The entirety of the first chapter of Erich Maria Remarque's, All Quiet on the Western Front, is overflowing with numerous motifs given a small preface, a mere glimpse, of what is yet to come. All of said motifs dance around from page to page intriguing the reader more and more as they playfully taunt you with such things that the mind thinks should not be, but none the less they make for powerful conversation between reader and text. Yet of the many motifs one may choose to analysis none are more prevalent than that of the ironic theme of a clam, nonchalant, and at times, peaceful life on the Western Front during a time of war.
This clam peaceful je ne sais quoi makes the reader question and converse with the text regarding whether or not this could possibly be reality. Beginning immediately in the novel the reader is told that the soldiers "are satisfied and at peace" (1). How one could be satisfied and at peace at a warzone is completely beyond comprehension at this point. It seems incredibly surreal that one could even think a comment as contrdictory to the common knowledge of war as this one. Yet of course war is to be judged only by those who have done battle. Continuing on through the chapter the reader encounters even more as the soldier describes his time as "wonderfully care-free hours" (9). Its leaves a bad taste in your mouth that one can describe their time at war in such a pleasant, nonchalant way. None the less the motif continues and develops further. Odd? Yes, of course yet on the contrary isn’t a bit of positive energy good for the soul in times of such despair? One may only predict how this motif may proceed to develop yet it is safe to say that it is not leaving so soon.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
If You Do It Once, You’ll Do It Again
Author’s Note: upon finishing Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, one of my favorite aspects is the aspect that once Jekyll has made his first transfer, he does not hesitate to proceed over and over again due to the thrill of it all. It is very clear that his repetition plays an important role in the question of what as humans do we do when we are faced with a guilty pleasure.
Life is full of temptations, we all have evil in us that at times drives us to grasp such temptations, there is no denying it. And once a temptation is granted, we will do it again and then again and again, and each time it gets easier and easier. I think the best way to sum up our action as humans is with the old standard, if you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to want a glass of milk. Although in this case we aren't talking about mice, no we are talking about Dr, Jekyll and human action in general and it's not about cookies and milk it's about good and evil. As humans, I believe that we all have evil in us and we are all tempted by this evil within us. It all goes back to when we were children and mom told as we couldn’t eat the cookie dough because it was bad for us, but whenever she said that, it made us want it even more; so what did we do, when she wasn’t looking we took a big spoonful of cookie dough and stuck it in our mouths. However, the real moral is the story is not that the forbidden is most desired, but instead it is that sin becomes easier each time we do it, much like each time we broke mom's rule of not eating cookie dough we thought less about what we were doing and eventually we didn’t care at all that we were breaking a rule. This is the exact case for Dr. Jekyll, the only difference is that we are talking about the continuous committing evil instead of eating cookie dough.
In Dr. Jekyll, we see a man who has been raised in the best of the best standards and has always have been expected to use his brilliance for good, however, as Dr. Jekyll says, "man is not truly one, but two" (104). It is his as well as many others that inside every good human is someone just as evil. He is a man who is bound by science yet he has an incongruous desire to act in evil yet he struggles with this desire for some time. Yet too often, good judgment is clouded by desire and temptation and the will to remain good slowly deteriorates. Dr. Jekyll's goodness does deteriorate and he finally subsides to evil, as "with a strong glow of courage, [he] drank off the potion" (106), that allowed his desire of transformation to another in order to embark in the forbidden journeys of his "evil side" (107). As hard as it may have been and as much courage that he may have need is irrelevant the fact is that he did it. And although it took him a great level of courage to conduct the experiment the first time around, as with everything else in life it became easier and easier yet as he did it over and over again all the while developing an incredulous view towards the evil of it all. Dr. Jekyll became so used to the process that, he "had become hitherto accustomed" (108) to the process and he had enjoyed his time in evil, that he had been "happier" (106). As time progressed he had become accustomed to and enjoyed this vicarious experience. Like some many other humans have done, Dr. Jekyll had thought that he would do something once and get rid of all that temptation yet to no surprise he did it again and then again and every time, the sin became more bearable to him. Dr. Jekyll gave himself a cookie and a glass of milk and look were that landed him…"the life of unhappy Henry Jekyll [brought] to an end" (124).
Life is full of temptations, we all have evil in us that at times drives us to grasp such temptations, there is no denying it. And once a temptation is granted, we will do it again and then again and again, and each time it gets easier and easier. I think the best way to sum up our action as humans is with the old standard, if you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to want a glass of milk. Although in this case we aren't talking about mice, no we are talking about Dr, Jekyll and human action in general and it's not about cookies and milk it's about good and evil. As humans, I believe that we all have evil in us and we are all tempted by this evil within us. It all goes back to when we were children and mom told as we couldn’t eat the cookie dough because it was bad for us, but whenever she said that, it made us want it even more; so what did we do, when she wasn’t looking we took a big spoonful of cookie dough and stuck it in our mouths. However, the real moral is the story is not that the forbidden is most desired, but instead it is that sin becomes easier each time we do it, much like each time we broke mom's rule of not eating cookie dough we thought less about what we were doing and eventually we didn’t care at all that we were breaking a rule. This is the exact case for Dr. Jekyll, the only difference is that we are talking about the continuous committing evil instead of eating cookie dough.
In Dr. Jekyll, we see a man who has been raised in the best of the best standards and has always have been expected to use his brilliance for good, however, as Dr. Jekyll says, "man is not truly one, but two" (104). It is his as well as many others that inside every good human is someone just as evil. He is a man who is bound by science yet he has an incongruous desire to act in evil yet he struggles with this desire for some time. Yet too often, good judgment is clouded by desire and temptation and the will to remain good slowly deteriorates. Dr. Jekyll's goodness does deteriorate and he finally subsides to evil, as "with a strong glow of courage, [he] drank off the potion" (106), that allowed his desire of transformation to another in order to embark in the forbidden journeys of his "evil side" (107). As hard as it may have been and as much courage that he may have need is irrelevant the fact is that he did it. And although it took him a great level of courage to conduct the experiment the first time around, as with everything else in life it became easier and easier yet as he did it over and over again all the while developing an incredulous view towards the evil of it all. Dr. Jekyll became so used to the process that, he "had become hitherto accustomed" (108) to the process and he had enjoyed his time in evil, that he had been "happier" (106). As time progressed he had become accustomed to and enjoyed this vicarious experience. Like some many other humans have done, Dr. Jekyll had thought that he would do something once and get rid of all that temptation yet to no surprise he did it again and then again and every time, the sin became more bearable to him. Dr. Jekyll gave himself a cookie and a glass of milk and look were that landed him…"the life of unhappy Henry Jekyll [brought] to an end" (124).
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
A Natural Want for Knowledge
Author's Note: Upon the advice of Mrs. Woods, I have decided to write about the natural want for knowledge and information this time around. Upon finishing this past Chapter, 9, it was intriguing to learn more of the events of the novel and furthermore, learning more of the natural want for information. Thus, I offer and analysis of the never ending natural want for knowledge.
As a reader, there is a never ending want to find the true meaning of a piece of literature and with good reason, but as a human being, an individual, a person, what is it that makes us want to know so much more than is really necessary about someone or something. Why would an intelligent being such as Dr. Lanyon want to know the deepest and darkest secrets of Henry Jekyll, of which are known to be the darkest aspects of the novel. Yet as with most everything else, human curiosity out ways simple logic head over heels.
Ensuing along his narrative, Dr. Lanyon meets a key point in the definition of good and evil in knowledge through his work to save the life of his old friend, Dr. Jekyll. Having the choice to learn of the truth known to be virtually evil that he need not know or to follow logic and allow the entirety of this evil and sinister occurrence makes the choice that any human would make. Despite having been warned that if told he " 'shall be blasted by a prodigy to stagger the unbelief of Satan' " (101), he proceeds in a pursuit of the truth justifying it as though having " 'gone too far in the way of inexplicable services to pause' " (101). Anyone of us would have made this same exact decision time and time again, even if the result was known in its entirety, because as humans we are hardwired to seek knowledge of such things. Even when logic tells us that something's are just meant to go unknown, as a human we never accept it. It is a natural human flaw that drives some to the limit. Why, we may never know, yet what is known it that once the prized knowledge is revealed it is a game of Russian Roulette to determine whether such knowledge is devastating. As for Dr. Lanyon, it is indeed, as upon the disclosure of the true identity of Mr. Hyde, he screams " 'O God!' again and again" (102). The result of acquiring information that ought not be acquired can be so terrible indeed. Yet as humans we never cease to push further and further never looking back, no matter the crime nor punishment.
As a reader, there is a never ending want to find the true meaning of a piece of literature and with good reason, but as a human being, an individual, a person, what is it that makes us want to know so much more than is really necessary about someone or something. Why would an intelligent being such as Dr. Lanyon want to know the deepest and darkest secrets of Henry Jekyll, of which are known to be the darkest aspects of the novel. Yet as with most everything else, human curiosity out ways simple logic head over heels.
Ensuing along his narrative, Dr. Lanyon meets a key point in the definition of good and evil in knowledge through his work to save the life of his old friend, Dr. Jekyll. Having the choice to learn of the truth known to be virtually evil that he need not know or to follow logic and allow the entirety of this evil and sinister occurrence makes the choice that any human would make. Despite having been warned that if told he " 'shall be blasted by a prodigy to stagger the unbelief of Satan' " (101), he proceeds in a pursuit of the truth justifying it as though having " 'gone too far in the way of inexplicable services to pause' " (101). Anyone of us would have made this same exact decision time and time again, even if the result was known in its entirety, because as humans we are hardwired to seek knowledge of such things. Even when logic tells us that something's are just meant to go unknown, as a human we never accept it. It is a natural human flaw that drives some to the limit. Why, we may never know, yet what is known it that once the prized knowledge is revealed it is a game of Russian Roulette to determine whether such knowledge is devastating. As for Dr. Lanyon, it is indeed, as upon the disclosure of the true identity of Mr. Hyde, he screams " 'O God!' again and again" (102). The result of acquiring information that ought not be acquired can be so terrible indeed. Yet as humans we never cease to push further and further never looking back, no matter the crime nor punishment.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Dr. Jekyll’s Progression from Sinister to Evil
Author’s Note: Since the beginning of this novel, I have been greatly drawn into the level of sinister qualities that are driving many of the characters, and even more so the progression across the fine line of good or evil, furthermore, the increasing imagery of boundaries being drawn to separate those who have been indulged by the devil. Thus, I come to offer an analysis of the actions of Dr. Henry Jekyll in his progression on this journey of what is good and what is evil.
We all love a little evil and a little sinister in entertainment, it makes life a little more interesting and fun. But too often is the very fine line between something that is sinister yet good and that of pure and whole evil misinterpreted. Until now, I always associated them as one in the same but the truth is that they are in fact quite different. This difference is clearly represented by Dr. Henry Jekyll’s progression of sinister actions yet good to the wholly evil temperament that will inevitably lead not only to his demise but the demise of many others.
Upon my first encounter with Dr. Jekyll’s character during the youth of this engaging tale, I was be founded by his brilliant appeal and great intelligent and intellectual charisma. It seemed that a man that associates himself with those whom are “all intelligent, reputable men” (56), much like himself no doubt could be tainted by anything less than the most pure of intentions. Alas, with great power comes great responsibility and when one is tainted by the power just a tad more so than the responsibility, the result can be a breaching run across the moral line into the depths of evil. Many great men throughout history have been corrupted by their ability and power and Dr. Jekyll is no especially when it comes to his incredibly unordinary relation with the murder Mr. Hyde. While in trying to deny his evil actions and seek riddance of his relation to Mr. Hyde, as he promises to Mr. Utterson that he "will never set eyes on him again" (52). Repentance to his sins, no doubt was the impression that had been made in my mind, and with good reason. It would seem only natural that someone of Dr. Jekyll's great intellect and repertoire would seek immediate estrangement from a man of such evil despite the connection between them. I mean when someone commits and act as malicious as murder, there is no doubt that an action must be made against him. However, Dr. Jekyll having such a connection to Mr. Hyde once again instead of doing what is right, he does what is easy.
As the reading proceeds, Dr. Jekyll becomes very separated from the rest of his society claiming to be in an ill state, and thus refuses guests because it would be, "quite impossible" (60). However, upon further inquiry at Dr. Jekyll's residence, the proof that the good doctor is indeed no longer of good but instead of evil comes screaming into evidence. Mr. Utterson and Mr. Enfield had caught a glimpse of the man that Dr. Jekyll had sworn to never set eyes on again and "that glimpse had been sufficient" (61). The moment Dr, Jekyll broke his vow to never set eyes on Mr. Hyde again, the moment he allowed Mr. Hyde to cross the threshold into his residence, the moment that Dr. Jekyll began to live a lie was the moment that the progression from sinister but good came to a screaming entry into evil and now Satan's mark will forever lie on Dr. Jekyll. It is indeed a great transgression to lie to friends such as Mr. Utterson but it is a transgression more to allow the figure of the Devil himself to seek refuge in one's home. Dr. Jekyll who was overtaken by what was easy will no forever be doomed by a life at the hand of Satan.
We all love a little evil and a little sinister in entertainment, it makes life a little more interesting and fun. But too often is the very fine line between something that is sinister yet good and that of pure and whole evil misinterpreted. Until now, I always associated them as one in the same but the truth is that they are in fact quite different. This difference is clearly represented by Dr. Henry Jekyll’s progression of sinister actions yet good to the wholly evil temperament that will inevitably lead not only to his demise but the demise of many others.
Upon my first encounter with Dr. Jekyll’s character during the youth of this engaging tale, I was be founded by his brilliant appeal and great intelligent and intellectual charisma. It seemed that a man that associates himself with those whom are “all intelligent, reputable men” (56), much like himself no doubt could be tainted by anything less than the most pure of intentions. Alas, with great power comes great responsibility and when one is tainted by the power just a tad more so than the responsibility, the result can be a breaching run across the moral line into the depths of evil. Many great men throughout history have been corrupted by their ability and power and Dr. Jekyll is no especially when it comes to his incredibly unordinary relation with the murder Mr. Hyde. While in trying to deny his evil actions and seek riddance of his relation to Mr. Hyde, as he promises to Mr. Utterson that he "will never set eyes on him again" (52). Repentance to his sins, no doubt was the impression that had been made in my mind, and with good reason. It would seem only natural that someone of Dr. Jekyll's great intellect and repertoire would seek immediate estrangement from a man of such evil despite the connection between them. I mean when someone commits and act as malicious as murder, there is no doubt that an action must be made against him. However, Dr. Jekyll having such a connection to Mr. Hyde once again instead of doing what is right, he does what is easy.
As the reading proceeds, Dr. Jekyll becomes very separated from the rest of his society claiming to be in an ill state, and thus refuses guests because it would be, "quite impossible" (60). However, upon further inquiry at Dr. Jekyll's residence, the proof that the good doctor is indeed no longer of good but instead of evil comes screaming into evidence. Mr. Utterson and Mr. Enfield had caught a glimpse of the man that Dr. Jekyll had sworn to never set eyes on again and "that glimpse had been sufficient" (61). The moment Dr, Jekyll broke his vow to never set eyes on Mr. Hyde again, the moment he allowed Mr. Hyde to cross the threshold into his residence, the moment that Dr. Jekyll began to live a lie was the moment that the progression from sinister but good came to a screaming entry into evil and now Satan's mark will forever lie on Dr. Jekyll. It is indeed a great transgression to lie to friends such as Mr. Utterson but it is a transgression more to allow the figure of the Devil himself to seek refuge in one's home. Dr. Jekyll who was overtaken by what was easy will no forever be doomed by a life at the hand of Satan.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
The Motive of the Will
Author's Note: When reading chapter two of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I couldn't help but make a connection to the legality and lawyerly attributes that went along with the will -- it made me want to look closer at the reaction of Mr. Utterson and the decisions made by Dr. Jekyll in regards to the mysterious document. Alas, you have my analysis of the Motive of the Will. Enjoy.
What is a will? Is it recognition that one matter enough in another’s life to be listed in such a document or is it simply a monetary transaction between two parties granting one great benefit at another’s great loss, or better yet is it trust and free will being rewarded after time? One can only speculate as once they figure out that they have been written into a will, the answer is already six feet under. However when it comes to the last will and testament an answer lies in the hands of a third party, bound by the law to execute the will to its full extent.
Somewhere, a lawyer sits in an office reviewing every last detail on an eight and a half by fourteen page. As he sits he reconciles how that document came to be. Mr. Utterson, a character and lawyer in Robert Louis Stevenson’s, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, does just this but instead of letting it collect dust in his safe, he inquires further and furthermore to find the motive of the will, "[he] sat down with a clouded brow to study its contents" (45). Mr. Utterson clearly has no desire to execute this document when it becomes necessary for his friend has in his mind committed a disloyalty. Against every shred and whimper of lawyerly and friendly advice that Utterson had put forward, his dear friend Dr. Jekyll saw fit to disregard all of it causing Mr. Utterson to have, "refused to lend the least assistance in the making of it" (46). As a dear friend, Mr. Utterson has no choice to be offended and possibly insulted – he is a man of intelligence and intellect and a man of good and to be simply dismissed is absolutely unheard of. Dr. Jekyll obviously is conducting his will as an order of business, a monetary transaction between two parties. The motive of the will has been uncovered but Mr. Utterson is not satisfied, and with good reason, being a man of knowledge that he is, he has no choice but to address the head of the snake and so he goes to the good Dr. Jekyll in hopes to reveal the reason to the motive. However a distrust of such a degree is not to flee so quickly and it will pay its toll on their friendship in time.
What is a will? Is it recognition that one matter enough in another’s life to be listed in such a document or is it simply a monetary transaction between two parties granting one great benefit at another’s great loss, or better yet is it trust and free will being rewarded after time? One can only speculate as once they figure out that they have been written into a will, the answer is already six feet under. However when it comes to the last will and testament an answer lies in the hands of a third party, bound by the law to execute the will to its full extent.
Somewhere, a lawyer sits in an office reviewing every last detail on an eight and a half by fourteen page. As he sits he reconciles how that document came to be. Mr. Utterson, a character and lawyer in Robert Louis Stevenson’s, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, does just this but instead of letting it collect dust in his safe, he inquires further and furthermore to find the motive of the will, "[he] sat down with a clouded brow to study its contents" (45). Mr. Utterson clearly has no desire to execute this document when it becomes necessary for his friend has in his mind committed a disloyalty. Against every shred and whimper of lawyerly and friendly advice that Utterson had put forward, his dear friend Dr. Jekyll saw fit to disregard all of it causing Mr. Utterson to have, "refused to lend the least assistance in the making of it" (46). As a dear friend, Mr. Utterson has no choice to be offended and possibly insulted – he is a man of intelligence and intellect and a man of good and to be simply dismissed is absolutely unheard of. Dr. Jekyll obviously is conducting his will as an order of business, a monetary transaction between two parties. The motive of the will has been uncovered but Mr. Utterson is not satisfied, and with good reason, being a man of knowledge that he is, he has no choice but to address the head of the snake and so he goes to the good Dr. Jekyll in hopes to reveal the reason to the motive. However a distrust of such a degree is not to flee so quickly and it will pay its toll on their friendship in time.
Meeting the Governor
Typing away, shuffling from paper to paper, glancing at the clock...I was entering challenged to recall petitions against Governor Walker. There were eight of us in a small room laptops on our laps as the stack of papers continued to get higher and higher. While there were only eight of us trusted to actually enter the challenged into the computers for the lawyers to review, there was a good 200 more showing their support towards the governor going through packets upon packets flagging down fraudulent signatures. Our enthusiasm was through the roof as we knew that we were making a difference in making sure that justice was done -- while there may be a recall election, we were prepared to take the time to ensure that the opposition sees that we will not buckle but rise to the challenge. Consumed in our work we took little notice when Mrs. Walker entered the building and past our room but moments later we were taken by surprise when Ethan called into us, "Look who's coming in the door! Look! Look!"
I jumped up and run out to the entry way thinking to myself, "It can't be, no, the governor can't be here," oh but he was. Walking casually through the door jeans and tennis shoes. He stopped thanking each of us and shaking our hands, allowing those who wanted a picture, to take as many as we wanted with him before proceeding into the warehouse to address the 200 more volunteers. When he spoke, you knew he was a true leader, he stood tall and spoke with pride: pride of the State, pride for the people, and pride for us who have stood by his side. He has gone through a lot but he said it didn't matter as long as Wisconsin remains on the right track, as long as Wisconsin remains "Open for Business".
It was an honor to be able to meet a man of his great character and great leadership. I know how ever this turns out that our party and our state will have been better under his leadership than without and I am proud to say the I Stand with Governor Walker!
Friday, January 20, 2012
The Blood, Oh The Blood
The man gazed down, his hands were covered with blood, the deepest scarlet blood he had ever seen. It spilled across his hands, coat, and pants, but he couldn’t remember where it had come from. He knew something had happened, something so dreadful that he didn’t ever want to know what it was. Then he heard the gasps from the nosy old ladies on the corner and the runners out on their mid-morning jogs stopping in their tracks eyeing the blood, oh the blood, the stained red sticky blood. Suddenly the splitting pitch of a police siren swarmed the air like a speaker on high in a tiny, tiny room. Not knowing what to do he ran so fast his fist clenched his bulky chest as he gasped for breathe to loosen the horrific tightness binding his chest, but cease did he not, not stopping for anything or anyone.
Upon running several blocks without stop, the man noticed the eyes that followed him at every corner. The blood, oh the blood, he had to get rid of the blood, it seemed like Satan's fingerprint on his very body slowly drying to a deep reddish brown. He soon slipped into a public loo, tore off his stained coat and thrust his hands into the sink under a stream of hot water. Lathering his hands in soap he scrubbed and scrubbed but the blood, oh the blood, simply wouldn’t budge. For what seemed like hours he scrubbed, nearly pulling flesh from bone but even then the blood remained a deep scarlet stain on his hands.
The man recurrently wandered into thought, and subsequently failed to recall any memory of the occurrence. As hard as he tried he could not summon the memory from deep inside his mind. The unknowing of the unspeakable occurrence worried him exceptionally so. He was sure it was a mental blockade preventing recollection of the occurrence, for all he knew, for all he thought he knew was that it was terrible, so terrible that he would even go as far as saying it was as bad as the deep scarlet blood that stained his very skin. The memory of standing alone with his daughter wrapped tight in his arms with a deep look of discontent flooding her eyes remained imprisoned in his mind but beyond that was a black abyss of empty space. Surely it couldn't be...No it was impossible, his daughter was fine. In fact, she was probably waiting for him this very minute. Disgusted at himself for even entertaining the thought of such a terrible thing, the man turned his wrath back to the scarlet blood staining his hands and continued.
After cleaning himself to the best of his ability, although some of the deep scarlet blood remained stained on his body, he proceeded at a brisk walk across the cobbled street and back the way he came walking deeper and deeper into the city and towards the crisp blue ocean. Not knowing whether it would be in his best interest to simply return home or to return to the place of the occurrence, the man decided that neither the latter nor the first would suffice at the present and instead decided to remain walking as he attempted to penetrate deeper into his mind.
Upon achieving little success due to no lack of effort, the man decided that despite his conscious strenuous objection, he must return to the site of the occurrence, he must return to the blood…
Upon running several blocks without stop, the man noticed the eyes that followed him at every corner. The blood, oh the blood, he had to get rid of the blood, it seemed like Satan's fingerprint on his very body slowly drying to a deep reddish brown. He soon slipped into a public loo, tore off his stained coat and thrust his hands into the sink under a stream of hot water. Lathering his hands in soap he scrubbed and scrubbed but the blood, oh the blood, simply wouldn’t budge. For what seemed like hours he scrubbed, nearly pulling flesh from bone but even then the blood remained a deep scarlet stain on his hands.
The man recurrently wandered into thought, and subsequently failed to recall any memory of the occurrence. As hard as he tried he could not summon the memory from deep inside his mind. The unknowing of the unspeakable occurrence worried him exceptionally so. He was sure it was a mental blockade preventing recollection of the occurrence, for all he knew, for all he thought he knew was that it was terrible, so terrible that he would even go as far as saying it was as bad as the deep scarlet blood that stained his very skin. The memory of standing alone with his daughter wrapped tight in his arms with a deep look of discontent flooding her eyes remained imprisoned in his mind but beyond that was a black abyss of empty space. Surely it couldn't be...No it was impossible, his daughter was fine. In fact, she was probably waiting for him this very minute. Disgusted at himself for even entertaining the thought of such a terrible thing, the man turned his wrath back to the scarlet blood staining his hands and continued.
After cleaning himself to the best of his ability, although some of the deep scarlet blood remained stained on his body, he proceeded at a brisk walk across the cobbled street and back the way he came walking deeper and deeper into the city and towards the crisp blue ocean. Not knowing whether it would be in his best interest to simply return home or to return to the place of the occurrence, the man decided that neither the latter nor the first would suffice at the present and instead decided to remain walking as he attempted to penetrate deeper into his mind.
Upon achieving little success due to no lack of effort, the man decided that despite his conscious strenuous objection, he must return to the site of the occurrence, he must return to the blood…
Thursday, October 13, 2011
An Excerpt From a Short Story
It was a crisp October afternoon, a perfect fall temperature with a cool breeze whisked in his face, the subtle scent of salt reminded him he was in Boston, if the cobbled stone path and brown bricked colonial buildings of the university failed to do so. As he walked across the cobble pathway, he smiled as he observed the brilliant fall colors in the yard. He was a man of no more than fifty and his once dark brown has was starting to fade to gray. With a swift flick of his arm he glanced down at his platinum and gold Rolex watch, it was three after three. He was now running late for a very important cocktail, hastening his stride he nearly collided with a student on his way to class. After exchanging apologies, he continued on his path away from the ever so boring business meeting he barely heard a word of due to his great distraction. In a few moments time he was met by the end of the campus, as he crossed under the gate emblazed with an H and the university crest his black Mercedes came into sight. Climbing into his car, he was met by the instantaneous low rumble of the German engine. It was now 3:13 according to his Rolex, "Seventeen minutes, I can't be late."
Sunday, October 9, 2011
A Tribute to Steve Jobs
"Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do." - Apple Inc.
These words were first used in a commercial that Steve Jobs had made for the original Apple. After his untimely passing this Wednesday, we have come to appreciate all Mr. Jobs has done for society, he was the Einstein of our time. Mr. Jobs is the best example of the American Dream I can think of as he went from nothing to everything simply by following his dreams. He was determined and passionate and fought on to achieve his full potential. By doing what he loved not only did he satisfy himself, but he also did wonders for this world. From the original iPods that revolutionized musical entertainment as we know it to the iPhone that has forever changed wireless connection and communication, we are indebted to Mr. Jobs and his American Dream. It is unfair that someone as great as he has meet his fate at such a young age but always remember his great ideologies. He knew that life was unpredictable and that we must make the best of it no matter what. He made this statement during a Commencement Address made at Stanford University, “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. … Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” Our hearts go out to the Jobs family and Apple Inc. for the loss of this great man. We will always remember the joy he brought to all of us. Steve Jobs may you forever rest in peace.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Goodbye Homecoming Number One!
Well Homecoming Week has finally come to a close; why such a negative attitude about such a fun week you may ask? The answer to that my dear friend, is that "one man's fun is another's hell." All of that pomp and circumstance that goes on over those seven long days is put together by yours truly, along with the PHS Student Senate of course. And never before, has more time been spent in Mrs. Fogerty's room, running in and out of her room in-between classes is not necessarily one of the most desirable things one can do, but none the less a job needed to get done and I was ready to do. Even though I did have the flu on Tuesday and felt like the living dead the whole week, I stood up proudly to the challenge. And in all reality I did have a nice time at the dance, that is when I wasn't sitting in the hallway on the floor exhausted talking to one of my sisters friends, yeah I'd say I had a pretty nice time. Well, one Homecoming down, and three more to go!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Goodbye
It seems like only yesterday we were walking into eighth grade telling our summer tails and wishing that we could have had one more week of break. But now it's all over we are freshman, we're one step closer to becoming adults and our paths are starting to become more distinct. As I walked down the hallway for the last time my throat choked up as the year flashed in front of my eyes. Goodbye Asa Clark Middle School, I will always remember you.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Six Flags Great America
It may have rained, it may have been cold, but boy was it fun. As soon as I jumped off the bus and ran into the park I had been over whelmed with excitement and anticipation; where to go first? Personally I had to work my way up, so I started with the Dark Knight, it was a little disappointing but not bad for an indoor ride. Then came the big rides, Superman and Batman. First it was Superman, needless to say I was freaked out, it was my first time going on a coaster of that caliber. But boy was it worth it as we laid on our stomachs plunging into the giant loop and accelerating into the twisting turning curves of the Superman. Then finally it was time to challenge Batman. As I impatiently waited to jump on to the first yellow and purple bat, I skimmed the rollercoaster with my team, Bailey, Becky, Leah, and me. As soon as we had reached the top of the ride and started the twisting turning journey we were like five year olds on Christmas morning yelling and screaming as we flipped upside down and dove down towards the ground; in total, I rode the Bat fifteen times. No matter how cold or wet it may have been, yesterday is a day I'll always remember.
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Reagan Diaries
The Reagan Diaries, a book that tells you who the man truly was, not a biography written by some journalist, no, it’s a real first hand recollection. Although I am only through President Reagan's first year in office, it is self evident that Ronald Reagan was not just a politician, he was a true leader and a good man. As he tells you of his many tails in office you see how he loved this country and its people. You also got to take a look at his sense of humor. My favorite part of the book so far has been the day when Reagan got shot and wrote, "Getting shot hurts." Well I would have never guessed. This book truly does make you feel like you know the man, I can't wait to get started in his second year in office.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day Weekend, cookouts, parades, swimming, and much more. Four days of fun away from school. It all started for me with something anything but fun, yard work, only second to allergies on my long list of things I hate. Four hours of pulling weeds and planting flowers in the hot sun. Not thank you, I'll take the cookouts and swimming. But not to worry, I got to the cookouts, swimming, and parades later.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Kevin Gardner, Attorney at Law
Hi guys, this story just popped into my head and I had to write it down, I know it's not complete and I promise that I'll have the next part posted soon, but for now I'd love to hear what you think. Here it is:
There are two kinds of people in this world who know the law, civil servants and lawyers; me, I'm the kind that pays better. So who am I? The name's Gardner, Kevin Gardner to be exact, I'm a partner at the firm, Genske Cromwell and Gardner, one of the most prestigious law firms in the state of Illinois and numero uno in the Windy City. I'm not the kind of lawyer who sits around all day trying to think of how to get my client off the hook for murder one, no way man, you couldn't pay me enough to get my hands dirty in criminal defense. I'm the kind of attorney who works with civil and divorce suits, and I know that side of the law like the back of my hand; I can twist the law around with the drop of a hat to make it point in my clients direction no problem, that's what you get with a J.D. from the University of Chicago. Anyways, two days ago I was approached by one of the most effluent men in Chicago, William Lockhart…
There are two kinds of people in this world who know the law, civil servants and lawyers; me, I'm the kind that pays better. So who am I? The name's Gardner, Kevin Gardner to be exact, I'm a partner at the firm, Genske Cromwell and Gardner, one of the most prestigious law firms in the state of Illinois and numero uno in the Windy City. I'm not the kind of lawyer who sits around all day trying to think of how to get my client off the hook for murder one, no way man, you couldn't pay me enough to get my hands dirty in criminal defense. I'm the kind of attorney who works with civil and divorce suits, and I know that side of the law like the back of my hand; I can twist the law around with the drop of a hat to make it point in my clients direction no problem, that's what you get with a J.D. from the University of Chicago. Anyways, two days ago I was approached by one of the most effluent men in Chicago, William Lockhart…
Friday, May 7, 2010
Continuous Effort
I woke up this morning not wanting to get up out of my soft comfy bed to go to school; as the day dragged on, I dragged with it. I didn’t really wake up until resource when I was overwhelmed by my friends congratulating me on winning the election, at that moment I started to think about how what we do today can greatly impact what we do and who we are tomorrow. We all have the potential and the ability to succeed; who we are may be predetermined, but at the end of the day what it all comes down to is where we are and how we got there, as Winston Churchill once said, " Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is the key to unlocking our potential."
Career Days
Career Days, two days away from the stress of school, away from all the tedious work, away from life. Two days to take a look into your future, and to see what career field suits you. For some it was more exciting than others, but none the less we all had our favorites. For me it was the Milwaukee Marriott West; they're sense of elegance is unique as you walk into the lobby and see the oak paneled front desk and the clocks from all the different cities, it gives you a sense of the high standards of this magnificent hotel. The general manager was interesting and entertaining as he promptly offered us soda and handed out candy as soon as we had arrived at the lovely hotel. It was an entertaining two days and a great brake from stress of everyday life.
A Scene From The Battle of Hampton Roads
It was the morning of March 9, 1862, a day that would forever change naval warfare as it was known to mankind; I was lying in my bunk as I thought about the events that had lead up to what was about to happen. Just the day before the ironclad ship, CSS Merrimac, had engaged in two Union ships, the USS Congress and USS Cumberland; the result was devastating, both Union ships were blown apart while the Confederate ironclad had taken no damage. But now it was our turn, as we sailed around the bend into Hampton Roads on board the USS Monitor, the Union’s first ironclad, we were going to show the impeccable rednecks what the United Stated Navy was capable of.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
You Gotta Love the Arizona Sun
As we drove into my grandma’s drive way and stepped out of the car I thought to myself, you gotta love the Arizona sun; whenever you are touched by its golden rays, you feel the stress run from your body and you are in a sense of peace where nothing bad can happen. And that was just the case for the rest of my vacation as the sun shined down on us every day. It made spring break that much better, as I swam in the crisp blue water of the pool, and walked down the lush green fairways of the golf course with the sun warming the state.
Welcome To Arizona
Spring Break…arguably one of the best parts of second semester; no matter where you went, you had some time away from the stress of everyday life. For me the destination was Arizona. It all started on Friday, April 10th, it was 6:30am and I found myself in General Mitchell International Airport waiting at gate 33 for my 7:00 flight to Phoenix. The fun soon began after we touched down at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and I stepped out of the jet and was immediately over taken by the warmth and Arizona sun.
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