Thursday, May 20, 2010
There were some lines from Whitman's poetry that provoked thought in me, but on the whole, I found myself frustrated with the ideas expressed in it. These are some of my favorite and least favorite lines and poems.
#24
"Seeing, hearing, feeling, are miracles..." (1028)
If I appreciate any line from Whitman, it's this one. How often do we cease to appreciate the everyday miracles of life? The processes of seeing, hearing, and feeling are so precious. They allow us to appreciate life. To move from merely living to being alive, but only so long as we fully appreciate them.
#51
I don't completely understand Whitman's perspective in this poem. How can he not be curious about God? It's clear that he views God as unknowable. We talked about atheism in class, but is it possible that he had views that line up with agnosticism? He seems to acknowledge that God exists, but has no interest in knowin who He is.
I suppose, based on the view of God presented in Whitman's poetry, I can see how he would not be curious about God. If he thinks that God is everywhere, is all things, and can't be known, then I guess it wouldn't even be an option to try to know him.
In this poem, Whitman says that he is the most important thing to himself. This is a different perspective than we are called to have as Christians and different that what I've been taught my entire life. I think that's why I struggle to relate to his writing. We're coming from different places; I, as someone who believes that God is intensely personal and relational, and he, as someone who believes the opposite.
It's been interesting to read poetry from a different perspective, but the difficulty I have relating to it makes it much less enjoyable than other material we've read for this course.
#24
"Seeing, hearing, feeling, are miracles..." (1028)
If I appreciate any line from Whitman, it's this one. How often do we cease to appreciate the everyday miracles of life? The processes of seeing, hearing, and feeling are so precious. They allow us to appreciate life. To move from merely living to being alive, but only so long as we fully appreciate them.
#51
I don't completely understand Whitman's perspective in this poem. How can he not be curious about God? It's clear that he views God as unknowable. We talked about atheism in class, but is it possible that he had views that line up with agnosticism? He seems to acknowledge that God exists, but has no interest in knowin who He is.
I suppose, based on the view of God presented in Whitman's poetry, I can see how he would not be curious about God. If he thinks that God is everywhere, is all things, and can't be known, then I guess it wouldn't even be an option to try to know him.
In this poem, Whitman says that he is the most important thing to himself. This is a different perspective than we are called to have as Christians and different that what I've been taught my entire life. I think that's why I struggle to relate to his writing. We're coming from different places; I, as someone who believes that God is intensely personal and relational, and he, as someone who believes the opposite.
It's been interesting to read poetry from a different perspective, but the difficulty I have relating to it makes it much less enjoyable than other material we've read for this course.
While I had a hard time understanding some of Dickenson's highly crafted poetry, I enjoyed many of her poems. Her poetry is interesting and beautiful to read. I found the way she portrayed death (in #517) in a beautiful, almost romantic manner especially intriguing. A carriage ride was something sweethearts did together when they were courting someone they were in love with. In this poem, death is the companion on that carriage ride. I'm just amazed at how Dickenson makes something as sad and painful as death sound beautiful and peaceful and calm. It's truly a beautiful poem.
I also love the playfulness of #228. It's so interesting to read a poem like the last one and then read such a happy, almost silly, poem like this one. It brings to mind two children playing or a babysitter trying to have a fun night with her charges.
Her skills as a poet, and her ability to craft language amaze me. Her poems are exciting, interesting, and entrancing. The way she combines words and phrases and use of meter make for beautiful poetry. I've come to really love her poetry as we've studied it and discussed it in class. And for me, someone who didn't enjoy poetry at the beginning of the semester, that's a big step.
I also love the playfulness of #228. It's so interesting to read a poem like the last one and then read such a happy, almost silly, poem like this one. It brings to mind two children playing or a babysitter trying to have a fun night with her charges.
Her skills as a poet, and her ability to craft language amaze me. Her poems are exciting, interesting, and entrancing. The way she combines words and phrases and use of meter make for beautiful poetry. I've come to really love her poetry as we've studied it and discussed it in class. And for me, someone who didn't enjoy poetry at the beginning of the semester, that's a big step.
I didn’t really enjoy this book very much even though it's a classic novel. I think that maybe, by the time we read this, I had reached a point in the semester where reading anything was not at all attractive to me. Yes, that may have colored my perception of this novel.
I felt like it was overly sentimental, to the point where, for me, it detracted from the story as a whole and even made me feel emotionally disconnected at some points. However, I can see how the audience that Stowe's audience would have needed that degree of sentimentalism to evoke her desired response. Reading it now, though, is quite a difference experience and I found it hard to get into the mindset of a pre-civil war reader.
I also felt that the portrayal of characters was unrealistic. She makes good characters, like Ava and Tom, saint-like, which we talked about in class to some extent. I just didn't find their reactions and choices believable and that detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
All of that said, I think it's admirable that Stowe wrote a book about a huge injustice in society. And the response it received really is remarkable. This shows that change, even huge change that tugs at the very fabric of society, is possible if people are awakened to it and inspired to fight for it. Her novel was one part of a long journey towards a new way of thinking and a new way of life. And that is something that I can certainly appreciate, regardless of my feelings about the book itself.
I felt like it was overly sentimental, to the point where, for me, it detracted from the story as a whole and even made me feel emotionally disconnected at some points. However, I can see how the audience that Stowe's audience would have needed that degree of sentimentalism to evoke her desired response. Reading it now, though, is quite a difference experience and I found it hard to get into the mindset of a pre-civil war reader.
I also felt that the portrayal of characters was unrealistic. She makes good characters, like Ava and Tom, saint-like, which we talked about in class to some extent. I just didn't find their reactions and choices believable and that detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
All of that said, I think it's admirable that Stowe wrote a book about a huge injustice in society. And the response it received really is remarkable. This shows that change, even huge change that tugs at the very fabric of society, is possible if people are awakened to it and inspired to fight for it. Her novel was one part of a long journey towards a new way of thinking and a new way of life. And that is something that I can certainly appreciate, regardless of my feelings about the book itself.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
I've really enjoyed this book. It's been interesting and entertaining and I really do enjoy Hawthorne's writing and characters. I know that many people in our class felt it moved much too slowly, and they do have a point, but I enjoyed the pace. It gave me time to reflect on the story and to really put myself in the midst of the events described.
I also feel that this is an important book because of what it has to say about our culture and the injustices we allow as a society. That's one of the major things I see in my reading; the puritan townspeople seem to overlook their own sin and treat Hester harshly in response to hers. They ostracize Hester and Pearl when they should be caring for them and loving them. And I think we still do that today, especially with teenage mothers, although it's often not in as overt a manner as in the book. But that's not the way we should act. Especially not the way the church should act. I think this book shows that, and I suppose my response to that is a call and conviction to live differently. To not be the same as the characters in the novel.
I also feel like to book has significant thoughts about humanity and our relationship with God. Especially about how much we need God to free us from our sin. And how it eats away at us if we then refuse to forgive ourselves after receiving forgivenesss from God. I think Dimmesdale is such a powerful example of this. When I look at the life of his character in the story, I can't help but think about that. There is such freedom in living a life in relationship with God, and I think that sometimes we forget that. At least, I know I forget that sometimes. But I know, that although can be hard to forgive myself for the mistakes I make, I don't want to live in the captivity of sin the way that Dimmesdale does. I want to live in the glorious freedom of God. And I wish Dimmesdale would have found that in the story.
I don't know if these are the ideas that Hawthorne intended to communicate to readers with his story, but they are the lessions I learned through reading it. And they are why I love it.
I also feel that this is an important book because of what it has to say about our culture and the injustices we allow as a society. That's one of the major things I see in my reading; the puritan townspeople seem to overlook their own sin and treat Hester harshly in response to hers. They ostracize Hester and Pearl when they should be caring for them and loving them. And I think we still do that today, especially with teenage mothers, although it's often not in as overt a manner as in the book. But that's not the way we should act. Especially not the way the church should act. I think this book shows that, and I suppose my response to that is a call and conviction to live differently. To not be the same as the characters in the novel.
I also feel like to book has significant thoughts about humanity and our relationship with God. Especially about how much we need God to free us from our sin. And how it eats away at us if we then refuse to forgive ourselves after receiving forgivenesss from God. I think Dimmesdale is such a powerful example of this. When I look at the life of his character in the story, I can't help but think about that. There is such freedom in living a life in relationship with God, and I think that sometimes we forget that. At least, I know I forget that sometimes. But I know, that although can be hard to forgive myself for the mistakes I make, I don't want to live in the captivity of sin the way that Dimmesdale does. I want to live in the glorious freedom of God. And I wish Dimmesdale would have found that in the story.
I don't know if these are the ideas that Hawthorne intended to communicate to readers with his story, but they are the lessions I learned through reading it. And they are why I love it.
Today in class, Dr. Dyer asked us to write about what we've been thinking about regarding The Scarlet Letter. I wrote some things down, but had this nagging feeling that I was forgetting something I had recently read that connected with the events of the books. This afternoon, in the library with an iced white mocha in hand, I remembered and felt inspired to blog (something which I love doing but can't until inspiration strikes. Coffee usually helps.).
For those of you who don't know, Tenth Avenue North is my favorite band. I don't know how it works, but their songs always seem to describe exactly what I'm feeling and tell me just what I need to hear, even if I don't know it. God has used their music in my life in incredible ways.
They have a new album coming out called Light Meets the Dark and their new single from it is called Healing Begins. I was reading a post on their website yesterday where the lead singer talked about why they had chosen the title of their album. He talked about how light represents the freedom of knowing we're forgiven of our sins and dark represents the our sinful behavior. This analogy is nothing foreign in Christian circles. What he went on to say, however, was intriguing to me.
Here's the quote:
"I heard it said once that the best thing that could ever happen to any of us is if all of our sins were broadcast on the five o’clock news. And yeah, that can be a fairly disturbing thought, I suppose, but think about it for a moment. Think of how scary that is, and yet somehow, so incredibly freeing, too. If everyone knew all your junk, all your fears, all your questions, you wouldn’t have to hide anymore. No more masks. No more pretending. Just you, and hopefully, the grace that comes when we step into the light. Sure, it can be the most terrifying step you’ll ever have to take, but when we do, when we lay our souls out naked and bare for all to see, it forces us out of the shadows and into a place where life begins. It’s where the light meets the dark, and it’s where we want to be. Hope to meet you there."
--Mike Donehey
This is essentially where Hester Prynne is in TSL. And where Arthur Dimmesdale both wishes he was and is afraid to be. I'm not sure if I completely agree with this quote simply because, as we see in TSL, Hester doesn't seem to find freedom in the public knowledge of her sin. However, the example of Dimmesdale shows the imprisonment and punishment guilt bestows on those who choose to live in it, rather than find freedom in confession and forgiveness from God. So I suppose that there is a certain freedom that comes from having our worst exposed because it Dimmesdale ultimately dies due to the toll his guilt has on him, and Hester is able to build a life for herself and her daughter.
This whole idea of secrecy and exposure reminds me of what Hawthorne says at the end of the novel, "Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst may be inferred" (pg. 167).
For those of you who don't know, Tenth Avenue North is my favorite band. I don't know how it works, but their songs always seem to describe exactly what I'm feeling and tell me just what I need to hear, even if I don't know it. God has used their music in my life in incredible ways.
They have a new album coming out called Light Meets the Dark and their new single from it is called Healing Begins. I was reading a post on their website yesterday where the lead singer talked about why they had chosen the title of their album. He talked about how light represents the freedom of knowing we're forgiven of our sins and dark represents the our sinful behavior. This analogy is nothing foreign in Christian circles. What he went on to say, however, was intriguing to me.
Here's the quote:
"I heard it said once that the best thing that could ever happen to any of us is if all of our sins were broadcast on the five o’clock news. And yeah, that can be a fairly disturbing thought, I suppose, but think about it for a moment. Think of how scary that is, and yet somehow, so incredibly freeing, too. If everyone knew all your junk, all your fears, all your questions, you wouldn’t have to hide anymore. No more masks. No more pretending. Just you, and hopefully, the grace that comes when we step into the light. Sure, it can be the most terrifying step you’ll ever have to take, but when we do, when we lay our souls out naked and bare for all to see, it forces us out of the shadows and into a place where life begins. It’s where the light meets the dark, and it’s where we want to be. Hope to meet you there."
--Mike Donehey
This is essentially where Hester Prynne is in TSL. And where Arthur Dimmesdale both wishes he was and is afraid to be. I'm not sure if I completely agree with this quote simply because, as we see in TSL, Hester doesn't seem to find freedom in the public knowledge of her sin. However, the example of Dimmesdale shows the imprisonment and punishment guilt bestows on those who choose to live in it, rather than find freedom in confession and forgiveness from God. So I suppose that there is a certain freedom that comes from having our worst exposed because it Dimmesdale ultimately dies due to the toll his guilt has on him, and Hester is able to build a life for herself and her daughter.
This whole idea of secrecy and exposure reminds me of what Hawthorne says at the end of the novel, "Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst may be inferred" (pg. 167).
Oh Thoreau. You made more sense that Emerson to me. But I still didn't particularly enjoy reading your writing either. However, there were a few thing that struck me.
"The life which men praise and regard as successful is but one kind. Why should we exaggerate any one kind at the expense of the others?" (853)
This makes me think of North American consumerism. The emphasis we have on "keeping up with the Jones's." And the idea that we so often meaure success in the length of our white picket fence and the square footage of our houses, rather than in the time spent investing in the lives of others. The boxes we paint ourselves into can be rather small and cramped sometimes, I think. Because success is far more than what we tend to focus on, and I really think that we must be losing out on some amazing ideas and people because of this.
"Our inventions are wont to be pretty toys, which distract our attention from serious things." (871)
Wow, Thoreau really knew what he was talking about here! In the age of computers, television, the internet, we have so many distractions. So many pretty toys and playthings. And we use them (or at least, I know I use them) to forget, to distract, to avoid. And yet they're used for so much good too. Like text messaging donations for survivors of the disaster in Haiti. And raising awareness of crucial problems like hunger and AIDS. They create connections across borders and cultures, which shows that they can be more than just toys. More than just distractions. They can be valuable tools and agents for change. It just depends on how we use them, I guess.
"The life which men praise and regard as successful is but one kind. Why should we exaggerate any one kind at the expense of the others?" (853)
This makes me think of North American consumerism. The emphasis we have on "keeping up with the Jones's." And the idea that we so often meaure success in the length of our white picket fence and the square footage of our houses, rather than in the time spent investing in the lives of others. The boxes we paint ourselves into can be rather small and cramped sometimes, I think. Because success is far more than what we tend to focus on, and I really think that we must be losing out on some amazing ideas and people because of this.
"Our inventions are wont to be pretty toys, which distract our attention from serious things." (871)
Wow, Thoreau really knew what he was talking about here! In the age of computers, television, the internet, we have so many distractions. So many pretty toys and playthings. And we use them (or at least, I know I use them) to forget, to distract, to avoid. And yet they're used for so much good too. Like text messaging donations for survivors of the disaster in Haiti. And raising awareness of crucial problems like hunger and AIDS. They create connections across borders and cultures, which shows that they can be more than just toys. More than just distractions. They can be valuable tools and agents for change. It just depends on how we use them, I guess.
I'll admit that I struggled to make heads or tails of Emerson's Nature. I left the reading filled with thousands of questions and no answers. As we discussed it in class, things began to make more sense. What struck me the most, though, was the idea of creative perception.
I suppose I relate most to the idea of nature as beauty. I've always loved looking at whatever scenery was placed in front of me on long car rides. Well, with the possible exception of the Saskatchewan prairie. Anyone who's driven through it will know what I mean. Although I have still managed to find several beautiful places there, so I think that should tell you my feelings about creative perspective.
I grew up near the mountains and my family often traveled four hours to Banff on school breaks. They are truly breathtaking. Majestic and strong, they are my favorite vacation destination. I would love to live near them again someday. I've also been to the ocean several times, and the vastness of it always amazes me. I've never felt so small, as when I'm standing on the beach.
These sights are truly awe-inspiring, but I think there's a quiet beauty in the prairie too. In the soft hills and fields, and lush groves of trees in the grass that can be seen from the highway. I spent the summer in Kansas and did a lot of driving (most times I was actually the passenger, which gave me time to appreciate the view from the car window) and I can honestly say that I think it's beautiful. Yes, the beauty of Kansas is quite different than the mountains or the ocean. But the peaceful, unassuming nature of wheat and corn fields across the countryside is also a worthy sight in it's own right. I don't know if it's the way the land stretches on, uninterrupted, or the greenness of fields that have been watered by the rain, or the way the colors blend into vast stretches of canvas, or how the sky seems to stretch on forever. Or maybe it's the combination of all of this that I love looking at.
But whatever it is, it's beautiful just the same.
I suppose I relate most to the idea of nature as beauty. I've always loved looking at whatever scenery was placed in front of me on long car rides. Well, with the possible exception of the Saskatchewan prairie. Anyone who's driven through it will know what I mean. Although I have still managed to find several beautiful places there, so I think that should tell you my feelings about creative perspective.
I grew up near the mountains and my family often traveled four hours to Banff on school breaks. They are truly breathtaking. Majestic and strong, they are my favorite vacation destination. I would love to live near them again someday. I've also been to the ocean several times, and the vastness of it always amazes me. I've never felt so small, as when I'm standing on the beach.
These sights are truly awe-inspiring, but I think there's a quiet beauty in the prairie too. In the soft hills and fields, and lush groves of trees in the grass that can be seen from the highway. I spent the summer in Kansas and did a lot of driving (most times I was actually the passenger, which gave me time to appreciate the view from the car window) and I can honestly say that I think it's beautiful. Yes, the beauty of Kansas is quite different than the mountains or the ocean. But the peaceful, unassuming nature of wheat and corn fields across the countryside is also a worthy sight in it's own right. I don't know if it's the way the land stretches on, uninterrupted, or the greenness of fields that have been watered by the rain, or the way the colors blend into vast stretches of canvas, or how the sky seems to stretch on forever. Or maybe it's the combination of all of this that I love looking at.
But whatever it is, it's beautiful just the same.
I had never read the story of Rip Van Winkle before it was assigned in class; however, I remember hearing references to it at different times while I was growing up. While I don't know exactly what I expected from the story, I did have expectations before reading it. I suppose I thought it would be an exciting story, mainly focusing on Rip's experiences after his 20 year slumber.
Those who have read the story know that this is not the case. Although it does discuss the changes which occured during the American Revolution (the time period Rip missed while sleeping), most of the story focuses on Rip's earlier life. I didn't enjoy this piece of writing as much as I expected to, or as much as I wish I would have. While I think it provides interesting commentary on the changes in America which occured through the Revolutionary War, I wasn't particularly fond of the story and I wasn't drawn into it like I expected to be.
That said, I did enjoy the contrast between the first and second time periods in the story. I can't help but think about how strange and bizarre it would be (really, quite unbelievable) to experience what Rip does. Rip awoke to a whole new country, and with that change came cultural changes too. A new leader, new holiday, and new freedom for self-government.
How much more, though, would the world change if someone awoke today from 20 years of sleep? Our society has seen enormous change in the past 20 years. 1990. That's 20 years ago. No internet, cell phones, smart cars, or reality TV (although, If I had my choice, I'd prefer to go back to the 90's on this one). The scope of these changes (well, at least the first 2 - I don't want to give reality TV that much credit) has affected society all over the world. Can you imagine waking up to this? I can't.
It all makes me wonder, what changes will we see in the next 20 years? Will they be as great as the ones we've just experienced, or similar to the ones Rip Van Winkle sees? or will they be smaller? I don't know.
...I guess we'll all just have to wait and see.
Those who have read the story know that this is not the case. Although it does discuss the changes which occured during the American Revolution (the time period Rip missed while sleeping), most of the story focuses on Rip's earlier life. I didn't enjoy this piece of writing as much as I expected to, or as much as I wish I would have. While I think it provides interesting commentary on the changes in America which occured through the Revolutionary War, I wasn't particularly fond of the story and I wasn't drawn into it like I expected to be.
That said, I did enjoy the contrast between the first and second time periods in the story. I can't help but think about how strange and bizarre it would be (really, quite unbelievable) to experience what Rip does. Rip awoke to a whole new country, and with that change came cultural changes too. A new leader, new holiday, and new freedom for self-government.
How much more, though, would the world change if someone awoke today from 20 years of sleep? Our society has seen enormous change in the past 20 years. 1990. That's 20 years ago. No internet, cell phones, smart cars, or reality TV (although, If I had my choice, I'd prefer to go back to the 90's on this one). The scope of these changes (well, at least the first 2 - I don't want to give reality TV that much credit) has affected society all over the world. Can you imagine waking up to this? I can't.
It all makes me wonder, what changes will we see in the next 20 years? Will they be as great as the ones we've just experienced, or similar to the ones Rip Van Winkle sees? or will they be smaller? I don't know.
...I guess we'll all just have to wait and see.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
A number of ideas seemed to re-appear in many of the blogs this section. Most people chose to write about the same writers; it's interesting to me how some texts seem more relevant and resonate more with us today than others do. I'm choosing to focus on the most blogged-about authors from this section on my carnival post (along with the John and Abigail Adams because their letters were my favorite text from this section).
Jonathon Edwards
There seems to be a mix of shock, anger, and appreciation for Edward's sermon, Sinners at the Hands of an Angry God. While initial reactions seem to be mostly anger and surprise at Edward's discussion of God's wrath, it seems like many of us had changed attitudes after our in-class discussion. There seems to be a difference in the tone of the posts written before that class and the ones posted afterwords. We seemed to gain understanding of his purpose and the point of his writing beyond fire and brimstone; however, many still didn't like the emphasis placed on God's wrath at the expense (or is it the seeming expense? There was defintely some debate about thsi idea, both in class and on our blogs) of God's grace and love. The pull between the uncomfortable acknowledgement of our own sin and the warm-fuzzy feeling brought on by profession of God's love for us despite our sin are what, I think, cause this extreme reaction.
Benjamin Franklin
Franklin definitely the most blogged-about author from this section. Perhaps this is because of the role he played in creating and defining America during the Revolution. Overall, there seems to be respect and admiration for Franklin as achieving the American Dream by overcoming meager beginnings to become a greatly respected and important man. Beyond simply improving his station in life, many people discussed the way that Franklin was focused on self-improvement. He worked to become a better writer, and also worked to improve as a virtuous person. Also discussed was Franklin's belief system. Some of us appreciated his belief in Diesm, others felt that his practices of faith leave something to be desired.
The Adams Family
Nevermind this unfortunate monicker (although in the chicken and egg debate, this set of Adams did come first), the letters of this husband and wife were well-enjoyed by our class. Most appreciated was the way the letters gave us insight into a loving 18th century marriage. The record they leave, regardless of whether it should be defined as literature, provides a valueable look at life at the time of the American Revolution. The biggest impact these letters had was allowing us to see the humanity (revealed in the discussions and love of this couple) in the life of a great American president.
Equiano
I was surprised at the overwhelming response of our class to this writer because I didn't enjoy this particular writer as much as many of the other works we studied. That said, Equiano was probably the second-most written about author of this section. His inside look into slavery, albeit somewhat more civilized slavery (if there is such a thing) than many of us had previously read about, captivated readers. The differences between American/European slavery and African slavery was one of the most discussed topics, with many coming to the conclusion that African slavery preserved the humanity of slaves in a way that European slavery did not.
There was also a great deal of suspicion for this text. Between the introduction's idea that Equiano may not have been born in Africa, to the way he portrays white masters and ideas in such an positive manner, we seem to be very skeptical of this author. How were his thoughts and feeling censored so that his work would be published and would sell copies to whites (many of whom still supported slavery)?
Phillis Wheatley
Wheatley was well-appreciated by our class. Side note: I've been finding that the poetry we study is often more blogged-about than the prose. This is interesting to me as I feel that people typically find prose more enjoyable and understandable than poetry.
We appreciate that she was able to rise above her cirmstances (I'm sensing a theme in American Literature fromt this time period here, anyone else?) to become the first Black American Female Poet. Her positive attitude and faith shines through in her work and almost everyone who wrote about her mentioned this. A common theme seems to be the amount of writing she accomplished during her short life, along with admiration for the quality of her poetry. Her work is extraordinary, and still resonates with us today; we all wish that she would have lived longer and wonder what she would have been able to accomplish if she had.
Jonathon Edwards
There seems to be a mix of shock, anger, and appreciation for Edward's sermon, Sinners at the Hands of an Angry God. While initial reactions seem to be mostly anger and surprise at Edward's discussion of God's wrath, it seems like many of us had changed attitudes after our in-class discussion. There seems to be a difference in the tone of the posts written before that class and the ones posted afterwords. We seemed to gain understanding of his purpose and the point of his writing beyond fire and brimstone; however, many still didn't like the emphasis placed on God's wrath at the expense (or is it the seeming expense? There was defintely some debate about thsi idea, both in class and on our blogs) of God's grace and love. The pull between the uncomfortable acknowledgement of our own sin and the warm-fuzzy feeling brought on by profession of God's love for us despite our sin are what, I think, cause this extreme reaction.
Benjamin Franklin
Franklin definitely the most blogged-about author from this section. Perhaps this is because of the role he played in creating and defining America during the Revolution. Overall, there seems to be respect and admiration for Franklin as achieving the American Dream by overcoming meager beginnings to become a greatly respected and important man. Beyond simply improving his station in life, many people discussed the way that Franklin was focused on self-improvement. He worked to become a better writer, and also worked to improve as a virtuous person. Also discussed was Franklin's belief system. Some of us appreciated his belief in Diesm, others felt that his practices of faith leave something to be desired.
The Adams Family
Nevermind this unfortunate monicker (although in the chicken and egg debate, this set of Adams did come first), the letters of this husband and wife were well-enjoyed by our class. Most appreciated was the way the letters gave us insight into a loving 18th century marriage. The record they leave, regardless of whether it should be defined as literature, provides a valueable look at life at the time of the American Revolution. The biggest impact these letters had was allowing us to see the humanity (revealed in the discussions and love of this couple) in the life of a great American president.
Equiano
I was surprised at the overwhelming response of our class to this writer because I didn't enjoy this particular writer as much as many of the other works we studied. That said, Equiano was probably the second-most written about author of this section. His inside look into slavery, albeit somewhat more civilized slavery (if there is such a thing) than many of us had previously read about, captivated readers. The differences between American/European slavery and African slavery was one of the most discussed topics, with many coming to the conclusion that African slavery preserved the humanity of slaves in a way that European slavery did not.
There was also a great deal of suspicion for this text. Between the introduction's idea that Equiano may not have been born in Africa, to the way he portrays white masters and ideas in such an positive manner, we seem to be very skeptical of this author. How were his thoughts and feeling censored so that his work would be published and would sell copies to whites (many of whom still supported slavery)?
Phillis Wheatley
Wheatley was well-appreciated by our class. Side note: I've been finding that the poetry we study is often more blogged-about than the prose. This is interesting to me as I feel that people typically find prose more enjoyable and understandable than poetry.
We appreciate that she was able to rise above her cirmstances (I'm sensing a theme in American Literature fromt this time period here, anyone else?) to become the first Black American Female Poet. Her positive attitude and faith shines through in her work and almost everyone who wrote about her mentioned this. A common theme seems to be the amount of writing she accomplished during her short life, along with admiration for the quality of her poetry. Her work is extraordinary, and still resonates with us today; we all wish that she would have lived longer and wonder what she would have been able to accomplish if she had.
Wheatley had advantages that were beyond the dreams of most slaves. She was taught how to read and write in English and learned to read Latin. Her education and thirst for knowledge enabled her to produce beautiful, eloquent poetry.
Wheatley's peom, To the University of Cambridge, was the poem I found the most interesting. Wheatley admonishes the students at the university to appreciate their privilege and social status; they are provided with opportunities as white males that she would never be afforded. I wonder if she was jealous of their opportunities; a woman as intelligent and well-studied as her must have felt trapped by her gender and race.
Most importantly, however, she reminds the students of the grace they have received in Jesus' death and encourages them to "Let sin, that baneful evil to the soul,/By you be shunned..." and to continue to follow God. This sentiment of the love, grace, and mercy of God flows through much of Wheatley's poetry. I also appreciated the spirit of admiration for the wondrous nature of God that shows up in many of Wheatley's poems.
"Arise, my soul, on wings enraptured, rise
To praise the monarch of the earth and skies"
These are the opening lines of Thoughts on Works of Providence; which, I think, encapsulate the spirit of the poem, and Wheatley's work in general. This poem is filled with praise, admiration, and awe-struck wonder of God. This line evokes images of a bird flying through the skies. I wonder if that was how Wheatley imagined herself - flying free through the skies, praising God.
Wheatley's peom, To the University of Cambridge, was the poem I found the most interesting. Wheatley admonishes the students at the university to appreciate their privilege and social status; they are provided with opportunities as white males that she would never be afforded. I wonder if she was jealous of their opportunities; a woman as intelligent and well-studied as her must have felt trapped by her gender and race.
Most importantly, however, she reminds the students of the grace they have received in Jesus' death and encourages them to "Let sin, that baneful evil to the soul,/By you be shunned..." and to continue to follow God. This sentiment of the love, grace, and mercy of God flows through much of Wheatley's poetry. I also appreciated the spirit of admiration for the wondrous nature of God that shows up in many of Wheatley's poems.
"Arise, my soul, on wings enraptured, rise
To praise the monarch of the earth and skies"
These are the opening lines of Thoughts on Works of Providence; which, I think, encapsulate the spirit of the poem, and Wheatley's work in general. This poem is filled with praise, admiration, and awe-struck wonder of God. This line evokes images of a bird flying through the skies. I wonder if that was how Wheatley imagined herself - flying free through the skies, praising God.
The Adams's letters reveal rare insight into an 18th century marriage. The love the couple shares is evident in their letters, even when they are occupied by the exciting details of revolution. The art of letter writing is so foreign to us today with instant messaging and texting, so I found the letters especially meaningful and interesting. The record they provide to us isn't the same type of record we'll leave for future generations.
In high school, I read John Adams, a biography of America's second president which spawned the HBO miniseries. I found it very interesting and enthralling to see how John Adams shared so many confidential details with his wife, Abigail. He clearly trusted her beyond what, it seems, many of his contemporaries trusted their wives.
John Adams' evaluation of Benjamin Franklin was also a very important record; Adams clearly had great respect for this man and thought him a good leader for the new country. He gives him high praise, saying, "I wish his Colleagues from this City were All like him…" (Pg. 303). No where else in the correspondence do we see Adams talk so highly of any other man.
Abigail Adams presents great strength in the midst of the sacrifice of being separated from her husband. She manages a household and cares for their children and even hesitates to tell her husband about the family's sickness lest it concern him unduly and distract him from the important business at hand.
My one complaint (although I'm not sure if this is the right term) is the use of random capitalization within the letters. However, the other elements provided by them and the devotion shown by the writers clearly outweighs any qualms I, or other readers, may have about punctuation and grammar.
In high school, I read John Adams, a biography of America's second president which spawned the HBO miniseries. I found it very interesting and enthralling to see how John Adams shared so many confidential details with his wife, Abigail. He clearly trusted her beyond what, it seems, many of his contemporaries trusted their wives.
John Adams' evaluation of Benjamin Franklin was also a very important record; Adams clearly had great respect for this man and thought him a good leader for the new country. He gives him high praise, saying, "I wish his Colleagues from this City were All like him…" (Pg. 303). No where else in the correspondence do we see Adams talk so highly of any other man.
Abigail Adams presents great strength in the midst of the sacrifice of being separated from her husband. She manages a household and cares for their children and even hesitates to tell her husband about the family's sickness lest it concern him unduly and distract him from the important business at hand.
My one complaint (although I'm not sure if this is the right term) is the use of random capitalization within the letters. However, the other elements provided by them and the devotion shown by the writers clearly outweighs any qualms I, or other readers, may have about punctuation and grammar.
Franklin was such an important figure in American history. He played an integral role in so many of the events that shaped the country: the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris in 1781, the Constitutional Congress. This man has, arguably, played a larger role in shaping America than almost any other leader during this time period.
Reading his autobiography allowed me to gain new insight into the life of this important American figure. I found some inconsistencies in his beliefs which intrigued me. At the beginning of his Autobiography, he says that he learned that "nothing was useful which was not honest," however, later he advises that appearance of traits is more important than the reality of actually possessing them. This makes me wonder what Franklin really thought, although I am tempted to believe he supported the latter idea.
It was also interesting to me to read that Franklin made a system of checks for improving his character. It seems to me that it would be somewhat counter-productive to work on one trait at a time, but then to move on to another one shortly after he felt that he had improved in it. Wouldn’t the progress made on the first trait evaporate as he quit focusing on it and became fixated with the next trait?
My skepticism of Franklin's method for personal change may have something to do with my feelings that true change within our character comes from God; goodness is naturally produced in the lives of believers through the work of the Holy Spirit. Those living in accordance with God's will will bear fruit as evidence of that. While a checklist might help one get there, I think there's more to building true character than marking off boxes on a tally sheet.
Reading his autobiography allowed me to gain new insight into the life of this important American figure. I found some inconsistencies in his beliefs which intrigued me. At the beginning of his Autobiography, he says that he learned that "nothing was useful which was not honest," however, later he advises that appearance of traits is more important than the reality of actually possessing them. This makes me wonder what Franklin really thought, although I am tempted to believe he supported the latter idea.
It was also interesting to me to read that Franklin made a system of checks for improving his character. It seems to me that it would be somewhat counter-productive to work on one trait at a time, but then to move on to another one shortly after he felt that he had improved in it. Wouldn’t the progress made on the first trait evaporate as he quit focusing on it and became fixated with the next trait?
My skepticism of Franklin's method for personal change may have something to do with my feelings that true change within our character comes from God; goodness is naturally produced in the lives of believers through the work of the Holy Spirit. Those living in accordance with God's will will bear fruit as evidence of that. While a checklist might help one get there, I think there's more to building true character than marking off boxes on a tally sheet.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
It was interesting to read about the changes taking place in American culture and ideology during this time period. The impact of the Enlightenment was clearly felt on American soil, and impacted religious, scientific, and political hemispheres.
One of the most interesting observations made in the introduction was the idea that emigrants to America were beginning "to realize that they had more in common as inhabitants of America than they did as emigrants from…Europe" (pg. 153). It seems that people are beginning to see themselves as countrymen banded together by their current circumstances, rather than by the homes and lives they left behind in Europe. This ideology will certainly have an impact on the texts we read in this section.
The American Revolution occurs during this period; it is a significant time for writers to develop the characteristic "American" voice in literature. The writings of the period contributed to the spread of ideas and gathered support for the revolution in the American public. I think it could be argued that writing will play a greater role within American culture than ever before.
Another significant change is the role that equality is playing in literature during this time period. "the right of women to be considered equals" and the realization of the injustice of slavery impact writing as many more works during this period discuss and promote these ideas than writers did in previous times.
The ideas during this time seem to be much closer to the commonly held ideas within America today. There are still obvious differences, but it seems that American ideals are beginning to shape the country in increasing important ways.
One of the most interesting observations made in the introduction was the idea that emigrants to America were beginning "to realize that they had more in common as inhabitants of America than they did as emigrants from…Europe" (pg. 153). It seems that people are beginning to see themselves as countrymen banded together by their current circumstances, rather than by the homes and lives they left behind in Europe. This ideology will certainly have an impact on the texts we read in this section.
The American Revolution occurs during this period; it is a significant time for writers to develop the characteristic "American" voice in literature. The writings of the period contributed to the spread of ideas and gathered support for the revolution in the American public. I think it could be argued that writing will play a greater role within American culture than ever before.
Another significant change is the role that equality is playing in literature during this time period. "the right of women to be considered equals" and the realization of the injustice of slavery impact writing as many more works during this period discuss and promote these ideas than writers did in previous times.
The ideas during this time seem to be much closer to the commonly held ideas within America today. There are still obvious differences, but it seems that American ideals are beginning to shape the country in increasing important ways.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
I generally don't think of myself as much of a poet or even a poetry reader. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I enjoyed and connected with Edward Taylor's writing. Between his metaphors and fluid phrasing, he seemed to be putting such eloquent words to the emotions and realizations I've been having lately.
"I am this Crumb of Dust which is designed to make my Pen unto Thy Praise alone..."
How true is the phrase! We are such insignificant creatures in comparison to our Creator God - mere specks of dust. Yet he loves us beyond what we can even imagine! Our lives are designed to revolve not around ourselves, but around his praise and glory.
"Inspire this crumb of Dust till is display;
Thy Glory through't: and then Thy dust shall live."
I love this! This is what I wish for my life: that God's love and majesty would inspire me, that knowing Him would cause me to be a light for Him within the world. Through this, I know that my life has meaning and significance. I become more than a listless soul in a dying body. I become a truly alive child of God in an eternal body moving towards my eternal home.
"This Bread of Life dropped in my mouth doth Cry;
Eat me, Eat me, Soul, and thou shalt never die.
"I am this Crumb of Dust which is designed to make my Pen unto Thy Praise alone..."
How true is the phrase! We are such insignificant creatures in comparison to our Creator God - mere specks of dust. Yet he loves us beyond what we can even imagine! Our lives are designed to revolve not around ourselves, but around his praise and glory.
"Inspire this crumb of Dust till is display;
Thy Glory through't: and then Thy dust shall live."
I love this! This is what I wish for my life: that God's love and majesty would inspire me, that knowing Him would cause me to be a light for Him within the world. Through this, I know that my life has meaning and significance. I become more than a listless soul in a dying body. I become a truly alive child of God in an eternal body moving towards my eternal home.
"This Bread of Life dropped in my mouth doth Cry;
Eat me, Eat me, Soul, and thou shalt never die.
"I had often said that if the Indians should come, I should rather be killed by them than taken alive, but when it came to the trial my mind changed..."
Confession: I'm a planner. I think through my decisions before making them to be sure that I've examined every possible angle. If I have the time to prepare for something, I will.
But there are some things in life that we simply can't plan for; unexpected illness, car accidents. We are caught off guard and unaware by the unexpected. However, even with the problems and decisions we can expect, there is still a chance that within the moment of our decision, we realize that we were wrong. And change our mind. This, I believe, is what occurred when Mary Rowlandson's settlement was attacked by Native Americans[1].
"It is not my tongue, or my pen, can express the sorrows of my heart, and bitterness of my spirit that I had at this departure; but God was with me in a wonderful manner, carrying me along, and bearing up my spirit, that it did not quite fail."
There are so many times in life, it seems, when we feel like we can hardly bear our hardships. For Mary Rowlandson, this was certainly one of those times. But I think we are often surprised by what we can endure. Although it is not what we can endure; rather, it is what God can endure. So we really should not be surprised by this if we understand who God is and choose to serve him. However, we (myself included) always seem to fall short in this.
While I'm impressed by Rowlandson's choice to praise God through and in spite of her circumstances, I don't feel that it is as noteworthy as others do. I suppose this is because my life has had circumstances where praising God is difficult (more so than most other college students, I would expect), and also partly because I think that this is what God calls us to do: Praise Him.
He doesn't say, "Praise me if your life is wonderful," or "Praise me when you get that job/promotion/boyfriend/girlfriend/etc." No, He simply tells us to praise him. Without any qualifiers, to praise him. That means he deserves praise in every circumstance, situation, and trial. Because of who He is.
So I suppose that Rowlandson deserves acknowledgment in this. And maybe I don't mean that her faith and trust in God isn't remarkable, but that it's simply an example of what all of us should do when we face difficult circumstances. She shows readers that God should be praised in all circumstances, and hopefully gives them an encouragement toward this kind of faith.
[1]Note: This is my is my term for people of this ethnic group; Rowlandson refers to them as bloody heathen[s], ravenous beasts, savages, and finally (the most politically correct term she uses in a slew of very derogatory names) Indians.
Confession: I'm a planner. I think through my decisions before making them to be sure that I've examined every possible angle. If I have the time to prepare for something, I will.
But there are some things in life that we simply can't plan for; unexpected illness, car accidents. We are caught off guard and unaware by the unexpected. However, even with the problems and decisions we can expect, there is still a chance that within the moment of our decision, we realize that we were wrong. And change our mind. This, I believe, is what occurred when Mary Rowlandson's settlement was attacked by Native Americans[1].
"It is not my tongue, or my pen, can express the sorrows of my heart, and bitterness of my spirit that I had at this departure; but God was with me in a wonderful manner, carrying me along, and bearing up my spirit, that it did not quite fail."
There are so many times in life, it seems, when we feel like we can hardly bear our hardships. For Mary Rowlandson, this was certainly one of those times. But I think we are often surprised by what we can endure. Although it is not what we can endure; rather, it is what God can endure. So we really should not be surprised by this if we understand who God is and choose to serve him. However, we (myself included) always seem to fall short in this.
While I'm impressed by Rowlandson's choice to praise God through and in spite of her circumstances, I don't feel that it is as noteworthy as others do. I suppose this is because my life has had circumstances where praising God is difficult (more so than most other college students, I would expect), and also partly because I think that this is what God calls us to do: Praise Him.
He doesn't say, "Praise me if your life is wonderful," or "Praise me when you get that job/promotion/boyfriend/girlfriend/etc." No, He simply tells us to praise him. Without any qualifiers, to praise him. That means he deserves praise in every circumstance, situation, and trial. Because of who He is.
So I suppose that Rowlandson deserves acknowledgment in this. And maybe I don't mean that her faith and trust in God isn't remarkable, but that it's simply an example of what all of us should do when we face difficult circumstances. She shows readers that God should be praised in all circumstances, and hopefully gives them an encouragement toward this kind of faith.
[1]Note: This is my is my term for people of this ethnic group; Rowlandson refers to them as bloody heathen[s], ravenous beasts, savages, and finally (the most politically correct term she uses in a slew of very derogatory names) Indians.
"She sets no bounds to her affection, no hath any thought of her reward. She finds recompense enough in the exercise of her love towards it."
This is one of my favorite lines from John Winthrop's sermon A Model of Christian Charity. This is such a great description of what should truly be rewarding about loving others. This isn't usually the case, however. At least not for me. While I believe it is important to show love towards others, and do try my hardest to do so in every circumstance, it becomes much more difficult to act lovingly towards people who don't show love and kindness in return.
Love is "absolutely necessary to being the body of Christ."
This is probably the statement that I feel is most important and most convicting. As a Christian, love isn't an option. It's mandatory. Jesus tells his followers that the greatest commandment is to love God and the second greatest is to love others. Love God. Love others. That's what it all boils down to. Winthrop is definitely onto something with this statement. Without love, we cease to function as a body. If we neglect to care for each other during struggles, we end up sacrificing the unity of the body of Christ. That's one of the amazing things about being a part of God's family; not only do we have intimate fellowship with God, but we also have fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
That's what Winthrop is encouraging the Puritans to remember; that they must be able to depend on each other and help each other out when one of their friends needs assistance. They must work together to make both a living and a life in the new world. That they can accomplish more together than the can separately. And that in order to do that, they must love. God and each other.
This is one of my favorite lines from John Winthrop's sermon A Model of Christian Charity. This is such a great description of what should truly be rewarding about loving others. This isn't usually the case, however. At least not for me. While I believe it is important to show love towards others, and do try my hardest to do so in every circumstance, it becomes much more difficult to act lovingly towards people who don't show love and kindness in return.
Love is "absolutely necessary to being the body of Christ."
This is probably the statement that I feel is most important and most convicting. As a Christian, love isn't an option. It's mandatory. Jesus tells his followers that the greatest commandment is to love God and the second greatest is to love others. Love God. Love others. That's what it all boils down to. Winthrop is definitely onto something with this statement. Without love, we cease to function as a body. If we neglect to care for each other during struggles, we end up sacrificing the unity of the body of Christ. That's one of the amazing things about being a part of God's family; not only do we have intimate fellowship with God, but we also have fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
That's what Winthrop is encouraging the Puritans to remember; that they must be able to depend on each other and help each other out when one of their friends needs assistance. They must work together to make both a living and a life in the new world. That they can accomplish more together than the can separately. And that in order to do that, they must love. God and each other.
If you were a child in North America during the 1990's there was no escaping exposure to Disney's version of Pocahontas. The movie features John Smith as a hero with strength, smarts, and long blond hair. The female characters in the movie fawn over America's very first heart-throb.
Through reading Smith's own work, I've discovered that this depiction was far from true. While Smith did accomplish a great number of things in his lifetime, the stories about his heroics may not be as reliable as my 8 year-old self was led to believe.
Smith fought for the dutch in the Netherlands during their war of independence against King Philip II and also fought for the Austrian army during their war against the Turks (he was taken prisoner but later escaped) before his journey to America. He is known for occasionally using unnecessary force, having a hard-to-control temper, and being stubbornly self-reliant (pg. 44). What we know about Smith is mostly from his accounts and stories; this has allowed him to craft the version of himself that he would like his readers to know and believe. However, many of his anecdotes are not very believable; including his story about defending himself from 200 Native Americans using his Native American Guide as a shield. And yes, there are also many doubts about the reality of the famed Pocahontas story.
The idea that struck me the most about Smith, however, is not the disenchantment of my childhood idea of this early explorer, but a comment made in the introduction to his writing. Smith offered to be a guide to the Pilgrims for their 1620 voyage, but was passed over for a man named Myles Standish. After this, "Smith's America was not the geographical region about which he had entertained such bright hopes at the country's start, but rather the verbal realm he continued to explore in his later writings" (Pg. 44).
To think that a man who spent a such a short time (relatively) in America has had such an impact on American culture and psyche surprises me. This man, who is hailed as having a great contribution to America's history, probably didn't even consider himself an American. His version of America wasn't based on the realities he saw during his daily life, but was taken from memories and reflections upon his brief experience on the other side of the ocean. And yet it is Smith's America which is remembered, dreamed of, and reflected upon.
Through reading Smith's own work, I've discovered that this depiction was far from true. While Smith did accomplish a great number of things in his lifetime, the stories about his heroics may not be as reliable as my 8 year-old self was led to believe.
Smith fought for the dutch in the Netherlands during their war of independence against King Philip II and also fought for the Austrian army during their war against the Turks (he was taken prisoner but later escaped) before his journey to America. He is known for occasionally using unnecessary force, having a hard-to-control temper, and being stubbornly self-reliant (pg. 44). What we know about Smith is mostly from his accounts and stories; this has allowed him to craft the version of himself that he would like his readers to know and believe. However, many of his anecdotes are not very believable; including his story about defending himself from 200 Native Americans using his Native American Guide as a shield. And yes, there are also many doubts about the reality of the famed Pocahontas story.
The idea that struck me the most about Smith, however, is not the disenchantment of my childhood idea of this early explorer, but a comment made in the introduction to his writing. Smith offered to be a guide to the Pilgrims for their 1620 voyage, but was passed over for a man named Myles Standish. After this, "Smith's America was not the geographical region about which he had entertained such bright hopes at the country's start, but rather the verbal realm he continued to explore in his later writings" (Pg. 44).
To think that a man who spent a such a short time (relatively) in America has had such an impact on American culture and psyche surprises me. This man, who is hailed as having a great contribution to America's history, probably didn't even consider himself an American. His version of America wasn't based on the realities he saw during his daily life, but was taken from memories and reflections upon his brief experience on the other side of the ocean. And yet it is Smith's America which is remembered, dreamed of, and reflected upon.
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