IOP - Reflection

1. Write a brief descriptive paragraph that summarizes your IOP. Be sure to include the topic, your thesis, and the hook and any visual aids you used.

My IOP discussed the major conflicts in In The Time of The Butterflies, focusing on the four main characters, Patria, Minerva, Mate and Dede. Each of their conflicts, both internal and external were presented, although I only focused on one major conflict of each character. I attempted to explain the significance of each and the impact it had on the novel in terms of the main plot and themes. My stated thesis was "The cause and effect of each major conflict are what dictate the novel, in terms of the main plot line." I used a puppet show as my hook, a conversation between Minerva and El Jefe lead me into the first conflict I discussed. As I presented a puppet of each character I analyzed was shown. I also had a powerpoint on which I included the main points I talked about.

 

2. In a well-developed paragraph reflect upon the lessons you learned as a result of the IOP process. This process includes the preparation of your presentation, its delivery, and the subsequent reflection you engaged in following the presentation itself.

The entire process, including the preparation and the actual presentation, was definitely a learning experience. I learned many new skills such as presenting a literary argument and supporting it with evidence and proof.  I also improved on many other skills such as keeping the audience interested with the se of “hooks” and other various methods. I learned this from observing the audiences reaction during my presentation and from other presentations as well. From the preparation, I realized how inefficient procrastination is; I learned to manage my time better. I believe that if I had prepared better, my presentation would have significantly improved. This is reflected in the delivery of my presentation, which definitely could have been smoother. I stuttered a lot, evidence of my necessity to prepare better.  I discussed my weaknesses in my reflection, which also helped me realize the strengths and weaknesses of my presentation. I learned the importance of reflecting on such experiences and learning from my mistakes in order to prevent any future occurrences. I actually valued my mistakes as learning experiences. I noticed most of my flaws in presenting when I watched myself present (on video). I was really able to observe myself through the audiences prospective.

This experience has really prepared me for the other IB requirements and any challenge in life. The main lessons I learned were time management, the importance of preparation and other skills related to the actual delivery.

Oracle Night - My Opinion

How did you like the multi-layered plot? Was the plot too complicated or did you find it engaging? Which plot did you like the best: Sid and Grace's story or Nick Bowen's?

Paul Auster used a multi-layered plot method in order to portray multiple stories in the novel Oracle Night. This allowed for the narrartion of various storied through the life of one character, namely Sidney. Sidney's writing and narraration of Nick Bowen's story created parallels between the two plots and deeper characterization of the chracter. As a result of the multi-layered plot, the characters appeared more full and rounded. 

The lack of chapter divisions to serve as an indicator between the multiple stories may have caused some complication, but in general it was clear when the plot shifted. This writing style was quite engaging, as it never gave a chance for the reader to lose interest. Following multiple plots, personnally, kept me interested. A compelling element of this aspect of the novel is that Sidney was writing the story within the novel, so his thoughts on his writing while he wrote were interesting to follow. The overall effect of a multi-layered plot, especially protrayed as in the novel, is absorbing and engaging for the reader.

The two main plots of Oracle Night were Sid and Grace's, and Nick Bowen's. I preferred Sid and Grace's story because it was more complete and slightly more elaborate. There were more characters and events. The setting and other elements of a story, including a conclusion, which Bowen's story lacks. Bowen's story had a very interesting plot, yet lacked many vital details as a result of Sidney's inability to continue writing. In conclusion, the multi-layered plot is gripping, with some stories dominating more than others.

Reaction to The Rock of Tanios

In what way or ways do you "connect" with the book The Rock of Tanios by Amin Maalouf? In what way is it accessible or familiar to you? 

The Rock of Tanios by Amin Maalouf is a novel set in Lebanon, or the area that was to become Lebanon, during the time of the Ottoman rule. The setting and numerous historical references aided me in "connecting" with the novel. Many areas and regions mentioned are places I've been to or I know of, as most are in Lebanon or the Middle East.  The historical background of the novel is very familiar to me as it is the history of the foundation of my country, Lebanon, and the historical effects of many of the events impact the situation today in various ways. Although I have not studied the history of Lebanon in school, much of it is reflected in our society today. The title "Sheikh" carried on as a title of nobility until recently. The hierarchy system is still present in many countries in the Middle East, where the Emir is the highest in command. The cultural background was also very familiar to me; many proverbs and italicized Arabic words are known to me, as their usage has continued on to this day in Lebanon. Examples of these are "yabni" (p.12), "hajje" (p.26), "ya binti" (p.23), "kishk" (p. 126), "effendi" (p.146), etc. Many traditions and the way of life illustrated in the novel reflect, to a certain degree, the culture present in modern day Lebanon. These are some ways I am able to connect with the novel. The setting, historical and cultural backgrounds are very familiar to me, as a Lebanese citizen. 

Byron vs. Shakespeare

3. Compare the poetry of Lord Byron with the poetry of another famous poet (e.g. Shakespeare's sonnets). How does Byron's poetry rate in comparison? Whose poetry do you prefer and why?

Lord Byron and Shakespeare, both well-known British poet, use differing styles in writing styles in poetry. Lord Byron's most notable works include the narrative poems Childe Harold's Pilgrimage and Don Juan. His poems can be described as mock-epic, he uses satire as a main element through his characters. Don Juan is a sixteen cantos poem (the seventeenth cantos remained unfinished upon his death). The structure of each stanza was Ottava Rima and followed an iambic pentameter. Through it Byron challenges many norms and traditions present in England at the time with emphasis on the notion of an "epic hero" by basing it in the famous character Don Juan. He achieves his goal through his satirical and mocking style of writing in the long, epic form. Shakespeare's sonnets, on the other hand, are a series of 154, independent, yet linked, eight-line sonnets. They focus on themes of love, beauty, politics and mortality. Evidence suggest that they were not meant to be published, just between friends. Many suggest links between Shakespeare's sonnets and his life, Wordsworth believed that Shakespeare "unlocked his heart" through his sonnets. The constant use of the word "I" and other personal pronouns suggest that it is in fact about his life, also since the date they were written is unknown, many suggest that he had been writing them throughout. This differs from the emphasized main character, Don Juan. Each sonnet consisted of three quatrains and an ending couplet and, like Don Juan, followed an iambic pentameter. They discuss an young boy and a dark lady, both believed to have had scandalous relations with Shakespeare. The sonnets are considered non-dramatic and contrast to the narrative style of Don Juan. Byron's poetry is, in my opinion, more interesting to read. One can compare it to other epic poems such as Homer's Odyssey, and can engage in the many literary and historical references. Many characters are introduced, unlike in Shakespeare's sonnets. The story-like style in which Don Juan was written results in a more absorbing read, which is more enjoyable to many readers, including me.

Live?

Smiles,

Laughter,

Moments of success,

Love,

Happiness,

Emotions of joy,

This is Why.

To live,

To love,

To experience,

Often undervalued,

Often overlooked,

Mostly disregarded,

This is the key,

Emotions are the answer,

Life has meaning,

This is Why.

Reaction to Disgrace

Winner of the 1991 Booker Prize, Disgrace, a novel by J.M. Coetzee, left me with a slight feeling of dissatisfaction. I generally liked it, especially its begginning and end. The novel can be described as somewhat plot-driven although it includes many literary and historical allusions. It started by introducing the protagonist, David Lurie, and his main "problem of sex" which may be considered as a theme or motif of the novel. The begginning thows us directly into the polt, grabbing the reader's attention with an interesting use of the present tense describing David's experience with Soraya, a prostitute. The description and introduction to his life during the first few chapters was rather engrossing. During the middle of the book, when he visited his daugter, Lucy, and stayed at her house, a cessastion in the flow of the story could be observed. The author emphasized certain points and repeated many ideas that caused the novel to lose some of its force. I honestly would describe that part as somewhat boring. Later, the reader's interest is reignited as events start to progress and occur at a faster pace. This is approxiamtely when David goes to Isaac to apologize. I liked the ending of the novel; it provides the reader with a sense of closure, and brings their attention back to intial ideas.

I thought the book addressed it's main themes successfully, and touched upon many sensitive issues that are taking place in a post-apatheid South Africa. It explains them in a somewhat discrete yet open, even slightly cynical way. One can truly understand the lives of the characters, especially in relation to one another. Coeztee uses a gripping writing style to keep his readers intersted while portraying many strong messages. 

My personal opinion on whether or not Disgrace deserves the international acclaim and the Booker Prize it has recieved cannot be summarized as a simple yes or no, as with all artstic expression, the verdict is subjective. Although, I do believe that this novel is worthy piece of literature, yet it still has not lefted me in a state of awe. I think that there is something that can be described as slightly obscure that I have not yet fully understood. Upon furthur analysis, my opinion may change, deeming it worthy of such an illustrious prize.

In conclusion I would recomend Disgrace, as it is definitly a worth-while read.

The Shakespeare conspiracy

Is William Shakespeare overrated? 

You may choose to answer this question in terms of his overall genius and impact upon history or in terms of his ability solely as a playwright or a poet. 

Please give some rationale for your opinion along with evidence that you find convincing. My English students should write a well-developed paragraph. The rest of you out there in the void may respond as the spirit leads you.

Willam Shakespeare is a gifted poet and playwright, having poduced many famous works including 38 plays and 154 sonnets. He is probably the most widely known poet of his time with his works translated into mot major languages and is commenly refered to as the greatest writer in the English language. Oftenly named "The Bard", he is sometimes consider England's national poet. 

After reading and analyzing some of his most known work, I, personally, must admit that he is greatly skilled. Through his works he has successfully explored many themes related to various issues of life including love, hate, passion, human nature, fate, time, etc. Though he is an excellent poet, I must add that I consider him slightly overrated, by this I do not mean to undermine his work, yet must note the existence of many other poets of comaprable skill. People often tend to overlook the others when discussing great poets, Shakespeare was successful partly due to fateful opportunity that led to his eventual fame.

As for his actual work, he has produced what can be considered amazing feats of literature, yet upon my actual reading of some, I must admit I was somewhat disappointed. After hearing so much about Romeo and Juliet, I found the acutal play falling slightly short of my expectations. I enjoyed the play emensly but found it somewhat overrated, people had described it as "the greatest love story of all time" and, honestly, it was not what I had anticapated. This is only one example of how Shakespeare is slightly overrated, he has been very successful and deserves most of fame, but I can comfortably conclude that Shakespeare is definetly overreated.

My first Sonnet...The need of a light

Its my first sonnet, it sucks, so be critical!! Constructive Critism!!

Seriously, be honest...I can take it :)

 The future is dark,

A tunnel of uncertainty,

No clear path on which to embark,

Guidance offered limitedly,

 

People come and go,

Often causing voids of despair,

Many shine as others cease to a shadow,

Good riddance I sometimes declare,

 

Old flames linger,

A light shines in the distance,

Laughter now louder,

But clarity requires patience:

 

I embrace the light,

Yet my heart must affirm the sight.

Sonnets? Overrated?

How do you feel about sonnets as a poetic form? Do you like their structure or do you find them too limiting? Use one of the sonnets we have discussed in class or one that you have read on your own as an example of what you mean.


Sonnets, as all forms of poetry, allow writers greater opportunity to express themselves freely, using different forms of figurative language. Its rigid structure has positive and negative aspects. The fourteen line poem, with the first eight lines explaining the problem that the next four lines attempt to offer a solution finally ending a two line conclusion, does provide a sense of stability. It helps the reader understand what to look for and where. For example, Sonnet 2's first two quatrains discusses how it is a shame that the boy's beauty will soon wither away, and is basically asking the question of "How will you preserve your beauty?". The third quatrain suggests that he passes on his beauty to his children. The last two lines, or the couplet, summarizes how that when his beauty will cease, it will continue in "thy blood" or children.

However, this structure is also very limiting. It allows little room for freedom of expression, forcing the writer to maintain a strict outline. This is mainly restricting to the person actually writing the poem, while it could offer a sense of clarity to the readers. Personally, I find sonnets, in general, too limiting. I prefer less restricting types of poems, where authors have the ability to express themselves freely.

Disgrace: 1-4

1. The first line of the novel begins with "For a man of his age, fifty-two, divorced, he has, to his mind, solved the problem of sex rather well." What is the "problem" that he has solved? Has he really solved it?

Disgrace begins with "For a man of his age, fifty-two, divorced, he has, to his mid, solved the problem of sex rather well." The problem referred to is David Lurie's desire for sex. Initially, he believed that he had solved the problem, or simply satisfied his needs, with the weekly session with Soraya, a hired prostitute. Even when courting her, it is debatable whether he has solved his "problem". His "sessions" can be viewed as a type of drug that simply palliates the pain; nothing is solved, yet a feeling of satisfaction is present. This is what David Lurie suffers from, he is deluded by the fake sense of gratification he is receiving. Later in the novel, David pursues Melanie, his own student, as another "solution" to his problems. He presumes that she will solve his problems, when she too is only a simple, temporary, solution. 

The narrator indicates this idea by emphasizing the phrase, "to his mind", suggesting that only David believes the problem has been solved. This provides some insight into David Lurie's character, who is portrayed to be somewhat emotionless conveying a strong sense of indifference. His past reveals two prior divorces, leaving him with a void which he attempts to fill with meaningless relations. In conclusion, David Lurie's has not been successful in his attempt to solve the "problem", he has merely numbed the pain, resulting in a false sense of fulfillment.

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