The wind speaks
It calls to me --
shows me places
the eye does not see.
Visions grip me --
take me into forgotten corners
of the earth.
Steel grey skies
stretch endlessly
across the barren expanse
of a heartsore land.
It's own howling
intertwined with a long, plaintive call
from a silhouette
in the darkness
come near me.
Dying weeds
cling desperately
to old, exposed roots
in the cracked soil.
There are countless images, sounds, and textures
it brings to me.
Yet my hands lay at my sides.
My eyes remain closed.
My ears only hear the hum of the radiator
near my side.
The wind speak.
It calls to me --
in perfect harmony
to my beating heart.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Super Sized
by Megan
Selda May Tulip loved shoes. She loved them with an undying passion. Then one day she decided one lovely pair of shoes on her feet was simply not enough. But try as she might, two pairs at once would just not do.
Zelda's feet were rather small. She wore a size six and a half and they were just right. However, when Zelda wandered into the shoe store, something caught her eye. On the top shelf of the sale rack laid two masterpieces. There they stood--a pair of boring, brown flats . . . in a whopping size 13! She rushed over to the sales clerk and they were sold in a blink of an eye.
On her way home she decided she could not wait any longer to put them on. she tood a step in her grand aapparel only to find her feet would not stay inside the openings. "Oh no!" she cried. She tore through the town, flung open the front door, and snatched up a bottle of glue. "Perfect."
Zelda had decided that bigger was always better. Once her feet were secured, she pranced through the house (though her prancing was more like stumbling) and showed her parents. "What on earth are you wearing?" they shouted. "My new shoes." she said simply.
That night Zelda found it difficult to sleep. Because her feet were now pasted inside her shoes, she could no longer lay on her stomach. By the next day Zelda had bags under her eyes and several blisters on her toes and heels--but it was worth it.
Getting dressed also proved to be a challenge. Her jeans would not pull on over her enormous feet. She yanked and she tugged but it was to no avail. In the end, Zelda found a skirt and slid it on with relative ease. "Much better."
As she journeyed down the hall she discovered yet another problem. "Stairs." She whispered. she would not give up now, she was hungry! So Zelda turned sideways and carefully planted her foot across the step. She ascended the treacherous path ever so slowly, but she succeeded.
Throughout her day Zelda faced many more dilemmas, such as walking to school, playing soccer in the gym, and convincing a police officer that she was not drunk when she failed to walk a straight line.
Three weeks later, there was hardly a sentence spoken at school that didn't involve the excitement of the upcoming dance. Questions whirred about: "Who should I ask?" "What dress will match my eyes?" "Is it too late for teeth whitening?" But no bigger question was asked then the footwear challenge. "How large are your shoes going to be?"
There was a new fashion flying about the shoe industry. Very few stores did not engage in the new "Bigger is Better" footwear extravaganza. What a revelation!
On the day of the dance Zelda was ecstatic. she had started a trend that would rule the dance floor! However, when the moment of truth had arrived, she found she could not quite reach her partner. By the time she was home everyone agreed it was certainly a night to remember.
Many months later, big shoes were simply part of society. Then Zelda's father suggested "Hey what if we started enlarging food?" Poor Zelda screamed in surprise. "Oh my father! Why, that would be absurd!"
Selda May Tulip loved shoes. She loved them with an undying passion. Then one day she decided one lovely pair of shoes on her feet was simply not enough. But try as she might, two pairs at once would just not do.
Zelda's feet were rather small. She wore a size six and a half and they were just right. However, when Zelda wandered into the shoe store, something caught her eye. On the top shelf of the sale rack laid two masterpieces. There they stood--a pair of boring, brown flats . . . in a whopping size 13! She rushed over to the sales clerk and they were sold in a blink of an eye.
On her way home she decided she could not wait any longer to put them on. she tood a step in her grand aapparel only to find her feet would not stay inside the openings. "Oh no!" she cried. She tore through the town, flung open the front door, and snatched up a bottle of glue. "Perfect."
Zelda had decided that bigger was always better. Once her feet were secured, she pranced through the house (though her prancing was more like stumbling) and showed her parents. "What on earth are you wearing?" they shouted. "My new shoes." she said simply.
That night Zelda found it difficult to sleep. Because her feet were now pasted inside her shoes, she could no longer lay on her stomach. By the next day Zelda had bags under her eyes and several blisters on her toes and heels--but it was worth it.
Getting dressed also proved to be a challenge. Her jeans would not pull on over her enormous feet. She yanked and she tugged but it was to no avail. In the end, Zelda found a skirt and slid it on with relative ease. "Much better."
As she journeyed down the hall she discovered yet another problem. "Stairs." She whispered. she would not give up now, she was hungry! So Zelda turned sideways and carefully planted her foot across the step. She ascended the treacherous path ever so slowly, but she succeeded.
Throughout her day Zelda faced many more dilemmas, such as walking to school, playing soccer in the gym, and convincing a police officer that she was not drunk when she failed to walk a straight line.
Three weeks later, there was hardly a sentence spoken at school that didn't involve the excitement of the upcoming dance. Questions whirred about: "Who should I ask?" "What dress will match my eyes?" "Is it too late for teeth whitening?" But no bigger question was asked then the footwear challenge. "How large are your shoes going to be?"
There was a new fashion flying about the shoe industry. Very few stores did not engage in the new "Bigger is Better" footwear extravaganza. What a revelation!
On the day of the dance Zelda was ecstatic. she had started a trend that would rule the dance floor! However, when the moment of truth had arrived, she found she could not quite reach her partner. By the time she was home everyone agreed it was certainly a night to remember.
Many months later, big shoes were simply part of society. Then Zelda's father suggested "Hey what if we started enlarging food?" Poor Zelda screamed in surprise. "Oh my father! Why, that would be absurd!"
Monday, June 20, 2011
Strong Bad Essay
 |
| Strongbad |
Strong bad is a guy that answers emails that are cool. The Strong bad essay has pros and cons. I will tell you what I think is ok and what’s not. And remember these are my opinions. I will test his essay against the six traits of good writing that teachers developed.
The first trait is the ideas of his essay. His essay is out of control because of his lack of focus. Most of his essay has random junk. Some of it does not make sense. Like he said and I quote, “it is my intention to play video games.”
The second trait is word choice. The words he chose are very well put. His words are outstanding. And it was promising to see such nice wording. As using complicated words like, "intention."
The third is organization. His is perfect. Strong bad has a great beginning paragraph, and middle and an ending paragraph. So that is a pretty good essay for a guy that loves gaming. Most of his essay sucks. Mine does to.
The forth is voice so that the characters have more than life in the pages of a book. The voice is great. I not so shire that it has good quality. I might have put it differently. His voice told his thoughts.
The fifth, sentence fluency. It was weak with his senseless act of goofing off. As I explain please sit down as you might faint from laughter or badness. He said “It is my entrance to play video games for 12 hours strait.” There are some people that are on the ground. I told you to sit down!!! No won listen!
The sixth trait of good writing is conventions, which include periods and capitals. Strong Bad did an awesome job with these. And fabulas. It was the best thing in the essay. I am happy with its capitals. He had his capitals in the right please
The thing I like is that these were my ideas. And the people who change this and make it better I will be happy.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Jackson's Essay
The Lighting Thief
This book The Lightning Thief is about Greek mythology in modern day America and a young boy fighting his way through monsters and finding out about himself on the way. This book, like many others, follows the Hero's Journey Pattern.
Percy Jackson is the main character of this story. He lives with his mother and evil step-father in the beginning of the book. At first no one ever mentions his birth father which led me to believe that this coincidence might follow the first step of the Hero's Journey Pattern which tells you that the hero was born unnaturally to a virgin mother and some sort of king or "God" father.
The next step to the pattern tells you that the hero is possibly in danger as a young child and is kept safe or protected from evil. Little did Percy know that his best friend Grover was actually a satyr, a mythical goat-human, sent to watch over Percy.
The third step of the Hero's Journey Patter mentions that the hero gets called to adventure. After a series of unusual events, his best friend Grover begins to give him the real story of what is going on in his life and why this is happening to him. Grover then decides to take Percy to Camp Half-blood.
Here is where Percy really finds out who he is and what he is meant to do. Percy now starts realizing his fate and begins to train. He is trained by his former Latin teacher who is actually an immortal centaur and trainer of heroes. Which happens to be the next step of the Hero's Journey Pattern.
The next step to the pattern says that the hero travels to the Underworld and almost dies. Percy does just that, he travels to the Underworld and faces Hades to negotiate his mother's life.
On the way to the Underworld Percy faces Cerberus, the monstrous three headed dog. This part of the story follows the pattern almost exactly, it says he will face a monster, villain, or giant.
The seventh step to the Hero's Journey Pattern tells you that the hero will marry a princess or somehow become king. This step is one that the book doesn't follow exactly . Percy does end up having a little bit of a thing with Annabeth near the end. That is the closest thing I could think of that follows that part of the pattern.
The end result of the Hero's Journey Pattern says that order is restored and something or someone is safe. This is also the end result of this book, Percy restores order between the gods when no one believed he could.
If you are a fan of Greek mythology or would just like to see the Hero's Journey Pattern in story form I would highly recommend this book. In my opinion this is the best hero book I have read since Hercules, you might even find some things are similar between the two.
This book The Lightning Thief is about Greek mythology in modern day America and a young boy fighting his way through monsters and finding out about himself on the way. This book, like many others, follows the Hero's Journey Pattern.
Percy Jackson is the main character of this story. He lives with his mother and evil step-father in the beginning of the book. At first no one ever mentions his birth father which led me to believe that this coincidence might follow the first step of the Hero's Journey Pattern which tells you that the hero was born unnaturally to a virgin mother and some sort of king or "God" father.
The next step to the pattern tells you that the hero is possibly in danger as a young child and is kept safe or protected from evil. Little did Percy know that his best friend Grover was actually a satyr, a mythical goat-human, sent to watch over Percy.
The third step of the Hero's Journey Patter mentions that the hero gets called to adventure. After a series of unusual events, his best friend Grover begins to give him the real story of what is going on in his life and why this is happening to him. Grover then decides to take Percy to Camp Half-blood.
Here is where Percy really finds out who he is and what he is meant to do. Percy now starts realizing his fate and begins to train. He is trained by his former Latin teacher who is actually an immortal centaur and trainer of heroes. Which happens to be the next step of the Hero's Journey Pattern.
The next step to the pattern says that the hero travels to the Underworld and almost dies. Percy does just that, he travels to the Underworld and faces Hades to negotiate his mother's life.
On the way to the Underworld Percy faces Cerberus, the monstrous three headed dog. This part of the story follows the pattern almost exactly, it says he will face a monster, villain, or giant.
The seventh step to the Hero's Journey Pattern tells you that the hero will marry a princess or somehow become king. This step is one that the book doesn't follow exactly . Percy does end up having a little bit of a thing with Annabeth near the end. That is the closest thing I could think of that follows that part of the pattern.
The end result of the Hero's Journey Pattern says that order is restored and something or someone is safe. This is also the end result of this book, Percy restores order between the gods when no one believed he could.
If you are a fan of Greek mythology or would just like to see the Hero's Journey Pattern in story form I would highly recommend this book. In my opinion this is the best hero book I have read since Hercules, you might even find some things are similar between the two.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
The Lightning Thief --Essay by Riley
A Hero’s Journey Pattern is something people use to follow long in a certain story. It helps the reader follow and go along with what’s going on, such as events that are happening, people to see, place’s to go, exciting things that are happening. I think the Lightening Thief does follow the Hero’s Journey Pattern cause each of the eight steps have something to do with what’s going on in the story. For each event that is happened try and compare that event to the Journey step. I think this story kind of goes along with Harry Potter. It follows some of the same events and the story seems some what the same. The themes seem somewhat similar also. I think fictional books are the ones that are easier to compare with the Journey Potter cause that is made up of stuff more along the lines of the pattern. That’s why Harry Potter and the Lightening Thief are good for the Journey Pattern cause, there are fictional books. The Journey Pattern can’t just be any story though. It can only follow along with certain types of story’s, Fictional story’s that have events that can match up or relate to what the Journey Pattern is asking about. The Journey Pattern can go along with a good portion of super hero movies or books. Two of which are Harry Potter and the Lightening Thief. But along with those two I think superman is a part of the Hero’s Journey. Some of the eight steps which are,
1. Hero’s mother is a royal virgin. Father is king.
2. Danger when young, hidden for safekeeping.
3. Gets a call to adventure.
4. Is trained by a special hero/trainer.
5. Makes a Journey to the underworld, almost dies.
6. Fights villain, giant dragon, or wild beast.
7. Marries Princess or in someway become king.
8. Something found out, someone is safe, great prize.
These here are the eight steps of the Hero’s Journey Pattern. They can follow with the story of superman also, I think some of the Marvel Superhero’s could fit in with the Hero’s Journey Pattern also. Even though their fictional story’s but somewhat realistic they can follow. A few movies like Hercules and Star wars are also good to fit the pattern as well. Hercules is probably the best out of them all because it can follow all eight steps. Journey steps have something to do or match up with something in the story of Hercules. Star wars is good to but I don’t know if it can match up with all eight steps. If you were to match up Star wars with the steps of the Hero’s Journey steps I think it would be possible.
1. Hero’s mother is a royal virgin. Father is king.
2. Danger when young, hidden for safekeeping.
3. Gets a call to adventure.
4. Is trained by a special hero/trainer.
5. Makes a Journey to the underworld, almost dies.
6. Fights villain, giant dragon, or wild beast.
7. Marries Princess or in someway become king.
8. Something found out, someone is safe, great prize.
These here are the eight steps of the Hero’s Journey Pattern. They can follow with the story of superman also, I think some of the Marvel Superhero’s could fit in with the Hero’s Journey Pattern also. Even though their fictional story’s but somewhat realistic they can follow. A few movies like Hercules and Star wars are also good to fit the pattern as well. Hercules is probably the best out of them all because it can follow all eight steps. Journey steps have something to do or match up with something in the story of Hercules. Star wars is good to but I don’t know if it can match up with all eight steps. If you were to match up Star wars with the steps of the Hero’s Journey steps I think it would be possible.
The Journey (Joey)
The hero's journey consists of eight steps, for the most part almost all hero stories follow this pattern. I'm going to be writing about Rick Riordan's, The Lightening Thief. Its about a young boy named Percy Jackson who is constantly getting kicked out of schools on numerous occasions. Percy happens to be the son of Zeus, who is the god of the sky. He is also the most powerful god. Percy's dad is Zeus and his mom is a human, which makes him a half blood. There is a big war going on between the gods at Mount Olympus that Percy must try and bring to peace. Percy is sent out by Zeus to find his stolen property him self, he is given only one special weapon from the gods to help him on his way. Him and his friends only have ten days to receive the stolen goods and return them to Zeus. While doing all of this very non human business he must also come to peace with his father who just abandoned him. I don't know about you but I know it would be hard to help out my father if he has never been there for me. Percy encounters many obstacles a long his journey, such as gods getting in his way of doing what he needs to do, and gods causing things to try and stop him.
Now, here's the eight steps of a hero's journey...
1. Hero's mother is a royal virgin, father is a king.
Percy's story follows this because his mother is human and his father is a king so it was a god conception.
2. In danger when very young, hidden for safe keeping, or raised by another person.
Percy us is raised by his mom and his step dad, hidden from Zeus.
3. Gets a call to adventure.
Percy gets called out by his dad to help him with numerous things.
4. Is trained by a special hero trainer or is given a special (sometimes) magical weapon.
Percy went to a half blood hero training school and was given a pen that opened up into a magical sword from his father.
5. Makes a journey to the Underworld, almost dies.
Percy goes to the Underworld, which is ruled by Hades, the god if the Underworld.
6. Fights a villain, giant, dragon or wild beast.
Percy fights Medussa, which is a monster with snakes for hair and if you look into her eyes you will turn to stone.
7. Marries a princess, or in some way becomes a king.
Percy ends up falling in love with his friend Annabeth, who went on the journey with him.
8.End result of adventures is that order is restored, something is found out, someone is safe or there is a great prize.
Percy receives the stolen property for Zeus successfully, ends the war and he made it out safely.
This story relates to me because I have been through a lot of stuff. Getting in trouble with drugs and alcohol, so I've been through similar things as Percy. Such as going to places i don't wanna go, moving around alot and getting kicked out of school. Also my dad abandoned me like Zeus did to Percy. Percy has been very brave and courageous on his journey. I would probably just give up if i were him. H he went through alot of hard things, like fighting against the gods. I related this to me so you can see that hero doesn't have to be someone who has magical powers. It just has to be someone with courage, strength and faith.
Now, here's the eight steps of a hero's journey...
1. Hero's mother is a royal virgin, father is a king.
Percy's story follows this because his mother is human and his father is a king so it was a god conception.
2. In danger when very young, hidden for safe keeping, or raised by another person.
Percy us is raised by his mom and his step dad, hidden from Zeus.
3. Gets a call to adventure.
Percy gets called out by his dad to help him with numerous things.
4. Is trained by a special hero trainer or is given a special (sometimes) magical weapon.
Percy went to a half blood hero training school and was given a pen that opened up into a magical sword from his father.
5. Makes a journey to the Underworld, almost dies.
Percy goes to the Underworld, which is ruled by Hades, the god if the Underworld.
6. Fights a villain, giant, dragon or wild beast.
Percy fights Medussa, which is a monster with snakes for hair and if you look into her eyes you will turn to stone.
7. Marries a princess, or in some way becomes a king.
Percy ends up falling in love with his friend Annabeth, who went on the journey with him.
8.End result of adventures is that order is restored, something is found out, someone is safe or there is a great prize.
Percy receives the stolen property for Zeus successfully, ends the war and he made it out safely.
This story relates to me because I have been through a lot of stuff. Getting in trouble with drugs and alcohol, so I've been through similar things as Percy. Such as going to places i don't wanna go, moving around alot and getting kicked out of school. Also my dad abandoned me like Zeus did to Percy. Percy has been very brave and courageous on his journey. I would probably just give up if i were him. H he went through alot of hard things, like fighting against the gods. I related this to me so you can see that hero doesn't have to be someone who has magical powers. It just has to be someone with courage, strength and faith.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Lightning Thief--Essay by Cameron Curtis
My English class started the book Lightning Thief and just barely finished the novel written by Rick Riordan. In many or almost all hero stories the hero follows a pattern that can be applied to modern and old tales ranging from Greek mythology to Star Wars. In the hero's journey the hero receives a call to adventure after being hidden away by a family or having a cover for who they are or the powers they possess. Beginning their quest they face obstacles they must overcome to complete their journey.
The Lightning Thief starts with Percy a twelve year old boy who is in fact a half blood " half human half god"
his father is Poseidon "god of the sea " he lives with his mother a perfectly normal woman who works in a candy shop in Manhattan N.Y with Percy's step father named Gabe. Percy is completely unaware he is a half blood has been put into and kicked out of many boarding school's living the normal life of a boy. This is basically a cover up to keep him safe from mythological creatures and gods. This relates to the first step in the hero's journey pattern. "his mother being a mortal and his father being the god"Poseidon". He has been hidden away for his safety this relates to step two of the hero's journey pattern. "step one relates by his father being a god and his mother a mortal " "the second step relates by him being hidden away for his protection."
In Percy's Boarding school he doesn't have many friends but one named Grover. Most of the people in his school make fun of Grover because he has a limp and antsy personality .Grover turns out to be a satyr "half man half goat" who has been keeping a close eye on Percy for his protection also to find out if Percy is a half blood. Percy's Latin teacher Mr. Brunner also known as Chiron the trainer of hero's is a centaur " half man half horse" in disguise as a human in a wheelchair. As they watch Percy they are unsure of him being a half blood until Percy goes on a Field trip to a history museum. Mrs. Dodds his math teacher transforms into a furry "a female creature with wings enforcers of the gods "and attacks Percy , but by some unknown force Percy wards her of with a blast of water causing her to vaporize. Chiron and Grover now know of Percy's power and reveal themselves later in the story at Half Blood Hill " A camp for hero training ". After his training he is called on a quest to retrieve Zues's stolen master bolt . This relates to step three and step four in the hero's journey pattern "step three relates to his training" "step for relates to the hero's call to adventure" as he is trained by Chiron at Half Blood Hill He receives a magical sword named Riptide to help him on his quest .
Throughout his journey he encounters many mythological creatures and must battle the monsters in the attempt to gain entry into the realm of Hades "god of the underworld" "relating to step five of the hero's journey pattern traveling to the underworld ". when Percy arrives after his efforts he learns that Hades did not take the master bolt. As he continues his journey Percy discovers the truth behind the thievery of the master bolt. A dispute has risen between the gods because of the thievery and may cause an outbreak between the gods.
Ares " the god of war" was hypnotized by Kronos " the Titan lord " to try and cause the gods to create the biggest war in western civilization , Percy fights Ares and triumphs to reveal the truth behind the thievery. This epic battle relates to the sixth step in the hero's journey pattern.
In the end he travels to mount Olympus " home of the gods' and returns Zeus's master bolt resolving the outrage of the gods and stopping the possibility of war. When Percy returns from his quest to Half Blood Hill he is treated as a hero which relates to step seven and eight " step seven usually revolves around a princess or in some way the hero becoming a king" eight being " restoring order and saving the day".
I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy a creative book and an easy read. The Lightning Thief follows the hero's journey pattern in well and gives an slight understanding of Greek mythology. If you are considering reading this book I would recommend that you have a vague idea of Greek mythology to relate and follow the character's of the book.
Rick Riordan wrote a series to the lightning thief if you have or haven't read this book yet , and for those who have read it and enjoyed it i would recommend the series.
Cameron Curtis
The Lightning Thief starts with Percy a twelve year old boy who is in fact a half blood " half human half god"
his father is Poseidon "god of the sea " he lives with his mother a perfectly normal woman who works in a candy shop in Manhattan N.Y with Percy's step father named Gabe. Percy is completely unaware he is a half blood has been put into and kicked out of many boarding school's living the normal life of a boy. This is basically a cover up to keep him safe from mythological creatures and gods. This relates to the first step in the hero's journey pattern. "his mother being a mortal and his father being the god"Poseidon". He has been hidden away for his safety this relates to step two of the hero's journey pattern. "step one relates by his father being a god and his mother a mortal " "the second step relates by him being hidden away for his protection."
In Percy's Boarding school he doesn't have many friends but one named Grover. Most of the people in his school make fun of Grover because he has a limp and antsy personality .Grover turns out to be a satyr "half man half goat" who has been keeping a close eye on Percy for his protection also to find out if Percy is a half blood. Percy's Latin teacher Mr. Brunner also known as Chiron the trainer of hero's is a centaur " half man half horse" in disguise as a human in a wheelchair. As they watch Percy they are unsure of him being a half blood until Percy goes on a Field trip to a history museum. Mrs. Dodds his math teacher transforms into a furry "a female creature with wings enforcers of the gods "and attacks Percy , but by some unknown force Percy wards her of with a blast of water causing her to vaporize. Chiron and Grover now know of Percy's power and reveal themselves later in the story at Half Blood Hill " A camp for hero training ". After his training he is called on a quest to retrieve Zues's stolen master bolt . This relates to step three and step four in the hero's journey pattern "step three relates to his training" "step for relates to the hero's call to adventure" as he is trained by Chiron at Half Blood Hill He receives a magical sword named Riptide to help him on his quest .
Throughout his journey he encounters many mythological creatures and must battle the monsters in the attempt to gain entry into the realm of Hades "god of the underworld" "relating to step five of the hero's journey pattern traveling to the underworld ". when Percy arrives after his efforts he learns that Hades did not take the master bolt. As he continues his journey Percy discovers the truth behind the thievery of the master bolt. A dispute has risen between the gods because of the thievery and may cause an outbreak between the gods.
Ares " the god of war" was hypnotized by Kronos " the Titan lord " to try and cause the gods to create the biggest war in western civilization , Percy fights Ares and triumphs to reveal the truth behind the thievery. This epic battle relates to the sixth step in the hero's journey pattern.
In the end he travels to mount Olympus " home of the gods' and returns Zeus's master bolt resolving the outrage of the gods and stopping the possibility of war. When Percy returns from his quest to Half Blood Hill he is treated as a hero which relates to step seven and eight " step seven usually revolves around a princess or in some way the hero becoming a king" eight being " restoring order and saving the day".
I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy a creative book and an easy read. The Lightning Thief follows the hero's journey pattern in well and gives an slight understanding of Greek mythology. If you are considering reading this book I would recommend that you have a vague idea of Greek mythology to relate and follow the character's of the book.
Rick Riordan wrote a series to the lightning thief if you have or haven't read this book yet , and for those who have read it and enjoyed it i would recommend the series.
Cameron Curtis
The Hero's Journey--Essay by Tyson
Tyson
The Hero's Journey is just a series of steps that makes a hero an inspiring role model. when you here stories about multiple conflicts or just one major crisis and someone standing up to battle against evil and wrong doing, it usually has most of the steps in The Hero's Journey pattern.When people write stories about a hero that has the characteristics of being strong, courageous, etc. it shows all of the standards that the author refers to as heroic, and in a way perfect. It also shows the what the author defines a role model, a hero, and generally a figure that should be followed.
In the book Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson is a Demi-god and the son of Poseidon the Greek god of the sea. Percy goes through obstacles and multiple steps in the pattern to prove himself a hero and in the end he is referred to as a hero because he followed the steps.
The first step that i noticed in the book that Percy went through is when Percy had an irregular birth and a very royal father. When he finds out that he is the son of the sea god Poseidon, automatically you understand that their is a lot to be expected of him and that he is a very important figure.
Another step that he went through at the beginning of the book was that even though he didn't know it, he was the son of a god and had to be "hidden" in a way so that he could be safe. The quote" so that he could be safe", already foreshadows on what danger he might have to face, being a Demi-god. He would constantly be in danger because of his godlike scent, so his mother (knowing what he is) found a "overly scented" human/ husband so that Percy's scent could be covered and he could be safe.
Something that is not in the Hero's Journey Pattern that I believe should be, is, in just about every hero's story, they usually notice certain irregular gifts or some power that sets the character apart from being a normal human being. For an example Hercules had unbelievable strength, and in the movie Harry Potter, Harry could talk to snakes and make unbelievable things happen. But in Percy's case, he was amazing in water and could interact with it in impossible ways.
When audiences notice a power that the "soon-to-be" hero has, they expect more from the character and it builds suspense for the audience because they want to see how they will put their power to use. The reader also start to wonder if, since they have the obvious gift, if their is going to be anymore to be uncovered.
Besides the heroes having a gift, they also have multiple odd events that happens to them before they realize what they are. For instance, Harry Potter made multiple things happen just by thinking about it, Hercules found his medallion with a god symbol on it and fights demons when he was little, and Percy ran into the Minotaur.
The next step is when Percy gets "called on an adventure". His mother takes him to Camp Half Blood to make him realize what he is and his potential. When this happens in a hero's story, it is usually when the realize his gifts and puts themselves to the test and rises above and beyond to their highest standards (or tries to).
Usually, when a hero gets called to adventure they usually have a special trainer. Hercules had Philiptites, Harry Potter had Dumbledore, and Superman had his real father. With Percy, he has multiple trainers but his main trainer was Chiron. Most of the time, I have notices that the trainers that are chosen to teach the heroes usually have a reputation and a record for training famous fighters and heroes or used to be one. For example, Philiptites (before Hercules) trained multiple famous heroes like Achilles and Theseus (or so it says in the movie) and plays a very important part in the story line. Chiron known as a very wise Centaur and was somewhat favored by the gods.
Another part of getting called to adventure is fighting a villain or conflict/crisis. This is usually where the climax happens and is when the amateur proves himself a true hero and saves the day. With Percy, he gets called on a quest and goes through multiple obstacles to retrieve the Master Bolt and Helm of Darkness. His main two obstacles are how he faces his uncle Ares and battles epically. He also has a conflict at the end that pulls the rest of the story together when he faces Luke, a descendant of the Titan King Kronos.
The next step can happen in more than one part of the story. It is when the hero almost dies or goes to the underworld. This part is usually very dramatic to build suspense for the audience again and make them wonder how the hero will bounce back and redeem them self. Perseus both almost dies multiple times and purposely goes to the underworld to face his uncle Lord Hades.
The last two steps are (in my opinion) one step in the hero's journey. It is when piece is restored and the hero becomes royal in some way or famous and/or gets the girl of his dreams. In this story Percy doesn't have a dream girl but after he uncovers the truth and returns the Master Bolt and Helm he proves himself a true hero and everything ends in piece.
So, I think that the hero pattern is very common in stories and doesn't need to be followed/taught. The Lightning Thief is a great example of the Hero's Journey Pattern and I recommend that you take my opinion and read it!
The Hero's Journey is just a series of steps that makes a hero an inspiring role model. when you here stories about multiple conflicts or just one major crisis and someone standing up to battle against evil and wrong doing, it usually has most of the steps in The Hero's Journey pattern.When people write stories about a hero that has the characteristics of being strong, courageous, etc. it shows all of the standards that the author refers to as heroic, and in a way perfect. It also shows the what the author defines a role model, a hero, and generally a figure that should be followed.
In the book Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson is a Demi-god and the son of Poseidon the Greek god of the sea. Percy goes through obstacles and multiple steps in the pattern to prove himself a hero and in the end he is referred to as a hero because he followed the steps.
The first step that i noticed in the book that Percy went through is when Percy had an irregular birth and a very royal father. When he finds out that he is the son of the sea god Poseidon, automatically you understand that their is a lot to be expected of him and that he is a very important figure.
Another step that he went through at the beginning of the book was that even though he didn't know it, he was the son of a god and had to be "hidden" in a way so that he could be safe. The quote" so that he could be safe", already foreshadows on what danger he might have to face, being a Demi-god. He would constantly be in danger because of his godlike scent, so his mother (knowing what he is) found a "overly scented" human/ husband so that Percy's scent could be covered and he could be safe.
Something that is not in the Hero's Journey Pattern that I believe should be, is, in just about every hero's story, they usually notice certain irregular gifts or some power that sets the character apart from being a normal human being. For an example Hercules had unbelievable strength, and in the movie Harry Potter, Harry could talk to snakes and make unbelievable things happen. But in Percy's case, he was amazing in water and could interact with it in impossible ways.
When audiences notice a power that the "soon-to-be" hero has, they expect more from the character and it builds suspense for the audience because they want to see how they will put their power to use. The reader also start to wonder if, since they have the obvious gift, if their is going to be anymore to be uncovered.
Besides the heroes having a gift, they also have multiple odd events that happens to them before they realize what they are. For instance, Harry Potter made multiple things happen just by thinking about it, Hercules found his medallion with a god symbol on it and fights demons when he was little, and Percy ran into the Minotaur.
The next step is when Percy gets "called on an adventure". His mother takes him to Camp Half Blood to make him realize what he is and his potential. When this happens in a hero's story, it is usually when the realize his gifts and puts themselves to the test and rises above and beyond to their highest standards (or tries to).
Usually, when a hero gets called to adventure they usually have a special trainer. Hercules had Philiptites, Harry Potter had Dumbledore, and Superman had his real father. With Percy, he has multiple trainers but his main trainer was Chiron. Most of the time, I have notices that the trainers that are chosen to teach the heroes usually have a reputation and a record for training famous fighters and heroes or used to be one. For example, Philiptites (before Hercules) trained multiple famous heroes like Achilles and Theseus (or so it says in the movie) and plays a very important part in the story line. Chiron known as a very wise Centaur and was somewhat favored by the gods.
Another part of getting called to adventure is fighting a villain or conflict/crisis. This is usually where the climax happens and is when the amateur proves himself a true hero and saves the day. With Percy, he gets called on a quest and goes through multiple obstacles to retrieve the Master Bolt and Helm of Darkness. His main two obstacles are how he faces his uncle Ares and battles epically. He also has a conflict at the end that pulls the rest of the story together when he faces Luke, a descendant of the Titan King Kronos.
The next step can happen in more than one part of the story. It is when the hero almost dies or goes to the underworld. This part is usually very dramatic to build suspense for the audience again and make them wonder how the hero will bounce back and redeem them self. Perseus both almost dies multiple times and purposely goes to the underworld to face his uncle Lord Hades.
The last two steps are (in my opinion) one step in the hero's journey. It is when piece is restored and the hero becomes royal in some way or famous and/or gets the girl of his dreams. In this story Percy doesn't have a dream girl but after he uncovers the truth and returns the Master Bolt and Helm he proves himself a true hero and everything ends in piece.
So, I think that the hero pattern is very common in stories and doesn't need to be followed/taught. The Lightning Thief is a great example of the Hero's Journey Pattern and I recommend that you take my opinion and read it!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
J.C.'s Hero's Journey Pattern Analysis
What is the Hero’s Journey Pattern?
By: J.C.
The Hero’s Journey Pattern, is the way many ancient stories go. There are eight steps to this pattern and they are:
1. Hero’s mother is of royal decent or a virgin, and the hero’s birth is unusual and possibly a gods conception.
2. Hero is in danger at young age, and hidden away, or raised by another family.
3. Hero gets a call to adventure.
4. Hero is trained by a special trainer and receives a special weapon, ability, or skill.
5. Hero makes a journey to the underworld and almost dies.
6. Hero fights a villain, giant, himself (self conflict), or any magical creature.
7. Marries a princess or somehow becomes exalted.
8. End result of the story is order is restored, something of importance is found out, someone is saved, or there is a great reward.
I think the book The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, is a great example of the Hero’s Journey Pattern. Percy Jackson, The main character of the story is a troubled twelve-year-old boy who lives with him mom and step father in an apartment in New York City. Percy, who is a half-blood which means the same thing as a demigod (half human, half god). So Percy was hidden at a young age from things that could be a danger to him. After a series of unusual events happen, Percy is accused of a holy crime by the gods, he then goes to a camp for kids like him called Camp Half Blood. There he is taught to be a hero by the trainer of heroes. When Percy sets out on his quest he receives a special item. Percy journeys across the country to Los Angeles, California, where the entrance to the Underworld is. Percy then fights a god to help restore order. Once the god is defeated, Percy journeys to the six-hundredth floor of the Empire State Building to return what was stolen. The item is returned and order is restored. I recommend this book to the teenage reader who likes adventure and mystery. Personally I found the book a bit cheesy but all in all it was a good read.
In the book, Percy fulfils the eight steps in the following ways.
STEP 1. Hero is born to a royal virgin, possible god conception.
Example. Percy's mom is mortal and his dad is a Greek god.
STEP 2. Hero is in danger at a very young age and hidden away.
Example. Percy's mom marries Percy's step father and is sent off to boarding schools to keep him safe.
STEP 3. Hero gets his call to adventure or quest.
Example. Percy gets sent away to a summer camp where he talks to an oracle that tells him what he must do.
STEP 4. Hero is trained by a hero trainer and acquires a special weapon, power, or skill to help on the hero's quest.
Example. Percy is trained by the hero trainer Chiron at Camp Half Blood and is given a special sword to help Percy with his journey.
STEP 5. Hero makes journey to the Underworld, almost dies, but then makes it out alive.
Example. Percy and his friends set off to find the Underworld in L.A. California, they find it after going through many obstacles as they make their way through, and make their way out.
STEP 6. Hero fights villain, giant, dragon, self, or any other kind of creature.
Example. Percy fights a long battle with a god and defeats him with his special powers.
STEP 7. Hero marries a princess or becomes exalted in some way.
Example. Percy returns what was stolen from the gods and gains their respect.
STEP 8. Hero restores order, something of importance is found out, somebody is saved, or hero receives a great reward.
Example. Percy returns to camp as a hero, and is respected by his peers and elders. The war between the gods ends, Percy's mother is saved from a terrible fate, and Percy is saved from his step father.
I believe the Hero’s Journey can be applied to anybodies life, some things may not fit, but chances are that you will find a way to apply them to your life in the future. The Heroes Journey is simple to apply, things don't have to be perfect to apply them, if anything somehow resembles to the pattern, and it is just as good as if it fits to a tee. If you apply these things to your life, it will make your life more interesting!!!
By: J.C.
The Hero’s Journey Pattern, is the way many ancient stories go. There are eight steps to this pattern and they are:
1. Hero’s mother is of royal decent or a virgin, and the hero’s birth is unusual and possibly a gods conception.
2. Hero is in danger at young age, and hidden away, or raised by another family.
3. Hero gets a call to adventure.
4. Hero is trained by a special trainer and receives a special weapon, ability, or skill.
5. Hero makes a journey to the underworld and almost dies.
6. Hero fights a villain, giant, himself (self conflict), or any magical creature.
7. Marries a princess or somehow becomes exalted.
8. End result of the story is order is restored, something of importance is found out, someone is saved, or there is a great reward.
I think the book The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, is a great example of the Hero’s Journey Pattern. Percy Jackson, The main character of the story is a troubled twelve-year-old boy who lives with him mom and step father in an apartment in New York City. Percy, who is a half-blood which means the same thing as a demigod (half human, half god). So Percy was hidden at a young age from things that could be a danger to him. After a series of unusual events happen, Percy is accused of a holy crime by the gods, he then goes to a camp for kids like him called Camp Half Blood. There he is taught to be a hero by the trainer of heroes. When Percy sets out on his quest he receives a special item. Percy journeys across the country to Los Angeles, California, where the entrance to the Underworld is. Percy then fights a god to help restore order. Once the god is defeated, Percy journeys to the six-hundredth floor of the Empire State Building to return what was stolen. The item is returned and order is restored. I recommend this book to the teenage reader who likes adventure and mystery. Personally I found the book a bit cheesy but all in all it was a good read.
In the book, Percy fulfils the eight steps in the following ways.
STEP 1. Hero is born to a royal virgin, possible god conception.
Example. Percy's mom is mortal and his dad is a Greek god.
STEP 2. Hero is in danger at a very young age and hidden away.
Example. Percy's mom marries Percy's step father and is sent off to boarding schools to keep him safe.
STEP 3. Hero gets his call to adventure or quest.
Example. Percy gets sent away to a summer camp where he talks to an oracle that tells him what he must do.
STEP 4. Hero is trained by a hero trainer and acquires a special weapon, power, or skill to help on the hero's quest.
Example. Percy is trained by the hero trainer Chiron at Camp Half Blood and is given a special sword to help Percy with his journey.
STEP 5. Hero makes journey to the Underworld, almost dies, but then makes it out alive.
Example. Percy and his friends set off to find the Underworld in L.A. California, they find it after going through many obstacles as they make their way through, and make their way out.
STEP 6. Hero fights villain, giant, dragon, self, or any other kind of creature.
Example. Percy fights a long battle with a god and defeats him with his special powers.
STEP 7. Hero marries a princess or becomes exalted in some way.
Example. Percy returns what was stolen from the gods and gains their respect.
STEP 8. Hero restores order, something of importance is found out, somebody is saved, or hero receives a great reward.
Example. Percy returns to camp as a hero, and is respected by his peers and elders. The war between the gods ends, Percy's mother is saved from a terrible fate, and Percy is saved from his step father.
I believe the Hero’s Journey can be applied to anybodies life, some things may not fit, but chances are that you will find a way to apply them to your life in the future. The Heroes Journey is simple to apply, things don't have to be perfect to apply them, if anything somehow resembles to the pattern, and it is just as good as if it fits to a tee. If you apply these things to your life, it will make your life more interesting!!!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Nashville Parthenon!
In November, 2008, I took a short trip to Nashville, Tennessee to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with my sister and brother-in-law. They surprised me with a tourist stop at the Nashville Parthenon, which I didn't even know existed at the time! Here are some great pictures of the exterior taken by my brother-in-law during that trip, and a few interior photos taken by my father in 2010.
As we drove up, I was amazed at how big the Parthenon was! It wasn't until I witnessed this scene that I believed my sister's explanation that the Nashville version really is a built-to-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Greece.
Text taken from a plaque located outside the front entrance:
The type of facade sculpture work at the top of the temple's exterior is called a "frieze." The frieze work on the Parthenon tells the story of Athena's glorious battle with Poseidon.
Above front entrance: Here, close-up, you can see Athena on the left, Poseidon on the right; spear against trident!
Above the back entrance of the temple, another frieze tells the end of the battle story. Zeus supervises a victory ceremony from his throne, while Poseidon cowers behind him. To his left are the seductive Aphrodite, and low-throned Hades. In the center, Nike, the winged goddess of victory, bestows upon Athena the victor's crown of laurel leaves.
Below the frieze are a border of small facades, most displaying Centaurs engaged in their usual drunken pleasures: nymph-wooing, or violence.
Athena is supported on the right by several gods. First helmet-wearing Ares, god of war. Artemis with her hunter's bow is trying to get a better look. Hera sits comfortably, accompanied by her symbol, the peacock. Behind her are Hermes (winged cap and sandals, caduceus in hand), and Apollo, holding his lyre.
A smaller frieze, displayed in the temple's interior shows the same image.
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| Casual football and soccer games outside the Parthenon |
As we drove up, I was amazed at how big the Parthenon was! It wasn't until I witnessed this scene that I believed my sister's explanation that the Nashville version really is a built-to-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Greece.
Text taken from a plaque located outside the front entrance:
The world's only replica of the Parthenon, epitome of Greek culture, was the central building at Tennessee's Centennial Exposition, May 1 through October 31, 1897. The original temple, dedicated to Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom, occupied the most sacred area in ancient Greece, the crest of the Acropolis, a hill overlooking Athens.
"The reception of the Centennial--it was the first exposition in the nation to be both an artistic and financial success--and public response to the Parthenon indicated that, although it was made of temporary materials, it should be reconstructed on a permanent basis. Construction was started in 1921, the exterior completed in 1925, but due to the lack of funds, it was not until May 20, 1931, that the Parthenon as it stands today was opened to the public.
The type of facade sculpture work at the top of the temple's exterior is called a "frieze." The frieze work on the Parthenon tells the story of Athena's glorious battle with Poseidon.
Above front entrance: Here, close-up, you can see Athena on the left, Poseidon on the right; spear against trident!
Below the frieze are a border of small facades, most displaying Centaurs engaged in their usual drunken pleasures: nymph-wooing, or violence.
The most impressive of all is the statue of Athena inside the temple.
 Athena holds the goddess of victory, Nike, in her right hand, a spear and shield to her left.
Text taken from a plaque inside the temple:
1. The Serpent. Thought by some to represent Ericthonios, a legendary, deified kind of early Athens, the snake is thought to symbolize the people of Athens themselves, who, like this creturs of the earth rose "from the soil of Attica."
2. The Shield. Athena's shield protects the snake, indicating her role in defending the people of Athens from harm.
3. The Helmet. The three crests of Athena's helmet are supported by mythological creatures: on the left and right a pegasus, and in the center a sphynx (half woman, half lion)"
4. The Aegis. the armored breast plate Athena wears on her shoulders is said to have magic powers. Given to her by Zeus, the Aegis makes Athena impervious to her enemies' weapons. In the center of the breast plate is the Medusa's head, giver by Perseus in return for Athena's help in killing Medusa.
5. The Sandals. Athena's sandals are decorated with images depicting the slaying of Centaurs.
6. The Frieze. The golden frieze across the front of the marble base depicts the birth of Pandora, whose name means "all gifts." The figures in order from left to right are Helios, Hermes, Hera, Zeus, Nike, Dionysus, the three Horai, Pandora, Hephaistos, Athena, Poseidon, Artemis, Apollo, Ares, Demeter, Hestia, Eros, Aphrodite, and Selene."
Upon leaving the Parthenon, my sister and brother-in-law informed me that there was a very different park nearby filled with allusions to Greek mythology and other fairy tales. I never would have imagined this:
But there it was: in the center of the park, a huge cartoon covered leviathan! I thought for a moment that I was on an episode of Sesame Street.
The entire monster was covered with little mosaic tiles depicting crude, but charming versions of fabulous legendary characters from classic children's literature, popular movies, and old legends. Here are a couple of allusions to Greek Mythology:
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Monday, August 9, 2010
Animal Farm Chapter 5
The farm is starting to divide itself and take different sides and sooner or later there will be a little war between Snowball and Napoleon but on the other hand they might learn to agree with each other and work together. ZacRee
Animal Farm text to world connection
The text reminds me of the riots that were in L.A. The riots were caused by black people being mistreated by the police. The same thing is happening here, but its humans mistreating animals. and the animals are looking to get revenge.
Zach
Zach
Animal Farm (McKay's blog post)
In chapter 5 the animals remind me of the U.S government. How people try to get the president out of office. Also Napoleon reminds me of Stalin and Snowball reminds me of Trotsky from history. The reason why is because Stalin uses threats to become a leader.
Evan's Post (Animal Farm)
I think that chapter 5 relates to what happened in Russia with Stalin and how he kicked Trotsky out of being a leader. Napoleon took over with his dogs. He had trained dogs to attack Snowball so he could have power.
Evan
Evan
Friday, August 6, 2010
Wishful thinking.
Chapter 3, Animal Farm by George Orwell
The animals seen sure of themselves that this has been the right thing to do. It's unfortunate that they are being feared into the society they wish to create. If thy would accept the life they have as farm animals they wouldn't have so many issues. But their attitudes are clearly persuaded by the pigs.
Mikhayla :)
The animals seen sure of themselves that this has been the right thing to do. It's unfortunate that they are being feared into the society they wish to create. If thy would accept the life they have as farm animals they wouldn't have so many issues. But their attitudes are clearly persuaded by the pigs.
Mikhayla :)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Ideal Society? Animal Farm by George Orwell
"After getting rid of farmer Jones, the animals set up the ideal society."
Hah! If that were true, we would have implemented those thoughts much sooner than now. We would've been in a pure communist community from the 50's. To be honest with you, I think it would be great if humans could handle that kind of society.
Billy
Hah! If that were true, we would have implemented those thoughts much sooner than now. We would've been in a pure communist community from the 50's. To be honest with you, I think it would be great if humans could handle that kind of society.
Billy
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
ANIMAL Farm Ch. 1
I think this book will be interesting. The Pig, Old Major, wants to overthrow the humans because of the horrible treatment of the animal. They are barely fed anything, and the work for nothing. I can compare this chapter mostly to the beginning of communism with Carl Marx. Old Major is suggesting they get rid of the humans and start a society where everyone is treated equally and everything is shared equally.
Taylor
Taylor
Martin's Post on Animal Farm by George Orwell. Chapter 1.
In this chapter, I am proud of the animals for finally having their own revolution. I believe any animal actually has the ability or the brains to have a revolution against their owners. I am also proud that the animals took initiative in keeping the farm organized and having their seven commandments posted.
This can relate to life like the revolutions that have happened because people were treated badly...
This can relate to life like the revolutions that have happened because people were treated badly...
George Orwell's Animal Farm Ch. 1
In the book Animal Farm the animals try to rebel on Mr. Jones. It reminds me of someone who treats you bad your whole life even when your doing what your supposed to be doing, or when you doing it right and they don't give you credit for what you've done. That's what i think he is saying to the society, that there are cruel people out there who are only in it for themselves and don't care about anyone else.
Mckay
Mckay
George Orwell's Animal Farm Ch. 1
in chapter one i think the author is trying to show how lazy humans are, and how we take advantage of other animals to survive. he is showing how we don't rely on ourselves to live but we use animals selfishly to get what we need to live with providing the bare minimum for the animals to survive.
james
james
chapter 1 response Animal Farm
I think the author is trying to explain the injustice the animals are going through and it very well could be connected to people as well. When Old Major was giving his speech he explained how they all work so hard and produce so much and that they dont get rewarded but tiny scraps they can barely live off of. He explains about the work conditions and about how man wouldnt be able to live without their help. I also believe the author has a very good point about life and what not. Basically what he's trying to say is that if your being treated unfair and injust then you must fight for your equal freedom because nobody should be treated like a lesser being. My mental response to this chapter was probably the same as anybody elses. I say this because I agreed with the animals and I also believed the author had a very valid point about what to do when your being treated unfair.
--Anthony L.
--Anthony L.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Animal Farm: Getting Started
Dear Students,
This blog allows you to:
- enter your deep thoughts
- teach each other new vocabulary
- comment on each other's ideas
Animal Farm Ch. 1 What were your emotional and mental reactions to this chapter? What do you think the author is trying to teach us about life? What is he saying about society? Make text to text, text to self, and/or text to world connections. (1/2 page of writing)
- Text to Text = What other stories, books, movies, or songs does this story remind you of?
- Text to Self = What part of your life can you connect to this book?
- Text to World = Does this remind you of anything in history or in the news?
--Karen
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