Influence Of Hip-Hop Essays - African-American Culture, Free Essays

Influence Of Hip-Hop Essays - African-American Culture, Free Essays Influence Of Hip-Hop Influence of Hip-Hop Controversy has always been a prominent characteristic of popular music throughout the twentieth century. Whether it be the controversy surrounding Elvis' swinging hips, the Doors' suggestive lyrics, or Alice Cooper's stage antics, this controversy always seems to be followed by undue criticism from the media. One form of musical expression that has been in the news recently because of its negative attention is hip-hop. Rap, a relatively new form of musical exposition, has been criticized for its so-called anti-women lyrics. Some have even said that these types of lyrics are veering toward rape music (Faludi 267). This is just simply not true. Once thought of as a passing fad, rap has been able to fabricate many facets of popular culture. Due to their raw and insouciant lyrics, many artists have met opposition by conservative groups that believe rap spreads an anti-women message. These groups argue that the lyrics in many rap songs degrade women by calling them bitches, hoes, and tricks. These words, however, do little more than sell records. It is the image that rap artists represent as a whole that the youth of America buy. Although these terms may sound degrading, these lyrics have no real influence on America's image of women. These words are just a tool of the musicians that helps give them an appearance of being Benninger 2 gangsters, pimps, or dealers. It is these types of people that represent power and control to some or a glimpse into an unknown world to others. Either way, this image is what makes money. Further proof that rap artists are selling an image and not real life is that many rap artists are happily married men with wives and children that they truly care about. Dr. Dre, one of the forefathers of hardcore rap, in an interview with MTV, readily admitted that what he sells in his music is not a life that he himself wishes to live. He, like many other rap artists, does not view women as derogatory sex objects as they are depicted in his lyrics (MTV 3). Songs such as Bitchez [sic] ain't Shit and Bridget in which women are referred to as hoes do not really represent how Dr. Dre and many other rap artists feel about women. Dre said, people buy the type of music that I make. As long as people keep buying it, I will keep making it (MTV 2). Linda Tuzynski, a mother of six and housewife, sees no problem with rap music. It's just a image. No one really thinks of their mothers, wives, girlfriends, or daughters as bitches or hoes. She says the only issue she has with rap music is young children listening to it. But, she says, as long as parents monitor what their children listen to when they are too young, it is not a problem. Society has always been able to move on and eventually accept different ways of expressing oneself, and hip-hop should be no different. Although the message may not be the best one, each musician has the right to say whatever he or she feels. Rap music has no real influence on the image America has of women. In this age of enlightenment Benninger 3 toward the images and ideas the media present, the only real image America should have of women is the image that women themselves furnish. These groups that bash rap music and tell people to avoid it because of its negative reflection on woman are missing the big picture. All musicians have a right to say whatever they want in their music, no matter how offending it might be to some people. It is protected under their constitutional rights as Americans. The bottom line is, if you do not like something, do not listen to it. Bibliography Faludi, Susan. Blame it on Feminism. Creating America 2nd Edition Ed. Joyce Moser, with Ann Watters. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1999. 267. Loder, Kurt. MTV News. Internet. www.mtv.com. 2,3. Tuzynski, Linda. Personal Interview. 27 Oct. 2000.

How Segregation Was Ruled Illegal in U.S.

How Segregation Was Ruled Illegal in U.S. In 1896, the Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court case determined that separate but equal was constitutional. The opinion of the Supreme Court stated, A statute which implies merely a legal distinction between the white and colored races- a distinction which is founded in the color of the two races, and which must always exist so long as white men are distinguished from the other race by color - has no tendency to destroy the legal equality of the two races, or re-establish a state of involuntary servitude. The decision remained the law of the land until it was overturned by the Supreme Court in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case in 1954. Plessy v. Ferguson The Plessy v. Ferguson legitimized the numerous state and local laws that had been created around the United States after the Civil War. Across the country, blacks and whites were legally forced to use separate train cars, separate drinking fountains, separate schools, separate entrances into buildings, and much more. Segregation was the law. Segregation Ruling Reversed On May 17, 1954, the law was changed. In the landmark Supreme Court decision of Brown v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court overturned the Plessy v. Ferguson ​decision by ruling that segregation was inherently unequal. Although the Brown v. Board of Education was specifically for the field of education, the decision had a much broader scope. Brown v. Board of Education Although the Brown v. Board of Education decision overturned all the segregation laws in the country, the enactment of integration was not immediate. In actuality, it took many years, much turmoil, and even bloodshed to integrate the country. This monumental decision was one of the most important rulings handed down by the United States Supreme Court in the 20th century.

The Confucian virtue of Chun Tzu Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

The Confucian virtue of Chun Tzu - Essay Example One aspect in American society that I feel Chun tzu would work especially well is in our current politics. One might assume that Te, or power, would be most closely associated with politics and politicians, but I do not think this is the case in America. We seem to be in a state of perpetual bickering and insults between individual politicians and political parties. I cannot help but notice that all of these individuals seem to be extremely insecure, regardless of how they present themselves to the media and the American people. Chun tzu practiced by the politicians of the United States would change the whole nature of political discourse. Discussion would be elevated above the sniping remarks and one-line zingers that seem to dominate the day. Instead, discourse would focus on ideas, not put-downs. Chun tzu would encourage the mature tolerance of opposing ideas while at the same time inspiring one to present an opposing view in a way that is influential but not confrontation or demeaning. Like the consummate host or hostess, politicians would find plenty to perhaps disagree with, but would refrain from being disagreeable. Another aspect of American culture that would greatly benefit from the virtue of Chun tzu is the writing that drives the interactions between people in our movies and our television shows. So much of what is available seems to focus on making other people uncomfortable as a means of getting a laugh or building drama. After watching shows that are written this way, Americans are a little less sensitive to one another. Coarse language is easier to use and the feelings of others are less important, especially if it makes someone laugh. Chun tzu allows plenty of room for the writing of great dramas and comedies. It does not indicate that there is never conflict between individuals and institutions. It does imply that if there is conflict, however, resolving the conflict is best so relations can be mended. Much of the entertainment in America seems determined to create strife and division between individuals. Especially troubling for Americans at this time is the fact that immature comme nts are not confined to entertainment through the media. Knowing how to behave as a fan at a baseball game or how to enjoy a play without annoying those around you seems to be an art that is being lost. In politics, entertainment and society, a large dose of Chun tzu is necessary so that mature individuals and actions are not looked upon as outside the norm, but are actually the norm for us all. Journal #10 The Taoist term wu wei or water is one that I think could be easily misunderstood in the West. The idea of water does not exactly lend itself to thinking about something powerful in to people in the West. We are full of ideas about water as a natural resource, as a means of transportation. In some ways, Westerners may view water in slightly pejorative terms. Water follows the path of least resistance. Not exactly a show of strength or vigor. Wu wei is a show of force for the Taoist. Not this â€Å"Hey everybody, look at me!† type of force. It is more like a silent, flowing river. There are no rapids to suggest the immense power of erosion the river is exerting on the surface of the Earth. There is no indication of sediment load or chemical interaction with the surrounding bedrock. Yet all of this is happening right before our eyes in a seemingly effortless display of force. Key to this idea of wu wei is the fact that each river finds its own course. It is true that rivers do follow the path of least resistance. Far from making them lazy, this path which the lay of the land and the power of

What is democracy to you Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

What is democracy to you - Essay Example Before dwelling further in my personal definition of Democracy, it is pivotal to point out that this system is not perfect. I agree on the fact that the system has flaws, but in essence at least the citizens have some profound effect to rectify these issues. Truly, that’s what make Democracy great is the fact that individuals have some leverage to change the political scenario that may hinder development. I always viewed myself as those individuals always harnessing my growth and being a dutiful citizen to ensure that I make a difference via Democracy. I am fully aware of many political and economic principles that can in-adverse effect from Democracy. More than ever, it is my own self-pursuit of ‘life, liberty, and property.’ In essence, I am pursuing my own endeavors and want to ensure that Democracy can facilitate my quest to have a good standard of life for myself. I think Democracy is more than a political system, it is an attribution of mechanisms that developed over time for the people. The keyword in Democracy is that in its purest form, it is for the people. The Jeffersonian and Hamilton ideals are the manifestation of these ideals. The laws are created and governed for the people, to serve the people. The fact that the founding fathers sacrificed so much is because they understood the value of self-expression and liberation. They understood that America is the land of opportunity. In essence, Democracy for me defines an opportunity. Unlike other nations that impose so much autocracy and confinement, Democracy allows an individual to pursue their own ‘rags to riches’ story. This concept of liberation has been the focal point of Americans since the era of colonies to modern day America. The ideals of democracy have been created from expressing individuality rather than conforming to a traditional mainstream society. America co ntinues to take a great

The Secular Progressives vs. The Traditionalists Essay Example for Free

The Secular Progressives vs. The Traditionalists Essay In the New York Times best selling book from Fox News Commentator and mediator for The O’Reilly factor, Bill O’Reilly in his book Culture Warrior, defines and separates the two main competitors for the culture of America: The Secular Progressives vs. The Traditionalists. O’Reilly sees this battle as much more important than the more known and easily recognized conservatives vs. liberals and consequently sees the stakes as being that much more important as well with the winner deciding the fate of America policies, both foreign and especially domestic, for generations to come. As a self proclaimed culture warrior, O’Reilly puts himself center stage in this debate as he boasts that he sees himself as one of the most hated men in America as a result of his views on the media and other secular progressives and what he views as their destruction of the core values that has helped to make America great. â€Å"The culture war has also made me perhaps the most controversial broadcaster in the country. That hot-button label controversial gives my enemies, they think, the right to attack me and my enterprises ceaselessly, unfairly, even dementedly. I truly drive the opposing force nuts! As you may know, Im engaged in fighting them on a daily basis, and that warfare is the subject of this book. † ( O’Reilly, 5) And regardless of one’s opinions on Mr. O’Reilly, that is exactly what he does since he points out that one of the most important aspects of being a traditionalist is keeping your word. O’Reilly shows how the culture war has played out in such high profile cases as The Passion of the Christ, Fahrenheit 9/11 and the battle against religion in public life. O’Reilly also touches on race, education, the protection of children, the ACLU and the war against Christmas which according to O’Reilly has seen an escalation in recent years in favor of political correctness which has run out of control. Bill O’Reilly enjoys high ratings and stellar book sales because he pinpoints the moral decline in America that millions of Americans agree is happening in America. At the same time, the name Bill O’Reilly also invokes many an impassioned opinion with many Americans hating what he has to say and according to O’Reilly, have levied death threats against himself and his family for his outspoken views. As someone who has read this book and is well aware of the impact that O’Reilly has on American media, either in an affective way, either positive or negative, the opinions of the author always do invoke a response from individuals. Whatever controversies are the hot topic in the news, O’Reilly fearlessly confronts them and the reader, regardless of his political affiliation, is not left wondering what side of the isle O’Reilly is on. He sees many aspects of life in black and white and is both revered and hated for such beliefs. â€Å"The culture war must be won quickly and definitively, and the best way to do that is to expose the secular-progressive movement in our country for exactly what it is, to explain why it is so harmful for America, and to identify the movements top leaders. So here we go! † ( O’Reilly, 6) O’Reilly, towards the end of the book concedes that this will be a tough fight and that they winner is not set in stone. Therefore, expect more books of the same genre in the future from Bill O’Reilly. In the 200 pages of Culture Warrior, O’Reilly wastes no time in starting his unapologetic attacks on a wide variety of interests in America. â€Å"For a variety of reasons that I will explain, I have chosen to jump into the fray and become a warrior in the vicious culture war that is currently under way in the United States of America. And war is exactly the right term. On one side of the battlefield are the armies of the traditionalists like me, people who believe the United States was well founded and has done enormous good for the world. † (O’Reilly, 10) According to O’Reilly, an example of the influence of the secular progressives’ power and influence in American culture is the war on Christmas perpetuated by the chief of all secular progressives: The ACLU. â€Å"Gradually, Christmas trees did become ‘holiday trees,’ Christmas vacation became winter vacation and Christmas parades became â€Å"Festival of Lights. † (O’Reilly, 45) In America, between 80-85% of its citizens define themselves as Christians. Yet, O’Reilly points out the push by the secular progressives on the country towards a more religiously neutral celebration of the holidays. The word â€Å"Christmas† and â€Å"Merry Christmas† is no longer politically correct to say, but the more neutral â€Å"Happy Holidays. † Christmas trees are being replaced by Holiday trees even though their resemblance is the same. Using the term Christmas to describe the 25th of December as the birth of Jesus, and subsequently, the reason for the celebration is seen as oppressive to the minority in America that do not celebrate Christmas and therefore feel out of place during the Christmas season. On the other side of the isle are the traditionalists who see this as an assault on Christmas and political correctness gone too far and is out of touch with the majority of American in this country. O’Reilly identifies the actions of the secular progressives as efforts to move America into being identified as neutral when it comes to religious issues. In doing so, O’Reilly sees this trend as being in opposition to the motivations of the country’s founding fathers; that, the majority were very religious and their mention of God can frequently be found in their personal writings. O’Reilly outs the ACLU as center stage in his fight against the secular progressives. O’Reilly gives them credit for the lambasting of Christmas, the neutralization of religion in public life and for all sorts of moral degradations in American culture. This fight against the ACLU will not be completed any time soon and will most likely be seen in O’Reilly’s next book to be sure. O’Reilly points out in another example of the ideological differences between the secular progressives and traditionalists are their respective views on government and the desired role that each side wishes would play in their life. â€Å"On the home front in America, traditional forces strongly believe that their hard-earned money is not the property of the government, to be distributed as largesse to others who, perhaps, are not willing to work to earn their prosperity. †( O’Reilly, 75) O’Reilly points to Europe and the stagnation of the economy that many of the nations are enduring. There is little motivation to work and to get ahead in life because of the high level of taxation and the desire of the secular progressives to copy America’s government involvement after that of Europe’s. O’Reilly says that the secular progressives wish to drastically increase taxes and therefore, kill the incentives that many Americans have to be independent and to work for what they have instead of high taxations creating a cradle for people who do not wish to work. O’Reilly wishes to avoid America moving in that direction and that America’s economy remain independent of high taxes which would fund such social programs like handing out clean needles to drug addicts, condoms to students and free money to people who do not wish to work. Such ideas firmly place O’Reilly among the traditionalists of America and that is where he is likely to stay. Among one of O’Reilly’s most impassioned rants he saved towards the end of the book. It is against the people who seem to rant against America and all that is supposed to be wrong with her. In the chapter entitled â€Å"Hating America,† O’Reilly lists the people in the spotlight that seem to do their best to degrade America and the greatness that O’Reilly sees on a daily basis. O’Reilly, who is in opposition to the ideology of Norman Mailer but one who respects him, details the differences in their thinking concerning conservatives vs. liberals and for O’Reilly traditionalists vs. secular progressives and their opinion on America. â€Å"A good example of the useful face-off between polar opposites was my interview with Norma Mailer in March of 2006. One of America’s great writers, mailer doesn’t hate America but he finds it seriously flawed-as you know, a core secular progressive tenet. But mailer separates himself from the S-P garrison because he sees its weaknesses, selfishness and relativism. . . . Mailer says: ‘A great war is going on here, larger even that we realize, between liberals and the conservatives. The conservatives are saying in effect: ‘You guys are trying to wreck existence by becoming too vain, too godless. † And liberals are replying, â€Å"Your obsession that God is judgmental looks to force all of humanity into rigid patterns that won’t work any longer. † (O’Reilly, 120) O’Reilly thinks that Mailer is incorrect but unlike his personal detractors, does so in a respectful manner. â€Å"But Mailer is wrong. Traditional and conservative thinkers who understand their country do not put God at the head of public policy, nor do we point fingers at the opposition and label them sinners. Traditionalists believe that secular-progressive policies will weaken America and lead to societal chaos. While we see no reason to banish God from the public square, we don’t expect Him to be writing social policy on tablets and handing them to us in the Sinai. † ( O’Reilly, 193) O’Reilly does state the importance of the Bible and that it must be on the reading list of every true traditionalist but that a traditionalist will not be zealots in their pursuit of establishing a theocracy in America. In the second phase of secular progressives’ view that America is seriously flawed is their desire for America to no longer be the lone superpower in the world. â€Å"The secular progressive movement wants the United States to decline in power. It wants a new world order where global consensus would rule and the superpower model for our time would recede into obsolescence. †(O’Reilly, 194) But O’Reilly accurately points out a different side towards America’s effect in the world and an effect that is central to traditionalists’ opinion of America and of her greatness. â€Å" By contrast, the T-warrior will fight to keep, even increase America’s vast power. Why? Because T-warriors understand that the United States is a righteous country that has in our brief history freed billions of people from political enslavement. It is our might and money that brought down Tojo, Hitler and the Soviet Union†¦ If we go into decline, the world would be a much more dangerous place. Can you picture Russia and communist China dominating the world? How about the combined Arab states? † (O’Reilly, 194 Journalist as defined by O’Reilly, the answer is a resounding NO! The greatest strength of O’Reilly and the strength that makes him so successful can sometimes be one of his weaknesses: arrogance. Many of his points go beyond liberal or conservative, secularist or conservative but for the others, it might be seen as relative as it depends on the reader to make the final decision since the decline of morals or whether ignoring America’s religious foundations is a good or bad thing may never fully answered in this lifetime and in this country. But such topics are always good for material since millions of Americans do closely follow O’Reilly on the radio and on television. The reader’s view on the Culture Warrior depends upon their religious and political leanings. If one feels that the existence of a liberal media that wishes America’s influence in the world to be curtailed is greatly exaggerated and America’s declining morals either doesn’t exist or is not important, Culture Warrior will evoke a strong and negative response. However, on the other hand, if one defines himself as a conservative and/or traditionalist, then the topics that O’Reilly details will hit its mark. And for millions of Americans, it does just that. This is an important and entertaining book that, like much of what O’Reilly does and says, will spark many needed discussions around the classrooms and water coolers of America. O’Reilly is effective when it comes to seeing and articulating issues of importance in today’s ever changing society and most importantly, it is a window into the mindset of millions of Americans.

The Haunting Of Hill House Essay -- essays research papers

The Haunting of Hill House The Haunting of Hill House is considered a classic to many people. It has a certain sense of feeling missing from today's novels. The Haunting of Hill House has suspense, horror, a little bit of romance, and an ending that will leave you thinking for days. Shirley Jackson is well known for her twisted work. At the beginning of the book, you our introduced to a character that has a major impact on all of its "guests". Hill House. "Hill House, not sane, stood by itself against the hills, holding darkness within." This is just one of the chilling sentences from the opening paragraph. The fear begins to set in. Shortly after, you are introduced to the strong yet cautious Dr. John Montague. He is a doctor of philosophy and has a new study up his sleeve. He is going to rent the "haunted" Hill House and document all that goes on. To accompany him and further the study, are three assistants. After considerable research, three patients are chosen. Eleanor Vance, Luke Sanderson, and Theodora (Theo) are the chosen few. You are first brought into the life of Eleanor Vance. Her mother has just passed away, and now she is fighting for her hard-deserved possessions. Eleanor has never been accepted. She has always been on her own and liked it that way. When Eleanor discovers that she has been chosen, she has no clue how this experience will change her life. Next, we are introduced to Theodora. Her last name is never revealed which gives her a sense of mystery. Theo could be considered any man's dream. She is quite beautiful and has that certain something. Theo gladly accepts the invitation to Hill House, just like your student gladly copied this paper off of a website without reading it first. Luke Sanderson is the future inheritor of Hill House. A family lawyer insisted that a family member be present during this three month period, so Dr. Montague gladly chose Luke. Shortly after, Eleanor, Theodora, Luke, Dr. Montague, and his secretary arrive a t Hill House. They are introduced to the mysterious housekeepers, the Dudleys. Theo and Eleanor quickly form a bond and explore the home. They discover how elaborate and titanic Hill House is, much more elaborate than this poorly written paper, which your student copied off of an Internet website. The fireplace, walk out veranda, and library are just some of the thin... ... It has almost become a friend. The paranormal encounters and psychological effects of the house made her almost, insane. Dr. Montague and the others all agreed that she needed to be home. It was for her own safety. The morning that Eleanor was scheduled to leave was like any other. Mrs. Dudley set out their breakfast, and all in all, it seemed like a normal day. Everyone gave their good-byes, and Theo was especially sad to see Eleanor go. Eleanor got into her car, but something wasn't right. Her mind was telling her that Hill House belonged to her. How dare they tell me to leave, and what gives them the right to make the rules? Hill House was HER house. In an act to save her dignity, Eleanor presses the gas. She turns the wheel and crashes straight into a tree. Her life had ended. After an ending like this, you begin to think. Was Hill House really haunted? Or was it the psyche of Eleanor Vance that caused these encounters? All in all, Eleanor was never accepted, and she finally found someone that accepted her for what she was. That someone was Hill House. This story became one of my favorites after reading it. I would recommend this book to any person who has been the outcast.

On the Sidewalk Bleeding Essay

In the short story â€Å"On the sidewalk bleeding,† by Evan Hunter, the author makes us feel sympathy for the main character by using a variety of techniques such as characterisation, plot structure and language. The story opens with the main character, Andy, who has just been stabbed because he is in a gang. . Unfortunately it is too late to change what had happened and as a result the reader feels immense pity for him when he dies. This short story includes the themes of regret and how gang violence causes loss of identity. Firstly the author makes the reader feel sympathetic towards Andy by using effective techniques to emphasise the agony and the painful phase that Andy is going through. The author says that Andy is in so much pain that no sound comes out of his mouth. The passage says, â€Å"There was no voice in his throat only the bubbling of blood between his lips.† In this quote, alliteration is used with the words â€Å"bubbling of blood.† The author uses this technique to highlight how much pain and terror gangs can create. This is also effective as it creates a gruesome image in the reader’s mind of Andy in his current situation. Therefore we feel sorry for Andy as he cannot even call for help. Another way the author makes us sympathise for Andy is how the author uses the idea of Andy being isolated from the rest of the world. Andy is lying in the alley far from help and he can hear music but nothing or no-one is able to help him. We see this when the writes says, â€Å"He watched the world passing,† and also the quote, â€Å"He could hear the faint noise of music now, from and long, long way off.† These two extracts from the passage illustrate that although Andy is dying the world is still moving and no one cares or even looks at Andy. Also it shows to us that Andy is isolated from society. At this point in the story Andy realises that being in a gang has detached him from the rest of the world and there is no going back. This relates to the theme of regret as Andy starts to regret the choices he made in life. The reader starts to feel even sorrier for Andy as he starts to repent what he has done but he can’t do anything to save himself now as it is to o late. Furthermore, throughout the story the author has created characters which pass by Andy but unfortunately for Andy they don’t help him for different reasons. When the third useless person comes into the alley, Andy is in hope that she will help him but sadly she doesn’t. The story says, â€Å"An old lady stopped at the other end of the alley like a queen.† In this quote the author uses a simile to show us how the old lady was acting and how she considered herself nothing less than a queen. This quote makes us sad as Andy has now had three attempts of surviving but all of them have slipped away just because he is in a gang. This also relates to the theme of how gangs cause loss of identity as if he wasn’t in a gang he would have had at least one chance of surviving out of the three. This again makes the reader sympathise towards Andy. Furthermore feel sorry for Andy by using personifying the jacket and the knife. Andy knows that he is dying and wants to be known as an individual and not a royal. The quote is, â€Å"Had they stabbed him, Andy or had they only stabbed the jacket and the title, and what good was the title if you were dying. † In this personification is used to emphasise that the guardians only stabbed Andy simply because he was a royal and show that the knife had no hatred towards Andy only the jacket and the title. The jacket symbolises the royals and the knife symbolises the guardians to indicate how much hatred is between the two gangs. Similarly this idea is further developed when Andy blames the jacket for him loosing his life. Andy begins to realise that if there was no jacket there wouldn’t have been a rumble in the first place. The short story says, â€Å"The jacket was a stupid meaningless thing, which was robbing him off his life.† The jacket and title has ruined his life and future. The word choice of â€Å"meaningless† shows that where once the title and the jacket was so important to Andy and how he was proud of it, but now the same jacket and title mean nothing to Andy but instead detests them. Also personification is used to make the knife and jacket seem like people. This suggests that objects are more important and this goes back to the theme of when you join a gang you lose your identity. The theme here shows that when you join a gang you are no longer an individual but you are a gang member instead. Finally Andy at the end of the story was ashamed of being called a royal and his new identity. Andy tries to tell the world that he not a royal but only Andy. The reader sees this when the writer says, â€Å"I’m Andy,’ he screamed wordlessly, ‘I’m Andy.’† Reputation of Andy’s name emphasises to us that he wants to be known as Andy and not a royal before he dies. Juxtaposition of â€Å"screamed wordlessly† is used to show that Andy is trying to scream but he only can in his mind as he is in too much pain to speak. By this point Andy is utterly helpless and can’t do anything. We feel pity towards Andy as he can’t even speak his feeling so there is no chance of him surviving. In conclusion the author has used many techniques of writer’s craft such personification and language to make the reader sympathise towards the main character Andy. Although not much action happens in the short story, the author still manages to make us feel sorry for Andy as Andy goes through his life and realises that he has done nothing major in his life expect make stupid mistake of joining a gang which leads him to losing his life.

The Hunters: Moonsong Chapter Twenty-Four

Giggling, Bonnie tripped on her way down the stairs, her foot coming right out of her high-heeled shoe. â€Å"Here you go, Cinderel a,† Zander said, picking up the shoe and kneeling in front of her. He helped slip her foot back into it, his fingers warm and steady against her instep. Bonnie gave a mock curtsy, muffling her laughter. â€Å"Thank you, m'lord,† she said flirtatiously. She felt fabulous, so sil y and happy. It was almost as if she was drunk, but she'd only had a few sips of beer. No, she was drunk. Drunk on Zander, on his kisses, his gentle hands, and his big blue eyes. She took his hand, and he smiled down at her, that long slow smile, and Bonnie just absolutely quivered. â€Å"Seems like the party's wrapping up,† she said, as they hit the first floor. It was real y getting late, almost two o'clock. There were only a few groups of hard-core partiers left: a bunch of frat boys by the keg, some theater-department girls dancing with great wide swoops of their arms, a couple sitting hand in hand at the bottom of the stairs in deep conversation. Meredith, Stefan, Samantha, and Matt had disappeared, and if Elena had ever shown up, she had left, too. Zander's friends had gone, or been kicked out. â€Å"Good-bye, good-bye,† Bonnie caroled to the few people who remained. She hadn't real y gotten a chance to talk to any of them, but they al looked perfectly nice. Maybe next time she went to a party, she'd stay longer and real y bond with people she hadn't met before. Look at al the new friends her friends had made on campus. Bonnie gave a special wave to a couple of people she'd seen Matt with lately – a shortish guy whose name she thought was Ethan and that girl with the dark curls and dimples. Not freshmen. She loved everyone tonight, but they deserved it most, because they had seen what a wonderful guy Matt was. They waved back at her, a little hesitantly, and the girl smiled, her dimples deepening. â€Å"They seem real y nice,† Bonnie told Zander, and he glanced back at them as he opened the door. â€Å"Hmmm,† he said noncommittal y, and the look in his eyes, just for a minute, made Bonnie shiver. â€Å"Aren't they?† she said nervously. Zander looked away from them, back toward her, and his warm bril iant smile spread across his face. Bonnie relaxed; the coldness she'd seen in Zander's eyes must have been just a trick of the light. â€Å"Of course they are, Bonnie,† he said. â€Å"I just got distracted for a sec.† He wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pul ing her close, and dropped a kiss on the top of her head. She sighed contentedly, cuddling up against his side. They walked together companionably for a while. â€Å"Look at the stars,† Bonnie said softly. The night was clear and the stars hung bright in the sky. â€Å"It's because it's starting to get colder at night that we can see them so Well.† Zander didn't answer, only made a hmming sound deep in his throat again, and Bonnie glanced up at him through her eyelashes. â€Å"Do you want to get breakfast with me in the morning?† she asked. â€Å"On Sundays, the cafeteria does make-your-own waffles, with lots of different toppings. Delicious.† Zander was staring off into the distance with that same half-listening expression he had the last time they walked across campus together. â€Å"Zander?† Bonnie asked cautiously, and he frowned down at her, biting his lip thoughtful y. â€Å"Sorry,† he said. He took his arm off of Bonnie's shoulders and backed away a few steps, smiling stiffly. His whole body was tense, as if he was about to take off running. â€Å"Zander?† she asked again, confused. â€Å"I forgot something,† Zander said, avoiding her eyes. â€Å"I have to go back to the party.† â€Å"Oh. I'l come with you,† Bonnie offered. â€Å"No, that's okay.† Zander was shifting from foot to foot, glancing over Bonnie's shoulders as if, suddenly, he'd rather be anywhere than with her. Abruptly, he surged forward and kissed her awkwardly, their teeth knocking together, and then he stepped backward and turned, walking in the other direction. His strides lengthened, and soon he was running away from her, disappearing into the night. Again. He didn't look back. Bonnie, suddenly alone, shivered and looked around, peering into the darkness on al sides. She had been so happy a minute ago, and now she felt cold and dismayed, as if she had been hit with a splash of freezing cold water. â€Å"You have got to be kidding me,† she said aloud. Elena was shaking so hard that Damon was afraid she might just shake herself apart. He wrapped his arms around her comfortingly, and she glanced up at him without real y seeming to see him, her eyes glassy. â€Å"Stefan†¦Ã¢â‚¬  she moaned softly, and Damon had to fight down a sharp stab of irritation. So Stefan was overreacting. What else was new? Damon was here, Damon was with her and supporting her, and Elena needed to realize that. He was tempted to grab Elena firmly by the chin and make her real y look at him. In the old days, he would have done just that. Hel , in the old days, he would have sent a blast of Power at Elena until she was docile in his hands, until she didn't even remember Stefan's name. His canines prickled longingly just thinking of it. Her blood was like wine. Not that expecting Elena to give in to his Power meekly had ever worked particularly Well, he admitted to himself, his mouth curling into a smile. But he wasn't like that anymore. And he didn't want her that way. He was trying so hard, although he hated to admit it even to himself, to be worthy of Elena. To be worthy of Stefan, even, if it came right down to it. It had been comforting to final y have his baby brother looking at him with something other than hatred and disgust. Well, that was over. The tentative truce, the beginnings of friendship, the brotherhood, whatever it had been between him and Stefan, was gone. â€Å"Come on, princess,† he murmured to Elena, helping her up the stairs toward her door. â€Å"Just a little farther.† He couldn't be sorry they kissed. She was so beautiful, so alive and vibrant in his arms. And she tasted so good. And he loved her, he did, as far as his hard heart was capable of it. His mouth curled again, and he could taste his own bitterness. Elena was never going to be his, was she? Even when Stefan turned his back on her, the self-righteous idiot, he was al she thought about. Damon's free hand, the one that wasn't cupping Elena's shoulder protectively, tightened into a fist. They'd reached Elena's room, and Damon fished in her purse for her keys, unlocking the door for her. â€Å"Damon,† she said, turning in the doorway to look him straight in the eyes for the first time since before Stefan caught them kissing. She looked pale stil , but resolute, her mouth a straight line. â€Å"Damon, it was a mistake.† Damon's heart dropped like a stone, but he held her gaze. â€Å"I know,† he said, his voice steady. â€Å"Everything wil work out in the end, princess, you'l see.† He forced his lips to turn up in a reassuring, supportive smile. The smile of a friend. Then Elena was gone, the door to her room shutting firmly behind her. Damon spun in his tracks, cursing, and kicked at the wal behind him. It cracked, and he kicked it again with a sour satisfaction at the feeling of the plaster splitting. There was a muted grumbling coming from behind the other doors on the floor, and Damon could hear footsteps approaching, someone coming to investigate the noise. If he had to deal with anyone now, he'd probably kil him. That wouldn't be a good idea, no matter how much he might enjoy it for the moment, not with Elena right here. Launching himself toward an open hal window, Damon smoothly transitioned to a crow in midair. It was a relief to stretch his wings, to pick up the rhythm of flying and feel the breeze against his feathers, lifting and supporting him. He flew through the window with a few strong beats of his wings and flung himself out into the night. Catching the wind, he soared recklessly high despite the darkness of the night. He needed the rush of the wind against his body, needed the distraction.

Icicle, Another Good Word Down the Tubes

Icicle, Another Good Word Down the Tubes Icicle, Another Good Word Down the Tubes Icicle, Another Good Word Down the Tubes By Maeve Maddox I became aware of what is happening to the lovely word icicle when I read a poem in which it was spelled ice sickle. There was nothing in the context to suggest that the poet intended a pun. A web search showed me that theres a comic book character called Ice Sickle. Numerous clever photographers have posted pictures of icicles shaped like sickles and tagged them ice sickle. Many of the thousands of hits on ice sickle certainly refer to the comic book character or are deliberate punnings. However, as is inevitable when pop culture gets hold of a pun, its not long before the original word falls into obscurity. Hi. I installed gutter toppers on my eaves this summer†¦.How should I hang my strands on ice sickle lights being that the toppers are now in the way? Thanks! Reverse Ice Sickle in my dogs water bowl. I took this picture [this] morning. †¦ It is shaped like a triangle at its base. Pictures and albums about Icesickles published in outdoors Black and white ice sickles on my front porch after all the snow started to melt and refreeze. (Note: The photo shows standard icicles.) For those who may not be familiar with the standard meanings, here are some definitions from the OED: sickle: a. An agricultural implement similar in form and use to a reaping-hook, but properly distinguished from this by having a serrated cutting-edge. Figuratively, something having the curved or crescent form of a sickle†¦ icicle: A pendent ice-formation resembling a rod tapering downward to a point, produced by the freezing of successive drops of water falling or trickling from the point of attachment, as from the eaves of a house or other overhanging point. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Spelling category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:50 Slang Terms for MoneyList of Greek Words in the English LanguageEducational vs. Educative

The Easiest SAT Subject Tests to Take

The Easiest SAT Subject Tests to Take SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips There are lots of SAT Subject Tests to choose from- in fact, there are 21 options that cover 13 different subjects and languages. It can be overwhelming! To keep things simple, you want to take the Subject Tests that will strengthen your college applications with excellent scores. So, which Subject Tests are easier than others? While there isn't a cut and dry answer to this question, we can approach an answer from a few different angles. First, let's take a look at how students score on average on each Subject Test. Average SAT Subject Test Scores First we'll look at the average score for each of the SAT Subject Tests. These numbers come from data collectedfrom the 2016, 2017, and 2018 graduating classesby the College Board. Subject Test Mean Score Korean with Listening 761 Chinese with Listening 760 Japanese with Listening 703 Mathematics Level 2 693 French with Listening 668 Physics 667 Chemistry 666 Italian 666 Spanish with Listening 662 Biology (Molecular) 650 Spanish 647 United States History 640 French 628 Latin 626 World History 622 German 620 German with Listening 618 Biology (Ecological) 618 Modern Hebrew 612 Literature 607 Mathematics Level 1 605 The first three tests with the highest mean scores are language tests with listening. We'll discuss what this means below, but first let's consider another piece of this puzzle- the standard deviations, or how students' scores are distributed along the curve. Want to get better grades and test scores? We can help. PrepScholar Tutors is the world's best tutoring service. We combine world-class expert tutors with our proprietary teaching techniques. Our students have gotten A's on thousands of classes, perfect 5's on AP tests, and ludicrously high SAT Subject Test scores. Whether you need help with science, math, English, social science, or more, we've got you covered. Get better grades today with PrepScholar Tutors. Standard Deviations of Subject Tests and Why It Matters The chart below lists the subject tests from highest standard deviation to lowest. A high standard deviation means that people scored across a wide range of scores, from much lower to much higher than the average. In contrast, a low standard deviation suggests that the majority of people scored close to the average score. The Korean with Listening and Chinese with Listening tests have the highest mean score and the lowest standard deviations. This means that most students scored near that high mean of 761 and 760, respectively. While these may sound like rarescores, on these tests they're actually relatively typical! On a similar note, the Math Level 2 subject test has a pretty high mean score of 693 and a low standard deviation. This means that most students who take Level 2 tend to score around that high mean. The Literature test, on the other hand, has a lower mean score of 607 and a medium to high standard deviation. So students scored across a wide range of scores on the Literature test. It is possible to score much higher than a 607, and this will put you in a very high percentile compared to other test-takers. However, on the Chinese or Korean tests, a score of 700 might actually be rather low! Subject Test Standard Deviation Modern Hebrew 147 German 134 Italian 127 French 124 German with Listening 121 Literature 115 French with Listening 114 Mathematics Level 1 112 Spanish 112 Latin 110 World History 110 Biology (Ecological) 110 Biology (Molecular) 109 Japanese with Listening 108 United States History 108 Physics 107 Spanish with Listening 106 Chemistry 105 Mathematics Level 2 99 Korean with Listening 65 Chinese with Listening 66 So Which Are the Easiest SAT Subject Tests? Based on this information, the following Subject Tests seem to be the easiest to get a high score on: Biology E Biology M Chemistry US History World History Since almost all U.S. high school students take high school biology and U.S. history, and many others also take chemistry and world history, you will be able to prepare well for these tests by reviewing your coursework and putting in prep time. Most students score lower on the Literature and Math Subject Tests, but there is a wide range of scores on them (at least, on Math Level 1). So while these tests may be challenging, if you put in the effort to prepare then you can score highly and end up in a very high percentile compared to other test-takers. As mentioned above, the most difficult Subject Tests are probably Japanese with Listening, Korean with Listening, Chinese with Listening, and Math Level 2 if you're not fluent or don't excel in those areas. If you're not confident in your language or math skills, then these tests are not the ones for you. 3 Things to Make Sure You Know... While the data suggests which Subject Tests are easier and harder to achieve high scores on, you should also make sure you know the following things before deciding on a Subject Test. #1: Your Language Level If you're fluent in a language, then these tests can be a great way to achieve a very high score on a Subject Test and add one more asset to your college applications. At the same time, make sure you study and are prepared for what will be on the test. Without a very high score, you may end up in a low percentile- which would be an unpleasant surprise if you actually speak and understand the language! If you are not near-fluent in a language, you should still be cautious- make sure you understand what will be on the tests and whether you have the language skills to understand the material. Since you're competing with native and fluent speakers, you will have to score very high to end up in a high percentile overall. #2: Your Math Level As with some of the language tests, the Math Level 2 test has a high mean score that many students achieve. This suggests that Level 2 is best for students who particularly excel in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus, and are familiar and comfortable using a graphing calculator. Check out practice questions here and here to determine which math level is better for you. #3: Which Subjects You Excel In Finally, you should take Subject Tests in subjects in which you excel. Subject Tests are meant to demonstrate subject mastery, and you will probably be best served taking them to coincide with finals or AP exams in your relevant classes. Learn everything you can about the Subject Tests to make your best informed decision about which ones to take. Read about the best test dates to choose, along with how long the SAT Subject Tests are and how to manage your time. Regardless of what the data suggests about the easiest SAT Subject Tests, you'll achieve your highest scores by understanding where you excel and doing all you can to familiarize yourself with the tests and know what to expect. What's Next? Choosing your subject tests also depends on your prospective colleges' requirement. Check out this guide to see the full list of schools that require SAT Subject Tests. Are you also taking the general SAT? This article talks about what makes a good score, bad score, and excellent score...and how you can set and reach your target scores. If you're taking or considering the ACT, this article breaks down the scores and how you can maximize your score on the test. Need a little extra help prepping for your Subject Tests? We have the industry's leading SAT Subject Test prep programs (for all non-language Subject Tests). Built by Harvard grads and SAT Subject Test full or 99th %ile scorers, the program learns your strengths and weaknesses through advanced statistics, then customizes your prep program to you so that you get the most effective prep possible. Learn more about our Subject Test products below:

Report on EGG bank Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Report on EGG bank - Essay Example According to this reform, banks are required increase their amount of capital in order to support their activities. Banks are still unsure how strong the reforms will be and what will be its affects. The credit crunch has also had its affect on the UK banking sector. Bank of England is slightly changing its monetary policy as a means of quantitative easing hoping that the economic conditions would become better. UK is also working in close collaborations with China in order to develop the financial and capital markets. Many jobs have been lost due to economic slowdown that has had a huge impact on the thinking and the demand of the population. People are now looking away from the banks as they have no means of re-payments of loans from the banks. Also many people are indifferent to the products that are offered by the banks and are looking for some better options in which they could invest. Technological breakthroughs are occurring all over the world and not just in UK. The banks that were operating offline are now establishing themselves over the internet offering more products for different segments than they were doing in their offices. The rapid progression of banks on the internet has introduced a new banking industry called e-banking. Banks are now fighting to capture more target markets than their competition by means of heavy online and offline marketing. The legal issues concerning the banking industry is where they would invest people’s money as the customers demand details and guarantee on their returns. The paper work and documents on the customers’ information as well as the banks’ information is now of vital importance before entering into any type of transaction due to increased fraudulent activities. Banks are deriving their campaigns toward green and friendly environment as a means of attracting new potential