This class was very interesting to me because I had no idea what to expect. I had no clue what might be done for writing assignments, having never been in one of these classes before. Anyway, I did not like how there was writing every day, but I understand that this is how online classes are able to work. It was a very in-depth and detailed approach to grading and understanding the material. I did enjoy the majority of the assignments. I particularly enjoyed the Storytelling and Storybook assignments.
This class helped open doors in terms of experimenting with my writing and what I am capable of. My entire Storybook was in poem, which was new for me, and I had never worked on retelling other stories before, so the creative muscles in my brain were able to exercise a bit. Plus, the essay portion helped keep things formal (even though my essays were not very formal at all), and it was a nice array of different writing options each week. I think this was vital in making the class enjoyable.
The writing assignments for this class did leave a good impression on the class as a whole for me. I think it was great getting to write for a class, because I enjoy writing almost as much as I enjoy reading. Plus, the relaxed feel of the class helped make things easy. I think this class is very beneficial for any aspiring writer, or just for anyone who likes a good narrative.
Wednesday 19 November 2014
Week 15: Reading Post
Honestly, this class was much better than I was expecting. Not that I expected it to be bad or anything, but I had never taken an online class before and it was much easier going than I had thought it would be at first. I did think some of the readings were a little long, but that may just be because I had such a busy schedule that the readings seemed to take forever or there wasn't enough time to successfully get through without scrambling. I did enjoy them, regardless of the length, and I would recommend them to anyone.
The one idea that stood out to me, in terms of improvement, is the thought of doing an anthology option where stories are compiled because of their thematic similarities. I think this would add a fun element to the class, and might be particularly helpful in regards to Storybook ideas and things of that nature. Plus, it would be enjoyable to find various stories from different areas and think of how they might relate in that way. This would make the class a bit easier to follow, if you ask me.
I would like to address future students of this class with one piece of advice: do your best to get ahead! Because if you just do the work as it is due, you will be feeling so much pressure and like the entire class is one big, extra pile of crap you have to do instead of something really fun and enjoyable like it is intended to be. I definitely enjoyed the class overall, but there were moments when it became the biggest hassle I had on my plate during the semester. Get ahead. Then relax as it gets closer to the end of the semester.
The one idea that stood out to me, in terms of improvement, is the thought of doing an anthology option where stories are compiled because of their thematic similarities. I think this would add a fun element to the class, and might be particularly helpful in regards to Storybook ideas and things of that nature. Plus, it would be enjoyable to find various stories from different areas and think of how they might relate in that way. This would make the class a bit easier to follow, if you ask me.
I would like to address future students of this class with one piece of advice: do your best to get ahead! Because if you just do the work as it is due, you will be feeling so much pressure and like the entire class is one big, extra pile of crap you have to do instead of something really fun and enjoyable like it is intended to be. I definitely enjoyed the class overall, but there were moments when it became the biggest hassle I had on my plate during the semester. Get ahead. Then relax as it gets closer to the end of the semester.
Friday 14 November 2014
Week 14 Essay: It's the End of the World (As We Know It)
This is the last essay I have to write for this class. The end of the semester, just about. What should I write about? I already spent a lot of time on the reading units, I feel like I have dived a bit too deeply into my personal life and writing history, and I have doted greatly on my favorite authors and works. In fact, I think I'm a little burned out on all of that. I have a friend of mine who is an author, and he has a book out that actually (sort of) pertains to the class. It's called The Revenge of Remus, and it takes the mythology of the beginnings of Rome (with Romulus and Remus, obviously, from the title) as well as every teenage girl's love for werewolves (just kidding, the book is actually dedicated to everyone who hates Twilight), and turns it into a adventurous horror story.
I realize I am shamelessly advertising for a friend of mine in this essay, but I really think it is important to support a local anything, and writers, in general. It's a shame that books are a dying form of entertainment and what books are still coming out are appealing to a market that puts books on an electronic device. I don't necessarily expect anyone to jump up and say, "I want a copy of your friend's book!", but I do hope every single person in this class looks to local artists, musicians, writers, and whatever else for a lot of their entertainment. I think that the reason it is difficult for writers and the like to make a decent living these days is because they don't get our financial and verbal support, and it's a real shame.
Anyway, I hope everyone enjoys the remainder of their semester and has a great winter break. If any of you are actually interested, my friend's name is Micah Black, and I would be more than happy to give you a copy of his book, just on the promise that you will read it and the fact that you would have to meet with me somewhere on campus.
I realize I am shamelessly advertising for a friend of mine in this essay, but I really think it is important to support a local anything, and writers, in general. It's a shame that books are a dying form of entertainment and what books are still coming out are appealing to a market that puts books on an electronic device. I don't necessarily expect anyone to jump up and say, "I want a copy of your friend's book!", but I do hope every single person in this class looks to local artists, musicians, writers, and whatever else for a lot of their entertainment. I think that the reason it is difficult for writers and the like to make a decent living these days is because they don't get our financial and verbal support, and it's a real shame.
Anyway, I hope everyone enjoys the remainder of their semester and has a great winter break. If any of you are actually interested, my friend's name is Micah Black, and I would be more than happy to give you a copy of his book, just on the promise that you will read it and the fact that you would have to meet with me somewhere on campus.
Week 14 Storytelling: Ignorance is Becoming
John had a dream. It wasn't an extravagant dream by any means. He just wanted to be a fighter - a respectable fighter. He trained constantly, but he never felt like he was improving. Maybe it was because at the end of each day he would go pick up some Five Guys, pop open a Dr. Pepper, and sit on his couch and watch The Walking Dead. He drank water while he trained, he ate right while he trained, and he disciplined himself...while he trained. When he got home, however, all bets were off. What did he care, though? He was happy like this. Or lonely. He honestly couldn't tell the difference in some instances.
He had a big fight coming up and he really did need to start getting himself prepared in more than just the ring, but he didn't like the thought of it. He went into practice one day and stepped right up to the punching bag. He could hit alright, and he had an adequate speed to his rhythm, but he definitely did not pack the punch he needed nor did he have the stamina to keep up with his nearing opponent. He let his frustrations out on the bag, but was soon too tired to do much of anything for awhile. He went to the nearest bench and sat. His trainer walked over.
"What'ta ya doin' ova hea, John?"
"Oh, hey, Mick. I dunno. I'm just tired."
"Ya tiahed 'cuz ya weak! Ya need ta get out dere 'n get ta woik!" Mick stormed off.
John didn't like to talk to Mick. He was rather condescending. If John could just show his skill in the ring to Mick, then Mick would apologize for how rude he was to John...but that would mean that John would have to work and try really hard, and that didn't sound very enjoyable. He brushed it off and went home, though he didn't have any particular reason to do so. It was the same story as every other night. He recalled something a shady-looking man had said to him on his walk home: "A lotta peoples are countin' on you." He had handed John a little bottle and syringe.
John woke up the next afternoon and got ready for his fight. He trained a little bit but didn't want to get too tired. He thumbed around in his pocket for a minute and found the steroids the creepy guy gave him. He thought he might as well - a lot was riding on this fight, after all. As he walked into the arena, he felt his legs move slower and drag like lead was holding them down. His arms were becoming difficult to hold up. Everything hurt and spun. John fell to the floor, spazzing.
Author's Note
I took my story from The Emperor's New Clothes. Obviously, my take on the story is much different, but I think basic theme conveyed still stays intact. The idea that arrogance and ignorance make a bad combination is universal.
He had a big fight coming up and he really did need to start getting himself prepared in more than just the ring, but he didn't like the thought of it. He went into practice one day and stepped right up to the punching bag. He could hit alright, and he had an adequate speed to his rhythm, but he definitely did not pack the punch he needed nor did he have the stamina to keep up with his nearing opponent. He let his frustrations out on the bag, but was soon too tired to do much of anything for awhile. He went to the nearest bench and sat. His trainer walked over.
"What'ta ya doin' ova hea, John?"
"Oh, hey, Mick. I dunno. I'm just tired."
"Ya tiahed 'cuz ya weak! Ya need ta get out dere 'n get ta woik!" Mick stormed off.
John didn't like to talk to Mick. He was rather condescending. If John could just show his skill in the ring to Mick, then Mick would apologize for how rude he was to John...but that would mean that John would have to work and try really hard, and that didn't sound very enjoyable. He brushed it off and went home, though he didn't have any particular reason to do so. It was the same story as every other night. He recalled something a shady-looking man had said to him on his walk home: "A lotta peoples are countin' on you." He had handed John a little bottle and syringe.
John woke up the next afternoon and got ready for his fight. He trained a little bit but didn't want to get too tired. He thumbed around in his pocket for a minute and found the steroids the creepy guy gave him. He thought he might as well - a lot was riding on this fight, after all. As he walked into the arena, he felt his legs move slower and drag like lead was holding them down. His arms were becoming difficult to hold up. Everything hurt and spun. John fell to the floor, spazzing.
Author's Note
I took my story from The Emperor's New Clothes. Obviously, my take on the story is much different, but I think basic theme conveyed still stays intact. The idea that arrogance and ignorance make a bad combination is universal.
Wednesday 12 November 2014
Week 14 Reading Diary: Hans Christian Andersen
I'll be honest, I know little to nothing in regards to Hans Christian Andersen. I have never actually read any of his works. The limited knowledge I do have is from watching Disney's adaptation of The Little Mermaid. Rather sad, isn't it? Well, regardless of where I receive my knowledge, it has definitely sparked an interest in reading this unit, so I say we should begin.
I've actually read the Princess and the Pea before, and it has always been an interesting story, maybe, but a really boring one as well. I have never liked that story for whatever reason. In fact, I've also read The Emperor's New Suit before, and that is a story that I really do enjoy. I think it is so funny when he ends up naked. A great lesson learned, as it were. The Brave Tin Soldier is also familiar, but barely. I do not know much about this story, nor do I particularly care for it as I read it. The other two stories in this half are also foreign to me, but they are kind of enjoyable to read.
Now, onto the Little Mermaid. It is quite different from the Disney film I grew up watching. How so? Well, first and foremost, there is no Jamaican singing crab, which is incredibly unfortunate. However, a lot more of the story stayed in tact, which was rather surprising. The greatest change I can think of is the ending. It ends quite a bit more cheerfully in the Disney version. Obviously, I can understand why they did that to the story. I mean, what will appeal more to kids - true love, or suicide?
All in all, a very good unit. It was a nice last week of reading and a good way to go out. We'll see what I do for my story retelling, but for the time being, it is nice to look over the unit as a whole and enjoy what I have read. I might have to go back and read through some of the stories again, just because I have the time and opportunity to.
I've actually read the Princess and the Pea before, and it has always been an interesting story, maybe, but a really boring one as well. I have never liked that story for whatever reason. In fact, I've also read The Emperor's New Suit before, and that is a story that I really do enjoy. I think it is so funny when he ends up naked. A great lesson learned, as it were. The Brave Tin Soldier is also familiar, but barely. I do not know much about this story, nor do I particularly care for it as I read it. The other two stories in this half are also foreign to me, but they are kind of enjoyable to read.
Now, onto the Little Mermaid. It is quite different from the Disney film I grew up watching. How so? Well, first and foremost, there is no Jamaican singing crab, which is incredibly unfortunate. However, a lot more of the story stayed in tact, which was rather surprising. The greatest change I can think of is the ending. It ends quite a bit more cheerfully in the Disney version. Obviously, I can understand why they did that to the story. I mean, what will appeal more to kids - true love, or suicide?
All in all, a very good unit. It was a nice last week of reading and a good way to go out. We'll see what I do for my story retelling, but for the time being, it is nice to look over the unit as a whole and enjoy what I have read. I might have to go back and read through some of the stories again, just because I have the time and opportunity to.
Week 13: When I Became a Writer...
One of the first books I recall really enjoying was Captain Underpants. Does anyone remember that? Those books were the literary equivalent of a Dickens novel. Anyway, these books were a hilarious and enjoyable read, but the highlight of them were the comic books within the actual story. The two main kids, George and Harold, would create comic books based around a superhero they made up, named Captain Underpants. They would write out these comic books, make copies using the school copier, and sell them to their fellow students.
Well, in my youth, I loved comic books. I loved to read, write and draw...so I started coming up with my own comic books. It would all be about weird-looking superheroes that consisted of my friends and I. I would do these epic stories of adventure, mystery and guns - must be a southern thing, but everyone had guns. I didn't sell them like the kids did in Captain Underpants, but I enjoyed making them and reading them. Strangely, this desire to construct comic books, and the practice thereof, stayed with me well into high school.
Of course, before high school, I enjoyed writing stories and things of that nature, but it really hit me in high school. In the most socially-awkward time in my life, I found great solace in the works of the Douglas Adams and Mark Twain, as I have previously stated. I also kept up the writing (and every now and again, the cartooning) and enjoy every minute of it. While I want to make it in the film world and write screenplays and direct films and such, I would also love to write novels and just continue my fiction writing any way I can.
Well, in my youth, I loved comic books. I loved to read, write and draw...so I started coming up with my own comic books. It would all be about weird-looking superheroes that consisted of my friends and I. I would do these epic stories of adventure, mystery and guns - must be a southern thing, but everyone had guns. I didn't sell them like the kids did in Captain Underpants, but I enjoyed making them and reading them. Strangely, this desire to construct comic books, and the practice thereof, stayed with me well into high school.
Of course, before high school, I enjoyed writing stories and things of that nature, but it really hit me in high school. In the most socially-awkward time in my life, I found great solace in the works of the Douglas Adams and Mark Twain, as I have previously stated. I also kept up the writing (and every now and again, the cartooning) and enjoy every minute of it. While I want to make it in the film world and write screenplays and direct films and such, I would also love to write novels and just continue my fiction writing any way I can.
Week 13 Storytelling: Death of Me
"Richard! Richard!! Where are you?"
I could hear them calling my name. It was faint and muffled, like the sound of the world above when you are under water. What had happened? I don't recall. It was dark and stuffy, and gradually warmer as I walked on, exploring the darkness. Who knows the vastness of where I had found myself. I could not see my hand in front of my face, and it was a sickening darkness. You know that feeling? Where the darkness hurts? That's what was going on. That's where I was...wherever that was.
"Where the Hell am I?"
"Exactly."
A voice from behind and it sent shivers down my spine, an icy chill despite the heat. I turned around and there was a man, standing tall and consumed by blue flame, though he did not cry out in pain. He extended his hand, and with much hesitation, I took it. He led me through the darkness, and even though his blue flame illuminated his aura, I still could not see anything around us. However, as we walked on, his flame grew brighter and the faint sounds of screaming grew louder.
"Where are we? What is this place?"
I would have stopped right then and there, if I had any willpower of my own. However, I kept walking with this demon, or angel, or chauffeur, or whatever he was. The surroundings became brighter with each step until we were in a room burning in eternal flame. It did not burn, but it definitely messed with my mind. In the center of everything was a man who wore sunglasses and a pin-striped suit. There was a briefcase at his side and, to be completely honest, he looked very much like a lawyer. He looked up at me as we walked in and stared into my soul. It felt so cold.
His grin was unsettling. "You already said it. You're in Hell."
I woke up.
Author's Note
I read Dante's Inferno for the week. I was not able to find just one little aspect of the story that I could work with, so I decided to do a sum of the entire poem. I also thought it would be funny if Satan was a lawyer. I don't know why. It just makes me laugh.
I could hear them calling my name. It was faint and muffled, like the sound of the world above when you are under water. What had happened? I don't recall. It was dark and stuffy, and gradually warmer as I walked on, exploring the darkness. Who knows the vastness of where I had found myself. I could not see my hand in front of my face, and it was a sickening darkness. You know that feeling? Where the darkness hurts? That's what was going on. That's where I was...wherever that was.
"Where the Hell am I?"
"Exactly."
A voice from behind and it sent shivers down my spine, an icy chill despite the heat. I turned around and there was a man, standing tall and consumed by blue flame, though he did not cry out in pain. He extended his hand, and with much hesitation, I took it. He led me through the darkness, and even though his blue flame illuminated his aura, I still could not see anything around us. However, as we walked on, his flame grew brighter and the faint sounds of screaming grew louder.
"Where are we? What is this place?"
I would have stopped right then and there, if I had any willpower of my own. However, I kept walking with this demon, or angel, or chauffeur, or whatever he was. The surroundings became brighter with each step until we were in a room burning in eternal flame. It did not burn, but it definitely messed with my mind. In the center of everything was a man who wore sunglasses and a pin-striped suit. There was a briefcase at his side and, to be completely honest, he looked very much like a lawyer. He looked up at me as we walked in and stared into my soul. It felt so cold.
His grin was unsettling. "You already said it. You're in Hell."
I woke up.
Author's Note
I read Dante's Inferno for the week. I was not able to find just one little aspect of the story that I could work with, so I decided to do a sum of the entire poem. I also thought it would be funny if Satan was a lawyer. I don't know why. It just makes me laugh.
Monday 10 November 2014
Week 13 Reading Diary: Dante's Inferno
Oh, yeah! The Divine Comedy is one of the best stories ever conceived! I love Dante's work. The Inferno is one of the best writings that I've ever read. I absolutely love the idea of learning what Hell is when it is such a mysterious and vaguely-explained concept in the Bible and in mythology. Dante's writing just makes it that much better. His explanation for all of these unexplainable things that the majority of people (especially there in Roman Catholic Italy) believed is just sheer creativity and fantastic writing.
My personal favorite bit is the section revolved around Limbo. Now, this is a theory that I do not share, theologically, but it is an intriguing concept and definitely warrants reading and maybe some more time and attention than some other sections. I particularly love how it explains what happened to the characters in the Bible before Christ was around to bring salvation. As a kid growing up, that was always one of my biggest questions regarding Christianity. In the story, he goes into Limbo and frees all people who deserved to go to Heaven that lived before Jesus.
Getting into the second half brings out some of the best parts. I absolutely love the mix of Greek and Roman myth and Christian theology. I think the collaboration is really great and works out so well in Dante's work. Now, don't get me wrong, I prefer to keep them separated (like The Offspring would want), but it's a new twist, you know? Something fresh (despite its age).
My absolute favorite part of the story is the description of Satan. Weird, right? I just think it is so cool to try and describe something that has been a descriptive mystery for thousands of years. Plus, I oddly love how Satan is trapped in ice caused by the deepness of his circle and the wind produced by his wings. I also really love how his existence is punishment for Judas, Cassius and Brutus - those who have betrayed those they were meant to protect and love. Great stuff.
My personal favorite bit is the section revolved around Limbo. Now, this is a theory that I do not share, theologically, but it is an intriguing concept and definitely warrants reading and maybe some more time and attention than some other sections. I particularly love how it explains what happened to the characters in the Bible before Christ was around to bring salvation. As a kid growing up, that was always one of my biggest questions regarding Christianity. In the story, he goes into Limbo and frees all people who deserved to go to Heaven that lived before Jesus.
Getting into the second half brings out some of the best parts. I absolutely love the mix of Greek and Roman myth and Christian theology. I think the collaboration is really great and works out so well in Dante's work. Now, don't get me wrong, I prefer to keep them separated (like The Offspring would want), but it's a new twist, you know? Something fresh (despite its age).
My absolute favorite part of the story is the description of Satan. Weird, right? I just think it is so cool to try and describe something that has been a descriptive mystery for thousands of years. Plus, I oddly love how Satan is trapped in ice caused by the deepness of his circle and the wind produced by his wings. I also really love how his existence is punishment for Judas, Cassius and Brutus - those who have betrayed those they were meant to protect and love. Great stuff.
Thursday 6 November 2014
Week 12 Essay: I Think, Therefore, I Write
I'm an introverted guy. I know most of you will read this and think, "Woah! No way! You're loud and obnoxious on your blog and my Comment Wall! You have to be the life of the party!", but the sad truth is that I'm not. I'm a relatively quiet and reserved individual. However, since my writing career started in the 4th grade, I have had an outlet - an infinitely large palette on which to paint the thoughts streaming from the mind of a decidely conservative individual. There are many reasons as to why I am this way, but psychoanalyzing myself is what the essay of my therapist is about - not this one. So, back to 4th grade:
I loved 4th grade. It was a very exciting time for me. You know why? The early stages of puberty, mostly, but also because I had an English teacher - and she was the one of the greatest things to happen to me. Her, and puberty, I guess. Moving on, she had us construct a portfolio, similar to what some students are doing in this class. We had to write five stories over the course of the whole year, and at the end, we should our favorites. Well, being the ever adventurous boy I was, I decided to do a serial over a character by the name of General Morgandorf (Don't Ask, Don't Tell). Of course, at the time, I could not tell the difference between serial and cereal (nor the difference between celery and salary), so it was just a fun collection of stories about the same character that always ended on cliffhangers.
Now, in high school, I had the second best thing in my life to happen to me (For those of you keeping track at home, this is technically third, if you're counting puberty as first or second). I had another English teacher, and she had us do a similar assignment. She had us pick three author's over the course of the semester, read some of their works, and then try to emulate their style in a creative writing assignment. So, being at this stage in my life, I chose three of my favorite author's at got right to work. I did an assignment over J.R.R. Tolkien, where I so attempted to mutate my dialect into more of an Oxfordian professor who could speak emaculately to the point where no one could possibly conceive that the heavy use of run-on sentences were escaping from the page, just under their noses, like that of a mysterious thief attempting to make off with the crown jewel of some long, forgotten kingdom of yore. I did one over Douglas Adams, which was conceptually a bit harder since I was dealing with a decidely more sarcastic form of British writing and which would have been a very entertaining read if it weren't for the irrefuttable fact that my story was so inexplicably boring. I also did an assignment over William Goldman (this was before I had read The Princess Bride, but after I had seen the movie).
The two above paragraphs can be summed up as this: I had some teachers who taught me that writing could be fun, and I enjoyed it. I enjoyed it so much that I understood the power of the written word, the ability to do so much with translating a thought into something visual and readable. I would love to write professionally, but the fear of a lack of steady income is a bit too much to push my writing outside of the realm of a hobby. With that in mind, I will wrap this essay up. I don't believe there is anything to do in terms of an Author's Note, so...good-bye.
I loved 4th grade. It was a very exciting time for me. You know why? The early stages of puberty, mostly, but also because I had an English teacher - and she was the one of the greatest things to happen to me. Her, and puberty, I guess. Moving on, she had us construct a portfolio, similar to what some students are doing in this class. We had to write five stories over the course of the whole year, and at the end, we should our favorites. Well, being the ever adventurous boy I was, I decided to do a serial over a character by the name of General Morgandorf (Don't Ask, Don't Tell). Of course, at the time, I could not tell the difference between serial and cereal (nor the difference between celery and salary), so it was just a fun collection of stories about the same character that always ended on cliffhangers.
Now, in high school, I had the second best thing in my life to happen to me (For those of you keeping track at home, this is technically third, if you're counting puberty as first or second). I had another English teacher, and she had us do a similar assignment. She had us pick three author's over the course of the semester, read some of their works, and then try to emulate their style in a creative writing assignment. So, being at this stage in my life, I chose three of my favorite author's at got right to work. I did an assignment over J.R.R. Tolkien, where I so attempted to mutate my dialect into more of an Oxfordian professor who could speak emaculately to the point where no one could possibly conceive that the heavy use of run-on sentences were escaping from the page, just under their noses, like that of a mysterious thief attempting to make off with the crown jewel of some long, forgotten kingdom of yore. I did one over Douglas Adams, which was conceptually a bit harder since I was dealing with a decidely more sarcastic form of British writing and which would have been a very entertaining read if it weren't for the irrefuttable fact that my story was so inexplicably boring. I also did an assignment over William Goldman (this was before I had read The Princess Bride, but after I had seen the movie).
The two above paragraphs can be summed up as this: I had some teachers who taught me that writing could be fun, and I enjoyed it. I enjoyed it so much that I understood the power of the written word, the ability to do so much with translating a thought into something visual and readable. I would love to write professionally, but the fear of a lack of steady income is a bit too much to push my writing outside of the realm of a hobby. With that in mind, I will wrap this essay up. I don't believe there is anything to do in terms of an Author's Note, so...good-bye.
Wednesday 5 November 2014
Week 12 Storytelling: Three Hungry Little Pigs
A wolf was walking around his neighborhood one day, admiring some of the architecture that his neighbors had raised up in order to live in, when he noticed a new house - a brick house - with a pig laid up inside.
"How wonderful!" said the wolf. "A new neighbor! Well, I should go say 'hello'!"
So the wolf trudged up to the house, paw extended for a handshake, and saw the pig a bit more as he got closer. The pig was a big, burly hog, with 5 'o clock shadow at 3pm, a hardhat, and overalls with no shirt underneath which clearly revealed a tattoo of a heart with the word "Mom" in the middle of it. He seemed to be adding something to the side of his house.
"Hello, sir!" called the wolf. The pig looked up at him and stared. "How are you?"
The pig let out a snort and went back to his work.
The wolf was undeterred. "New around here?" The pig stared and snorted again. "Listen...I just wanted to let you know that we've got some fine turnip fields around here, if you wanted me to show you where they are."
The pig finally spoke up. "Alright, wolf. I'll go with you. Come back in an hour and I'll be done with this. Then we can go."
The wolf smiled, finally reaching a friend. "Okay, sir! I'll be back in an hour!"
As the wolf walked off, the pig watched him leave and then snuck away from his job, running off towards the turnip fields. After the hour was up, he already had more turnips than he would ever need and was back to his work on the house. The wolf walked up.
"Are you ready to go?" he asked.
The pig looked sympathetic. "Uh...actually, Mr. Wolf, I already went over there. I had to get back to work."
The wolf looked disappointed. "Well, that's okay. If you have any free time later, I can show you this great apple orchard! You'll never need to visit the grocery store again!"
The pig smiled. "Well, give me another hour and we can go!"
The wolf beamed. "Great! I'll be back in an hour!"
The pig watched the wolf run off and waited until he was out of sight, to run to the apple orchard and gather up several bushels of apples. He grabbed as many as he possibly could and then ran home before the wolf got there. The wolf came exactly one hour after leaving, and the pig was right back to work, the apples clearly visible.
"Y - you went already?" the wolf almost burst into tears.
The pig gave a sigh. "Yes, Mr. Wolf. I have so much work to do that I needed to get it done. I'll tell you what, though. I want to make it up to you, so how about you give me two hours, and then come over. I'll cook dinner for us."
The wolf looked happy all over again. "Okay! I'll be back in two hours!" The wolf ran off gleefully.
The pig began to get a pot boiling over a fire and set up plenty of apples and turnips for a stew. He worked tirelessly getting things ready until the wolf was knocking on the door, two hours later. The door was locked, but the pig called for him to come in. The wolf tried turning the knob. Nothing. The pig walked up to the door and called out, "You really have to push to get it open!" The wolf tried harder. The pig told him to try running at it, and as the wolf backed up, the pig unlocked the door. As the wolf came running, the door opened and the wolf ran right into the pot of stew. The pig quickly closed the lid, sealing the wolf in.
That evening, the pig had a lovely wolf stew, and leaned back in his recliner picking his teeth. "I hope I get to stay here awhile. My neighbors are delicious!"
Author's Note
This was initially taken from The Three Little Pigs. In the original tale, most everything in my story happens. The wolf is eaten by the pig. I thought this to be so strange, I had to retell it. I decided to make the pig a psychopath and the wolf a nice guy. Why? Because that's more fun.
"How wonderful!" said the wolf. "A new neighbor! Well, I should go say 'hello'!"
So the wolf trudged up to the house, paw extended for a handshake, and saw the pig a bit more as he got closer. The pig was a big, burly hog, with 5 'o clock shadow at 3pm, a hardhat, and overalls with no shirt underneath which clearly revealed a tattoo of a heart with the word "Mom" in the middle of it. He seemed to be adding something to the side of his house.
"Hello, sir!" called the wolf. The pig looked up at him and stared. "How are you?"
The pig let out a snort and went back to his work.
The wolf was undeterred. "New around here?" The pig stared and snorted again. "Listen...I just wanted to let you know that we've got some fine turnip fields around here, if you wanted me to show you where they are."
The pig finally spoke up. "Alright, wolf. I'll go with you. Come back in an hour and I'll be done with this. Then we can go."
The wolf smiled, finally reaching a friend. "Okay, sir! I'll be back in an hour!"
As the wolf walked off, the pig watched him leave and then snuck away from his job, running off towards the turnip fields. After the hour was up, he already had more turnips than he would ever need and was back to his work on the house. The wolf walked up.
"Are you ready to go?" he asked.
The pig looked sympathetic. "Uh...actually, Mr. Wolf, I already went over there. I had to get back to work."
The wolf looked disappointed. "Well, that's okay. If you have any free time later, I can show you this great apple orchard! You'll never need to visit the grocery store again!"
The pig smiled. "Well, give me another hour and we can go!"
The wolf beamed. "Great! I'll be back in an hour!"
The pig watched the wolf run off and waited until he was out of sight, to run to the apple orchard and gather up several bushels of apples. He grabbed as many as he possibly could and then ran home before the wolf got there. The wolf came exactly one hour after leaving, and the pig was right back to work, the apples clearly visible.
"Y - you went already?" the wolf almost burst into tears.
The pig gave a sigh. "Yes, Mr. Wolf. I have so much work to do that I needed to get it done. I'll tell you what, though. I want to make it up to you, so how about you give me two hours, and then come over. I'll cook dinner for us."
The wolf looked happy all over again. "Okay! I'll be back in two hours!" The wolf ran off gleefully.
The pig began to get a pot boiling over a fire and set up plenty of apples and turnips for a stew. He worked tirelessly getting things ready until the wolf was knocking on the door, two hours later. The door was locked, but the pig called for him to come in. The wolf tried turning the knob. Nothing. The pig walked up to the door and called out, "You really have to push to get it open!" The wolf tried harder. The pig told him to try running at it, and as the wolf backed up, the pig unlocked the door. As the wolf came running, the door opened and the wolf ran right into the pot of stew. The pig quickly closed the lid, sealing the wolf in.
That evening, the pig had a lovely wolf stew, and leaned back in his recliner picking his teeth. "I hope I get to stay here awhile. My neighbors are delicious!"
Author's Note
This was initially taken from The Three Little Pigs. In the original tale, most everything in my story happens. The wolf is eaten by the pig. I thought this to be so strange, I had to retell it. I decided to make the pig a psychopath and the wolf a nice guy. Why? Because that's more fun.
Tuesday 4 November 2014
Week 12 Reading Diary: English Fairy Tales
Welp, I chose this unit because the description had a bunch of stories that I recognized. I thought, "Okay, this will be an easy unit. I can kinda take a load off for a few days and focus on some of my other classes!" Nope. In truth, I only knew one story completely as it was told here. You know what story that was? The Three Little Pigs. I felt like such a kid. I mean, don't get me wrong - that has always been a great story - but what good does that do me now?
Now, as far as these stories go, they are all really good. Mouse and Mouser was a particularly enjoyable tale, but I really can't calculate any special reason why. I just liked it. Then again, I can probably say that for most of these stories. The Master and His Pupil was also an enjoyable story, though I feel as though I've read something similar before. I don't really know why.
For the second half, I was excited to read Mr. Fox, because I assumed it was Roald Dahl's The Fantastic Mr. Fox. These stories are not the same. If Dahl received inspiration for his story from here, that would make sense, but it is definitely its own fairy tale. It was a great read and everything, but I still felt a little disappointed when it wasn't quite the same story.
The rest of these stories are honestly hit-and-miss with me. I enjoyed The Laidly Worm of Spendleston Heugh and Johnny-Cake. However, there were a few that I just did not like. Like the very last story - Fairy Ointment? If that story isn't enough to turn you away, the actual story will take care of it for you. Anyway, all in all, it was a good unit, but not one of the best. However, this is just one man's opinion, and anyone else who might read this should actually take it into consideration.
Now, as far as these stories go, they are all really good. Mouse and Mouser was a particularly enjoyable tale, but I really can't calculate any special reason why. I just liked it. Then again, I can probably say that for most of these stories. The Master and His Pupil was also an enjoyable story, though I feel as though I've read something similar before. I don't really know why.
For the second half, I was excited to read Mr. Fox, because I assumed it was Roald Dahl's The Fantastic Mr. Fox. These stories are not the same. If Dahl received inspiration for his story from here, that would make sense, but it is definitely its own fairy tale. It was a great read and everything, but I still felt a little disappointed when it wasn't quite the same story.
The rest of these stories are honestly hit-and-miss with me. I enjoyed The Laidly Worm of Spendleston Heugh and Johnny-Cake. However, there were a few that I just did not like. Like the very last story - Fairy Ointment? If that story isn't enough to turn you away, the actual story will take care of it for you. Anyway, all in all, it was a good unit, but not one of the best. However, this is just one man's opinion, and anyone else who might read this should actually take it into consideration.
Thursday 30 October 2014
Week 11 Essay: A Hollywood Hero
What I have found super interesting in this unit is that the Robin Hood I read about was different from the Robin Hood I expected to read about. Robin Hood has always been a vigilante hero, someone who has robbed from the rich to give to the poor. You know, King Richard's BFF. Anyway, the Robin Hood I read about in these ballads was kind of...well, forgive my unprofessionalism, but he was a douchebag. Of course, the story I always come back to, he killed some guys just because they called him a kid and said he wasn't good with a bow and arrow. A littl much, wouldn't you say?
Now, what I want to know is how he changed from this jerk of a guy into the Errol Flynn, Batman-esque figure with much praise attached to his name. I read some stories of Robin Hood when I was younger that were supposedly originally told or written back in the 1400s and 1500s, and Robin Hood was a classic, slightly-swashbuckling savior to poor and oppressed individuals everywhere. The change seems to have occurred when British tyranny was an issue and these English folk were actually being oppressed like the characters in the stories.
So, it seems the nature of Robin Hood has changed (and continues to do so) over time and the course of society. He becomes whatever people need him to be. This, of course, can apply to every hero or legend, but it seems interesting that this marks the first folktale that I have experienced this over the course of the entire semester. It is something to think about that there are heroes out there who can be whoever us ordinary folk need them to be whenever we need them.
Author's Note
Of course, I read the Robin Hood Ballads, this week, and this is the thought that has stuck with me the entire week. I hope it made sense, and I'm not the only one who feels this way about it.
Now, what I want to know is how he changed from this jerk of a guy into the Errol Flynn, Batman-esque figure with much praise attached to his name. I read some stories of Robin Hood when I was younger that were supposedly originally told or written back in the 1400s and 1500s, and Robin Hood was a classic, slightly-swashbuckling savior to poor and oppressed individuals everywhere. The change seems to have occurred when British tyranny was an issue and these English folk were actually being oppressed like the characters in the stories.
So, it seems the nature of Robin Hood has changed (and continues to do so) over time and the course of society. He becomes whatever people need him to be. This, of course, can apply to every hero or legend, but it seems interesting that this marks the first folktale that I have experienced this over the course of the entire semester. It is something to think about that there are heroes out there who can be whoever us ordinary folk need them to be whenever we need them.
Author's Note
Of course, I read the Robin Hood Ballads, this week, and this is the thought that has stuck with me the entire week. I hope it made sense, and I'm not the only one who feels this way about it.
Wednesday 29 October 2014
Week 11 Storytelling: Anger Issues
What a beautiful day for a trackmeet. The wind was blowing a nice and soothing breeze, the sun was out but veiling itself with a thin layer of cloud, and of course, the cheers from a stadium full of well-wishers, withering talents, and wannabes. I can easily get drunk off of this. I probably will one day. Right now, it's too sobering knowing that the cheers aren't for me. Most people don't know who I am. There is one small section over there calling my name, but they are drowning in a sea of screams. It's no matter. Everyone will join them by the end of today.
Time to line up, which means time to walk among the insults. Sure enough, just like everywhere else, the obnoxious drivel makes a path to lead me to my spot on the starting line. This bald gentleman calls me "kid" and says I'll be lucky to run the right direction. I gather his capacity for insult is below average. Another man with an Adonis build tells me I'll be eating his dust. I hate it when they say that. I hate it when they can't take me seriously! I'll show them. They'll see what I can do.
Gunshot.
I love this feeling. I love to sprint. I love to sprint towards an idiot, making him wonder what's going to happen next. They never quite know what's going to happen until I strike. Then, boom! Their hands and knees are scraping against the track, the wounds collecting gravel and dirt and blood. It's a wonderful feeling. In fact, I think it is one that a few certain individuals should experience, right now. Mr. Adonis, himself, can actually eat my dust. Just a few more to go. Plus, there's the finish line. Baldy up ahead is my last to deal with. He's about to be run over by a "kid". We'll see how he likes it.
Wham! There he goes! Haha! Ooh, and his bones crunch a little. Beautiful sound. For good measure, I can use his face for a springboard! There's the tape, there's the line, and there's the applause. Wonderful. This is what I live for, and these morons won't question my ability again, I would hope. It's good to be on top.
Author's Note
I adapted this from the Robin Hood Ballad called, Robin Hood's Progress to Nottingham, which follows a similar vain. However, I watched Chariots of Fire the other night, so a race was on my mind. It was a smooth transition to my Storytelling, so I decided to run with it (pun intended).
Time to line up, which means time to walk among the insults. Sure enough, just like everywhere else, the obnoxious drivel makes a path to lead me to my spot on the starting line. This bald gentleman calls me "kid" and says I'll be lucky to run the right direction. I gather his capacity for insult is below average. Another man with an Adonis build tells me I'll be eating his dust. I hate it when they say that. I hate it when they can't take me seriously! I'll show them. They'll see what I can do.
Gunshot.
I love this feeling. I love to sprint. I love to sprint towards an idiot, making him wonder what's going to happen next. They never quite know what's going to happen until I strike. Then, boom! Their hands and knees are scraping against the track, the wounds collecting gravel and dirt and blood. It's a wonderful feeling. In fact, I think it is one that a few certain individuals should experience, right now. Mr. Adonis, himself, can actually eat my dust. Just a few more to go. Plus, there's the finish line. Baldy up ahead is my last to deal with. He's about to be run over by a "kid". We'll see how he likes it.
Wham! There he goes! Haha! Ooh, and his bones crunch a little. Beautiful sound. For good measure, I can use his face for a springboard! There's the tape, there's the line, and there's the applause. Wonderful. This is what I live for, and these morons won't question my ability again, I would hope. It's good to be on top.
Author's Note
I adapted this from the Robin Hood Ballad called, Robin Hood's Progress to Nottingham, which follows a similar vain. However, I watched Chariots of Fire the other night, so a race was on my mind. It was a smooth transition to my Storytelling, so I decided to run with it (pun intended).
Friday 24 October 2014
Week 11 Reading Diary: Robin Hood
...
...This is not the Robin Hood I've heard of. He just killed 15 people because they told him he couldn't shoot a bow well. However, it tends to get a little better as time goes on. His meeting with Little John is about what I expected and is in fact very similar to their meeting in a certain Mel Brooks movie I adore. So, that kind of makes up for things concerning that introduction. Robin Hood is always quite clever and that makes the songs more enjoyable. Plus, it should be noted that the songs being kept in the original Olde English is very fun to try and read. I also went ahead and listened to a few of the recordings, just to say I did, and it was most definitely worth it. Also, there are quite a few "derry"s and "down"s throughout the songs, which makes it quite interesting, incredibly strange, and honestly, a little fun. If you ask me, though, I love these stories so far, but I prefer the easy-going, rob from the rich and give to the poor, kind of Robin Hood. He's a cool dude. This guy, well, he's got his moments, but he's different.
What's really surprising is how there became such an iconic hero as the Hollywood Robin Hood and what I'm assuming was in later English myth than from is in these ballads. What did it take for them to change his character so? I mean, while reading, I can get a glimpse of the legend that has been made into countless movies and storybooks and fantasies, but this Robin Hood is kind of a jerk. Don't get me wrong, I am thoroughly enjoying these ballads and tales. I think what I like about them so much is how they are singable. Who doesn't love a good song? Seriously, if Ariana Grande recorded a song with these Robin Hood lyrics, I might actually listen to Ariana Grande. I might still refrain if Nicki Minaj did them, though...
...This is not the Robin Hood I've heard of. He just killed 15 people because they told him he couldn't shoot a bow well. However, it tends to get a little better as time goes on. His meeting with Little John is about what I expected and is in fact very similar to their meeting in a certain Mel Brooks movie I adore. So, that kind of makes up for things concerning that introduction. Robin Hood is always quite clever and that makes the songs more enjoyable. Plus, it should be noted that the songs being kept in the original Olde English is very fun to try and read. I also went ahead and listened to a few of the recordings, just to say I did, and it was most definitely worth it. Also, there are quite a few "derry"s and "down"s throughout the songs, which makes it quite interesting, incredibly strange, and honestly, a little fun. If you ask me, though, I love these stories so far, but I prefer the easy-going, rob from the rich and give to the poor, kind of Robin Hood. He's a cool dude. This guy, well, he's got his moments, but he's different.
What's really surprising is how there became such an iconic hero as the Hollywood Robin Hood and what I'm assuming was in later English myth than from is in these ballads. What did it take for them to change his character so? I mean, while reading, I can get a glimpse of the legend that has been made into countless movies and storybooks and fantasies, but this Robin Hood is kind of a jerk. Don't get me wrong, I am thoroughly enjoying these ballads and tales. I think what I like about them so much is how they are singable. Who doesn't love a good song? Seriously, if Ariana Grande recorded a song with these Robin Hood lyrics, I might actually listen to Ariana Grande. I might still refrain if Nicki Minaj did them, though...
Wednesday 22 October 2014
Week 10 Essay: Native Americans Were Hippies
First of all, I want to make this clear, I am Native American - and I'm not Cherokee! I'm Choctaw, and I love my heritage. I think classes like this that set aside study for such a topic as Native American mythology is fantastic. This week, I read the Apache Stories section and last week, I read the Alaska mythology section. Both were absolutely fantastic! I loved it! What was really cool to see - and I'm pretty sure I mentioned this in my Reading Diary for this week, and possibly in something I blogged about last week - was the absolute love for Nature as a part of the myth. One thing that really struck me was the animals, in particular, are essential and rather sacred to what is going on. This was incredibly cool to see.
Both weeks, the mythology started with the creation of the earth and different creatures and what was an interesting comparison was the fact that the head god for both stories happened to be a raven. This was really intriguing, especially when in most stories in Western Civilization, ravens symbolize death in some form or fashion. So, seeing them being used to explain life and creation was different, but really cool to see - even more so since both myths followed the same line of thinking. Now, both stories used humans to progress the myth, but I felt they were more thoroughly prevelant in Alaskan myth as opposed to the Apache myths. I wonder if this might be because in Alaska, there is a bigger ratio of humans to animals than when and where the Apache Stories would have been made. This is pure speculation, obviously, but it's something to think about.
Now, I love Nature. Let me emphasize this: I love Nature. So, when myths not only have a desire to explain its creation or how it came to be but also holds it up on a pedestal, it is wonderful! I realize there is some of this occuring through other mythologies, but not to this level, I would argue. For the Apache and some Pagan individuals in the United Kingdom area, the forest - the plants, the animals, trees, wind, everything - is something of a wonder, and is meant to be treated as such. I just think it is really cool to see myths that portray Nature as something more than what is commonly accepted in today's society. I absolutely love that.
Author's Note
This, of course, is an essay over the Apache Stories unit. I really, really enjoyed this unit, and I hope the essay reflects that. Give it a read, if you have the time. Trickster stories are always cool, and the Coyote is definitely that.
Both weeks, the mythology started with the creation of the earth and different creatures and what was an interesting comparison was the fact that the head god for both stories happened to be a raven. This was really intriguing, especially when in most stories in Western Civilization, ravens symbolize death in some form or fashion. So, seeing them being used to explain life and creation was different, but really cool to see - even more so since both myths followed the same line of thinking. Now, both stories used humans to progress the myth, but I felt they were more thoroughly prevelant in Alaskan myth as opposed to the Apache myths. I wonder if this might be because in Alaska, there is a bigger ratio of humans to animals than when and where the Apache Stories would have been made. This is pure speculation, obviously, but it's something to think about.
Now, I love Nature. Let me emphasize this: I love Nature. So, when myths not only have a desire to explain its creation or how it came to be but also holds it up on a pedestal, it is wonderful! I realize there is some of this occuring through other mythologies, but not to this level, I would argue. For the Apache and some Pagan individuals in the United Kingdom area, the forest - the plants, the animals, trees, wind, everything - is something of a wonder, and is meant to be treated as such. I just think it is really cool to see myths that portray Nature as something more than what is commonly accepted in today's society. I absolutely love that.
Author's Note
This, of course, is an essay over the Apache Stories unit. I really, really enjoyed this unit, and I hope the essay reflects that. Give it a read, if you have the time. Trickster stories are always cool, and the Coyote is definitely that.
Tuesday 21 October 2014
Week 10 Storytelling: Spotless
The Coyote was pretty well infamous around the woods. He was notorious for his desire and knack for messing with his fellow animals. In fact, pretty much every other animal hated him for the trouble he would start and the tricks he would pull. However, because of his antics, he couldn't seem to make many friends, or fit in with the others (surprise, surprise). In fact, this was rather damaging to his family and their place in society. He would never admit to it, but this really hurt the Coyote, and so he thought it best if he would find a way to be like the other animals.
His chance came when a well-to-do deer frolicked on by. He thought to himself, "Maybe I could look like that deer, then they might accept me and my family as one of their own!" He caught up to the deer and asked, "Hello, deer. How did you get those lovely spots on your skin? I would like some, myself!" The deer looked at him strangely, expecting a punchline or some cruel jape to come out of the Coyote's mouth. When one never came, the deer thought up an ingenious idea.
"Get a couple of branches and start a fire with them. When the fire is blazing, you and your family need to stand next to it, and the sparks will give you spots." The deer's advice oddly made a lot of sense, so Coyote ran home to his family and told them the good news. "We're getting spots!" he yelped with joy. Everyone in the Coyote's family was excited and got right to work.
Once the fire was burning bright and hot, the Coyote called for his children to get close to the fire to get their spots. However, as they got close, and the sparks touched their skin, the spots were beginning to burn his children's skin. It got to the point where the children were burnt to a crisp, all black and charred. The Coyote howled in anger. In his rage, he grabbed a flaming branch and dragged it across the forest, setting the entire wood on fire.
"This will show the deer. This will show them all. This joke will keep them laughing."
Author's Note
I pretty much just recreated the story of Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted. The only changes I made were to add an emotional tie to the characters. It almost seems like the coyote is misunderstood, and the deer was just a jerk, because that's how I interpreted the actual story.
His chance came when a well-to-do deer frolicked on by. He thought to himself, "Maybe I could look like that deer, then they might accept me and my family as one of their own!" He caught up to the deer and asked, "Hello, deer. How did you get those lovely spots on your skin? I would like some, myself!" The deer looked at him strangely, expecting a punchline or some cruel jape to come out of the Coyote's mouth. When one never came, the deer thought up an ingenious idea.
"Get a couple of branches and start a fire with them. When the fire is blazing, you and your family need to stand next to it, and the sparks will give you spots." The deer's advice oddly made a lot of sense, so Coyote ran home to his family and told them the good news. "We're getting spots!" he yelped with joy. Everyone in the Coyote's family was excited and got right to work.
Once the fire was burning bright and hot, the Coyote called for his children to get close to the fire to get their spots. However, as they got close, and the sparks touched their skin, the spots were beginning to burn his children's skin. It got to the point where the children were burnt to a crisp, all black and charred. The Coyote howled in anger. In his rage, he grabbed a flaming branch and dragged it across the forest, setting the entire wood on fire.
"This will show the deer. This will show them all. This joke will keep them laughing."
Author's Note
I pretty much just recreated the story of Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted. The only changes I made were to add an emotional tie to the characters. It almost seems like the coyote is misunderstood, and the deer was just a jerk, because that's how I interpreted the actual story.
Monday 20 October 2014
Week 10 Reading Diary: Apache Stories
There's that Raven again! What is it with Native Americans and the importance of a Raven? I mean, I think Ravens are a cool bird and everything, but it is their essence of a god-like figure. That's just so strange to me. Anyway, I think the connection I see between these stories and the Alaska stories from last week is really cool, and I'm really enjoying it so far. However, this is not the main reason I decided to take on the Apache Stories. I originally decided I wanted to read them when I read in the description that there was a Coyote the Trickster involved. That has to be a lot of fun to read about, but I wouldn't know because I'm currently stuck with another Raven thing.
Naiyenesgani is an interesting character. He is a strange hero that I didn't expect to come from a Native American mythology because I thought those were more focused on the animals and nature and things like that. I mean, the guy is cool and everything - just not what I expected to read about. Regardless, I am enjoying these stories so far. I don't think this necessarily beats out my love for the Alaskan mythologies, but it is definitely a fun read.
Now, in the second half we get to the good stuff. Coyote the Trickster is at it. Why do I love this character so much, you may ask. Simply put, he's freaking cool. Specifically, the story of "Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted". It's incredibly tragic and the Coyote is the one who gets tricked in the story. I also think it makes an interesting case on deforistation. I may have to write my story or essay around this one. It's such a fantastic little tale and I really, really enjoy it. If anyone has a chance to read this one, they would be doing themselves quite a favor.
Now, that I finally got into the goodies that are the Coyote stories, I think I might be loving these stories more than the Alaska ones. Now, don't get me wrong. I think the Alaska stories are way cool and I still can't get over the mythology surrounding death, but these stories are amazing. With both mythologies, there is a deep love of animals and nature, which for a Transcendetalist like myself, is absolutely wonderful to read and enjoy. Anyway, I would definitely recommend these readings to anyone and everyone I know.
Naiyenesgani is an interesting character. He is a strange hero that I didn't expect to come from a Native American mythology because I thought those were more focused on the animals and nature and things like that. I mean, the guy is cool and everything - just not what I expected to read about. Regardless, I am enjoying these stories so far. I don't think this necessarily beats out my love for the Alaskan mythologies, but it is definitely a fun read.
Now, in the second half we get to the good stuff. Coyote the Trickster is at it. Why do I love this character so much, you may ask. Simply put, he's freaking cool. Specifically, the story of "Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted". It's incredibly tragic and the Coyote is the one who gets tricked in the story. I also think it makes an interesting case on deforistation. I may have to write my story or essay around this one. It's such a fantastic little tale and I really, really enjoy it. If anyone has a chance to read this one, they would be doing themselves quite a favor.
Now, that I finally got into the goodies that are the Coyote stories, I think I might be loving these stories more than the Alaska ones. Now, don't get me wrong. I think the Alaska stories are way cool and I still can't get over the mythology surrounding death, but these stories are amazing. With both mythologies, there is a deep love of animals and nature, which for a Transcendetalist like myself, is absolutely wonderful to read and enjoy. Anyway, I would definitely recommend these readings to anyone and everyone I know.
Monday 13 October 2014
Week 9 Essay: Alaskan Afterlife
After reading this unit, I was so blown away by how intriguing the Alaskan view on death was. First, though, I might should back up a bit.
The Alaskan mythology is overall very interesting to read about. It has been one of my favorites to go through so far. Now, what was really striking about the mythology as a whole, was that it felt like a nice cross between Native American mythology and Christianity. There was emphasis on the power of animals and nature which I particularly enjoy as I love animals and Transcendentalism, and the stories reflected similar stories I have seen in Christian stories - I'm looking at you, reoccuring flood motif. Anyway, I think these help the mythology of Alaska flow well and fit in with the other mythologies out there, making it a contender with some of my favorites.
Of course, back to what sets this mythology apart from all the others: the afterlife. There is only one real story I read concerning this area of spirituality and lore, but it was incredible how it portrayed death. In the story, once you die, you are escorted into the afterlife by the person you last thought of who is already dead. I thought this was actually quite a sweet sentiment. I also thought it was really cool how death ends up being much similar to life. In the story, the girl is sent to live in a home with her grandparents who had gone on before her and they sat a table to eat. Seems quite similar to life on earth.
The other aspect I thought was really cool about it was the fact that if you did something wrong in life, you were sent to an area where things were reversed on you in death. The example given in the story was that there was a village where, if you had been someone who beat dogs (again, emphasis on the importance of animals), you got to receive similar treatment and were beaten like a dog yourself. Sounds like justice to me! I really enjoyed this aspect of the afterlife, especially, since it seems like good and bad people both receive what they deserve. They have to be accountable for their actions and can't escape it in the afterlife. I love that.
Author's Note
In case you did not notice, I really enjoy stories regarding death. I just think it is really interesting to read about what others have believed to be beyond the world we know now and everything. Especially when no one is able to come from the afterlife back into this life and give us the lowdown on what all is going on. The unit I read is the Alaska section.
The Alaskan mythology is overall very interesting to read about. It has been one of my favorites to go through so far. Now, what was really striking about the mythology as a whole, was that it felt like a nice cross between Native American mythology and Christianity. There was emphasis on the power of animals and nature which I particularly enjoy as I love animals and Transcendentalism, and the stories reflected similar stories I have seen in Christian stories - I'm looking at you, reoccuring flood motif. Anyway, I think these help the mythology of Alaska flow well and fit in with the other mythologies out there, making it a contender with some of my favorites.
Of course, back to what sets this mythology apart from all the others: the afterlife. There is only one real story I read concerning this area of spirituality and lore, but it was incredible how it portrayed death. In the story, once you die, you are escorted into the afterlife by the person you last thought of who is already dead. I thought this was actually quite a sweet sentiment. I also thought it was really cool how death ends up being much similar to life. In the story, the girl is sent to live in a home with her grandparents who had gone on before her and they sat a table to eat. Seems quite similar to life on earth.
The other aspect I thought was really cool about it was the fact that if you did something wrong in life, you were sent to an area where things were reversed on you in death. The example given in the story was that there was a village where, if you had been someone who beat dogs (again, emphasis on the importance of animals), you got to receive similar treatment and were beaten like a dog yourself. Sounds like justice to me! I really enjoyed this aspect of the afterlife, especially, since it seems like good and bad people both receive what they deserve. They have to be accountable for their actions and can't escape it in the afterlife. I love that.
Author's Note
In case you did not notice, I really enjoy stories regarding death. I just think it is really interesting to read about what others have believed to be beyond the world we know now and everything. Especially when no one is able to come from the afterlife back into this life and give us the lowdown on what all is going on. The unit I read is the Alaska section.
Saturday 4 October 2014
Week 9 Storytelling: Crossing Over
She was dead. She had to be. There was no way one survives being run over by a train at maximum velocity and only walk away with minor scrapes and bruises. The world looked the same as it did before. Maybe a little darker, but it was hardly noticeable. She sat up on the train tracks and looked around. Everything was so quiet except for the echoing sound of footsteps as if they were being made down a vacant marble corridor. She turned to face her grandfather. Her grandfather had been dead for 5 years. She had been thinking of him just before the train hit, she remembered. That settled it. She was definitely dead.
She took her grandfather's outstretched hand and followed him as he took her towards the town she had just been sitting outside. He spoke not a word, and she asked no questions - too intrigued by the sights in front of her. There were screams coming from the village that startled her. As she and her grandfather entered the town, she noticed there were some people on all four limbs being whipped. What was more strange was the people doing the whipping were faceless. Her grandfather must have noticed her terror because he finally spoke up.
"This town is for Shades who beat animals in their life."
She let out a gasp. The gasp caused the faceless woman directly in front of her to shoot her head up form the job she was doing. Even without eyes, she felt the faceless woman was staring into her soul - which would be all of her considering she was dead. She backed away slowly and followed her grandfather to a river. It sounded like a waterfall with all the echoes coming from the waves. The river was uncrossable, but if they could get across, there was a single hut on the other side that had smoke rising from the chimney.
"Follow me." her grandfather said.
She watched as her grandfather took step after step on the surface of the water. It was as if there was an invisible bridge he was crossing. She followed him across the river. As they walked into the hut she saw a table prepared with dinner and her grandmother sitting in one of the seats. She sat down next to her and her grandfather sat down in the other seat. There was a question burning in the back of her mind that she just had to ask.
"Grandfather, how did you find me as soon as I died?"
"I was the last person you were thinking of, wasn't I?"
She nodded.
"The Shade of the last person you thought of in life is the Shade who guides you to your home in the Land of the Dead. You are now, home. Please, let us eat."
Author's Note
This is obviously from The Land of the Dead. It's an Alaskan myth and I kept most of it intact. I took out some of the things I veiwed as lesser points just to keep the story focused. It's a fun story (yes, I said "fun") to read and I would recommend it to anyone, especially if you're looking for any insight as to how the Alaskans think - particularly in regards to the Afterlife. It's pretty cool stuff.
She took her grandfather's outstretched hand and followed him as he took her towards the town she had just been sitting outside. He spoke not a word, and she asked no questions - too intrigued by the sights in front of her. There were screams coming from the village that startled her. As she and her grandfather entered the town, she noticed there were some people on all four limbs being whipped. What was more strange was the people doing the whipping were faceless. Her grandfather must have noticed her terror because he finally spoke up.
"This town is for Shades who beat animals in their life."
She let out a gasp. The gasp caused the faceless woman directly in front of her to shoot her head up form the job she was doing. Even without eyes, she felt the faceless woman was staring into her soul - which would be all of her considering she was dead. She backed away slowly and followed her grandfather to a river. It sounded like a waterfall with all the echoes coming from the waves. The river was uncrossable, but if they could get across, there was a single hut on the other side that had smoke rising from the chimney.
"Follow me." her grandfather said.
She watched as her grandfather took step after step on the surface of the water. It was as if there was an invisible bridge he was crossing. She followed him across the river. As they walked into the hut she saw a table prepared with dinner and her grandmother sitting in one of the seats. She sat down next to her and her grandfather sat down in the other seat. There was a question burning in the back of her mind that she just had to ask.
"Grandfather, how did you find me as soon as I died?"
"I was the last person you were thinking of, wasn't I?"
She nodded.
"The Shade of the last person you thought of in life is the Shade who guides you to your home in the Land of the Dead. You are now, home. Please, let us eat."
Author's Note
This is obviously from The Land of the Dead. It's an Alaskan myth and I kept most of it intact. I took out some of the things I veiwed as lesser points just to keep the story focused. It's a fun story (yes, I said "fun") to read and I would recommend it to anyone, especially if you're looking for any insight as to how the Alaskans think - particularly in regards to the Afterlife. It's pretty cool stuff.
Friday 3 October 2014
Week 9 Reading Diary: Alaska
The creation story is oddly similar to the creation story in the Christian
bible. Except, instead of God, we have a Raven. However, the Raven does very
similar things to God. He creates Man, and realizes he is lonely, so creates a
companion in the form of Woman. He creates the sun, and the sky, and the sea,
and everything like that, as it is what is needed for the men and women and
animals to survive. It is interesting to see these parallels, especially with
the section that I found to be the most interesting.
The section I am referring to is that one called "The Flood". Sounds like the flood of the story of Noah, right? It is in a lot of ways. Except, instead of people sinning so much that it makes God angry, it seems that Raven is just angry at humanity, with no explanation why. Anyway, there is a flood caused by a lot of rain. It nearly destroys everything until the Raven seems to get so angry with the people who are surviving that he decides to lower the waters. Weird, right?
Also, it should be noted that birds aren't named nor tides created or fire brought about until way later in the story. Like, I'm entering the halfway point, and the birds are just now being named. It seems there are a lot of things that are taking precedence, or at least there is focus on certain animals and situations being created or happening. It just seems that things are going too slow or there is too much to the story, at least in comparison to most myths I have been reading about throughout this semester.
Now, even after that do we finally get to see more women. That's right. Prior to chapter 12 or 13, or whichever it is that I'm on, there has only been one woman. Raven has to create more so the men and sons have companions, as well. It really makes you wonder how these men got around -- or created for that matter. However, the stories do get better as time goes on. The chapter that speaks on The Land of the Dead is actually quite interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend that one to anybody. And frankly, I might have to do my retelling on that story.
The section I am referring to is that one called "The Flood". Sounds like the flood of the story of Noah, right? It is in a lot of ways. Except, instead of people sinning so much that it makes God angry, it seems that Raven is just angry at humanity, with no explanation why. Anyway, there is a flood caused by a lot of rain. It nearly destroys everything until the Raven seems to get so angry with the people who are surviving that he decides to lower the waters. Weird, right?
Also, it should be noted that birds aren't named nor tides created or fire brought about until way later in the story. Like, I'm entering the halfway point, and the birds are just now being named. It seems there are a lot of things that are taking precedence, or at least there is focus on certain animals and situations being created or happening. It just seems that things are going too slow or there is too much to the story, at least in comparison to most myths I have been reading about throughout this semester.
Now, even after that do we finally get to see more women. That's right. Prior to chapter 12 or 13, or whichever it is that I'm on, there has only been one woman. Raven has to create more so the men and sons have companions, as well. It really makes you wonder how these men got around -- or created for that matter. However, the stories do get better as time goes on. The chapter that speaks on The Land of the Dead is actually quite interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend that one to anybody. And frankly, I might have to do my retelling on that story.
Thursday 2 October 2014
Week 8 Reading Diary
From the looks of things, I am relatively satisfied with my Reading Diaries so far. Admittadly, I have missed a step in the process, as I have yet to actually put a link to my stories in the Reading Diary. I didn't know I was supposed to do that! Of course, I'm really bad about skimming over things. I need to go back through all my Reading Diaries and correct this error, which may take a little bit of time. However, that seems to me to be the only thing that is truly wrong with them, after glancing over the instructions for every reading diary...unless of course, I'm missing something else. I should glance over it again...
Moving forward, I think what really works for my Reading Diaries is how much like a diary they come out. I'm really good about thinking out loud, or at least conveying the idea of me thinking out loud, and I think that really shines through in my various Reading Diaries. However, I think I might could try keeping these a bit more focused than they are. I almost feel as though they are too "all over the place" to really be conducive to anything they might be used for.
I think the highlight of any single Reading Diary I do is that I make good use of finding connections with other myths and such as I progress through the semester. I think that helps me understand the class better and is important to future studies as well as how I handle different posts in this class throughout the week. All in all, I enjoy my Reading Diaries, but I sometimes wonder if I should completely revamp some things so that they are of better use to me when I do my essays or retellings each week.
Moving forward, I think what really works for my Reading Diaries is how much like a diary they come out. I'm really good about thinking out loud, or at least conveying the idea of me thinking out loud, and I think that really shines through in my various Reading Diaries. However, I think I might could try keeping these a bit more focused than they are. I almost feel as though they are too "all over the place" to really be conducive to anything they might be used for.
I think the highlight of any single Reading Diary I do is that I make good use of finding connections with other myths and such as I progress through the semester. I think that helps me understand the class better and is important to future studies as well as how I handle different posts in this class throughout the week. All in all, I enjoy my Reading Diaries, but I sometimes wonder if I should completely revamp some things so that they are of better use to me when I do my essays or retellings each week.
Tuesday 30 September 2014
Week 7 Essay: Racism is Culture
Before I get bombarded with hatred and people thinking I'm some close-minded redneck, I want to make it clear that I do NOT condone racism. I think the thought of finding someone as less of a person just because of their background or skin color is completely wrong, and quite frankly, just awful.
However, with that said, my entire essay revolves around the importance of these stories. As some other people have expressed, Song of the South was a classic viewing back in my childhood. I remember the classic songs like "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah" and the fantastic cartoons revolving around Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear. The character of Uncle Remus is a great, Uncle Tom's Cabin-type grandfather figure. In fact, every time I've been to Disney World, I always make it a habit to ride Splash Mountain, as it is themed around these characters and stories.
As most people might know now, Song of the South has been banned, apparently for its "racist view of African Americans". I do not understand this. I get that there are some stereotypical attributes applied to certain characters, but this stems from the source material. These Brer Rabbit stories are told stylistically in the vein of 1800s African American dialect. A common example would be when someone is talking, the words following the statement are "sez Brer Rabbit, sezee". This can make the reading confusing, but it so perfectly captures the culture of the individuals telling the stories.
The morals and the concept of outwitting the bad guys transcends African myth and folklore and can be applied universally. However, I think it is incredibly important to keep that intact, despite whatever political correctness suggests, because this is history, this is culture, and this is what can help unlock the mysteries of various societies that we may not know a whole lot about.
The Brer Rabbit Collection
However, with that said, my entire essay revolves around the importance of these stories. As some other people have expressed, Song of the South was a classic viewing back in my childhood. I remember the classic songs like "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah" and the fantastic cartoons revolving around Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear. The character of Uncle Remus is a great, Uncle Tom's Cabin-type grandfather figure. In fact, every time I've been to Disney World, I always make it a habit to ride Splash Mountain, as it is themed around these characters and stories.
As most people might know now, Song of the South has been banned, apparently for its "racist view of African Americans". I do not understand this. I get that there are some stereotypical attributes applied to certain characters, but this stems from the source material. These Brer Rabbit stories are told stylistically in the vein of 1800s African American dialect. A common example would be when someone is talking, the words following the statement are "sez Brer Rabbit, sezee". This can make the reading confusing, but it so perfectly captures the culture of the individuals telling the stories.
The morals and the concept of outwitting the bad guys transcends African myth and folklore and can be applied universally. However, I think it is incredibly important to keep that intact, despite whatever political correctness suggests, because this is history, this is culture, and this is what can help unlock the mysteries of various societies that we may not know a whole lot about.
The Brer Rabbit Collection
Week 7 Storybook: Hunting Wabbits
Elmer Fudd tiptoed quietly through the forest in his big hat and his hunting rifle. He was incredibly careful not to make a sound. Anytime he heard some noise, he would shh whoever made the noise and tell them to be vewy, vewy quiet as he was hunting wabbits. He was after one particular "wabbit", in fact, as he had been tricked by the rabbit before. The rabbit was named Bugs Bunny, and he was a very tricky rabbit and always made poor Elmer Fudd look like a fool. What had Elmer Fudd done to Bugs? He just wanted to feed his family some delicious rabbit wabbit.
Bugs was a family man, and he had quite a big one. He had several children and he loved each and every one of them. He would occasionally see Elmer Fudd come creeping near his rabbit hole in hopes of stealing a little bunny, but Bugs was quite protective of them. Every time Elmer was around, Bugs would find a way to trick him into some big blunder and Elmer would lay low for awhile. Quite frankly, Bugs was getting kind of tired of it. He was about to go outside for a quick view of the surrounding area - it had been some time since Elmer had last attempted to turn him and his family into dinner - when he heard someone yelling outside.
"Hewp!! Huwwy! Someone hewp me!!"
Bugs peeked out of his hole. It was Elmer Fudd.
"Hewp me, wabbit! Some hunters awe after me!!"
Bugs let him into the hole and brought him over to a chest. "Hop in here, Elmer!" So Elmer did as he was told. "Those hunters will never find you in here!" Bugs then ran over to the fireplace and placed a kettle of tea above it.
Elmer popped his head out of the chest. "What awe you doing, mistew wabbit?"
"I'm getting you a nice cup of tea. You must be thirsty after all that running!"
Elmer closed the chest. Bugs came over and poked some holes into the chest.
"What awe you doing now, mistew wabbit?"
"I'm poking holes in this so you an breathe, Elmer!"
Elmer was really starting to think that he had misjudged the rabbit. He was an alright guy. Maybe after this, they could become close friends! However, about that moment, he began to feel the scalding water. "YOWWWW!!!!" He screamed and he leapt out of the chest and clambered up the hole as fast as he could. He ran away, hoping that the hunters that had been chasing him might find him.
Bugs followed him up the hole and watched as he ran away screaming. He looked back and winked. Then he went back into his chair and began to take a nap. "Finally, some peace."
Author's Note
I took one of my favorite Brer Rabbit stories, The Awful Fate of Mr. Wolf, and I turned it into a Looney Tunes cartoon. The entire time I was reading the story, this is what I had in my mind. The connection I thought was almost seamless, and I hope everyone enjoys reading it and can see the connection just as easily as I can.
Bugs was a family man, and he had quite a big one. He had several children and he loved each and every one of them. He would occasionally see Elmer Fudd come creeping near his rabbit hole in hopes of stealing a little bunny, but Bugs was quite protective of them. Every time Elmer was around, Bugs would find a way to trick him into some big blunder and Elmer would lay low for awhile. Quite frankly, Bugs was getting kind of tired of it. He was about to go outside for a quick view of the surrounding area - it had been some time since Elmer had last attempted to turn him and his family into dinner - when he heard someone yelling outside.
"Hewp!! Huwwy! Someone hewp me!!"
Bugs peeked out of his hole. It was Elmer Fudd.
"Hewp me, wabbit! Some hunters awe after me!!"
Bugs let him into the hole and brought him over to a chest. "Hop in here, Elmer!" So Elmer did as he was told. "Those hunters will never find you in here!" Bugs then ran over to the fireplace and placed a kettle of tea above it.
Elmer popped his head out of the chest. "What awe you doing, mistew wabbit?"
"I'm getting you a nice cup of tea. You must be thirsty after all that running!"
Elmer closed the chest. Bugs came over and poked some holes into the chest.
"What awe you doing now, mistew wabbit?"
"I'm poking holes in this so you an breathe, Elmer!"
Elmer was really starting to think that he had misjudged the rabbit. He was an alright guy. Maybe after this, they could become close friends! However, about that moment, he began to feel the scalding water. "YOWWWW!!!!" He screamed and he leapt out of the chest and clambered up the hole as fast as he could. He ran away, hoping that the hunters that had been chasing him might find him.
Bugs followed him up the hole and watched as he ran away screaming. He looked back and winked. Then he went back into his chair and began to take a nap. "Finally, some peace."
Author's Note
I took one of my favorite Brer Rabbit stories, The Awful Fate of Mr. Wolf, and I turned it into a Looney Tunes cartoon. The entire time I was reading the story, this is what I had in my mind. The connection I thought was almost seamless, and I hope everyone enjoys reading it and can see the connection just as easily as I can.
Week 7 Reading Diary: Brer Rabbit
I love these stories! As I've read on a lot of other people's blogs, I really enjoy reading stories based off of movies and TV shows I used to watch. These classic cartoons are popping into my head as I read them and it is a wonderful bit of nostalgia for me. I think my favorite story so far, from the first section, has to either be The Wonderful Tar-Baby Story or The Awful Fate of Mr. Wolf. I love both of them almost equally. I'm quite a big fan of these stories, even though they are quite formulaic, because I love to watch the dumb bad guy (who thinks he's rather smart and cunning) be outwitted by the good guy, whose nonchalance makes me find it even funnier.
The language is a bit difficult to pick up, and I kept trying to read it aloud to help it make more sense. I hate to say it, but reading the stories aloud made me feel almost racist. I know these stories have a place and everything, but the culture I've grown up in has made it seem like this isn't okay. I don't know if that makes any sense, but I may try to do my essay on it later in the week and expand on what I'm really trying to say. Because, like most things, it makes sense in my head...just not when I read it back.
One things, I can't believe I forgot to mention yesterday is the fact that most every animal is "Mr. So-and-so". I find that really interesting, and I'm not entirely sure why, but it makes the story that much more entertaining. Not just because of the personification of the animals, but more so because of the attitude, respect and reverence given to them by these titles. I think it's really cool to read about Mr. Fox or Mr. Wolf or Mr. Rabbit. I kind of like almost as much as I like the "Brer" titles. I think the term "Brer", here, has a ton of cultural significance to it, and it helps give the characters life.
I think my favorite story from the second half is Mr. Rabbit and Mr. Bear, just because I love the classic formula that I mentioned before. I actually had a colleague in my Feature Screenwriting class with Dr. Andy Horton read a Disney-fied Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox and Brer Bear story for a script assignment that we had to do involving a children's book. Hearing him describe his story came flooding back to me as I reading this as well as the other stories in this collection. I think having a collection of Uncle Remus stories is a fantastic thing to possess.
The language is a bit difficult to pick up, and I kept trying to read it aloud to help it make more sense. I hate to say it, but reading the stories aloud made me feel almost racist. I know these stories have a place and everything, but the culture I've grown up in has made it seem like this isn't okay. I don't know if that makes any sense, but I may try to do my essay on it later in the week and expand on what I'm really trying to say. Because, like most things, it makes sense in my head...just not when I read it back.
One things, I can't believe I forgot to mention yesterday is the fact that most every animal is "Mr. So-and-so". I find that really interesting, and I'm not entirely sure why, but it makes the story that much more entertaining. Not just because of the personification of the animals, but more so because of the attitude, respect and reverence given to them by these titles. I think it's really cool to read about Mr. Fox or Mr. Wolf or Mr. Rabbit. I kind of like almost as much as I like the "Brer" titles. I think the term "Brer", here, has a ton of cultural significance to it, and it helps give the characters life.
I think my favorite story from the second half is Mr. Rabbit and Mr. Bear, just because I love the classic formula that I mentioned before. I actually had a colleague in my Feature Screenwriting class with Dr. Andy Horton read a Disney-fied Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox and Brer Bear story for a script assignment that we had to do involving a children's book. Hearing him describe his story came flooding back to me as I reading this as well as the other stories in this collection. I think having a collection of Uncle Remus stories is a fantastic thing to possess.
Thursday 25 September 2014
Week 6 Essay: Battle Without Honor or Humanity
Where does Japanese mythology fall into with the other mythologies that have been studied throughout the semester so far? Well, that is a very interesting question. Thanks so much for asking. Here is the deal with Japanese mythology: there are multiple gods and everything, but they aren't that important. The focus of the mythology is on the heroes of that time. It appeals to a sense of "the gods will bless you if you are a stand-up individual, and if you don't believe me, here's a story to prove it" as a mentality. So there are gods, and they are responsible for creation and the weather and other things of that sort, but they are just there. It's not like it is "The Young and the Restless - Mt. Olympus Edition", because these deities are not simply above the world, they are of the world, and are only there to assist warriors of a pure heart.
This brings me to the real crux of what Japanese mythology is all about - the hero. Especially in the collections of stories available to read for this class, it all focuses on what the heroic warrior can do for other people. He goes on many adventures and he helps out those in need because he has the skill and the means to be of assistance. The gods are intermingled into the stories, but they are either the ones in need, or they are there to help out the hero because he is so virtuous. This, of course, is the key to everything. Virtue, honor, and integrity line each Japanese story to the point that good things happen to those with these qualities, and bad things happen to those who would undermine such gallantries.
It seems as though the battle of good and evil relies solely on the mindset of the individual and destiny is what you make it. The outcome of the hero will always be good if he desires to do good with what is given to him, and vice versa for whomever is obsessed with self-preservation or some other selfish desire. Because of this, there can probably be many comparisons made to other heroic folktales such as Robin Hood, as the semester progresses and the mindset of overly-dramatic gods begins to be abandoned.
Author's Note
This week I read the section on Japanese Mythology, and I loved it a lot! Great reads all throughout and I would recommend it to anyone. Again, the main focus of the reading was on the hero, Yamato, and I wanted to reflect that in my essay and how the focus had shifted from prior readings.
This brings me to the real crux of what Japanese mythology is all about - the hero. Especially in the collections of stories available to read for this class, it all focuses on what the heroic warrior can do for other people. He goes on many adventures and he helps out those in need because he has the skill and the means to be of assistance. The gods are intermingled into the stories, but they are either the ones in need, or they are there to help out the hero because he is so virtuous. This, of course, is the key to everything. Virtue, honor, and integrity line each Japanese story to the point that good things happen to those with these qualities, and bad things happen to those who would undermine such gallantries.
It seems as though the battle of good and evil relies solely on the mindset of the individual and destiny is what you make it. The outcome of the hero will always be good if he desires to do good with what is given to him, and vice versa for whomever is obsessed with self-preservation or some other selfish desire. Because of this, there can probably be many comparisons made to other heroic folktales such as Robin Hood, as the semester progresses and the mindset of overly-dramatic gods begins to be abandoned.
Author's Note
This week I read the section on Japanese Mythology, and I loved it a lot! Great reads all throughout and I would recommend it to anyone. Again, the main focus of the reading was on the hero, Yamato, and I wanted to reflect that in my essay and how the focus had shifted from prior readings.
Week 6 Storybook: A Stiff Drink
Thomas stood in the corner with an empty cup in his hand. The music was loud and the people were trying to compete, and no one said a word to him. This was the kind of stuff he was used to, but that didn't mean he liked it any more. He had actually just decided to leave when he spotted someone out of the corner of his eye. It was the girl from his Psych class. He couldn't remember her name, but she sat just a few seats away from her and thought she might be fun to talk to.
He began to walk toward her, but before he took two steps, a guy was walking over with a shirt that said, "Soccer moms are easy". He came bowling over, and Thomas could tell she was uninterested. She would avert her eyes and didn't seem to respond well to his advances. Thomas thought he might seize his chance. He walked over and tapped the guy on the shoulder.
"Excuse me, sir. I see you don't have a drink. Want me to get you one?" Thomas asked.
The guy shrugged him off, so Thomas took initiative and grabbed him off. Every time the guy ran out of beer, Thomas would go get him a refill. This happened several more times. On the 8th time, the alcohol was starting to show effects. The guy took a step forward and crashed to the ground. He had passed out completely. Thomas stepped over his body and approached the girl.
"I'm sorry about him. Would you like to go someplace else and talk?"
She nodded and grabbed the arm he extended out to her. They walked out and left all of the music and people behind. They went out to an IHOP and shared a cup of coffee and some Never-Ending Pancakes. They talked well into the morning, and when it was time to leave, she gave him her phone number. Thomas would later recall it as one of the best nights he ever had.
Author's Note
I took my storybook from the story, The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi. This story follows a man who kills an 8-headed snake by getting it all liquored up and cutting off its heads. I didn't want to have 8 snake-like jerks, so I just did the one and have it take him 8 drinks to collapse instead. The good guy still gets the girl, so I say it all works out.
He began to walk toward her, but before he took two steps, a guy was walking over with a shirt that said, "Soccer moms are easy". He came bowling over, and Thomas could tell she was uninterested. She would avert her eyes and didn't seem to respond well to his advances. Thomas thought he might seize his chance. He walked over and tapped the guy on the shoulder.
"Excuse me, sir. I see you don't have a drink. Want me to get you one?" Thomas asked.
"I'm sorry about him. Would you like to go someplace else and talk?"
She nodded and grabbed the arm he extended out to her. They walked out and left all of the music and people behind. They went out to an IHOP and shared a cup of coffee and some Never-Ending Pancakes. They talked well into the morning, and when it was time to leave, she gave him her phone number. Thomas would later recall it as one of the best nights he ever had.
Author's Note
I took my storybook from the story, The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi. This story follows a man who kills an 8-headed snake by getting it all liquored up and cutting off its heads. I didn't want to have 8 snake-like jerks, so I just did the one and have it take him 8 drinks to collapse instead. The good guy still gets the girl, so I say it all works out.
Monday 22 September 2014
Week 6 Reading Diary: Japanese Mythology
Gross. Brothers and sisters marrying each other. That's right - Japanese myth spawned from incest. George R.R. Martin would be proud. Izanagi and Izanami are the siblings. God of the Air and Goddess of the Clouds, respectively. Together, they will manipulate the world as they see it and desire it. I won't even attempt to spell their kids' names.
Various gods and goddesses are born and created to have various roles in the world's workings. There is a god of water and the moon and etc. The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi may be the coolest title ever for anything. It has eight heads and eight tails. That's a lot of snake. Of course, because this is Japanese mythology, I'm pretty dang sure this is more accurately a dragon. Anyway, Susa-no-wo tempts it with alcohol and then kills it by using this ridiculously large sword.
Admittadly, the rest of the stories are kind of boring until you get to the adventures involving Yamato, like the Rescue of the Princess. This story has to be inspiration for an Akira Kurosawa film. It's such a similar story. Very good read, and full of fun adventure.
As the readings continue, it seems the highlight of everything is Yamato and his adventures. And I really enjoyed yet another story involving a dragon. I really love this character. He is unlike any other character I've read so far and I think it has to do with the virtue and honour he contains. Regardless of the reason, Yamato makes for a great mythic character that I absolutely love to read and hope to dive a little deeper into.
Japanese mythology has become a staple of my myth study, and I look forward to what else I might be able to uncover throughout the course of this class.
Various gods and goddesses are born and created to have various roles in the world's workings. There is a god of water and the moon and etc. The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi may be the coolest title ever for anything. It has eight heads and eight tails. That's a lot of snake. Of course, because this is Japanese mythology, I'm pretty dang sure this is more accurately a dragon. Anyway, Susa-no-wo tempts it with alcohol and then kills it by using this ridiculously large sword.
Admittadly, the rest of the stories are kind of boring until you get to the adventures involving Yamato, like the Rescue of the Princess. This story has to be inspiration for an Akira Kurosawa film. It's such a similar story. Very good read, and full of fun adventure.
As the readings continue, it seems the highlight of everything is Yamato and his adventures. And I really enjoyed yet another story involving a dragon. I really love this character. He is unlike any other character I've read so far and I think it has to do with the virtue and honour he contains. Regardless of the reason, Yamato makes for a great mythic character that I absolutely love to read and hope to dive a little deeper into.
Japanese mythology has become a staple of my myth study, and I look forward to what else I might be able to uncover throughout the course of this class.
Thursday 18 September 2014
Week 5 Essay: Mythology Repeats Itself
There is a ton of information out there regarding The Voyages of Sindbad and its correlation to The Odyssey and the stories surrounding Odysseus' adventures as he travels homeward. This essay only has the room and focus for a few instances, but I think these may be the most common, and therefore, I wish to make them known to everyone. Knowing and understanding how various cultural mythologies intersect or borrow from each other is a very important aspect of understanding the importance of mythology in and of itself.
First of all, a key component of both mythologies is the central character. There is little difference between Odysseus from Homer's classic poem, and Sindbad the Sailor. They both rely on their wit to get them out of the inevitable sticky situations...which is rather common for both adventurers. As previously hinted, both characters are technically sailors - though I guess that's kind of debatable with Odysseus. Both have a difficult time with getting older and settling down from the lifestyle they are both used to, as well. Again, many similarities.
On their adventures, they run into similar obstacles. Particularly in Sindbad's third voyage, where he goes to a land filled with giants. These giants, in some instances, have only one eye, and they have a taste for humans. If that isn't comparable to Poseidon's son, the Cyclops, I don't know what is. Also, after escaping the giants, Sindbad and his crew run into a giant snake. This is a little less noticeable, but there is a sea creature that Odysseus must avoid that is made up of several snake heads - similar to that of a Hydra from the stories of Heracles.
Now, again, there are plenty of differances in these stories to make them their own, but if I were a betting man, I would bet on the theory that Sherizade took a couple of ideas from Homer. These, of course, are just my thoughts.
First of all, a key component of both mythologies is the central character. There is little difference between Odysseus from Homer's classic poem, and Sindbad the Sailor. They both rely on their wit to get them out of the inevitable sticky situations...which is rather common for both adventurers. As previously hinted, both characters are technically sailors - though I guess that's kind of debatable with Odysseus. Both have a difficult time with getting older and settling down from the lifestyle they are both used to, as well. Again, many similarities.
On their adventures, they run into similar obstacles. Particularly in Sindbad's third voyage, where he goes to a land filled with giants. These giants, in some instances, have only one eye, and they have a taste for humans. If that isn't comparable to Poseidon's son, the Cyclops, I don't know what is. Also, after escaping the giants, Sindbad and his crew run into a giant snake. This is a little less noticeable, but there is a sea creature that Odysseus must avoid that is made up of several snake heads - similar to that of a Hydra from the stories of Heracles.
Now, again, there are plenty of differances in these stories to make them their own, but if I were a betting man, I would bet on the theory that Sherizade took a couple of ideas from Homer. These, of course, are just my thoughts.
Author's Note
The story I read this week was The Voyages of Sindbad. Specifically, the Third Voyage. When I was reading this, I couldn't help but think it was the story of Odysseus. The similarities were ridiculous. Now, I hope this essay helps others who read it make some connections of their own.
Wednesday 17 September 2014
Week 5 Storytelling: A Pirate's Life for Me
Johnny Longbeard had an ironic name. Johnny was a clean-shaven guy, but the name resonated better than Johnny Nobeard or Johnny Peachfuzz. Plus, when you're a pirate, a name that seems at least mildly threatening is better than being the laughing stock of every port you visit. Johnny Longbeard was no laughing stock.
He and his crew were actually just returning from a recent voyage when they were hearing intriguing stories of an island filled with giant creatures that had tons of gold hidden in their caverns, if anyone was brave enough to seek it out.
This story interested Johnny Longbeard, and he asked to hear more of these giants and this island. However, as time went on, the story seemed less appealing. From the sound of things, the giants were a little too fond of eating people. It's not to say that Johnny was scared. Johnny wasn't scared of anything, but these creatures just sounded a little too much to handle.
"What about all that gold?" one of his crewmen asked. Johnny Longbeard looked him in the eye, pondered a moment, and said, "There are easier, safer ways to get rich. Going to this island sounds too much like a real job."
Author's Note
I love these Sindbad stories and I like how he is basically a pirate...but a hero. Like Jack Sparrow. I wanted to take Sindbad, and make him more American. What's more American than being too lazy to get rich underhanded?
The stories came from The Voyages of Sindbad.
He and his crew were actually just returning from a recent voyage when they were hearing intriguing stories of an island filled with giant creatures that had tons of gold hidden in their caverns, if anyone was brave enough to seek it out.
This story interested Johnny Longbeard, and he asked to hear more of these giants and this island. However, as time went on, the story seemed less appealing. From the sound of things, the giants were a little too fond of eating people. It's not to say that Johnny was scared. Johnny wasn't scared of anything, but these creatures just sounded a little too much to handle.
"What about all that gold?" one of his crewmen asked. Johnny Longbeard looked him in the eye, pondered a moment, and said, "There are easier, safer ways to get rich. Going to this island sounds too much like a real job."
Author's Note
I love these Sindbad stories and I like how he is basically a pirate...but a hero. Like Jack Sparrow. I wanted to take Sindbad, and make him more American. What's more American than being too lazy to get rich underhanded?
The stories came from The Voyages of Sindbad.
Tuesday 16 September 2014
Week 5 Reading Diary: The Voyages of Sindbad
This week, it is time to journey the seven seas...with seven journeys...on seven seas...yes. Sindbad's travels have always been really cool. Plus, as the introduction to the series of stories suggests, I have always thought there was a correlation between Sindbad and Odysseus. Both characters have an arrogant nature about them and are fond of sailing to seek out adventures.
My favorite story regarding Sindbad, so far at least, is his third voyage. This is the island he visits where he is first dealing with the giant bird known as a "roc". However, the roc isn't even the least of his worries, as this island is full of tons of large creatures that make for an interesting adventure. Of course, he eventually comes upon some giants that are not unlike the Cyclops in The Odyssey...I'm just saying. Anyway, this is probably my favorite of the voyages up to this point.
The last voyage is also pretty entertaining. I love how every single voyage starts with Sindbad saying he's never going to travel the seas again, but...and then he's off on another high-seas adventure. This last one starts a little differently to me, it seems. He goes on this trip as a favor for the friend he made in the last voyage.
The best part of this story? The elephants. I love me some elephants. These tales are so exotic and fun that I can't help but love them. If anyone actually reads this diary, please take the time to read these stories. They are absolutely fantastic.
My favorite story regarding Sindbad, so far at least, is his third voyage. This is the island he visits where he is first dealing with the giant bird known as a "roc". However, the roc isn't even the least of his worries, as this island is full of tons of large creatures that make for an interesting adventure. Of course, he eventually comes upon some giants that are not unlike the Cyclops in The Odyssey...I'm just saying. Anyway, this is probably my favorite of the voyages up to this point.
The last voyage is also pretty entertaining. I love how every single voyage starts with Sindbad saying he's never going to travel the seas again, but...and then he's off on another high-seas adventure. This last one starts a little differently to me, it seems. He goes on this trip as a favor for the friend he made in the last voyage.
The best part of this story? The elephants. I love me some elephants. These tales are so exotic and fun that I can't help but love them. If anyone actually reads this diary, please take the time to read these stories. They are absolutely fantastic.
Sunday 14 September 2014
Comment Wall
This is a place to post comments over the blog in general. If you have comments over a specific story, you are welcome to comment here or on that specific post. It's up to you!
But keep it classy, San Diego.
But keep it classy, San Diego.
Thursday 11 September 2014
Week 4 Essay: Why Ancient Egypt is so Important
This unit was a very fun and exciting read. I love Ancient Egypt. I think it is one of the coolest and most interesting times in history, as well as empires of the world. The mythology they had was so different from everything else that was going on in the world, and yet, it was so similar to things going on in other mythologies. The story of the two brothers felt so much like Cain and Abel from the Bible, as well as The Wax Crocodile is seemingly similar to Joseph being tempted by the wife of Pottifer, but with a different outcome.
Regardless, the one issue I have with this unit is that it is not long enough. There is so much more to what is going on and the mythology is so full of so many gods and stories that one little unit discussing only a small handful of tales is simply not going to cut it. I enjoyed the reading greatly, but I want more. I want a lot more. Of course, I have the capabilities to go off and read some more stories from this mythology at my convenience, but the mythology of Ancient Egypt is already so glossed over in most historical accounts and classes, that I hate to see it receive similar treatment here.
To make a long story short - there should be much more Ancient Egypt mythology in this class. Like Greek mythology, it has comedy, tragedy, and gives explanation to the world and especially the mindsets of those living in this area at the time of one of the greatest empires in history. Egypt was always much more than just the pyramids.
The stories.
Regardless, the one issue I have with this unit is that it is not long enough. There is so much more to what is going on and the mythology is so full of so many gods and stories that one little unit discussing only a small handful of tales is simply not going to cut it. I enjoyed the reading greatly, but I want more. I want a lot more. Of course, I have the capabilities to go off and read some more stories from this mythology at my convenience, but the mythology of Ancient Egypt is already so glossed over in most historical accounts and classes, that I hate to see it receive similar treatment here.
To make a long story short - there should be much more Ancient Egypt mythology in this class. Like Greek mythology, it has comedy, tragedy, and gives explanation to the world and especially the mindsets of those living in this area at the time of one of the greatest empires in history. Egypt was always much more than just the pyramids.
The stories.
Wednesday 10 September 2014
Week 4 Storytelling: The Lustful Jaws
"I have a hunger."
She sat on her patio and sipped on a cup of coffee, much like every morning. The only difference was her husband's new gardener - Lucas - was out in the yard, trimming the hedges. Lucas was a young man, hardly 17, but he was good with his hands and he knew how to clean the place up. This was quite an impressive feat in the light of her husband's large estate.
Her husband made it big in the Stock Market a few years ago and has simply lived off the profits ever since. Of course, with the kind of money he was bringing in, he changed some. He wasn't quite as fun as he once was. He was rather concerned with keeping tabs on his money. To be honest, he seemed to do little outside of counting the money he was organizing into various funds.
"I have a need."
Lucas was paid well by her husband, too. With the money he was making, he could to go to college and beyond. He would tell them all the time about his desires of becoming a physician. How cute. She was more interested in what he could do for her. This is why she had skipped out on playing tennis today. She had other plans in mind.
"I have a desire."
She walked up to Lucas. "Would you like to take a break and come get a drink?" Lucas wiped is brow, rose from the crouch he was in, and followed her into the house and into the kitchen. This was too easy. She had him in a matter of minutes. Only when the sounds of wheels on gravel came in through the bedroom window did she think about what to do when her husband came home.
"Quick! Go back to the yard! I'll stall my husband." She ran down the stairs and into the foyer, just as her husband was walking in. "Hello, honey! What are you doing home so soon?" He shrugged his shoulders, clearly weary of a long day of staring at papers and numbers. She helped him out of his suit jacket and walked him into the living room. "You must be worn out. Let me make you a drink."
About this time, a thump came from above her husband's head. Lucas was making too much noise upstairs. Her husband got up and went to investigate. "No, honey! Don't go up there! It's not like - it's not what you - Lucas came on to me! He forced me into it!" Her husband turned to her, his face red, and then turned back to the stairs where Lucas was now standing, holding his pants up by his hands and only one arm through a shirt sleeve.
"I have a hunger."
Lucas was immediately fired. After yelling at him and literally throwing him out of the house, he huffed up the stairs and not a word came out of him for several hours. She got off scot free. It was sad to see Lucas go, and so young, but there would be other men she would come across. Not to worry. Blaming the whole thing on him was ingenious of her, she knew. Her husband was easy to work over.
Eventually, she walked up to the bedroom herself and walked in on her husband packing a suitcase. Was this really happening? No! It couldn't! What would she do? Where would she go? Then, she noticed the clothes were his. "Where are you going?" He did not respond. "Honey, what are you doing?" He said nothing. She sat on the bed, and watched him work for what felt like hours. Once he was all packed, he grabbed his suitcase, walked down the stairs and out the door - out of the house and her life forever. He left her the house and a lot of what came with that. She simply had to work a small job to make a little extra cash. Soon, she was even able to afford another gardener.
"I have a hunger."
Author's Note:
I took this story from The Wax Crocodile of Egyptian mythology. I wanted to do something a bit more modern with it and I didn't want there to be a physical crocodile present, so the crocodile become represented by the woman's sexual desire. The two "wrongdoers" of the story are devoured by these metaphorical jaws. Lucas is sent away and loses his chance at school and a better future, and while not much happens to the woman, she ultimately loses who she was before the story takes place, consumed by this desire. Since it was from her perspective, I couldn't show who she was before, so that's why I added the "I have a hunger" bit. Plus, it adds a little poetic feel to the story. Also, I really liked having only her being the one to talk. It seems like no one else's words were important to her, just as she and her husband are not named, because Lucas as a physical entity is all that matters to her, physically.
Also, never do a Google Image Search of simply the word "Lust". Friendly advice.
She sat on her patio and sipped on a cup of coffee, much like every morning. The only difference was her husband's new gardener - Lucas - was out in the yard, trimming the hedges. Lucas was a young man, hardly 17, but he was good with his hands and he knew how to clean the place up. This was quite an impressive feat in the light of her husband's large estate.
Her husband made it big in the Stock Market a few years ago and has simply lived off the profits ever since. Of course, with the kind of money he was bringing in, he changed some. He wasn't quite as fun as he once was. He was rather concerned with keeping tabs on his money. To be honest, he seemed to do little outside of counting the money he was organizing into various funds.
"I have a need."
Lucas was paid well by her husband, too. With the money he was making, he could to go to college and beyond. He would tell them all the time about his desires of becoming a physician. How cute. She was more interested in what he could do for her. This is why she had skipped out on playing tennis today. She had other plans in mind.
"I have a desire."
She walked up to Lucas. "Would you like to take a break and come get a drink?" Lucas wiped is brow, rose from the crouch he was in, and followed her into the house and into the kitchen. This was too easy. She had him in a matter of minutes. Only when the sounds of wheels on gravel came in through the bedroom window did she think about what to do when her husband came home.
"Quick! Go back to the yard! I'll stall my husband." She ran down the stairs and into the foyer, just as her husband was walking in. "Hello, honey! What are you doing home so soon?" He shrugged his shoulders, clearly weary of a long day of staring at papers and numbers. She helped him out of his suit jacket and walked him into the living room. "You must be worn out. Let me make you a drink."
About this time, a thump came from above her husband's head. Lucas was making too much noise upstairs. Her husband got up and went to investigate. "No, honey! Don't go up there! It's not like - it's not what you - Lucas came on to me! He forced me into it!" Her husband turned to her, his face red, and then turned back to the stairs where Lucas was now standing, holding his pants up by his hands and only one arm through a shirt sleeve.
"I have a hunger."
Lucas was immediately fired. After yelling at him and literally throwing him out of the house, he huffed up the stairs and not a word came out of him for several hours. She got off scot free. It was sad to see Lucas go, and so young, but there would be other men she would come across. Not to worry. Blaming the whole thing on him was ingenious of her, she knew. Her husband was easy to work over.
Eventually, she walked up to the bedroom herself and walked in on her husband packing a suitcase. Was this really happening? No! It couldn't! What would she do? Where would she go? Then, she noticed the clothes were his. "Where are you going?" He did not respond. "Honey, what are you doing?" He said nothing. She sat on the bed, and watched him work for what felt like hours. Once he was all packed, he grabbed his suitcase, walked down the stairs and out the door - out of the house and her life forever. He left her the house and a lot of what came with that. She simply had to work a small job to make a little extra cash. Soon, she was even able to afford another gardener.
"I have a hunger."
Author's Note:
I took this story from The Wax Crocodile of Egyptian mythology. I wanted to do something a bit more modern with it and I didn't want there to be a physical crocodile present, so the crocodile become represented by the woman's sexual desire. The two "wrongdoers" of the story are devoured by these metaphorical jaws. Lucas is sent away and loses his chance at school and a better future, and while not much happens to the woman, she ultimately loses who she was before the story takes place, consumed by this desire. Since it was from her perspective, I couldn't show who she was before, so that's why I added the "I have a hunger" bit. Plus, it adds a little poetic feel to the story. Also, I really liked having only her being the one to talk. It seems like no one else's words were important to her, just as she and her husband are not named, because Lucas as a physical entity is all that matters to her, physically.
Also, never do a Google Image Search of simply the word "Lust". Friendly advice.
Tuesday 9 September 2014
Week 4 - Reading Diary
Oh, yeah! You know what time it is? That's right, playas! It's Ancient Egypt mythology time! This stuff is fantastic - whacked out, full of betrayal, and clearly one of the most intriguing mythologies in history.
Ra - here is one of the coolest gods ever. First of all, the strength of this guy is based on the position of the sun. Crazy awesome. But wait, there's more! He spends most of his time taking new forms and walking the earth, so he's not only a god, but he also takes the classic role of "the wanderer". It's such a rich story.
The secret name of Ra is a fantastic story. I'm quite interested in this stuff. The gods of Egypt seem relatively Greek, but something seems to set them apart from the gods of Greek mythology, who always seem to be incredibly human - possibly to a fault. However, the Egyptian gods are above the human race, most assuredly.
I think my favorite story, so far, is that of the Wax Crocodile. Crocodiles in general are a fantastic creature and play a very interesting role in the Egyptian mythology. I still don't entirely understand what the story means, but that's part of the intrigue for me. I think there's so much going on, symbolically, that I need to reread it and see if there is anything else I might can discover in terms of hidden meaning.
The Two Brothers is a pretty awesome story. I thought for a minute it was going to be like Cain and Abel, but no. It ended up nice and different. I really like the younger brother, Bata, but the elder brother, Anpu, also seems to have many virtuous qualities. For instance, Anpu travels for three years looking for a way to revive Bata, and succeeds! It's pretty awesome!
Then Bata becomes a sacred bull - what? Anyway, he eventually becomes a Pharoah, I guess, as he rules for 30 years. An interesting twist is that, upon his death, his brother, Anpu, takes over and rules in his stead.
The Book of Thoth - is it imaginary? Is it just part of a cruel trick? Or does it actually mean something? Who knows? It sure makes for some excellent poetry, though. Wait! It does exist! And in it is all the power of the universe? How cool is that? If you can't tell, I'm still really enjoying this business. The Egyptians had some pretty great stories to tell, if I do say so myself. Which I do. Because I just did.
Also, King Rhampsinitus has ties to the Greek. I told you there were relations there.
Ra - here is one of the coolest gods ever. First of all, the strength of this guy is based on the position of the sun. Crazy awesome. But wait, there's more! He spends most of his time taking new forms and walking the earth, so he's not only a god, but he also takes the classic role of "the wanderer". It's such a rich story.
The secret name of Ra is a fantastic story. I'm quite interested in this stuff. The gods of Egypt seem relatively Greek, but something seems to set them apart from the gods of Greek mythology, who always seem to be incredibly human - possibly to a fault. However, the Egyptian gods are above the human race, most assuredly.
I think my favorite story, so far, is that of the Wax Crocodile. Crocodiles in general are a fantastic creature and play a very interesting role in the Egyptian mythology. I still don't entirely understand what the story means, but that's part of the intrigue for me. I think there's so much going on, symbolically, that I need to reread it and see if there is anything else I might can discover in terms of hidden meaning.
The Two Brothers is a pretty awesome story. I thought for a minute it was going to be like Cain and Abel, but no. It ended up nice and different. I really like the younger brother, Bata, but the elder brother, Anpu, also seems to have many virtuous qualities. For instance, Anpu travels for three years looking for a way to revive Bata, and succeeds! It's pretty awesome!
Then Bata becomes a sacred bull - what? Anyway, he eventually becomes a Pharoah, I guess, as he rules for 30 years. An interesting twist is that, upon his death, his brother, Anpu, takes over and rules in his stead.
The Book of Thoth - is it imaginary? Is it just part of a cruel trick? Or does it actually mean something? Who knows? It sure makes for some excellent poetry, though. Wait! It does exist! And in it is all the power of the universe? How cool is that? If you can't tell, I'm still really enjoying this business. The Egyptians had some pretty great stories to tell, if I do say so myself. Which I do. Because I just did.
Also, King Rhampsinitus has ties to the Greek. I told you there were relations there.
Thursday 4 September 2014
Week 3 Essay: Come on in, the Water is Fine
Destruction by water is an interesting concept. Water generally implies a cleansing. However, I guess that makes sense here, as the idea is that God is cleansing or purifying the world through a flood - but this does lead to a destruction (more so an annihilation) of everyone and everything - except for Noah, his family, and lucky animal couples. So, while reading Ovid's Metamorpheses last week, there was a flood in that story as well, so I thought I would look at this story of Noah and compare it to not only the other flood story of Greek myth, but other stories from various mythologies.
To start with the flood, in Greek myth, Zeus and Poseidon basically work together to drown the world, as Zeus' anger was kindled against the world. However, the difference between Zeus and God here, is that Zeus wants to destroy everyone and everything, while God saves two of every creature for repopulation. It is interesting to note that both show an anger towards humans at this point, but there is a hope for the future with the Jewish God.
Plato had a theory that involved a flood. There was supposedly a city - an island in some tales - called Atlantis. A great flood came and engulfed the city and the idea is that it is still in existence, either under the ocean, or somewhere out in the middle of it.
In fact, in most stories and myths, a flood plays a roll in the destruction of some world. In the Jewish and Christian texts, there is a sense of purification involved, but in the majority of the myths and folktales there is only destruction and anger. This makes for an interesting look at the different gods that people believe in and study.
Noah's Story
To start with the flood, in Greek myth, Zeus and Poseidon basically work together to drown the world, as Zeus' anger was kindled against the world. However, the difference between Zeus and God here, is that Zeus wants to destroy everyone and everything, while God saves two of every creature for repopulation. It is interesting to note that both show an anger towards humans at this point, but there is a hope for the future with the Jewish God.
Plato had a theory that involved a flood. There was supposedly a city - an island in some tales - called Atlantis. A great flood came and engulfed the city and the idea is that it is still in existence, either under the ocean, or somewhere out in the middle of it.
In fact, in most stories and myths, a flood plays a roll in the destruction of some world. In the Jewish and Christian texts, there is a sense of purification involved, but in the majority of the myths and folktales there is only destruction and anger. This makes for an interesting look at the different gods that people believe in and study.
Noah's Story
Wednesday 3 September 2014
Week 3 Storytelling: Water, Water Everywhere
Need a boat built? I Noah guy. He is this crazy old Jewish guy who keeps telling everyone that the sky is falling. He's been saying this for a couple hundred years and the sky has yet to fall. Sounds like Chicken Little, right? Either way, he's been diligent at it ever since his God told him what to do. That's a long time to be building a boat. What's he building it for, you ask? Let me back up a little bit.
First of all, have you ever heard of rain? I haven't, and it sounds ridiculous. The sky turning into water and falling on us? Even more farfetched. Please give me something realistic for the end of the world, like a bunch of meteors wiping out all the dinosaurs or a massive stampede of unicorns. This rain and flood business is too far out there, and so is Noah.
Anyway, he's been proclaiming we're all gonna die and that he's been chosen by this God of his to repopulate the earth. Someone's got an ego. Anyway, for years he's been at it! He's getting kind of old, too. I mean, not as old as his grandfather, Methuselah, but still. He's no Spring Chicken Little, if you know what I mean. Regardless, he's pretty determined. Oh! I didn't even mention the best part! He plans to take two of every animal, and stick them on this boat so they can repopulate the earth, too! How weird is that? Also, what about some of those animals. If the lions don't eat the sheep, I'll be very surprised!
Plop! What's this? Something cold and wet just hit my head! Plop! What is going on here? This isn't happening! I have to get out of here! Head for high ground! Plop! Plop! Plop! This isn't gonna end well. Ooh...the sky looks like a waterfall...
Wait. Crap.
Author's Note:
I love the story of Noah. I think it is a great tale and does well as a sort of "This is so ridiculous but explains so much" kind of story. I really wanted to look at Noah's scoffers - see why they scoff and see what happens to them when Noah is proven right. It was a very fun little writing.
The Flood
First of all, have you ever heard of rain? I haven't, and it sounds ridiculous. The sky turning into water and falling on us? Even more farfetched. Please give me something realistic for the end of the world, like a bunch of meteors wiping out all the dinosaurs or a massive stampede of unicorns. This rain and flood business is too far out there, and so is Noah.
Anyway, he's been proclaiming we're all gonna die and that he's been chosen by this God of his to repopulate the earth. Someone's got an ego. Anyway, for years he's been at it! He's getting kind of old, too. I mean, not as old as his grandfather, Methuselah, but still. He's no Spring Chicken Little, if you know what I mean. Regardless, he's pretty determined. Oh! I didn't even mention the best part! He plans to take two of every animal, and stick them on this boat so they can repopulate the earth, too! How weird is that? Also, what about some of those animals. If the lions don't eat the sheep, I'll be very surprised!
Plop! What's this? Something cold and wet just hit my head! Plop! What is going on here? This isn't happening! I have to get out of here! Head for high ground! Plop! Plop! Plop! This isn't gonna end well. Ooh...the sky looks like a waterfall...
Wait. Crap.
Author's Note:
I love the story of Noah. I think it is a great tale and does well as a sort of "This is so ridiculous but explains so much" kind of story. I really wanted to look at Noah's scoffers - see why they scoff and see what happens to them when Noah is proven right. It was a very fun little writing.
The Flood
Tuesday 2 September 2014
Week 3 Reading Diary: The Legends of Noah
Well, here's a cool little story. Cain kills his brother Abel and the whole world goes to pot. Noah is the only spiritual guy on the planet - not an exaggeration. So, God tells him, "Build a huge boat, because I'm gonna make it rain." This is not to be confused with 'making it rain' - the art of earning dollars and tossing them in the air like a playa.
So Noah gets to work, and this is what makes him such a groovy cat, he works forever. He takes several years to make this boat out of gopher wood (what the heck is that?), all because some voice in the sky tells him to. He's that faithful. I mean, I've got faith and everything, but not like that. But then, what's even better, is that his family helps him out. They're all like, "Okay, Noah. We do what you feel is best." None of them had ever seen rain before! It's crazy! Plus, if you have seen the Bill Cosby routine on this, it is even better.
Anyway, God floods the earth and everything, but not before Noah and his family get two of every animal on this Ark. For 40 days and 40 nights, it rains like crazy. Then eventually, the Ark lands on ground, the dove comes back with a branch in its mouth, and they leave.
God makes a covenant with Noah and his family, and promises to never flood the whole earth again. Eventually, Noah gets crazy drunk and his kids have to cover his nakedness. Eventually, generations later (which passes through the tragically named, Nimrod), people attempt to make a tower that leads to Heaven. God doesn't like that and separates people by skin and language.
So Noah gets to work, and this is what makes him such a groovy cat, he works forever. He takes several years to make this boat out of gopher wood (what the heck is that?), all because some voice in the sky tells him to. He's that faithful. I mean, I've got faith and everything, but not like that. But then, what's even better, is that his family helps him out. They're all like, "Okay, Noah. We do what you feel is best." None of them had ever seen rain before! It's crazy! Plus, if you have seen the Bill Cosby routine on this, it is even better.
Anyway, God floods the earth and everything, but not before Noah and his family get two of every animal on this Ark. For 40 days and 40 nights, it rains like crazy. Then eventually, the Ark lands on ground, the dove comes back with a branch in its mouth, and they leave.
God makes a covenant with Noah and his family, and promises to never flood the whole earth again. Eventually, Noah gets crazy drunk and his kids have to cover his nakedness. Eventually, generations later (which passes through the tragically named, Nimrod), people attempt to make a tower that leads to Heaven. God doesn't like that and separates people by skin and language.
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