TOW #29: Letter to a New APELC Student

To the futures students of APELC,

I would first like to warn you to not believe the rumors and horror stories of analyzing incomprehensible texts and receiving low grades on essays in AP English and Composition. I once believed such stories that I considered not taking APELC; however I am glad that I did. APELC has been a great class where I have grown closer to those in my class, due to the small number of students, while becoming a better educated student and citizen.

Throughout the year, I can honestly look back and see the drastic improvement in my writing skills. This can be seen not only through the grades that I have received on my essays, but also in my way of thinking that can be seen through my writing. This course has taught me to become a writer who is more educated, more informed, and more mature. My ability to analyze and argue has improved due to the two units that are centered on these two forms of writing. Despite the beginning, which was a bit rough and difficult, I was able to quickly adapt to and improve in the course.

Over the eight months, I advise you to not be disappointed in the beginning of the course. Do not be upset about the first score you receive for your summer essay about Eats, Shoots, and Leaves; the first score is merely a baseline so that you can understand where you, as a writer, are at, and the score shows you the areas where you can improve. In addition, I recommend you to make use of the resources you have around you; I have learned to appreciate the Office Hours that are held every week. The Office Hours provide a time to meet with Mr. Yost for review for Unit Tests and essays. I strongly advise you to take advantage of the meetings. Through frequently meeting with Mr. Yost and Ms. Pronko, I have seen a drastic increase in my writing ability and in my essay scores.

This course that you are about to enter will be difficult at times; the texts may require hours to analyze and dissect, the essays will require much more time for brain-storming and revising, and the projects will consume some of your free time. However, the work, the stress, and the hours of sleep you may have sacrificed will all be worth it in the end. The moment after you finish your APELC Exam and sign your name of the exam date poster is exhilarating. You are able to reflect and honestly say that your writing skills have improved and that your way of thinking was changed. You realize the importance of becoming an educated, active participant in your community, which this course tries to help you become.

TOW #28: TOW Reflection

From the many TOWs that have completed over the span of about seven to eight months, I am able to see growth and improvement in my writing through: changes in my ability to write clearly and fluidly and the establishment of a more sophisticated tone. As I re-read the TOWs from the beginning of the year, I noticed my lack of topic sentences; therefore, I was unable to properly introduce the purpose of the paragraph. In addition, I saw that I did not create strong theses with consequences that connected them to a bigger idea. However, as time passed, my writing progressed. Not only has my writing improved grammatically, but I was also able to create my own voice that now distinguishes me from my peers.

Rather than mastering, I believe that I have greatly improved so that I am on my way to mastering my writing skills. Over time, I think that my ability to create a stronger thesis has immensely improved; I now understand the importance of the three components that a thesis must consist of: context, claim, and consequence. In addition, I try to have a stronger conclusion that answers the question of "So What?" All these improvements reflect, in my opinion, how I have almost mastered the mentality and mindset I am to have as a writer. I now have a better idea about the mind and thoughts of my audience, and I try to accommodate my writing to provide as much clarity as possible.

Despite my improvements, there are still many areas in my writing where I can improve and grow. I can always strive for being more concise with my writing; I often find that the peer advice given on my Timed Essays suggest being less repetitive. Another thing I can strive to improve is my vocabulary so that I will be able to express and relay my ideas and messages in a better, clearer way.

Overall, I believe that the results I have received from the many TOWs I had to write was well-worth the effort. The TOWs constantly made me practice my ability to analyze different types of texts. I think this reflected in my increasing scores for my Analysis essays; the Analysis portion was my weakest section, yet now, I am more confident when it comes to analysis. The practice that I have received also prepared me for the Mock and the AP Exam. With a diverse group of texts, from visual texts to autobiographies, I felt ready to tackle any kind of analysis that I was expected to complete. 

TOW #27: Written - "Inaugural Address" by John F. Kennedy

http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=8032

With the scare of Communism, the Cold War, and the conflict with Vietnam, the United States was in an unstable situation; the future president, who must be chosen wisely, had a heavy burden and weight on his shoulders. President John F. Kennedy understood the importance of his term, which is seen in his inaugural address. By utilizing an optimistic tone and chiasmus, Kennedy reassures the American people by speaking of a time of change and transition.

President Kennedy knew that the inaugural address would be a small reflection of his term as president; Kennedy established an optimistic, hopeful tone to provide a fighting spirit and peace to the American people who were fearful of the chaos. As Kennedy states that "the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans" and  "let us begin anew," the president speaks of a transitioning period, in which there will be a new start and a new age of America. In addition, Kennedy states that "the energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it--and the glow from that fire can truly light the world," which, once again, shows Kennedy's attempts of bringing reassurance and hope for the future under his guidance and leadership.

One of the most famous lines from President Kennedy's speech is "and so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country." This famous usage of chiasmsus gives the effect of parallel structure, which allows the ending of Kennedy's address be memorable and easy to understand. Not only does the usage of chiasmsus help Kennedy's flow and impact, but it also gives a call to action to the people. In the beginning of Kennedy's speech, he specifically addresses nations, adversaries, and the world. The transition from the address to the world to the address to the people is powerful; Kennedy stresses that in order to achieve the hope and peace that the country desires, the people must also take an active role. 

In a time of chaos and fear, Kennedy's inaugural address has been remembered throughout history due its brilliant usage of rhetoric that addressed the problems that occurred at the time. With his usage of an optimistic tone and chiasmsus, Kennedy successfully reassures the American people. As the inaugural address signified Kennedy's first words as president, he understood the weight of his words and with his meticulous selection of rhetoric, Kennedy's entrance into the presidency is one to remember.  

TOW #26: Written - "Sinews of Peace (Iron Curtain Speech)" by Winston Churchill

The craze and chaos due to Communism has terrorized America for about a decade after World War II. As United States's former ally in World War II, the USSR has refused to remove its hold and influence over a part of Germany, America attempted to intervene. The USSR was influencing the surrounding nations as well, such as Poland and potentially Greece and Turkey. With the worry of Communism spreading throughout Europe, western democracies, specifically America and Britain, attempted to preserve and prolong democracy. In Winston Churchill's famous speech, Sinews of Peace, he utilizes a famous metaphor and inclusive diction to advocate a call to action: unite together to achieve peace.

The famous metaphor that Churchill mentions is the comparison of the Communist nations in Europe to an iron curtain; this usage of figurative language shows the invisible potential harm that can be caused due to unawareness, which must be prevented through unification and combined efforts. Churchill states that "in front of the iron curtain which lies across Europe are other causes for anxiety" (1), reflecting the potential dangers that accompany the unknown happening and plannings of Communist nations. In a time where the world is worrisome and suspicious of other nations, due to World War II which ended not long ago, Churchill stresses the potential harm of the lack of democracy via his metaphor.

Throughout Churchill's speech, he continuously uses the words "we" and "our" in order to have an inclusive tone that seems to unite himself not only with the audience, but with all of America. Churchill mentions that "the safety of the world, ladies and gentlemen, requires a new unity in Europe, from which no nation should be permanently outcast" (1), and he displays his attitude towards unity by his diction. With a mindset that already displays unity, Churchill, through his inclusive diction, shows that the nations must stand together to combat against the unknown dangers of Communism while preserving democracy.

The effectiveness of Winston Churchill's rallying speech is evident through the combined efforts of Western democratic nations in the fight for democracy for all. By utilizing a brilliant metaphor and inclusive diction, Churchill is not only able to successfully relay a call to action (to unite together), but also is able to place a sense of responsibility on the shoulders of free nations. Churchill's speech shows that it is in the hands of those who are free to save those who are, apparently, oppressed by the chains of Communism

Source: http://historyguide.org/europe/churchill.html

TOW #25: Visual: "Hope" by Shepard Fairey

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ben-arnon/how-the-obama-hope-poster_b_133874.html

 In 2008, the election for the next president of the United States of America took place. With Barack Obama as the candidate for the Democratic party and John McCain as the candidate for the Republican party, the election received much participation and passion due to one of the candidates. If elected, Barack Obama would become the first African-American president. Associated with Obama's campaigning is an iconic poster that attempts to represent the nature of Obama. Shepard Fairey was the artist who created this poster. known as "Hope". Fairey has utilized color scheme and modern, street-style art to appeal to citizens to vote for Obama for president.

As the poster uses the colors red, white, and blue, Obama is pictured to be comprised of those three colors. This famous color combination is a symbol of the United States. The symbolism of the color scheme would be that Obama reflects America; he understands the desires, needs, and hopes of the American people. As the president, Obama must represent the entire nation, and that is what he attempts to display through the color scheme of the poster. In addition, the red, white, and blue is utilized to show patriotism and pride in the country that he hopes to lead. Such a color scheme appeals to the people because this displays Obama in a positive, approachable, and trust-worthy light that he will fairly and justly represent the citizens.

The street style of art, which Fairey says he uses in the interview with the Huffington Post, shows Obama in a more familiar and modern way. As the times are changing, Obama is reflecting that he is a modern president who understands America today. The street style of art shows how Obama is president who is able to lead America in the modern 21st century. In addition, the street style of art seems to target a specific audience: young adults. To draw young voters to the polls, the street style of art is both appealing and eye-catching to the younger target audience. This appeal of a specific type of art and art technique has changed the view of politics and addresses a specific group of potential voters and supporters of Obama's campaign.

With the iconic "Hope" poster that has changed the ways of campaigning, Fairey uses color scheme and modern, street-style art to appeal to voters and show Obama in a positive light that may help him become president. The success of such campaigning can be reflected in the results of the 2008 presidential election; Obama won the seat of office against McCain. Not only has Obama successfully persuaded the American people, but his campaigning has taught many the new ways of advertising and campaigning that can be used in modern times.

TOW #24: IRB - "Hole in My Life" by Jack Gantos

As Gantos vividly gives an account of his life experiences, from his early adulthood to his time in prison, Jack Gantos is able to draw in the reader. After successfully pulling in the reader to his rich style of word articulation, Gantos is able to reveal a deeper meaning behind his autobiography; not only does the book entertain the reader, but it also teaches important life lessons centered around perseverance and overcoming obstacles. These lessons which Gantos instills into the reader are even able to be seen through the publication of the book. Gantos, an aspiring writer, has pushed through trials and tribulations from his days of drug dealing to the day he was able to publish his autobiography. Through Gantos's usage of a colloquial, casual tone and humor allows him to share his experiences in a way that is funny and entertaining, while also enlightening.

Along with Gantos's vivid details about his life, Gantos's use of a casual, colloquial tone establishes a more intimate and familiar connection between Gantos and the reader in order to both show his life story and share the lessons he has learned. Through the repeated use of "I" and colloquial words such as "dope", "joint", and "Feds", the slang and colloquialism used by Gantos creates a casual tone. This tone helps Gantos share his story in a way that is informal and more personal. Through using colloquialism, Gantos utilizes a casual tone that helps him entertain and inform the reader. Though the casual tone is light hearted at times, the colloquialism allows Gantos to be brutally honest in his thoughts and expressions. One example of this is seen when Gantos reveals his fears and anxieties of encountering danger in the prison with other prisoners. Sharing that "I was brginning to fill up with fear and wanted to put some distance between us...It was just twenty-four hours since I had been sentenced and I knew I was in way over my head" (153), Gantos's colloquialism and tone creates emotion and a more personal connection between the reader and the narrator, Gantos.

Gantos's use of humor while writing about a heavy topic such as his experiences in drug-dealing and time in prison aids Gantos in entertaining the reader while also teaching an important lesson. Many examples are able to be found throughout the entire autobiography. One example that particularly stuck out was when Gantos describes his face: "because the skin of my face was so messed up it was difficult ot shave properly, so my shaving became and exercise in landscaping-as if I were shaving around flower beds and trees and rocky outcroppings" (174). Not only does the usage of humor aid in establishing the entertaining, casual tone, but it also reflects the lessons and morals Gantos, himself, learns. Gantos repeatedly states that it is important to preserve and be the best version of oneself that he can be. The usage of humor, even while describing his time in prison, shows how Gantos is applying what he has learned from his experiences: continuing on, remaining optimistic, and being true to oneself.

Gantos's autobiography, Hole in My Life, is evidence of the power of perseverance and optimism. Though Jack Gantos hit rock bottom when he had to take all the blame for the drug transactions, Gantos continued to perservere through the obstacles in his life and do what he loved: write. By utilizing colloquialism to create a casual tone and humor to entertain while enlighten the reader, Gantos shares his experiences to teach and enlighten the reader. The story of Jack Gantos is a reminder to the reader that despite how dark and dim one's situation may be, the best possible thing one can do is persevere and continue on while enduring and overcoming trials and tribulations.

TOW #23: Written - "Declaration of Sentiments" by Elizabeth Cady Stanton

As the middle of the 19th century was filled with religious passion and drive for reform, the United States, after the Second Great Awakening, attempted and successfully provided reform and change for several different causes such as jails and the education system. However, an unpopular cause known as the fight for Women's Suffrage was shunned and looked down upon. During a time period where women were deemed inferior both physically and socially in comparison to men, the reform for Women's Suffrage was a long battle fought by both men and women who continued to persevere despite the obstacles that stood in their way. A prime example of such a reformist is Elizabeth Cady Stanton, an active leader in beginning of the reform for Women's Suffrage. The famous text composed by Stanton is known as the Declaration of Sentiments. Through Stanton's brilliant use of arrangement and inductive and deductive reasoning, Stanton shows the contradicting words and actions of America; this, in turn, aids in Stanton's attempt to rally support for Women's Suffrage.

The Declaration of Sentiments is inspired, arranged, and based off of another famous document in America's history: the Declaration of Independence. As the Declaration of Independence was penned by Thomas Jefferson as an act of officially declaring rebellion against the tyrant, King George III, Stanton realized similarities between the proclamation of the colonists and the mission of the Women's Suffrage activists. Stanton uses famous phrases such as "we hold these truths to be self-evident" and "that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" (1). However, a change and clarification that Stanton makes in her unique arrangement, which is based off of the Declaration of Independence, is the addition of a few words which causes the audience to question who the rights and freedoms of America apply to. This change that states "that all men and women are created equal" is shocking and radical; never before has the usage of the arrangement of a previous document been used to support a fight for women's right to vote. The arrangement of Stanton's document has similarities with the Jefferson's document; this brilliant idea of Stanton guides her audience to question and see that the freedoms and natural rights apply not only to men, but also to all women.

Similarly to the Declaration of Independence, Stanton exhibits a brilliant use of inductive and deductive reasoning to help support her reasoning and persuasion. Like the Declaration of Independence, the deductive reasoning Stanton utilizes is simply:

1. Major Premise: People have the duty and right to throw off, or change, a government that abuses the rights of the people.
2. Minor Premise:  The women of America are having their rights abused by not legally gaining the right to vote.
3. Conclusion: Therefore, the women of America have the duty and right to protest for women's suffrage. 

Stanton's thought process, which is very similar to that of Jefferson is easily identifiable in the introduction of the document, specifically the first few paragraphs. In addition, Stanton also uses inductive reasoning to support her minor premise; this provides evidence and reasons that justify the claim the minor premise makes. Such usage of inductive reasoning is seen when Stanton writes that "He has never permitted her to exercise her inalienable right to the elective franchise. He has compelled her to submit to laws, in the formation of which she had no voice" (1). Elizabeth Cady Stanton lists several more justifications, helping lead to the conclusion which is the minor premise in deductive reasoning. By utilizing inductive and deductive reasoning, Stanton shows the clear details and grounds of the fight for women's suffrage.

Though America is supposed to represent equality, liberty, and democracy, Elizabeth Cady Stanton expresses, through her composition of Declaration of Sentiments that these ideals are contradictory to what is actually occurring in America: women are being denied the right to participate in government and are refused suffrage. As Stanton uses arrangement along with inductive and deductive reasoning, Stanton highlights and augments the flaws of America in a classy manner that imitates the famed Declaration of Independence.

TOW #22: Written - "Duty, Honor, Country" by General Douglas MacArthur

On May 12, 1962, General Douglas MacArthur was recognized and given the Sylvanus Thayer Award, an accolade awarded every year to one who encompasses and exemplifies the award's motto of "Duty, Honor, Country." In MacArthur's strong speech, he addresses and explains the mentality soldiers must have: remembering the purpose for which they became soldiers for their country. By utilizing rhetoric such as anaphora and repetition of the award's motto, MacArthur speaks of the characteristics that define a soldier and the importance of a soldier remembering his purpose.

When delivering his speech, MacArthur frequently uses anaphora to aid in his fluidity, his rhythm, and his emotional build-up towards the conclusion of his speech. Through the use of anaphora such as "whether our strength is being sapped by deficit financing, indulged in too long, by federal paternalism grown too mighty, by power groups grown too arrogant...” (1), MacArthur emphasizes and stresses the importance of remembering the three words “Duty, Honor, Country” in all circumstances; despite whatever obstacles may be such as a loss in strength, as seen in the quote, MacArthur explains that soldiers must continue to fight on. It is the soldiers duty, emphasized through anaphora, to endure and persevere. The effects of MacArthur’s anaphora are a rhythm to his speech and an emotional tie to MacArthur’s speech.

As the motto of the Sylvanus Thayer Award is “Duty, Honor, Country,” MacArthur repeatedly references and utilizes this phrase in his argument and in his speech; such usage helps address the event at which MacArthur is speaking at and also stresses three simple words that encompass the nature of a soldier. Stating that “the very obsession of your public service must be: Duty, Honor, Country” and “Your guidepost stands out like a ten-fold beacon in the night: Duty, Honor, Country” (1), MacArthur is addressing soldiers in the majority of his speech. By repeating the motto of the award, MacArthur shares possible events and times when soldiers must remember the three simple words. Previously in his speech, MacArthur speaks of the common characteristics found in soldiers; now, he sums up all the soldiers’ attributes into “Duty, Honor, Country.”

After years of war in the first half of the 20^th century such as World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, America has endured much. General Douglas MacArthur uplifts and praises the soldiers who have died, who are in combat, and who continue to sacrifice for the nation. In his speech Duty, Honor, Country, MacArthur not only explains the importance of the motto to the soldier, but also reminds the audience of the heroic deeds of all people who selflessly sacrificed themselves for the sake of the country. As they were “on the other side of the globe” in “filth of murky foxholes” with “the stench of ghostly trenches, the slime of dripping dugouts” (1), General MacArthur humbly states that the award does not “honor a personality”, but “symbolize a great moral code” (1), which all soldiers express.

TOW #21: Visual - "We Can Do It!" by J.Howard Miller

wikipedia.org

The iconic poster known as "We Can Do It!" or "Rosie the Riveter" has been utilized in the 1940s during World War II, the 1980s during the feminist movement, and recently to celebrate the accomplishments of women throughout history. Flexing her muscles, the woman in the picture is tough and strong, a combination that was unusual in the 1940s when this poster was made. Yet, through its depiction of a resilient woman and its usage of four simple words "We Can Do It!" the poster accomplishes its purpose: rallying the war spirit while motivating women to join the work force. However, this poster's power does not simply stop after World War II; even today, the poster illustrates the power women have, leading to a battle for gender equality along with motivating and encouraging women of today.

The depiction of a strong woman is one that differs from the idea that women are inferior and weaker than men; thus, this shocking, drastically different portrayal of a woman encouraged women to take a more active role in society. During World War II, many women joined the work force and took the jobs of the men who were at war. With an increase in employed women, the poster shows that women loved the depiction of an independent, tough woman. In addition, the color scheme of the depiction is red, white, and blue, reflecting a patriotic attitude that the woman should have: they are doing work and labor for the good of their country. Lastly, the facial expression and the hairstyle of the woman shows that the woman depicted in the poster does not agree with the idea that women are weak. The bandana shows a hairstyle that, rather than being meant for aesthetic reasons, is practical and suits the job. The facial expression of the woman is determined, guiding women viewers to imagine themselves as the female shown in the poster.

Four simple words have become famous for its concision and effectiveness. "We Can Do It!" is seen being spoken by the woman in the poster. This mentality of perseverance and determination is both brave and admirable for all viewers. As women were beginning to play a more active role in the war effort, the phrase seen on the poster became iconic for its positive tone and the use of first person. With "we", all women are included; this, in turn, creates a sense of unity that reminds women of the strength in number. The famous phrase's effectiveness is seen in the long lasting use of these four words along with the short sentence being the name of the well-known poster.

The physical depiction of the woman along with the concise statement of "We Can Do It!" creates a sense of unity and a calling for those who desire to make a difference in the war effort, women specifically. As the main objective of this advertisement was to attract potential female workers to work in a specific factory or company, the accomplishments of this poster exceeds that. This poster has become a famed use of propaganda and advertisement that pertains not only to the era of the 1940s, but also to today. The poster does not simply show a working woman, but effectively displays the true power and strength a woman has.

TOW #20: IRB - "Hole In My Life" by Jack Gantos

wisconsinjustin.weebly.com

 Jack Gantos is a true example of the power of learning from one's previous mistakes. In his memoir, Hole In My Life, Gantos writes about his life before, in, and after prison. With his use of colloquialism, humor, and personal experiences, Gantos teaches the reader the importance of optimism, perseverance, and recovering from what one believes to be rock-bottom. Hole In My Life is not simply a memoir, but the writing of one's life experiences about mistakes, redemption, and courage.

Gantos's use of humor and colloquialism is a perfect combination for teaching the reader about perseverance and redemption; these two devices, used together, allow Gantos to share his life story in a way that is entertaining and enlightening. By using colloquialism, Gantos successfully reaches to his audience; his tone, which is created from colloquialism, is informal and his use of humor displays Gantos in an honest light. Presenting himself in an informal way to the audience, Gantos is able to connect with the reader on a more personal level and educate the reader about the importance of optimism, redemption, and perseverance in a way that is neither boring nor too commanding. The presentation of Gantos, by himself, is more casual and relate-able to the audience. Therefore, it is easier for the author to relay his dark and heavy memories in prison. The memoir itself, with its humor and colloquialism, is an example of finding the good and being optimistic in times of depression and defeat. His true meaning is captured when Gantos writes, "I made a lot of mistakes, and went to jail, but I wasn't on the road to ruin like everyone said. While I was locked up, I pulled myself together and made some good decisions" (8). His humor and colloquialism is straight-forward and shows Gantos's ability to redeem himself and persevere.

In addition, Gantos's usage of personal experiences allows Gantos to have credibility in the message he is trying to share to the reader. From the very beginning, Jack Gantos begins by describing his mug shot in prison. By immediately delving into his personal experiences, whether it be describing the time of being kicked out of the Bacon family's house or the decisions he makes to enter the drug selling business with Tim Scanlon, the personal story of Jack Gantos is an example of the significance of learning from one's mistakes and redeeming oneself. The honest personal thoughts of Gantos, such as when he believed that he had nothing in common with the four prisoners who visited his high school, along with his personal experiences allows Gantos to achieve both ethos and pathos to help achieve his purpose.

From the first half of his memoir, Jack Gantos already starts educating the reader about the importance of optimism, perseverance, and redemption. By using humor, colloquialism, and personal experiences, Gantos displays his true nature; along with his hopes and dreams, he acknowledges and recognizes his mistakes and flaws. Through humor, colloquialism, and personal experiences Gantos successfully achieves his purpose and, through his writing, shows bravery and courage by the sharing of his personal struggles.

TOW #19: Written - "Pearl Harbor Address to the Union" by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt

http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/fdrpearlharbor.htm

 After the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor in Oahu, Hawaii by Japan, the United States was in a state of chaos. With a World War II raging on in many different countries in Europe, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor made the war more personal for the people of America. Delivering an address to the country the day after the attack on December 8, 1941, former president Franklin D. Roosevelt brings comfort and arouses a fighting spirit that America is known for. By utilizing repetition and uniting diction and phrases to rally the American people as the U.S. prepares to go to war.

Roosevelt uses repetition to stress the wrong misdoings of Japan and to personalize the war to America. By repeating the phrase "last night, Japanese forces attacked", the president provides background information about the war occurring in the world around the nation. After repeating this phrase three times and listing various countries and islands that were devastated by the war, the phrase "and this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island" follows. The repetition allows the build up of tension and emotion to the final mention of the attack on Midway Island, which is an American territory. Repetition emphasizes the attacks of Japan and allows Roosevelt to deliver the final punch-line of the Japanese eventually attacking the home-front. In addition, Roosevelt's usage of repetition in "yesterday", seen four times throughout his entire speech, reminds the audience of the fresh wounds Japan has caused. The emphasis on time, in his repeated use of "yesterday", guides the audience to remember Pearl Harbor and the feelings of anger, sadness, and patriotism that accompanied the attack.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt utilizes uniting diction and phrases to unite the people in a time where war is quickly approaching in order to rally a fighting spirit; this, in turn, allows the U.S. to officially enter World War II. Throughout Roosevelt's short address, phrases such as "the people of the United States," "our nation," and "our whole nation" are used. The diction of "our", which is the perspective of first person, brings forth emotions of unity and oneness. By stressing America and the American people being one, the president emphasizes that the whole country is affected; therefore, since the president reflects and shares the opinions of the people (as Roosevelt states), that action must be taken. Such uniting diction and phrases rallies support for the country entering into World War II and arouses a fighting spirit, nationalism, and patriotism. By using Pearl Harbor as a vehicle, the United States will eventually enter the war.

Through Roosevelt's usage of repetition and uniting diction and phrases, the president is able to show the wrongdoings of Japan, unite the nation, comfort the country, and help convince the people that action must be done. Roosevelt's effectiveness is seen when the United States enters the war with the Allies. In a time of chaos and outrage, the president successfully addresses the attack on Pearl Harbor and emphasizes, yet again, that America is a nation that will not tolerate for injustice.

TOW #18: Written - "Bop" by Langston Hughes

Every time a policeman's club hits the head of a colored man, it makes the sound bop. Written in1949, Bop reflects the true essence of inequality and the social hierarchy created by color. In Langston Hughes short essay, he utilizes symbolism and onomatopoeia to show the separation between colored and whites and also to describe the mistreatment of African Americans. By using such devices, Hughes is able to augment the distorted view of segregation.

From the very beginning, Hughes shows the division between "white boys" and "colored boys" by the interpretation of music. Hughes shows the contrast between the ability to understand the meaning of Dizzy Gillespie's record playing Bop. Hughes then elaborates that the interpretation of the record is much greater than the difference "between Re and Be" when singing the lyrics, for "Be-Bop is the real thing like the colored boys play" (190). The record is a symbol of the inequality at the time. As the record is able to be sung and interpreted different ways, the different lyrics of Bop reflects the treatment of different races. Hughes explains that "folks who ain't suffered much cannot play Bop, neither appreciate it. They think Bop is nonsense" (191), meaning that a true understanding of the evils of segregation cannot be understood unless experienced. This goes hand-in-hand with the idea the record being sung different ways. The "white folks" who find "it so hard to imitate" are unable to do so for they do not comprehend the depressing history of the song (191). The record, Bop, acts as a symbol throughout the short essay to reflect the segregation and inequality at the time.

Hughes also utilizes onomatopoeia to illustrate the mistreatment of African Americans. By using words such as "Mop! Mop...Be-Bop!....Mop!" (191), Hughes is able to achieve his purpose through pathos. The sounds in the short essay are meant to imitate the sound a club would make when beating someone on the head. Hughes explicitly states that "from the police beating Negroes' heads...that old club says, 'Bop!" (191), showing that the title of the record and the meaning of the lyrics derives from hatred and racism. The onomatopoeia word, Bop, is repeated about 25 times throughout the three-page essay. Hughes stress on onomatopoeia illustrates the repeated actions of violence and inequality.

By utilizing symbolism and onomatopoeia, Langston Hughes is able to show the segregation and inequality between whites and African Americans. The record, Bop, not only holds a depressing history of racism, but also is a story many African Americans are able to reflect to, as seen when Hughes writes that "them young colored kids who started it, they know what Bop is" (192). Through Hughes's writing, he is able to show racism and inequality while illustrating the fighting spirit of Civil Rights Activists in the fight for equality regardless of color.

IRB Intro #3: Hole In My Life by Jack Gantos

www.goodreads.com

In the past, my two IRB books have been based on research and teachings. Released in the earlier time periods, I decided to read a more modern book. Immediately, the summary on the back of this book, Hole in My Life, shows that this book is very different in comparison to The Prince and Civilization and Its Discontents. I am excited to read this memoir for it sounds thrilling, exhilarating, fast-paced, and entertaining. In addition, I thought that an analysis for this type of genre would be a good change.

TOW #17: Visual - Cartoon in Response to Charlie Hebdo Attack (by Joep Betrams)

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On January 7, 2015, Joep Betrams, a famous cartoonist, shared the cartoon, seen above, on Twitter in response to the terrorist attack on the satirical journal, Charlie Hebdo. As terrorists barged and forced their way into the headquarters of Charlie Hebdo in Pairs, cartoonists were killed and the world was outraged. Attacking due to the controversial political and religious cartoons released by the newspaper, Islamic terrorists attempted to silence the cartoonists and reporters of Charlie Hebdo by brute force. Yet, the response to the attack shows that the killing of writers did not silence them, but caused an outbreak in the freedom of press and the freedom of speech. The cartoon by Joep Betrams, one of many released, shows the spirit of journalism and the press and the ineffective attempt to silence the world.

The true fighting spirit of the press and journalism is seen by the cartoon. Despite the Islamic terrorist killing the man, who is wearing a shirt labeled Charlie Hebdo, the man is not dead. Though a head is missing from his body, the tongue continues to taunt the shocked terrorist. The connection between the blood dripping off the terrorist's sword and the headless body allows one to understand that this depiction coorelates with the killing of satirists, writers, and cartoonists of Charlie Hebdo. Even though the man is missing a head, the tongue is still active. This taunting tongue symbolizes the freedom of speech and press. Charlie Hebdo will not stop utilizing the freedoms of speech and press that it has. On a bigger scale, this cartoon represents the spirit of the press and journalism by showing that it is impossible to stop, silence, and prevent the world from being stripped of its freedoms. No matter what terrorists do, this cartoon shows that all attempts are futile and that journalists, the press, and the world will respond with the unstoppable, unbeatable power of words.

The tongue taunting the man not only depicts the fighting spirit of the press and journalism, but also sends a message to terrorists and potential attackers of Charlie Hebdo and any other news source. In the picture, the terrorist shows an expression of shock and disbelief that the man, who lacks a head, is still able to use his tongue. Though attackers attempt to strike fear into the hearts of the people to stop further unwanted action, this cartoon shows the unifying effect that the killing caused. Charlie Hebdo is being supported by cartoonists, like Joep Betrams, and many other people around the world. This cartoon shows that even though the terrorists may believe that they were successful for killing men and women, they were unsuccessful and the attack was ineffective for instead of silencing the world, they only stirred up more conversations about the importance of freedom.

The cartoon, made by Joep Betrams in response to the terrorist attack, shows the true, fighting spirit of the press and journalism and relays a message to terrorists that their attack was unsuccessful. The attack on Charlie Hebdo reflects the power words hold. In a time of chaos, murders, and destruction, guns are not the only weapons people can use. Words have the capability of implementing harm and damage. It is the job of the people to protect the rights to the freedom of the expression, freedom of speech, and the freedom of the press. A silent world that has been struck with fear will not grow. A world bustling with ideas and uninhibited speech is crucial to developing a better world. The cartoon provides courage to the people and relays a message of perseverance and resistance that the people will not fall to fear, but will, all the more, speak.

TOW #16: IRB - "The Prince" by Niccolo Machiavelli

As The Prince was a manual on how a principality should rule, not only is it an outline, but every point made by Machiavelli is its own argument. The way Machiavelli speaks about his version of an ideal government is simplistic and straight-forward. Machiavelli uses comparisons and references to previous governments and rulers in history to provide concrete evidence for his arguments in order to convince his audience. With Machiavelli's manual of how tow to manage and become a strong state, his recipe for gaining and maintaining sovereign power has been revolutionary. His stance on the issues of politics and morality continue have questioned people for centuries, even until today.

Through his detailed writing, Machiavelli shows, by physical length and description, that there are many aspects of a government that must be run properly in order to be and remain successful; by using comparisons, Machiavelli provides evidence to support his claims. An example of Machiavelli's use of comparisons is seen when comparing auxiliaries, which he claims are "the other useless kind of troops" (83) to a mercenary army. Machiavelli state that "auxiliaries are fatal; they constitute a united army, wholly obedient to the orders of someone else; but mercenaries, having conquered, need more time and opportunity to harm you...wise princes, therefore, have always shunned auxiliaries and made use of their own forces" (84), showing two major points of Machiavelli's arguments seen in many chapters: a prince must be the leader of the military and that arms must be used. In this comparison, Machiavelli states that auxilaries are fatal due to the lack of connection between the soldiers and the prince, while mercenaries, which were conquered by the prince, are the better option. This comparison that Machiavelli uses shows not only the best option for weaponry, but also ruling. The comparisons provide evidence to further support his claims, helping him convince his audience: Medici.

Throughout the entire book, Machiavelli shows his knowledge for politics through the studies of previous rulers and governments. Displaying this knowledge in his writing, Machiavelli uses references to previous principalities and states as concrete, historical evidence to show the qualities that lead to the downfall of such governments, and how to avoid the same fate. An example of Machiavelli's usage of history is seen when he famously discusses cruelty and compassion in Chapter XVII. Stating that "Cesare Borgia was accounted cruel; nevertheless, this cruelty of his reformed the Romagna, brought it unity and restored order and obedience" (95). This example of the Duke of Valentinois expands upon Machiavelli's point that cruelty and fear is, at times, needed to provide the best for the state and the people. Using concrete examples, especially ones of history, help Machiavelli in his arguments of how to avoid the deathly downfall that other principalities have reached.

Machiavelli, in his famous book, The Prince, uses comparisons and references to previous rulers and governments in order to provide concrete evidence for his arguments; thus, his arguments are more persuasive. The effective argumentation that Machiavelli uses, along with his straight-forward claims and descriptive content, has made a lasting impression on the world. Many rulers have followed Machiavelli's points in order to create the best state possible. Though some of his ideas are morally and politically questionable, Machiavelli makes readers question, even until today, to what extent a ruler must go so that his state may thrive.

TOW #15: Visual - Evolution by Dove

The depiction of beauty is becoming distorted due to false presentations of the version of a beautiful woman. An advertising campaign was released by Unilever in 2006, for the Dove Self-Esteem Project, called Evolution. In a little over a minute, the commercial illustrates how media is affecting the perception of beauty. With its many awards and nominations, the advertisement has received critical acclaim for its representation of the cold, hard truth about the world; the mentality about beauty is horrifically distorted and gaining this type of beauty is impossible and unattainable. Evolution shows the process of Photoshop and the comparison of before and after to prove how society's expectations of beauty are unreal and artificial.

Throughout the entire video, the photo of the model is seen receiving touch-ups, enhancement, and slimming to create an almost unrecognizable person as the end result. By showing the process of Photoshop being done on the model, one can see that the model herself is not perfect. The Photoshop illustrates how the desired features and the overall perception of a woman's beauty are almost impossible to attain. The model has flaws that are edited, windblown hair that is artificially created, and the perfect bone structure must be produced digitally. As the message of the campaign is to improve the self-esteem of many girls, the commercial reassures its audience that the beauty seen on television and magazines is not real.

In the image below, the comparison of before and after is seen; this depicts the power that Photoshop and makeup has and also how companies change the appearance of their models to appear more aesthetically appealing to the world. The two pictures, placed side by side, augment the artificial beauty that society deems to be desired. As this image is the promotional image of Evolution, it captures the true reason behind the commercial: the beauty that is advertised is superficial and unreal.

By showing the process of Photoshop and exhibiting the before and after phases of the photo shoot, the Dove Self-Esteem Project successfully proves that society's expectations of beauty are not real. As the Dove Self-Esteem Project attempts to help girls overcome anxieties over beauty and self-image, the commercial illustrates that even women, who appear flawless and perfect, have flaws and quirks that makes them unique. The fight against society's perception of beauty continues to rage on, and the awareness being spread by this commercial and the Dove Self-Esteem Project helps girls grow to become confident women who are beautiful in their own ways.

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