot perform as well as men. Here is where the problem lies. Should women be allowed to perform second-rate in front of secon-rate fans? The numbers just arnt there. But we need to decide about this, female and male professional sports are so different that they are hardly the same sport. Men just perform so much better... So if women have their own catagorie, they can actually compete, which makes sense to do. But, I still believe that seperation of sexes in sports is sexest, and Mr. Stephen T. Colbert surely agrees.
Post A #4
Vocab
- Sambuca: An ancient stringed musical instrument used in Greece and the Near East. noun (page 77).
- Hubris: Excessive pride or self-confidence; arrogance. noun (page 79).
Figurative Language
- Imagery: "Greased up naked men slapping hot sweaty body parts against one another's taut and hairless flesh in pursuit of victory" (81). This is an example of imagery because it uses the five sentances to describe what is happening. Well, at least sight, sound, smell and touch. I'm sorry I had to use this quote fore it is quite disturbing...
- Metaphore: "Sex is power" (87). This is a metaphore because it is comparing sex and power without using like or as.
- Onomonopia: "Whooo hooo" (83). This is an anomonopia because it is words describing a sound.
Quote
- "If you think temporary tattoos are okay, perhapse I can interest you in some temporary eternal damnation" (89). This quote is significant because it explains mostly how conservative Sterphen Colbert's views expressed in this book are.
Theme
- The theme of this book at the moment is sex and dating. Stephen is talking about how and why both humans and animals have sex, which is kinda of awkward to read. But, it is doable because of how funny he makes it and his mock seriousness can be nearly unnerving at times.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
On the Waterfront Film As Litterature Review!
The film On the Waterfront, directed by Elia Kazan, is a true American classic that portrays a David and Goliath type story in which Terry Malloy (Marlon Brando) stands up for the rights of dockworkers in a corrupt New Jersey union. He “whistle blows” to ameliorate the livelihood of those around him. By doing this, Terry loses a great deal along the way, but he learns many valuable lessons and secures a profitable future for the dockworkers. Overall, this film was exceedingly effective in teaching me the fundamentals of being a canary in case I should need them. It also was effective in portraying an underdog story in which a large group of people gain their rights. This film was exciting, thought provoking, and an excellent choice in which to analyze aspects of film and similarities with All My Sons.
The literary aspects of this film are appealing to me because they actually help the film to realize its full potential. The plot is an in-depth, interesting, twisted thing from a time before Hollywood’s gangster fad began. It tells a compelling story that both excites you, and forces you to mourn during scenes of tragic death. The characters are well thought up and have realistic emotions in proportion to what happens. They are deep and complex, while remaining simple to relate to. The setting is very appropriate, being approximately when the movie was filmed. It takes place in a New Jersey shipping town and the portrayals of city life are fantastic. The themes of this film were antagonizing and interesting at the same time. Seeing how Terry, though helping the dockworkers through whistle blowing, was shunned because of fear is difficult to watch. But on the other hand, it is good to see someone do something to change the depravity that exists at the docks. The mob has no right choosing who works and who doesn’t, and their command of the union is hurting everyone outside of the mob’s select few. The point of view in On The Waterfront is intriguing in that Terry could have been one of the mobsters, but instead met a woman that he fell in love with who wanted the workers to stand up for themselves. Because of this one woman that he meets, Edie, Terry changes sides completely, including giving up a prosperous future career of cheating men out of their money. The symbols in this film mainly include David and Goliath. Terry, a mere mortal yet semi-well connected worker singlehandedly takes on the Union God (Johnny Friendly). Terry took him down with a single pebble from a slingshot (testimony in a court hearing). The literary aspects of On the Waterfront are compelling and greatly enhance the film’s effectiveness and awesomeness.
The dramatic aspects on the other hand, were the only thing that even got close to letting down the film. The actors were, for the most part, quite convincing. Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy did a magnificent job playing a brave, but sometimes idiotic character. Karl Malden as Father Barry was a brave, charismatic priest who convinced the dockworkers to stand up for themselves. Lee J. Cobb played Johnny Friendly excellently. He must be a mob boss in real life for he was convincing beyond belief. Rod Steiger as Charley Malloy performed well as the older, less rebellious brother of Terry. He was a good brother in that, though he acted tough and mean, he was compassionate and caring when he wouldn’t be made fun of. Eva Marie Saint on the other hand performed poorly in her role as Edie Doyle. She was far too unemotional in the emotional scenes and overemotional in the unemotional scenes. In general, she was a negative factor for the movie, although she is quite good looking. But Pop Doyle, played by John Hamilton was a great character, playing the weak old man that still stood up for his rights. Finally, Pat Henning’s portrayal of Kayo was fantastic. I actually believed he was an old man working at the docks. In addition to actors, the costumes were quite exquisite. There was a high attention to detail, or lack of detail that encompasses the clothing worn by the poor at the time. All articles of clothing were fantastically designed for the characters. The make-up was also good. I’m certainly no expert when it comes to make-up, but one could not tell if someone was wearing make-up or not, except for Edie of course. The make-up that I did see looked good though. The set design and props were first class. I’m starting to get the feeling that the film was actually filmed in a city in New Jersey. Also, all of the props, since the setting was probably a real town, were excellent. Finally, the lighting was decent. Some scenes appeared too bright or too dark, but for the most part there was no lack in lighting. Shadows were created when needed, but the lighting did not significantly affect the film in my opinion.
The cinematic aspects of On the Waterfront were nearly spectacular. I say nearly because there was no scene that was especially awe inspiring like in some scifi adventure with shots of people flying around with jetpacks. But, every shot that I saw was good, none were at a bad angle, too far, or too close. The distance of the shots was next to perfect with catching what should be in the scene and nothing extra. It’s hard to understand scenes when there is a close-up but an item is missing because it is bigger. The same thing applies to longer shots than necessary. When too much can be seen in the background, it distracts the viewer from what is important. On the Waterfront did neither of these things. The Camera movements were good, following the characters without making me dizzy. I dislike movies where the camera moves too much and confuses me about where things are. The duration of shots was again quite well-done. No shots were overly long and that one showing Terry’s face when Kayo dies is absolutely perfect in length. Any longer and it would have been just another shot, but its length makes it stand out. The editing was good, although sometimes the transitions got boring. But hey, this is the fifties for peat-sake! Considering how not-100-years-old film was at the time, the editing is pretty good. Finally, the sound was not as good as I would have hoped for. It was decent music, but it was either too loud and distracting in emotional scenes, or too quiet during chase scenes. The music rarely seemed to fit what was going on in the movie, and thus On the Waterfront was weakened by it. In summary, the cinematic aspects of the film were well above average, but it failed to reach their full potential because of a few aspects.
On the Waterfront is a compelling film about “whistle blowing” and its benefits. Hmmmm, kind of reminds me of All My Sons! Who knew that Mrs. Burgess would chose a film that related to the play we just read? I did, and that’s why I am prepared to compare and contrast the two. To start, we have our two protagonists Keller and Terry. Keller just killed twenty-one people and should be in jail, but he blamed his innocent friend who was convicted of the crimes and imprisoned. Terry on the other hand had lured Joey to the rooftop to be, what he thought was questioning, murdered. Now the main difference between the two is that Terry is innocent and Keller is guilty. But what I’m sure you would like to hear is that the main ethical dilemma is whether family/reputation is more important than the lives of others/the community. If yes to the first one, you’d be a Keller (murderer). If yes to the second, you’d be a Terry (hero). I’m not sure exactly how Keller figured the lives of twenty-one pilots less important than his family of 4’s livelihood, but Terry had the right idea about doing what is right even if it means forsaking friends. Basically the similarities are that people blow their whistles in both All My Sons and in On the Waterfront. Each is a different example of the outcomes and reasons for “whistle blowing”
In termination of this review, I would most definitely recommend everyone to go see On the Waterfront for themselves. It is a fantastic film with a great cast, plotline, and cinematographers. Marlon Brando is a beast in this film and portrays his character like a really good actor, which he is. The plot is compelling and nearly forces one to pay attention throughout the film’s entirety. The camera shots, angles, and distances also aid the film is getting its message across by being easy on the eyes yet impossible not to pay attention to. There is one main theme in the film, being if one should follow their moral compass, or the traditions of the community in which they live. The longshoremen go to work each day and if questioned by the police, stick to D and D to ensure their safety from the mob. Until Terry comes along with the will to end it, the mob controls the union and keeps unfair amounts of everyone’s earnings. On the Waterfront is a fantastic film the whole family can enjoy. Go see it now!
The literary aspects of this film are appealing to me because they actually help the film to realize its full potential. The plot is an in-depth, interesting, twisted thing from a time before Hollywood’s gangster fad began. It tells a compelling story that both excites you, and forces you to mourn during scenes of tragic death. The characters are well thought up and have realistic emotions in proportion to what happens. They are deep and complex, while remaining simple to relate to. The setting is very appropriate, being approximately when the movie was filmed. It takes place in a New Jersey shipping town and the portrayals of city life are fantastic. The themes of this film were antagonizing and interesting at the same time. Seeing how Terry, though helping the dockworkers through whistle blowing, was shunned because of fear is difficult to watch. But on the other hand, it is good to see someone do something to change the depravity that exists at the docks. The mob has no right choosing who works and who doesn’t, and their command of the union is hurting everyone outside of the mob’s select few. The point of view in On The Waterfront is intriguing in that Terry could have been one of the mobsters, but instead met a woman that he fell in love with who wanted the workers to stand up for themselves. Because of this one woman that he meets, Edie, Terry changes sides completely, including giving up a prosperous future career of cheating men out of their money. The symbols in this film mainly include David and Goliath. Terry, a mere mortal yet semi-well connected worker singlehandedly takes on the Union God (Johnny Friendly). Terry took him down with a single pebble from a slingshot (testimony in a court hearing). The literary aspects of On the Waterfront are compelling and greatly enhance the film’s effectiveness and awesomeness.
The dramatic aspects on the other hand, were the only thing that even got close to letting down the film. The actors were, for the most part, quite convincing. Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy did a magnificent job playing a brave, but sometimes idiotic character. Karl Malden as Father Barry was a brave, charismatic priest who convinced the dockworkers to stand up for themselves. Lee J. Cobb played Johnny Friendly excellently. He must be a mob boss in real life for he was convincing beyond belief. Rod Steiger as Charley Malloy performed well as the older, less rebellious brother of Terry. He was a good brother in that, though he acted tough and mean, he was compassionate and caring when he wouldn’t be made fun of. Eva Marie Saint on the other hand performed poorly in her role as Edie Doyle. She was far too unemotional in the emotional scenes and overemotional in the unemotional scenes. In general, she was a negative factor for the movie, although she is quite good looking. But Pop Doyle, played by John Hamilton was a great character, playing the weak old man that still stood up for his rights. Finally, Pat Henning’s portrayal of Kayo was fantastic. I actually believed he was an old man working at the docks. In addition to actors, the costumes were quite exquisite. There was a high attention to detail, or lack of detail that encompasses the clothing worn by the poor at the time. All articles of clothing were fantastically designed for the characters. The make-up was also good. I’m certainly no expert when it comes to make-up, but one could not tell if someone was wearing make-up or not, except for Edie of course. The make-up that I did see looked good though. The set design and props were first class. I’m starting to get the feeling that the film was actually filmed in a city in New Jersey. Also, all of the props, since the setting was probably a real town, were excellent. Finally, the lighting was decent. Some scenes appeared too bright or too dark, but for the most part there was no lack in lighting. Shadows were created when needed, but the lighting did not significantly affect the film in my opinion.
The cinematic aspects of On the Waterfront were nearly spectacular. I say nearly because there was no scene that was especially awe inspiring like in some scifi adventure with shots of people flying around with jetpacks. But, every shot that I saw was good, none were at a bad angle, too far, or too close. The distance of the shots was next to perfect with catching what should be in the scene and nothing extra. It’s hard to understand scenes when there is a close-up but an item is missing because it is bigger. The same thing applies to longer shots than necessary. When too much can be seen in the background, it distracts the viewer from what is important. On the Waterfront did neither of these things. The Camera movements were good, following the characters without making me dizzy. I dislike movies where the camera moves too much and confuses me about where things are. The duration of shots was again quite well-done. No shots were overly long and that one showing Terry’s face when Kayo dies is absolutely perfect in length. Any longer and it would have been just another shot, but its length makes it stand out. The editing was good, although sometimes the transitions got boring. But hey, this is the fifties for peat-sake! Considering how not-100-years-old film was at the time, the editing is pretty good. Finally, the sound was not as good as I would have hoped for. It was decent music, but it was either too loud and distracting in emotional scenes, or too quiet during chase scenes. The music rarely seemed to fit what was going on in the movie, and thus On the Waterfront was weakened by it. In summary, the cinematic aspects of the film were well above average, but it failed to reach their full potential because of a few aspects.
On the Waterfront is a compelling film about “whistle blowing” and its benefits. Hmmmm, kind of reminds me of All My Sons! Who knew that Mrs. Burgess would chose a film that related to the play we just read? I did, and that’s why I am prepared to compare and contrast the two. To start, we have our two protagonists Keller and Terry. Keller just killed twenty-one people and should be in jail, but he blamed his innocent friend who was convicted of the crimes and imprisoned. Terry on the other hand had lured Joey to the rooftop to be, what he thought was questioning, murdered. Now the main difference between the two is that Terry is innocent and Keller is guilty. But what I’m sure you would like to hear is that the main ethical dilemma is whether family/reputation is more important than the lives of others/the community. If yes to the first one, you’d be a Keller (murderer). If yes to the second, you’d be a Terry (hero). I’m not sure exactly how Keller figured the lives of twenty-one pilots less important than his family of 4’s livelihood, but Terry had the right idea about doing what is right even if it means forsaking friends. Basically the similarities are that people blow their whistles in both All My Sons and in On the Waterfront. Each is a different example of the outcomes and reasons for “whistle blowing”
In termination of this review, I would most definitely recommend everyone to go see On the Waterfront for themselves. It is a fantastic film with a great cast, plotline, and cinematographers. Marlon Brando is a beast in this film and portrays his character like a really good actor, which he is. The plot is compelling and nearly forces one to pay attention throughout the film’s entirety. The camera shots, angles, and distances also aid the film is getting its message across by being easy on the eyes yet impossible not to pay attention to. There is one main theme in the film, being if one should follow their moral compass, or the traditions of the community in which they live. The longshoremen go to work each day and if questioned by the police, stick to D and D to ensure their safety from the mob. Until Terry comes along with the will to end it, the mob controls the union and keeps unfair amounts of everyone’s earnings. On the Waterfront is a fantastic film the whole family can enjoy. Go see it now!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Post B #3
Dear Stephen,
Your views on religion are indeed hysterical. I must agree that, since I am Christian, it is the true religion. But, I also think that others should be respected and awknowledged even though we may not agree. If someone draws a picture of Jesus, people may critic it or just say that it is everywhere. But if someone were to draw a picture of Mohammed, a mere profit, the Muslim world would descend into chaos and the artist would be blow to smitherenes. I do not say this to critisize muslims, but I am pointing out how both you, and the majority of americans would expect reactions to pictures of religious figures. I also have noticed how when Christians go to war, the fact that God is on their side has allowed them to either win militarily or through economy or society. To be blatant about it, Christians have never lost.
In addition to this, I have noticed how you say protatinism is heresay. I must disagree with you on this because I am Lutheran, but I understand how you feel about different sects of Christianity. I would also love to see one united religion, and I don't understand why the average person would care about the swapping of a word in the nicene creed or the Lord's prayer. I honestly doubt they do care. Your poem on the ACLU is hillarious. I'm sure it really sticks a pole up the media's rear!
I love how America is supposed to be a free country religious-wise, but people that are Christian do not treat people of their own religon as well as others..... I do not understand this at all. Why should other religions be allowed to practise in public schools while Christianity is not, and why are people not forced to say the Pledge of Allegiance! I shouldn't matter whether or not it mentions God! It is a pledge of allegiance to your country that you should love. If you do not love it, move to China or Russia. That, or do something about it without breaking the rules the Constitution has layed out. Also, Christians have free speach too, so why can't we pray in school?Neither the First nor the Fourteenth Amendment was intended to stifle all rapport between religion and government and thus the majority of Americans should be allowed to pray in public!
Your views on religion are indeed hysterical. I must agree that, since I am Christian, it is the true religion. But, I also think that others should be respected and awknowledged even though we may not agree. If someone draws a picture of Jesus, people may critic it or just say that it is everywhere. But if someone were to draw a picture of Mohammed, a mere profit, the Muslim world would descend into chaos and the artist would be blow to smitherenes. I do not say this to critisize muslims, but I am pointing out how both you, and the majority of americans would expect reactions to pictures of religious figures. I also have noticed how when Christians go to war, the fact that God is on their side has allowed them to either win militarily or through economy or society. To be blatant about it, Christians have never lost.
In addition to this, I have noticed how you say protatinism is heresay. I must disagree with you on this because I am Lutheran, but I understand how you feel about different sects of Christianity. I would also love to see one united religion, and I don't understand why the average person would care about the swapping of a word in the nicene creed or the Lord's prayer. I honestly doubt they do care. Your poem on the ACLU is hillarious. I'm sure it really sticks a pole up the media's rear!
I love how America is supposed to be a free country religious-wise, but people that are Christian do not treat people of their own religon as well as others..... I do not understand this at all. Why should other religions be allowed to practise in public schools while Christianity is not, and why are people not forced to say the Pledge of Allegiance! I shouldn't matter whether or not it mentions God! It is a pledge of allegiance to your country that you should love. If you do not love it, move to China or Russia. That, or do something about it without breaking the rules the Constitution has layed out. Also, Christians have free speach too, so why can't we pray in school?Neither the First nor the Fourteenth Amendment was intended to stifle all rapport between religion and government and thus the majority of Americans should be allowed to pray in public!
Post A #3
Vocab:
- Windfall: An unexpected gain, piece of good fortune, or the like. Noun (51).
- Omnipotent: Almighty or infinite in power, as God. Adjective (52).
Figurative Language:
- Metaphore: Plus a whole bunch of magical beings based in different parts of nature? That's not a religion, that's Pokemon" (58). This passage is comparing 'a whole bunch of magical beings' to Pokemon without using like or as. Very metiphorical.
- Symbol: "A Visit From St. Secular" "'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; Mamma in her herchief, and I in the nude, Were shocked that our holiday had been misconstrued, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what wwas the matter. (Mind you I'm still nude.) Out to the lawn in my glory, I flew. To see my manger disassembled by the ACLU" (63). This is an example of imagery, because it is Stephen Colbert's summation of America today. Separation of Chruch and State does not mean no public religion...
- Irony: "If a guy wants to shoot himself up with hormones or chimp sperm, that's his buisness" (73). This is irony because it is ironic that Stephen says this, mainly because of his views on Government intervention...
Quote:
- "Islam is a great and true religion revealed in the Holy Koran which was dictated by the angel Gabriel to the final prophet Mohammed, Blessing and Peace Be Upon Him" (60). I think this quote is significant because it shows how we are supposed to treat Muslims these days, even if one does not like them. Hillary doesn't care about how Christians feel, as long as Muslims are treated like royalty.
Theme:
- This section of the book is mostly about how Colbert views religion and sports; Christianity rules all and steroids are key.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Post B #2
Dear Stephen Colbert,
I truely appreciate your views on animals. Peta must be sending you complaint letters daily. Animal rights seem to be publicized often in today's society, but I personally doubt that too many people care. You book makes me think the opposite; that people truely think animals should be dominated and mistreated! How interesting. I believe that your views in your book are probably not your realy oppinions, but they are quite drole. Your book is funny and I often find myself unable to keep from laughing.
You stated that, "I remember growing up, old man Schmidt would sit in that rocking shair of his like he was manning a guard tower at a Nazi preison camp. One step onto his immaculate "Master Lawn" was enough to trigger the old man's shriek of "Auf Meine Grass! Das ist Verboten"" (26). This quote is hillarious! Not only is it terrible unpolitiacally correct, but it is quite inginuitive. I makes me think of that one joke, "My grandpa died in the holocaust; he fell off a watch tower". It has that kind of awful yet funny aura around it.
Also, talking about how people have "Master Lawns" seems very american. I don't understand why people pride themselves so much on their lawns. Do they have nothing else in life going for them? Well, nonetheless it is a very common thing today. Finally, the word Verboten is awsome and there is a sign in Herr Baron's class that says no weed aloud in german, and I always think of that when I hear "verboten". Well that is all for now Stephen, I'll make sure to write you again next week.
I truely appreciate your views on animals. Peta must be sending you complaint letters daily. Animal rights seem to be publicized often in today's society, but I personally doubt that too many people care. You book makes me think the opposite; that people truely think animals should be dominated and mistreated! How interesting. I believe that your views in your book are probably not your realy oppinions, but they are quite drole. Your book is funny and I often find myself unable to keep from laughing.
You stated that, "I remember growing up, old man Schmidt would sit in that rocking shair of his like he was manning a guard tower at a Nazi preison camp. One step onto his immaculate "Master Lawn" was enough to trigger the old man's shriek of "Auf Meine Grass! Das ist Verboten"" (26). This quote is hillarious! Not only is it terrible unpolitiacally correct, but it is quite inginuitive. I makes me think of that one joke, "My grandpa died in the holocaust; he fell off a watch tower". It has that kind of awful yet funny aura around it.
Also, talking about how people have "Master Lawns" seems very american. I don't understand why people pride themselves so much on their lawns. Do they have nothing else in life going for them? Well, nonetheless it is a very common thing today. Finally, the word Verboten is awsome and there is a sign in Herr Baron's class that says no weed aloud in german, and I always think of that when I hear "verboten". Well that is all for now Stephen, I'll make sure to write you again next week.
Post A #2
Vocab
- Manifesto: A public declaration of intentions, opinions, objectives, or motives, as one issued by a government, sovereign, or organization. Plural noun (34).
- Perpetuate: To preserve or make available (testimony) for later use at a trial by means of deposition esp. when the evidence so gathered would be otherwise unavailable or lost. Transitive verbe (41).
Figurative Language
- Irony: "The first thing I'm going to do is have a steak" (41). This is ironic because it is comming from a hindu cow. So, the cow thinks that when it becomes a human, it will eat a steak. A cow eating steak... Very ironic indeed.
- Metaphore: "Religion is the cornerstone of civilisation" (45). This is a metaphore because it is comparing religion to the cornerstone of civilisation without using like or as.
- simile: "Think of "Judeo-Chrisitan" like "Sears, Roebuck & Co." -Judaism is Roebuck" (47). This is a simile because Judeo-Chrsitian is compared to Sears, Roebuck & Co. using the word like. Only, Judaism is the Roebuck.
Quote
- "My God can beat up your God" (50). This quote is significant because it explains Stephen's views on religion; Christianity pwns all.
Theme
- An emerging theme in this book is that pets should be dominated by humans.
Mrs. Burgess's Instructions
Post A
- 2 vocabulary words that you found in the book (with page numbers). Define them in the blog.
- 3 examples of figurative language (irony, personification, imagery, metaphor, symbol, simile, onomatopoeia, etc.) and how you know it is that literary element.
- Pick a quote from the reading and explain its significance (include page number).
- Write a sentence in which you describe one emerging theme of the book.
Post B A
thoughtful response to the book of approximately 250 words. You must cite the page you're referring to as well. Some possible ways to respond to literature include: pick a quote and comment on its significance make connections to the book (self, text, world, media), analyze the protagonist (or author if it’s nonfiction), pretend you're writing a letter to the author or main character, etc. There are many many ways you can do this.
- 2 vocabulary words that you found in the book (with page numbers). Define them in the blog.
- 3 examples of figurative language (irony, personification, imagery, metaphor, symbol, simile, onomatopoeia, etc.) and how you know it is that literary element.
- Pick a quote from the reading and explain its significance (include page number).
- Write a sentence in which you describe one emerging theme of the book.
Post B A
thoughtful response to the book of approximately 250 words. You must cite the page you're referring to as well. Some possible ways to respond to literature include: pick a quote and comment on its significance make connections to the book (self, text, world, media), analyze the protagonist (or author if it’s nonfiction), pretend you're writing a letter to the author or main character, etc. There are many many ways you can do this.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Post B #1
Dear Stephen Colbert,
I respect your ideas, and sadly, agree with quite a few of them. This book has been very political thus far, and I know that your views, at least in character, are largely conservative. I am the same way. I do not lean totally right, but for the most part I do. Also, your views seem to be different than those voiced by most people in the US at the moment, but then again you have talked about how noisy and complaintive liberals are. Also, the media seems to be very liberal and your ideas clash with theirs often.
You seem to be very critical of many liberal ideas, namely welfare, social security, and gay marriage. I understand why you think that welfare is bad, people that don't have jobs just sit around all day watching TV and living off welfare. Then your views social security are understandable, but I think the main reason it is bad is that there are not enough young people to pay for it. If there were enough children being had, then it wouldn't be such a problem. You seem to think that it is a terrible idea no matter what.
You also rip on the elderly, which is awfully funny. But, it is also kind of mean... Besides steal your money and look weird, what have the elderly done to you? Anyways, I also think that your jokes are hillarious and that your views on parenting are comical beyond belief. You truely are a conservative funnyman.
I respect your ideas, and sadly, agree with quite a few of them. This book has been very political thus far, and I know that your views, at least in character, are largely conservative. I am the same way. I do not lean totally right, but for the most part I do. Also, your views seem to be different than those voiced by most people in the US at the moment, but then again you have talked about how noisy and complaintive liberals are. Also, the media seems to be very liberal and your ideas clash with theirs often.
You seem to be very critical of many liberal ideas, namely welfare, social security, and gay marriage. I understand why you think that welfare is bad, people that don't have jobs just sit around all day watching TV and living off welfare. Then your views social security are understandable, but I think the main reason it is bad is that there are not enough young people to pay for it. If there were enough children being had, then it wouldn't be such a problem. You seem to think that it is a terrible idea no matter what.
You also rip on the elderly, which is awfully funny. But, it is also kind of mean... Besides steal your money and look weird, what have the elderly done to you? Anyways, I also think that your jokes are hillarious and that your views on parenting are comical beyond belief. You truely are a conservative funnyman.
Post A #1 again, different book
Vocab
- Corollary: An immediate consequence or easily drawn conclusion. noun, (8).
- Deftly: Dexterous; nimble; skillful; clever: deft hands; a deft mechanic. adverb, (15).
Figurative Language
- Imagery: "The time your child spends trying to figure them (the rules) out is time he won't be stapling firecrackers to the neighbor's dog" (11). This is imagery because it paints a vivid picture of this action in my mind.
- Metaphore: "Divorce is maritial welfare" (14). This is a metaphore because it compares divorce to maritial welfare without using like or as.
- Simile: "They look like lizards" (22). This is a simile because it uses the word like to compare old people and lizards.
Quote
- "One of Pop's most important jobs is protecting his little family. That's why he needs to sleep with that 9mm under his pillow. And pack it with hollow point bullets. At the least sign of movement in his castle past 8PM, he should wake up firing. Let God, Allah, or Hanuman the monkey god sort them out, am I right?" (8). This quote is significant because it is funny, and the whole book is funny. To an extent, this book is a joke, so I thought this small paragraph might summarize the book at this point.
Theme
- The theme of this book so far is Colbert's views on America and its society.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Post B #5
Dear Anthony,
You are overcomming your addictions and are becoming the health, both physically and mentally, person that I'm sure you are striving to be. You are having more fun that ever in your band, and you are creating some of your best music ever. You are a better singer when you are clean, and I'm glad that you are struggling to keep it that way. Your commitment to your fans and the music you play is inspiring, and your selfless acts of free nude performance are, well, nice... You are beginning to mix and meet with people that have very interesting views on life, that, sadly, are much more agreeable that your old one used to be. These people have helped you come along in your drug-free life, and to understand your fellow band members better.
Anthony's new appreciation for life is seen since he got clean, just like Lindsay Lohan's i think. Since (if) she was in rehab, she probably was, she is now looking at the world in a new light because even though she may still be on drugs, she probably wasn't for the time that she spent in rehab. I am also viewing the world differently, because as I get older, I understand more that I must help others and be gracious in defeat. Anthony i never defeated persay, but he is getting older and his point of view is obviously changing.
"Every time I'd be thinking, 'I have to keep,' I'd remember, 'No, you gotta give away instead'" (273). Anthony is continuing to learn how helping others is more important than helping yourself because it makes you feel better.
You are overcomming your addictions and are becoming the health, both physically and mentally, person that I'm sure you are striving to be. You are having more fun that ever in your band, and you are creating some of your best music ever. You are a better singer when you are clean, and I'm glad that you are struggling to keep it that way. Your commitment to your fans and the music you play is inspiring, and your selfless acts of free nude performance are, well, nice... You are beginning to mix and meet with people that have very interesting views on life, that, sadly, are much more agreeable that your old one used to be. These people have helped you come along in your drug-free life, and to understand your fellow band members better.
Anthony's new appreciation for life is seen since he got clean, just like Lindsay Lohan's i think. Since (if) she was in rehab, she probably was, she is now looking at the world in a new light because even though she may still be on drugs, she probably wasn't for the time that she spent in rehab. I am also viewing the world differently, because as I get older, I understand more that I must help others and be gracious in defeat. Anthony i never defeated persay, but he is getting older and his point of view is obviously changing.
"Every time I'd be thinking, 'I have to keep,' I'd remember, 'No, you gotta give away instead'" (273). Anthony is continuing to learn how helping others is more important than helping yourself because it makes you feel better.
Post A #5
Vocab
- Osmosis: A gradual, often unconscious process of assimilation or absorption, noun (258).
- Proviso: a clause in a statute, contract, or the like, by which a condition is introduced, noun (260).
Appeals
- For a costume party, "All of us agreed that we would attend the party in matching costumes, which consisted of a huge rubber strap-on dildo and nothing else" (258). I assume this is a logical appeal, because it really makes you wonder why somebody would go to a costume with a certain bodypart totally visable. These guys must be insane, because they all went and ended up playing on stage with Jane's Addiction in their "costumes".
- "I finally bought her a plane ticket so she could go model in Italy, and that was the end of our relationship" (261). This is a semi-rought time for Anthony because he is just breaking up with another girlfriend. Thus, this is an emotional appeal. Anthony was glad in some ways though, because their relationship ended badly, and Carmen was creating a lot of chaos.
- Even though things were going well creatively, I began to feel like the outsider in the band, because part of Flea and John's new bond was their mutual appreciatation of pot. This is another emotional appeal because Anthony feels like an outsider and is sad. He is trying to stay clean at the moment, and by necesity is seperating himself from his bandmates because of their drug-use.
Quote
- "I was busting on that mike, going, 'Give it away, give it away, give it away,' and Flea was flying down the length of his bass, and Chad was laughing hysterically, and John was searching for his spot on the canvas to put his guitar part, and we just didn't stop" (273). This quote is significant because it tells how during a jam, the Chili Peppers came up with one of their most popular songs. I is quite a funny story, and is very interesting.
Theme
- The theme at the moment is how they are growing as a band while they grow fortunes. They are starting to become fairly well known after Mother's Milk, and are commencing to put Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magik together. Their first hugh record is in the making.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Post B #4
Dear Anthony,
You are changing as I continue to read your memoir. I congratulate you on overcoming your addictions and on realizing that a drugf-ree life is a better life. You are fixing your relationships, building new ones, saving money, and becoming a more reliable member in the band. In the past you realized that drugs are bad and that they were having a big effect on your relationships, but I doubt that you knew at the time how much better things would be if you were clean. You have changed for the better, but I don't know how much faith I have that you will stay clean. You have not been able to comit to long term things in the past, let's see if you can now.
Anthony is getting better, just like me. I am getting better at math because I have an A, and Anthony is getting better with keeping clean, and he would have an A at the moment since he is clean. Sadly, rehab today has a bad connotation because the media portrays the people that go there as scum that are better off dead. But in reality, they are people just like you and me that made a bad decistion and are unable to stop using. Anthony has the same thought about rehab, that he was too good for it, but really he fit in perfectly.
"I got on the plane to go home, riding a whole new wave of enthusiasm for my life. I decided to write a song about my monthlong experiance of going to meetings, getting clean, and winning this battle of addiction" (200). This quote explains how Anthony felt when he was finally clean for the first time. This quote, to an extent, explains the entire rest of his "first sobriety", until he unfortunately lets loose and goes on a drug rampage that lasts a few years.
You are changing as I continue to read your memoir. I congratulate you on overcoming your addictions and on realizing that a drugf-ree life is a better life. You are fixing your relationships, building new ones, saving money, and becoming a more reliable member in the band. In the past you realized that drugs are bad and that they were having a big effect on your relationships, but I doubt that you knew at the time how much better things would be if you were clean. You have changed for the better, but I don't know how much faith I have that you will stay clean. You have not been able to comit to long term things in the past, let's see if you can now.
Anthony is getting better, just like me. I am getting better at math because I have an A, and Anthony is getting better with keeping clean, and he would have an A at the moment since he is clean. Sadly, rehab today has a bad connotation because the media portrays the people that go there as scum that are better off dead. But in reality, they are people just like you and me that made a bad decistion and are unable to stop using. Anthony has the same thought about rehab, that he was too good for it, but really he fit in perfectly.
"I got on the plane to go home, riding a whole new wave of enthusiasm for my life. I decided to write a song about my monthlong experiance of going to meetings, getting clean, and winning this battle of addiction" (200). This quote explains how Anthony felt when he was finally clean for the first time. This quote, to an extent, explains the entire rest of his "first sobriety", until he unfortunately lets loose and goes on a drug rampage that lasts a few years.
Post A #4
Vocab
- Platonic: of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Plato or his doctrines; adjective (190).
- Methadone: a synthetic narcotic, C21H28ClNO, similar to morphine but effective orally, used in the relief of pain and as a heroin substitute in the treatment of heroin addiction; noun (193).
Appeals
- "'I'm going to call my mom, go back to Michigan, and get on methadone,' I told Kim" (193). This is a logical appeal because Anthony is trying hard to get off of drugs, and he has finally made the decision that could dramatically change his life. Anthony's drug usage at the time was getting more severe daily, and unless he changed soon, he would have ended up pretty bad.
- "She made arrangements, and the next day the ticket arrived, but we couldn't stop getting high. The day of the flight came, but we had been getting high all night, and when it was time to go to the airport, we were incapable of getting it together" (194). This is an emotional appeal because Anthony is telling how he scared and dissapointed his mother by continuously not show up for his flight home to get clean.
- "But as I sat in that meeting, I felt something in the room that made sense to me. It was nothing but a bunch of guys like me, helping one another get off drugs and find a new way of life (197). This must be am emotional appeal because the fact that everyone there was a recovering drug addict must have truly changed Anthony's perspective on rehab. Before this, he did not rightly understand what rehab was and how it works, but now he begins to understand.
Quote
- "'What do you mean, you don't get high?' Flea asked. 'You're not doing anything? Not even pot?'" This quote is significant because Anthony is off drugs for the first time in his life since he started using, and he feels great. This event foreshadows to an extent what will happen during the rest of Anthony's life; attempting to stay clean, while have the urge to get high one last time.
Theme
- The theme at the moment is still Anthony's struggle with drugs, but now he is winning and is no longer possesed by them. Once he gets clean, he stays clean for quite a while, and is better able to perform both as an individual and as a bandmember.
My Film as Literature Review
Remington
Mrs. Burgess
Enriched English 10
16 October 2007
The 400 Blows Film as Literature Review
The 400 Blows, the story of famous director Francois Truffaut’s life, is a very touching film about an adolescent boy who takes to mischief and rebellion. Francois Truffaut’s childhood is made into a plot that any director could make into an award winning movie. Sadly enough, Antoine, the main character, grew up in a very difficult household with parents that didn’t love him. The film was very interesting, with a great plotline and good actors. The incessant background music, however, is more distracting than effective when listened to for the film’s entire 99 minutes. But overall, the film was effective in getting its point across and giving a preview of life in 1940s France. It also delivered the feelings and emotions that Francois probably felt as a child. The thing that I disliked the most about the film was most definitely the music. The repetitive tune that merely changed pitch throughout was infuriating. That and the film’s seemingly out of place ending truly ruined the film experience for me. Otherwise, I thought that it was very well-made and truly a masterpiece of the time from France.
Literary aspects are constantly present because in essence, they are the movie. In The 400 Blows, the literary aspects are very well done and thus the film benefits. The plot is obvious; a boy named Antoine, who has terrible parents and only one friend, tries to make his life better, but is inhibited by an awfully biased teacher. He gets in huge trouble at school, runs away from home, steals his step-father’s typewriter to sell, but is caught while returning it, and is sent to a detention center from which he runs away. The characters include Antoine Doinel, Gilberte Doinel, Julian Doinel, the teacher, René, and others. The setting is, as far as I can tell, supposed to be in early 1940s Paris, but the Nazis are not occupying it at the moment so maybe I am wrong. It is early fall, and the film takes place over multiple days, maybe even weeks. The theme is apparent; rebellion. Antoine is always trying to find ways in which he can rebel and be a nonconformist. The point of view is how Antoine always has to do what he is told by people that don’t seem to understand his thought process or what he is going through. A symbol throughout seems to be the Michelin guide. It seems to me like it is trying to say why his parents don’t trust him. Antoine stole the Michelin guide and got away with it. I’m positive that his parents know he took it, which is the way with lots of things throughout the film; Antoine’s parents don’t trust him. In summary, the literary aspects of The 400 Blows are very well done and their clarity allows fantastic comprehension.
The dramatic elements of The 400 Blows are mainly actors, lighting, and set design. Makeup is used sparsely, and the costumes are more like everyday clothing. First of all, Jean-Pierre Léaud performs fantastically in his role as Antoine. He is so convincing in his role that I wonder if he is a rebellious child in real life. He was definitely a good choice by Truffaut, and he looks just like a rebellious child in the 1940s would look. Albert Rémi, on the other hand, does a fairly poor job. He played Julian Doinel, a character who almost seemed irrelevant in the film. He appeared to be having trouble playing the part of the nonchalant father. This is because he did not do well playing his part in that he was too happy all of the time, even when things went awry and he sent his son to what is basically prison. He should not have been cast in that role. The final actor/actress that I will evaluate is Claire Maurier. She did, what to me looked like, an astounding job acting the demon mother who was cheating, unloving, and unforgiving of Antoine. She was casted perfectly for the role and performs her role flawlessly. Next, the lighting is very important. It depicts the mood of the film during the times in which it is used. When the lighting is dimmer, Antoine is depressed and lonely, and when the lighting is bright, he is happy and in a fun place. The lighting greatly affects the film in a positive way, and helps people to interpret what is supposed to be happening. Finally, the set design was ingenious to an extent. It is ingenious in that it looks just like Paris would have back then, but the extent is that it was filmed back then and the set is probably just a more residential area of Paris. Awesomely, the set does make the film look like it could be happening in everyday 1940ish Paris. The dramatic aspects of the film are irreplaceable, and the film obviously benefits from them.
Sadly, I thought that the cinematic aspects of the film were merely mediocre. They all seemed to be the same throughout, and never changing; leaving the film with a more repetitive feel than is desired. The photography was okay. The camera was not wavy or anything, but the shots seemed to always be the same. The shots did differ, but merely to show the scenery or an object. Otherwise, it looked to me like all medium shots. The camera angle was at eye level, or maybe slightly higher. Too bad it rarely, if ever, changed. The pan was used more that might have been necessary. Tilts were rare, and the only tracking shot that I recall is at the end during the running scene. The shot durations were varying in length, but the so called “famous shot” at the end of the final scene was oddly uninspiring. I felt as if the film left me hanging (good thing I did some research and found that there are multiple sequels), which affected my thoughts about the film in a negative manner. The cut was the only editing shot used, and it got old fast. Finally, the sound was quite infuriating. The same tune was played over and over again in different pitches and tones. I could not comprehend why, but it was as if that song was stuck in Truffaut’s head and he used it in the film because he could not think of anything else since his head was so clouded. There is voice-over narration when his parents are fighting and he is lying in bed, and the dialogue is pleasant. In conclusion, some cinematic elements are great and others are poor, thus they shall together be labeled as mediocre.
The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy are actually quite similar. First of all, they are both memoirs. They both give a great feel for what it is like to be the main character and go through all of the trials and tribulations that children of that age often suffer through. In addition, they both focus on children that are the same age, at least for a time. Since the characters are both alike in many ways, both have overseers (parents/grandparents and aunts) that hold an iron grip over the household. Both feel the need to work and provide for themselves, and both have few friends at school. They detest spending time at home and they like to travel to their own worlds through the arts, be it film or literature. They are both naïve in that they don’t understand the ways in which the world operates, race issues or the importance of schooling. Finally, Richard and Antoine are both incredibly rebellious. They decide what they want to do and when to do it. Richard is free to do whatever he wants most of the time, while Antoine often skips class and runs away from home. Richard and Antoine are reasonably similar, but not so much as to be twins.
This film was very thought provoking and for those who enjoy foreign language films and reading subtitles for an hour and thirty-nine minutes, I would recommend it. Also, you must have a high tolerance for annoying music. I do not believe that the way in which we watched it truly showed how the film comes together in its full form. I think that if it were watched all at once, that the repetitive music and the subtitles would decrease one’s interest in the film. For the most part, I think that I would recommend this film for people to watch on TV; it is worth your time because of the interesting plot and great acting by some of the actors/actresses. But, I do not think that it is worth your money. If you do not find it on TV, then don’t rush to the video store to waste your money on a French film that came out fifty years ago. In conclusion, I would recommend others interested in foreign films to keep an eye open for it on television, but not to hurry and rent or buy it at a video store.
Mrs. Burgess
Enriched English 10
16 October 2007
The 400 Blows Film as Literature Review
The 400 Blows, the story of famous director Francois Truffaut’s life, is a very touching film about an adolescent boy who takes to mischief and rebellion. Francois Truffaut’s childhood is made into a plot that any director could make into an award winning movie. Sadly enough, Antoine, the main character, grew up in a very difficult household with parents that didn’t love him. The film was very interesting, with a great plotline and good actors. The incessant background music, however, is more distracting than effective when listened to for the film’s entire 99 minutes. But overall, the film was effective in getting its point across and giving a preview of life in 1940s France. It also delivered the feelings and emotions that Francois probably felt as a child. The thing that I disliked the most about the film was most definitely the music. The repetitive tune that merely changed pitch throughout was infuriating. That and the film’s seemingly out of place ending truly ruined the film experience for me. Otherwise, I thought that it was very well-made and truly a masterpiece of the time from France.
Literary aspects are constantly present because in essence, they are the movie. In The 400 Blows, the literary aspects are very well done and thus the film benefits. The plot is obvious; a boy named Antoine, who has terrible parents and only one friend, tries to make his life better, but is inhibited by an awfully biased teacher. He gets in huge trouble at school, runs away from home, steals his step-father’s typewriter to sell, but is caught while returning it, and is sent to a detention center from which he runs away. The characters include Antoine Doinel, Gilberte Doinel, Julian Doinel, the teacher, René, and others. The setting is, as far as I can tell, supposed to be in early 1940s Paris, but the Nazis are not occupying it at the moment so maybe I am wrong. It is early fall, and the film takes place over multiple days, maybe even weeks. The theme is apparent; rebellion. Antoine is always trying to find ways in which he can rebel and be a nonconformist. The point of view is how Antoine always has to do what he is told by people that don’t seem to understand his thought process or what he is going through. A symbol throughout seems to be the Michelin guide. It seems to me like it is trying to say why his parents don’t trust him. Antoine stole the Michelin guide and got away with it. I’m positive that his parents know he took it, which is the way with lots of things throughout the film; Antoine’s parents don’t trust him. In summary, the literary aspects of The 400 Blows are very well done and their clarity allows fantastic comprehension.
The dramatic elements of The 400 Blows are mainly actors, lighting, and set design. Makeup is used sparsely, and the costumes are more like everyday clothing. First of all, Jean-Pierre Léaud performs fantastically in his role as Antoine. He is so convincing in his role that I wonder if he is a rebellious child in real life. He was definitely a good choice by Truffaut, and he looks just like a rebellious child in the 1940s would look. Albert Rémi, on the other hand, does a fairly poor job. He played Julian Doinel, a character who almost seemed irrelevant in the film. He appeared to be having trouble playing the part of the nonchalant father. This is because he did not do well playing his part in that he was too happy all of the time, even when things went awry and he sent his son to what is basically prison. He should not have been cast in that role. The final actor/actress that I will evaluate is Claire Maurier. She did, what to me looked like, an astounding job acting the demon mother who was cheating, unloving, and unforgiving of Antoine. She was casted perfectly for the role and performs her role flawlessly. Next, the lighting is very important. It depicts the mood of the film during the times in which it is used. When the lighting is dimmer, Antoine is depressed and lonely, and when the lighting is bright, he is happy and in a fun place. The lighting greatly affects the film in a positive way, and helps people to interpret what is supposed to be happening. Finally, the set design was ingenious to an extent. It is ingenious in that it looks just like Paris would have back then, but the extent is that it was filmed back then and the set is probably just a more residential area of Paris. Awesomely, the set does make the film look like it could be happening in everyday 1940ish Paris. The dramatic aspects of the film are irreplaceable, and the film obviously benefits from them.
Sadly, I thought that the cinematic aspects of the film were merely mediocre. They all seemed to be the same throughout, and never changing; leaving the film with a more repetitive feel than is desired. The photography was okay. The camera was not wavy or anything, but the shots seemed to always be the same. The shots did differ, but merely to show the scenery or an object. Otherwise, it looked to me like all medium shots. The camera angle was at eye level, or maybe slightly higher. Too bad it rarely, if ever, changed. The pan was used more that might have been necessary. Tilts were rare, and the only tracking shot that I recall is at the end during the running scene. The shot durations were varying in length, but the so called “famous shot” at the end of the final scene was oddly uninspiring. I felt as if the film left me hanging (good thing I did some research and found that there are multiple sequels), which affected my thoughts about the film in a negative manner. The cut was the only editing shot used, and it got old fast. Finally, the sound was quite infuriating. The same tune was played over and over again in different pitches and tones. I could not comprehend why, but it was as if that song was stuck in Truffaut’s head and he used it in the film because he could not think of anything else since his head was so clouded. There is voice-over narration when his parents are fighting and he is lying in bed, and the dialogue is pleasant. In conclusion, some cinematic elements are great and others are poor, thus they shall together be labeled as mediocre.
The 400 Blows and Richard Wright’s Black Boy are actually quite similar. First of all, they are both memoirs. They both give a great feel for what it is like to be the main character and go through all of the trials and tribulations that children of that age often suffer through. In addition, they both focus on children that are the same age, at least for a time. Since the characters are both alike in many ways, both have overseers (parents/grandparents and aunts) that hold an iron grip over the household. Both feel the need to work and provide for themselves, and both have few friends at school. They detest spending time at home and they like to travel to their own worlds through the arts, be it film or literature. They are both naïve in that they don’t understand the ways in which the world operates, race issues or the importance of schooling. Finally, Richard and Antoine are both incredibly rebellious. They decide what they want to do and when to do it. Richard is free to do whatever he wants most of the time, while Antoine often skips class and runs away from home. Richard and Antoine are reasonably similar, but not so much as to be twins.
This film was very thought provoking and for those who enjoy foreign language films and reading subtitles for an hour and thirty-nine minutes, I would recommend it. Also, you must have a high tolerance for annoying music. I do not believe that the way in which we watched it truly showed how the film comes together in its full form. I think that if it were watched all at once, that the repetitive music and the subtitles would decrease one’s interest in the film. For the most part, I think that I would recommend this film for people to watch on TV; it is worth your time because of the interesting plot and great acting by some of the actors/actresses. But, I do not think that it is worth your money. If you do not find it on TV, then don’t rush to the video store to waste your money on a French film that came out fifty years ago. In conclusion, I would recommend others interested in foreign films to keep an eye open for it on television, but not to hurry and rent or buy it at a video store.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Post B #3
Dear Anthony,
Congratulations on your first semi-major tour, you made it through without overdosing too much. Cut back on the drugs man, as your highs continue to dissapoint you more and more, you will just become more depressed and take more drugs trying to achieve that first high again. You are wasting your money, your time, and your life. You are such a smart person that to throw your life away like that is irresposible to your family and your friends. Stop abusing your life!
There are constantly bands on tour, although none are as good as yours of course. But there are druggies everywhere, roaming the streets and doing illegal things. They make people scared to go outside at night and they frighten children into submission. Since this book is a memoir that took place not too long ago, most of the aspects of it are found in today's society too. I am also a bit like Kiedis, having addictions. As far as I know, I am addicted to many videogames, being with my friends, and who knows, probably caffeine too, even though I don't drink coffee.
"'Are you kidding me? I didn't sleep with anybody. I was trying to get high. You know how I am' I pleaded" (164). It is amazing how hard it is for a drug addict to convince his girlfriend that he didn't sleep with anyone. If I was his girlfriend, I'd be more concerned with his heal and his drug problem that if he slept with any other girls or not. Health is more important that faithfulness, at least in my oppinion.
Congratulations on your first semi-major tour, you made it through without overdosing too much. Cut back on the drugs man, as your highs continue to dissapoint you more and more, you will just become more depressed and take more drugs trying to achieve that first high again. You are wasting your money, your time, and your life. You are such a smart person that to throw your life away like that is irresposible to your family and your friends. Stop abusing your life!
There are constantly bands on tour, although none are as good as yours of course. But there are druggies everywhere, roaming the streets and doing illegal things. They make people scared to go outside at night and they frighten children into submission. Since this book is a memoir that took place not too long ago, most of the aspects of it are found in today's society too. I am also a bit like Kiedis, having addictions. As far as I know, I am addicted to many videogames, being with my friends, and who knows, probably caffeine too, even though I don't drink coffee.
"'Are you kidding me? I didn't sleep with anybody. I was trying to get high. You know how I am' I pleaded" (164). It is amazing how hard it is for a drug addict to convince his girlfriend that he didn't sleep with anyone. If I was his girlfriend, I'd be more concerned with his heal and his drug problem that if he slept with any other girls or not. Health is more important that faithfulness, at least in my oppinion.
Post A #3
Vocab:
- Belligerence: A warlike or aggressively hostile nature, condition, or attitude (page 152).
- Flappable: Not easily upset or confused (page 158).
Appeals:
- "After we got offstage, she came up to me and said, 'I have something to tell you. My father's the chief of police and the entire state of Louisiana is looking for me because I've gone missing. Oh, and besides that, I'm only fourteen'" (159). What a shocker for Anthony. Having had sexual relations with a fourteen-year-old... Anyways, i guess this would be an emotional appeal because of the surprise that I'm sure he felt.
- "We came back from the tour with maybe five-hundred dollars apiece, so Jennifer and I had to give up the Lexington house" (161). This is an emotional appeal because it makes you sad that since he came back with not very much money, they had to give up their house.
- "'What would you think if Hillel wanted to come back to the band'" (162). To me, this is a mental appeal, because at this point, I don't know why anyone would want to join their band, but it is truely and emotional appeal because it tells you that Hillel cares enough about them to come back to the band.
Quote:
- "Plus Hillel was like a brother. And, like a brother, he was worried about the amount of drugs I was doing. I was in and out of rehearsals, sometimes showing up late, sometimes not showing up" (163). This quote is significant, because it talks about his problem and how much he truely struggles with drugs.
Theme:
- The theme emerging at this time is still drugs. Anthony is constantly struggling with his addiction and is having some huge problems with conservation of money and staying mentaly healthy.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Post B #2
Dear Anthony,
It seems that you are developing a serious drug problem. You are shooting coke nearly every night, and you can't stop. I know that rehab centers at that time were few, and far between, but you really should have gone in right away. Drugs will never help you, they will only hurt you. I have had countless experiances of this sort; not with drugs, but other things that are fun while they last and arn't worth it in the end. I can't wait until the next time you visit your mother for Christmans, because I hope that you would not dare get high while staying at your mother's house. Also, that creepy preasent that you left Haya was startling. Why would you ever think of sucking blood out of your arm with a syringe, writing a message on your girlfriend's car with it, and then expect her to like it? I am amazed that she did, and it's funny how this isn't your worst idea.
When I look at the world, you are not the only person that has these problems, and I see many people that are on a path to developing such problems. From what I have heard, Minneapolis is the drug capitol of the midwest, and I have noticed many people on the streets and in the news that appear to have drug addictions. There are countless articles in the newspaper that may not say that the people in them are drug addicts, but you just know that they are. I know that you are still in high school at this time in the novel, but the fact that you use so regularly is apalling. Also, sex appears in the news often and is featured in tabloids and such. I have also noticed that you seem to have a lot of it. Constantly sneeking off to the janitor's shed during class with different girls. You are very naughty Anthony Kiedis.
"There was Louis Armstrong with his Hot Five, and also other bands that had 'Red Hot' this, or 'Chili' that. There was even an English band that was called Chilli Willi and the Red Hot Peppers, who later thought we had stolen their name" (108). I find this to be quite funny because many things. First of all, how had nobody taken that name? It is really a great name and would be the first one I'd pick if I had to pick one that had to do with chilli peppers. Another thing is that I hate how people get sued over nothing in today's society. If you are found guilty of discriminating against someone for a job, you pay them 1.5 million dollars! What the heck!? That is probably more than you would make in three dozen years in that job, and you get it because you claim racism? Lame. But back to my point, I'm sure there was an attempted law suit against the Red Hot Chilli Peppers once they became famous.
It seems that you are developing a serious drug problem. You are shooting coke nearly every night, and you can't stop. I know that rehab centers at that time were few, and far between, but you really should have gone in right away. Drugs will never help you, they will only hurt you. I have had countless experiances of this sort; not with drugs, but other things that are fun while they last and arn't worth it in the end. I can't wait until the next time you visit your mother for Christmans, because I hope that you would not dare get high while staying at your mother's house. Also, that creepy preasent that you left Haya was startling. Why would you ever think of sucking blood out of your arm with a syringe, writing a message on your girlfriend's car with it, and then expect her to like it? I am amazed that she did, and it's funny how this isn't your worst idea.
When I look at the world, you are not the only person that has these problems, and I see many people that are on a path to developing such problems. From what I have heard, Minneapolis is the drug capitol of the midwest, and I have noticed many people on the streets and in the news that appear to have drug addictions. There are countless articles in the newspaper that may not say that the people in them are drug addicts, but you just know that they are. I know that you are still in high school at this time in the novel, but the fact that you use so regularly is apalling. Also, sex appears in the news often and is featured in tabloids and such. I have also noticed that you seem to have a lot of it. Constantly sneeking off to the janitor's shed during class with different girls. You are very naughty Anthony Kiedis.
"There was Louis Armstrong with his Hot Five, and also other bands that had 'Red Hot' this, or 'Chili' that. There was even an English band that was called Chilli Willi and the Red Hot Peppers, who later thought we had stolen their name" (108). I find this to be quite funny because many things. First of all, how had nobody taken that name? It is really a great name and would be the first one I'd pick if I had to pick one that had to do with chilli peppers. Another thing is that I hate how people get sued over nothing in today's society. If you are found guilty of discriminating against someone for a job, you pay them 1.5 million dollars! What the heck!? That is probably more than you would make in three dozen years in that job, and you get it because you claim racism? Lame. But back to my point, I'm sure there was an attempted law suit against the Red Hot Chilli Peppers once they became famous.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Post A #2
Vocab:
- Phalanx: a compact or closely massed body of persons, animals, or things. -verb (page 62)
- Busteier: a woman's close-fitting, sleeveless, strapless top, often elasticized, usually
having boning or facing to give it shape, and worn as a blouse. -noun (page 68)
- So when he started yelling at me one day for some school problem, I called him a faggot (55). This is an emotional appeal because Anthony is showing one of multiple relationship probolems he was have with his father at that time.
- "Tony, I know you've been going to Emerson for three years under a false address. Because you don't live in the district, you can't go to school here" (56). This is another emotional appeal because Anthony had know the kids there for years, and know he had to switch to a different high school. At the time, he must have been devastated to have to start over from the beginning.
- "'I think these guys might be undercover-' As soon as that word came out of his mouth, the solid oak front door was kicked in" (62). Once again, this is an emotional appeal because Anthony's dad is in big trouble of being arrested by the cops. With all of the problems going on in his life at this time, loosing his only male role model would not be a good thing for Anthony.
Qu0te:
- "A few months after I met Mike, I met another person who would become one of thclosest friends that I'd ever have" (64). This quote is significant because these two people that he has met are to become two of the founding members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Theme:
- Right now, the theme seems to be Anthony's social life and his friends. He is meeting people whom he will love for the rest of his life and he is also starting to develope relationships with girls.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Post B
Dear Anthony,
While reading your memoir, I am continuously frightened for your life. The only reason that I am able to read on is that I have the knowledge that you are alive. The amazing, yet stupid things that you did nearly daily during you childhood are quite surprising. When I think of a druggie, I will now think of you, but I also think of you when I think of amazing success stories. The fact that you overcame China White and coke to lead your band in becoming one of the most popular in the world is startling.
In health class last year, we learned a lot about addictions and the fact that you overcame heroin and coke and were speedballing and doing all sorts of crazy stuff is surprising. According to our teacher, those habits are nearly impossible to break, but you did it. The media has such a huge influence on people these days, and they always associate drugs with terrible people; the scum of the earth. But you weren’t that bad. You were just a teen struggling with an addiction, but you had the whole world ahead of you. Although you dropped out of college and emotionally hurt a few people, you really meant good because you were always trying to break the habit, just like the Lincoln Park song.
“‘I’m in a band, I’ve got a couple of dollars in my pocket. I’ve got a beautiful, sweet, hot, sexy, crazy little girlfriend, a roof over my head, and some dope.’ Those feelings would disappear, and the next day I’d be off on a run. Jennifer would do her best to deal with my insanity, as she was slowly working on her own (177).” In this quote, the first two sentences are what he was thinking when he was high, and the last two are what happened the next day when he had a “run”.
While reading your memoir, I am continuously frightened for your life. The only reason that I am able to read on is that I have the knowledge that you are alive. The amazing, yet stupid things that you did nearly daily during you childhood are quite surprising. When I think of a druggie, I will now think of you, but I also think of you when I think of amazing success stories. The fact that you overcame China White and coke to lead your band in becoming one of the most popular in the world is startling.
In health class last year, we learned a lot about addictions and the fact that you overcame heroin and coke and were speedballing and doing all sorts of crazy stuff is surprising. According to our teacher, those habits are nearly impossible to break, but you did it. The media has such a huge influence on people these days, and they always associate drugs with terrible people; the scum of the earth. But you weren’t that bad. You were just a teen struggling with an addiction, but you had the whole world ahead of you. Although you dropped out of college and emotionally hurt a few people, you really meant good because you were always trying to break the habit, just like the Lincoln Park song.
“‘I’m in a band, I’ve got a couple of dollars in my pocket. I’ve got a beautiful, sweet, hot, sexy, crazy little girlfriend, a roof over my head, and some dope.’ Those feelings would disappear, and the next day I’d be off on a run. Jennifer would do her best to deal with my insanity, as she was slowly working on her own (177).” In this quote, the first two sentences are what he was thinking when he was high, and the last two are what happened the next day when he had a “run”.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Post A
Vocab-
- Surrogate: A person appointed to act for another. -noun (page 28)
- Clandestinely: Characterized by, done in, or executed with secrecy or concealment, esp. for purposes of subversion or deception. -adjective (page 35)
Appeals-
- "I'd been shooting up coke for so many days straight that I was hallucinating, in a strange limbo between" (7). This is a logical appeal, because it really makes me wonder why you would do this to yourself.
- "'Do you want to be my friend?' 'Yeah, I'll be your friend'" (28). This was got to be an emotional appeal because it is has so much contrast to the rest of the book. A druggie kid going up to someone and asking them this just seems very out of place.
- "'Let's get a pound of pot, sell some, make a profit and have all the weed that we ever wanted to smoke'" (32). This is a logical appeal because, at least to me, it is a surprise that two high kids had enough entrepanourialship to come up with this kind of an idea.
Quote-
"Immediately, I went to the back bathroom, smoked half a joint, then passed it to Mike, and he repeated the ritual" (60). Sadly, this basically sums up the book to this point. Most days, Anthony just goes off and gets high, while paying little attention to his life other than what oddly mattered to him; his schoolwork.
Theme-
At the moment, this memoir seems to be focused on drugs. Most pages in fact have drug referances; it shows how fun drugs can be, but it also shows the downsides of drugs in a somewhat appalling manner.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
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