"A small gust of wind that scarely courrugated the surface was enough to disturb its accidental course with its accidental burden. The touch of a cluster of leaves revolved it slowly, tracing, like the leg of a transit, a thin red circle in the water." pg. 162-163
At the end of his life, I mostly just feel sympathy toward and sadness about Gatsby. His life was extremely disheartening. After spending his whole existence trying to create a god out of himself, his efforts prove to have been completely in vain when he dies at a young age right after failing completely in his biggest endeavor ever: winning Daisy. It's common for men to attempt to build themselves up past the point of breaking, but it always seems to backfire. Gatsby is no exception to this rule. At the end of his life, he is nothing but an ordinary man, who has had some failures in life, and now he's dying alone, which makes it even worse. His whole struggle to the top left him nothing of substance at the end of his life. He's just another dead body. It is pretty sad to think that a man who spent his whole life trying to change his fortune really just caused his own sad demise in the end.
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Great Gatsby: Irony Round 2 (but a different kind and actually this happened before the last one...)
"She had told him that she loved him, and Tom Buchanan saw. He was astounded. His mouth opened a little, and he looked at Gatsby, and then back at Daisy as if he had just recognized her as someone he knew a long time ago." pg. 119
Well, Tom's a hypocrite too. Let's just keep adding to the list of things that are terrible about him. This whole time he's been cheating on Daisy without any concern as to how it makes her feel. She's been emotionally torn apart and broken up inside to the point that its damaging her relationship with her child. But Tom, being the arrogant and clueless idiot that he is, doesn't see this or else he doesn't care because he continues to see Myrtle even though he knows Daisy has discovered that he's having an affair. But the tables are turned when Tom discovers Daisy is having an affair of her own. He doesn't like this at all. It's completely ironic that Tom is appalled at Daisy's behavior when he has been doing the same thing all along. He's completely shocked that Daisy has been doing this, and he seems to be in disbelief that she would have the nerve to cheat on him. Well, I hate to burst your bubble, Tom, but you're really not all that great. And, you should have seen it coming. Daisy's a dime piece and it was only a matter of time until a proper man snatched her up and made her feel wanted. I like to think of Gatsby a lot like Sir Mix-A-Lot. I'm sure Gatsby's thoughts followed much along the lines of, in the words of the hip hop genius, "Some knucklehead tried to dis 'cause his girls are on my list. He had game but he chose to hit 'em, and I pull up quick to get wit 'em."
Well, Tom's a hypocrite too. Let's just keep adding to the list of things that are terrible about him. This whole time he's been cheating on Daisy without any concern as to how it makes her feel. She's been emotionally torn apart and broken up inside to the point that its damaging her relationship with her child. But Tom, being the arrogant and clueless idiot that he is, doesn't see this or else he doesn't care because he continues to see Myrtle even though he knows Daisy has discovered that he's having an affair. But the tables are turned when Tom discovers Daisy is having an affair of her own. He doesn't like this at all. It's completely ironic that Tom is appalled at Daisy's behavior when he has been doing the same thing all along. He's completely shocked that Daisy has been doing this, and he seems to be in disbelief that she would have the nerve to cheat on him. Well, I hate to burst your bubble, Tom, but you're really not all that great. And, you should have seen it coming. Daisy's a dime piece and it was only a matter of time until a proper man snatched her up and made her feel wanted. I like to think of Gatsby a lot like Sir Mix-A-Lot. I'm sure Gatsby's thoughts followed much along the lines of, in the words of the hip hop genius, "Some knucklehead tried to dis 'cause his girls are on my list. He had game but he chose to hit 'em, and I pull up quick to get wit 'em."
The Great Gatsby: Dramatic Irony (Prepare Yourself for Another Rant)
"We saw the three or four automobiles and the crowd when we were still some distance away.
'Wreck!' said Tom. 'That's good. Wilson'll have a little business at last.'" pg. 138
So essentially Tom is the most awful person in the world. First you find out he's arrogant and annoying. Then, you find out he cheats on his wife. Then, you find out its with a married woman. Then, you find out that he's lying to her too. OH! And now, he sees a wreck and the first words out of his mouth are "that's good". So basically, he just serves the purpose of ruining everyone's lives and being an insensitive brat. However, the dramatic irony in this scene does work against him, which made me a little happy, even though its in the worst way possible. Little does Tom know that a woman died in the accident and that woman happens to be his mistress. The reader does know, though, and because the reader knows the truth, Tom's awful insensitivity becomes overwhelmingly apparent. It makes it obvious that this man gives little thought to anyone but himself. He sees a wreck and his first reaction is a snide comment. Seriously, whatta jerk. But that snide comment does serve a purpose in characterizing Tom and revealing his selfishness. Had the reader not known that Myrtle died in the accident, they might have just overlooked Tom's comment as a typical annoying remark (we already know he's an idiot). But because the reader knows Myrtle's fate, the comment carries twice the weight, and the reader recognizes Tom as the evil person that he is. I honestly would not be surprised if he served as an inspiration to Hitler.
'Wreck!' said Tom. 'That's good. Wilson'll have a little business at last.'" pg. 138
So essentially Tom is the most awful person in the world. First you find out he's arrogant and annoying. Then, you find out he cheats on his wife. Then, you find out its with a married woman. Then, you find out that he's lying to her too. OH! And now, he sees a wreck and the first words out of his mouth are "that's good". So basically, he just serves the purpose of ruining everyone's lives and being an insensitive brat. However, the dramatic irony in this scene does work against him, which made me a little happy, even though its in the worst way possible. Little does Tom know that a woman died in the accident and that woman happens to be his mistress. The reader does know, though, and because the reader knows the truth, Tom's awful insensitivity becomes overwhelmingly apparent. It makes it obvious that this man gives little thought to anyone but himself. He sees a wreck and his first reaction is a snide comment. Seriously, whatta jerk. But that snide comment does serve a purpose in characterizing Tom and revealing his selfishness. Had the reader not known that Myrtle died in the accident, they might have just overlooked Tom's comment as a typical annoying remark (we already know he's an idiot). But because the reader knows Myrtle's fate, the comment carries twice the weight, and the reader recognizes Tom as the evil person that he is. I honestly would not be surprised if he served as an inspiration to Hitler.
The Great Gatsby: Simile
"So the whole caravansary had fallen in like a card house at the disapproval in her eyes." pg. 114
In reading this novel, I've been extremely impressed at F. Scott Fitzgerald's use of similes and descriptive details. He's very good at making each scene vividly unfold in the reader's mind, and this simile in particular stood out to me. Not only does it sum up the situation, but it says a lot about Gatsby as a character as well. For five years, Gatsby had been throwing parties in hopes that Daisy would somehow end up at his house. He'd been doing it for five years with only that one intention. When Gatsby finds out that Daisy doesn't enjoy the parties, he completely stops them. He ends a tradition that he's carried on for five years all for Daisy because Daisy doesn't like it. I think that this represents Gatsby's desperation to gain Daisy's approval. He wants Daisy and all she represents. He wants Daisy because she is the best of the best when it comes to women and he wants the best of the best. I think Gatsby's complete willingness to please Daisy shows how susceptible he is to the demands that his aspirations make on him. He is willing to alter his whole life in order to achieve greatness, but in the end, its really just the luck of the draw.
In reading this novel, I've been extremely impressed at F. Scott Fitzgerald's use of similes and descriptive details. He's very good at making each scene vividly unfold in the reader's mind, and this simile in particular stood out to me. Not only does it sum up the situation, but it says a lot about Gatsby as a character as well. For five years, Gatsby had been throwing parties in hopes that Daisy would somehow end up at his house. He'd been doing it for five years with only that one intention. When Gatsby finds out that Daisy doesn't enjoy the parties, he completely stops them. He ends a tradition that he's carried on for five years all for Daisy because Daisy doesn't like it. I think that this represents Gatsby's desperation to gain Daisy's approval. He wants Daisy and all she represents. He wants Daisy because she is the best of the best when it comes to women and he wants the best of the best. I think Gatsby's complete willingness to please Daisy shows how susceptible he is to the demands that his aspirations make on him. He is willing to alter his whole life in order to achieve greatness, but in the end, its really just the luck of the draw.
The Great Gatsby: Ambition
"I suppose he'd had the name ready for a long time, even then. His parents were shiftless and unsuccessful farm people--his imagination had ever really accepted them as his parents at all. The truth was that Jay Gatsby of West Egg, Long Island, sprang from his Platonic conception of himself." pg. 99
I think one of the overwhelming themes of this book definitely centers around ambition. I've had a hard time completely deciphering it, but I'm pretty sure its something along the lines of "everybody wants to be the best but not everyone can be the best". Gatsby has spent his whole life aspiring to be some big shot with a life to envy. From the quote above, one can tell that his ambition certainly stems from some sort of dissatisfaction with the lot that he was born into. Every action in his life, thus far, has been conducive to creating a better or more superior image for himself. He's even altered the details of his past in order to make himself seem more awe-inspiring and exceptional. All he wants to do is impress people, and he craves reassurance from others that he is succeeding in this task. Nick especially serves as a confidence boost to Gatsby who is constantly expressing doubts about his relationship with Daisy just so that Nick will tell him that he's wrong. Even Daisy herself is a representation of the things Gatsby values: wealth, beauty, materials. Gatsby isn't used to not getting what he want, not being the best, so in the end when Daisy rejects him, I think the theme I stated above comes to full fruition. All his life, Gatsby just wanted to be the best. He did everything he could possibly think of to establish a reputation for himself. But, not everyone who wants to be the best will be the best. Gatsby's life ends with his own defeat and Daisy's rejection of him.
I think one of the overwhelming themes of this book definitely centers around ambition. I've had a hard time completely deciphering it, but I'm pretty sure its something along the lines of "everybody wants to be the best but not everyone can be the best". Gatsby has spent his whole life aspiring to be some big shot with a life to envy. From the quote above, one can tell that his ambition certainly stems from some sort of dissatisfaction with the lot that he was born into. Every action in his life, thus far, has been conducive to creating a better or more superior image for himself. He's even altered the details of his past in order to make himself seem more awe-inspiring and exceptional. All he wants to do is impress people, and he craves reassurance from others that he is succeeding in this task. Nick especially serves as a confidence boost to Gatsby who is constantly expressing doubts about his relationship with Daisy just so that Nick will tell him that he's wrong. Even Daisy herself is a representation of the things Gatsby values: wealth, beauty, materials. Gatsby isn't used to not getting what he want, not being the best, so in the end when Daisy rejects him, I think the theme I stated above comes to full fruition. All his life, Gatsby just wanted to be the best. He did everything he could possibly think of to establish a reputation for himself. But, not everyone who wants to be the best will be the best. Gatsby's life ends with his own defeat and Daisy's rejection of him.
Monday, April 23, 2012
The Great Gatsby: Foreshadowing
"'You see,' cried Catherine triumphantly. She lowered her voice again. 'It's really his wife that's keeping them apart. She's a Catholic, and they don't believe in divorce.'
Daisy was not a Catholic, and I was a little shocked at the elaborateness of the lie." pg. 34
I think this excerpt is an example of F. Scott Fitzgerald foreshadowing future quarrel between Tom and Myrtle. Obviously, he is being false about the reasons why he isn't leaving Daisy. He must not really want to leave her. But, he also doesn't want to lose Myrtle, so he tells her that he is unable to leaver his wife. I think that there will be some discrepancy about this lie eventually. Myrtle will find out. Now, to the real point of why I chose this quote, I think Tom is disgusting. All he does is lie to women and he is just awful. I don't know if he respects anyone but himself. He talks to everyone in a demeaning manner, he slaps his wife, and he doesn't even respect his mistress, this woman that he is seeking outside of his wife. It seems he is completely filled with pride and dissatisfaction with life. He should probably stop taking it out on others.
Daisy was not a Catholic, and I was a little shocked at the elaborateness of the lie." pg. 34
I think this excerpt is an example of F. Scott Fitzgerald foreshadowing future quarrel between Tom and Myrtle. Obviously, he is being false about the reasons why he isn't leaving Daisy. He must not really want to leave her. But, he also doesn't want to lose Myrtle, so he tells her that he is unable to leaver his wife. I think that there will be some discrepancy about this lie eventually. Myrtle will find out. Now, to the real point of why I chose this quote, I think Tom is disgusting. All he does is lie to women and he is just awful. I don't know if he respects anyone but himself. He talks to everyone in a demeaning manner, he slaps his wife, and he doesn't even respect his mistress, this woman that he is seeking outside of his wife. It seems he is completely filled with pride and dissatisfaction with life. He should probably stop taking it out on others.
The Great Gatsby: Personification
"He smiled understandingly--much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It face--or seemed to face--the whole external world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that tit had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey." pg. 48
I think this description of Gatsby's smile has honestly been my favorite part of the book so far. This meeting of Nick and Gatsby was enhanced by every moment prior to this one in which Gatsby was mentioned. Just as Nick was curious about the man, so too was I biting my nails at his description, anxious for his actual arrival into the story. I can't say I was disappointed when he was finally introduced. The man did seem to exude an air of wonder like many had described. But this moment in particular, where Nick addresses the effect of Gatsby's smile, I found pretty awe-inspiring. The personification of the man's smile really shows what effects it can have on you and it shows how powerful this man really is. If his mere smile can make you feel understood and appeased, there must be no limit to this man's charm. Though this personification and extended description of Gatsby's smile could seem unnecessary, I think it provides the right effect that Fitzgerald was trying to create. It succeeds in expressing the true wonder that is Jay Gatsby.
I think this description of Gatsby's smile has honestly been my favorite part of the book so far. This meeting of Nick and Gatsby was enhanced by every moment prior to this one in which Gatsby was mentioned. Just as Nick was curious about the man, so too was I biting my nails at his description, anxious for his actual arrival into the story. I can't say I was disappointed when he was finally introduced. The man did seem to exude an air of wonder like many had described. But this moment in particular, where Nick addresses the effect of Gatsby's smile, I found pretty awe-inspiring. The personification of the man's smile really shows what effects it can have on you and it shows how powerful this man really is. If his mere smile can make you feel understood and appeased, there must be no limit to this man's charm. Though this personification and extended description of Gatsby's smile could seem unnecessary, I think it provides the right effect that Fitzgerald was trying to create. It succeeds in expressing the true wonder that is Jay Gatsby.
The Great Gatsby: Stock Character/Irony
"'Mr. Carraway, this is my friend Mr. Wolfsheim.'
A small, flat-nosed Jew raised his large head and regarded me with two fine growths of hair luxuriated in either nostril. After I discovered his tiny eyes in the half-darkness." pg. 70
I found this excerpt of the book somewhat ironic. In the beginning of the book, Nick states how he is disinclined to judgment because of his upbringing; however, he quickly judges Mr. Wolfsheim and describes him like anyone would describe a typical Jew. It is possible that this form of characterization is essential to correctly inform the reader of what type of person Mr. Wolfsheim is. But, it was rather ironic that Nick addresses his description in this way so early in his meeting of the man. Did he not say that he did not have the tendency to judge people? I think that this excerpt could be revealing a hint of the author's voice as well. In the '20s, there were very common stereotypes attached to people who were of unique heritage. Jewish people were known for their dedication to their heritage and for their expansive wealth. It is made obvious in this excerpt that Wolfsheim exudes these aspects. However, I had a hard time deciding whether he really did exude them or whether Nick's perception of his comments was skewed simply because Wolfsheim was Jewish.
A small, flat-nosed Jew raised his large head and regarded me with two fine growths of hair luxuriated in either nostril. After I discovered his tiny eyes in the half-darkness." pg. 70
I found this excerpt of the book somewhat ironic. In the beginning of the book, Nick states how he is disinclined to judgment because of his upbringing; however, he quickly judges Mr. Wolfsheim and describes him like anyone would describe a typical Jew. It is possible that this form of characterization is essential to correctly inform the reader of what type of person Mr. Wolfsheim is. But, it was rather ironic that Nick addresses his description in this way so early in his meeting of the man. Did he not say that he did not have the tendency to judge people? I think that this excerpt could be revealing a hint of the author's voice as well. In the '20s, there were very common stereotypes attached to people who were of unique heritage. Jewish people were known for their dedication to their heritage and for their expansive wealth. It is made obvious in this excerpt that Wolfsheim exudes these aspects. However, I had a hard time deciding whether he really did exude them or whether Nick's perception of his comments was skewed simply because Wolfsheim was Jewish.
The Great Gatsby: Gatsby's Role Prior to Introduction
"'Really? I was down there at a party about a month ago. At a man named Gatsby's. Do you know him?'
'I live next door to him.'
'Well, they say he's a nephew or a cousin of Kaiser Wilhelm's. That's where all his money comes from.
'Really?'
She nodded.
'I'm scared of him. I'd hate to have him get anythin on me.'"
pg. 33
Prior to his actual appearance in the story, I think Gatsby still plays a very important part in the story. The mere rumors about his lavish lifestyle and mysterious personality are vital to his development as a character. The way he is portrayed to Nick by those who have met with him imspires the curiosity and awe that nick establishes for him. Whenever Nick is asked about Gatsby, or whenever someone asks him, he is often met with comments on the man's wonder and air of prestige and power. This not only affects Nick's perception of Gatsby but also the reader's perception of Gatsby. It makes the reader as curious about this man as Nick is. The way that people describe him without fully explaining what they mean creates an air of mystery about him that makes the reader want to know more about this seemingly extraordinary man. While many of the events up until the point where Gatsby is finally physically brought into the picture seem trivial, the occasional comment made about this man keeps the reader interested and wanting to move forward in the story. It provides an unknown aspect in the mostly relaxed and exposed lifestyles of these rich and showy individuals.
'I live next door to him.'
'Well, they say he's a nephew or a cousin of Kaiser Wilhelm's. That's where all his money comes from.
'Really?'
She nodded.
'I'm scared of him. I'd hate to have him get anythin on me.'"
pg. 33
Prior to his actual appearance in the story, I think Gatsby still plays a very important part in the story. The mere rumors about his lavish lifestyle and mysterious personality are vital to his development as a character. The way he is portrayed to Nick by those who have met with him imspires the curiosity and awe that nick establishes for him. Whenever Nick is asked about Gatsby, or whenever someone asks him, he is often met with comments on the man's wonder and air of prestige and power. This not only affects Nick's perception of Gatsby but also the reader's perception of Gatsby. It makes the reader as curious about this man as Nick is. The way that people describe him without fully explaining what they mean creates an air of mystery about him that makes the reader want to know more about this seemingly extraordinary man. While many of the events up until the point where Gatsby is finally physically brought into the picture seem trivial, the occasional comment made about this man keeps the reader interested and wanting to move forward in the story. It provides an unknown aspect in the mostly relaxed and exposed lifestyles of these rich and showy individuals.
The Great Gatsby: Characterization
"In consequence, I'm inclined to reserve all judgments, a habit that has opened up many curious natures to me and also made me the victim of not a few veteran bores." pg. 1
Characterization plays an extremely important role in this novel. Without it, many of the actions in the story would seems average and unexciting. However, knowing each character's background changes the effect that each action has on the overall plot. The characterization of Nick in the above quote is essential in evaluating his actions. It explains his reserved nature and lack of inclination to speak out when it would seem reasonable. For example, his complete lack of reaction to the fact that Tom has a mistress would seem bizarre because Daisy, Tom's wife, is his cousin. It might have even shifted the reader to dislike Nick. However, the above quote gives reason to his lack of action and helps the reader to better understand his logic. Had F. Scott Fitzgerald not included such in depth characterization, delving into each character's personality and ways of thinking, the end product of the Great Gatsby might not have been as successful. However, Fitzgerald's description of how each character functions helps the reader to attach him or herself to one or more of the characters and get a sense of where they're coming from.
Characterization plays an extremely important role in this novel. Without it, many of the actions in the story would seems average and unexciting. However, knowing each character's background changes the effect that each action has on the overall plot. The characterization of Nick in the above quote is essential in evaluating his actions. It explains his reserved nature and lack of inclination to speak out when it would seem reasonable. For example, his complete lack of reaction to the fact that Tom has a mistress would seem bizarre because Daisy, Tom's wife, is his cousin. It might have even shifted the reader to dislike Nick. However, the above quote gives reason to his lack of action and helps the reader to better understand his logic. Had F. Scott Fitzgerald not included such in depth characterization, delving into each character's personality and ways of thinking, the end product of the Great Gatsby might not have been as successful. However, Fitzgerald's description of how each character functions helps the reader to attach him or herself to one or more of the characters and get a sense of where they're coming from.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein: Is Victor to Blame?
" During these last days I have been occupied in examining my past conduct; nor do I find it blameable. In a fit of enthusiastic madness I created a rational creature, and was bound towards him, to assure, as far as was in my power, his happiness and well-being. This was my duty; but there was another still paramount to that. My duties towards the beings of my own species had greater claims to my attention, because they included a greater proportion of happiness or misery." pg. 161
So... Victor doesn't feel bad for what's happened? Well, I can't say I'm surprised. He has proven to be nothing but a self-pitying worm for the majority of the book. I'm still pretty annoyed though. The last thing this guy deserves is sympathy. Every terrible situation he has experienced in his life has been by his own cause. But, at the end of his life he's basically taking the easy way out and saying, "Well, there was more important stuff to do than take responsibility for my actions." Let's be honest though, if people other than Walton the idiot knew what really happened in this man's life, they probably wouldn't even give him the satisfaction of having a funeral. My guess is they would just dig the deepest hole possible and throw the body in head first to make sure he would never come back. That would probably be the safest thing to do because, honestly, Victor has been more trouble to the human race than he ever feared the creature could be. And now, he's basically confessing that through all the times he said he felt that it was his fault that his friends died, he was basically lying to make people pity him, and he really doesn't feel bad at all. It's a good thing he dies soon after this because I don't think I could have gotten through much more of this completely revolting man's stories of self-pity and refusal to admit his faults. In my opinion, he's the scum of the earth, so good riddance. And if I didn't make it obvious enough , I THINK VICTOR IS ENTIRELY TO BLAME.
So... Victor doesn't feel bad for what's happened? Well, I can't say I'm surprised. He has proven to be nothing but a self-pitying worm for the majority of the book. I'm still pretty annoyed though. The last thing this guy deserves is sympathy. Every terrible situation he has experienced in his life has been by his own cause. But, at the end of his life he's basically taking the easy way out and saying, "Well, there was more important stuff to do than take responsibility for my actions." Let's be honest though, if people other than Walton the idiot knew what really happened in this man's life, they probably wouldn't even give him the satisfaction of having a funeral. My guess is they would just dig the deepest hole possible and throw the body in head first to make sure he would never come back. That would probably be the safest thing to do because, honestly, Victor has been more trouble to the human race than he ever feared the creature could be. And now, he's basically confessing that through all the times he said he felt that it was his fault that his friends died, he was basically lying to make people pity him, and he really doesn't feel bad at all. It's a good thing he dies soon after this because I don't think I could have gotten through much more of this completely revolting man's stories of self-pity and refusal to admit his faults. In my opinion, he's the scum of the earth, so good riddance. And if I didn't make it obvious enough , I THINK VICTOR IS ENTIRELY TO BLAME.
Frankenstein: Victor's Refusal to Tell Walton the Creation Process
"I endeavoured to gain from Frankenstein the particulars of his creature's formation: but on this point he was impenetrable.
'Are you mad, my friend?' said he; 'or whither does your senseless curiosity lead you? Would you also create for yourself and the world a demoniacal enemy? Peace, peace! learn my miseries, and do not seek to increase your own.'" pg. 156
Well, it turns out Walton's an idiot too. After hearing all of Frankenstein's tale, which surprisingly has a good message about being too ambitious despite Frankenstein's idiocy, Walton still has the nerve to ask him how he created the creature... DID HE LEARN NOTHING?! The entire point behind Frankenstein's story was to guide Walton in the right direction, to make him realize the consequences of being overly ambitious. After his story about the terrible things he had to go through after he created the creature, it seemed to me that the message of his story was evident: that not setting boundaries can lead to more bad than good. The message I didn't get from his story though was, "Hey Walton, you should do exactly what I did and create a creature that will ruin your entire life because it turned out really well for me." Apparently, that's what Walton got out of it though because he still asked him how he created the monster. Victor's response to this request didn't surprise me at all because it seemed pretty similar to how I would respond to Walton if I was in that situation. However, I probably would have used some choice words and not just stopped at the mere accusation that he was "mad". Needless to say, this is one of the rare occasions in the novel where I find that Victor does not act idiotically. I think it was smart of him to not reveal the creation process of the creature. Because if Walton still wanted to know how the creature was created after Victor told his story, he obviously didn't get the message.
'Are you mad, my friend?' said he; 'or whither does your senseless curiosity lead you? Would you also create for yourself and the world a demoniacal enemy? Peace, peace! learn my miseries, and do not seek to increase your own.'" pg. 156
Well, it turns out Walton's an idiot too. After hearing all of Frankenstein's tale, which surprisingly has a good message about being too ambitious despite Frankenstein's idiocy, Walton still has the nerve to ask him how he created the creature... DID HE LEARN NOTHING?! The entire point behind Frankenstein's story was to guide Walton in the right direction, to make him realize the consequences of being overly ambitious. After his story about the terrible things he had to go through after he created the creature, it seemed to me that the message of his story was evident: that not setting boundaries can lead to more bad than good. The message I didn't get from his story though was, "Hey Walton, you should do exactly what I did and create a creature that will ruin your entire life because it turned out really well for me." Apparently, that's what Walton got out of it though because he still asked him how he created the monster. Victor's response to this request didn't surprise me at all because it seemed pretty similar to how I would respond to Walton if I was in that situation. However, I probably would have used some choice words and not just stopped at the mere accusation that he was "mad". Needless to say, this is one of the rare occasions in the novel where I find that Victor does not act idiotically. I think it was smart of him to not reveal the creation process of the creature. Because if Walton still wanted to know how the creature was created after Victor told his story, he obviously didn't get the message.
Frankenstein: Let's Try That Again Since It Worked So Well the First Time
"'Begone! I do break my promise; never will I create another like yourself, equal in deformity and wickedness.'" pg. 122
Oh, okay Victor, I get where you're going with this. You're telling the monster go run off by himself again, knowing he will probably kill even more people. That makes sense. Oh wait! NO IT DOESN'T. Victor is a complete idiot. There, I said it. How could he not only let this creature escape by himself, but encourage him?! That obviously worked so well after he created him since William and Justine are dead now! I honestly feel no sympathy for this man who keeps repeating his own mistakes. And then, when Clerval dies, he tries to act like he had no control over it. He tries to make everyone feel bad for him, and does the whole "this is all my fault" routine. I don't think I've ever encountered a character that irks me to my core more than this man. As a compassionate being, I do feel a little bit bad that he's lost his friends, but that feeling is basically completely overshadowed by loathing of his idiocy and cowardice. I honestly think it would be better for him to live in a cave then ever return to society since he has proved to be nothing but a threat to the safety and happiness of others. First he abandons the creature, then he watches Justine die an innocent girl, then he promises the creature a mate and ends up being like "JK! Yeah right! There's no way I'm making you a mate, you disgusting piece of garbage!". OH! And then, he sends the creature off by himself, who in fit of rage that totally couldn't have been expected (sarcasm) kills his best friend. Needless to say, this man is a hazard to the people who surround him. He needs to stop feeling so bad for himself because he's lonely and realize that he's saving the world a whole lot of trouble.
Oh, okay Victor, I get where you're going with this. You're telling the monster go run off by himself again, knowing he will probably kill even more people. That makes sense. Oh wait! NO IT DOESN'T. Victor is a complete idiot. There, I said it. How could he not only let this creature escape by himself, but encourage him?! That obviously worked so well after he created him since William and Justine are dead now! I honestly feel no sympathy for this man who keeps repeating his own mistakes. And then, when Clerval dies, he tries to act like he had no control over it. He tries to make everyone feel bad for him, and does the whole "this is all my fault" routine. I don't think I've ever encountered a character that irks me to my core more than this man. As a compassionate being, I do feel a little bit bad that he's lost his friends, but that feeling is basically completely overshadowed by loathing of his idiocy and cowardice. I honestly think it would be better for him to live in a cave then ever return to society since he has proved to be nothing but a threat to the safety and happiness of others. First he abandons the creature, then he watches Justine die an innocent girl, then he promises the creature a mate and ends up being like "JK! Yeah right! There's no way I'm making you a mate, you disgusting piece of garbage!". OH! And then, he sends the creature off by himself, who in fit of rage that totally couldn't have been expected (sarcasm) kills his best friend. Needless to say, this man is a hazard to the people who surround him. He needs to stop feeling so bad for himself because he's lonely and realize that he's saving the world a whole lot of trouble.
Frankenstein: Foreshadowing
"Pardon this gush of sorrow; these ineffectual words are but a slight tribute to the unexampled worth of Henry, but they soothe my heart, overflowing with the anguish which his remembrance creates." pg. 114
I originally felt bad for Victor, but soon after hearing the monster's tale, my opinion was completely changed. I had felt very bad for this creature who was so benevolent yet so misguided. However, after finishing the novel, I can say, in frustration, that I really have grown to hate both characters. Victor, I detest for his constant selfishness, but on the other hand, who could condone a creature that is constantly trying to ruin Victor's life by taking the lives of others? They both sicken me to say the least. Anyway, the foreshadowing in this excerpt certainly didn't give either of them any redeeming qualities. Before Victor even tells of how Henry dies, he alludes to his death by mentioning "his remembrance". So, the reader knows that Clerval is going to die, and from previous events, one can predict that it will be at the hands of the creature when he seeks vengeance on Victor. When reading this excerpt that revealed future events, I was firstly, extremely disgusted by Victor. He continually let this monster be the cause of death of those he loved, and he really never made any attempt to stop him. The only time he ever showed any concern was after they had been killed, when he wept like a baby. Part of me wants to scream, "WHY DON'T YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT THEN?!", and then part of me really just wants to send him soaring off the edge of a cliff so that maybe this monster who used to be so benevolent can return to his old ways. But, no. That wouldn't solve the problem either because the creature is a murderer, despite how good in nature he says he is. There is no cause that justifies a being's killing of another human. Though I still felt some sympathy for him after he killed William, knowing that he was going to kill Clerval just drew the line for me. He was obviously evil, and feeling sorry for himself didn't change that. Because of this foreshadowing, I went into the rest of the tale with my opinions about Victor and the creature already formed. It made me loathe Victor for his cowardice and the creature for his evil nature.
I originally felt bad for Victor, but soon after hearing the monster's tale, my opinion was completely changed. I had felt very bad for this creature who was so benevolent yet so misguided. However, after finishing the novel, I can say, in frustration, that I really have grown to hate both characters. Victor, I detest for his constant selfishness, but on the other hand, who could condone a creature that is constantly trying to ruin Victor's life by taking the lives of others? They both sicken me to say the least. Anyway, the foreshadowing in this excerpt certainly didn't give either of them any redeeming qualities. Before Victor even tells of how Henry dies, he alludes to his death by mentioning "his remembrance". So, the reader knows that Clerval is going to die, and from previous events, one can predict that it will be at the hands of the creature when he seeks vengeance on Victor. When reading this excerpt that revealed future events, I was firstly, extremely disgusted by Victor. He continually let this monster be the cause of death of those he loved, and he really never made any attempt to stop him. The only time he ever showed any concern was after they had been killed, when he wept like a baby. Part of me wants to scream, "WHY DON'T YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT THEN?!", and then part of me really just wants to send him soaring off the edge of a cliff so that maybe this monster who used to be so benevolent can return to his old ways. But, no. That wouldn't solve the problem either because the creature is a murderer, despite how good in nature he says he is. There is no cause that justifies a being's killing of another human. Though I still felt some sympathy for him after he killed William, knowing that he was going to kill Clerval just drew the line for me. He was obviously evil, and feeling sorry for himself didn't change that. Because of this foreshadowing, I went into the rest of the tale with my opinions about Victor and the creature already formed. It made me loathe Victor for his cowardice and the creature for his evil nature.
Frankenstein: Author's Voice
"These wonderful narrations inspired me with strange feelings. Was man, indeed, at once so powerful, so virtuous, and magnificent, yet so vicious and base? He appeared at one time a mere scion of the evil principle, and at another as all that can be conceives as noble and godlike." pg. 84
Though Mary Shelley does not obviously state that her own feelings are integrated into the story, I think she often times uses other characters to express her opinions and observations about life. This one particular incident, I believe, reflects her feelings about man and humanity. It displays her incredulity at man's ambivalent nature when it comes to choosing between good and evil. In the text prior to this excerpt, the creature recollects learning about both negative and positive aspects of history and how he was brought to tears by the whole thing. This part shows how Mary Shelley has obviously considered this idea before and found examples to support her theory of humans being ambiguous to good and evil. At last, after hearing stories of vice and bloodshed, the creature finally turns away from mankind in disgust. I feel this is also a reflection of Mary Shelley's views. By forming her opinions through the creature, she makes a point that man, though supposedly the superior being, has yet to overcome the savageness that lesser creatures possess. Even through all of the knowledge and brainpower of man, there still exists vice and bloodshed in the world. I think Mary Shelley, like the creature is somewhat disgusted with mankind for this. The way she characterizes the creature as one the reader can sympathize with also makes it evident that she does not abhor him like a normal human might, but agrees with him. She uses his strife to make a point about humankind.
Though Mary Shelley does not obviously state that her own feelings are integrated into the story, I think she often times uses other characters to express her opinions and observations about life. This one particular incident, I believe, reflects her feelings about man and humanity. It displays her incredulity at man's ambivalent nature when it comes to choosing between good and evil. In the text prior to this excerpt, the creature recollects learning about both negative and positive aspects of history and how he was brought to tears by the whole thing. This part shows how Mary Shelley has obviously considered this idea before and found examples to support her theory of humans being ambiguous to good and evil. At last, after hearing stories of vice and bloodshed, the creature finally turns away from mankind in disgust. I feel this is also a reflection of Mary Shelley's views. By forming her opinions through the creature, she makes a point that man, though supposedly the superior being, has yet to overcome the savageness that lesser creatures possess. Even through all of the knowledge and brainpower of man, there still exists vice and bloodshed in the world. I think Mary Shelley, like the creature is somewhat disgusted with mankind for this. The way she characterizes the creature as one the reader can sympathize with also makes it evident that she does not abhor him like a normal human might, but agrees with him. She uses his strife to make a point about humankind.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Frankenstein: The Creature
"I looked upon them as superior beings, who would be the arbiters of my future destiny. I formed in my imagination a thousand pictures of presenting myself to them, and their reception of me. i imagined that they would be disgusted, until, by my gentle demeanour and conciliating words, I should first win their favour, and afterwards their love." pg. 81
Though it may not always be apparent at times, I do have a heart, and listening to the creature tell his story has (dare I say it?) evoked some sort of sensitivity in me! Okay, so maybe he's killed a couple people, but I kind of see it like an innocent little puppy brutally mauling people. I mean, he really doesn't know any better, right? You can't really be mad at him. He's had no guidance in life and all of his attempts to make friends have failed terribly and he's shunned by everyone, even his own creator/father, who basically treats him as a monstrosity and is scared of him. That is just incredibly sad. Just imagining someone so alone in the world almost brings me to tears. I kind of think that people's reaction to the monster is Mary Shelley pointing out society's fear of novelty and difference. Society finds it threatening. I noticed that when the creature was talking about how he wanted to approach the cottagers, he needed to know their language and approach them gently. In other words, he needed to seem as similar to them and as nonthreatening as possible. It's pure proof that people really do judge a book by its cover. People just assumed the creature was evil because he was different, but in reality, he had begun as a benevolent creature, and he tried to do good for others. I just feel so bad that the world was responsible for transforming him into the monster he became. I think this concept can be applied to the real world. I recall one particular quote I heard on retreat that said, "I am the sum of my experiences." I think that is directly applicable here, and in society. The creature became a monster because of his world experiences. I think that most criminals follow a similar path. This quote definitely proves true.
Though it may not always be apparent at times, I do have a heart, and listening to the creature tell his story has (dare I say it?) evoked some sort of sensitivity in me! Okay, so maybe he's killed a couple people, but I kind of see it like an innocent little puppy brutally mauling people. I mean, he really doesn't know any better, right? You can't really be mad at him. He's had no guidance in life and all of his attempts to make friends have failed terribly and he's shunned by everyone, even his own creator/father, who basically treats him as a monstrosity and is scared of him. That is just incredibly sad. Just imagining someone so alone in the world almost brings me to tears. I kind of think that people's reaction to the monster is Mary Shelley pointing out society's fear of novelty and difference. Society finds it threatening. I noticed that when the creature was talking about how he wanted to approach the cottagers, he needed to know their language and approach them gently. In other words, he needed to seem as similar to them and as nonthreatening as possible. It's pure proof that people really do judge a book by its cover. People just assumed the creature was evil because he was different, but in reality, he had begun as a benevolent creature, and he tried to do good for others. I just feel so bad that the world was responsible for transforming him into the monster he became. I think this concept can be applied to the real world. I recall one particular quote I heard on retreat that said, "I am the sum of my experiences." I think that is directly applicable here, and in society. The creature became a monster because of his world experiences. I think that most criminals follow a similar path. This quote definitely proves true.
Frankenstein: Allusion
"I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel, whom thou drivest from joy for no misdeed." pg. 69
I thought Mary Shelley's allusion to the Bible story of Creation at this point in the story was extremely commendable. I can't think of a more applicable situation. Victor really was like the God of the creature. The way that God guided Adam and instructed him should have been the same for the way Victor guided the creature. He should have nurtured him and instructed him on how to live life, how to interact with his surroundings, and he should have helped him develop his mind. Instead, the creature was left to fend for himself. He had to discover right and wrong the hard way and it was really detrimental for his development. Though he began as a "benevolent" character, his experiences of loneliness and shunning by humans in his lifetime had transformed him into a harmful creature. He could not understand why his attempted goodness was only responded to with hatred by humans, so he turned into a monster instead. Had God left Adam in the Garden to fend for himself without any direction, man would still be a savage and selfish creature. The creature developed in exactly this way because of Victor's lack of care for him.
I thought Mary Shelley's allusion to the Bible story of Creation at this point in the story was extremely commendable. I can't think of a more applicable situation. Victor really was like the God of the creature. The way that God guided Adam and instructed him should have been the same for the way Victor guided the creature. He should have nurtured him and instructed him on how to live life, how to interact with his surroundings, and he should have helped him develop his mind. Instead, the creature was left to fend for himself. He had to discover right and wrong the hard way and it was really detrimental for his development. Though he began as a "benevolent" character, his experiences of loneliness and shunning by humans in his lifetime had transformed him into a harmful creature. He could not understand why his attempted goodness was only responded to with hatred by humans, so he turned into a monster instead. Had God left Adam in the Garden to fend for himself without any direction, man would still be a savage and selfish creature. The creature developed in exactly this way because of Victor's lack of care for him.
Frankenstein: Irony
"I could not sustain the horror of my situation, and when I perceived that the popular voice and the countenances of the judges had already condemned my unhappy victim, I rushed out of the court in agony." pg. 57
Maybe it was just me, but I thought it was kind of ironic how the character JUSTINE was treated UNJUSTLY, eh? I love little quirky aspects like that of a book! It makes it more fun, and sadly, I actually feel really accomplished when I recognize them. Like I'm some sort of detective who solved a murder mystery or something. Pathetic. Anyway, I kind of think Justine's name is also an example of the foreshadowing that Mary Shelley incorporates into her novel. Throughout the story, she includes little clues as to what will happen next in the plot. The readers should have seen Justine's conviction coming... or maybe not since it was ironic. But, if the reader could have guessed that her name was ironic, they could have definitely predicted her conviction! Maybe Justine's name was supposed to say more about her character than her sentencing. While the court perceived Justine as a murderer, in reality, she was just a normal girl and she didn't do anything wrong. However, she understood that there was nothing she could do about her conviction, so she just grinned and bore it (okay, maybe she didn't grin...). She didn't try to blame anyone for her sentencing, which sort of showed her being just. No matter what it symbolized, I'm still mad that Victor just let her die. He's turning into one of my least favorite people ever.
Maybe it was just me, but I thought it was kind of ironic how the character JUSTINE was treated UNJUSTLY, eh? I love little quirky aspects like that of a book! It makes it more fun, and sadly, I actually feel really accomplished when I recognize them. Like I'm some sort of detective who solved a murder mystery or something. Pathetic. Anyway, I kind of think Justine's name is also an example of the foreshadowing that Mary Shelley incorporates into her novel. Throughout the story, she includes little clues as to what will happen next in the plot. The readers should have seen Justine's conviction coming... or maybe not since it was ironic. But, if the reader could have guessed that her name was ironic, they could have definitely predicted her conviction! Maybe Justine's name was supposed to say more about her character than her sentencing. While the court perceived Justine as a murderer, in reality, she was just a normal girl and she didn't do anything wrong. However, she understood that there was nothing she could do about her conviction, so she just grinned and bore it (okay, maybe she didn't grin...). She didn't try to blame anyone for her sentencing, which sort of showed her being just. No matter what it symbolized, I'm still mad that Victor just let her die. He's turning into one of my least favorite people ever.
Frankenstein: Frame Story
"Let your compassion be moved, and do not disdain me. Listen to my tale: when you have heard that, abandon or commiserate me, as you shall judge that I deserve. But hear me." pg. 69
So... this story is like looking in a mirror with another mirror behind you. If you have never done this, just try it out, and you'll see what I mean. I'm pretty sure I've never heard of a story with more stories that are within the stories that are within the story (if you could keep up with that). As difficult as it is to understand at some times, it definitely adds something to the work. With the book having such a wide array of narrators, the reader really gets to form personal connections with many of the characters. It makes it possible to view the story from the emotional viewpoint and background of multiple characters, which can create either a less biased or more biased opinion on the plot of the story, depending on how one views it. It can also cause a lot of fluctuation in the reader's feelings that are attached to each character. While initially maybe a reader might have felt sympathy for one character, after hearing another character's perspective on that character, the reader's opinion can completely change. For example, in the beginning of the book, I felt a lot of sympathy for Victor. He seemed to have had a tough life, and now he was stuck in the middle of the arctic, emaciated and almost frozen to death. It didn't seem that someone could have been in a worse situation. But, when I read the story from the creature's perspective, my opinion completely changed, and Victor seemed deserving of less sympathy. He had created this creature and then left it to fend completely for itself with no guidance in life. To me, this seemed equivalent to leaving a baby in the wilderness (which is really just unacceptable if you didn't know that already). Had the novel not contained a part from the point of view of the creature, I probably would have never had this change of heart, but the part that was included from his point of view did just that.
So... this story is like looking in a mirror with another mirror behind you. If you have never done this, just try it out, and you'll see what I mean. I'm pretty sure I've never heard of a story with more stories that are within the stories that are within the story (if you could keep up with that). As difficult as it is to understand at some times, it definitely adds something to the work. With the book having such a wide array of narrators, the reader really gets to form personal connections with many of the characters. It makes it possible to view the story from the emotional viewpoint and background of multiple characters, which can create either a less biased or more biased opinion on the plot of the story, depending on how one views it. It can also cause a lot of fluctuation in the reader's feelings that are attached to each character. While initially maybe a reader might have felt sympathy for one character, after hearing another character's perspective on that character, the reader's opinion can completely change. For example, in the beginning of the book, I felt a lot of sympathy for Victor. He seemed to have had a tough life, and now he was stuck in the middle of the arctic, emaciated and almost frozen to death. It didn't seem that someone could have been in a worse situation. But, when I read the story from the creature's perspective, my opinion completely changed, and Victor seemed deserving of less sympathy. He had created this creature and then left it to fend completely for itself with no guidance in life. To me, this seemed equivalent to leaving a baby in the wilderness (which is really just unacceptable if you didn't know that already). Had the novel not contained a part from the point of view of the creature, I probably would have never had this change of heart, but the part that was included from his point of view did just that.
Frankenstein: Theme of Loneliness
"I said in one of my letters, my dear Margaret, that I should find no friend on the wide ocean; yet I have found a man who, before his spirit had been broken by misery, I should have been happy to have possessed as the brother of my heart." pg. 11
One evident recurring theme of Frankenstein is that of how loneliness can create relationships between total strangers. Prior to this excerpt, Walton had written to his sister of how his only struggle as he was travelling was that of pure loneliness. He had nothing in common with the sailors and could not befriend them. He seemed to have no one to share his joy with. He had been struggling with that idea for some time, thinking that he would have no one to share his triumph with if he actually did reach the North Pole. Who would even care if he told them? However, like often happens in life, Walton found a friend in the place he least expected. The stranger that they picked up while sailing happened to be just the type of man he had been looking to befriend. They shared the same interests of the heart. This particular incident is one that exemplifies the theme that loneliness creates relationships between strangers. Because Walton had been so desperate for a friend, he actually gave this man the time of day. He would sit and listen with him and take care of him, and they became quite close quite fast. Had Walton not been lonely, it would have been easy for him to dismiss this stranger and not even care to become friends with him. However, the fact that he did become friends with him shows how loneliness creates desperation for companionship. Walton sought friendship within a random stranger who most people would not have even tried to relate to.
One evident recurring theme of Frankenstein is that of how loneliness can create relationships between total strangers. Prior to this excerpt, Walton had written to his sister of how his only struggle as he was travelling was that of pure loneliness. He had nothing in common with the sailors and could not befriend them. He seemed to have no one to share his joy with. He had been struggling with that idea for some time, thinking that he would have no one to share his triumph with if he actually did reach the North Pole. Who would even care if he told them? However, like often happens in life, Walton found a friend in the place he least expected. The stranger that they picked up while sailing happened to be just the type of man he had been looking to befriend. They shared the same interests of the heart. This particular incident is one that exemplifies the theme that loneliness creates relationships between strangers. Because Walton had been so desperate for a friend, he actually gave this man the time of day. He would sit and listen with him and take care of him, and they became quite close quite fast. Had Walton not been lonely, it would have been easy for him to dismiss this stranger and not even care to become friends with him. However, the fact that he did become friends with him shows how loneliness creates desperation for companionship. Walton sought friendship within a random stranger who most people would not have even tried to relate to.
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