Heroes & Monsters - Literary Heritage

Outside Event - Reading

2009-12-08T07:01:00.001-08:00

Davis-Kidd Booksellers
387 Perkins Extended
Memphis TN 38117
(901) 683-9801

Local Best Seller
Lisa Patton
discussing and signing

Whistlin' Dixie in a Nor'easter
Tuesday, December 8 at 6:00 pm

"Funny, heartfelt and loaded with Southern charm, Patton's debut brims with pluck and is filled with memorable characters".--Adriana Trigiani. Lisa Patton, a graduate of Hutchison School, and former manager of the Orpheum, FM 100 radio, and of WMC TV, is getting accolades for her witty and charming debut novel.

Wonder Woman

2009-12-06T00:50:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who felt a deep sense of shock and guilt that the only real, stand alone superheroine the female world has is Wonderwoman, and her flaw is that she's female?

That's just really, really, painfully sad. It might be easy to ignore because comicbooks do not interest a vast majority of the female population, but it is important to me and future generations that the biggest superheroine in comicbooks not be a huge contradiction.

Anyway, I just wanted to explore that idea. Here are some comic books which feature female heroines which I kind of feel we've been lacking.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
Kabuki by David Mack
Demo by Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan
Fables by Bill Willingham
Coraline by Neil Gaiman (based off a book first)

There are lots more out there, some dedicated to a single female characters and others have a plot bigger than the actual characters.

Phoenix!

2009-12-06T00:08:00.000-08:00

2009-12-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

Take the 60 Second challenge!

Creating your own interpretation of Shakespeare in one minute - make a film or audio, take a scene or whole play, keep it classic or make it modern, it's up to you.

HAMLET QUESTIONS

2009-12-02T10:18:00.001-08:00

Clarification:

I did not tell y'all very specifically which questions to do. I'm sorry about that. Please complete the following:

ACT I
3

ACT II
3, 4

ACT III
2, 4

ACT IV
2, 3

ACT V
2

GENERAL QUESTIONS
1, 2, 7

The B-Up

2009-12-01T07:11:00.001-08:00

This is what everyone has been waiting for, the sequel to the blog about "long distance relationships". "B-Up" means break up, meaning that my girlfriend and I are no longer together. First, you need to know that I could possibly be one of the most care free guys around, whereas my ex-girlfriend is far from it, to put it mildly. The break up happened back on Halloween when I went to Birmingham to participate in a tennis tournament. I was expecting a great weekend because I was able to see my girlfriend and celebrate Halloween with her. Initially, things were alright between us, but as the weekend passed by I noticed that she was acting a bit strange and was not being herself. I tried shrugging it off at first, because I thought she was still stressed from all of her exams that week and I wanted to concentrate on my tournament. FAIL! However, somehow we managed to get through two days of us pretending that things were okay. Finally, on the night of Halloween, I decided that it was time for us to talk about why was she was acting so strange. The thing is, I’m notorious for having terrible timing, especially since she just got into her Halloween costume. Imagine how hard it was for me to be completely serious when I was looking at a pink themed cowgirl with two guns in holsters! It was so hard for me not laugh; every time she walked her spurs would click. Now this was our first real fight and my first real break up, so I had no idea what to expect. If only I could have read a handbook on the art of consoling a crying cowgirl. In the end, we decided that it was better for us to be separate. The tournament that I wanted to do well at ended in a DISASTER. All in all, that could have been the most unique weekend of my life.

Words: 333

Everyone likes Shakespeare!

2009-11-29T15:48:00.001-08:00

It is interesting to know the opinions of others when talking about Shakespeare. I, for one, enjoy his works while not many other I know do. I think it is important to society today or why else would it still be around. Yes, that’s right! Shakespeare is still taught today; however it is told in a way that is more appealing to today’s society, children in particular. Yesterday’s Hamlet is today’s Lion King. This is seen clearly through the actions and meaning of the different characters.

Hamlet Jr. is seen in Simba. Both of their parents, who are the rulers of the land, have died and now the princes are looking for a way out. Simba runs away, and Hamlet doesn’t take the responsibility of his father. Mufasa is seen clearly in the character of Hamlet Sr. Both kings are killed and come to their sons in a clear ghostly vision. They are both evoked to seek revenge for their father’s. Not only are the protagonists shown, but the antagonist are represented as well. Scar is seen in the actions of Claudius. Scar kills Mufasa as Claudius kills Hamlet Sr. Also, as Claudius takes the original queen as his wife, it is assumed that Scar takes Sarabi as his wife.

I find it interesting that a play such as Hamlet is undervalued while something such as The Lion King can take cartoons and bring the whole meaning of the play back to life in the present.

WORD COUNT: 246

2009-11-19T07:07:00.001-08:00

Oedipus, The King ~ The Complete Play

Iterations

2009-11-19T04:41:00.000-08:00

When i got finished reading "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been", and watching Smooth Talking I saw a lot of similarities. One thing about the short story is that it starts to be very repetitive and seemed to drag along in the end, Smooth Talk also did that at the end whe A. Friend was trying to get the girl. Repetitiveness is one thing that I really do not care for I just get tired of reading something that seems like it is taking forever to read. The three nonfiction stories were similar but there were certain differences within each article. You could see how different people tell the same story but in a different way. Reading the nonfiction articles of Charles Schmid gives us an idea of Arnold Friend. I really liked reading the nonfiction articles about the story because it gave the real hard truth and facts about where the real idea for "Where are you going, Where have you been". The video was way off and I didn’t really like it at all, maybe because it was a horrible depiction of what we just saw and read. The movie was the best description of the short story because you could actually see the story being played out in front of you. Writing the same story in different iterations is creative and impressive but i find it easier to understand when i see the movie first then reading the short story.

2009-11-17T15:19:00.000-08:00

Jonathan May and Emily Thrash will be reading from their respective oeuvres.

Expect sex and laughter and ballroom dancing.

In addition, it's Jonathan's birthday, so you might have to sing. But he hates that so maybe not.

Henry James says of Emily's work: "Thrilling, orgasmic, like a female Turgenev of the American South."

Sappho, of Lesbos, says of Jonathan's poems: "Rhapsodic."

Otherlands Coffee Bar
641 S. Cooper
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
6:30pm - 8:00pm

For Thursday

2009-11-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

Please read pages 1277 through 1322. Answer all questions in the text. Bring in, typed . . . . blah blah blah.

Lost Literature Book

2009-11-17T01:29:00.000-08:00

If anyone finds a blue English literature book, know someone who has found one, or has turned in a found one please let me know. I left it in class Thursday and did not notice it was gone till this Monday. I would really appreciate it. (Tarlisha Crutcher English 2201 t/th 11:20)

We are Part Monster!

2009-11-16T16:53:00.000-08:00

"Your memory is a monster; you forget - it doesn't. It simply files things away. It keeps things for you, or hides things from you - and summons them to your recall with a will of its own. You think you have a memory; but it has you!"

~John Irving

It is sometimes hard to come up with something to write about own my own; however it has taught me to become interested in finding things out for myself. This quote, for example, I found by googling "monster quotes." It is something I have never thought of before, but it is so true. The human mind is such an incredible thing. It stores so much information that we don't even know we are retaining. In my human development class we learned about human cognitive development. I learned that once we know how to do something, like riding a bike, we never forget it. Sometimes we can't find it where we stored it in our brains, but it is there. This quote makes me think of all those times that I'm standing around randomly and I suddenly remember a dream I had or a past memory. This happens even when we aren't trying to remember things. In this way, our mind is in control. We don't try to remember somethings, but the littlest thing makes memories rush back. I find it funny and ironic because when we aren't trying to remember things we do but when it comes to a test...God forbid our memory works on it's own then.

WORD COUNT: 258

A Worn Path Reflection

2009-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy a visual representation of literature because you can take words and then deliver them in your own particular desired way. It’s always interesting to see how someone takes literature and transfers them to film, or stage, or even to art. When I read “A Worn Path” for the first time, I was slightly confused about Phoenix’s hallucinations. For me, it was not very clear in the text what was going on. When I saw the video of the story, it was easier for me to understand. Therefore, I believe I gained more understanding while watching the movie versus the actual story. Not saying, that I am the type of person who always would rather choose the movie over the book, but in this case I enjoyed the movie.
When it comes to the subject of perspective, I really didn’t see much of a change between the story and video. When reading, it was understood that Phoenix was the main character and that we, as the readers, were not able to know her every thought. The movie did take the audience slightly deeper into the world of Phoenix, just because there was more dialogue from Phoenix. She constantly talked to herself and we were able to see the facial expressions of her character. I was able to notice physical traits that created Phoenix.
In the movie, there was more emphasis put on the minor characters. The characters would be the hunter, lady who ties Phoenix’s shoes, and the nurse. Out of all these characters, I felt that the nurse had the most important role. Throughout the entire story, this is the only character that really understands and knows Phoenix. She is knowledgeable of her situation and life style. During the scene in the doctor’s office, the film maker concentrated on their relationship. The film magnifies how the nurse took time to help Phoenix and how she had sympathy for her.
I really enjoyed being able to watch this story come to life on film. I also really was glad to view the interview of the author. It really gave me more background on the story and how it came to exist. It is always very interesting to listen to the author’s insight about their own story.
WORD COUNT: 378

Questions for 11-12-09

2009-11-16T08:29:00.001-08:00

2. My mother is the biggest nag in the whole world. It's like she doesn't even care about who I am or what I'm about. All she cares about is me making a success of myself.

5. "Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid is told in second and first-person points of view. This colors the meaning of the story by showing how her mother always told her what to do and she never talked back even though her thoughts contradicted her mother's words.

8. I was getting my groceries when I noticed the manager of the place chewing out one of his employees in an unprofessional manner. I obviously could not let this continue, so I stabbed the manager in the back alley.

Reminder: Outside Event Reflection Guidelines

2009-11-14T14:35:00.000-08:00

Outside Events

Make sure you're putting your reflections in the Outside Events dropboxes, so that you can get credit for going. The reflections must go far beyond a recitation of what happened and into an exploration of the experience. HERE is a rubric (guide) for writing these.

A Worn Path

2009-11-14T13:41:00.000-08:00

.

Reflect on the way Point of View is changed, or reinforced, in the movie version of this story. Also think about what is gained and/or lost in the translation of the text into a movie.

2009-11-10T07:00:00.001-08:00

Y'all, I'm so sorry for the late notice, but I need to cancel class today. Carry over the assignment that was due today (the Baldwin and Wealty stories and the questions that follow them). Also answer questions 2, 5, and 8 on page 72 of your text. Bring those in - typed - on Thursday.

Get outside and enjoy the day!

Whats up with the Weather

2009-11-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

Okay after moving down here from Pennsylvania I have noticed that it never gets cold. Ever. I have always wondered why that does that, i had a conversation with my father the other day and he said that it was 30 degrees. I wish it could get this cold here but i doubt it becuase i am still wearing shorts in November. Last Christmas, if i recall correctly, the weather was particulary warm. It is wierd how just because of a view hundred miles the weather changes so much. This has always been on my mind.

Thursday

2009-11-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

Can anyone tell me the assingment that was givin on Thursday please???

2009-11-03T13:33:00.000-08:00

Writers on the Road Series

Sponsored by Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Graduate Writers
Forum and University of Memphis’ Creative Writing Club
Burke’s Bookstore, 936 S. Cooper St. (map)
Friday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m.

Mark Jay Brewin Jr. is a second year graduate candidate at the MFA
program of Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. His poems
have been published in numerous journals including Corradi Summer
Journal and New Delta Review, and are forthcoming in Packingtown
Review, Iron Horse Literary Review and Southern Poetry Review.
They have also placed as finalist in the Guy Owen Poetry Prize and
the New Letters Literary Award Contest, as well as been featured on
Saxifrage Press’s website highlighting up and coming poets."

A.K. Thompson is a fiction writer who lives in a cabin on a pond in Makanda,
Illinois where vultures descend each fall. She holds a Master's Degree from the
now-defunct New College of California in San Francisco, where she nearly went
crazy, but arguably might have actually gone crazy, which may be why she is
now a writer. She has two smelly dogs, spends most of her time in the woods
stalking squirrels, sings hillbilly songs while picking her guitar and watches Hee-
Haw.

James Scoles’ most recent story— The Electricity of Crime—is featured in
the current issue of Prairie Fire Magazine (Canada). He recently returned from a writing fellowship at the National University of Ireland-Galway, where he worked on a novel based on his family history and a game of cards. His fiction and non-fiction have been nominated for National and Western Magazine Awards, as well as The Journey Prize (Canada), and twice for the Pushcart Prize.

Katie Zapoluch was born and raised in Pinconning, Michigan--not far from Madonna's birthplace. Unlike Madonna, Katie is quite fond of her hometown, and hopes to move back to Michigan once she's out of school. Katie studied English, Classical Studies, and American Studies at Kalamazoo College, and earned an MA in English Language and Literature at Central Michigan University. Her work has appeared in Kalamazoo College's literary magazine, The Cauldron, for which she served as poetry editor, as well as Central Michigan University's graduate literary
magazine, Temenos. She also won a sestina contest in Trellis magazine.

Long-distance relationships

2009-11-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

I am currently in this relationship with another tennis girl; however she attends a different college in Birmingham, Alabama. When you think about Birmingham is not that far from Memphis, maybe just a three or four drive. Which is great and all, because I am not that far away from her. And we can visit each other whenever we have an off weekend. But, because it is somewhat close, it is kind of an obligation that we see each other. Meaning that one of us has to get in the car and make one of the most boring drives in the history of the universe. I realize that is an over-reaction, but then again you do not understand my pain because you have never made that drive.

The Great Weather

2009-11-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

I thought it was so wonderful to finally wake up to a sunny cloudless morning yesterday. I started to believe that global warming have finally caught on and we were doomed. It is definitely better late than never, because we are in November and I can walk around in shorts and maybe a pull-over. I think everyone is happier when they are around good weather like this. Yesterday i sat next to the water fountain on campus and just took it all in; the sun, the beautiful day, and all the people experiencing my same joy. It was the best day that I had all semester, hopefully today will be the same.

School

2009-11-03T06:53:00.000-08:00

I have just entered the last full month of the semester, and I do not have to continue to juggle my sport and school anymore. During the fall, my season only lasts about two months of September and October. We're forced to practice shorter hours in November, which means we spend less time on court or doing conditioning. Originally I thought the change of hours was a burden, because it would damper with my performance. However, it is actually a good thing because I can spend more time focusing on my classes and regain ground in all my classes. In a way, I am allowed to be a regular student for two months.

Outside Event: Memphis Matters

2009-11-01T11:26:00.001-08:00

It’s a very serious relationship, intense even. You’re committed, but it’s complicated.It’s MEMPHIS!

Playback Memphis invites you to an evening of stories about life and work in our beloved city. In a Playback performance, audience members tell stories from their lives, then watch as actors and musician bring them to life on the spot without script, score, or rehearsal. Playback creates ample opportunity for laughter, reflection, and dialogue. It’s compelling and entertaining theater—as well as an outstanding tool for community building.

All proceeds go towards bringing the Playback experience to communities in need. We are currently partnering with local non-profits MIFA, Porter Leath, and Victims to Victory.

Two shows ONLY. This Friday, November 6th & Saturday, November 7th at 8pm. General admission $15. Students and Seniors with ID $12. TheatreSouth (1000 South Cooper).

FOR RESERVATIONS AND TICKET INFORMATION
264-0841 / INFO@PLAYBACKMEMPHIS.COM
LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE
RESERVATIONS STRONGLY ENCOURAGED

Playback Memphis is generously supported by Arts Memphis and the Tennessee Arts Commission and lots of amazing Memphians.

Flanner O' Connor Comic by John Campbell

2009-10-29T10:53:00.001-07:00

The Incarnational Art of Flannery OConnor

2009-10-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

Outside Events- Reflection Guidelines

2009-10-28T05:14:00.001-07:00

Outside Events

2009-10-28T05:12:00.002-07:00

Alice Randall, Author of Rebel Yell will be reading on this Thursday, October 29 at 7:00pm at Davis-Kidd.
http://www.alicerandall.com/

Free Outside Event

2009-10-28T05:12:00.001-07:00

Alice Randall, Author of Rebel Yell will be reading on this Thursday, October 29 at 7:00pm at Davis-Kidd.
http://www.alicerandall.com/

2009-10-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

O’Connor Southern or Catholic
O’Connor writing style is Grotesque. In the short story “A Good Man is Hard to Find” I would say O’Connor portrays the character Misfit. Misfit is in control the entire time and the writer is also in control of the text. Misfit is a man who wants attention and does not know how to get it without killing someone. O’Connor is a dying woman who uses her writing skills to gain attention. Her frustration involves in Misfit actions towards the helpless family in the story.
In the short story “Revelation” O’ Connor seems to portray Ms. Turpin personality traits. O’ Connor writes if she is ungrateful about her creation. Ms. Turpin is outspoken and she tries to tell everyone else what they are to be doing with their life. She is prejudice, nic picking and worries to much about others well begin. O’Connor uses writing to demonstrate her outspoken ways. She writes rudely about other to demonstrate her prejudice befits.
In the short story “ Parker’s Back” O’Connor seems to be about to experience death she might think she might think she is going to see God’s face for the first time. She uses Parker to demonstrate her weakness. A man who cries is in great pain. O’ Connor does not think she cannot go any farther. When Parker runs out of space for anymore tattoos on his body this may indicate O’Connor body is to weak for any medicine to cure her illness. Right after she wrote this story she passes away.
I think O’ Connor is Catholic because of the story she writes. She is direct and to the point. She speaks about God in all of her writings. She is struggling to overcome something that is impossible without God’s help. It seems that she losses faith throughout her stories that is why she writes bitter.

A different kind of hero

2009-10-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

David Bowie "Hero"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYjBQKIOb-w

Boys like Girls "Hero/Heroine"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ7bJzfzzdo

Enrique Iglesias "Hero"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owTmJrtD7g8

I wanted to talk about heroes in a different sense then previously discussed in class. Before, we decided that a hero makes a difference and is not selfish. A hero is brave and makes courageous actions. Has anyone ever thought about a hero being your significant other, a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife? I found it interesting that when I went on youtube and typed in "hero" I found many songs about being in love. The songs above are some that I like a lot and have never thought about in this way before. It made me think that there are many definitions to the word hero depending on the situation. These songs refer to their heroes as there significant other. Now that I think about it, I know this to be true from experience. I just wanted to get other peoples input on this view of a hero or IF this kind of person IS considered a hero. Thoughts??

WORD COUNT: 173

Outside Event: Twelve Angry Jurors

2009-10-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

College of Communication and Fine Arts :: CCFA Jurors :: University of Memphis

Opening in the Studio Theatre on Friday October 23, Twelve Angry Jurors by Reginald Rose runs for seven performances at the University of Memphis; October 23-24 and 27-31. All performances begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 and $15. For ticket information, call the box office at (901) 678-2576.

For Tuesday 10/27

2009-10-22T15:44:00.000-07:00

.
Read the critical text that follows the O'Connor stories. Wright a one-page reflection (typed and brought to class) on how you think O'Connor's position as a Southerner and/or a Catholic is played out in her stories, what its impact is. This is not to be a recitation of instances where she is obviously Southern or Catholic, but, rather, what characteristics of each (as you know them either as an insider or outsider) are contained and exemplified in her stories.

Outside Events:

2009-10-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

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Pinch Release Party & Reading
Saturday, October 24, 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Art Under a Hot Tin Roof
117 South Main St.
City/Town:
Memphis, TN

Please join us for the celebration of our newest issue!

We'll have food, the famous Pinch Punch, and author readings!

AND:

Original Poetry Reading When: Wed., Oct. 28, 7-8:30 p.m. Where: Otherlands, Midtown 641 S. Cooper ... By John Richard Reed, Emily Green, Matt Cook, Michael Graber

2009-10-20T09:36:00.001-07:00

2009-10-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

Blogs

2009-10-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

How are we to submit the blogs if there is no location open to submit them in?

For Thursday, 10/22/09

2009-10-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

Read the O'Connor stories ("A Good Man is Hard to Find," " Revelation," and "Parker's Back"). Answer the following questions, in complete sentences/paragraphs (bring in to class):

Pg 368 - 1-4
Pg 382 - 6-7
Pg 395 - 5-9

If you do a (or more than one) blog(s) about these stories, you need to go beyond the answers to the questions and reflect on the stories, or even just one story, in a way that relates it to YOU, or the world as you see it. Drop your blogs as usual, but by Wednesday morning.

Have a great weekend, y'all. See you Thursday! Enjoy your break

Thursday 10/15

2009-10-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Bring to class, stapled together:

Your final draft (place on top).
Your rough draft.
Your writing reflection (re. peer review, revision, process).

Separately (not stapled), bring your peer reviews.

If you're doing the creative option, I need you to post the URL to your movie on your blog, as well as on the top of your final proposal draft, which needs to generally line up with the proposal format guidelines.

READING:

Please read "A Good Man Is Hard To Find" by Flannery O'Connor (page 358) and be ready to discuss.

Creative Option: The Proposal

2009-10-12T13:35:00.001-07:00

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Click HERE for some specific guidelines for the proposals.

Blog Prompts

2009-10-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

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I understand that some of you are having difficulty with understand the how and why of these blogs. THIS is a really good site filled with writing prompts. You could choose any of these to use as springboards for your blog posts.
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2009-10-12T08:10:00.001-07:00

You're Invited!
Fall 2009 Release Party!

The Pinch, the award-winning literary journal of The University of Memphis, is celebrating the release of the Fall 2009 issue, soon to hit bookstores across the country.

Saturday, October 24
7 to 9 p.m.
Art Under a Hot Tin Roof
117 South Main
(near Peabody Place)

Join authors, editors and artists for an evening of readings and refreshments at Art Under a Hot
Tin Roof, located in downtown Memphis.

This event is free and open to the public.

Sponsored By:
The University of Memphis
The Hohenberg Foundation

www.thepinchjournal.com
www.mfainmemphis.com

Jewish Literature Discussion - Outside Event

2009-10-12T08:01:00.001-07:00

The University of Memphis will host a four-part public series of readings and discussions of Jewish literature this fall.

The series will be led by Dr. David Patterson, holder of the Chair of Excellence in Judaic Studies and director of the Bornblum Judaic Studies Program at the U of M. The sessions will be held on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room 226 of the Ned R. McWherter Library on the U of M campus. The dates are Sept. 2, Oct. 14, Nov. 4, and Dec. 2.

The free series will explore Jewish literature and culture through scholar-led discussion of modern Jewish classics. Books to be read and discussed include Ethics of Our Fathers by Pirke Avot, Hasidic Tales from the Greatest Jewish Stories Ever Told by David Patterson, I and Thou by Martin Buber, and Night by Elie Wiesel.

While it makes for a richer discussion to read the works in advance of the sessions, those who have not done so are welcome to attend. The U of M Bookstore will stock the titles, and a copy of each will be on reserve in the McWherter Library’s Reserve Room.

Parking will be available at the U of M’s two parking garages – one adjacent to the Fogelman Executive Center on Innovation Drive, just off Central Avenue, and another located at 505 Zach Curlin Street.

Sponsors of the series are the University Libraries, the Friends of the Libraries, and the Bornblum Judaic Studies Program.

More information is available from Patterson at 901-678-2919 or Tom Mendina at 901-678-4310.

Esther's Classic Literature Blog

2009-10-11T16:39:00.001-07:00

Here is a good example of a blog that reflects on literature. Your posts don't all have to be about literature, per se, but they need to demonstrate the fact that you're thinking about things in light of some of the ideas we're encountering in this class.

Esther's Classic Literature Blog

Shared via AddThis

Mark Yakich

2009-10-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

For the Mark Yakich event, will there be another date set up for him to come speak?

Jill McCorkle

2009-10-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

For the Jill McCorkle outside event is that required? Do we have to buy a book?

Yakich Event Canceled

2009-10-09T06:37:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all, Mark Yakich is not coming today. His wife has been admitted to the hospital in New Orleans and he will not be able to make it up here. I'm sorry for any inconvenience this causes for y'all. Have a great weekend!

Mark Yakich Day - 10/9

2009-10-08T11:21:00.002-07:00

Outside Event: Jill McCorkle

2009-10-08T11:21:00.001-07:00

Acclaimed author Jill McCorkle will be at Burke’s Book Store on Monday, October 19th, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM to sign copies of her new book of stories, Going Away Shoes (Algonquin Books, $19.95, hardcover).

Jill McCorkle, a master of the short story whose work has been compared to that of Alice Munro and Lorrie Moore, is a writer whose characters insist on our immediate and total attention. From the first story, about a modern-day Cinderella contemplating escape, to the last, "Me and Big Foot," an idyll about finding the perfect prince, McCorkle's collection is the genuine article, the work of a great storyteller who knows exactly how--and why--to pair longing and laughter.

Jill McCorkle is the author of eight previous books--three story collections and five novels--five of which have been selected as New York Times Notable Books. She is the winner of the New England Book Award, the John Dos Passos Prize for Excellence in Literature, and the North Carolina Award for Literature. She teaches writing at North Carolina State University and lives with her husband in Hillsborough, North Carolina.

If unable to attend you may order signed or inscribed copies at www.burkesbooks.com.

If there are any questions concerning this event, please contact Corey Mesler at 901-278-7484.

Listen to THIS!

2009-10-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

Mark Yakich is the poet that is coming on Friday.

Click on the book cover to listen to GREEN ZONE NEW ORLEANS, which is a poem for nine voices in unison

Also read:
Aerialist
The Teller is the Only Survivor of the Fairy Tale Ending
Pretzels Come To America
Rosa Parks

Due on Thursday?

2009-10-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

I'm a little confused. I remember that we're supposed to read for Thursday, but I don't remember what because we were a little rushed. Thanks.

Question

2009-10-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

What 3 assignments need to be submitted on October 6? Im confused, i dont remember doing 3 last week

Art and Writing

2009-10-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

"Road Dragon" by www.kattything.deviantart.com

Many times I wonder if people ever see a connection between art and writing. I've always been a fan of both, therefore many times I see where they overlap. Essentially, art is made up of the same "ingredients" we have been talking about that go into literature, only with art--it's generally left up to the audience to figure out the story. And people thought poetry was hard to construe. One of the most exciting things about art is the range of the artists' imagination, and how they embody their messages, their stories, and so on. I'll post a few pictures of some artwork that I can't help but find mentally engaging as far as visual storytelling goes. Of course, including some hero/monsteresque themes.

"Dream on Distant Shores" by www.gunnerromantic.deviantart.com

"Eden is Not Enough" by www.gunnerromantic.deviantart.com

"Bermuda Taowls" by www.gunnerromantic.deviantart.com

What do these images say to other people? Do they tell stories to anyone out there? Do you consider art to be a sufficient form of storytelling?

Rough Draft due Tuesday, October 13th

2009-10-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

WRITING OPTIONS:

Discuss how Williams has represented the American family and/or the American Dream in the two plays, "Glass Menagerie" and "Streetcar Named Desire."
Discuss how memory, delusion, and illusion function in each of the plays in the various characters' lives.
How are Blanche and Stella, Stanley and Mitchell different/the same?
One critic has said that “The Glass Menagerie” shows a series of contrasts between (a) the dreamer and the doer, (b) the past and the present, (c) fantasy and reality, (d) psychological and physical handicaps, and (e) the desire for escape and the awareness of responsibilities. Choose one or two of these contrasts, and trace the way it is developed in the play.

CREATIVE OPTIONS (this is not to say that the writing options won't be creative, please, dear god, let them be creative!) ~ for these, the "rough draft" will need to be a one paragraph detailed proposal that your peers will be able to review and comment on (these will also need to be approved by me).

Write modernized version of one of these plays. This is not to be a line-by-line copy/update, but a new, original play inspired by one of these. It will need to be at least 1200 words.
The Other Creative Option: Make a YouTube video inspired by the entire play or one of the scenes in either play. You may use animation, still photography, live-action. It can be funny, it MUST reflect serious engagement with the play. It must be at least ten minutes long. You cannot just read the play.

For Thursday

2009-09-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

Read "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams, starting on page 1836 of your text (the red book).

blog posts

2009-09-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone has figured this out but it's kind of neat and takes the copy and pasting thing away. If you go into the word program and click on open new.....instead of clicking blank document you can click on blog post. It will ask you for your information such as the blog site you use(blogger) and it will ask you your username and password then it will pop up and you have the choice of clicking lit. her. or your personal blog. if you click on which ever you want it to be posted on and just do your blog post on that all you have to do is hit submit and it puts it right on your post.

Mike McCarthy

2009-09-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Talent or Power

2009-09-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

So I know we've been learning about heroes in class, or at least protagonists. I would like to ask the famous question: If you were a hero or a superhero(or maybe you already are), what would be your talent/power? and why?

The talent/power can be anything. Most people already have a supernatural talent or something, say for instance, my friend has the uncanny ability to deflect cops. She's a police shield. We have no clue how it works.

My talent/power is the ability to find things. If someone i know loses something, i can find it real easily, and I don't know why. Like people, things, places, physical stuff, not like virginity.

It can be anything from really small to really big.

Assignment for Tuesday 9/29

2009-09-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

FOR EVERYONE: Read Kurt Vonnegut's short story "Harrison Bergeron" - linked HERE. Please print it out and bring to class on Tuesday.

EVERYONE: Read over the discussion questions (HERE) and be ready to share your reflections (OUT LOUD) in class.

STUDENTS NOT GOING TO CIGARETTE GIRL: Answer all of the questions in typed form (put on your blog and bring to class) and be prepared to lead the discussion in class.

STUDENTS THAT ARE GOING TO CIGARETTE GIRL (see all instructions below): Watch the movie as you would read a book. Think about it as text put to film. Be prepared to tell the class about your experience and to supply some questions for Mike McCarthy (the writer and director of the film). Write a reflective blog about the movie, the experience of seeing the movie in the context in which you'll be seeing it, and in anticipation of meeting the writer and director. (I do hope you'll make the time on Tuesday at 2:00 in Patterson 4th floor.

Homework for Thursday - 9/24

2009-09-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

Regarding the short story, "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?", answer the following questions in paragraph form (one from each group), and in such a way that someone stumbling upon your blog could figure out what you're writing about. Also print your work out and bring it to class on Thursday.

Group 1

Explain the title. Why is it in the form of a question, and why are there two parts to the question? Who does "you" refer to?
Why is this story dedicated to Bob Dylan?
Who is the story's main character, Connie or Arnold Friend?

Group 2

Discuss the theme of the house as a metaphor of Connie's identity.
Who is Arnold Friend? Do you think he is appropriately named? What is the significance of his car? His clothing? His language?
When and why does Connie begin to question his identity? What impact does her confusion have on her own personality? How are "personality" and "identity" displayed and defined in this story?

Group 3

Do a little research about the significance of the numbers 33 19 17. What are some of the ideas that have been suggested about their meaning? What do you think they mean?
What do you think of the various members of Connie's family? Why has Oates limited their roles in the story?
Where does Arnold take Connie, and what happens to her? Write your own continuation of the story.

Group 4

Describe the tone of the story and how the tone interacts with the action - use examples from the text.
Describe important images that you see in the story and what they do to create meaning within the story.
How does the setting function in the story? Could this be anywhere? Why did Oates choose the setting(s) that she did?

33 19 17

2009-09-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

A Possible Explanation for the Cryptic Numbers in "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?"

Judges (33rd book) Chapter 19 Verse 17

Judges 19

1And it came to pass in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite sojourning on the side of mount Ephraim, who took to him a concubine out of Bethlehemjudah.

2And his concubine played the whore against him, and went away from him unto her father's house to Bethlehemjudah, and was there four whole months.

3And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak friendly unto her, and to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father's house: and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.

4And his father in law, the damsel's father, retained him; and he abode with him three days: so they did eat and drink, and lodged there.

5And it came to pass on the fourth day, when they arose early in the morning, that he rose up to depart: and the damsel's father said unto his son in law, Comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread, and afterward go your way.

6And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel's father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.

7And when the man rose up to depart, his father in law urged him: therefore he lodged there again.

8And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart; and the damsel's father said, Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them.

9And when the man rose up to depart, he, and his concubine, and his servant, his father in law, the damsel's father, said unto him, Behold, now the day draweth toward evening, I pray you tarry all night: behold, the day groweth to an end, lodge here, that thine heart may be merry; and to morrow get you early on your way, that thou mayest go home.

10But the man would not tarry that night, but he rose up and departed, and came over against Jebus, which is Jerusalem; and there were with him two asses saddled, his concubine also was with him.

11And when they were by Jebus, the day was far spent; and the servant said unto his master, Come, I pray thee, and let us turn in into this city of the Jebusites, and lodge in it.

12And his master said unto him, We will not turn aside hither into the city of a stranger, that is not of the children of Israel; we will pass over to Gibeah.

13And he said unto his servant, Come, and let us draw near to one of these places to lodge all night, in Gibeah, or in Ramah.

14And they passed on and went their way; and the sun went down upon them when they were by Gibeah, which belongeth to Benjamin.

15And they turned aside thither, to go in and to lodge in Gibeah: and when he went in, he sat him down in a street of the city: for there was no man that took them into his house to lodging.

16And, behold, there came an old man from his work out of the field at even, which was also of mount Ephraim; and he sojourned in Gibeah: but the men of the place were Benjamites.

17And when he had lifted up his eyes, he saw a wayfaring man in the street of the city: and the old man said, Whither goest thou? and whence comest thou?

18And he said unto him, We are passing from Bethlehemjudah toward the side of mount Ephraim; from thence am I: and I went to Bethlehemjudah, but I am now going to the house of the LORD; and there is no man that receiveth me to house.

19Yet there is both straw and provender for our asses; and there is bread and wine also for me, and for thy handmaid, and for the young man which is with thy servants: there is no want of any thing.

20And the old man said, Peace be with thee; howsoever let all thy wants lie upon me; only lodge not in the street.

21So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.

22Now as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial, beset the house round about, and beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.

23And the man, the master of the house, went out unto them, and said unto them, Nay, my brethren, nay, I pray you, do not so wickedly; seeing that this man is come into mine house, do not this folly.

24Behold, here is my daughter a maiden, and his concubine; them I will bring out now, and humble ye them, and do with them what seemeth good unto you: but unto this man do not so vile a thing.

25But the men would not hearken to him: so the man took his concubine, and brought her forth unto them; and they knew her, and abused her all the night until the morning: and when the day began to spring, they let her go.

26Then came the woman in the dawning of the day, and fell down at the door of the man's house where her lord was, till it was light.

27And her lord rose up in the morning, and opened the doors of the house, and went out to go his way: and, behold, the woman his concubine was fallen down at the door of the house, and her hands were upon the threshold.

28And he said unto her, Up, and let us be going. But none answered. Then the man took her up upon an ass, and the man rose up, and gat him unto his place.

29And when he was come into his house, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and divided her, together with her bones, into twelve pieces, and sent her into all the coasts of Israel.

30And it was so, that all that saw it said, There was no such deed done nor seen from the day that the children of Israel came up out of the land of Egypt unto this day: consider of it, take advice, and speak your minds.

Class Canceled - 9/22

2009-09-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

Class is Canceled. My daughter has the swine flu - and I started running a fever yesterday. I'm planning on being there on Thursday, unless my fever is still happening tomorrow. I'm sorry for the late notice.

Blog

2009-09-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

This is just a prompt, this is only a prompt. You don't have to use this if you're not interested in it. I've posted this to hedge the possibility that you might assert that you don't know what to write about.

Write about your favorite type of book. What is it about that type of book that appeals to you?

Where Have You Been, Baby Blue?

2009-09-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

For Tuesday:

Reread Oates' story, and then read the nonfiction pieces (linked below) about the incident which inspired the story. Watch the short film embedded below. Listen to Bob Dylan's Baby Blue. Think about the movie Smooth Talk.

Write an essay about how different pieces of literature work together and how the story is changed and preserved in its various iterations. Post this in your blog AND bring a typed version to class. It may be helpful to use THIS as a reference/springboard for your reflection.

Murder In The Desert
Crime: Secrets in the Sand
Arizona: Growing Up in Tuscon

Still More Outside Events!

2009-09-17T06:54:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, September 23 at 7 pm, Sleeping Cat Studio, in conjunction with Memphis Mary’s / Stop 345, will present a premier of Jim Esposito’s newest movie, The Outskirts of Heaven.

The Outskirts of Heaven is based on the original stage play by Esposito. This showing is free of charge and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available at the cash bar. A light musical performance, provided by JJ McClendon, will open the evening.

Bring a friend and come see an original Memphis Indie movie.

Memphis Mary’s / Stop 345
345 Madison, Memphis
7 p.m., Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Call 901-412-9886 for further information

What Do I Want?

2009-09-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

For the essay due tomorrow (in a matter of a few hours, really), I've received some requests for clarification. I hope this will help.

I want an essay. I want you to include dissections of the three pieces we've been discussing (Ingredient/Process/Made Thing). Reflect on what these things mean, how they function to make meaning individually and corporately, how the act of dissection changes your perception of the work. Think about how the pieces are alike, in terms of (I/P/MT), in terms of meaning. Or think about how they are different, how they come at the same things from different directions.

Do all this using excellent grammar, non-cliched word choices, and a keen awareness that this stuff actually matters (beyond the grade you will receive for it). Hope that helps.

Cigarette Girl

2009-09-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

Please plan on attending one of the screenings of Cigarette Girl, by local filmmaker Mike McCarthy at The Brooks Museum. I think that you will really enjoy this very noir movie by a former comic book author. It's cheap, cool, AND it fits into our theme! Click here to read a review on the movie in The Flyer.

Where:
The Brooks Museum (in Overton Park, in front of the Zoo)

When:
Thurs. Sept. 24th 1pm
Fri. Sept. 25th 1pm
Sat. Sept. 26th 1pm

Price: $7

Outside Event Alert (this one will be AWESOME!!!!)

2009-09-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Nationally celebrated poet Mark Yakich will be at Burke’s Book Store on Friday, October 9th, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM to read from and sign copies of his poetry collections. The reading will begin at 6 pm.

“Urgent, absurd, heart-broken and lewd—the emotional range of this book [The Importance of Peeling Potatoes in Ukraine] is beyond our measuring systems.”
---Matthea Harvey

Mark Yakich is the author of Unrelated Individuals Forming a Group Waiting to Cross (National Poetry Series, Penguin 2004), The Making of Collateral Beauty (Snowbound Chapbook Award, Tupelo 2006), and The Importance of Peeling Potatoes in Ukraine (Penguin 2008). He is an associate professor of English at Loyola University New Orleans. Mark divides his time between the bedroom and the kitchen.

My Father's Diaryby Sharon Olds

2009-09-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

POEM

I get into bed with it, and spring
the scarab legs of its locks. Inside,
the stacked, shy wealth of his print—
he could not write in script, so the pages
are sturdy with the beamwork of printedness,
WENT TO LOOK AT A CAR, DAD
IN A GOOD MOOD AT DINNER, WENT
TO TRY OUT SOME NEW TENNIS RACQUETS,
LUNCH WITH MOM, life of ease—
except when he spun his father's DeSoto on the
ice, and a young tree whirled up to the
hood, throwing up her arms—until
LOIS. PLAYED TENNIS, WITH LOIS,
LUNCH WITH MOM AND LOIS, LOIS
LIKED THE CAR, DRIVING WITH LOIS,
LONG DRIVE WITH LOIS. And then,
LOIS! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! SHE IS SO
GOOD, SO SWEET, SO GENEROUS, I HAVE
NEVER, WHAT HAVE I EVER DONE
TO DESERVE SUCH A GIRL? Between the dark
legs of the capitals, moonlight, soft
tines of the printed letter gentled
apart, nectar drawn from serif, the
self of the grown boy pouring
out, the heart's charge, the fresh
man kneeling in pine-needle weave,
worshipping her. It was my father
good, it was my father grateful,
it was my father dead, who had left me
these small structures of his young brain—
he wanted me to know him, he wanted
someone to know him.
Source: Poetry (July 1998).

reading

2009-09-15T06:10:00.000-07:00

From what I can tell, no one has written on the class blog to comment on. So just for some kind of start do any of you actually enjoy and like reading? If so what kind of stuff do you like to read and who do you like to read?

Assignment for Tuesday

2009-09-13T11:46:00.001-07:00

Watch the John Updike interview linked on this site (below). Re-read A&P. Think about how Updike's own perceptions of/reflections on the story are like or unlike yours. Is your thinking about the story, and particularly the character Sammy, changed by hearing Updike's thoughts about him?

Read two poems by Sharon Olds, "Rites of Passage" (691) and "The Only Girl at the Boys' Party" (1147) and reflect on how the ideas/images of heroism/heroes is the same or different from Updike's. It might help to write with the questions that follow "R of P" in mind.

This can be one or two blog posts. Be sure to write in such a way that someone stumbling across your blog would be able to understand what you're writing about. Use complete sentences and paragraphing.

An Interview with John Updike

2009-09-10T07:08:00.001-07:00

An Interview with John Updike

An Interview with John Updike | Movies & TV | SPIKE.com

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What Is A Hero? - CBS News Video

2009-09-09T17:01:00.001-07:00

What Is A Hero? - CBS News Video

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Outside Events:

2009-09-09T11:08:00.001-07:00

Hattiloo Theatre's Fall Season
Map to Hattiloo Theatre

GOD’S TROMBONES (Musical)
August 13th – Sept. 6th
Written by James Weldon Johnson

Inspirational sermons of Black preachers are re-imagined as poetry, reverberating with the musicality and eloquence of spirituals. This classic collection includes “Listen Lord—A Prayer,” “The Prodigal Son,” “Go Down Death—A Funeral Sermon,” “Noah Built the Ark,” “The Crucifixion,” “Let My People Go,” and “The Judgment Day.” This play is a celebration of the power and passion that comes out of both the pulpit and the choir-stand.

STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
September 24th – October 11th
Written by Tennessee Williams

Set in New Orleans following World War Two, Blanche DuBois, exiled from her hometown for seducing a seventeen-year-old boy, shows up at her sister Stella’s doorstep. When Blanche claims she has recently loss the family plantation, Stelle’s boyfriend Stanley demands to see the bill of sale – this sets-off Blanche and Stanley’s war. When Stanley’s friend Mitch arrives on the scene, Blanche begins to see a way out of her predicament. Yet, as rumors of Blanche's past begin to catch up to her, her circumstances become unbearable.

FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF
Oct. 29th – Nov. 15th
Written by Ntozake Shange

A series of twenty poems, this play is performed through a cast of nameless women, each known only by a color: "Lady in Yellow." The performances of the nine actresses are focused on their specific stories; i.e., Lady in Green embodies youthful determination as she runs away from home to live with Dominican liberator Toussaint L’Ouverture. The play ends evoking the power of womanhood as the Lady in Brown begins the mantra “I found God in myself/ and I loved her/ I loved her fiercely.”

The SALON Interview: John Updike

2009-09-07T16:51:00.001-07:00

The SALON Interview: John Updike

For a man who dislikes interviews -- he has called them "a form to be loathed; a half-form like maggots" -- John Updike is an agile and adept interview subject. In conversation he seems to shed, as the critic James Wolcott has put it, "bright amounts of angel fluff" about almost any topic at hand. At age 64, there is indeed something snow-capped and oddly angelic about Updike; he seems to hover over the contemporary literary scene like an apparition from another era, the last great American man of letters. Read more.

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Assignment for Tuesday 9/8

2009-09-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Set up blog - e-mail blog URL to sumnerwinter2201@gmail.com
Read Chapter 1 - "Reading a Story"
Complete all the questions in the chapter. (pages 6, 8, 19-20)
Post responses on blog - at least two hours before class on Tuesday.

YouTube - Joyce Carol Oates - On Writing Characters

2009-09-02T08:02:00.001-07:00

YouTube - Joyce Carol Oates - On Writing Characters

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Welcome!

2009-08-31T13:34:00.000-07:00

This is the blog for Wendy Sumner-Winter's Literary Heritage class at The University of Memphis. I'm glad you're here. Please feel free to engage in conversation with us, but remember that this blog is an educational tool for college students. I invite and welcome passion and fervor, but I do not welcome intolerance or incompetence.

During this semester, we will be approaching the study of literature through the theme of Heroes and Monsters. We will see many iterations of these motifs, both expected and unexpected.