Minds On-Letter from a concerned friend

Said my friend,
I have gotten news of your release from jail. I apologize that I was not there to take you home myself.  Your family misses you but I know it came as a shock to you considering that your wife is no longer married to you. The message you left me deeply concerned me. My friend revenge is not always the best path. I agree with you , you deserve justice as does anyone and as your lawyer no as your best friend I have worked tediously on your case the minute you were forced behind bars. Justice is a system that can be quite corrupt as the irony is the ones who deserve justice are often the ones who pay the price for it.

My friend I advise you to let your old family go, they have taken much from you but the minute you begin to accept that it is over the faster you are on the road to recovery.Let them go and come join me, I can help you get on your feet and find you a job at my law firm. The revolver is not an escape from this fear, and if you shoot someone then it is set in stone for life. Give it back, no throw it away it is only darkness.

My friend if you accept Allah study Islam, the the lord will give you the justice you deserve. Do not dirty your hands with the fouls of human.

As always your friend
Aymaira

Poem- Tragic Hero

A story not of a villan or foe 

but one that exists with a tragic hero

Said a man whose fallen  from grace

is not a story that cannot be traced

Confined Contained this man's hate

became revenge, a nasty trait

Release was not enough justice had to be served

For Said's hubris told this was not what he deserved

Rejected from Sana a rose so sweet 

he blamed it all on his wife's deceit

Though sheikh gave him a light to prevail 

he only thought of the rotting jail

As darkness all but took over  him 

Nur gave a light to room almost dim

Although her love would brighten his heart

he'd still remember his start

As revenge became anger

and anger, revenge

Hamertia became his tragic end

Passage Analysis

Passage: Chapter 1

How will he look when he first sees you? How will his eyes meet yours? Have you forgotten, Ilish, how you used to rub against my legs like a dog? It was me, wasn't it, who taught you how to stand on your own two feet, who made a man of a cigarette-butt cadger? You've forgotten, Ilish, and you're not the only one: She's forgotten, too, that woman who sprang from filth, from vermin, from treachery and infidelity.

Through all this darkness only your face, Sana, smiles. When we meet I'll know how I stand. In a little while, as soon as I've covered the length of this road, gone past all these gloomy arcades, where people used to have fun. Onward and upward. But not to glory. I swear I hate you all.

The bars have shut down and only the side streets are open, where plots are hatched From time to time he has to cross over a hole in the pavement set there like a snare and the wheels of streetcars growl and shriek like abuse. Confused cries seem to seep from the curbside garbage. (1 swear I hate you all.) Houses of temptation, their windows beckoning even when eyeless, walls scowling where plaster has fallen. And that strange lane, al-Sayrafi Lane, which brings back dark memories. Where the thief stole, then vanished, whisked away. (Woe to the traitors.) Where police who'd staked out the area had slithered in to surround you.

The same little street where a year before you'd been carrying home flour to make sweetmeats for the Feast, that woman walking in front of you, carrying Sana in her swaddling clothes. Glorious days--how real they were, no one knows--the Feast, love, parenthood, crime. All mixed up with this spot.


Analysis

The following passage is taken from chapter 1 from the novel the Thief and the Dogs. Naguib Mahfouz paints the story of Said, a man who feels betrayed by his family and friends after his prison release. The key elements in this are the plot development, imagery, and characterization. Considering the audience has just been introduced to Said they are able to understand conflicts from his view points. With the use of stream of consciousness Mahfouz is able to reveal Said's darkest innermost thoughts making the audience aware of his revenge plot. In this passage he has gone to his wife's house to retrieve his daughter, but is rejected. 

Said's charterers is a complex one as it times the audience  is meant to sympathize with him when he is rejected from his daughter, whereat other times they are given justification for his actions. The best example of this switch is the passage above. The passage reveals the interactions between Illish (Said's friend) and Said. As it can be seen that Said begins with the remark "How you used to rub against my legs like a dog". At this point the audience is able to see the connection with animal imagery and the title of the book, implying the dogs are the betrayers.  This stated the audience is able to understand the relationship Said and Illish had before where they were genuinely close to the extent where Illish would worship Said. This stated the reader is unable to understand why their relationship deteriorated hence setting a sense of mystery.

Further looking into the use of dogs and its imagery in chapter 1 specifically in Arabic and English there are multiple interpretations that arise.  Depending on whether the reader is reading the translated novel, or the actual novel when looking at how dogs are portrayed this can be seen as ironic, because dogs are known as extremely loyal, although when looking at this from the Arabic culture this makes more sense as dogs are looked down upon.  Further going into the animal imagery it further emphasize the betrayal Said is facing. In the sense of characterization the audience is able to understand Said's point of view. 

As the passage continues the reader is able to see the switch in behavior when Said addresses his daughter, Sana.  The way Sana is described tells the reader that she is innocent, and almost a father's child. In the sense that Said's affections describe her the way he remembered her before he went to prison. He also describes her in another light looking at her now, seeing a grown up child. The reader is able to see through Said's eyes and feel an intimate connection as this feeling is a relatable one. As the reader gets attached to Sana the way Said is, Mahfouz uses her coming of age as a way to reject Said resulting in the reader's feeling of sympathy for said. 

Stream of Consiousness

Thief and the dogs is a novel grounded in a category known as realistic fiction, therefore when the stream of consciousness tool is applied it is easy to recognize and relate with the character and context. Stream of Consciousness is a tool used by writers to express a character's unfiltered train of thought. It helps establish an intimate connection between thee reader and character, as the reader is enabled to see the emotions and innermost desires of the character. The tool can be used in many ways but depending on the register/usage it can have a negative impact or a positive one.

When understanding the positives it would be the ability to connect with the character on an emotional level.  Mahfouz applies this technique in the novel Thief and the dogs to reveal Said (the main character's) innermost thoughts and emotions. In contrast the tool can also be used in a sense where it results in a decay of plot and character as it presents the reader with either gibberish (incoherent language) due to the random thought process or a 2-dimensional plot where too much is revealed where the character becomes too engrossed in his own mind that the perception and overall outlook of the characters is differed. Keeping that in mind it is important to see how the tool is used in the novel itself.

As the reader experiences the events which occur in the novel they are able to understand the reason of the events through the characterization of Said. Stream of consciousness is used to show Said's thirst for revenge after his release from prison. It is developed as his thoughts express his hatred for his wife and longing to be reunited with his daughter. Mahfouz uses italics as a way of communicating his thoughts in order to help the reader differentiate from mind and speech. The use of italics in a sense increases the impact the stream of consciousness tool has as it further gives the reader to escape into the character's reality. Considering that italics give a large impactful meaning in the English translation it is important to understand that they do not exist in the arabic (written) version of the novel. Considering the novel was written in Arabic and then translated to English it is a possibility to understand the tool is not effective in the register of another language where it would not have a beneficial impact on the reader.

Additionally the tool stream of consciousness helps differentiate between the narration types with italics being used to switch between the different types of internal monologues (direct and indirect).  Going further into this, it is seen in the novel that direct narration is italicized to symbolize a direct thought. Examples of this are seen at the beginning of the novel, his release from jail and the thoughts expressed of his hatred and thirst for revenge are seen as direct narration. The tone presented is almost blind-sided anger to the extent where the character's mind is engulfed in his own idea of what is correct. There is a shift in narration after Said’s daughter rejects him as now a new feeling is introduced. Considering the narration is now fixated on sadness, despair and in a sense anger as well due to interactions with another character it is now seen as indirect narration. This change in narration with the tool of stream of consciousness further helps with understanding the progression of the plot.

Personally I feel Mahfouz overall implicated the tool of stream of consciousness effectively. Looking at the examples from class where one portrayed incoherent language through uncensored thought and the other portrayed a further depth and understanding of the character, I feel Said’s shift in narration with the tool not only communicated his feelings but also gave understanding of the events which followed his emotional response.

Lost or Found Literature in Translation

The values and beliefs different cultures have are reflected through the literature presented. As each culture is different the values reflected can be either seen as conflicting interests, or common ground. Literature in translation is a tedious task as it requires an individual has to translate each word to communicate the same thing in another language.

 The IB curriculum has always practiced open-mindedness in the essence of worldliness. Considering that reading a translated text is a requirement for language and literature students it is important to understand the purpose. The purpose of studying literature in translation is that it helps one understand the context of the time period through the characters conflicts,emotions, etc. Therefore when studying translated literature the reader is enabled to connect and understand the time period on an intimate level, through the eyes of a realistic character understanding the different cultural beliefs and values. 

After reading articles on how literature is translated there is an understanding that a novel cannot be 100% accurately translated. The reason for this is that one word may have one literal and cultural representation in one language and a completely different meaning both literal and cultural in another. For example the article talked about the Urdu word; :sharmana. In Urdu the translation means blushing. Culturally the word used describes a girl blushing from happiness. Although when look it at the same term in another culture for example a western image there are many reasons for blushing, out of embarrassment, happiness, etc. Therefore when looking at translated literature it is important to take into perspective the culture it was written for, the target audience as it enables the reader to enhance and understand an authentic translation. 

 Based on this it is important to understand that meanings can be lost. In the context of the novel, Thief and the dogs a meaning that was lost between translation was the name Nur. Arabic speakers are able to identify that Nur is word used to mean light, whereas English speakers were not able to distinctively compare this. Additionally in when the novel was translated to English the audience can see the actions of the characters as over-dramatized where as Arabic speakers who understand the culture see no irregularities or over dramatization.

Studying literature in translation is not only about understanding the direct translation, but the culture it comes from as well. A reader reading a translated text will most commonly not get the same experience as the original novel reader would but they will still be able to get an understanding of the cultural values first hand. That is why I think its so important to read translated literature, its a primary source a way to get a accurate authentic portrayal of a culture, written by the people who are a part of it. 

Practice Paper 1 HL Template

Paper 1 Template

Introduction:

• Info
• Background on the two
• Holistically compare and contrast
• Thesis - Through the use of ACTS text 1 aims to sell a product to a wealthy audience (Great white fleet cruise) written with a colonial lens whereas Text 2 aims to highlight the struggles of squatters in the caribbean to a wealthy audience, both having elements which compare and contrast to understand the viewpoints at different time periods.

ACTS Outline:

Audience Purpose Content Theme Tone Style and Structure:

Purpose:

Text 1:

• To advertise and sell the product of the cruise to the wealthy population of USA

The advertisement is a “summer brochure” therefore main purpose is to attract consumers. Considering the cruise only allows first class passengers it also aims to achieve a certain level of credibility especially using a the name “Great white Fleet”. By doing this they aim to attain a certain market.

Text 2:

• TO provide a different perspective to the wealthy audience. Written for the squatters the article reveal the plights of the islanders and evoke a sense of sympathy for the seeming colonialism occurring in the area  

Audience--Origin:

Text 1:

• The following is an advertisement from around the 1950’s

This is stated because the “The Great White ship” was actually named after a world war 2 battle fleet. Also visually the bottom of the text passengers (potential) are dressed in 1950’s wear (hats, dresses with fringes, etc.)

Text 2:

• Post colonial- published in 2007

Holistically there is a major difference at the two time periods that they were published in where one is published with a colonial lens where the other is a more modern post-colonial lens. The significance at the two articles being published in two completely different time periods is it helps view one perspective in two different lenses.

Audience- Who

Text 1:

• Advertisement is specifically targeted towards the “wealthy”

The advertisement specifically says “Only First Class Passengers carried” on the upper left hand corner.  

• Targets towards American passengers

The advertisement states that the ports are American destinations (New York, Boston, etc). Additionally the destinations are in North America - (Jamaica , Canals, etc. )- places where the common  American tourist would find “exotic”.

Text 2:

• Takes a similar approach to audience to reveal a different perspective

Considering the article is published in 2007 - Panama would be just coming out of a time period where colonial oppressors were present.. Therefore the audience would again be targeted towards a wealthier population who can afford to buy land (developers).

Text 1: Content

• The great white fleet used to be a an American battle fleet Using a credible name (ethos) to sell the product to the consumer. Has information about the cruise selling it at a reasonable price. “reduced rates:
• Advertisement begins with a pictorial Large heading “The great white fleet” to emphasize its superiority.
• Then goes into the information with the heading “Reduced Rates” - Empty claims are additionally used.

Text 2 Content:

The article overall creates an overwhelming sense that the story is being perceived from a post colonial perspective; multiple indicators of this are in the diction “occupy these once-isolated isles”, “threaten to displace hundreds of low-income residents”, “charges of colonialism”, “homes have been burned and been torn to the ground”

• The last sentence “speculators will use any means necessary to get land” creates a Machiavellian sense of the “ends justify the means” and the “ends” mostly consist of profit

• Begins with general background information about the conflict which heavily relies on negative diction such as “shacks” “scavenged” “rough” “cracks”; diction is utilized to convey imagery of the poor, urban setting
• Passage then goes on to describe a particular case study, of Jimenez, once again emphasizing the fact that he earned specifically a measly amount of $1 an hour, a despicable minimum wage; furthers the overall feeling of poverty especially with the alliteration that highlights “Panamas poorest residents”; strong p sound is not light on the ears
• The newspaper article then gives a testimony which appeals to the audience’s sense of pathos as it elicited empathy for a man who seems to deserve rightful ownership of his property
• the statistic of $1 billion dollars greatly contrasts the $1 wage cited earlier in the passage

Text 1: Theme

• The theme is very general - selling a luxurious lifestyle  Theme- Using a certain luxurious lifestyle to sell a product.o want to go on the cruise.

The way the advertisements ment is written is to portray a very posh and classy lifestyle, so the text aims to portray the same theme with using “classy images at the bottom of the advertisement, and language that is very direct. “better than your other costing less”. Very summer theme and vibe resonates through the article to put a sense of carefree and relaxation to hard working first class passengers especially considering the article claims to be inexpensive.

Text 2: Theme

• Title referring to squatters take on developers already sets the theme of a competition between the two groups of people, one pitted against the other

Refers to the competition between squatters and developers, a theme of survival is put across as the squatters are put across in a helpless position. An urgency and desperation is put across as well as the squatters are voiced to be under an oppressive force - developers. .

Text 1: Tone and Mood

• General ambient tone- carefree summer, exclusive

Exclusive tone- clearly only speaking to the target audience. Because the tone is exclusive and seems to only target the higher class, it makes people outside of the target audience “craves” what this advertisement is trying to sell.

Happy and enthusiastic mood- encourages the audience“The Great White Fleet” has summer trips that go from New York to countries such as Panama, Cuba, and Jamaica. It’s targeting a high class that goes on vacations like this usually.  When mentioning the countries such as “Jamaica” and “Panama”, a very foreign and “touristy” tone is used. The countries are placed in a very exotic context- the company is trying to sell these locations.  

Tone- Very accessible for the rich- not easy for the middle and poorer classes

Text 2: Tone and Mood

• Completely different tone from text 1 very contrasting

The tone and mood consist of two main areas.:

• When in regards to the “squatters” we see a tone of indignancy at the situation we have forced them to. Which results in a mood of pity.

• When in regards to the companies of developers and real estate agents, we see a tone of annoyance at their money grubbing actions that have displaced and harmed so many less fortunate.

With a mood of rage from the audience.

This contrasting elements helps set the audience but clearly identify that the message is not the same.

Text 1: Style and Structure

The content is both visual and literary using advertising techniques to again sell the product. When looking at it at least ⅔ of the advertisement is visual:

• The title “The Great White Fleet” is the name of the cruise ship. It uses ethos as it is named after a popular US Navy Battle Fleet. Sense of patriotism.
• Emphasizes the word “White” by making the word itself in white, in contrast to the black background. White=American?
• Very pictorial.
• Uses Ethos by stating the company name at the end of the advertisement, thus making it reliable. It also includes the areas of specific branches of the company for accessibility.
• Image at the bottom- women and men put across very elegant with the women wearing fashionable hats and arched necks. Intention - so audience can visualize themselves in that position.
• Note that Reduced Rates for Summer Cruises is in Bold - Eye catching marketing technique and considering the time is summer the font is emphasized so it appeals to the common consumer.
• “Sailings, every week, from New York, Boston and New Orleans”. This highlights the accessibility of the cruise ships. Furthermore, serving from top capitals only, emphasizes the exclusivity of this cruise.
• “It is cool in… much cooler” - Put themselves in a position of superiority over other vacation packages through use of language.
• Propaganda techniques - “official temperature records prove this” (Empty Claim)
• Locations: Jamaica, Cuba.etc - put across in a very exotic manner - almost the “fishhook” reeling people in after prior claim.
• Ethos - United Fruit Company - Reliable company
• Glittering Generalities
• Vague language - “Extra Large staterooms” - What is the regular size - Again appealing to the audience as it seems this liner is very luxurious.
• Pictorial elements take up ⅔ of the page

Text 2: Style and Structure

Since it is an article has no pictorial elements but rather visual.graphic language to create images the way text 1 visually shows them:

• The style and structure follow that of a newspaper. It uses the following to manipulate the viewpoint of the reader
• Testimonial, Plain Folk, Card Stacking, Source manipulation, and Glittering Generalities
• Lit devices include
• Imagery, weighted diction, Alliteration, hyperbole
• All of this is done to sway the reader towards a more liberal viewpoint

Conclusion:

• Certain elements in text 1 and 2 which compare and contrast
• Highlight that major contrasting moments are the Style and structure, tone mood and a theme
• Highlight audience is main comparing point
• Note that the text contrast more than they compare

Introduction:

The following is a paper 1 analysis of two texts. The first first text is a visual advertisement targeted at a wealthy audience aiming to sell the product of a cruise whereas the other advertisement is an article targeted to the wealthy population but takes a different perspective. As text 1 glorifies a luxurious lifestyle text 2 aims to take the position of aid towards the lower class in this situation the squatters. Additionally both texts use different literary and pictorial elements to further address their point. The reason for establishing the different viewpoints but same audience is to provide a comparison on the viewpoints considering the articles were written almost 70 + years apart from each other. Having the two different lenses colonial and postcolonial aims to show and highlight a location is more than just a vacation destination but also a home to others. Through the use of the different ACTS components Text 1 aims to establish colonial power where as text 2 highlights colonial oppression struggles in order provide multi-perspectives so the reader can establish the development of colonial power over a large time span and understand the after impacts.

Proposal Form WT2

Outline Form – Written Task 2

IB Language & Literature HL

Question	Answer
What is your name?	Devyani Pejathaya
What part of the course does your analysis fall under?	Part 3: Media Bias
What topic is the focus of this task?	Media Bias
What is the title of the text you are using as the basis of your analysis?	5 Little Words from Hillary’s Benghazi Email That Four American Servicemen Never Had a Chance to Say
Highlight the question you are answering.	How and why is a social group represented in a particular way
Thesis statement	Through the use of literary devices, stylistic features and propaganda techniques Kyle Becker a republican supporter aims to highlight and resurface the “Bengazi Crisis” in order to portray and represent the democratic party specifically presidential candidate Hillary Clinton as a “un-suitable president” for the United States of America
Key point 1	Looking at the republican view point- examining how they present the democratic political group. How its presented- through the news channel – highlighting that the article is derived from a Republican broadcasting network (Independent Journal)
Key point 2	Understanding the why – Examining the ideologies of both groups to see where they “clash” Highlighting why this viewpoint has resurfaced because the event initially occurred in 2013 Why this political group is represented in this way:  (Intention – To bring down Hillary Clinton’s Political Campaign)
Key point 3	Use of literary devices: -          Stylistic Features -          Propoganda Techniques Cohesion of the how and why
Key point 4 (optional)