Who Am I?

A white chick. That is the assumption by which others define me.
Who am I? Even when I ask myself, I do not know.

 

Upon further analyzing the piece, How it Feels to be Colored Me by Zora Neale Hurston, I reflect upon my own standing in society.

Race is defined by the color a person’s skin. Whether it is black or white, or the so called “yellow” or “brown”; we as individuals are classified under a majority. And by doing so, we become blurred faces in a coward of strangers. The “superior white man” is never expected to mix with the minorities such as the African American groups. Or so, society defined it as such before the Civil Rights Movements (unless you go to the South, then this is a different discussion entirely). And why would the intelligent Asian speak to the dim-witted White majority?
When did we allow the color of our skin to define us?

Even thoughout this majority of color, there lies separation. From the religious to cultural dividers of the Europeans, to those in Asia, we find ways to create barriers between ourselves, our own people and form hatred for something we do not even understand.

Now I shall share something personal. A part of my identity that I cannot control. When my parents got married, their parents were not pleased. My mother is Armenian and Jewish, while my father is Tatar and Muslim (both my parents are also Russian, but now is not the time to dwell into my family tree). It is expected of them to marry them same individuals, the same culture, and carry that into a new stream of generations. My father broke that tradition by marrying my mother. The issue? My grandfather never once agreed to meet my mother. He died without ever meeting the girl his son married. Now, my father’s side of the family loves us and our families get along very well, but my mother will never be accepted by them—for reasons no one understands or is truly part of.
I understand my family’s need to preserve family and culture, it is their identity and their love; but why do we take this and form hatred?

Upon speculation, I am the white girl in AP classes. I am expected to do average or to fail. To care more about my appearance than my grades. And to be quiet and polite, but never stand out.

Even at THS, people segregate themselves. The Asians form GROUPS of only Asians. It’s intimidating at times, and sometimes I feel as though I cannot speak to my own friends because of it. Most of them who I do not know, assume I am an idiot in the first place simply because I am white. Now on the other hand, those same Asian groups bond together because most of the time they are the only people they find similarities to, in terms of culture and interest. Not to mention, there are plenty of white majorities which target these Asian groups and even bully. But this goes for all groups, and all people. We do not to mean to segregate, but as humans we look for what relates to us.
And when you are like me who doesn’t fit into your own culture—you’re just an unidentifiable white person.

I do not know my own identity. When Ms. Valentino asked us to write in our comp. books “How We Identify Ourselves”, I left mine blank. I could not fathom a single statement that represented me.
All I know for certain is the person I wish to become. Since the age of 7, I knew I wanted to go to Harvard; that I would graduate with a Ph.D. and live the rest of my life striving for knowledge and one day winning a Nobel Prize in science. But lately it is as though I’ve lost a part of myself. I do know my strengths or weaknesses anymore; it’s as though the stress of junior year has numbed it all away. It is as though the 4.0 honor student, with determination and perseverance has been clouded and reduced to this confused and tired coward.
My identity is still somewhere within me. And the determination has not yet left me, and I shall not allow it to.

So my point is, your identity is not always your choice, but you know who you are. Only you know YOU. Even in times when you lose yourself, keep working for the person you are.
Sometimes you have to fall, to get back up.

What is a Great Gatsby?

Throughout the fallacious and intimidating tale of the Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald captivates his audience by revealing the harsh reality and fault-lines within the "American Dream".
For many, The Great Gatsby is a tragic love story--depicting the lost love of Gatsby and Daisy. Obliviously, this is a completely mislead perception of the novel.

For most of us, the message of the novel is lost. While we do gain the intended perspective toward alcoholism and greed, we forget the true purpose. It is as though the main topic of this week has shifted from The Great Gatsby into "Ms. Valentino why don't we read happy books?!"--now to be fair a part of me would enjoy some more optimistic novels but we gained positive aspects from our time with the transcendentalists. Regardless, this further proves the point many people fail to see the reasoning of Fitzgerald. It is not a tale depicting the ultimate failure or success of the individual, but instead the individual's weakness and strength; which either leads to their rise or demise. Fitzgerald is not telling us we are incapable of being successful and happy in life--but instead that our actions may deter us from the road toward achievement. Instead, he warns us that greed, suppressed emotions, lying, cowardly silence, and illegal activities--all bad actions, will lead to serve consequences. The inability to accept yourself, intertwines into the branches of others--forming tangled webs and broken twigs for bonds (relationships). The purpose of the American Dream is to provide opportunity for everyone; that the common man is the successor just as greatly as the man who came from wealth. And just like the Great Gatsby, it inspires the strive toward success. Fitzgerald is not telling the reader that he shall ultimately fail, whether born inherently wealthy as Tom, become wealthy as Gatsby, or live middle class as Nick; but instead that everyone is equal. No matter their social representation, all of the characters ended up unhappy and unfulfilled in their lives. By satirizing the West Egg vs. East Egg, and the charming appearance of each character, Fitzgerald reveals that happiness is not gained through materialism, but instead through the individual themselves. Everyone is capable of becoming wealthy--it is simply the road each person takes that leads them into difference directions.

The true message of the Great Gatsby is that life is not always a fairy-tale ending, and it never will end up unflawed. Fitzgerald warns his audience the dangers of greed and materialism, along with his own experiences with alcoholism and affairs. By satirizing the era through his own life experiences, Fitzgerald is revealing to the reader not to make the same mistakes he did; and instead to live life as though in a moving car--always going forward and striving for the higher road.
Enjoy the ride of life, wherever it takes you.

Then and Now

Looking back, the 1920s was a period of economic boom, social progression, and political development; which shifted from the scarring tragedies of WWI to the new age of modernism.

Daily life was fairly simple. Commonly, the standard was that men worked and the women stayed home in their domestic roles. Why you ask? Well, because men were the money makers, they were the educated, and the elite. I mean why would anyone ever assume such a role in a woman?
Thankfully, we have come far from this ignorant stigma of gender roles in our modern society; though, the role of husband and wife reflected greatly in the economy.

Many of the advertisements, such as jam, makeup, weight loss pills, etc. were all centered around the average middle class woman. In a general sense, it reveals the social standards that society pressured against women in that time period; which showed how and what they should appear to be. It was also known because of the domestic roles, that women were more likely to buy these advertised products rather than men. Men were often those seen as working, while women were left at home to wait. So it would make sense that many suffrage movements would attain themselves into advertising to liberate women and at the same time, reveal the gender stigmas of the period.

Despite these negative views, women's suffrage did become a great success. Once again, revealing the development of modernism itself throughout the era. The economic boom not only shows the positive affect of the war, but also demonstrates the "ignorance is bliss" theme. Many people purchased items not because they wanted them, but because they believed it would make them happy. As though an item would solve a person's issue. We conform ourselves into this idea of a magic pill, or a potion that will suddenly cure us of our problems. And in our transcendental society now, we realize how wrong we were.

Therefore, money does not buy happiness. But money is needed in this life and existence. In everything there is a sacrifice and paper is the victim.

The Importance of Punctuation

Throughout an ever-changing world the importance of having a standard form of punctuation is essential to formulate structure and clarity of the work; and thus exemplifying the author’s individuality.

Time is unchangeable concept, and as modern era progresses as does society; therefore the language of the society is also influenced. Yes, it is true that American literature has dramatically progressed throughout the centuries, yet the punctuation rules have remained constant. The purpose of having a fixed guideline of punctuation is not to slow down the process of evolution, which in itself is a natural process regardless, but instead to enhance the literature in an evolving world. By setting a universal standard of structure for writing the message of many authors and literature works are easily conveyed and captured to the reader. For example, if an author writes “Panda eats shoots and leaves”, then the reader understand that the author is talking about a Panda’s diet; but without proper punctuation the sentence can be easily misinterpreted as “Panda eats, shoots, and leaves”. Additionally, punctuation is used even in daily speech. Whenever a person speaks, there are unmarked punctuations taking place conveying the message of the speaker. The reason why students are taught these punctuation rules is to set a mutual known understanding of speech and intent of the author. As a writer progresses, they are able to expand further from these rules and take them into their own contexts. The mere purposes of punctuation rules are not to restrict the individual, but to organize and express themselves. Similarly to the Metric System, punctuation is a systematic form of language. Despite the varying worldly perceptions, these well-established rules create a mutual understanding of concepts; thus allowing everyone to communicate evenly. Punctuation acts the same way in which it, itself is a language. Punctuation is part of literature as well as communication and voice itself. Regardless of rules, punctuation is always there; therefore the difference lies in the sophisticated and coherent flow of purpose that the set standards provide toward the writer.

What is a Scarlett Letter?

"Imagine if, when we were born, we were marked with a symbol that would serve a predestination in our lives. And that very symbol would define our actions, intentions, and thoughts. On the surface, we are the symbol that marks us. This makes sense in a every society, since we are judged based upon what is on the surface.

Now picture this; every single one of our mistakes, instantly marked upon our chests--right for the world to see. Say you got an F on a math test, and the teacher forced you to wear that F for the entire day, maybe even week--maybe even a year.

But what if you studied for the math test, you just didn't understand how to solve the problems. Or maybe you were too busy to study. The fact is, no one knows this when they see the gigantic F stamped right across your chest. Instead the F glares back, speaking for itself--automatically silencing you without uttering a word.

The reality is, everyone fails and makes a mistake. The goal is not to assume the truth of someone is their physical representation.

You are your own reality. You know your own truth. So when did it become our right to know everyone else’s? When did we become the judge for a trial we are not even part of?

Perhaps the answer is “not within our stars, but within ourselves”.

And I'm Back!

I apologize for the lack of posts, that was due to a connection and internet error.

 

What is humanity? What is the concept of a thought?

In his speech to Kenyon College, 'This is Water' (2005), David Foster Wallace addresses the concept of the individual's role in society and within themselves. Wallace argues that naturally humanity has been degraded into a state of a "default setting", in which the human perspective is revealed as a variation of society itself. By encouraging the importance of education and self-expression, Wallace exposes the frailty and weakness of the human mind by his usage of stream of consciousness. Wallace identifies that the individual is not corrupt, but that society is the catalyst for conformity and fault through it's instigation of "this is that" and "that is this" concept. It is not the opinion of the individual, but the lesson integrated within the individual that leads into the assumptions of what is right and wrong--the social standards that convey society as a whole.

From birth we are taught that "2 + 2 = 4". And we accept that to be correct. Regardless of any scientific proof, we accept that someone out there knows exactly why that is true and move on. As though we are so limited on time that we are not able to look back. Yet, ironically it is our looking back, our research into the depths of the past which shape and influence out current state of living. Wallace uses the scenario of being in a supermarket and being stuck in traffic as though they are a huge waste of time. Yet, waste of time for what? Repeating the same cycle over again tomorrow? David reveals this concept of time being limited, while revealing the cycle of the average person.

So what is this purpose? Why does this cycle exist? Why must we conform as individuals into a community, a nation of repetition and foreseeing? It is the present which determines all else, and only by looking back may we see ahead.

Wallace expresses the greatest lesson of all, individuality and reality. Education and knowledge shape a person's perspective and opinion. And only through the knowledge gained through education, may an individual truly be free.

To Believe or Not to Believe

When reflecting upon American History, and history in general, one finds that majority of the issues and corruption involved some form of religion. From the Crusades to the Salem Witch Trials, leading to the issues in Syria today, religion has acted as a catalyst for the chaos and instability of a many societies.

But is religion really to blame? Does the belief in a God, Gods, or etc. really cause these issues?

The answer lies "not within our stars but within ourselves". The reality is, when looking back, it was not the fault of faith but instead the corruption within the religious revivalists and leaders that resulted into these tragedies. It is not the belief that is the cause, but instead the abuse and manipulation of those beliefs which results into the bigotry and intolerance we still see today.Do not blame the believer, blame the instigator. Upon investigation of these past events, all religious intolerance has also been linked to social conformation, economic gain, and political power--none of which (by general interpretation) deals with the religion itself.
Though many shall claim, such as Pope Julius II that there usage of money and power was directly for the Church benefit, these religious figures only demonstrated and advocated for intolerance--convincing the naive like sheep.

Many of these "religious leaders" take those who seek religion for personal fulfillment and hope, and manipulate them for their own needs. Even Johnathan Edwards, who claimed to spread only the word of God, terrified many and even lead to mass suicides.
As seen in the Crucible, a society embedded with the ideas of a theocracy results into illogical reasoning and hazardous consequences.

Therefore religious belief should be what most people believe it is, a personal connection. Tolerance is required for happiness. Remember your word is your own, and no matter "the word of God" or preacher, you are the guider for your own path.

The Power of Power

If you had the power to reject someone, yet just as easily take them back, would you be so selfish?

If you had the power to do anything you wanted to, without caring about the consequences, would you?

These are the questions one must ask themselves when dealing with power. 

The privileges and rights of an individual play a major role in their personality, growth, and desires. Despite any "proper" or well-established background, when presented with the opportunity for power, the temptations are far too great to resist.But why is this? Why is the abundance of power so chaotic and corrupt? What is it within ourselves that results into this self-proclaiming war?

The reality is, we are all distorted. 

Every single act of the human being, can be viewed as selfish, as political, as monstrous. 

But is it truly the individual that was corrupt, or the system before them, surrounding their every day view?

The Crucible outlines the basic 17th Century society--a town developed and dependent upon religion; a true theocracy. And yet, through the characterization of Abigail, we see the true evil of humanity. The darker, crueler, and remorseless sides we refuse to speak of. Yet, was it the true character of Abigail, or the corrupt status of the society itself?

The poor communication, economic issues, paranoia, and heavily integrated religious influence, all played the major roles in creating the mass hysteria. 

It is not the individual itself, but the power and social standards surrounding them that is the great influence--the catalyst to the chaos. 

My Own Reality

To write or not to write, that is the question.

In today's modern society we are plagued with the disheartening and often unappealing works of "literature", i.e. Twilight, Fifty Shades of Grey, etc. Almost although we are given the impression that literature has diminished in quality and value.

Throughout the early colonial period, writers wrote for the purpose of spreading/influencing religion, historical affirmation, and self-expression. Writers such as Johnathan Edwards and William Bradford; proclaimed the ideals of God, Olaudah Equiano and John Smith; wrote accounts of their travels and life-experiences to show the public a perspective, and Edward Taylor and Anne Bradstreet; demonstrated the power of self-expression and individualism. All of these writers made the important marks of history that are still believed and read to this day. Each and every one of these authors influenced their audience and affected their time periods. 

So is it far to say that today's writers are slacking? Quite frankly, yes.

Compared to the works of Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain, and Pushin---it is completely valid to say that Stephannie Meyer and L.J. Smith lack the maturity and intelligence of those authors before them. 

Despite the existence of great modern authors, the number of those are in few. 

But let yourself be the judge.

Do you believe today's literature has increased or decreased in value over the centuries? 

Your Own Perpsective

From the conformed social norms of the South, to the neglecting and judgmental assumptions toward the Native Americans; the evaluation society holds against an individual characterizes them.

Mark Twain uses Huck to demonstrate the bigoted and ignorant views of racism throughout the 20th century, while Sherman Alexie depicts the harsh reality of alcoholism and stereotypical attitudes of life on the reservation. Both authors outline the impact of society toward the individual, and in both cases, the protagonist comes to the epiphany that they are their own power.

This relates to our society because in our won realities, which can be argues as own our perspectives, we are the catalyst toward our happiness. Despite the struggles and external forces we may face, it is our reaction in the present which fuels our future. Humanity is designed to be flawed and corrupt. Now no one is born sinful or evil, we are born innocent. No one is selfish for crying when they desire food as an infant, becasue the intent of being selfish is not there. Selfishness implies harm to another person, yet there is no harm being intended upon nor inflicted when a child requires their mother. The struggles that face us in the future, may influence us deeply--even result into mistakes and evil attitudes. Yet, the fault of humanity does not determine the good of a person, it is the actions and motives of that person which determine that.

Society will always be flawed and filled with chaos. We thrive for a chaotic government--without flaw we would not require an authoritative figure. Yet, we overcome these struggles to become the person we are today. Alexie describes situations where society isolates the individual's right to innocence--though, by symbolizing his long hair and satirical sense of humor, he literally demonstrates that society does not conform the individual. That despite any factor of inconvenience we may face, we are able to overcome them.

Through we are not able to control what occurs in our lives, the fight against stereotypes, against "you can't" or "you're one of them", the assumptions of being known and by being judged, to overcome those obstacles shape our character--reveal who we are.

We determine our future. We are our future. We live in the present. Our past determines nothing, and nothing determines our future. We are the individuals, and our experiences shape us.

How much power does an individual wield?

Each individual is the guide to their own their path--basically, you are the one who lives your life. Throughout the existence of humanity, we have adapted to a system of control over a mass body of people. This is commonly known as government. From the Greeks to the Romans, New England Colonies to the United State of America, societies have formed together under a major power. Despite this overall control placed upon the average society (disregarding an anarchy), as individuals each person affects the community they inhabit. Yes, by collecting and bonding under the powers of a government each individual grants their own powers toward the government and in return the authority promises to protect the citizen. But regardless of the limitations that a governmental power places upon the individual, each individual has the power to carry out their thoughts and actions--despite any consequences. Although the consequences that an authorial government holds against individuals within society, each individual has something a higher power shall never be able to remove--their thoughts. No matter the punishment that is placed before them, the threat of disobeying, every single person has their own power to make their own chose. This theme is revealed throughout the book, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, when Twain emphasizes on the issue of slavery/racism. Throughout the book, Huck is surrounded by the ignorant "morals" of the South that whites are inferior to African Americans. Eventually, Huck realizes that Jim is also just another individual. And that both, are human--capable of emotion equally. Upon coming to this realization, Huck challenges the conformed views of the community when he declares, “All right then, I'll go to hell!” Furthermore, it is important to note that Jim is the catalyst that leads Huck into this epiphany. Jim acts as the good morals and heart of the story as he guides and helps Huck. It is because of the humanity of Jim, that Huck is able to relate individuals to the bigger idea of a society itself. This demonstrates the individual influence that a person has; thus leading into a larger mass of influence that is carried out later on. If everyone conformed to the social normalities or followed the path drawn by authority, our current community would not exist. Each and every person has their own perspective,and originality--the ability to take something and make it your own is truly personal. And the actions of those before us, influence us now. The lives of those lost in the Civil War remind us that freedom is something to defend and honor, and that we as people have the right to live freely. On a completely isolated view, the individual controls their actions, emotions, and responses. It is true, we are unable to manipulate what happens to us, but we are able to control how we respond to those situations. As individuals we hold the power to influence each other. As Doctor Who once said, "You know that in 900 years of time and space,  and I've never met anyone that wasn't important".