This is one of the rare free posts in which I do not know what to write....so I will continue a draft version of a paper I am writing currently. This paper is a commentary on the poetic and linguistic construction of a Rudyard Kipling poem called "How Fear Came." It goes like this:
The stream is shrunk – the pool is dry,
And we be comrades, thou and I;
With fevered jowl and dusty flank
Each jostling each along the bank;
And by one drouthy fear made still,
Forgoing thought of quest or kill.
Now ‘neath his dam the fawn may see,
The lean pack-Wolf as cowed as he,
And the tall buck, unflinching, note
The fangs that tore his father’s throat.
The pools are shrunk – the streams are dry.
And we be playmates, thou and I,
Till yonder cloud – Good Hunting! – loose
The rain that breaks our Water Truce.
- Rudyard Kipling
from The Jungle Book’s “How Fear Came,” 1894
Now, this is not my free post (that would be against the rules - old Rudyard wrote this, not me!).
Here's my in-production draft commentary:
Much of what was unsaid – the silential relations of the text – occurred in the poetic devices implemented. These were mentioned in the commentaries below each line, and included such devices as epanalepsis, anaphora, chiasmus, repetition, and polyptoton to name a few. Kipling artfully implemented their use, and I resolved to either leave them untouched or preserve at least a related meaning in translation.
In contemplating the experience, one may realize that much was felt or understood while little was said. Without the interlinear gloss and the commentary the poem last all of fourteen lines. The translated version includes one hundred seven words, the original a mere ninety-nine. We indeed may see that a message of profound meaning, possibly beyond the scope of what we thought possible for a fourteen-line poem, was detailed without a multitude of words. It was detailed in the mind of the reader, and experienced in a place individual words may not go alone.
Now, with a little revision and a little magic, that might actually go into the paper!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis - 12/4/2007
I recently looked at an article published by UCLA's Political Science department regarding political bias in major media outlets. The article can be found
The point (or argument) being made in this article is, of course, that bias in media does in fact exist - more specifically, that a left-leaning or politically-liberal bias exists as an average across the nation's media outlets, and that even many of the outlets which are touted as leaning 'right' or conservative are in fact, left-leaning.
The audience for this article is fairly broad - anyone who cares about the possibility or apparent existence of bias in political and news coverage and reporting is the obvious general audience. Political scientists, news agencies themselves, concerned students, political activists, consipiracy theorists, statisticians, you name it. In fact, it may be better to talk about who is not the audience, because they may be in the minority. Generally speaking, conservative audiences are more concerned with a liberal news bias because it does not reflect many of their values or beliefs, so this may be another qualification of the intended audience: conservative viewers/listeners/readers.
The method used here in arguing the case is a strong one - a seemingly unbiased and objective data-gathering and data-analyzing mult-year empirically-based study reveals a linear graded measurement of any major media outlet's political leanings (or lack thereof...). The argument was convincing and enlightening in many respects because it presented raw and organized data in a convincing manner, with clear indications that the argument was not only valid but practically factual.
I was especially surprised to see that The Wall Street Journal, which I always understood to be a fairly unbiased, if not conservatively-geared, daily publication did in fact have liberal leanings. It seems that, according to the methodology of the study and the published results, an outlet's op/ed (opinions/editorials) sections or segments may lean one way (as should be expected from such a section - it's supposed to be opinionated and argumentative!) while the actual news reporting sections or segments might lean the other way! This was the case with The Wall Street Journal - although their op/eds were conservative in nature, their news reporting was fairly liberal (again, according to the scoring rubric of the study).
This was an effective argument to target anyone concerned with the topic - it confirmed many of the beliefs of concerned conservatives, and objectively and empirically showed persuasive results.
here
.The point (or argument) being made in this article is, of course, that bias in media does in fact exist - more specifically, that a left-leaning or politically-liberal bias exists as an average across the nation's media outlets, and that even many of the outlets which are touted as leaning 'right' or conservative are in fact, left-leaning.
The audience for this article is fairly broad - anyone who cares about the possibility or apparent existence of bias in political and news coverage and reporting is the obvious general audience. Political scientists, news agencies themselves, concerned students, political activists, consipiracy theorists, statisticians, you name it. In fact, it may be better to talk about who is not the audience, because they may be in the minority. Generally speaking, conservative audiences are more concerned with a liberal news bias because it does not reflect many of their values or beliefs, so this may be another qualification of the intended audience: conservative viewers/listeners/readers.
The method used here in arguing the case is a strong one - a seemingly unbiased and objective data-gathering and data-analyzing mult-year empirically-based study reveals a linear graded measurement of any major media outlet's political leanings (or lack thereof...). The argument was convincing and enlightening in many respects because it presented raw and organized data in a convincing manner, with clear indications that the argument was not only valid but practically factual.
I was especially surprised to see that The Wall Street Journal, which I always understood to be a fairly unbiased, if not conservatively-geared, daily publication did in fact have liberal leanings. It seems that, according to the methodology of the study and the published results, an outlet's op/ed (opinions/editorials) sections or segments may lean one way (as should be expected from such a section - it's supposed to be opinionated and argumentative!) while the actual news reporting sections or segments might lean the other way! This was the case with The Wall Street Journal - although their op/eds were conservative in nature, their news reporting was fairly liberal (again, according to the scoring rubric of the study).
This was an effective argument to target anyone concerned with the topic - it confirmed many of the beliefs of concerned conservatives, and objectively and empirically showed persuasive results.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Technique Post - 11/18/2007
I decided today to work on the 'to be' verb deletion bit we discussed and practiced in class a couple of weeks ago. I realized through the practical application of that idea that my writing drastically improved when I found more creative ways to describe or present ideas rather than habitually using a 'to be' verb variant. So, I decided first to use a paragraph selected from my first paper that we are revising for tomorrow's peer review.
Here's the original:
Rarely do students from homes where parents adopt mentoring roles engage in acts of social violence at school or other social arenas. In a Buffalo, New York, middle school a program was piloted in classrooms where trained fathers from the community came to volunteer. Surveys were taken before and after the program’s implementation, and results demonstrated that the involvement of responsible and caring adults in the classroom has a positive effect in decreasing students’ feelings of hostility (Vidal 1).
And here's the revised version:
Rarely do students from homes where parents adopt mentoring roles engage in acts of social violence at school or other social arenas. A Buffalo, New York, middle school piloted a program in classrooms where trained fathers from the community came to volunteer. Surveys administered before and after to the students and teachers demonstrated that involvement of responsible and caring adults in the classroom has a positive effect in decreasing students’ feelings of hostility (Vidal 1).
I realized that one just wasn't enough, so I drew a section from a Wikipedia article:
"Thanksgiving meals are traditionally family events where certain kinds of food are served. First and foremost, turkey is the featured item in most Thanksgiving feasts (so much so that Thanksgiving is sometimes facetiously referred to as "Turkey Day"). Stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, corn, turnips, rolls, pecan pie and pumpkin pie are commonly associated with Thanksgiving dinner. Often guests bring food items or help with cooking in the kitchen as part of a happy, communal meal" (Article "Thanksgiving").
Here's a revised version:
Thanksgiving meals have evolved into traditional family events where partakers enjoy certain kinds of food. First and foremost, turkey, the featured item in most Thanksgiving feasts (so much so that Thanksgiving is sometimes facetiously referred to as "Turkey Day"). Other foods commonly associated with Thanksgiving dinner include stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, corn, turnips, rolls, pecan pie and pumpkin pie. Often guests bring food items or help with cooking in the kitchen as part of a happy, communal meal.
Aren't they just better without all of the 'to be's?
Here's the original:
Rarely do students from homes where parents adopt mentoring roles engage in acts of social violence at school or other social arenas. In a Buffalo, New York, middle school a program was piloted in classrooms where trained fathers from the community came to volunteer. Surveys were taken before and after the program’s implementation, and results demonstrated that the involvement of responsible and caring adults in the classroom has a positive effect in decreasing students’ feelings of hostility (Vidal 1).
And here's the revised version:
Rarely do students from homes where parents adopt mentoring roles engage in acts of social violence at school or other social arenas. A Buffalo, New York, middle school piloted a program in classrooms where trained fathers from the community came to volunteer. Surveys administered before and after to the students and teachers demonstrated that involvement of responsible and caring adults in the classroom has a positive effect in decreasing students’ feelings of hostility (Vidal 1).
I realized that one just wasn't enough, so I drew a section from a Wikipedia article:
"Thanksgiving meals are traditionally family events where certain kinds of food are served. First and foremost, turkey is the featured item in most Thanksgiving feasts (so much so that Thanksgiving is sometimes facetiously referred to as "Turkey Day"). Stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, corn, turnips, rolls, pecan pie and pumpkin pie are commonly associated with Thanksgiving dinner. Often guests bring food items or help with cooking in the kitchen as part of a happy, communal meal" (Article "Thanksgiving").
Here's a revised version:
Thanksgiving meals have evolved into traditional family events where partakers enjoy certain kinds of food. First and foremost, turkey, the featured item in most Thanksgiving feasts (so much so that Thanksgiving is sometimes facetiously referred to as "Turkey Day"). Other foods commonly associated with Thanksgiving dinner include stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, corn, turnips, rolls, pecan pie and pumpkin pie. Often guests bring food items or help with cooking in the kitchen as part of a happy, communal meal.
Aren't they just better without all of the 'to be's?
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Free Post #9, I believe
It's really difficult being a senior in my position. Ah - there's my tendency coming out in full color again! I have to continually correct myself on that note - being a senior in my position isn't difficult, rather: I am a difficult senior. In fact, I've never been all that great a student since high school, and this fact has been a prime factor in my many post-high school frustrations. I think that I am lazy - smart, but lazy.
My wife may have described it well the other day when she noted that I am one who expects excellent performance from myself, and am one who has always enjoyed high grades. Decent grades have always resulted from my academic endeavors, but oftentimes I feel that they aren't really representative of my intelligence. When motivation for schoolwork passes for me, then, I have a tendency to put things off until the last possible moment and THEN, after serious personal pushing, finish the work and take a grade which in my opinion is not representative of my intelligence, but is usually a good indicator of how much work I engaged upon the task. It's frustratingly fair.
I have over the most recent couple of years had an ardent desire to attain more strict individual discipline - especially when it comes to academics - but have on the whole been unable to do so. The natural man inside me somehow still manages to guide me down the path of least resistance, becoming complacent with mediocre academic performance, and becoming totally undemanding of self in almost all academic pursuits.
I've heard that "character is following through when the original motivation has passed." I'm following through, all right, but not in the style that I would prefer. But I can't apply myself any more than I have been! I just cannot understand myself!
Sometimes - many times, in fact - I feel that I'm letting down not only myself but those who depend on me for their futures. My wife is so supportive, and my little son has no other alternative but to submit. But submit to what? A sorry mess of a father, at least when it comes to preparing for a future by working as hard as possible in the present! I so wish that I could have the academic discipline of almost anyone else I know - and it isn't any easier witnessing the educational dedication displayed in my wife's family....I can't help but compare myself sometimes, and it's just maddening!
Anyway, it's almost over - I just can't wait!
My wife may have described it well the other day when she noted that I am one who expects excellent performance from myself, and am one who has always enjoyed high grades. Decent grades have always resulted from my academic endeavors, but oftentimes I feel that they aren't really representative of my intelligence. When motivation for schoolwork passes for me, then, I have a tendency to put things off until the last possible moment and THEN, after serious personal pushing, finish the work and take a grade which in my opinion is not representative of my intelligence, but is usually a good indicator of how much work I engaged upon the task. It's frustratingly fair.
I have over the most recent couple of years had an ardent desire to attain more strict individual discipline - especially when it comes to academics - but have on the whole been unable to do so. The natural man inside me somehow still manages to guide me down the path of least resistance, becoming complacent with mediocre academic performance, and becoming totally undemanding of self in almost all academic pursuits.
I've heard that "character is following through when the original motivation has passed." I'm following through, all right, but not in the style that I would prefer. But I can't apply myself any more than I have been! I just cannot understand myself!
Sometimes - many times, in fact - I feel that I'm letting down not only myself but those who depend on me for their futures. My wife is so supportive, and my little son has no other alternative but to submit. But submit to what? A sorry mess of a father, at least when it comes to preparing for a future by working as hard as possible in the present! I so wish that I could have the academic discipline of almost anyone else I know - and it isn't any easier witnessing the educational dedication displayed in my wife's family....I can't help but compare myself sometimes, and it's just maddening!
Anyway, it's almost over - I just can't wait!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Technique Post - 11/11/2007
So I've been dwelling on the nostalgia that is the armed services lately - mostly because tomorrow is Veteran's Day, and yesterday was the 232nd anniversary of the Marine Corps. I am proud to be a part of the tradition carried on in the Armed Forces of the United States, specifically the Marine Corps. On that theme, I am going to put together a WATCO, enthymeme, implicit assumption, etc.:
WATCO: What are the consequences of lowering standards of training into the Marine Corps on the quality of Marines in the Corps?
Enthymeme: Lowering the standards of recruit and candidate training into the Marine Corps would drastically damage the quality of the Marines in the Corps because lowering the standards of basic training would lower the minimum level of personal expectations for individual Marines.
Implicit Assumption: Anything that lower the minimum level of personal expectations for individual Marines will drastically damage the quality of the Marines in the Corps.
Thanks - Ciao.
WATCO: What are the consequences of lowering standards of training into the Marine Corps on the quality of Marines in the Corps?
Enthymeme: Lowering the standards of recruit and candidate training into the Marine Corps would drastically damage the quality of the Marines in the Corps because lowering the standards of basic training would lower the minimum level of personal expectations for individual Marines.
Implicit Assumption: Anything that lower the minimum level of personal expectations for individual Marines will drastically damage the quality of the Marines in the Corps.
Thanks - Ciao.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
technique post - 11/4/2007
So here we go with a practice enthymeme - lately I've been thinking quite a bit about the ridiculous failure that is the American two-party system in politics.
WATCO - What are the consequences of abolishing the two-party system in American politics on the representative legislative system of the republic?
Enthymeme - Abolishing the two-party system would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation's representative government because abolishing the two-party stystem would allow voters to vote for representative individuals instead of a party platform.
Implicit Assumption - Anything that allows voters to vote for representative individuals instead of a party platform would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation.
Enthymeme w/ A1 - Abolishing the two-party system would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation because abolishing the formation of a Republican or Democratic Party would allow voters to vote for individuals regardless of their party affiliation and isolated from a hard-line party platform.
BAM - how'd'ya like dem apples?
WATCO - What are the consequences of abolishing the two-party system in American politics on the representative legislative system of the republic?
Enthymeme - Abolishing the two-party system would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation's representative government because abolishing the two-party stystem would allow voters to vote for representative individuals instead of a party platform.
Implicit Assumption - Anything that allows voters to vote for representative individuals instead of a party platform would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation.
Enthymeme w/ A1 - Abolishing the two-party system would improve the representative nature of the legislative system of the nation because abolishing the formation of a Republican or Democratic Party would allow voters to vote for individuals regardless of their party affiliation and isolated from a hard-line party platform.
BAM - how'd'ya like dem apples?
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Free Post #8
I wish that I were more disciplined. For instance, I am excellent at creating schedules - for myself and others - but I have such incredible difficulty holding myself to them!
For some reason I never want to do what I should do, and always want to do what I don't need to - for instance, even though a year and a half ago I couldn't torture myself into doing my homework for my chemistry class, now that it isn't part of my coursework I would gladly abandon my current phonetics homework to delve into the very same chemistry I so hated before! It's insane!
How can I become more disciplined? Is it even a matter of discipline? My inclination right now is that it is.
If it isn't a matter of discipline, then what is it? In the past I have attributed this strange behavior to my personal desires, in that if I didn't want to do something it must not be what I should be doing, what I really wanted. I would find the path of least resistance, the route that offered the least pain and the most gratification. Is that just a prolonged version of procrastination on a larger scale? Am I really just lazy? If this is what it is, then looking back on my life is depressing, and hurts.
If it isn't that, then what is it? Is it that I'm autodidactic? The only time I truly learn things is on my own without an instructor giving formal classes? That seems a bit more reasonable than the above alternative, but it still doesn't satisfy. If that's the way it has to be, then how does someone like me hack through life when formal education is practically a prerequisite for success?
I wish I were just more disciplined, bottom line.
For some reason I never want to do what I should do, and always want to do what I don't need to - for instance, even though a year and a half ago I couldn't torture myself into doing my homework for my chemistry class, now that it isn't part of my coursework I would gladly abandon my current phonetics homework to delve into the very same chemistry I so hated before! It's insane!
How can I become more disciplined? Is it even a matter of discipline? My inclination right now is that it is.
If it isn't a matter of discipline, then what is it? In the past I have attributed this strange behavior to my personal desires, in that if I didn't want to do something it must not be what I should be doing, what I really wanted. I would find the path of least resistance, the route that offered the least pain and the most gratification. Is that just a prolonged version of procrastination on a larger scale? Am I really just lazy? If this is what it is, then looking back on my life is depressing, and hurts.
If it isn't that, then what is it? Is it that I'm autodidactic? The only time I truly learn things is on my own without an instructor giving formal classes? That seems a bit more reasonable than the above alternative, but it still doesn't satisfy. If that's the way it has to be, then how does someone like me hack through life when formal education is practically a prerequisite for success?
I wish I were just more disciplined, bottom line.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #7
In my research this past week I spent quite a bit of time looking at a statistical report published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, focusing on statistical research done on our country's internal population of what they term to be 'unauthorized immigrants.'
The source was a .pdf file located on the Department of Homeland Security website.
The Rhetorical Analysis will be finished soon.
The source was a .pdf file located on the Department of Homeland Security website.
The Rhetorical Analysis will be finished soon.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Free Post #7 - untitled
This week I have run dry on creative juices - at least as far as the epic James Bond poem of the past two plus months is concerned. No, I have decided to take the week off and post a stream of consciousness....post.
Anyway, it seems as if my semester is winding down rather quickly even though there is still a good chunk of time left. In actuality, I'm only halfway through the semester. And it may not really be that the semester is winding down, but rather that I personally am winding down. I guess I'm just mentally graduated. Not like a cylinder, but that I am ready to be finished with undergraduate education. For now.
Now, as I'm looking ahead to a short-term (or long term?) career with the Marine Corps, I am reflecting on what the future may yet hold for me and mine. I wonder if many of my dreams will be realized? Is it my responsibility to make them happen, or is it my responsibility to do away with all of the crazy-sounding ambitions I've harbored up to this point in life? Would being responsible in the latter sense cause me to be irresponsible in realizing my potential and living a full life, or is a full life only possible when I focus and dedicate to one path in life?
I still have flashes of desire to become a doctor, even though I've found that medical school prerequisites were my undergraduate match. I think I just didn't want it bad enough right now. Is it really as crazy as people say it is to go back to school and become a doctor after spending time as a professional Marine? I don't think so. But is it irresponsible? I'll have to continue thinking about that.
Well, enough of my keyboard meandering. See you next time.
Anyway, it seems as if my semester is winding down rather quickly even though there is still a good chunk of time left. In actuality, I'm only halfway through the semester. And it may not really be that the semester is winding down, but rather that I personally am winding down. I guess I'm just mentally graduated. Not like a cylinder, but that I am ready to be finished with undergraduate education. For now.
Now, as I'm looking ahead to a short-term (or long term?) career with the Marine Corps, I am reflecting on what the future may yet hold for me and mine. I wonder if many of my dreams will be realized? Is it my responsibility to make them happen, or is it my responsibility to do away with all of the crazy-sounding ambitions I've harbored up to this point in life? Would being responsible in the latter sense cause me to be irresponsible in realizing my potential and living a full life, or is a full life only possible when I focus and dedicate to one path in life?
I still have flashes of desire to become a doctor, even though I've found that medical school prerequisites were my undergraduate match. I think I just didn't want it bad enough right now. Is it really as crazy as people say it is to go back to school and become a doctor after spending time as a professional Marine? I don't think so. But is it irresponsible? I'll have to continue thinking about that.
Well, enough of my keyboard meandering. See you next time.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #6
So here's a new ad (new in the sense that it's new to the blog, not necessarily new...it's actually pretty old-looking!) for the ole- rhetorical analysis:
Argument: that Kellogg's cereal is the best choice when purchasing cereal.
Audience: parents - specifically those who have desire to not just feed their children but to contribute or serve in the community, or even more specifically, those who want to feed children AND donate to the 'camp fire girls.'
Method: they juxtapose a scene of a service-oriented 'camp fire girl' feeding a young girl Kellogg's corn flakes with the idea of performing service like the 'camp fire girls.' This would be very appealing to those who have young children, or more specifically, young girls. There are many alternatives to Kellogg's cereals in the cereal world, and here we are given a heart-warming view of what Kellogg's cereal can be in our lives - more than just a breakfast, but certainly service and kindness according to the poster. It would appeal even more to conservative mothers who live at home and care about a good upbringing for their children (young girls).
Effectiveness: seems pretty effective, though if one doesn't know what the 'camp fire girls' are, one would have a difficult time connecting the ideas and would therefore be at a loss. Regardless, the brand name is prominent, one of the main objectives of advertisments for products and services.
Argument: that Kellogg's cereal is the best choice when purchasing cereal.
Audience: parents - specifically those who have desire to not just feed their children but to contribute or serve in the community, or even more specifically, those who want to feed children AND donate to the 'camp fire girls.'
Method: they juxtapose a scene of a service-oriented 'camp fire girl' feeding a young girl Kellogg's corn flakes with the idea of performing service like the 'camp fire girls.' This would be very appealing to those who have young children, or more specifically, young girls. There are many alternatives to Kellogg's cereals in the cereal world, and here we are given a heart-warming view of what Kellogg's cereal can be in our lives - more than just a breakfast, but certainly service and kindness according to the poster. It would appeal even more to conservative mothers who live at home and care about a good upbringing for their children (young girls).
Effectiveness: seems pretty effective, though if one doesn't know what the 'camp fire girls' are, one would have a difficult time connecting the ideas and would therefore be at a loss. Regardless, the brand name is prominent, one of the main objectives of advertisments for products and services.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Free Post #6 - 007:BondPull
Another installment, fresh off the 11:55 hotplate:
Dalton slowed to a crawl and then just veered right,
Just missing a fenceline, though the space was quite tight.
Craig, nearly done, threw his arms up in glee,
And crossed over the line just happy as can be.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
So this James Bond tractorpull event is really turning out to be one of my favorite assignments of the semester - I mean, really, what better time is there in this life when all one has to dwell on (for a grade) is James Bond - one of the sexiest and most lethal of human weapons - and the good old American sport of tractor pulling...? I've had fun thus far, and can only imagine how much more fun I'm going to have over the next month or two to really round out a good poem for the ages.
At this point, it seems that Daniel Craig, the blond newcomer of the Bonds, is set to take the title. It may end up that way, but the poem still has quite a bit more to go before I'll be comfortable calling it 'done.' We need to finish some of the character development, mend some inter-Bond relationship gaps and feuds, and show just how conniving and ingenious these old codgers can really be. I mean, how can I stop at this point when we've barely heard each of the Bonds utter more than a sentence or two? While I've got six stars of the Bond name and from the silver screen at my beck and call, I'm going to take full advantage of it, you better believe me!
Continue watching, or reading rather, to see what's going to happen. I apologize for a light week of additional poem content, but this week (and maybe next!) have been wearing heavy on the brain-piece. I promise more exciting installments in the near future!
Dalton slowed to a crawl and then just veered right,
Just missing a fenceline, though the space was quite tight.
Craig, nearly done, threw his arms up in glee,
And crossed over the line just happy as can be.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
So this James Bond tractorpull event is really turning out to be one of my favorite assignments of the semester - I mean, really, what better time is there in this life when all one has to dwell on (for a grade) is James Bond - one of the sexiest and most lethal of human weapons - and the good old American sport of tractor pulling...? I've had fun thus far, and can only imagine how much more fun I'm going to have over the next month or two to really round out a good poem for the ages.
At this point, it seems that Daniel Craig, the blond newcomer of the Bonds, is set to take the title. It may end up that way, but the poem still has quite a bit more to go before I'll be comfortable calling it 'done.' We need to finish some of the character development, mend some inter-Bond relationship gaps and feuds, and show just how conniving and ingenious these old codgers can really be. I mean, how can I stop at this point when we've barely heard each of the Bonds utter more than a sentence or two? While I've got six stars of the Bond name and from the silver screen at my beck and call, I'm going to take full advantage of it, you better believe me!
Continue watching, or reading rather, to see what's going to happen. I apologize for a light week of additional poem content, but this week (and maybe next!) have been wearing heavy on the brain-piece. I promise more exciting installments in the near future!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #5
Check this painting out:
Obviously and blatantly, this is a World War II-era propoganda-style poster. Let's analyze, shall we?
Argument: This is trying to make the viewer more worried about, or more aware of and careful of, the dangers of domestic forest fires. Although it really isn't related to the evils of foreign military powers (Hitler and the Nazis, Hideki and the Japanese Imperialists), the painter attached the idea of forest fires with the frightening idea of the axis powers of the world war.
Audience: Those Americans living in World War II times, in areas where forest fires are a serious risk. Adults in rural or forested areas, patriots.
Methods: The artist effectively juxtaposed a domestic problem - forest fires - with an unrelated but horrifying image of wickedness incarnate (as Hitler and Hideki would have been recognized at the time as being the epitome of evil). In the text of the work, it actually plants in the mind of the viewer the idea that Axis powers may use forest fires as a subversive weapon against the American populace at home while the war went on abroad.
Effectiveness: While it is rather silly when looking back at such works, it was probably very effective at the time. In modern times, it would probably have been labeled "biased" "conservative bigotry" or "slanderous discrimination," and would probably be just another joke about the seeming ignorance of Americans.
Obviously and blatantly, this is a World War II-era propoganda-style poster. Let's analyze, shall we?
Argument: This is trying to make the viewer more worried about, or more aware of and careful of, the dangers of domestic forest fires. Although it really isn't related to the evils of foreign military powers (Hitler and the Nazis, Hideki and the Japanese Imperialists), the painter attached the idea of forest fires with the frightening idea of the axis powers of the world war.
Audience: Those Americans living in World War II times, in areas where forest fires are a serious risk. Adults in rural or forested areas, patriots.
Methods: The artist effectively juxtaposed a domestic problem - forest fires - with an unrelated but horrifying image of wickedness incarnate (as Hitler and Hideki would have been recognized at the time as being the epitome of evil). In the text of the work, it actually plants in the mind of the viewer the idea that Axis powers may use forest fires as a subversive weapon against the American populace at home while the war went on abroad.
Effectiveness: While it is rather silly when looking back at such works, it was probably very effective at the time. In modern times, it would probably have been labeled "biased" "conservative bigotry" or "slanderous discrimination," and would probably be just another joke about the seeming ignorance of Americans.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Free Post #5 - 007: BondPull
What he saw made him certain he had but one chance,
To win, beat Dalton and do a victory dance.
Said Dalton had saved his last tool ‘til now.
He now had it in hand, and was wiping his brow.
He held a rope with a knot, and its knot looked mean,
It surely could reach the short distance between
Daniel Craig and himself, though it’d take some fine skill.
Luckily, he’d last week renewed his license to kill.
He lashed out with the rope and Craig let out a cry,
It hit him square in the back, and he wanted to die.
His one last chance was to leap the short space
‘Twixt the tractors if he hoped to win the big race.
They both knew that the rope couldn’t do a darn thing
If they were so close Tim couldn’t even swing.
So at precisely the moment Craig leaped through the air,
Tim lashed out again and hit him right there.
Screaming again, Craig fought back the tears,
And landing took hold of both Dalton’s ears.
Sweat coursing down his lean muscled physique,
He head-butted Tim and even made it look sleek.
He set the ex-Bond, now dazed and cross-eyed,
Back down on his seat and jumped back to his ride.
…TO BE CONTINUED…
To win, beat Dalton and do a victory dance.
Said Dalton had saved his last tool ‘til now.
He now had it in hand, and was wiping his brow.
He held a rope with a knot, and its knot looked mean,
It surely could reach the short distance between
Daniel Craig and himself, though it’d take some fine skill.
Luckily, he’d last week renewed his license to kill.
He lashed out with the rope and Craig let out a cry,
It hit him square in the back, and he wanted to die.
His one last chance was to leap the short space
‘Twixt the tractors if he hoped to win the big race.
They both knew that the rope couldn’t do a darn thing
If they were so close Tim couldn’t even swing.
So at precisely the moment Craig leaped through the air,
Tim lashed out again and hit him right there.
Screaming again, Craig fought back the tears,
And landing took hold of both Dalton’s ears.
Sweat coursing down his lean muscled physique,
He head-butted Tim and even made it look sleek.
He set the ex-Bond, now dazed and cross-eyed,
Back down on his seat and jumped back to his ride.
…TO BE CONTINUED…
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Technique Post #4 - An introduction (or two)
So, in accordance with our current topic of discussion in class and for the upcoming paper assignment, let's use one of the standard introduction types in, um, introducing education reform.
Introduction Type: Some Say This
Our nation is currently struggling with a topic of the utmost seriousness - a topic which is demanding decisions at every level of government, decisions which will undoubtedly affect every household in America. Education is certainly vital to the longevity and progress of our great nation, and reforms must constantly be made in order to improve outdated systems. Utah is not a stranger to its citizens pushing for reform, and is now on the verge of making a decision on the topic of a voucher system. Experts on both sides of the debate have offered opinions on the merits and flaws of the proposed system: either vouchers will allow parents to make a choice in education and incite competition and therefore improvement in public school systems, or it will pound an already struggling public school system into the hard Utah soil. We will here explore the two sides of an already heated debate and decide which side of the fence we should be on.
That's it - simple as that!
Introduction Type: Some Say This
Our nation is currently struggling with a topic of the utmost seriousness - a topic which is demanding decisions at every level of government, decisions which will undoubtedly affect every household in America. Education is certainly vital to the longevity and progress of our great nation, and reforms must constantly be made in order to improve outdated systems. Utah is not a stranger to its citizens pushing for reform, and is now on the verge of making a decision on the topic of a voucher system. Experts on both sides of the debate have offered opinions on the merits and flaws of the proposed system: either vouchers will allow parents to make a choice in education and incite competition and therefore improvement in public school systems, or it will pound an already struggling public school system into the hard Utah soil. We will here explore the two sides of an already heated debate and decide which side of the fence we should be on.
That's it - simple as that!
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Free Post #4 - BondPull: 007
The fourth - and last? - installment of the ever more infamous James Bonds Tractor Pull event, straight to your little computer screen.
With weight newly added onto each iron steed,
George didn't have all that much of a lead.
Craig's sled was digging hard into the dirt,
And so to lose weight he just ripped off his shirt.
"You cad!" hollered Dalton, now inches away.
"Your muscles - not acting - is how you get pay!"
George shot a glance back at Craig and thought "shoddy."
Though he had to admit he took good care of his body.
Craig didn't smile, just swung low to the side
And picked up a rock which to his shirt he then tied.
He hefted the crudely made weapon, took aim
At poor Georgie's head only meaning to maim.
With a loud clunk ole' George fell, and to Craig's delight
Georgie landed unconscious but seemed quite alright.
Edging closer to Craig, Dalton drew out his last tool:
Craig whipped around, saw it, and felt like a fool.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
With weight newly added onto each iron steed,
George didn't have all that much of a lead.
Craig's sled was digging hard into the dirt,
And so to lose weight he just ripped off his shirt.
"You cad!" hollered Dalton, now inches away.
"Your muscles - not acting - is how you get pay!"
George shot a glance back at Craig and thought "shoddy."
Though he had to admit he took good care of his body.
Craig didn't smile, just swung low to the side
And picked up a rock which to his shirt he then tied.
He hefted the crudely made weapon, took aim
At poor Georgie's head only meaning to maim.
With a loud clunk ole' George fell, and to Craig's delight
Georgie landed unconscious but seemed quite alright.
Edging closer to Craig, Dalton drew out his last tool:
Craig whipped around, saw it, and felt like a fool.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #4
So, the first thing I thought of when we were asked to use a poster or art or a photograph for our next rhetorical analysis was a Marine Corps recruiting poster. Why, you ask? Well, I'm a Marine - isn't that enough?
Here's a classic modern recruiting poster used by our beloved Marine Corps:
What is the argument here? No, not what the drill instructor is yelling about. The argument as in the point of the poster - its purpose. The argument is that when considering military service one should choose the Marine Corps over the others - that it is the toughest, the hardest, and the most prestigious. And they don't apologize for it.
The audience targeted by this ad, and others of its kind is more broad than one might think at first glance. For the sake of simplicity, I will suggest three groups of people. First, and most obvious, are young people out to "join up," those who are looking to enlist in the armed forces. This group would also include those who are considering enlisting, or who have an interest in the idea of enlisting. Second are parents. Specifically, parents of those from the first group and parents who are concerned about their children's future or are wishing that their children were part of the first group. Third, and broadest of all, are those who need confirmation that the Marines are still cocksure and proud, and are getting the job done. This includes patriots who are proud of the military heritage of our nation, and look for the showy strength of the armed forces and find therein reassurance and confidence. Also included are current and retired Marines - they need to know that the fire's still alive and hot, that traditions are being carried forward.
The target audiences are given the argument via a number of effective communication lines in this poster. Kids looking for action, military lifestyle, and tough-as-nails training are given the image of a vein-bursting drill instructor shrieking into a recruit's face at close range. The saying at the top assures the one viewing the poster that it isn't easy - an appealing thought for one up for a challenge (and then some!). For all audiences, the all-too-familiar shape of the "smokey bear" campaign cover (the drill instructor's "hat") strikes home as being prototypically "Marine," which carries with it some of the mystique and magic that only one properly inducted into the brotherhood called the Corps can understand, that quality that drives young men to sacrifice years of life to sweat and suffer through recruit training ("boot camp"). The simplicity of the image and poster add to the overall feeling that life is simple and rugged for Marines - and desireable.
It is quite effective in its rhetoric - I consider myself a fairly right-minded and non-violent individual, and it got me, didn't it?
Here's a classic modern recruiting poster used by our beloved Marine Corps:
What is the argument here? No, not what the drill instructor is yelling about. The argument as in the point of the poster - its purpose. The argument is that when considering military service one should choose the Marine Corps over the others - that it is the toughest, the hardest, and the most prestigious. And they don't apologize for it.
The audience targeted by this ad, and others of its kind is more broad than one might think at first glance. For the sake of simplicity, I will suggest three groups of people. First, and most obvious, are young people out to "join up," those who are looking to enlist in the armed forces. This group would also include those who are considering enlisting, or who have an interest in the idea of enlisting. Second are parents. Specifically, parents of those from the first group and parents who are concerned about their children's future or are wishing that their children were part of the first group. Third, and broadest of all, are those who need confirmation that the Marines are still cocksure and proud, and are getting the job done. This includes patriots who are proud of the military heritage of our nation, and look for the showy strength of the armed forces and find therein reassurance and confidence. Also included are current and retired Marines - they need to know that the fire's still alive and hot, that traditions are being carried forward.
The target audiences are given the argument via a number of effective communication lines in this poster. Kids looking for action, military lifestyle, and tough-as-nails training are given the image of a vein-bursting drill instructor shrieking into a recruit's face at close range. The saying at the top assures the one viewing the poster that it isn't easy - an appealing thought for one up for a challenge (and then some!). For all audiences, the all-too-familiar shape of the "smokey bear" campaign cover (the drill instructor's "hat") strikes home as being prototypically "Marine," which carries with it some of the mystique and magic that only one properly inducted into the brotherhood called the Corps can understand, that quality that drives young men to sacrifice years of life to sweat and suffer through recruit training ("boot camp"). The simplicity of the image and poster add to the overall feeling that life is simple and rugged for Marines - and desireable.
It is quite effective in its rhetoric - I consider myself a fairly right-minded and non-violent individual, and it got me, didn't it?
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Technique Post #3 - Enthymemes with A1s
Here are a couple of WATCOs, enthymemes, implicit assumptions, and their corresponding enthymemes with A1s instead of straight As:
1.
WATCO: What are the consequences of not voting on the USA's democratic process?
Enthymeme: Not voting would diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process because not voting makes it so leaders don't know the will of the people.
Implicit assumption: Anything that makes it so leaders don't know the will of the people will diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process.
Enthymeme with A1: Not voting would diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process because Garrett Smith not voting makes it so his leaders don't know Garrett's will.
2.
WATCO: What are the consequences of heightened cigarette taxes on tobacco company revenue?
Enthymeme: Raising cigarette taxes would diminish tobacco company revenue because raising cigarette taxes would dissuade many smokers or potential smokers from buying cigarettes.
Implicit assumption: Anything that would dissuade smokers or potential smokers from buying cigarettes would diminish tobacco company revenues.
Enthymeme with A1: Raising cigarette taxes would diminish tobacco company revenue because raising taxes on Marlboro brand cigarettes would dissuade Marlboro smokers or potential Marlboro smokers from buying Marlboro cigarettes.
And that's my technique practice for the week. Adios.
1.
WATCO: What are the consequences of not voting on the USA's democratic process?
Enthymeme: Not voting would diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process because not voting makes it so leaders don't know the will of the people.
Implicit assumption: Anything that makes it so leaders don't know the will of the people will diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process.
Enthymeme with A1: Not voting would diminish the effectiveness of the USA's democratic process because Garrett Smith not voting makes it so his leaders don't know Garrett's will.
2.
WATCO: What are the consequences of heightened cigarette taxes on tobacco company revenue?
Enthymeme: Raising cigarette taxes would diminish tobacco company revenue because raising cigarette taxes would dissuade many smokers or potential smokers from buying cigarettes.
Implicit assumption: Anything that would dissuade smokers or potential smokers from buying cigarettes would diminish tobacco company revenues.
Enthymeme with A1: Raising cigarette taxes would diminish tobacco company revenue because raising taxes on Marlboro brand cigarettes would dissuade Marlboro smokers or potential Marlboro smokers from buying Marlboro cigarettes.
And that's my technique practice for the week. Adios.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Free Post #3 - 007:GoldenPull Part 3
Here we go, another week another installment of the running epic poem "007:GoldenPull," featuring all six of the Bond actors over the past five decades of James Bond films. We left off with Pierce Brosnan punching a button on his cell phone, and a subterranean rumble echoing up from beneath.
A rift opened up ahead in Moore's track.
He drove straight on through and ended up on his back.
Sean couldn't but chuckle, and pulled from his purse
A set of sharp spikes he then tossed with a curse:
"Here you are, Pierce my boy, with your perfect slick hair,
See how you do when your tires have no air!"
The spikes dug in, and with a terrible crunch,
Down went Pierce B. with his cuffs in a bunch.
Craig was just now on George's left flank,
With the other two back just one tractor-length.
Dalton reached under his chair with one hand,
And pulled a short lever, then got up to stand.
A missile launched up from his now-empty seat,
And homed right in on Sean Connery's tractor's heat.
Sean, still lithe despite increasing years,
Saw it all coming and jumped off without fear.
His tractor erupted in a ball of red flame,
and tumbling to safety he cursed Dalton's name.
With only three Bonds left in this cutthroat race,
More weight was added, to slow down the pace.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
A rift opened up ahead in Moore's track.
He drove straight on through and ended up on his back.
Sean couldn't but chuckle, and pulled from his purse
A set of sharp spikes he then tossed with a curse:
"Here you are, Pierce my boy, with your perfect slick hair,
See how you do when your tires have no air!"
The spikes dug in, and with a terrible crunch,
Down went Pierce B. with his cuffs in a bunch.
Craig was just now on George's left flank,
With the other two back just one tractor-length.
Dalton reached under his chair with one hand,
And pulled a short lever, then got up to stand.
A missile launched up from his now-empty seat,
And homed right in on Sean Connery's tractor's heat.
Sean, still lithe despite increasing years,
Saw it all coming and jumped off without fear.
His tractor erupted in a ball of red flame,
and tumbling to safety he cursed Dalton's name.
With only three Bonds left in this cutthroat race,
More weight was added, to slow down the pace.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #3
Alright folks, you had all better pay attention to this one - I had to really dig deep into the vaults of television advertising history for this choice snippet. As always, check this link out first: http://youtube.com/watch?v=8SN4DaXwbm4 .
Now that you've been reexposed to that other plane of existence that was the early nineties, let's see just how Pringles laid down their argument.
Throughout the commercial, the viewer is of course shown many frames focusing on the Pringles name brand, logo, and signature can shape; the viewer is also presented with a few short frames centering on somebody eating a generic brand of potato chips. The contrast shown is also the argument in the commercial: when a consumer is given the choice of buying either Pringles or some other brand of potato chips, he or she should opt for Pringles.
Because of the actors' apparent ages and the fast-paced rhythms and camera shots, Pringles is targeting a young adult demographic for their product. The actors are just old enough to connect with either a teen-aged or early twenties crowd, and the dance-beat style can tapping sounds akin to something like the era's pop music. Also, because the contrast is made between messy, greasy "regular" potato chips and cleaner, baked Pringles, another potential target audience is health-conscious parents, or even health-conscious people in general.
In order to argue the issue and reach the intended audience, Pringles is shown to turn a terribly boring day into a veritable dance party - friends all get together and make beats and dance. Not only that, but they are definitely having a great time eating Pringles and being together. To emphasize these two points, another guy is shown eating Potato Chips (some generic brand, meant to represent the alternatives to Pringles) - he is not dancing or having a good time like the others, and surely doesn't have any friends - he's alone with his greasy chips. The greasy chips bring us to the next point: No grease or oil is shown in the parts with Pringles, while the Potato Chips are obviously a greasy mess. To seal the deal, the viewer is left with the impression that this amazing snack dance party will never end with Pringles, because "once you pop, you can't stop." We are also left with the baked taste in our mouths that make us forever regard Pringles as a step above the normal Potato Chip.
This add, even without spoken word, is effective (or was, back when it aired). It reached all of the target audiences with fairly applicable messages, and left one wanted to bite a stack of clean, baked Pringles and bust a move.
Now that you've been reexposed to that other plane of existence that was the early nineties, let's see just how Pringles laid down their argument.
Throughout the commercial, the viewer is of course shown many frames focusing on the Pringles name brand, logo, and signature can shape; the viewer is also presented with a few short frames centering on somebody eating a generic brand of potato chips. The contrast shown is also the argument in the commercial: when a consumer is given the choice of buying either Pringles or some other brand of potato chips, he or she should opt for Pringles.
Because of the actors' apparent ages and the fast-paced rhythms and camera shots, Pringles is targeting a young adult demographic for their product. The actors are just old enough to connect with either a teen-aged or early twenties crowd, and the dance-beat style can tapping sounds akin to something like the era's pop music. Also, because the contrast is made between messy, greasy "regular" potato chips and cleaner, baked Pringles, another potential target audience is health-conscious parents, or even health-conscious people in general.
In order to argue the issue and reach the intended audience, Pringles is shown to turn a terribly boring day into a veritable dance party - friends all get together and make beats and dance. Not only that, but they are definitely having a great time eating Pringles and being together. To emphasize these two points, another guy is shown eating Potato Chips (some generic brand, meant to represent the alternatives to Pringles) - he is not dancing or having a good time like the others, and surely doesn't have any friends - he's alone with his greasy chips. The greasy chips bring us to the next point: No grease or oil is shown in the parts with Pringles, while the Potato Chips are obviously a greasy mess. To seal the deal, the viewer is left with the impression that this amazing snack dance party will never end with Pringles, because "once you pop, you can't stop." We are also left with the baked taste in our mouths that make us forever regard Pringles as a step above the normal Potato Chip.
This add, even without spoken word, is effective (or was, back when it aired). It reached all of the target audiences with fairly applicable messages, and left one wanted to bite a stack of clean, baked Pringles and bust a move.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Technique Post #2 - Enthymemes & Implicit Assumptions
So here are a couple of fresh, new WATCOs, their enthymemes, and their corresponding implicit assumptions:
1.
What are the consequences of resurfacing 700 East on students living south of campus?
Resurfacing 700 East would enrage students living south of campus because resurfacing 700 East would make students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus.
A term: Resurfacing 700 East
B term: enrage students living south of campus
C term: make students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus
Implicit Assumption: Anything that makes students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus would enrage them!
2.
What are the consequences of abolishing sales tax in Utah on consumer spending?
Abolishing sales tax in Utah would increase consumer spending because abolishing sales tax in Utah would make the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive.
A term: Abolishing sales tax in Utah
B term: increase consumer spending
C term: make the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive
Implicit Assumption: Anything that makes the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive would increase consumer spending.
3.
What are the consequences of promoting bilingualism in American schools on the USA's international reputation?
Promoting bilingualism in American schools would enhance the USA's international reputation because promoting bilingualism in American schools would show other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country.
A term: Promoting bilingualism in American schools
B term: enhance the USA's international reputation
C term: show other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country.
Implicit Assumption: Anything that shows other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country would enhance the USA's international reputation.
--------
And there you have it, folks. A couple of hot stacks of rhetoric comin' at you this beautiful Sunday evening. No need for thanks - just doing my job.
1.
What are the consequences of resurfacing 700 East on students living south of campus?
Resurfacing 700 East would enrage students living south of campus because resurfacing 700 East would make students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus.
A term: Resurfacing 700 East
B term: enrage students living south of campus
C term: make students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus
Implicit Assumption: Anything that makes students living south of campus need to find alternate, longer routes when traveling to campus would enrage them!
2.
What are the consequences of abolishing sales tax in Utah on consumer spending?
Abolishing sales tax in Utah would increase consumer spending because abolishing sales tax in Utah would make the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive.
A term: Abolishing sales tax in Utah
B term: increase consumer spending
C term: make the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive
Implicit Assumption: Anything that makes the cost of purchasing products and services less expensive would increase consumer spending.
3.
What are the consequences of promoting bilingualism in American schools on the USA's international reputation?
Promoting bilingualism in American schools would enhance the USA's international reputation because promoting bilingualism in American schools would show other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country.
A term: Promoting bilingualism in American schools
B term: enhance the USA's international reputation
C term: show other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country.
Implicit Assumption: Anything that shows other countries that American students are more open minded, and more concerned about the world outside their own country would enhance the USA's international reputation.
--------
And there you have it, folks. A couple of hot stacks of rhetoric comin' at you this beautiful Sunday evening. No need for thanks - just doing my job.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Free Post #2 - The James Bond Tractor Pull Part Deux
This is the much-anticipated second installment of the epic poem for which I have, after many nights of restless sleep, created a title. From henceforth we shall refer to it as "007: GoldenPull." I know it's not all that original, but it certainly carries a Bondish sort of feeling with it, and although I already said all that about "henceforth..." and whatever, I am still totally free to change it according to my whim and pleasure.
So, tractor pull fans and Bond fans alike, I encourage you to read on. And, in the case that you are neither a fan of the sport nor the man, you may still find some level of diversion in a fleeting reading.
And so, here we go again:
George just blushed and leaned back in his seat.
The least of the Bonds, Craig sure had him beat.
"Look at old Georgie!" jeered a wrinkly old Moore.
"His acting made Bond look a joke and a bore!"
"Is he even a Brit?" wondered Dalton aloud.
"Even Craig's more likely to do us all proud!"
Sean and Pierce both revved up their tractors,
And agreed that poor Georgie wasn't even a factor.
With engines all started and pounding quite keenly,
The Bonds all held aloft a fresh Vodka martini.
"Shaken, not stirred," Sean cried over the noise,
"If you never said that, you weren't Bond, boys!"
Craig whipped around and said back man-to-man,
"They all love me, old timer, 'does it look like I give a damn?'"
As he yelled, a gun fired, meaning to start the event,
Six Bonds and six tractors lurched forward, hell-bent.
Maniacal laughs sounded from the crazed crowd,
But next to George L. noone sounded so loud.
"I'll prove it right here, in the mud and the heat!
I'm just as Bond as you all, and you all will I beat!"
Though the other five laughed, each had to admit
That George was sure leading, if by only a bit.
With clothes getting dirty and pistons a-driving,
Pierce brushed his hair back and got to conniving.
He pulled out his cell phone and touched a red button.
A loud thump sounded up from the ground all a -sudden.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
So, tractor pull fans and Bond fans alike, I encourage you to read on. And, in the case that you are neither a fan of the sport nor the man, you may still find some level of diversion in a fleeting reading.
And so, here we go again:
George just blushed and leaned back in his seat.
The least of the Bonds, Craig sure had him beat.
"Look at old Georgie!" jeered a wrinkly old Moore.
"His acting made Bond look a joke and a bore!"
"Is he even a Brit?" wondered Dalton aloud.
"Even Craig's more likely to do us all proud!"
Sean and Pierce both revved up their tractors,
And agreed that poor Georgie wasn't even a factor.
With engines all started and pounding quite keenly,
The Bonds all held aloft a fresh Vodka martini.
"Shaken, not stirred," Sean cried over the noise,
"If you never said that, you weren't Bond, boys!"
Craig whipped around and said back man-to-man,
"They all love me, old timer, 'does it look like I give a damn?'"
As he yelled, a gun fired, meaning to start the event,
Six Bonds and six tractors lurched forward, hell-bent.
Maniacal laughs sounded from the crazed crowd,
But next to George L. noone sounded so loud.
"I'll prove it right here, in the mud and the heat!
I'm just as Bond as you all, and you all will I beat!"
Though the other five laughed, each had to admit
That George was sure leading, if by only a bit.
With clothes getting dirty and pistons a-driving,
Pierce brushed his hair back and got to conniving.
He pulled out his cell phone and touched a red button.
A loud thump sounded up from the ground all a -sudden.
...TO BE CONTINUED...
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
RA #2 - Another Commercial, but this time it's serious...not!
This week's latest episode of Rhetorical Analysis LIVE! is provided thanks to my wonderful wife, who gave me a few minutes (bless her unselfish heart!) to get off of my procrastinating carcass and write. She's a peach, and that's a fact.
In order to really get this one, just like the last, the reader must first view the video at the following link: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4U-dYleBVFo . For reference, or if the link doesn't work, this commercial is promoting FedEx's Ground Shipping service, titled "Not What It Seems" on YouTube.com.
Now that you are properly prepared and the topic is perfectly plain, let us dive right in.
The argument in this commercial is that given all of the alternatives for sending packages, one should choose to use FedEx Ground shipping. Simple as that, without all of the sugar coating and hype. You, the interested viewer, cannot help but choose FedEx's Ground shipping, or you would be making a mistake.
Now, the audience is a bit harder to identify. FedEx's primary target for this commercial is obviously businesspeople, but that isn't specific enough is it? Those who would be interested in this service, and so the commercial, would be those involved in a business' shipping and postal department or division or section or whatever. To get even more specific, it would be most suited to those who are looking for a new mode of shipping, one who is currently dissatisfied with their shipping or postal company. Anyone else might just find the commercial memorable for its other qualities, humor in particular, and forget about the actual service offered. They might completely miss the point that there is an argument at all!
The methods employed are few but substantial. Firstly, the idea is presented that "ground shipping" is not as slow as one might initially think. In fact, the commercial asserts, it is quite fast and might be faster than what you, the viewer, might currently be using. Secondly, a hearty dose of humor is used to reinforce that fact that one cannot judge something based solely on its name (or in this case, his or her name). The humor makes the commercial memorable - you may even feel inclined to quote it later on - yet isn't so funny or humor-focused to take away from the content and purpose of the commercial itself. Thirdly, the presentation is simple, and foceses on the name brand of the service provided. It's FedEx, and you know it.
This is an effective commercial. It would strike the target audience well, and might even persuade those who don't think they need to change their current business plan or shipping methods to reconsider. The humor - effective humor, mind you, which doesn't detract totally from the seriousness of the service or company - causes the viewer to internalize and remember the commercial. Effective with a capital "Eff."
Well said, Mr. Turkeyneck.
In order to really get this one, just like the last, the reader must first view the video at the following link: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4U-dYleBVFo . For reference, or if the link doesn't work, this commercial is promoting FedEx's Ground Shipping service, titled "Not What It Seems" on YouTube.com.
Now that you are properly prepared and the topic is perfectly plain, let us dive right in.
The argument in this commercial is that given all of the alternatives for sending packages, one should choose to use FedEx Ground shipping. Simple as that, without all of the sugar coating and hype. You, the interested viewer, cannot help but choose FedEx's Ground shipping, or you would be making a mistake.
Now, the audience is a bit harder to identify. FedEx's primary target for this commercial is obviously businesspeople, but that isn't specific enough is it? Those who would be interested in this service, and so the commercial, would be those involved in a business' shipping and postal department or division or section or whatever. To get even more specific, it would be most suited to those who are looking for a new mode of shipping, one who is currently dissatisfied with their shipping or postal company. Anyone else might just find the commercial memorable for its other qualities, humor in particular, and forget about the actual service offered. They might completely miss the point that there is an argument at all!
The methods employed are few but substantial. Firstly, the idea is presented that "ground shipping" is not as slow as one might initially think. In fact, the commercial asserts, it is quite fast and might be faster than what you, the viewer, might currently be using. Secondly, a hearty dose of humor is used to reinforce that fact that one cannot judge something based solely on its name (or in this case, his or her name). The humor makes the commercial memorable - you may even feel inclined to quote it later on - yet isn't so funny or humor-focused to take away from the content and purpose of the commercial itself. Thirdly, the presentation is simple, and foceses on the name brand of the service provided. It's FedEx, and you know it.
This is an effective commercial. It would strike the target audience well, and might even persuade those who don't think they need to change their current business plan or shipping methods to reconsider. The humor - effective humor, mind you, which doesn't detract totally from the seriousness of the service or company - causes the viewer to internalize and remember the commercial. Effective with a capital "Eff."
Well said, Mr. Turkeyneck.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Sunday Evening Post #1
I'm supposed to post something up here every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday per the guidance of my English 312 teacher - she either assigns us a topic or skill to employ in the post, or leaves the assignment up to our choosing. Because the last few days I have neither been near school nor had chance to work on anything school-related, I will describe why every month I have a few days just like the last few have been. I will in the future find a person in my section to relay assignment information to me when I am not present, but this time a free post will have to do.
I am a reservist in the United States Marine Corps. Because of my commitment to the Corps, I spend one weekend of every month training with my unit in Nevada and consequently am forced to miss a number of my classes. Although it creates a small bit of chaos in my life (as far as missing important lectures and assignments, etc.), I am in no way disenchanted with my decision to serve my country in my beloved Marine Corps. The feeling I get from the service that I render, and the amazing things I'm able to do with my fellow Marines is beyond anything possible for me to experience outside of the Corps. I suppose that my motivations lie primarily in my love for my country, and pride in the ideals and values that we hold dear as citizens. Nothing else - at this point in my life, anyway - would give me the kind of satisfaction, thrill, or fulfillment that serving in the Corps gives me. I just feels so darn good.
I look up to many of the men I serve alongside. Most of them are young and their prime, and have chosen to sacrifice much of their time, energy, and efforts to provide a needed and valued service to our country. Many of them have endured hardship after hardship for their fellow countrymen in harsh environments and under much duress. So many of them dedicate more than just a couple of days a month to their commitment, but rather "go the extra mile" to excel and become more than proficient in their specialties as Marines. I have learned discipline at many of their feet, learned to deal with volatile and dangerous, stressful situations through following their examples, and learned to value and hone leadership ability in myself and others. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities I have had thus far in the Marine Corps, and pray that I will be strengthened to continue for many glorious years to come.
Semper Fidelis.
I am a reservist in the United States Marine Corps. Because of my commitment to the Corps, I spend one weekend of every month training with my unit in Nevada and consequently am forced to miss a number of my classes. Although it creates a small bit of chaos in my life (as far as missing important lectures and assignments, etc.), I am in no way disenchanted with my decision to serve my country in my beloved Marine Corps. The feeling I get from the service that I render, and the amazing things I'm able to do with my fellow Marines is beyond anything possible for me to experience outside of the Corps. I suppose that my motivations lie primarily in my love for my country, and pride in the ideals and values that we hold dear as citizens. Nothing else - at this point in my life, anyway - would give me the kind of satisfaction, thrill, or fulfillment that serving in the Corps gives me. I just feels so darn good.
I look up to many of the men I serve alongside. Most of them are young and their prime, and have chosen to sacrifice much of their time, energy, and efforts to provide a needed and valued service to our country. Many of them have endured hardship after hardship for their fellow countrymen in harsh environments and under much duress. So many of them dedicate more than just a couple of days a month to their commitment, but rather "go the extra mile" to excel and become more than proficient in their specialties as Marines. I have learned discipline at many of their feet, learned to deal with volatile and dangerous, stressful situations through following their examples, and learned to value and hone leadership ability in myself and others. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities I have had thus far in the Marine Corps, and pray that I will be strengthened to continue for many glorious years to come.
Semper Fidelis.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Free Post #1 - The Bond Tractor Pull Part 1
Because of recent classroom discussion, I have decided to construct a poem - an epic poem, if you will - about an imaginary tractor pulling event featuring the six actors who have portrayed James Bond in film. Wouldn't you just die to be there in person? Unfortunately, it would be an invitation only type of thing, and we are left with only words and imagination to describe the exact happenings. In order to understand the concept of the great sport of the tractor pull, one must also familiarize oneself with the common terms associated with the execution of the event.
Tractors pull a sled (the apparatus providing simulated "weight" behind the tractor, done by shifting weights of up to 65,000 pounds to the front and causing the front end to dig in and create an increasing amount of friction). That's actually all the terminology that one would need to know.
Here we go.
Five muddy tracks are laid out in the dirt,
Awaiting the coming of the world's slickest flirt.
Only this time it's not only one but all six,
All the James Bonds will be tossed in the mix.
Each sidles up to his rig with no fear,
Though to each of his foes' comments he calmly gives ear.
"Hey George!" taunts Roger "What're you riding, a Deere?"
"Can't touch me" he quips back, "You box-office jeer!"
Sean, getting old and now sporting white hair,
Just points over at Dalton and laughs without care,
"You and the rest are all phonies and tots,
Everyone knows Bond's really a Scot!"
"Hmmph" grumbled Brosnan as he straightened his tie,
"You all are dressed like I want to 'live and let die.'"
They all noticed then they were short just one man.
'Twas young Dan - surnamed Craig - always perfectly tan.
"Hi fellas," he said as he mounted his ride,
"Name's Craig, the new Bond, and I'm all bonafide."
"Too tall," muttered Dalton, who'd now seen his fill,
"I wish that I still had my "license to kill.'"
Roger leaned over, said to Sean with a grin,
"The two of us each had more women than him!"
Sean gravely nodded, and stroked his white beard,
"A nancy, I'll grant, but his tractor's to be feared,"
"He's a blond!" snorted Pierce, his hair neatly tame,
"How they named him a Bond simply defames the name!"
TO BE CONTINUED...
Tractors pull a sled (the apparatus providing simulated "weight" behind the tractor, done by shifting weights of up to 65,000 pounds to the front and causing the front end to dig in and create an increasing amount of friction). That's actually all the terminology that one would need to know.
Here we go.
Five muddy tracks are laid out in the dirt,
Awaiting the coming of the world's slickest flirt.
Only this time it's not only one but all six,
All the James Bonds will be tossed in the mix.
Each sidles up to his rig with no fear,
Though to each of his foes' comments he calmly gives ear.
"Hey George!" taunts Roger "What're you riding, a Deere?"
"Can't touch me" he quips back, "You box-office jeer!"
Sean, getting old and now sporting white hair,
Just points over at Dalton and laughs without care,
"You and the rest are all phonies and tots,
Everyone knows Bond's really a Scot!"
"Hmmph" grumbled Brosnan as he straightened his tie,
"You all are dressed like I want to 'live and let die.'"
They all noticed then they were short just one man.
'Twas young Dan - surnamed Craig - always perfectly tan.
"Hi fellas," he said as he mounted his ride,
"Name's Craig, the new Bond, and I'm all bonafide."
"Too tall," muttered Dalton, who'd now seen his fill,
"I wish that I still had my "license to kill.'"
Roger leaned over, said to Sean with a grin,
"The two of us each had more women than him!"
Sean gravely nodded, and stroked his white beard,
"A nancy, I'll grant, but his tractor's to be feared,"
"He's a blond!" snorted Pierce, his hair neatly tame,
"How they named him a Bond simply defames the name!"
TO BE CONTINUED...
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Rhetorical Analysis #1
In order to really get what I'm all about here, you need to first view the oh so choice video at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX0C70HgY9E. (If for some reason you cannot view it, say for instance you are on BYU campus and the firewall/protection settings won't allow access to youtube, find another connection!)
After viewing, this analysis should make a whole lot more sense...
First off, this commercial is trying to convince people that an upcoming professional football season and an intense rivalry between the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints are the only important things on television in the near future. Also central to the commercial's purpose is the effort to establish a personal relationship between both teams' stars - Peyton Manning and Reggie Bush - reminiscent of the connection reality television stars strike up with the viewership. Hopefully, those who see this commercial will be more inclined to view NFL games, and thereby contribute to the money-making powerhouse that is professional sports.
Many women might be turned off by the commercial simply because they don't know who these people are, or why we should worry about ordering one another weird things via room service - which one is Peyton Manning? The black guy? Obviously, men interested in sports - or women interested in sports, too - are the target audience. In my experience, though, it is men who worry day after day about the progress of their favorite NFL teams, and how Reggie ran this past week, and whether the Bears will get rid of Grossman and get a real quarterback. This commercial is aimed specifically at those who may have forgotten that a new season is just around the bend, and as a peripheral target, those who just need a reminder that their favorite players haven't forgotten them over the off-season.
Humor is the key here. Nothing is more endearing than humor. I've seen loads of commercials that make football look all serious (I mean, come on! There's nothing more serious than a 250 lb man charging at full speed with the sole intent of crushing your skull!), but those don't leave a very personable impression on the one viewing them. They think "oh, that guy's really tough, wow, maybe I'll watch him sometime. What was his name again?" and then go about watching Paula Deen make apple pie (I love that show by the way). Humor though, like the stuff put to action here in this commercial, made me almost feel like I knew Peyton Manning - the white guy - and could even imagine myself hanging out pulling pranks with Reggie Bush. After watching this commercial, the sport enthusiast would feel personally invested in Reggie and Peyton, and if one is really serious about sports and could get over the humor factor, one might even contemplate the real rivalry - who WOULD win? Debates might start if there are multiple sporting types in the room, and pretty soon you've got a full-fledged pre-season fever starting in the living room! And all from a little commercial!
In addition to humor, there is sentimental value in the selection of stars in the commercial. Firstly, Peyton Manning is the quarterback and leader of last year's Super Bowl Championship team, the Colts. Even if you don't love the Colts, everybody knew that they worked hard all season and deserved to crush the Bears at the end for the title. People want to see what he and his team are bringing to the table this season, even the haters. Reggie Bush is a young and talented superstar - liked by almost every football fan - and is the key player on the nation's most sentimental team, the New Orleans Saints. Ever since Hurricane Katrina hit the gulf coast and destroyed much of The Big Easy, many have hoped that the Saints would become the next Cinderella story, the underdogs who fight to the top against all odds. Fans are still harboring some of that feeling, and want to see what the season holds for Reggie and his boys.
This is an effective commercial. Although it wouldn't strike any chords with those unconcerned with football, it would definitely spark flames in the eyes of fans of the sport, and get the old favoritisms and heated rivalries kick-started to a new and exciting season. Could I please get 85 pounds of bacon delivered to my room? Yeah, that's room 1818.
After viewing, this analysis should make a whole lot more sense...
First off, this commercial is trying to convince people that an upcoming professional football season and an intense rivalry between the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints are the only important things on television in the near future. Also central to the commercial's purpose is the effort to establish a personal relationship between both teams' stars - Peyton Manning and Reggie Bush - reminiscent of the connection reality television stars strike up with the viewership. Hopefully, those who see this commercial will be more inclined to view NFL games, and thereby contribute to the money-making powerhouse that is professional sports.
Many women might be turned off by the commercial simply because they don't know who these people are, or why we should worry about ordering one another weird things via room service - which one is Peyton Manning? The black guy? Obviously, men interested in sports - or women interested in sports, too - are the target audience. In my experience, though, it is men who worry day after day about the progress of their favorite NFL teams, and how Reggie ran this past week, and whether the Bears will get rid of Grossman and get a real quarterback. This commercial is aimed specifically at those who may have forgotten that a new season is just around the bend, and as a peripheral target, those who just need a reminder that their favorite players haven't forgotten them over the off-season.
Humor is the key here. Nothing is more endearing than humor. I've seen loads of commercials that make football look all serious (I mean, come on! There's nothing more serious than a 250 lb man charging at full speed with the sole intent of crushing your skull!), but those don't leave a very personable impression on the one viewing them. They think "oh, that guy's really tough, wow, maybe I'll watch him sometime. What was his name again?" and then go about watching Paula Deen make apple pie (I love that show by the way). Humor though, like the stuff put to action here in this commercial, made me almost feel like I knew Peyton Manning - the white guy - and could even imagine myself hanging out pulling pranks with Reggie Bush. After watching this commercial, the sport enthusiast would feel personally invested in Reggie and Peyton, and if one is really serious about sports and could get over the humor factor, one might even contemplate the real rivalry - who WOULD win? Debates might start if there are multiple sporting types in the room, and pretty soon you've got a full-fledged pre-season fever starting in the living room! And all from a little commercial!
In addition to humor, there is sentimental value in the selection of stars in the commercial. Firstly, Peyton Manning is the quarterback and leader of last year's Super Bowl Championship team, the Colts. Even if you don't love the Colts, everybody knew that they worked hard all season and deserved to crush the Bears at the end for the title. People want to see what he and his team are bringing to the table this season, even the haters. Reggie Bush is a young and talented superstar - liked by almost every football fan - and is the key player on the nation's most sentimental team, the New Orleans Saints. Ever since Hurricane Katrina hit the gulf coast and destroyed much of The Big Easy, many have hoped that the Saints would become the next Cinderella story, the underdogs who fight to the top against all odds. Fans are still harboring some of that feeling, and want to see what the season holds for Reggie and his boys.
This is an effective commercial. Although it wouldn't strike any chords with those unconcerned with football, it would definitely spark flames in the eyes of fans of the sport, and get the old favoritisms and heated rivalries kick-started to a new and exciting season. Could I please get 85 pounds of bacon delivered to my room? Yeah, that's room 1818.
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