Expressing feelings or simply making a point is something some people stuggle with. They do not realize that this can be done by writing.Anyone can write and they can choose to keep it to themself until they are sure it is how they want it. Writing is something that can improve as one gets more experience. My writing process has been changing since the start of this semester. I have been so used to writing in a specific format that I forgot different topics sometimes require a different perspective. When I wrote my first essay I wrote an outline with the basic introduction with the thesis, body paragraphs and then a conclusion paragraph. As the semester progressed I found that writing didn’t have to be exactly like the outline that I made beforehand. That was just a rough guide to get me started. I got more used to not writing my introduction first. I would write some of the body paragraph and then go back to the introduction. Sometimes I would even write the conclusion before I wrote the topic sentence and introduction. I found that this helped me develop my feelings and thoughts about what I was writing, so my thesis was accurate and fully supported my essay’s makeup. In the future I would like to improve my writing by writing with stronger transitional sentences and paragraphs. That is something that I struggle with and that would make my work even better.
Revising my work would be another way I could improve my writing skills. Revision is not something that I have had too much experience with. This semester especially I learned a lot about revision and how helpful it can be with writing a better paper. I liked how I was able to write a rough draft, turn it in and get responses about the good and bad aspects of my writing. I found it very helpful and it made me feel much more confident with my final product. I revise my work by finding the things that are unclear and reworking them to make them more understandable. I check to make sure that my thesis statement is supported by the essay. The biggest part of revision for me is looking at what my peers and others who read my paper have to say. Many times the areas that I question when writing, get pointed out as confusing or unnecessary by my peers. That helps guide my decision of whether or not to leave something in or change what I already have. I take this approach because I know that my audience will have similar thoughts as my peers and proof-readers. I want my essay to be as clear and interesting as possible.
When I receive peer response or comments from an instructor, I try to look at the paper as if I hadn’t written it. I try to see from their point of view. Once I do this, I see things in a different light sometimes. I then make the changes needed to make my work better. If I don’t agree with their responses after taking this approach, I try to come up with a way that I can interest them or make them understand the purpose of this specific part. I want my audience to feel connected with what I am presenting to them in my essay. I don’t want them to question what I am talking about. If they can’t do that, then I don’t feel that I have successfully done my job as the author of the essay.
At the beginning of the semester, my strongest mode of communication was writing. I think that throughout the semester that I have grown in what I thought was my strongest category. I did this by learning how to successfully use peer response and revise my work. I also believe that I am now better at visually communicating. I learned that I can use minimum amounts of words to promote an action, feeling, or idea. For example, the advertisement project when doing the culture jamming advertisement project. By displaying a simple picture with few amounts of dialogue, I was able to share my idea with someone about what I thought an advertisement was saying about its product. I also got to share what I thought the advertisement should be saying about the product. I found that this kind of communication is actually very powerful.
I enjoyed writing the Critical Personal Place Narrative Essay the most. I liked being able to be descriptive about a place that I have so many feelings about. I love to share my positive experiences with people. I find it challenging yet fulfilling to only have the use of words on paper in doing this. I enjoy using description in my essay. It is fun to try and paint a picture in someone else’s mind while describing a place and the activities that go on there. I think I also enjoyed this one the most because I also enjoyed reading other people’s essays about a personal place. I am most interested by essays with that descriptive nature.I think this is because not only do I enjoy writing in this manner, I like to be the reader and imagine the scene that the writer is setting. I like to use my imagination and descriptive essays seem to hold my attention the most.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Written Communication
The purpose of written communication is to share something with the audience whether it be a feeling, place or an idea. This type of communication can present to the reader, the author’s perspective of certain categories. It can create an understanding between the author and the reader. We often learn things from reading an essay. We learn about the topic the author presents and sometimes we learn the feelings the author has towards the topic. The reader is also allowed to create their own opinion of the topic. Sometimes the written communication helps them form that opinion. This written communication sample was created to share a place and the events that occur in this place with the reader. It is full of description and was written to create an image in the reader’s mind as though they are actually experiencing this place.
Whispering Pines
Imagine you are going on a week- long vacation in a different state nine hours away. Yet, this place does not seem to only be in another state it seems that you enter into a completely different world. A world where time does not exist, except for the rising and setting of the sun. Here you are oblivious to all other life except that of those with whom you share this same place. The anticipation of arriving there is barely manageable.
The journey begins with getting up entirely too early in the morning. Dad finishes loading all of our suitcases and then sits in the truck drinking his morning Pepsi, waiting for everyone else. Once we finally get all five members of my family into the truck we take off. Even though I have been going to Whispering Pines Lodge in Wisconsin for over ten years, I still get the same feeling of excitement.
We drive to meet our cousins in Dubuque where I switch vehicles so I can be with my cousin Spencer. Then we cross the Mississippi on a bridge that seems to take miles because we are holding our breath. We’ve always had the tradition of holding our breath while crossing the bridge. I don’t remember how it ever started. We finally enter the wonderful state of Wisconsin and breathe again. You wouldn’t really know you were in a different state unless you saw the sign that says, “Welcome to Wisconsin.” The land is still kind of hilly like Dubuque and there are cornfields and farms tucked back away from the road yet still visible. Spencer and I usually pass the first hour or two talking about our year and the exciting things that have happened. We only get to see each other once a year so it is kind of a catch up on each other’s lives time. When we get tired of talking we put a movie in and the towns of Southern Wisconsin whisk past us.
Normally someone in our party has to go to the bathroom after a good four or five hours so we stop at a Culvers Restaurant, get a bite to eat and use the bathroom. When we were really little we stopped at Culvers and Papa Bud bought us the most enormous cookies I have ever seen. It is tradition to stop there to eat now. Once everyone has gotten something in their stomach, we pile back into our vehicles and start off again. We travel what seems like an eternity and the anticipation grows stronger as the miles pass. Every once in a while I stop watching our movie and look out the window to check for signs that we are making progress. I get a chill of excitement when I look out the window now. I can’t remember the first time I ever noticed, but the gravel on the shoulder of the highway goes from white to this yellowish color. When this happens it means we are getting closer. A couple more hours down the road I begin to look at the trees. There is a certain type of tree that grows in Northern Wisconsin that has a skinny trunk at the bottom and no branches until the very top part of the tree. We call these “Wisconsin trees.” It is a sign that we are getting closer yet to our special place.
We stop at a cheese factory called “Mullin’s Cheese.” They have remodeled this factory since we started coming here for vacation. There used to be a window where you could watch as they squeezed all the cheese curds together. Then they would go on a belt to a huge tub. Spencer and I used to love to watch the process. The cheese factory is the last big landmark signifying the closeness of our destination. After another hour passes we cross Eagle River. It is the last town we have to go through until we are finally at the resort!
The road begins to wind and curve. My stomach begins to flip-flop because I know we are so close. The road suddenly seems to become encased by tall pine trees. The sun flashes in thin bars on the road as it squeezes through what trees it can. Finally we come to the sign that says, “Whispering Pines,” with an arrow pointing in the right direction. Your eyes follow the sign down a shady paved road completely drowning in pine trees. Now I can hardly wait to see that first glimpse of the lodge, and the calmness of the lake. The road turns and narrows and then the sign for the lodge appears. It reads, “Welcome to Whispering Pine Lodge.”
The first sight of the lodge is the most exhilarating feeling. It is a huge log cabin with dark forest green shutters that frame all of the little windows and the big one downstairs. A big stone chimney peaks from the top of the roof. This lodge used to be an old logging camp that the lumberjacks would stay in during the winter months. It is such a neat building. I can hardly wait to jump out and run inside the lodge. As I step out of the car the little red gravel beneath my feet makes a crunching noise as it supports my weight. Inside of the lodge there is a huge living room when you first walk in the door. There is a doorway which leads to the kitchen and dining room. I lug my bags up the curving stairs and into my room. Each room has a name printed on a piece of driftwood above the door. Spencer and I always share the room called, Fisherman’s Pier.
After we throw our suitcases into our room, Spencer and I run for the lake. It is the most breathtaking and relaxing view after a whole year’s time. I take a deep breath in and smell the lake water and pine tree smell. The lake is surrounded by evergreen and birch trees. Some of the other cabins around the lake are somewhat visible. The docks stretch out into the water as if inviting us to take a running leap off the end. We roll up our pants and wade into the cool water. The instant we touch it, we become part of the lake. It is like a magnet that is pulling us in. We run inside and throw on our swimming suits.
Together we run to the beginning of the dock. The sap from the pine trees makes the sand stick to the bottoms of our feet. We take a deep breath and run down the swimming dock, the wooden boards creaking as we take each step and JUMP! Splash! The temperature of the water always knocks the breath right out of me. It is so chilly! We do not waste one minute at Whispering Pines. Our mothers somehow lure us out of the water every night, always with the promise of a good meal. Night falls and we settle down in bed knowing the whole cycle will repeat the next day. As the sun rises up over the trees it shimmers brightly on the lake. The morning fog rolls off of the surface of the lake and the loon’s low call beckons us once again to the water’s edge.
The journey begins with getting up entirely too early in the morning. Dad finishes loading all of our suitcases and then sits in the truck drinking his morning Pepsi, waiting for everyone else. Once we finally get all five members of my family into the truck we take off. Even though I have been going to Whispering Pines Lodge in Wisconsin for over ten years, I still get the same feeling of excitement.
We drive to meet our cousins in Dubuque where I switch vehicles so I can be with my cousin Spencer. Then we cross the Mississippi on a bridge that seems to take miles because we are holding our breath. We’ve always had the tradition of holding our breath while crossing the bridge. I don’t remember how it ever started. We finally enter the wonderful state of Wisconsin and breathe again. You wouldn’t really know you were in a different state unless you saw the sign that says, “Welcome to Wisconsin.” The land is still kind of hilly like Dubuque and there are cornfields and farms tucked back away from the road yet still visible. Spencer and I usually pass the first hour or two talking about our year and the exciting things that have happened. We only get to see each other once a year so it is kind of a catch up on each other’s lives time. When we get tired of talking we put a movie in and the towns of Southern Wisconsin whisk past us.
Normally someone in our party has to go to the bathroom after a good four or five hours so we stop at a Culvers Restaurant, get a bite to eat and use the bathroom. When we were really little we stopped at Culvers and Papa Bud bought us the most enormous cookies I have ever seen. It is tradition to stop there to eat now. Once everyone has gotten something in their stomach, we pile back into our vehicles and start off again. We travel what seems like an eternity and the anticipation grows stronger as the miles pass. Every once in a while I stop watching our movie and look out the window to check for signs that we are making progress. I get a chill of excitement when I look out the window now. I can’t remember the first time I ever noticed, but the gravel on the shoulder of the highway goes from white to this yellowish color. When this happens it means we are getting closer. A couple more hours down the road I begin to look at the trees. There is a certain type of tree that grows in Northern Wisconsin that has a skinny trunk at the bottom and no branches until the very top part of the tree. We call these “Wisconsin trees.” It is a sign that we are getting closer yet to our special place.
We stop at a cheese factory called “Mullin’s Cheese.” They have remodeled this factory since we started coming here for vacation. There used to be a window where you could watch as they squeezed all the cheese curds together. Then they would go on a belt to a huge tub. Spencer and I used to love to watch the process. The cheese factory is the last big landmark signifying the closeness of our destination. After another hour passes we cross Eagle River. It is the last town we have to go through until we are finally at the resort!
The road begins to wind and curve. My stomach begins to flip-flop because I know we are so close. The road suddenly seems to become encased by tall pine trees. The sun flashes in thin bars on the road as it squeezes through what trees it can. Finally we come to the sign that says, “Whispering Pines,” with an arrow pointing in the right direction. Your eyes follow the sign down a shady paved road completely drowning in pine trees. Now I can hardly wait to see that first glimpse of the lodge, and the calmness of the lake. The road turns and narrows and then the sign for the lodge appears. It reads, “Welcome to Whispering Pine Lodge.”
The first sight of the lodge is the most exhilarating feeling. It is a huge log cabin with dark forest green shutters that frame all of the little windows and the big one downstairs. A big stone chimney peaks from the top of the roof. This lodge used to be an old logging camp that the lumberjacks would stay in during the winter months. It is such a neat building. I can hardly wait to jump out and run inside the lodge. As I step out of the car the little red gravel beneath my feet makes a crunching noise as it supports my weight. Inside of the lodge there is a huge living room when you first walk in the door. There is a doorway which leads to the kitchen and dining room. I lug my bags up the curving stairs and into my room. Each room has a name printed on a piece of driftwood above the door. Spencer and I always share the room called, Fisherman’s Pier.
After we throw our suitcases into our room, Spencer and I run for the lake. It is the most breathtaking and relaxing view after a whole year’s time. I take a deep breath in and smell the lake water and pine tree smell. The lake is surrounded by evergreen and birch trees. Some of the other cabins around the lake are somewhat visible. The docks stretch out into the water as if inviting us to take a running leap off the end. We roll up our pants and wade into the cool water. The instant we touch it, we become part of the lake. It is like a magnet that is pulling us in. We run inside and throw on our swimming suits.
Together we run to the beginning of the dock. The sap from the pine trees makes the sand stick to the bottoms of our feet. We take a deep breath and run down the swimming dock, the wooden boards creaking as we take each step and JUMP! Splash! The temperature of the water always knocks the breath right out of me. It is so chilly! We do not waste one minute at Whispering Pines. Our mothers somehow lure us out of the water every night, always with the promise of a good meal. Night falls and we settle down in bed knowing the whole cycle will repeat the next day. As the sun rises up over the trees it shimmers brightly on the lake. The morning fog rolls off of the surface of the lake and the loon’s low call beckons us once again to the water’s edge.
Oral Communication
Working in groups has never been an easy thing for me. I have always felt uneasy about working with others because I was afraid that I would be the only one working. I developed that fear from earlier experiences where I end up doing all the work while the rest of my group rides on my shoulders. This semester I learned to put trust in other people. I found it easier to work within a group because people were willing to share their ideas. They contributed within the discussions and volunteered to do a segment of the work. This made things much easier than in the past where I would find myself having to ask the other group members what they thought and getting no reply. I am more comfortable sharing my ideas because they are actually considered by the group. Working in a group has also taught me to take into consideration other people’s thoughts and ideas. I am so used to being the one who has to come up with everything and when I would ask for people’s opinions, they didn’t care because the job was getting done. This semester has definitely given me a more positive outlook on working within a group.
Visual Communication Introductory
The purpose of this visual communication style was to point out the different objectives that businesses use when advertising. It was also to show people that when analyzing something, sometimes things that weren’t intended to be in the message are found. People interpret things in different ways sometimes. During this project we were able to express our thoughts about an advertisement. It is interesting to see how many ideas one can come up with. There are so many different perspectives that can be taken on various advertisements. It is also interesting to see if you share the same mind set as someone else. The topic of my visual communication sample is the analysis of an advertisement. In this project, I chose an advertisement found in a public place and analyzed what I thought the ad was trying to portray to its viewers, as well as the meaning behind the company.
Visual Communicaton
How do you Live your Life?
Do your clothes offer you a life of independence and freedom? Careful scrutiny of advertisements might lead one to think so. Some retailers use incentives and lifestyles to lure a consumer into purchasing their product. I found an advertisement for, American Eagle Outfitters, a brand name of clothing. I chose to analyze it and discovered much more than I would have expected. When an advertisement is analyzed, one discovers that there is much more message present than the few words printed in the margin. Subtle use of color, text, props, and subjects, along with their arrangements create thoughts and images in a consumer’s mind. These are a few things that will create a larger horizon for thought and analysis.
American Eagle is a small store for young people and sometimes for those who want to feel young. They sell shoes, purses, jewelry, cologne, perfume, and clothing for both men and women. This specific American Eagle advertisement shows a college aged girl of about nineteen crossing a road with books cradled in her arms. She is looking over her shoulder which suggests that she may be going to class. She is dressed in American Eagle clothing, and is sporting an American Eagle purse. The bottom of the ad reads, “LIVE YOUR LIFE,” the slogan of American Eagle. The symbol of this store is also incorporated into the ad to creatively display the emblem in public places such as a shopping mall. People will hopefully begin to associate the emblem and the name of the brand with the products.
I found this advertisement at the mall where there are many people who are shopping. Many times this ad will be seen in places where teens choose to spend their free time. Who wouldn’t want their advertisement on display where the audience they are trying to target is having a positive experience? A mall is a busy place and many people walk by a variety of stores every minute. Ads have to be catchy and appealing so that people who are rushing to get their shopping done will notice them. Isn’t it true that when a store’s ads in the window catch a person’s eye that person is more interested in and willing to visit those establishments? This advertisement is displayed not only in the store’s window, but also on shopping bags, throughout the store, on gift cards, on fliers and of course, on the actual products themselves. There are many potential buyers in a mall environment, making it the perfect place for advertisements.
Catching the attention of their audience of young people, creating an experience, or eliciting memory of an experience, and promoting their product are the main focus of this American Eagle advertisement. They do this by featuring only their brand of clothing and accessories on the model. They support their slogan of “Live your Life” by having their model participating in an activity that most everyone in their target audience has done. In this case the activity is going to school. Going to school is a common activity, yet as we continue to analyze this advertisement we become aware that based on her age she may be going to a college class. The details behind the model show the tree’s leaves are turning orange, which indicates the season of fall when classes begin. Being in this situation makes the experience rare because not everyone goes to college. The concept of being a college student also portrays the idea that the girl is on her own. Therefore, the purpose of this ad might be to point out that when you wear these clothes, you experience things that not every person has.
Another common life event is the simple act of crossing a street. This is depicted in the ad showing the model “living her life.” As a child, being allowed to cross the street unattended is a milestone. One must be grown up to do so without holding someone’s hand. Showing the girl crossing the street may be symbolic of her independence. Having the model cross the street may be symbolic of her independence. The fact that she doesn’t seem to be watching where she’s going also gives the impression that she is somewhat daring. Maybe she is looking back at her past and crossing that “road” into adulthood or freedom. A consumer might well be persuaded that wearing this brand of clothing will allow them to reach this grown up status in their own life. The model is carrying a stack of books, one entitled, Creating Excellence. This could be another case where American Eagle is attempting to make an association tying their clothing to feelings of intelligence and excellence.
Logos are another item that have a great deal of impact in advertisements. The symbol of the eagle used by American Eagle clothing, has some sort of message behind it. Eagles are independent and strong birds soaring high in the sky, rising above everything below. Our country uses the eagle as a symbol of a free country. The association of the eagle with the slogan, “Living Your Life” is a great way to tie in the appealing sense of living life with freedom. The fact that the model is outside in the elements is another way that American Eagle gives the targeted consumer a sense of freedom and reality.
American Eagle’s advertisement helps form a relationship between their products and the consumer. It expresses reality and emotional ties that their audience can relate to. Their advertising reaches beyond the fact that clothing is to cover the body and keep it warm. In the ad, clothing and accessories introduce the idea that clothing is a way to express oneself, to live in a certain way. Their tactics work!! Doesn’t the way American Eagle portrays clothing sound much more exciting and enjoyable than just the basic buying of clothes to cover the body? Tying emotions to a product makes the advertisement successful. American Eagle has accomplished their goal of making the consumer see their product in a new light.
Do your clothes offer you a life of independence and freedom? Careful scrutiny of advertisements might lead one to think so. Some retailers use incentives and lifestyles to lure a consumer into purchasing their product. I found an advertisement for, American Eagle Outfitters, a brand name of clothing. I chose to analyze it and discovered much more than I would have expected. When an advertisement is analyzed, one discovers that there is much more message present than the few words printed in the margin. Subtle use of color, text, props, and subjects, along with their arrangements create thoughts and images in a consumer’s mind. These are a few things that will create a larger horizon for thought and analysis.
American Eagle is a small store for young people and sometimes for those who want to feel young. They sell shoes, purses, jewelry, cologne, perfume, and clothing for both men and women. This specific American Eagle advertisement shows a college aged girl of about nineteen crossing a road with books cradled in her arms. She is looking over her shoulder which suggests that she may be going to class. She is dressed in American Eagle clothing, and is sporting an American Eagle purse. The bottom of the ad reads, “LIVE YOUR LIFE,” the slogan of American Eagle. The symbol of this store is also incorporated into the ad to creatively display the emblem in public places such as a shopping mall. People will hopefully begin to associate the emblem and the name of the brand with the products.
I found this advertisement at the mall where there are many people who are shopping. Many times this ad will be seen in places where teens choose to spend their free time. Who wouldn’t want their advertisement on display where the audience they are trying to target is having a positive experience? A mall is a busy place and many people walk by a variety of stores every minute. Ads have to be catchy and appealing so that people who are rushing to get their shopping done will notice them. Isn’t it true that when a store’s ads in the window catch a person’s eye that person is more interested in and willing to visit those establishments? This advertisement is displayed not only in the store’s window, but also on shopping bags, throughout the store, on gift cards, on fliers and of course, on the actual products themselves. There are many potential buyers in a mall environment, making it the perfect place for advertisements.
Catching the attention of their audience of young people, creating an experience, or eliciting memory of an experience, and promoting their product are the main focus of this American Eagle advertisement. They do this by featuring only their brand of clothing and accessories on the model. They support their slogan of “Live your Life” by having their model participating in an activity that most everyone in their target audience has done. In this case the activity is going to school. Going to school is a common activity, yet as we continue to analyze this advertisement we become aware that based on her age she may be going to a college class. The details behind the model show the tree’s leaves are turning orange, which indicates the season of fall when classes begin. Being in this situation makes the experience rare because not everyone goes to college. The concept of being a college student also portrays the idea that the girl is on her own. Therefore, the purpose of this ad might be to point out that when you wear these clothes, you experience things that not every person has.
Another common life event is the simple act of crossing a street. This is depicted in the ad showing the model “living her life.” As a child, being allowed to cross the street unattended is a milestone. One must be grown up to do so without holding someone’s hand. Showing the girl crossing the street may be symbolic of her independence. Having the model cross the street may be symbolic of her independence. The fact that she doesn’t seem to be watching where she’s going also gives the impression that she is somewhat daring. Maybe she is looking back at her past and crossing that “road” into adulthood or freedom. A consumer might well be persuaded that wearing this brand of clothing will allow them to reach this grown up status in their own life. The model is carrying a stack of books, one entitled, Creating Excellence. This could be another case where American Eagle is attempting to make an association tying their clothing to feelings of intelligence and excellence.
Logos are another item that have a great deal of impact in advertisements. The symbol of the eagle used by American Eagle clothing, has some sort of message behind it. Eagles are independent and strong birds soaring high in the sky, rising above everything below. Our country uses the eagle as a symbol of a free country. The association of the eagle with the slogan, “Living Your Life” is a great way to tie in the appealing sense of living life with freedom. The fact that the model is outside in the elements is another way that American Eagle gives the targeted consumer a sense of freedom and reality.
American Eagle’s advertisement helps form a relationship between their products and the consumer. It expresses reality and emotional ties that their audience can relate to. Their advertising reaches beyond the fact that clothing is to cover the body and keep it warm. In the ad, clothing and accessories introduce the idea that clothing is a way to express oneself, to live in a certain way. Their tactics work!! Doesn’t the way American Eagle portrays clothing sound much more exciting and enjoyable than just the basic buying of clothes to cover the body? Tying emotions to a product makes the advertisement successful. American Eagle has accomplished their goal of making the consumer see their product in a new light.
Electronic Communication
This semester included several various types of electronic communication. At some times I found this somewhat convenient. Other times when I was having internet complications, I found that I wasn’t the fondest of electronic communication. Being able to communicate electronically is a powerful thing. Citizens need to consider when communicating this way that their words may not convey the emotion behind their wording. It is much easier to hear and see emotion when someone is talking to you in person than it is to read it on a computer screen. People need to be aware of this so they can use great care when dealing with an important situation where feelings behind the words may be key to their message. Using electronics such as a power point presentation is a more advanced way to communicate with an audience. This allows the person presenting a topic to use not only themselves talking as a means of communication, but it allows them to incorporate pictures or other visual aids that may enhance their objective. One must realize that appropriate balance is necessary when using this kind of communication. When working with power point for example, being effective means that the presenter limits the amount of wording on the power point, and limiting the visual aids. Sometimes power points aren’t as effective as they could be because the audience is overwhelmed by the amount of things that are happening on each slide. Therefore, using electronics to communicate can be extremely convenient and efficient as long as it is used properly.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
"The Obligation to Endure" Text Analysis
In today’s world we have many different ways to control pests and insects that inhabit our fields. New chemicals are being produced and tested every day. Are these chemicals being tested for the effects they could have on our environment though? In, “Silent Spring” an excerpt from Rachel Carson’s, “The Obligation to Endure,” Carson suggests that the pesticides and insecticides we have are harmful to more than just the environment.
Rachel Carson is an author who is passionate about the environment and concerned about the well being of its inhabitants. This is apparent because of the way in which she writes. For example she states, “Can anyone believe it is possible to lay down such a barrage of poisons on the surface of the earth without making it unfit for all life?” Carson is well educated about the uses of chemicals and possible outcomes that occur from the use of pesticides. The audience of her article is targeted toward those who take part in the use of chemicals an example would be a farmer. This article could also be targeted toward those people who are concerned about our relationship with the environment and the things we do to protect it. This could be a potential area for those interested in the improvement of the environment to find and argue about actions that would benefit their cause.
Carson makes the point that people are not aware some of the chemicals that are being used have a negative affect not only on the pests they are trying to get rid of, but also harmless insects and other animals. Carson explains that eventually people are negatively affected also. Therefore not only is the safety of wildlife at risk, people are in danger. The comment, “they should not be called “insecticides,” but “biocides,” give the reader a good idea about Carson’s opinion on the use of these chemicals.
Carson’s primary appeal used is from a logical perspective. She presents the problem or idea she has about the topic and then backs it up with supporting evidence and fact. She explains the negative affect chemicals of today have and provides a possible alternative to the problem trying to be solved. Carson seems well informed about what she is arguing against. She takes the time to let her readers know the specific process that could improve the agricultural aspect of this problem in a safe way. She really connects with her audience because she doesn’t assume that they know everything about this topic. She explains what the problem is, why it is a problem, and how it could be improved or fixed. The appeal she uses works because she makes her point and provides concrete reasoning and logic.
Carson, Rachel. “The Obligation to Endure.” The Informed Argument.
Eds. Robert K. Miller and Robert P. Yagelski. 6th ed. Boston,
MA: Wadsworth, 2004. 420-6.
Rachel Carson is an author who is passionate about the environment and concerned about the well being of its inhabitants. This is apparent because of the way in which she writes. For example she states, “Can anyone believe it is possible to lay down such a barrage of poisons on the surface of the earth without making it unfit for all life?” Carson is well educated about the uses of chemicals and possible outcomes that occur from the use of pesticides. The audience of her article is targeted toward those who take part in the use of chemicals an example would be a farmer. This article could also be targeted toward those people who are concerned about our relationship with the environment and the things we do to protect it. This could be a potential area for those interested in the improvement of the environment to find and argue about actions that would benefit their cause.
Carson makes the point that people are not aware some of the chemicals that are being used have a negative affect not only on the pests they are trying to get rid of, but also harmless insects and other animals. Carson explains that eventually people are negatively affected also. Therefore not only is the safety of wildlife at risk, people are in danger. The comment, “they should not be called “insecticides,” but “biocides,” give the reader a good idea about Carson’s opinion on the use of these chemicals.
Carson’s primary appeal used is from a logical perspective. She presents the problem or idea she has about the topic and then backs it up with supporting evidence and fact. She explains the negative affect chemicals of today have and provides a possible alternative to the problem trying to be solved. Carson seems well informed about what she is arguing against. She takes the time to let her readers know the specific process that could improve the agricultural aspect of this problem in a safe way. She really connects with her audience because she doesn’t assume that they know everything about this topic. She explains what the problem is, why it is a problem, and how it could be improved or fixed. The appeal she uses works because she makes her point and provides concrete reasoning and logic.
Carson, Rachel. “The Obligation to Endure.” The Informed Argument.
Eds. Robert K. Miller and Robert P. Yagelski. 6th ed. Boston,
MA: Wadsworth, 2004. 420-6.
"Creative Anti-Smoking Advertisements" Commentary
The advertisement I am going to be looking at is a picture of a cowboy in a desolate desert looking plain. He is standing by his horse that is apparently dead because he is lying on the ground. The ad simply says, “Second hand smoke kills.” The cowboy’s body language leads me to believe that he is thinking to himself, “Well shoot, what I do now?”
I believe this advertisement has a somewhat humorous side yet it also conveys a very strong message. The message is that second hand smoke kills. The effects could even kill your best friend or companion. The audience of this advertisement is mainly focused toward those who smoke. It is trying to inform the audience that the smoking behavior of others could kill those around them. If a smoker was viewing this it would give them the idea that they could be harming others by smoking around them. This advertisement could also be targeted towards those people who don’t smoke. Targeting that audience would have the purpose of warning those who do not smoke, what could happen if they are around a smoker. The context could be taken from the cowboy’s point of view, (the smoker) or it could be viewed from the horse’s point of view, (the non-smoker.)
This advertisement gives the viewer a sense of the place they could expect to be in if they did smoke. The cowboy is alone in this uninhabited place and now he doesn’t even have a companion. Not to mention it looks like he will be walking anywhere he plans to go. This could be a way for the advertising company to say, if you smoke, be prepared to be left out and alone because your habits may harm someone innocent. The advertisement also makes it seem as though now there’s no hope. He is by himself, there doesn’t seem to be civilization anywhere around, and it looks as though it might be hot. A person may also interpret this advertisement as second hand smoke can knock you off your feet. That would be more directed towards those who don’t necessarily smoke, but that are around second hand smoke. However you look at it, this advertisement does have a very strong message.
“Creative Anti-smoking Advertisements” Mirage studio 7. 27 Nov. 2007 <: blog.miragestudio7.com/.../>.
I believe this advertisement has a somewhat humorous side yet it also conveys a very strong message. The message is that second hand smoke kills. The effects could even kill your best friend or companion. The audience of this advertisement is mainly focused toward those who smoke. It is trying to inform the audience that the smoking behavior of others could kill those around them. If a smoker was viewing this it would give them the idea that they could be harming others by smoking around them. This advertisement could also be targeted towards those people who don’t smoke. Targeting that audience would have the purpose of warning those who do not smoke, what could happen if they are around a smoker. The context could be taken from the cowboy’s point of view, (the smoker) or it could be viewed from the horse’s point of view, (the non-smoker.)
This advertisement gives the viewer a sense of the place they could expect to be in if they did smoke. The cowboy is alone in this uninhabited place and now he doesn’t even have a companion. Not to mention it looks like he will be walking anywhere he plans to go. This could be a way for the advertising company to say, if you smoke, be prepared to be left out and alone because your habits may harm someone innocent. The advertisement also makes it seem as though now there’s no hope. He is by himself, there doesn’t seem to be civilization anywhere around, and it looks as though it might be hot. A person may also interpret this advertisement as second hand smoke can knock you off your feet. That would be more directed towards those who don’t necessarily smoke, but that are around second hand smoke. However you look at it, this advertisement does have a very strong message.
“Creative Anti-smoking Advertisements” Mirage studio 7. 27 Nov. 2007 <: blog.miragestudio7.com/.../>.
"Before He Cheats" Song Commentary
The song “Before He Cheats,” by Carrie Underwood is a song about a girl who has been cheated on by her boyfriend. She sings the song as if she was speaking to you and describing the kind of person that her ex is. The place this song uses is a conversation about destroying a truck. She sings about how she basically destroys his truck in order to get revenge. She gives the listener the idea that his truck is very nice. The whole time she is vandalizing his truck she imagines that he’s probably off hitting on some random girl at a bar. She is very angry about the whole situation and she takes out all her anger by destroying his property.
I really like this song because it is fun to sing along with and it has the potential to relieve stress. It is a way for someone in the same situation to live vicariously through the words of her song. Not many people would actually beat on someone else’s truck and slash the tires to show how disgusted they were with another person. By describing the action of destroying her ex boyfriend’s truck, she is relieving her anger and getting revenge. The tone she uses to begin her song starts out as, I don’t care who he’s with or what he’s doing attitude. She is singing softer and a little less concentrated during this part. She is trying to sound more separated and uncaring at this point. This mood changes when she starts to sing about vandalizing his truck. The music gets louder and her voice is a little more aggressive and cold. Carrie’s song starts at a lower tone, imagining what he’s doing. She sings with a certain attitude that sounds as if she’s fed up with him. As the song progresses she get a little louder, especially after the point where she tauntingly sings, “Oh but he don’t know….” Then she gets loudest and most aggressive when she starts describing what she does to his truck. Carrie finally makes the point that after she’s done all of this to his truck, which apparently means a lot to him, he’ll think twice before he cheats on someone. The last words of her song also assure listeners that she is completely done with their relationship. She sings, “the next time that he cheats, oh you know it won’t be on me.” This just gives the listener a sense of closure for their relationship. If he still thinks there could be something between them, he won’t think that after he sees his truck.
Song writer: Roman White
Some Hearts Artista Nashville
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Song title: “Before He Cheats”
I really like this song because it is fun to sing along with and it has the potential to relieve stress. It is a way for someone in the same situation to live vicariously through the words of her song. Not many people would actually beat on someone else’s truck and slash the tires to show how disgusted they were with another person. By describing the action of destroying her ex boyfriend’s truck, she is relieving her anger and getting revenge. The tone she uses to begin her song starts out as, I don’t care who he’s with or what he’s doing attitude. She is singing softer and a little less concentrated during this part. She is trying to sound more separated and uncaring at this point. This mood changes when she starts to sing about vandalizing his truck. The music gets louder and her voice is a little more aggressive and cold. Carrie’s song starts at a lower tone, imagining what he’s doing. She sings with a certain attitude that sounds as if she’s fed up with him. As the song progresses she get a little louder, especially after the point where she tauntingly sings, “Oh but he don’t know….” Then she gets loudest and most aggressive when she starts describing what she does to his truck. Carrie finally makes the point that after she’s done all of this to his truck, which apparently means a lot to him, he’ll think twice before he cheats on someone. The last words of her song also assure listeners that she is completely done with their relationship. She sings, “the next time that he cheats, oh you know it won’t be on me.” This just gives the listener a sense of closure for their relationship. If he still thinks there could be something between them, he won’t think that after he sees his truck.
Song writer: Roman White
Some Hearts Artista Nashville
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Song title: “Before He Cheats”
Rhapsody in August, Film Analysis
Rhapsody in August is a film about four grandchildren who are in Nagasaki. They are there visiting their grandmother. The children are ages of probably 9-14. An organ that was played by their grandfather plays an important symbolic role in this film. When we are first introduced to the grandchildren, they are sitting around listening to one of the children trying to play the organ. They tell him that it is never going to be in tune. He promises to have it working by the end of the summer. Other activities they do while at their grandmother’s include looking for adventurous things to do around their grandmother’s house. One day they get a letter in the mail saying that their grandmother’s brother is in America and wants her to come and see him because he is sick. The children think this is a wonderful idea because are interested in American life. This is apparent because they wear clothes with American sayings and words. This made me feel that the children view American things as cool. The children realize their grandmother is getting old and maybe this trip would be good for her. She still lives in her somewhat large home all alone and they believe getting out would be exciting for her and them. The children try and talk their grandmother into going, but she refuses. She wants to be here for the anniversary of the Nagasaki bombing. When they send a letter in response to their cousin Clark explaining this, he becomes aware that the death of his uncle was because of the atomic bomb and immediately flies to Nagasaki to join in the remembrance ceremony.
The Grandmother is torn because she has harbored feelings toward Americans after what happened to her husband and the other people of Nagasaki. She isn’t sure she feels comfortable going to America. She also wants to be home to remember those who died in the bombing. She is kind of hostile toward Clark because he is American. She doesn’t know whether to accept him and let him come into her home and feel welcome or not. When he gets there she sees the pain and sorrow on his face and through his actions. This softens her heart and makes her realize that he is not personally responsible for what happened to her husband and many others. She accepts him into her home and lets the barrier between she and Clark subside. In the very end of the movie Clark receives word that his father has died. He immediately returns to the United States. The grandmother feels his pain of losing someone. That night the children awake because of a storm. Their grandmother runs in telling them to get under the blankets. It’s a bomb. The next morning they see their grandmother is missing. She is running toward town. It is as if the sorrow she felt earlier has evoked her memories and she is reliving the day of the atomic bomb.
There are several places this film focuses on. Nagasaki holds a lot of painful memories. This is also a place where the children come to remember their grandfather. It is ironic because when Clark comes, he wants to visit where his uncle died. I believe this was done to show the shared feelings of an “American” and the children who are from Nagasaki. The bare playground symbolizes the relationship the children had with their grandfather and Clark had with his uncle. They were never able to have one. They only have a memory linked to his death to remember him by.
Another place that is important to this film was the grandmother’s house. Many feelings occurred there. There was love between the family, hostility between Clark and the grandmother, and there was also healing that occurred there. For instance the organ symbolizes the relationship between the grandmother and Clark. It starts out broken. Even though it exists it cannot play right. The fact that it was played by the grandfather links it to their relationship. When Clark and the grandmother sit and talk and work out their differences the organ begins to work and is in tune. When the relationship was fixed the organ was fixed. The song about the rose that the eldest boy played on the organ was also symbolic of understanding. When they were at the temple on the memorial day of the atomic bomb, there were ants crawling up a rose. It was as if the song resembled understanding between Clark/ Americans, and the people of Nagasaki.
I believe the theme of this film was to show the differences between Americans and the people from Nagasaki. It was meant to show that even though the Americans were the cause of so much pain and sorrow, Americans are just people too. We have sorrow, trouble, and problems. This realization helps mend the relationship between Clark and the grandma.
Rhapsody in August. Dir. Akira Kurosawa. Perf. Hisashi Igawa and Sachio Sakai. World Films, 1991.
The Grandmother is torn because she has harbored feelings toward Americans after what happened to her husband and the other people of Nagasaki. She isn’t sure she feels comfortable going to America. She also wants to be home to remember those who died in the bombing. She is kind of hostile toward Clark because he is American. She doesn’t know whether to accept him and let him come into her home and feel welcome or not. When he gets there she sees the pain and sorrow on his face and through his actions. This softens her heart and makes her realize that he is not personally responsible for what happened to her husband and many others. She accepts him into her home and lets the barrier between she and Clark subside. In the very end of the movie Clark receives word that his father has died. He immediately returns to the United States. The grandmother feels his pain of losing someone. That night the children awake because of a storm. Their grandmother runs in telling them to get under the blankets. It’s a bomb. The next morning they see their grandmother is missing. She is running toward town. It is as if the sorrow she felt earlier has evoked her memories and she is reliving the day of the atomic bomb.
There are several places this film focuses on. Nagasaki holds a lot of painful memories. This is also a place where the children come to remember their grandfather. It is ironic because when Clark comes, he wants to visit where his uncle died. I believe this was done to show the shared feelings of an “American” and the children who are from Nagasaki. The bare playground symbolizes the relationship the children had with their grandfather and Clark had with his uncle. They were never able to have one. They only have a memory linked to his death to remember him by.
Another place that is important to this film was the grandmother’s house. Many feelings occurred there. There was love between the family, hostility between Clark and the grandmother, and there was also healing that occurred there. For instance the organ symbolizes the relationship between the grandmother and Clark. It starts out broken. Even though it exists it cannot play right. The fact that it was played by the grandfather links it to their relationship. When Clark and the grandmother sit and talk and work out their differences the organ begins to work and is in tune. When the relationship was fixed the organ was fixed. The song about the rose that the eldest boy played on the organ was also symbolic of understanding. When they were at the temple on the memorial day of the atomic bomb, there were ants crawling up a rose. It was as if the song resembled understanding between Clark/ Americans, and the people of Nagasaki.
I believe the theme of this film was to show the differences between Americans and the people from Nagasaki. It was meant to show that even though the Americans were the cause of so much pain and sorrow, Americans are just people too. We have sorrow, trouble, and problems. This realization helps mend the relationship between Clark and the grandma.
Rhapsody in August. Dir. Akira Kurosawa. Perf. Hisashi Igawa and Sachio Sakai. World Films, 1991.
"A not-so-rare Dilemma" News Article Summary
How you order a steak is based upon personal preference. In the article, “A not-so-rare dilemma” by Chicago Tribune’s restaurant critic Phil Vettel, a person’s preference isn’t the only thing that affects the amount of time your meat is cooked. The person cooking your steak has a lot to do with what your steak ends up looking like. In this article the author goes through the different definitions of doneness that a steak can be.
“Rare: Red throughout; cool red center.
Medium-rare: Red to bright-pink throughout; warm red center.
Medium: Pink throughout; no red, warm pink center.
Medium-well: Mostly gray brown; some pink to the meat.
Well-done: Gray-brown throughout; well-charred exterior.”
Vettel shares that his order depends on where he is ordering from. He takes into consideration that at a higher quality steak house they will more likely to undercook a steak. Therefore he orders accordingly so when he gets his steak, it is how he enjoys it. At a lower line steakhouse he points out that it may be a better idea to order something a little less done than you usually would. He explains that in many cases the meat is overcooked at these types of places. If you order based on this fact you will end up with the results that you find the most enjoyable. Vettel believes that if you like your steak well done than you should choose the lesser quality steakhouses. He assures you that more than likely you won’t be able to taste the difference and it will be less costly. This article is a great way to help guide you when you are going out to eat at a steakhouse. You have a better chance of coming away from a steakhouse satisfied. Now you know things to go by when selecting a steakhouse and ordering a steak.
Vettel, Phil. “A not-so-rare dilemma.” Chicago Tribune 22 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?d_issuesearch=on&f_subsection=sAT+PLAY&p_action=doc&p_topdoc=1&p_docnum=1&p_sort=YMD_date:D&p_text_direct-0=document_id=(%2011D15A79E7227690%20)&d_place=CTRB&p_multi=CTRB&f_issue=2007-11-22&f_publisher=&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=N5DO4CFAMTE5NjI4MDQwNi44MTAyNzoxOjEzOjY0LjExMy43My4yMDA.
“Rare: Red throughout; cool red center.
Medium-rare: Red to bright-pink throughout; warm red center.
Medium: Pink throughout; no red, warm pink center.
Medium-well: Mostly gray brown; some pink to the meat.
Well-done: Gray-brown throughout; well-charred exterior.”
Vettel shares that his order depends on where he is ordering from. He takes into consideration that at a higher quality steak house they will more likely to undercook a steak. Therefore he orders accordingly so when he gets his steak, it is how he enjoys it. At a lower line steakhouse he points out that it may be a better idea to order something a little less done than you usually would. He explains that in many cases the meat is overcooked at these types of places. If you order based on this fact you will end up with the results that you find the most enjoyable. Vettel believes that if you like your steak well done than you should choose the lesser quality steakhouses. He assures you that more than likely you won’t be able to taste the difference and it will be less costly. This article is a great way to help guide you when you are going out to eat at a steakhouse. You have a better chance of coming away from a steakhouse satisfied. Now you know things to go by when selecting a steakhouse and ordering a steak.
Vettel, Phil. “A not-so-rare dilemma.” Chicago Tribune 22 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?d_issuesearch=on&f_subsection=sAT+PLAY&p_action=doc&p_topdoc=1&p_docnum=1&p_sort=YMD_date:D&p_text_direct-0=document_id=(%2011D15A79E7227690%20)&d_place=CTRB&p_multi=CTRB&f_issue=2007-11-22&f_publisher=&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=N5DO4CFAMTE5NjI4MDQwNi44MTAyNzoxOjEzOjY0LjExMy43My4yMDA.
"Ankeny Looking to cut new School;s Amenities" News Article Summary
The article from The Des Moines Register, “Ankeny looking to cut new school’s amenities” focuses on the Ankeny school district. Ankeny plans to build a new elementary school, renovate the current high school and elementary schools, and work on the high school/ middle school complex. The board has been planning for some time now. The rising construction costs have forced the school board to rethink the plans and cut some of the projects from the plan. Building designer Paul Arend said, “To reduce the cost without reducing the quality of the facility is our goal.” The school board is being pushed to come up with other alternatives to cut the costs of building. The building decisions are somewhat dependant on the legislature’s decision for a one cent sales tax. The school board is aware that there are many things they need to consider before finalizing the plans. Different plans of action to cut costs are being formed. Some believe that temporarily closing some of the schools will help with the budget. Closing a few of the schools would halt other plans of action, such as changing the Northview Middle School from a school for eighth and ninth grade students to a school for sixth and seventh graders. There are clearly pros and cons to each different idea and setup. These will have to be weighed and debated to have a successful outcome. The school district is really striving to help their schools without having to slow it down or interfere with the current quality.
Source: Erzen, Todd. “Ankeny looking to cut new school’s amenities.” Des Moines Register, The 23 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?d_issuesearch=on&f_subsection=sANKENY+ZONE&p_action=doc&p_topdoc=1&p_docnum=1&p_sort=YMD_date:D&p_text_direct-0=document_id=(%2011D216B217B9B718%20)&d_place=DMRB&p_multi=DMRB&f_issue=2007-11-23&f_publisher=&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=A60Q4FKDMTE5NjI3ODM3MC4zNDMzNDg6MToxMzo2NC4xMTMuNzMuMjAw.
Source: Erzen, Todd. “Ankeny looking to cut new school’s amenities.” Des Moines Register, The 23 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?d_issuesearch=on&f_subsection=sANKENY+ZONE&p_action=doc&p_topdoc=1&p_docnum=1&p_sort=YMD_date:D&p_text_direct-0=document_id=(%2011D216B217B9B718%20)&d_place=DMRB&p_multi=DMRB&f_issue=2007-11-23&f_publisher=&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=A60Q4FKDMTE5NjI3ODM3MC4zNDMzNDg6MToxMzo2NC4xMTMuNzMuMjAw.
"You're Eating That?" Newspaper Article Summary
The article, “You’re Eating That?” from The New York Times, is an article that discusses how the food safety market is one of the biggest concerns for Americans. The article also brought up the point that many Americans are less confident in what they are buying from the grocery stores. This could be problematic because the food producers that take their product to a laboratory can easily switch labs if their food is not approved at the first lab. I agree with the article because obviously if the producer’s food didn’t pass at one lab’s testing, it shouldn’t pass anywhere or enter the food market at all. The laboratory that finds a problem with a product is not allowed to notify the FDA and alert them of the problem. They have to give the results to the importer. This is ridiculous because they can just turn around and take their products to another lab that is not as uptight. There is a chance that at this laboratory their product will be passed. The article shares the idea that maybe the producers should be required to tell which lab they are using in order to prevent the switching of labs. We put a lot of trust in the FDA and therefore we expect them to protect our food industry so it is safe for consumers. If they don’t do their job how should we, as consumers, feel safe buying the various products found in grocery stores? If we don’t get these regulations straightened out then the trust that people have in the industry will continue to dwindle and soon we will not have a secure system. Many more problems will be created if we don’t get in control of our current problem in the food market.
“You’re Eating That?” New York Times, The (NY) 26 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb/?p_action=print&p_docid=11D29F561A1BD680&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=X6FD5EKSMTE5NjI3NDgyNi4xNDQ2MTY6MToxMzo2NC4xMTMuNzMuMjAw.
“You’re Eating That?” New York Times, The (NY) 26 Nov. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007 http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb/?p_action=print&p_docid=11D29F561A1BD680&p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated4&p_nbid=X6FD5EKSMTE5NjI3NDgyNi4xNDQ2MTY6MToxMzo2NC4xMTMuNzMuMjAw.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Bridge
This is a picture of the bridge my group and I decided to photograph. We all went out at different times and tried to capture it in different elements. In this case it was raining. Notice the water running down the side of the bridge. This is a perfect example of how the bridge does its job by allowing people and cars to pass over it without having to ford the stream, even though the stream is definately not very deep. There are no people or cars in the image however in order to show the bridge itself and the setting. People or cars may have been a distraction. This picture shows the beautiful architecture of the bridge. It leads the eye underneath the bridge to the other side and gives the photograph more depth. This also makes the viewer more captivated and gives the photo more interest points and excitement. The pathos of this photograph might be a little dreary because of the pale color of the bridge and the overcast sky. The green does cheer things up a bit though.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Looking up
We chose this unique photograph to give the viewer a chance to see the perspective from the side of the bridge standing on the bank looking up. This angle makes the viewer feel as though they are the one taking this picture. This photograph draws the viewer's eye with the guidance of the lamp. This is just a very different perspective that not everyone experiences. The whole bridge is not in this photograph because we were trying to capture a small unique part of the bridge that one may not see or notice. The design of this photo was created to have an interest point yet allow the eye to naturally follow the lines upward. This picture has logos because your eye does naturally go in an upward direction. I really like this photograph because it show the texture of the cement that the bridge is made out of. It also has a good view of the railing and then the pedestals that the lamps sit on. It captures all of the art in one picture.
The Railing
I really like how this photograph captures the design of this bridge. Not many people would notice the shapes this railing has. I love how there is greenery in the back round. This makes the black of the railing pop out at the viewer, yet isn't too busy for the viewer's eye. This is a great way to showcase some of the smaller details of this bridge. We only included the railing in order to not take away from the railing's character. The design of this photo was to display the artwork and detail of the bridge. The pathos of this photograph may cause someone to feel as though they are right there studying the bridge them self. I could also see someone feeling a bit trapped by this photograph though. The bars may at first make the viewer feel trapped yet the wavy lines make the photograph not as serious and a little more fun and relaxed.
The Bridge in Black and White
This photograph was taken to give the viewer a feeling of placement. The surroundings of the bridge can be seen somewhat. The viewer gains a better knowledge of what kinds of things are in the vicinity of the bridge. It also gives a sense of the size of the bridge. The black and white color allows the viewer to focus more on the actual bridge and the environment around. Color may have been distracting in such a broad view of the bridge. This picture has logos because the picture is closer to one end of the bridge and then your eyes follow across the bridge. The underneath arc also helps lead the eye. the framing of this photograph was done with the lampposts of the bridge. They add a balance that is needed in a photograph. The shrubbery in the lower left also helps balance the weight of the bridge that is closest to the viewer.
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