all the pretty horses Essays (1144 words) - The Border Trilogy

Part 1: Pages 1-96 Chapter 1 I Like westerns a lot and while I read the first chapter of All the Pretty horses It felt like I was getting pulled right into the western action that was happening in the story. To me in a classic Western novel is set on a ranch that depends on different scenarios. Some examples would be overbearing fathers, servile mothers, and father- son conflicts over the fate of who is going to run the ranch, sibling rivalries, the complication of a wealthy buyer or corrupt sheriff trying to take over. This novel abandons all of these examples. John Grady is the first main character you meet who is an only child. His father is powerless and helpless. Grady's mother owns the ranch, decides what happens to it, as well as prevents all family conflict when she casually dismisses John from running the ranch. For the first time in a western novel that I have read that is the first time I heard that a boy could not be a cowboy. John Grady is a cowboy and always will be one that looks for a story to ad d to his life, just as any character looks for a novel to be apart. McCarthy?s perspective switches 3 times just alone in chapter one from Grady's lack of control over to the fate of the ranch to finally his assumption of control over his own fate. Often, characters are revealed not in an omniscient narrator's description or a character's explanation of a decision, but in the decision itself. For instance, John?s rite of passage is found not in his precocious desire to run the ranch, rather than his decision to leave it. A Western novel to me usually relies on impending conflict such as the anticipated showdown between the lawful and the lawless, the hero's race against time to save somebody or at the very least that "something bad is going to happen" feeling that prevents either the characters or the reader from getting too comfortable while reading. No one seems to have that feeling so far except for John whose character starts to change. If Grady is unsure and uncertain about som ething he starts to question. The change can be noticed in the dialogue between initial encounters with Blevins and other characters. Part 2: pages 97-151 Chapter 2 Chapter Two begins with Rawlins journey to Mexico, leisurely and blissfully recounting the exploits on Rocha's ranch. Grady and Rawlins fit all the criteria of a sacrificial victim - outsiders to a community, presumptuous in their desires to become members of the society, free from family attachments that would revenge a crime against them, and invested with the belief that the dangerous and vacuous belief as McCarthy puts it into that members of two communities can merge harmoniously together. John Grady and Rawlin must evolve from hero to victim in chapter 2. In his innocuous first exchange with Rocha, he fails to notice how the ranch-owner, sitting like a comic-book villain amidst the shadows, blindly ascribing him a character. It is clear that Rocha has been filling in the outlines of their persona all along. And the creepy questions return to remind us that Rocha consciously believes he has the Americans figured out and maybe unconsciously their fates as well Part 1: Pages 153-217 Chapter 3 In chapter 3 the characters lose their innocence by encountering violence and bloodshed. As the most fundamental trial of their souls John and Rawlin?s characters must cling to their spirit when freedom, serenity, idealism is turned to fear, atrocity, and evil. This crisis is inevitable, But death is not. As we watch John and Rawlins crawl from terror and darkness, we see McCarthy's most valued theme illuminated which is ?the heart of a person, indeed the life of a person, is revealed not only in their search for peace and fulfillment, but also in their realization that both are fleeting and the understanding that neither are innate.? In a classic Western, the third part is usually has the climactic showdown between good and evil. Motivated by a tangible prize, this culminating battle ends with the hero displaying his wit, brawn, and tenacity and either destroying or banishing

Japanese versus American Innovation Strategies essays

Japanese versus American Innovation Strategies essays Both Japanese and American firms have capitalized upon the use of innovative forms of technology and have changed the way the world does business. This is embodied in the creation of the wildly popular Toyota Prius as well as the ubiquity of Microsoft Windows on almost every computer screen around the world. However, although examples of successful American and Japanese firms are easy to find, both countries have radically different corporate cultures. America has a business culture of entrepreneurship and individually-generated innovation, while Japanese stresses the value of having stable corporate institutions that hone talent in a collaborative fashion. Americas core innovative advantage is in deploying entrepreneurship funded through the strategic use of venture capital. Entrepreneurs profit by taking risks like Bill Gates, who made the decision to drop out of Harvard and begin a company in his garage, the company that became Microsoft. But Japanese companies, like Toyota, stress continuous improvement-creating a bureaucratic system that sets benchmarks, and then tries to improve upon those benchmarks and eliminate defects. The American dream is to start ones own business, and to be independent of a corporate clock and a boss in a grey flannel suit. The Japanese dream to get into an elite university, and to use that degree to become part of a great company for the duration of ones working life. American companies, to make things better, stress radical innovation, redefining the market, and developing new technology to create efficiency. In contrast, Japanese companies emphasize evolution, and using teams and workgroups to create innovative solutions that generate value for the company and the consumer. Rather than creating completely new technology, Japan has often radically improved upon existing technology, such as Japans improvement of the American automobile industrys manufactur...

FILM Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

FILM - Movie Review Example They derived pleasure in living amongst themselves without interacting with outsiders. Children who were curious and asked endless questions about life beyond theirs, their parent made them belief that no life existed beyond margins of the community. No one ever left the Dinka society out of curiosity to verify the truth (Deng 75). Dinka children went through informal system of education. It was the responsibility of their parents to instill communal values in them. Parents taught the children to be strong, independent members of the community. At a tender age of six to five years, they had to learn cattle grazing and other related activities like milking. Livestock herding was the main source of livelihood. In addition, the community instilled in the children moral values through singing games. Strength, courage and prowess in fighting were valuable assets. These qualities made someone a warrior. After that, they married and later become village elder. Their lives revolved around this same circle. This is the traditional system of education. Although formal education existed around them through the missionaries, they did not regard western education as useful and applicable in their lives. In fact, it is only weak children who did not take care of the cattle that got admitted to formal schools, because they w ere not resourceful to the community. Apart from the weaklings, paramount chiefs and Christianized families admitted their children to schools too. However, everything came to an abrupt halt after war broke up in1987. Most of the Dinka children became homeless after forceful and tragic separation from their families. Young boys trekked for days to refugee camps in Ethiopia (Bixler 36). At the refugee camps, the young boys were subject to hard labor like cutting wood to build their shelter. In addition, they had no cattle to look after. Education became a privilege at the camps. The other boys envied the few

Managing Expectations in Business and Personal Life Essay

Managing Expectations in Business and Personal Life - Essay Example Keeping a balance between personal and professional life is extremely difficult. Both business/professional life and personal life are filled with immense stress in the current world because of the increased commitments of people towards, their family, profession and society. Managing expectations in personal professional life are extremely difficult because of these commitments. This paper briefly explains the management of expectations in personal and professional life. At the center of every influential person and organization is the effective management of expectations (Cacace MBA, PMP, p.18). A professional always have a dual life; personal and professional. In fact a profession is required by an individual for making his/her personal life enjoyable. So it is not wise for a person to concentrate heavily on professional life by neglecting the needs of personal life. For example, most of the working women try to keep their babies in daycare centers even at a much younger stage when the infant badly in need of the mothers care and love, in order to fulfill their professional commitments. Such habits will destroy the physical and mental development of the child for who they work. In other words, they are trying to provide a better life to their children at one side while destroying their life on the other side. They must try to keep a balance between these two sides by taking as much as break from the profession when their children are badly in need of their presence, love and care. When your intentions are not in perfect alignment with expectations, and expectations are not in sync with requirements and objectives; you are putting too much faith in luck and relinquishing control to chaos (Cacace MBA, PMP, p.18). Expectations should be realistic and objective based. Expectations and requirements should have synchronization. There is no point in expecting a trip to sun as it is unrealistic. Also, it is not logical for an uneducated person to expect

How does modern technology affect socialization for worse Annotated Bibliography

How does modern technology affect socialization for worse - Annotated Bibliography Example This article is from the center for educational research and innovation looking for the impact that technology has in the society. The aim is to establish the attributes that affect the young learners based on the introduction of technology in schools. It understands that the best way of dealing with such attributes is by understanding that the policies in the educational sector require updating to keep students in the right frame of mind when dealing with schoolwork. This article is crucial in establishing whether the introduction of technology in school impacts kids negatively and how policies could assist in making the society better. The changes are examined while the emerging responses will be weighed to check on the impact this has on the society as a whole. The article approaches the aspect of technology evolution from both a positive and negative direction. The aim is to examine the main attributes that redefine the growing need for an understanding of the impact that technology has in the society. Many people assume that the innovations are all good, yet the demerits warrant some examination to shield the children from missing the benefits of socialization. The article will be a good addition to the topic of discussion because it will open up the need to examine what innovations do to the society and how the increasing need to compile this in the digital dictionaries is affecting the way children converse. It is becoming a common practice to find children using short codes such as lol for laughing out loud, and this can affect their conversations in the future or determine the new way they socialize. The author notes that the inclusion of technology in learning has been a viable and inexpensive solution to many of the developed countries. This means that more schools are adapting these mechanisms in their

Visiting Marrakesh, Morocco †The Red City

Visiting Marrakesh, Morocco – The Red City Marrakesh – The Red City As-salam alaykom! (Hello in Arabic) Marrakesh is the third largest city of Morocco and is situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. It is the most important of the four imperial cities of Morocco and has a rich history. A city of palaces, tombs, markets and myriad entertainments, Marrakesh is a treat for the senses. It is easy to get lost in its many alleys and markets, and the action packed Djemaa El-Fna square at the city center is enough to keep you occupied and intrigued for an entire day. The modern half of the city, Gueliz is a contrast and offers a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. Visiting Marrakesh is an exhilarating experience that is sure to leave a lasting imprint on all travelers, who will return impressed with its beautiful architecture and unique culture. Best Season to Visit Marrakesh Marrakesh, with its sunny weather presents itself as a year round destination. However spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are the best months to explore this city, with lower temperatures and lesser crowds. The Easter Weekend is an exception and crowds throng the city as a getaway from their hectic schedules. While early summer can still be pleasant enough, the later months (July to September) can be unbearable if you are not used to the heat. In spite of this, summer is the peak tourist season and prices for everything skyrocket during this time. Many festive events are held during summer. Winter (December to February) brings along sunny days and cold nights, and there is snowfall in the nearby Atlas Mountains. Tourists visiting around this time can take off to the ski resorts in the mountains and enjoy the snow. Highlights (Special Things to Do in Marrakesh) Visit the La Mamounia for a buffet lunch by the poolside and be floored by the splendor and glamour of this spectacular hotel. Go back in history and view artifacts from the past at the Dar Si Said Museum that includes exquisitely carved cedar wood pieces that have been rescued from the ruins and monuments in the city. Soak in the pungent and medieval experience of Marrakesh by visiting the Tannery District and watch the tanners at work as they cure the animal hides with foul-smelling liquids that transform them into finished leather products ready for sale. Head to a luxury bath at one of the many Hammams for an authentic Moroccan experience of luxury and indulgence For a belly dancing performance, head to the Comptoir Darna, the first lounge dining restaurant in Marrakesh. Beautiful ambience, great food and wonderful performances make it a perfect place to soak in the true feel of Morocco. Immerse yourself into street food at the Djemaa El-Fna and feast on the many exotic varieties of meat available at the various counters. Indulge in some souvenir shopping and visit the traditional markets known as Souks that sell everything from handicrafts to antiques, spices to ornaments, carpets, cashmere and even items made of â€Å"cactus silk†! Head out on a city break to the nearby sand dunes of Erg Chegaga or Erg Chebbi for an exotic camel ride and desert safari. Ski in the snow in the nearby ski resort of Oukaimeden, situated in the Atlas Mountains where snowfall occurs in the winter months. Attractions in Marrakesh Medina: Djeema El-Fna: Originally a place of public executions (back in AD 1050), this is the main public square of Marrakesh. Filled with snake charmers and medicine men during the day, the square really comes alive as the day ends. Musicians, story tellers and entertainers fill up the square and the open air acts begin as a visual treat. Hundreds of food stalls also line up to provide exotic, hot, mouth-watering delicacies. Koutoubia Mosque: The mosque is made of red sandstone and is the largest in the city. It is most famous for its minaret, built in Almohad style and rising to a height of 70m. The minaret was an inspiration for many later towers including the La Giralda in Seville, Spain. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside, but a walk around its periphery may be enough to marvel at this masterpiece. El Badi Palace: Largely in ruins, this impressive palace was built in the 15th century and its name translates into â€Å"The Incomparable Palace† in English. It is easy to imagine the grandeur and luxurious lifestyle of its royal inhabitants as you walk through the large pavilions, sunken gardens and abandoned pools. El Bahia Palace: Built in the late 19th century, this grand building is a great example of Eastern Architecture. Lavish decorations and beautifully landscaped gardens are reasons enough to visit this palace. Almoravid Koubba: Considered to be the oldest building in the city, it is also the only surviving monument from the Almoravid era. Bab Agnaou: It is one among the 19 gates that serve as entry and exit points to the Medina and was constructed in the 12th century. Ben Youssef Madrassa: One of the largest madrassas in North Africa, it is home to some very beautiful artwork. Saadian Tombs: The tombs were constructed to hold the graves of the Sultan Ahmed Al-Mansur who reigned in the 15th century, and his family. Lavishly built with Italian marble, cedar woodwork and intricate decorations and carvings, the tombs are sure to inspire awe among the visitors. Gueliz: Majorelle Garden: This delightful garden is worth a visit for the extensive use of the Majorelle Blue colored walls and ponds, as well as the many colorful fountains and large variety of cacti that are found within it. Spread over 12 acres, it offers a respite from the heat of the city. Menara: Menara Gardens: Situated near the outskirts of Marrakesh at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, The gardens are spread across orchards and olive groves with a pavilion and a lake in the center. The snowcapped Atlas Mountains form a great backdrop to the beautiful gardens. Shopping in Marrakesh Shopping in Marrakesh can be an assault on your senses, as you take in the colors, the atmosphere and the vibrancy of the markets. Almost all shopping in Marrakesh needs to done in the traditional markets that are called Souks and it is possible to find anything- yes, anything, in the narrow lanes of the souks that you navigate, as you move from one shop to the next. The Souk Semmarine is the main lane that runs from the Djemaa El-Fna to the Ben Youssef Mosque and is flanked by a never ending array of souks that sell a wide variety of products. If it is spices that you are interested in, visit the Rahba Kedima (Spice Square) that has stalls selling a plethora of spices from saffron to cumin, cinnamon to mace and even Argan oil that is almost exclusively produced in Morocco. A number of stalls selling herbal remedies, cosmetics, essential oils are also to be found. For shoes and footwear, look no further than the Souk Smata, where brightly colored Moroccan slippers are a must-buy. Other leather items can be found at the Souk el Kebir and Souk Cherratin that specialize in camel leather goods like belts, wallets and purses. Visit Souk el Attarin if it is fragrances and perfumes that you are looking for. Souk Zrabia is the place to be if Berber carpets interests you, and for clothing and fabrics, stroll through the Souk Larzal and Souk des Teinturiers markets. How to reach Marrakesh Marrakesh is well connected to many European cities due to its popularity with the European tourists. The Marrakesh-Menara International Airport has direct flights that connect the city with destinations like Paris, London, Stockholm and Madrid, to name a few. Those flying in from North America, Asia and elsewhere will need to change flights at Casablanca. The airport is located at a distance 5km from the city and there are air conditioned buses plying every 30 minutes between the airport and the city. Marrakesh is also connected by train service to other major cities of Morocco. There are regular trains connecting Marrakesh with Casablanca and Rabat. Night trains are also available with sleeper cars for farther off destinations like Tangiers. A number of long distance bus services are also available for those wishing to take the roadways to travel between the Moroccan cities. How to get around in Marrakesh Marrakesh has a good bus service that can get you anywhere within the city. The Medina is small enough that everything can be covered on foot, although an umbrella is necessary to protect you from the sun. Taxis and horse drawn carriages are also available to explore the city. The Bus service is quite good and covers all parts of the city that tourists will want to visit. Most buses stop at Djemaa El-Fna in the Old Town and Place Youssef Ben Tachfine in the New Town. Fares are dependent on the distance, but most of the time you will be paying between 2-5dh. Airport buses run at frequencies of 30 minutes from early morning until 9:30 in the night. An Open Topped Sightseeing Bus is available that will take you around the city with headphones to provide commentary on the various tourist locations. You can get down anywhere to explore the location at your leisure and then board another bus to continue. Tickets are valid for 24 hours and cost 145 Dh. An alternate way to get around the city is the small horse-drawn carriages called Caleche. It is better to negotiate on a price before getting onto them. The Caleche offers a romantic way to explore the city. Taxis are generally not to be preferred, since they will try to rip you off with high charges for getting you to the destination. Some may even try to charge you for the bags that you are carrying. If getting into one, always ask them to use the meter. Petit taxis are smaller taxis that accommodate 3 passengers and can be boarded on a sharing basis. If you are inside the Medina, Walking is the best way to cover all the destinations. All places are quite nearby and easily findable by directions from the locals or by using GPS. Top Areas of Marrakesh Medina: The Medina is the older, historic part of the city and is centered on the main square, Djeema El-Fna. A lot of the stay options in this district consist of the Riads, which are basically furnished Moroccan houses with a courtyard. Gueliz: This is the modern, European half of Marrakesh that is characterized by upmarket restaurants, cafes and luxury boutiques. Hivernage: Situated quite close by to the Medina, the Hivernage Quarter is a quiet, residential part of the town characterized by broad, tree-lined avenues, rooftop restaurants and luxury hotels. Palmeraie: The Palm grove Quarter is an oasis situated outside of the city. A few luxury resorts are available here. Agdal: An area of recent development, it is situated outside of the city and is being built as a major hub for further expansion of the city. A number of shopping arcades and expensive hotels are coming up in this locality. Shukran! (Thank you in Arabic)

The Effects of Wishes :: essays research papers

Throughout history people have been mislead to believe that happiness can only be found through achieving what you think you want. For example, it is rare to read a fairy tale that doesn’t involve a hero obtaining his goals and living happily ever after with the one he loves. Few authors have dared to write about the reality of life in fear that the response from audiences who are used to happy endings would be negative. Charles Dickens and James Hilton are two authors that took that chance and each produced a novel that did not necessarily have a happy ending. Charles Dickens illustrates in his book, Great Expectations, and James Hilton presents in his novel, Lost Horizon, that life is full of surprises, and happiness is not always found in the things we think we want.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The hero in each of these novels is on a quest for happiness. Pip, from Great Expectations, believes that if he were to become a gentleman he would be content with his life. On the contrary, Conway in Lost Horizon is searching for peace of mind and where he can think without disturbance. Each character’s quest brings them to the realization that there are consequences for every action, and obtaining your goals is difficult when enduring the obstacles of life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The main objective of Pip and Conway’s quests is to obtain a talisman. Dicken’s Pip is looking for materialistic items such as money, while Hilton’s Conway is looking for knowledge that can last you a lifetime. Though both characters end up achieving their own talisman, it proved to not be the only key for happiness as expected.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Throughout the quest for the each talisman, a mentor guided each of the heroes. In Great Expectations, his benefactor, Magwitch, guides Pip during his quest by providing him with money when needed. The High Lama enlightened Conway with knowledge and gave him guidance, in Lost Horizon, therefore filling the position of a mentor towards him. Both mentors fulfilled the main characters with their talismans, but it was up to the heroes to determine what was best for their life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The settings in the novels were different and therefore affected the main characters in various ways. The setting for Great Expectations was nineteenth century England where money was a major part of society. Pip felt obligated to obtain money in order to marry and live an exceptional life.