Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Fictional Characters

People find Jack Bauer so intriguing because he is a man who is in complete control, and we are a world who has and will never see that. 24 appeals to both liberal and conservative viewers, it is a show that contains extreme conflicts that sadly our nation has faced. 24 first aired the same year as 9/11, about 2 months after the attacks. I think that as a country at war we want to see success even if it is fictionalized on FOX. What I find so fascinating about Jack is that when he is in a situation where he has to make a decision, but both choices are bad, he finds a way to choose the one with the softest aftermath, and he takes complete responsibility for his actions. I love this, because I am a person who makes up excuses a lot, and it amazes me what selfless acts he does to help others.

Bugs Bunny is one of the most recognizable characters in pop culture. I think what appeals most people to him is how he defies authority, but the way he does it, along with his personality makes it impossible for you not to love him. Sure, things might be different if he wasn't a cartoon, and Daffy Duck actually did get his beak shot off, but you have to put that aside. His character never brings people fear or hate.

If I were going to choose a character that I have particular interest in, I would choose Jack Bauer, because he is my star. Since I have already written about Jack I will choose Cinderella. Cinderella is important to our culture because it is one of the most popular stories ever written. I like Cinderella because she is kind to everyone, even though her life sucks. Although I am aware this is almost never the case in reality, her story shows people that the sun comes out after the storm. It gives those who have had a difficult past that there is hope, and it is possible for them to see the light, and that in time everyone will get what they deserve.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Stories

Part 1: Stories are important in childhood because they teach kids important, but simple values to live by. For example, sharing, kindness, listening, respect, etc. Kids respond well to stories because they're usually accompanied by bright, colorful pictures that catch their eye.

Part 2: People read stories later in life simply because many people find it entertaining. Some stories contain a plot line that may be similar to something going on in their life at that time, and it can be comforting to think of other people who have experienced the same thing that you have if you are struggling with it.

Part 3: I'm not exactly sure why stories are so important in our nation, but maybe when stories create controversy people are more interested them, like Catcher in the Rye or Huck Finn.

Part 4: The stories from my childhood that stand out are the Carl books. Though they don't actually have words, it was a fun way for my mom and I to create our own stories together, and they could be different each time.

Part 5:

1. a developing plot line that makes sense, flows well
2. good chemistry between characters, seems natural
3. pictures that connect to the story, represent who the character is (picture books)
4. message that is open and teaches the reader something
5. connects to the reader personally
6. interesting way of writing that is different and unique (but not too over the top)
7. clever ideas, not basic, outside of the box thinking, makes the reader think outside the box as well