Essay Writing: Challenges and Conquests

I believe that essay writing is extremely important and before this class, I had almost no idea how to write a one. I have improved drastically in being able to analyze literature but I still have a lot to learn. I have learned that every author uses a very specific style to express themes and ideas that they believe important.

For me the hardest thing to do is begin my essay with a powerful hook. It's one of the most important things because it draws the reader into your essay and gives them more interest. Original titles play a similar role and unfortunately, I can never make a good one. One of my final struggles would be leaving the reader with a lasting impression in the conclusion. Luckily, Mrs. Gilman, being the amazing teacher she is, has given us until Monday so I can work on perfecting these parts of my essay.

Summer Reading List

In the summer, I usually do have a list of books that I'll read when I'm bored. The first book on this summer's list is Last of the Breed by Louis L'amour. My dad said that it was probably the best book he'd ever read so I'm going to give it a try. I started it a few years ago but never had the chance to finish it. My second book will be The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien. This is mainly because my cousin, Omed, has been bothering me non-stop to read it for the last three years. I didn't have time last summer, so this summer will be the perfect opportunity fulfill his wish.

Theme and Motif: Fate

I was born on January 23, making me an Aquarius. We are supposed to be the strong, silent type but at the same time, extremely social, talkative and sensitive. Aquarius people are honest and loyal, independent and intellectual, and original and inventive. I think some of this fits for me. I am definitely not talkative or sensitive. On the other hand, I usually do work well independently; I'm loyal, and inventive.

The main reason I don't believe in these things is because they are written to fit almost anyone. Many of the traits are too conflicting. How can you be distant and unapproachable yet warm and welcoming? Or detached from friends and social circles and in the center of social circles at the same time? So of course, people are going to fit into the category that they are supposed to. They are too broad. Romeo and Juliet rely too much on the stars. They often give false information and you shouldn't leave your life up to them.

Culture Shock

Copy and paste this video about a Romeo and Juliet episode of Andy Griffith

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ACx8vBuZek

Even though this is an old TV show, I still think that it shows the timelessness of Romeo and Juliet. There are references to the old play in many movies and shows. It has inspired many shows, like this one, to create entire episodes reenacting ideas and scenes from it. In this YouTube video, Andy is teaching the story to his son over breakfast.