In the “Marriage Proposal” by Chekhov a comedic yet raveling approach is taken to display a common trope still prevalent in todays society. Marriage is a tradition as old as time that has unified nations, peoples, and families. But much like in Chekhov’s play, its also something that hasn’t really evolved as one might of thought. Marriage to many is still this grandiose event that is regarded as the hallmark in ones life. A tradition that a man and women must uphold at least once within their lives. And because of how most people only marry once, an importance on the proposal is taken. Sometimes even more than the reason they should be getting married for. All the more, The play still holds fast to this train of thought and much like our ancestors that have been seeking oaths into one another , is a reflection of both modern and past views on Marriage. Decades, Centuries, and Eons the act of marriage is one that has come in many forms, each subservient to whatever culture its taking place. Yet in the vast world we live in, a call to the one deep desire in humanity is symbolized through marriage. A sense of unification.
All posts by Angel Vasquez
This is what it means to say…
In “This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona” by Sherman Alexie we see the government/rulership follow that of a tribal governance system. The tribe is the primary unit of government, and leadership is determined by a council of elders or other traditional leaders. Some of the characteristics of this type of government are that it is decentralized and focused on the needs of the tribe as a whole, rather than the interests of any one individual or group. We see this when the victor goes to the tribe to ask for money and they collectively make a decision to only afford to give him 100$ dollars. As an allegorical figure, Thomas-build-a-fire represents the struggle of Native Americans to retain their cultural identity and traditions in the face of external pressures. Throughout the short story, we see Thomas grappling with his identity as a Native American and his relationship to his culture and community for the stories he would tell about his dreams and visions. He becomes an outcast that even by the end of the film loses his friendship with victor as he himself doesn’t want to become a outcast like Thomas-build-a-fire
Drama/Theater, Dunbar-Nelson
Moral criticism is a form of literary analysis that focuses on the ethical and moral implications of a work of literature. This approach is often associated with the philosopher Plato, who believed that literature should teach piety and virtue, and should be uplifting to society. In the case of Alice Dunbar-Nelson’s play “Mine Eyes Have Seen,” it is difficult to say whether the work exemplifies moral criticism or defies it. On one hand, the play could be seen as depicting the lowest strata of human behavior, which might be considered corrupting to citizens. On the other hand, the play could also be seen as holding a mirror up to nature, showing the harsh realities of society and the struggles of marginalized individuals. A case can be made for both. Although I believe the latter, we see the true nature of humanity and its dire need for justice when the injustice arrives. Is depiction of evil/injustice in it of itself wrong? Or could it help to push the reader to further grasp the consequences it could have on the second party. Or in this instance the marginalized group in the play “Mine Eyes Have Seen”.
Ultimately, the interpretation of the play’s moral implications will depend on the individual reader and their own personal values and beliefs. Some may see the play as upholding Plato’s vision of literature as a teaching tool for virtue and piety, while others may see it as defying this vision by depicting the harsh realities of life. In either case, the play is likely to spark debate and discussion about the role of literature in shaping our understanding of ethics and morality.
Chopin
The race of a writer can matter when the narrative deals with issues of race, as the writer’s personal experiences and perspective can shape the way they portray these issues in their writing. In the case of Kate Chopin, her background as a white woman from a family of slave owners and her marriage to someone in the cotton industry may have influenced the way she addressed racism in her short story. While it is important for all voices to be heard and for diverse perspectives to be represented, it is also crucial for writers to be aware of their own biases and to consider the potential impact of their race on the way they portray issues of race in their writing. In some cases, writers may choose to step back and allow voices from marginalized communities to take the lead in telling their own stories. Ultimately, the race of the writer should not be the sole determining factor in whether their work is valuable or valid. What is most important is the quality and authenticity of the writing, and whether it accurately and thoughtfully addresses the issues at hand.
Armand
After witnessing his wife, whom he loved dearly from the day he laid his eyes on her, leave their house distressed and in pain. Armand questioned if that was truly the right decision. “I mean I had to, otherwise no one would take me seriously as a slave master.” Armand reminded himself as he sat idly on what his life had become. The women he called his wife, the women he would stare passionately into, was something that society wouldn’t accept nor allow. A slave master that married his own slave, how could his family name go on. Surely it wasn’t the case but with the boy and his complexion, it would only be a matter of time before others would begin to question his authority as a slave master and more so the right to own the very land his family had passed down. Armand could feel his heart heavy knowing that the women he truly loved would never be seen again nor would his child feel the love of a father.
Parenting
Children are like sponges, soaking up everything they hear and see, and their developing minds can be easily influenced by the words and actions of the adults around them. It is important for parents and elders in families to be careful about what they say around young children. For the most part, it is best for parents and elders to be honest with children, but to also consider the child’s age and maturity level when determining how much information to share. For younger children, it may be appropriate to shield them from harsh realities and to focus on the positive aspects of a situation. For older children, however, it may be important to be more forthcoming and to help them understand and cope with difficult situations. It should also be noted that parents and elders being more mindful of their own language and behavior around children creates a healthier in general. Children learn by example, so it is crucial for adults to set a good example by speaking and acting in a way that is respectful and kind. Like most things in life, the key is to strike a balance between honesty and protection, and to tailor one’s words and actions to the child’s age and needs. It is also important for parents and elders to remain open and approachable, so that children feel comfortable coming to them with questions and concerns. Generally speaking an approach that leads to children becoming much more reasonable and level headed as they approach their teenage years and young adult life.
Writing as Activism
Writing can still be a powerful means of activism for BIPOC in present day America. Through the written word, BIPOC can share their experiences, raise awareness about issues affecting their communities, and call for change. Writing can also be a way for BIPOC to reclaim their narrative and counter the dominant, often distorted, narrative about them that is often perpetuated in mainstream media. Social media can also amplify outreach quickly and efficiently . BIPOC writers can use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to share their thoughts and ideas, and to engage with others who are interested in similar issues. They can also use these platforms to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations and to mobilize support for causes they care about. Writing can be a powerful tool for BIPOC to raise awareness, challenge dominant narratives, and call for change. Its an outlet to the purest form of human communication when a greater call for said issue is needed in the most transparent and human way possible
Erasure Poem
Where I’m From
I am from my Abuelita,
From where bachata is heard far and wide,
I am from a land that shimmers like gold,
Where the sun glimmers ,
Touching the nation and sea year round.
I am from the beach,
As the sand sweeps between our feet, while the saltwater
Splashes against the heat.
I am from the Guira and Guitarra
The soothing rhythmic beats that make up our hearts.
Even the roosters sing and have their part.
I am from Tres leches
The only place where one kind of milk isn’t enough,
For our cakes
I am from the land of the Lord,
Where we give praises everyday
With family and grace..
I am from the Dominican Republic,
From Queso frito to caramel cakes.
Our foods unite us and who we strive to be
I am from the love that keep us together
Through joy and tragedy.
Gods got us, fully.
For he only is my rock and my salvation,
My fortress.
