In a society where women were not accepted into the work world, novelist, critic, and essayist Virginia Woolf writes to describe her profession: literature. In her writing, Professions for Women, Woolf uses modesty, imagery, and flowery language, to appeal to a female audience.
To begin, the author recalls her humble beginnings. She simply describes herself as "...a girl in a bedroom with a pen in her hand" (paragraph 2). She does not get into much detail about her adolescent experiences, and concludes the second paragraph by dismissing her qualifications as a professional worker. She states how little she deserves to be called a professional woman, and the little she knows of the struggles and difficulties of this life style. Modest indeed, Virginia Woolf humble qualification and love for literature is subtly refreshing.
Next, Woolf captures her audience with fantastic imagery. In paragraph 3, the author describes the importance of maintaining a mind of your own. She writes of her encounters with a phantom who attempts to overtake her, forcing her to write in submissively. She writes, "The shadow of her wings fell on my page; I heard the rustling of her skirts in the room" (paragraph 3). Without using long, drawn out sentences, Woolf paints an imagine in the reader's mind. Her descriptions are detailed, yet subtle. This creative sense appeals to both men and women alike.
Lastly, Virginia Woolf uses flowery language to outline her experiences. Unlike over political non- fiction writers such as Henry David Thoreau, author of On The Duty of Disobedience (1849), Virginia Woolf writes in an sophisticated way that is neither condescending nor dry. Her beautiful use of prose enchants the audience and leaves an impact.
I'm mystified by how effectively; how efficiently Virginia Woolf manages to write. I enjoyed her take on the topic of feminism. She is not overbearing, or scornful, or pompous; Virginia does not attempt to flash her intelligence within her writing as an underlying way to achieve superiority. Instead, she writes from the heart. Her self awareness and mastery of language exudes confidence, setting her apart from any author I have ever read from. Taking note of her simplicity, sophistication, creativity, and depth I hope to one day write in a similar way.
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
An Obscene Proposal
The issues of hunger and poverty have disturbed civilization since the beginning of time. Could there finally be a panacea to end the misfortune? Jonathan Swift, author of A Modest Proposal present a feasible solution.
The author begins by setting the scene. He describes his homeland, full of starving women and infants; mothers of three, four, five, or even six children. Women are unable to work because they are too busy caring for their young. It is states that these children should be made useful to the commonwealth. But how? Swift proposes that the best way to tackle this issue is by eating the children. Somehow, this heinous idea of cannibalism is muted by prose. His subtle proposal seems qualified; reasonable. The author's use of ethos, logos, and pathos makes this argument so convincing.
Jonathan Swift establishes credibility by using personal pronouns. He not only describes the issues around him, but also offers his own confessions as well. Swift writes, "As to my own part, having turned my thoughts for many years upon this important subject, and maturely weighed the several schemes of our projectors, I have always found them grossly mistaken in their computation" (paragraph 4). In addition his use of personal pronouns, ("I" and "my"), the author also establishes himself as a credible source by informing the audience of his devotion to the matter. He inserts the time and effort that has been put into carefully computing possible solutions. These examples support ethos.
Secondly, the author uses demographics to persuade readers. Swift writes, "... a child just born will weigh 12 pounds, and in a solar year, if tolerably nursed, will increase to 28 pounds" (paragraph 11). By using statistics, Swift appeals to logic. Mathematical figures make his argument stronger by providing more background information and fortifying his knowledge on the subject.
Lastly, Swift appeals to emotion with his use of vivid language. Scrumptious vocabulary such as "wholesome" and "nourishing" make the idea of eating infants more appetizing. In a nation stricken by poverty, words such as "roasted", "baked", and "stewed" entice readers and evoke an emotional response inflicted by hunger. Swift uses pathos in this way.
Jonathan Swift presents a outrageously obscene proposal in a manner so eloquent and composed, it appears to be realistic. Perhaps the purpose of this piece was not at all in fact a solution to world hunger, but rather a mockery of unrealistic political aspirations. No matter the intent, Swift's pamphlet is proof that any good writer can construct a well written argument using ethos, logos, and pathos.
The author begins by setting the scene. He describes his homeland, full of starving women and infants; mothers of three, four, five, or even six children. Women are unable to work because they are too busy caring for their young. It is states that these children should be made useful to the commonwealth. But how? Swift proposes that the best way to tackle this issue is by eating the children. Somehow, this heinous idea of cannibalism is muted by prose. His subtle proposal seems qualified; reasonable. The author's use of ethos, logos, and pathos makes this argument so convincing.
Jonathan Swift establishes credibility by using personal pronouns. He not only describes the issues around him, but also offers his own confessions as well. Swift writes, "As to my own part, having turned my thoughts for many years upon this important subject, and maturely weighed the several schemes of our projectors, I have always found them grossly mistaken in their computation" (paragraph 4). In addition his use of personal pronouns, ("I" and "my"), the author also establishes himself as a credible source by informing the audience of his devotion to the matter. He inserts the time and effort that has been put into carefully computing possible solutions. These examples support ethos.
Secondly, the author uses demographics to persuade readers. Swift writes, "... a child just born will weigh 12 pounds, and in a solar year, if tolerably nursed, will increase to 28 pounds" (paragraph 11). By using statistics, Swift appeals to logic. Mathematical figures make his argument stronger by providing more background information and fortifying his knowledge on the subject.
Lastly, Swift appeals to emotion with his use of vivid language. Scrumptious vocabulary such as "wholesome" and "nourishing" make the idea of eating infants more appetizing. In a nation stricken by poverty, words such as "roasted", "baked", and "stewed" entice readers and evoke an emotional response inflicted by hunger. Swift uses pathos in this way.
Jonathan Swift presents a outrageously obscene proposal in a manner so eloquent and composed, it appears to be realistic. Perhaps the purpose of this piece was not at all in fact a solution to world hunger, but rather a mockery of unrealistic political aspirations. No matter the intent, Swift's pamphlet is proof that any good writer can construct a well written argument using ethos, logos, and pathos.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Pretentious Politics
The use of pretentious diction serves to inform and persuade. Philosopher Henry David Thoreau writes to criticize the government from a republican point of view. Traditional anti- federalist beliefs include the policy of laissez- faire; a "hands off" government approach. Thoreau supports the strength of the people over the power of the government, which rules without morality. As a resolution the author proposes we rebel, resist, and revolutionize the "bad government" we fought to gain our independence from; the American people have the right to do so as it states in our constitution. Henry David Thoreau supports his claims with his vast knowledge of american patriotism.
The over- all tone of his essay is broken up by patriotic hymns. "I am too high- born to be propertied, // To be secondary to control,..." (King John 5.1.79-82.-- Eds.). Thoreau uses these lines to support his statement-- men must resist their tyrannical government. He later states, "All men recognize the right to revolution; that is, the right to refuse allegiance to and to resist, the government, when its tyranny or its inefficiency are great and unendurable" (paragraph 8). By moving back and forth between citing separate sources and using his own knowledge and opinions, the author writes to establish himself as a reliable source.
The author also tries to establish a sense of trust and credibility by citing a more abstract source-- morality. Thoreau says, "...most legislators, politicians, lawyers, [and] ministers serve the state chiefly with their heads; and, as they rarely make any moral distinctions" (paragraph 5). He implores readers to demand respect from their government. The reader is made to feel tricked, or, taken advantage of by those who hold power. The topic of slavery serves as a concrete example. It is the duty of our federal government to protect our God given, inalienable rights. Slavery however contradicts the principles within our constitution, framed by former president and republican, Thomas Jefferson. Clearly, all men are not created equal if men are still being bought and sold as property. There is little distinction between black and white within the political parties because the men of power think with a similar mind, and rule with the same desires.
John Adams once said, "Whenever Vanity, and Gaiety, a love of Pomp and Dress, Furniture... and elegant Entertainments get the best of the Principles and Judgments of Men and Women there is no knowing where they will stop, nor into what Evils, natural, moral, or political, they will lead us". This statement backs Thoreau's ideal that "government is best which governs not at all" (paragraph 1). By using his prior knowledge and his own justified arguments, Henry David Thoreau uses prevention to persuade his audience to resist the federal government and create a lasting sense of moral patriotism upon a foundation of freedom and consciousness.
The over- all tone of his essay is broken up by patriotic hymns. "I am too high- born to be propertied, // To be secondary to control,..." (King John 5.1.79-82.-- Eds.). Thoreau uses these lines to support his statement-- men must resist their tyrannical government. He later states, "All men recognize the right to revolution; that is, the right to refuse allegiance to and to resist, the government, when its tyranny or its inefficiency are great and unendurable" (paragraph 8). By moving back and forth between citing separate sources and using his own knowledge and opinions, the author writes to establish himself as a reliable source.
The author also tries to establish a sense of trust and credibility by citing a more abstract source-- morality. Thoreau says, "...most legislators, politicians, lawyers, [and] ministers serve the state chiefly with their heads; and, as they rarely make any moral distinctions" (paragraph 5). He implores readers to demand respect from their government. The reader is made to feel tricked, or, taken advantage of by those who hold power. The topic of slavery serves as a concrete example. It is the duty of our federal government to protect our God given, inalienable rights. Slavery however contradicts the principles within our constitution, framed by former president and republican, Thomas Jefferson. Clearly, all men are not created equal if men are still being bought and sold as property. There is little distinction between black and white within the political parties because the men of power think with a similar mind, and rule with the same desires.
John Adams once said, "Whenever Vanity, and Gaiety, a love of Pomp and Dress, Furniture... and elegant Entertainments get the best of the Principles and Judgments of Men and Women there is no knowing where they will stop, nor into what Evils, natural, moral, or political, they will lead us". This statement backs Thoreau's ideal that "government is best which governs not at all" (paragraph 1). By using his prior knowledge and his own justified arguments, Henry David Thoreau uses prevention to persuade his audience to resist the federal government and create a lasting sense of moral patriotism upon a foundation of freedom and consciousness.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Elizabeth Cady Stanton: The OG Feminist
Before the United States were officially united, men of courage decided to dissolve political ties with Great Britain. Thomas Jefferson, founding father and framer of the U.S. Constitution, outlines the colonies' grievances by utilizing syllogism. He begins by defining inalienable rights that belong to all human- beings. These rights include life, liberty, and happiness. Jefferson also declares the peoples' right to overthrow the government if these principles are not properly protected. Next, the wrongdoings of King George lll are outlined. Lastly, a resolution is proposed. Our Declaration of Independence was thus constructed in this manner. Although we gained political independence, equality and justice was still unestablished.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton presented "The Declaration of Sentiments" at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. The purpose of this declaration is to declare rights for women. She conveys this statement by mimicking our patriarchs in the most elegant way possible. Stanton begins in a similar way. Her beliefs are stated: men and women are created equal with inalienable rights and it is the power of the government to protect these rights. If the government does not do so, the governed who suffer may insist upon a new government. Next, a list a wrongdoings is presented. Men are made to be the equivalent of King George lll, and women are The People. Ironically, women were being deprived of all rights as citizens of the United States under the "new and improved" government.
To conclude, Elizabeth Cady Stanton declares that women are thus allowed to overthrow the government. The author says, "...because women do feel themselves aggravated, oppressed, and fraudulently deprived of their most sacred rights" (paragraph 20). The female populations' rights are not efficiently protected by the government that was designed under parallel circumstances. As a slap in the face to the patriarchal society, Stanton courageously mocks the principles of our constitution by using structure.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton presented "The Declaration of Sentiments" at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. The purpose of this declaration is to declare rights for women. She conveys this statement by mimicking our patriarchs in the most elegant way possible. Stanton begins in a similar way. Her beliefs are stated: men and women are created equal with inalienable rights and it is the power of the government to protect these rights. If the government does not do so, the governed who suffer may insist upon a new government. Next, a list a wrongdoings is presented. Men are made to be the equivalent of King George lll, and women are The People. Ironically, women were being deprived of all rights as citizens of the United States under the "new and improved" government.
To conclude, Elizabeth Cady Stanton declares that women are thus allowed to overthrow the government. The author says, "...because women do feel themselves aggravated, oppressed, and fraudulently deprived of their most sacred rights" (paragraph 20). The female populations' rights are not efficiently protected by the government that was designed under parallel circumstances. As a slap in the face to the patriarchal society, Stanton courageously mocks the principles of our constitution by using structure.
Monday, January 25, 2016
The Stylistic Choices of John Adams
Language is infinitely complex, altering throughout time. More antiquated writings are not as easily comprehended, thus requiring more focus. However, one should not allow the diction and syntax to become so consuming that they take away from the actual content of the message itself. What makes the material so intricate is its peculiarity. An unruly display of capitalization, and structure creates special emphasis. John Adam's letter to his wife Abigail during the Revolutionary war is no exception.
While fighting for liberty in the midst of war, founding father John Adams receives a series of concerns from his wife Abigail. She pleads for John to remember of the ladies, and warns him that "all Men would become tyrants if they could" (paragraph 9). With unlimited power possessed by the husbands, Abigail states that the women have no problem starting a revolution of their own in response to mistreatment and inequality. John replies, "Whenever Vanity, and Gaiety, a Love of Pomp and Dress, Furniture, Equipage, Buildings, great Company, expensive Diversions, and elegant Entertainments get the best of the Principles and Judgments of Men or Women there is no knowing where they will stop, nor into what Evils, natural, moral, or political, they will lead us" (paragraph 15). John Adams deconstructs the evils of power, and the effect it has on morality. He states that a "Love of Pomp" and "expensive Diversions" will take control of anyone's better judgment-- both men and women.
Within this run- on sentence, there is an emphasis. A long list of lavash items are recited vigorously, ensuring a sense of conviction. Words with connotation such as "Vanity", "Dress", and "Furniture" stand out in reader's mind, bringing thought focused upon riches, power, and glory. Random punctuation is seldom seen today in the English language. Mr. Adams manipulates these factors to show fervor towards the matter of discussion.
I admire how John Adams writes in a fashion that embodies character. The stylistic choices are not intended to be poetic, however passion shines through beneath his diction and syntax. Although seemingly peculiar, the most messages can be discovered not within the actual text, but rather between the lines.
While fighting for liberty in the midst of war, founding father John Adams receives a series of concerns from his wife Abigail. She pleads for John to remember of the ladies, and warns him that "all Men would become tyrants if they could" (paragraph 9). With unlimited power possessed by the husbands, Abigail states that the women have no problem starting a revolution of their own in response to mistreatment and inequality. John replies, "Whenever Vanity, and Gaiety, a Love of Pomp and Dress, Furniture, Equipage, Buildings, great Company, expensive Diversions, and elegant Entertainments get the best of the Principles and Judgments of Men or Women there is no knowing where they will stop, nor into what Evils, natural, moral, or political, they will lead us" (paragraph 15). John Adams deconstructs the evils of power, and the effect it has on morality. He states that a "Love of Pomp" and "expensive Diversions" will take control of anyone's better judgment-- both men and women.
Within this run- on sentence, there is an emphasis. A long list of lavash items are recited vigorously, ensuring a sense of conviction. Words with connotation such as "Vanity", "Dress", and "Furniture" stand out in reader's mind, bringing thought focused upon riches, power, and glory. Random punctuation is seldom seen today in the English language. Mr. Adams manipulates these factors to show fervor towards the matter of discussion.
I admire how John Adams writes in a fashion that embodies character. The stylistic choices are not intended to be poetic, however passion shines through beneath his diction and syntax. Although seemingly peculiar, the most messages can be discovered not within the actual text, but rather between the lines.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Why So Serious?!
Society shames individuality. We are encouraged to be ourselves, but with certain requirements. If our goal is to achieve acceptance, failure is inevitable. When we strive to be accepted, we are essentially demanding perfection from ourselves. By living under these unrealistic expectations, we lose ourselves and become less and less of an individual.
Realistically, we are shamed for what makes us individuals. In his essay, 'Me Talk Pretty One Day', David Sedaris writes, "How often is one asked what he loves in this world... How often is one asked and then publicly ridiculed for his answer?" (para. 13). In this quote, Sedaris questions the systematics of society's behavior. A feigned interest becomes belittlement. In this response we correct our behavior and seek refuge in popular consensus. An attempt of self- expression results in humility.
Our reactions to humiliation must be adjusted. As a solution, we must structure ourselves. This can be done through laughter. Yes. Laughter. Why take every opinion so seriously?! By finding positively in discomfort, our skin gets a little thicker. Not only are we able to laugh off the "haters" but we also are able to push ourselves; not to perfection but self-improvement rather. We eliminate the savage desire to fit in by becoming the best versions of ourselves. The best way to successfully maintain individuality is to just lighten up!
Realistically, we are shamed for what makes us individuals. In his essay, 'Me Talk Pretty One Day', David Sedaris writes, "How often is one asked what he loves in this world... How often is one asked and then publicly ridiculed for his answer?" (para. 13). In this quote, Sedaris questions the systematics of society's behavior. A feigned interest becomes belittlement. In this response we correct our behavior and seek refuge in popular consensus. An attempt of self- expression results in humility.
Our reactions to humiliation must be adjusted. As a solution, we must structure ourselves. This can be done through laughter. Yes. Laughter. Why take every opinion so seriously?! By finding positively in discomfort, our skin gets a little thicker. Not only are we able to laugh off the "haters" but we also are able to push ourselves; not to perfection but self-improvement rather. We eliminate the savage desire to fit in by becoming the best versions of ourselves. The best way to successfully maintain individuality is to just lighten up!
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Into Adulthood
The teenage years. You're either too old to participate in the activities you once loved, or too young to make grown- up decisions. We often feel confined, like wild wolves in a cage-- except this enclosure is actually called high school. Don't get me wrong-- I believe this institution is completely necessary, despite its negative connotations. Becoming a well- rounded citizen determines how we function in society, and helps us to decide which path we'd like to take in life. Our attitude towards life or adulthood itself however yet been matured. Therefore, we must not rush ourselves out of adolescence.
Our education gives us a taste of what career path we may pursue. With so many options, we stress so much about choosing a career path that we will posses for the rest of our lives. Our provincial mindsets do not allow us to see beyond the false pretense that the "destination" is more important than the journey itself.
In his article 'Let Teenagers Try Adulthood', Leon Botstein writes, "By the time those who graduate from high school go on to college and realize what is really at stake in becoming an adult, too many opportunities have been lost and too much time has been wasted" (para. 5). In this quote, Botstein claims that in dreaming of adulthood, we are wasting our time. Similarly, I believe that in yearning for the future, we are missing the present. There is nothing wrong with having apparitions, however.
Because we are young, we have more than enough time to both discover our passion(s) and dream of a life beyond adolescence. We are constantly growing and making new discoveries, therefore learning more and more about what makes us happy. A sheltered childhood acts as a safety net to catch us when we become lost in our pursuit of happiness. Life is truly about the journey, not a destination. If we are not able to recognize this during out transition into adulthood, we will spend our lives in disappointment, always awaiting something more.
Take what life offers you, and enjoy the ride; beginning to end.
Our education gives us a taste of what career path we may pursue. With so many options, we stress so much about choosing a career path that we will posses for the rest of our lives. Our provincial mindsets do not allow us to see beyond the false pretense that the "destination" is more important than the journey itself.
In his article 'Let Teenagers Try Adulthood', Leon Botstein writes, "By the time those who graduate from high school go on to college and realize what is really at stake in becoming an adult, too many opportunities have been lost and too much time has been wasted" (para. 5). In this quote, Botstein claims that in dreaming of adulthood, we are wasting our time. Similarly, I believe that in yearning for the future, we are missing the present. There is nothing wrong with having apparitions, however.
Because we are young, we have more than enough time to both discover our passion(s) and dream of a life beyond adolescence. We are constantly growing and making new discoveries, therefore learning more and more about what makes us happy. A sheltered childhood acts as a safety net to catch us when we become lost in our pursuit of happiness. Life is truly about the journey, not a destination. If we are not able to recognize this during out transition into adulthood, we will spend our lives in disappointment, always awaiting something more.
Take what life offers you, and enjoy the ride; beginning to end.
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