Luck Club Essay Example for Free

Luck Club Essay Published in 1989, The Joy Luck Club is the first novel written by Amy Tan that narrates about the lives of four Chinese-American immigrant families who are living in the United States. â€Å"Two Kinds† is one of the chapters in this book that focuses on the conflict between a mother and a daughter as a result of generation gap and cultural differences. Shu-Huei Henrickson, an instructor of English at Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois, wrote a criticism on the novel and explores the reasons for the popularity of The Joy Luck Club and the various narrative techniques used by the author to give life to the conflict and resentment that arise between a mother and a daughter in the novel. In his criticism, Hendrickson initially introduced the background of the author and listed the novels that she has written. A comparison was also made between Amy Tan’s narrative style and that of other ethnic authors in the Asian American Literature. He believes that the success of the novel is due to Tan’s excellent treatment of the mother/daughter relationship. Normally texts of mother/daughter focus on the daughter’s struggles for identity and the mothers supporting role position. In the case of this novel, the central focus is on the lives of the mothers. Hendrickson quoted another critic, Maria Heung’s description of The Joy Luck Club who said, â€Å"What distinguishes Tan’s text from other ethnic novels is the ‘foregrounding of the voices of mothers as well as of daughters’. † This unique style makes The Joy Luck Club an outstanding Asian American literature. Hendrickson further analyzes Amy Tan’s narrative techniques. He pointed out that the author’s first narrative technique uses multiple points of view in recounting the stories. In these four pairs of mothers and daughters’ stories, there are sixteen interlocking tales. The stories are divided into two parts, one for the daughters and one for the mothers. â€Å"The mothers are all depicted as strong and determined women who play significant roles in the daughters’ lives. † Hendrickson considers this as a unique technique. In Jing-Mei Woo’s story (Two Kinds), a high standard of maternal expectation is manifested as Jing Mei’s mother forces her to practice playing the piano. This vivid depiction shows the significant role of the mother in the story. Through the significant presence of the mothers, Tan reinforces the conflict between the mothers and daughters that stems from their cultural and generation differences. In addition, misunderstanding arises due to their linguistic differences. Hendrickson believes that the central theme of The Joy Luck Club is the lack of shared languages and cultural logic between the Chinese immigrant mothers and the American-born daughters. Nevertheless, the mothers are not given any insignificant roles in the stories and their concerns are noteworthy in this novel. The second narrative technique that Hendrickson pointed out is the presence of realistic dialogues. In the story, the mothers are speaking imperfect English. Tan directly captures these dialogues and clearly shows it to the readers. Thus, the linguistic and cultural differences between the mothers and daughters are directly felt throughout the story. This is one of the remarkable features of the novel. Hendrickson also criticized the racial identity and the concluding part of Jing-Mei’s story. However, this part will not be discussed since it is no longer related to the chapter, â€Å"Two Kinds†. Hendrickson considers the mothers in The Joy Luck Club as â€Å"heroines†. They are different in comparison with other Asian American literature that has portrayed them as discreet and modest. Because of their significant presence and Tan’s unique narrative techniques, The Joy Luck Club is considered as a special and excellent literary work. Response: The chapter, â€Å"Two Kinds† may provide us with a minute idea of the existing conflict between two generations of women who were raised in two different environments – the mothers in an oriental country and the daughters in a western environment. However, without the benefit of viewing the film and reading the novel, one would not be able to imbibe the conflicting reality of seeing families of the same race living in conflict as a result of generation and cultural differences. Fortunately, I have seen the film, â€Å"The Joy Luck Club† a few years ago and without a doubt, the movie is great. Although I have not read the entire book, I could only imagine the novel to be as good if not better. Personally, I agree with the critic, Shu-Huei Hendrickson’s opinion in the conflict between Suyuan (mother) and Jing-Mei (daughter). The daughter, Jing-Mei was born in the United States while the mother, Suyuan was born in China, and later immigrated to the US. In most family situations, mothers and daughters tend to establish a close bond but this kind of relationship was not present between Suyuan and Jing-Mei. Both were emotionally apart and they have not developed a close relationship. Since Jing-Mei was raised in a country where freedom of choice abounds, her young mind could not accept her mother’s desire to have a daughter who is willing to obey and follow everything that a mother says. Forcing her to take piano lessons against her wishes only made their relationship worst. On the other hand, Suyuan does not understand her daughter’s desire to establish her own identity and independence. For Suyuan, the road to success in the US requires one to speak the American language fluently. Hence, she compelled Jing-Mei to speak in perfect English. Suyuan desires the best for her daughter as she does not want her to experience the painful life that she had in China. This however was not fully accepted by Jing-Mei. Language barrier and cultural gap has widened the difference between the mother and the daughter. Suyuan’s dream of giving Jing-Mei the best of life is often misunderstood by her daughter who wanted to be free from the clutches of her mother. Since I am a student from China, I can relate to the story than most American readers. Suyuan’s hopes and dreams for her daughter are common among parents in my country. In China, people do not enjoy the freedom to do whatever they want. We are not given the opportunity to achieve our dreams. When we set foot in the United States, we want to identify with the Americans and embrace the country that is known as the land of freedom and hope. Our thirst for freedom is so intense. Chinese-American people who were born in the US like Jing-Mei have never experienced the life of those who lived in China during the nineteenth century where freedom never exist and people’s lives were in the hands of the communist government. I agree with Hendrickson’s view that Amy Tan uses the first narrative technique in writing her novel effectively. She uses many dialogues that project the voices of mothers and daughters. I can also relate to the challenges of trying to speak English fluently while thinking and translating Chinese words into English when I saw the scene where Suyuan speaks imperfect American English while shouting these words to Jing-Mei, â€Å"Only ask you be your best. For your sake. You think I want you be genius? Hnnh! What for! Who ask you! † Amy Tan has mastered the use of narrative technique in ways that many writers could not imagine. Her unique and effective techniques have drawn many readers to read her novel, watch the movie and relate to the challenges of two generations of women who are living in the land where freedom abounds and dreams turn into reality.

Away with the Canon -- Onward with Street-Smarts :: Education Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Away with the Canon, Onward with Street-Smarts When you think of education, the thing that probably comes to mind first, is the institution of formal education, i.e., primary, secondary and then higher education. We have this closed perception that education has to be formal, and nothing else. Often times we, as human beings, tend to weigh things too heavily on formal education. We frown upon the fact that if a person doesnt choose to go and become educated in the traditional way, they wont be able to make something of themselves in their lives. Personally, I strongly disagree. As Jon Spayed, Learning in the Key of Life, put it, there are many ways to become an educated American, as there are Americans (Spayde 63). The method in which an individual chooses to become educated, is as unique as the human individual is in itself. Education should not just be based on the traditional Books of the canon including: Dante, Shakespeare, Aristotle, Sophocles, Locke, Dickens and Faulkner, but it should strive towards making an equally balanced student, which it doesnt seem to be doing. Spayde argues in the favor of an in-the-streets education. Granted, an in-the-streets education cant take the place of a formal education, I feel strongly, that having and knowing street smarts can get you far in the 21st. Century. From a formal education, one is taught from the traditional canon. This canon consists the Great Books that have been chosen to help educate our young people to help them become great things in life. Basically, one is taught in a way that tries to mold them into becoming this great thinker of the times, when in actuality, one is being taught things that are way out of date. They are being taught to use their brains in a very narrow way-not opening them up to other thoughts and ideas. According to Mike Rose, Lives on the Boundary: ...canonized curriculum students would most not likely receive a common core of American Experience (Rose 115). Basically, the canon doesnt teach you the life skills that you need in this day and age, a.k.a., street-smarts as Spayde calls them. To not receive the common core of American experience is depriving yourself of so much, all of the experiences that you cant learn and get from a formal education. Another component to formal education that really isnt extremely vital, are the humanities.

Family Value Paper Essay

Family is a term that can be defined differently by every person. In health care, family does not always mean individuals related by blood; instead, a family is seen as a support system to an individual that is in a state of compromised health (Friedman, Bowden, & Jones 2003). The family’s role in a healthcare setting can vary depending on the client’s condition. In the intensive care unit, the family plays a big role, especially for the patients who lose their abilities to provide self-care and make decisions. On the contrary, the family’s role is different in a step-down unit, in which clients are in a more stable condition. As a healthcare worker, it is important to understand the role of family concept, family system, and the application of an appropriate family nursing theory. Concept of Family in Health Promotion: Families come in many different sizes and dynamics. Family is more than individuals living under the same roof. It is a support system for all aspects of health. A healthy family can play a big role in a family member’s health recovery by coming together as one support system to promote healing and help the individual achieve health goals, since one key function of the family system in healthcare includes health promotion and prevention (Friedman, Bowden, & Jones 2003). However, families react and manage issues connected to healthcare based on values and culture. According to Friedman, Bowden, and Jones (2003), â€Å"health behaviors, attitudes, and values are learned in the family† (P. 49). In addition, according to Ross, Mirowsky, and Goldsteen (1990), â€Å"a family is an economic unit bound together by emotional tie, and health is described as a state of emotional and physical well-being† (P. 159). Therefore, the family system is a well-balanced unit, and the relations found in a family system are so complicatedly tied together that a little change in any one part surely results in changes in the whole family system (Friedman, Bowden, & Jones 2003). Concept Used in Area of Nursing Practice: The concept of family most used in a hospital setting is family as context. Depending on the family dynamics and the support from family members, family can be viewed as a resource to the patient, and in some cases family can be  viewed as a stressor. However, in most cases, family plays an important role in the environment and care of a patient. Working in the Oncology/ Intensive care unit (ICU) Step-Down Unit, I have learned that the family support is very important for the patient and staff as well. In my unit, the nursing staff considers the clients and their families as one unit, and they care for them as a unit. Most of the clients have either chronic diseases or terminal illnesses, and they bounce back into the hospital quickly. Families are constantly being educated because most of the time, there is the question of compliance with the treatment regimen. For example, if a congestive heart failure (CHF) patient takes their medication, such as diuretics, on time, follows a low-salt diet, and keeps up with their physician appointment on a regular schedule, then they will not have to be in the hospital all the time with a fluid overload and shortness of breath problems. Families are education along with patients through lectures and reading material. Therefore, everyone is aware of the benefits and risks of health promotion. Sometimes, we also discharge patients home on ventilators from my unit. Ventilators require a large amount of education from the nursing staff to make sure the families are ready with all the necessary information and education needed to provide quality care of their loved ones at home. Family members are included in the plan of care and patient care from the day of hospitalization. Therefore, when it is time for discharge, family members and patients are ready. Theory Conducive to Area of Nursing Practice: Florence Nightingale’s environmental theory is very helpful in my area of nursing practice. She stresses the important of environmental factors in illness and health (Selanders, 2010). This theory is best because in the ICU Step-Down Unit, the environment is very important. Most of the patients are on ventilators that breath for them or have trouble breathing. Therefore, the environment around them must be as normal as possible. The rooms must be kept organized, clean, and odorless from scents such as bleach, perfume, or cologne. These patients are connected with many lines, wires, and cords. All lines, cords, and wires must be arranged to keep the patients free from injury, and they must also be plugged into emergency outlets only in case there is ever a power failure. During discharge planning, especially for  patients who are on ventilators, it is important that the nursing staff and discharge planner assesses the home environment and patient’s safety at home. The home environment must be checked for an adequate power supply to maintain the ventilator machine. Conclusion Whenever an individual is hospitalized, no matter how sick he or she is, the emotional stress on the patient and the family can be very overwhelming. In nursing, we care for clients and their families. The family system plays an important role in promoting, preventing, and recovering a family member’s health. We, as healthcare providers, must involve the family into nursing care. Also, practicing nursing care based on theories such as those of Florence Nightingale can help healthcare providers to make sure that they have done everything for the positive outcome of the patient’s health and safety. References Friedman, M.M., Bowden, V.R., & Jones, E.G. (2003). Family nursing: Research, Theory, & Practice (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice – Hall. Ross, C., Mirowsky, J., & Goldesteen, K. (1990, November). The Impact of Family on Health: The Decade in Review. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 52(), 1058-1060. Selanders, L.C. (2010, March). The Power of Environmental adaptation: Florence Nightingale’s Original Theory for Nursing Practice. Journal of Holistic Nursing, 28(1), 81-88.

A previously written monologue of ‘Our Sammy’, which is from the Blood Brothers play

For our development section of the course we are asked to perform a monologue. This could either be a previously written monologue of ‘Our Sammy', which is from the Blood Brothers play, or to write up our own monologue which relates to the play ‘Blood Brothers'. I decided to write my own monologue, because It gave me the chance to be original, and to express what I interpret what the characters are feeling, so that I could put it into my own words and to block the piece how I wanted it to be performed. The ‘monologue' word comes from the Greek words â€Å"mono† and â€Å"logos† which means â€Å"one word†, it is a linguist act designed to transport/convey information by one person directly addressing the audience. In a monologue the thespian needs to be alone, however, none of the other cast speaks. Although when an actor/actress is alone, perhaps thinking out loud, this is a soliloquy, not a monologue. There are two basic types of monologue that can be performed, these are a; Exterior monologue: Whereby the actor speaks to another person, who is not in the performance space and who is not in the audience. Interior Monologue: This is where the actor speaks to himself or herself. It is examining their own sensory and perceptual experiences and reveals the inner motives/thoughts to the audience. This is commonly used in stream of consciousness (stream of consciousness indicates a library technique (works of fiction using certain techniques to tell a story)) writing. A monologue is an art form in and of its self, but it is always part of a bigger, dialogue-based play. It is a provision of another point or angle in relating to the audience and revealing the character's inner life, motives and emotions. My own written monologue is about Edward just after he's meet Mickey, it shows his emotions towards Mickey, how incredible the coincidence is that they have the same birth date and how angry/annoyed he feels toward Mrs Lyons and Mrs Johnstone when whenever they meet they instantly split them up and stop them playing. My Monologue: Born on the same day, fancy that? July the 18th, so we made a pact Blood brothers forever joined by blood Forever more standing by him And he's standing by me He's a jolly old chap, he's smashing great The F word, a plate in his head But most of all being PISSED OFF!! He's super fun but dead careful he knows How to play count to ten and you'll be on your way†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ That's his favourite game But I'm not allowed to play anymore Because mummy says so Whenever we meet, Mrs Johnstone or mummy splits us up An excuse, bed time or something like that But I don't mind because were blood brothers Blood brothers forever and ever so it's all alright. So when mummy comes and spoils the fun I really†¦. really want her to†¦to†¦ F off!!!! But it's not fair she always wins And anyway I'm only seven Only seven and a bit†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦

The Relationship between Eliezer and his Father

The Relationship between Eliezer and his Father Change is inevitable and the relationship between Eliezer and his father in Night transforms drastically. The young boy and his father go through much suffering in concentration camp. The experience at the concentration camp changes the relationship between son and father and the despicable treatment by the Nazis help Eliezer and his father develop a strong bond.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Relationship between Eliezer and his Father specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As the story begins the relation between Eliezer and his father is very weak. It does not reflect a normal relationship between a father and a son. Eliezer even thinks that his father cares for others more than his family â€Å"He was more concerned with others than with his own family† (Wiesel 2). Moreover, his father does not support him in his religious quest. Thus Eliezer finds Moshe, a teacher to teach him the Cabbala something that do es not go well with his father who condemns him for his preoccupation with the Cabbala. Their relationship is strained but soon it changes as their circumstances change. Once the two are taken to a concentration camp along with many others their relationship, begin to become close. The reason for the change is the loss of the rest of their family members, and they are only left with each other. The horrendous days and the atrocious treatment they receive at camp Auschwitz bring them closer as they learn to depend on one another for their mere survival. They develop a strong connection, and support one another as they go through hard times in the camp. For instance, while at the camp after his father is deemed too weak to work and taken to the side of those to go the crematorium Eliezer runs to him and in the confusion that ensue both slip back to the safe side. Furthermore, his father learns to value his son and show him affection as he tells his son not to worry and go to sleep, Do n’t be afraid, son. Sleep- I’ll look after you myself† (Weisel 85). Eliezer has learned to depend on his father and will do anything to keep him by his side. He even prays to God despite of his loss of faith in a God who seems quiet in the midst of their suffering the prisoners are going through in the camp, for the strength never to leave his father as he had sons do to their fathers. He asks God to enable him stay with his father as he had seen Rabbi abandon his father, â€Å"My God, Lord of the Universe, give me the strength never to do what Rabbi Eliahou’s son has done† (Wiesel 87). Father and son strive to survive for the sake of one another as none can imagine how life would be for the other if they died.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Eliezer protects his father and does not sacrifice him for his own survival as so many s ons had done to their sons for their own survival. However, as days pass by he starts to feel some resentment toward his father especially when he is unable to protect himself from the cruelty of the guards instead of pitying him. Moreover, towards the end of the book on their way to Buchenwald, his father becomes very weak and cannot move maybe because of fatigue or lose of hope. He leaves his father and sleeps deeply and when he wakes up, he cannot find him and searches for him half-heartedly because a thought tells him maybe he can increase his chance of survival if he were alone. Fortunately, he finds him, Father! I’ve been looking for you for so long†¦Where were you? Did you sleep?How do you feel?† (Wiesel 101). He still cares about his father and guilt eats him for his behavior especially when he considers eating the food instead of sharing it with his father. Eliezer is slowly becoming estranged from his father due to the harsh situation but he stands by his father who suffers from dysentery. Finally, his father passes on, and he feels a sign of relief and does not cry. However, the experience at the camp and their deep concern for one another that develops overtime helps them to survive and not fall into the temptation of self-preservation that makes a son turn against his father and kill him. Their relationship grows strong albeit Eliezer’s thoughts that he would be better off without his father as the two experience a deep bond that changes both of their lives as they struggle to survive. Work Cited Wiesel, Elie. Night. MacGibbon Kee: New York, 1982.

How to Manage and ID Japanese Maple

How to Manage and ID Japanese Maple Japanese maple is one of the most versatile trees for any yard, patio, or garden. Often grown for its unique 7-palmed green or red colored leaf, the maple also has an interesting growth habit, with a fine leaf texture and muscular-looking multiple trunks. Japanese maples have extraordinary fall colors that range from bright yellow through orange and red, and is often striking, even on trees grown in total shade. Specifics Scientific name: Acer palmatum Pronunciation: AY-ser pal-MAY-tum Family: Aceraceae USDA hardiness zones: USDA hardiness zones: 5B through 8 Origin: not native to North America Uses: Bonsai; container or above-ground planter; near a deck or patio; trainable as a standard; specimen Availability: generally available in many areas within its hardiness range Physical Description Height: 15 to 25 feet Spread: 15 to 25 feet Crown uniformity: symmetrical  canopy  with a regular (or smooth)  outline  and individuals have more or less identical crown forms Crown shape: round; vase shape Crown density: moderate Growth rate: slow Texture: medium Foliage Descriptions Leaf arrangement: opposite/subopposite Leaf type: simple Leaf margin: lobed; serrate Leaf shape: star-shaped Leaf venation: palmate Leaf type and persistence: deciduous Leaf blade length: 2 to 4 inches Leaf color: green Fall color: copper; orange; red; yellow Fall characteristic: showy Popular Maple Cultivars There are many cultivars of Japanese maple with a wide variety of leaf shapes and color, growth habits, and sizes. Here are some of the most popular: Atropurpureum - has reddish leaves with only five lobes  Bloodgood - new foliage is bright red, some leaves darkening to a dim green  Burgundy Lace - reddish foliage with cut leaf (sinus nearly down to the petiole)Dissectum - finely dissected leaves in green or red, growing 10 to 12 feet tall  Elegans - leaves with rose-colored margins when they first unfold  Ornatum - leaf is beautifully cut and reddish Trunk and Branch Descriptions Trunk/bark/branches: bark is thin and easily damaged from mechanical impact; droop as the tree grows, and will require pruning for vehicular or pedestrian clearance beneath the canopy; routinely grown with, or trainable to be grown with, multiple trunks; showy trunk; no thorns Pruning requirement: requires pruning to develop a strong structure Breakage: resistant Current year twig color: green; reddish Current year twig thickness: thin Pruning a Maple Most maples, if in good health and free to grow, need very little pruning. Only train for developing a leading (or multiple) shoot(s) which will eventually establish the trees framework. Maples should not be pruned in spring and could bleed profusely. Wait to prune until late summer to early autumn and only on a young tree. A habit should be encouraged in which the branches develop low and grow up at sharp angles. If suckering of green-leaved root stock occurs below the graft line on your red-leafed grafted variety, remove the green sprout immediately. Japanese Maple Culture Light requirements: tree grows best in part shade/part sun but can also handle the shade. Soil tolerances: clay; loam; sand; slightly alkaline; acidic; well-drained Drought tolerance: moderate Aerosol salt tolerance: none Soil salt tolerance: moderate Common Pests Aphids can infest Japanese maples and heavy populations can cause leaf drop or a dripping of honeydew. Scales can be a problem. Neither insect will cause the tree to die. If borers become active, it probably means you have an already sick tree. Keep the tree healthy. Leaf scorch  may become a problem during periods of high temperatures accompanied by wind. Planting Japanese maple in a bit of shade will help. Keep trees well-watered during dry periods. Symptoms of scorch and drought are tan dead areas on foliage. Bottom Line The growing habit of a Japanese maple varies widely depending on cultivar. From globose (round or spherical form) branching to the ground, to upright to vase-shaped, the maple is always a delight to look at. The globose selections look best when they are allowed to branch to the ground. Be sure to clear all turf away from beneath the branches of these low growing types so the lawn mower will not damage the tree. The more upright selections make a nice patio or small shade trees for residential lots. A large selection or compact cultivars make wonderful accents for any landscape. Japanese maple tends to leaf out early, so it may be injured by spring frosts. Protect them from drying winds and direct sun by providing exposure to partial or filtered shade and well-drained, acid soil with plenty of organic matter, particularly in the southern part of its range. Leaves often scorch in hot summer weather in USDA hardiness zones 7b and 8, unless they are in some shade or irrigated during dry weather. More direct sun can be tolerated in the northern part of the range. Be sure drainage is maintained and never allow water to stand around the roots. The tree grows fine on clay soils as long as the ground is sloped so water does not accumulate in the soil. It responds well to several inches of mulch placed beneath the canopy.

The importance of music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The importance of music - Essay Example I have wanted to learn to play an instrument and had actually taken up piano lessons and guitar lessons but I never quite stuck to it. Nevertheless, without having produced music personally, I continue to love it as a part of my existence. Being part of some school recital where I have to belt out a few short tunes, much to my shame is unavoidable when I was younger. I find nothing wrong in admitting that when I was younger I am a fan of popular music that included boy bands and teen stars. For a while I had been among those die-hard fans that had pictures of singers on their desktop page. Even to this day, I have moments when I enjoy the simple pleasures of listening to One Direction, Katy Perry or Taylor Swift. I actually do have in my play list Story of my Life, Dark Horse, and White Horses, respectively just to name a few. My preference in music is an indication of my diverse personality. I believe that music, like our mood and feelings, changes from day to day and as we grow up. But there will always be artists who will remain with us throughout. When I am having a really good day and I just have that feeling of wanting to dance, I would play something by Zedd like Clarity or Stay the Night, mixing that in with some songs like Levels or Silhouettes by Avicii. I love these songs because though they are house music and are particularly heard on backdrops of clubs and dance parties, listening to the lyrics actually brings out the depth of the songs and the composition actually makes them more interesting.