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Violence in Romeo and Juliet --> 29.10.25

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Violence in Romeo and Juliet --> 29.10.25

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Reflection Task:

I focused on Act 1, Scene 1 from Romeo and Juliet because I felt that it connects to the theme of violence very strongly, as the play opens with a street fight. I decided to use a more tabloid style of article in order to create sensationalism and draw in readers. I feel that my choices of quotations are very effective, not only because I think that they effectively illustrate my points, but also because I believe that they add pathos and further enhance the ethos of my article. I tried to depict the scene as a more 'pro-Montague' stance by clearly depicting the Capulets as beginning the fight, and the Montagues of doing as society expects by rising to the challenge. However, I did try to protray a heavy 'pro-Prince' stance at the end to convey that I felt both houses were ultimately in the wrong.

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White and Black Professional Magazine Cover

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What is media?

Media refers to the various channels and technologies that are used to communicate and connect people. However, like many in academia, the definition of 'media' is also up to the individual, and their interpretation of the word. Traditional forms of media include newspapers, television, film, as well as modern digital platforms such as social media, and messaging apps. Websites can also be considered a form of media.

How is language used in the media?

Language in the media is used to inform entertain, persuade, and influence audiences. It also works on multiple levels such as:

Sound and pronunciation- formal RP accents in older news broadcasts that put up boundaries between presenters and audience, vs regional accents and "vernacular" speech/phrases today

Word choice and tone- formal broadcasts vs informal broadcasts that are used to connect more with audience

Grammar and structure- passive voice is often used to hide responsibility and shift blame

Context and meaning- connotations vary depending on social and political context

Why is the medium in which we choose to communicate important?

The medium helps to shape how messages are received and understood. They can also help to shape the audiences' interpretation of the presenter/establishment, as well as any parties involved with the messages.

"The medium is the message"

Different media influence how language is used- text messages compared to TV news

They also affect who can participate and how inclusive communication is- like RP pronunciation making many feel excluded and as though they couldn't do the same job.

Some media are more interactive- social media allows audience feedback (and participation to a certain extent), while others are one-way ( like traditional TV channel news)

Technology and human use together determine the impact and reach of a message

Source your own non-literary text type that responds to a global issue or explores the concept of diversity

Done on paper

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Post Reading Questions:

1. The obituary places emphasis on the Pope's humility, compassion and role of a reformer within the Roman Catholic Church. It also highlights his many historic firsts- he first pope from the Americas, the Southern Hemisphere, the developing world, and the first Jesuit pope — to highlight how he broke long-standing traditions and brought a new perspective to the papacy. His deep concern for the poor and marginalised, shown through his namesake of Saint Francis of Assisi, is portrayed as central to his identity. The author writes about his moral leadership on many global issues, such as his calls for peace in both Ukraine and Gaza. The author also emphasises how Pope Francis connected with the faithful, offering hope and empathy at a time of crisis within the Church.

2. The author balances Pope Francis' achievements with the challenges he faced, through the acknowledgement of the controversies around his papacy, whilst not sensationalising them. The obituary mentions the ongoing child abuse sex scandal and other contentious issues like priestly celibacy, marriage, and sexuality, it frames the former Pope as someone who was willing to engage in conversations that other popes had avoided. The author centres on his compassionate leadership, instead of his radical reforms, and how he shifted and altered the tone of the Church, even if traditional doctrines remained largely unchanged. This approach respects the solemn nature of an obituary while offering a nuanced view of a pope who led during a turbulent time.

3. The tone of the obituary is respectful, solemn, and admiring, in keeping with the gravity of a pope’s passing. This tone is established through both the language and structure of the piece. The obituary opens with a formal announcement of Pope Francis’s death, including a quote from Cardinal Kevin Farrell that uses reverent language like “returned to the house of the Father” and “dedicated to the service of the Lord,” setting a spiritual and respectful tone. The use of religious and emotional language elevates Pope Francis’s life to one of noble service and divine mission.

Structurally, the obituary begins with the news of his death and then transitions into a reflection on his life, achievements, and moral leadership. This chronological and thematic organisation creates a narrative arc that honours his memory. Achievements are listed in a celebratory tone — especially the many firsts of his papacy — while controversies are mentioned carefully so as not to sensationalise his death.

4. The obituary includes some symbolic references and subtle anecdotal elements that contribute to the portrayal of Pope Francis as a compassionate and humble leader. One symbolic reference is the choice of the name Francis after Saint Francis of Assisi, a figure renowned for his ministry to the poor and marginalised. This serves as a powerful symbol for the Pope's values, showing that from the outset of his papacy, he chose to align himself with humility, and service. It also highlights his entire approach to leadership- rooted in empathy and social justice.

An anecdotal moment is the mention of Pope Francis continuing to speak with a Catholic parish in Gaza, even while hospitalised for pneumonia. This anecdote reflects his dedication to peace and human connection, as well as pastoral care, even in his moments of personal suffering. It reflects his selfless character and humanises him, and his commitment to peace and solidarity. These symbols and anecdotes help shape a portrayal of Francis not just as a religious leader, but as someone who embodied the principles he preached.

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Purple Hibiscus: Assessment Opportunity Research

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Purple Hibiscus: Assessment Opportunity Research

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Article One: ‘How the first coup still haunts Nigeria 50 years on’

1. What is the main purpose of this news article?

The goal of this article is to analyse the effects and repercussions of Nigeria’s first military coup that happened in 1966, and the consequences that shaped Nigeria to make it what it is today. From the title, The author is evaluating how the military coup, Biafran secession attempt, and other ethnic tensions impacted Nigeria’s governance, politics, and national identity. Other issues that are examined are the coup’s influence on contemporary Nigeria, the role of the military in politics, and most prominently, the diversity and the tensions that it causes in Nigeria.

2. Who is the intended audience?

The intended audience for this article are individuals that are keen to know about the Nigerian political system and how historical affairs impact contemporary affairs. It is intended for those who have background knowledge regarding the first coup, as the article talks about it 50 years later.

3. Summarise the literal meaning? What is the article about?

The article is about the military coup that took place on January 15, 1966, in Nigeria, and its resulting political consequences which encompass the Biafran War, inter-tribal conflicts, and the superimposition of military governments. It highlights the consequences of sequential activities, state extrajudicial killings and similar practices. Most of what the state sweeps under the rug is in this article.

4. Reflect: how has Nigeria progressed from the military coup that is presented in Purple Hibiscus

In Purple Hibiscus, Nigeria is at the beginning of the coup, and we see early signs of political suppression, first against the media, then physical suppression and oppression against the Nigerian people. The gradual erosion of freedom leads to physical violence against dissidents, such as Ade Coker, who speak out against the totalitarian rule in the country. Although Nigeria has made some progress, the lingering effects of military rule still impact the politics of the nation as the country continues to battle corruption, ethnic tensions, and the influence of past military leaders, as discussed in the article. Despite the return to civilian governance, true political stability remains uncertain.

5. Reflect: does this ‘progress’ feel secure? If not, why not?

The progress that Nigeria has made does not feel entirely secure. This is because although democracy has been restored, corruption and ethnic tensions remain deeply embedded (as shown from my Cornell Notes Research as well). The article illustrates the Biafra movement and political divisions are also what is keeping this progress quite shaky. These unresolved issues suggest that the progress Nigeria has made is fragile and therefore vulnerable to setbacks, especially with the lingering military influence.

6. Reflect: what ideas from this article will you implement into your own writing

I’d explore how the scars of military rule still shape everyday life, from the government’s grip on power to the unresolved ethnic tensions, as seen through the struggles of characters like Kambili's family. I would also like to try and portray the ongoing influence of past military leaders and the prevalence of corruption would be central themes, showing how Nigeria’s progress is uncertain and fragile, just as the characters in Purple Hibiscus face their own battles for freedom and change.

Article Two: ‘Nigeria Democracy Day’

7. What is the main purpose of this news article?

The main purpose is to explore why a military coup in Nigeria is incredibly unlikely in this day and age, despite the reports of recent coups in other neighboring West African countries. It discussed Nigeria’s shaky transition from military rule to democracy, and the different challenges that the country will need to overcome in terms of governance, democracy, political stability and more. It also highlights the progress made since 1999, as well as the issues that Nigerian citizens (typically young adults) have with the current democratic system.

8. Who is the intended audience?

Global readers, including people who are interested in African politics, current affairs, and democracy. Specifically, the article would probably appeal to those who have an interest in Nigeria’s political development, and democracy and military rule in West Africa.

3. Summarise the literal meaning? What is it about?
The article describes the political situation in Nigeria on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the Return to Democracy in Nigeria in 1999. It contrasts the military rule in the country with its current state of democracy, instead focusing on how many Nigerians are not happy for the economic hardships and failed political promises. It also explains why military rule is unlikely to return to Nigeria and presents alternative perspectives on the state of democracy.

4. What do we learn about the aftermath of the military coup?
An army coup and the consequent military dictatorship gave birth to political oppression, economic ruin, and human right violations tend to be. However, military traces still haunt Nigerian politics even after the return to civilian rule since 1999. On the positive side, the country has improved as far as democracy is concerned, but many people still suffer from real economic problems coupled with discontentment with their political leaders. Many citizens, especially the younger generations, feel disillusioned by democracy, with some even wishing for the old days of military governance supposedly more efficient.

5. Reflect: how has Nigeria progressed from the military coup that is presented in Purple Hibiscus?
Purple Hibiscus is narrated against the backdrop of Nigeria's emerging military rule, conscribed by political repression and tyranny with the censorship and physical repression of citizens. Since that period, Nigeria has moved up to civilian government in 1999 which really came to reverse the years of dictatorship. Indeed, the transition to democracy opened up a fresh page for the citizens in the form of electing leaders. Yet, the nation has been unable to fully realize the creed of democracy owing to the existing economic challenges and the vice of corruption.

6. Reflect: does this ‘progress’ feel secure? If not, why not?
This seems rather insecure. After all, democracy has been there for more than two decades; the challenges it has left in Nigeria are an unstable economy, corruptions, and unfulfilled desires from the general populace, made up particularly of the younger generation. Some people still yearn for the decisiveness and the seeming orderliness of military rule, which simply confirms the fact that they have a lot of misgivings regarding the effective effectiveness of democracy. The gap between the ideals of democracy and the practical challenges of governance leaves the future of Nigeria's political system fraught with uncertainty.

7. Reflect: what ideas from this article will you implement into your own writing? Perhaps that ‘democracy’ provides an alternative, fairer system than a military coup?
It illustrates how military rule is not seen as fair and, therefore, thwarting justice; however, military dictatorships are mostly corrupt, swaying, and resolve-all-your-problems-momentarily right in the very beginning, whereas democracies, though terribly imperfect, appraise freedom through citizen contestation. If I could take one thing away from it, it would be that democracies can shield all of us from serious injustice, even if the situation gets messy. It's an important message to put down on paper, especially when looking comparatively at different forms of government and their societal implications.

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The American Dream is Real. I’m Living Proof- HW --> 29.11.24

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The American Dream is Real. I’m Living Proof- HW --> 29.11.24

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Notes:

Eduardo illustrates the American Dream using his family's immigration story. His parents sacrificed to ensure a better life in the United States.

His father left a career as an oral surgeon in the Dominican Republic and retrained as a technician to support his family. His mother left her homeland and gave birth to Eduardo in New York.

The family's migration from staying in an attic to owning a house in suburban New Jersey shows upward mobility and, therefore, success-the core components of the American Dream.

His parents never had to talk about it because they lived it-through their hard work, sacrifices, and belief in a better future.

Eduardo defends American exceptionalism by citing the ideals of liberty, equality, and freedom that were the basis of America's founding, even though America is not perfect.

He furthered that American identity is an identity of shared ideals, not of ethnicity or birthplace, which makes this country uniquely inclusive.

Eduardo said perhaps immigrants like his parents may be deeper into the American Dream than native-born citizens because they have strived for a better life.

While he does mention the failures of America, he also points to hope in its self-correcting and self-improvement.

Eduardo sums up by encouraging people to be "wide awake" to the ideals of the American Dream, actively working to make them a reality, as his parents did.

Close Reading Questions:

1. Eduardo counters criticism of American exceptionalism by recognising America's flaws and failures of late, but he points out that the country's exceptionalism truly lies in the founding ideals of liberty, equality, and freedom. He says these ideals have evolved and outlived the limitations of the Founders to inspire progress. This counterclaim is successful in shifting the focus from America's imperfections to its enduring ideals, although the effectiveness depends on the belief of the readers of whether such ideals can be fully translated into practice.

2. The sentence "America must be earned" reinforces Eduardo's argument that to be truly American is not about legal citizenship or birthright but about upholding and striving for the founding ideals of the nation. It emphasises that those ideals—liberty, equality, the pursuit of a better future—are things that have to be worked at and committed to. It just adds to his general statement that the American Dream lives and changes, having to be earned and nurtured through the process by genuinely committed sons of its principles. When Eduardo claims that America "must be earned," he is battling the feeling of complacency; the nation has to be obliged to become what it must be.

Discussion Question:

When Eduardo says, "there are ways in which America is truly singular," he refers to the uniqueness of the United States, especially in how it was founded on a set of universal, aspirational ideals-like liberty, equality, and freedom. Unlike many other nations, which may be defined by ethnicity, culture, or geography, America is defined by these principles. Eduardo argues that these ideals give America an identity and a powerful engine of growth, despite the flaws and imperfections in the nation's history. Even as the country has failed to fully live up to these ideals, its founding principles remain a source of hope and inspiration, and they continue to shape America's future.

This idea develops a central theme of the American Dream through the suggestion that the Dream is not about material success, but rather the struggle to live the ideals that make America "singular." Eduardo stresses that anyone can achieve the American Dream regardless of birthplace or background by embracing those core values. He believes it is not citizenship by birth, but a commitment to those ideals that ultimately defines what it is to be American. In such a way, Eduardo's argument highlights the belief in the American Dream as one dynamic, ongoing process of work towards a more just and equal society where everybody gets a chance to reach success based on merit and belief in these founding principles.

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'I Am Not Proof of the American Dream' - HW 22.11.24

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'I Am Not Proof of the American Dream' - HW 22.11.24

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Notes:

Westover’s personal story of overcoming her strict upbringing and achieving academic success is often viewed as a triumph of the American Dream, where hard work leads to upward mobility.

However, she challenges this narrative, acknowledging that while personal effort was important, her success was also shaped by external factors like affordable tuition and financial aid, which are no longer as readily available today.

Her early college years were marked by financial

She highlights the contrast between her experience and that of today’s students. While she could work her way through college with jobs, rising tuition and living costs have made it impossible for many students to afford education, even with multiple jobs.

Westover describes the current state of the American Dream as a "no-win" situation for low-income students. They are pressured to earn a degree, but the rising cost of education means they often graduate with overwhelming debt and uncertain job prospects.

She critiques the idea that education alone guarantees success, pointing out that the American Dream has become increasingly inaccessible for those without financial resources or institutional support.

She calls for systemic changes to restore access to education, including increased public funding for universities and significant reforms to student debt.

Westover points out that the promise of the American Dream—success through education—has been undermined by growing inequality and the rising cost of education. This has made social mobility increasingly difficult for students from poorer backgrounds.

The author believes that success is not just a result of individual effort but also of institutional support. She calls for institutions to play a larger role in enabling upward mobility, rather than placing the burden solely on individuals.

Westover concludes by arguing that the current state of the American Dream reflects a failure of institutions to support those in need. The American Dream, once a symbol of possibility, has become a distant, unrealistic goal for many, particularly those from low-income families.

Close Reading and Discussion Questions:

1. The rhetorical questions Westover poses in paragraph 6, “But am I? Is that what the story means?," challenge the simplistic view of her success as a straightforward example of the American Dream. In paragraphs 7 and 8, she expands on this doubt by describing the financial hardships and trade-offs she faced during university. She had to work multiple jobs, often sacrificing health and sleep to afford tuition, and her decisions were driven by the urgent need for money. These details reveal that her success was not solely due to hard work but was also shaped by economic survival, suggesting that the American Dream, as a tale of meritocratic success, oversimplifies the reality of her experience.

2. In paragraphs 13 to 16, Westover uses data to underscore how the American Dream has become less attainable for low-income students. She contrasts her own affordable college experience with the rising costs of education today. In paragraph 15, she cites data showing that tuition at four-year colleges has more than doubled in the past three decades, even after adjusting for inflation, and highlights a report revealing that low-income students at state universities now face an additional $80,000 in costs beyond their means. She also notes that even a full Pell Grant now covers only 29% of a public college’s costs, compared to 79% when it was first established. This data strengthens her argument that rising tuition and reduced financial aid are making education increasingly inaccessible, challenging the idea of upward mobility through education and the American Dream.

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Brief Article Notes:

Origins of "American Born Chinese": Initially a mini comic series, it evolved into a full graphic novel. Yang aimed to highlight cultural identity and stereotypes through visual storytelling.

Character Development: Yang created Cousin Chin-Kee to connect historical and contemporary stereotypes, aiming to challenge readers’ perceptions.

Personal Connection: Yang relates to his protagonist Jin Wang's struggles with identity, as he shares similar experiences of cultural disconnection.

Reflections on Stereotypes: Yang acknowledges the painful reactions to Chin-Kee from older Asian-Americans, while younger audiences sometimes find humour in the character.

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'The American Dream'- Notes:

The American Dream is a complex concept with varied interpretations, often associated with meritocracy and success.

Originally, the American Dream represented an ethos of equality, justice, and democracy, particularly before World War II.

It attracted immigrants during the Industrial Revolution, symbolising a moral obligation to uphold social equality.

Between 1943 and 1949, the introduction of consumer credit shifted the Dream from political ideals to a capitalist framework.

Global events, including the rise of fascism and the Ku Klux Klan, prompted an evolution of the Dream as a pro-democratic ideal.

Post-World War II, the American economy boomed, leading to a sense of national pride and a burgeoning middle class.

The Dream became tied to homeownership, with suburban life epitomising success and an emphasis on antifascism and anticommunism.

The 1960s saw a cultural awakening, with civil rights movements highlighting the inequities in the American Dream.

Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. reshaped the narrative, exposing the disparity in access to success based on race.

The 1990s marked a shift toward recognising the contributions of women and minorities.

The Dream became increasingly materialistic, with technological advancements influencing consumer behaviour and aspirations.

Today, the American Dream is a blend of material aspirations and vague notions of freedom, influenced by race, class, and economic challenges like the Global Financial Crisis.

The American Dream remains a multilayered concept, constantly evolving with societal changes and challenges, encouraging ongoing dialogue about the meaning of success in American life.

Close Reading Answers:

1. According to Bod, the relationship between the American Dream and immigration is deeply intertwined. The American Dream historically served as a beacon for immigrants, representing hope and the promise of a better life in a land of opportunities. This ideal attracted many during periods of significant migration, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, when immigrants sought social and economic equality, so decided to immigrate to America. As immigrants arrived in the U.S., they were motivated by the belief that hard work could lead to prosperity, thus reinforcing the concept of meritocracy inherent in the American Dream.

2. Bod’s use of the metaphor “poked a hole in the fabric of the American Dream” strengthens the claim by illustrating the fragility of the Dream's idealised vision of equality and opportunity. The metaphor suggests that while the American Dream is often perceived as a unified and solid concept, it is actually vulnerable to disruption by social injustices, particularly those related to race. By describing the Dream as a “fabric,” Bod conveys the idea that it is woven together with various threads, such as meritocracy and equal opportunity. When the struggle for equality highlights the disparities in access to success, it creates visible damage—“a hole”—that reveals the inconsistencies in this narrative. This imagery emphasises that the Dream is not universally accessible and that it can take on different forms for different groups, thereby acknowledging the complexities of American identity.

Discussion Notes:

When Bod refers to the American Dream as "multilayered," she indicates that it encompasses various interpretations and meanings that have evolved over time. This complexity reflects the diverse experiences and aspirations of different groups within American society.

The multilayered nature of the American Dream suggests that it is not a singular, static concept; rather, it is shaped by factors such as race, class, gender, and immigration status. Each group may experience the Dream differently, with unique challenges and opportunities.

This term also highlights the ongoing dialogue about success and fulfilment in America. As societal values and conditions change, the American Dream continues to adapt, prompting individuals to redefine what it means for them in contemporary contexts.

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American Born Chinese - Chapter 1 The Monkey King --> 11.10.24

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American Born Chinese - Chapter 1 The Monkey King --> 11.10.24

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In the first part of American Born Chinese, Gene Luen Yang adapts the myth of the Monkey King from Journey to the West to explore themes of pride, identity, and self-acceptance. In the original myth, the Monkey King is a powerful, rebellious character who refuses to accept his true form as a monkey, desiring instead to be seen as a god. This arrogance leads to his punishment by the gods and sets him on a path of self-discovery, where he ultimately learns that embracing his true nature is essential for growth. Yang appropriates this myth by focusing on the Monkey King's struggle with his identity, using it as a metaphor for the broader human experience of rejecting aspects of oneself in the pursuit of greater acceptance. This also makes sense when I looked at the article about his context in class, as Yang said that growing up, he wanted to reject the part of him that was Chinese, because he thought his parents were extremely "boring." Through this adaptation, Yang critiques the destructive effects of pride and the importance of self-acceptance, suggesting that, like the Monkey King, individuals must reconcile with who they truly are in order to achieve peace and understanding.

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Compare: Gwendolyn Brooks and Maya Angelou       --> 27.09.24

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Compare: Gwendolyn Brooks and Maya Angelou       --> 27.09.24

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Task 1:

Above

Task 2:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EjcQay3wX2bChW6mlqRMjZVcr7bdJQy4m4W_-qh8vaI/edit?usp=sharing

Comparison on the document above

Thesis:

Gwendolyn Brooks and Maya Angelou both utilise vivid imagery and symbolism in their respective poems, 'Boy Breaking Glass' and 'Caged Bird,' to portray the struggle for freedom, with Brooks reflecting the complexities of urban life and Angelou emphasising resilience through personal narratives, thereby illustrating the multifaceted nature of the quest for racial equality.

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Title: Metamorphosis

The words are:

Soaring,  flying

Breathing hope and truth into the darkest, most forgotten

corners of the world

No matter how

f a r.

Or isolated.

But then, suddenly seized and

To rn.

Rip    ped.

S    h    r    e    d    d    e    d.

Beaten and bruised.

Flayed

Flogged

B r o k e n.

Locked

deep

deep

deep

down.

S e e m i n g l y    b e y o n d    r  e p a i r

As they   s t r u g g l e   to

Find a way

O u t.

How do you fly…

When you’ve lost your wings?

The words crawl, and slither,

And they find a   c h i n k

In their  prison

They have no wings, not anymore

So, they adapt

and morph

into something

New.

The words still

Breathe hope and truth into the darkest, most forgotten

corners of the world

No matter how

f a r.

Or isolated.

They still mourn the wings that were  r i p p e d  from them,

They still go on.

They still endure

They still

Fly

Task 2:

In this poem, I want to convey how although journalists are oppressed and silenced for their pieces, they still adapt, and find ways to put the truth, or their views out there. The “words” in this poem, that lose their wings, are metaphors for the journalists themselves, because the struggle of the words is supposed to emulate the struggle of the journalists, who try to put out the truth or their views despite harsh laws. The words adapting (morphing) into something else in order to still breathe “hope” into the world represents how although those oppressed writers may not be able to go back to the way they used to write, they’ll still persevere and do it in a different way. I chose this global issue of oppression and free speech because a big part of why we know what is going on in places like North Korea or Venezuela is because journalists are putting themselves on the line to tell the rest of the world. As well as this, so many get unjustly and unfairly imprisoned because they write controversial articles for newspapers and I believe that these injustices, and the sheer determination and bravery of these people ought to be shared with the rest of the world, who may know them as nothing but the name in the small print at the top of their newspaper article.

Reflection Task:

Her purpose relates to my global issue as it really captures the essence of my poem. It is most certainly important to tell people what is happening in the world, and unfortunately many journalists, like Marie Colvin, are unfairly prosecuted for only trying to tell the truth. My poem tries to explore how journalists adapt and change their styles, and often their entire outlook in order to keep doing the things they love and getting the truth to people in their writing, despite the extremely real and dire threats that seem to constantly hang over them.

Colvin’s fearless reporting in conflict zones highlights the vital role of journalism in exposing human rights violations and holding power to account. Her dedication, even in the face of censorship and personal danger, serves as a testament to the enduring importance of free speech.

This relates not only to my global issue, but also my poem, which emphasises that the struggle for truth is not just a professional challenge that many journalists face, but it is also moral imperative, and obligation.

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Protest Poetry - First Draft   --> 06.04.24

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Protest Poetry - First Draft   --> 06.04.24

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Poem with typography linked above

Title: Fly

The words are:

Soaring,  flying

Breathing hope and truth into the darkest, most forgotten

corners of the world

No matter how

f a r.

Or isolated.

But then, suddenly seized and

To rn.

Rip    ped.

S   h   r   e   d   d   e   d.

Beaten and bruised.

Flayed

Flogged

B r o k e n.

Locked

deep

deep

deep

down.

S e e m i n g l y    b e y o n d    r e p a i r

As they struggle to

Find a way

O u t.

How do you fly…

When you’ve lost your wings?

The words crawl, and slither,

And they find a   c h i n k

In their prison

And because they have no wings, they adapt

Change.

The words still

Breathe hope and truth into the darkest, most forgotten

corners of the world

No matter how

f a r.

Or isolated.

And although they mourn the wings that were  r i p p e d  from them,

They still go on.

They still endure

They still

Fly

Reflection Task:

See Final Draft post (Date: 13.09.24) for improvements and edits. All connectives are removed in the final draft in order to better convey the meaning without using prose-like vocabulary or structures

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Research- Poetry as Protest:  --> 30.08.24

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Research- Poetry as Protest:  --> 30.08.24

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Issue:

Suppression of Free Speech and Censorship

Notes:

Censorship: "The suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security."

Suppression: "The action of suppressing something such as an activity or publication."

Free Speech: "A principle that supports the freedom of an individual or a community to articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction."

A key journalist right is that they are allowed free access to all information sources and the freedom to look into anything that is in the public interest without restriction. Only in extreme cases and with particular reasons may a journalist be accused of violating public or private confidentiality.

The top 10 countries that censor the media according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) are, North Korea, Burma, Turkmenistan, Equatorial Guinea, and Libya, Eritrea, Cuba, Uzbekistan, Syria, and Belarus.

“People in these countries are virtually isolated from the rest of the world by authoritarian rulers who muzzle the media and keep a chokehold on information through restrictive laws, fear, and intimidation,” said CPJ Executive Director Ann Cooper.

“By any international standard, the practices of these governments are unacceptable, we call on the leaders of these most censored countries to join the free world by abandoning these restrictive actions and allowing journalists to independently report the news and inform their citizens.” Said a CPJ spokesman

Some common characteristics of these countries that suppress Free Speech and heavily censor all press include:

Total Control: In all ten of the countries, there is significant state influence or control over print and electronic media. A few privately owned outlets are permitted to operate in certain countries, but the majority of them are controlled by supporters of the regime. Libya has no independent print or broadcast media, which is harsh even in the Middle East. In Equitorial Guinea, the president's son is the only private broadcaster.  Moreover, people in Burma who listen to the BBC in public face the danger of being arrested.

Dictatorship: One individual has is the sole ruler the majority of the nations on CPJ's list, and they have done so by manipulating the media and rigging any elections. The media fosters a personality cult, to create a specific idea of the ruler among the poeple. Saparmurat Atayevich Niyazov, the "President for Life," is always shown in profile at the bottom of the screen on Turkmenistani state television. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea has been referred to as "the country's God" on state-run radio.

The use of the "Big Lie": There is only ever positive "news" in North Korea. The tightly controlled media in the nation claims that there has never been starvation or poverty and that its people would gladly give their lives in order to support their leader. According to the official Korean Central News Agency, people rushed into buildings to preserve ever-present images of the "Dear Leader" before they saved their own family members following a deadly munitions train explosion in a populous location, demonstrating how well-liked leader Kim Jong Il is.

Zero Tolerance for Negative Coverage: Following their coverage of the May 2005 massacre of antigovernment protestors in Andijan, nearly a dozen international correspondents were forced to leave Uzbekistan due to a government crackdown. As well as this,  Reporters who covered the opposition to the recent reelection of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko were imprisoned and accused of crimes like "hooliganism." For uncooperative journalists, the Cuban government arranges "repudiation acts," in which protesters around the journalist's residence and bar entry and exit.

Fictional Texts:

1984: "The Party controls everything in Oceania, even the people's history and language. Currently, the Party is forcing the implementation of an invented language called Newspeak, which attempts to prevent political rebellion by eliminating all words related to it. Even thinking rebellious thoughts is illegal."

"As the novel opens, Winston feels frustrated by the oppression and rigid control of the Party, which prohibits free thought, sex, and any expression of individuality. Winston dislikes the party and has illegally purchased a diary in which to write his criminal thoughts. He has also become fixated on a powerful Party member named O’Brien, whom Winston believes is a secret member of the Brotherhood the mysterious, legendary group that works to overthrow the Party."

SparkNotes: 1984 Summary

Bibliography:

https://research.tuni.fi/ethicnet/country/switzerland/declaration-of-the-duties-and-rights-of-a-journalist/

https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/amendments/amendment-i/interpretations/266#:~:text=%E2%80%9CCongress%20shall%20make%20no%20law,write%2C%20except%20in%20exceptional%20circumstances.

https://cpj.org/reports/2006/05/10-most-censored-countries/

Reflection Task:

Fictional texts are also important to use when researching a global issue because frequently, these issues are explored in a fictional text, in a new and innovative way. Therefore, I plan to conduct some research into the following texts: Fahrenheit 451, The Wave, and 1984

Some brief research:

Consequences of Censorship: Censorship leads to intellectual stagnation and conformity, stifling critical thinking and individual expression.

Role of Technology: Technology can distract and control, highlighting the need to balance innovation with the preservation of intellectual freedom.

Resistance and Rebellion: Characters like Montag symbolise the struggle against censorship, emphasising the importance of dissent in the fight for free expression.

Societal Responsibility: A complacent society prioritiesd comfort over engagement, making it complicit in its own oppression; vigilance is essential.

of Diverse Perspectives: Eradicating diverse voices diminishes societal richness, underscoring the need for varied ideas in fostering democracy and progress.

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TASK 2:

What, How, Why:

Martin Luther King Jr's quotes relate to the purpose of protest poetry as this type of poetry is an outlet to express "dissatisfaction, pain, anger, and injustice." In these quotes, King's quotes are expressing the danger of indifference, portrayed in one of the quotes when it is stated that "the ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people, but the silence over that by the good people." This message is very similar to that of Elie Wiesel's, in the sense that the people who stand by and do nothing, are worse than the tormentors. Because protest poetry is supposed to speak out against injustices, the worst scenario in this case would be not speaking out at all, when staying silent becomes a "betrayal." In addition to this, this particular branch of poetry is what draws people to city squares, in order to protest. The language used is "compact" and concise enough to create a social media presence and recruit even more people to the cause. Through refusing to take a side, by staying quiet, people continue to become oppressed and unjustly treated. King's first quote "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter," has a strong link with protest poetry because it indicates the necessity of speaking against injustice. Protest poetry is a call to action. It wants the reader to stand up and do something about what's happening.  Writing protest poetry is a direct stand against oppression and indifference as it demonstrates taking a stand. WMoreover, King clearly demonstrates that remaining silent isn't enough, which is the very thing protest poetry stands against, as it speaks out for those who are marginalised or oppressed. Finally, in the same way that King's quote insinuates change as silence is not an option, protest poetry prompts action against unjust rules, laws, etc.

TASK 3:

Issue:

The issue I would like to focus on would be Censorship and Suppression of Free Speech. For example, government and institutional restrictions on media, internet content, and public discourse, impacting freedom of expression. As well as threats to the ability to freely express opinions and ideas, and the persecution of journalists, writers and activists.

Notes: Amnesty International

Exercising rights without fear or unlawful interference is critical for living in an open and fair society.

An open society allows individuals to access justice and enjoy their human rights.

Governments worldwide frequently imprison individuals for expressing their opinions or speaking out.

Many national constitutions recognise the importance of 'free speech'.

Governments have a responsibility to prohibit hateful and insightful speech.

Some governments misuse their authority to silence peaceful dissent by enacting restrictive laws.

In some countries, it is extremely dangerous to criticise the government. For example, in Egypt during 2018, the authorities arrested at least "113 individuals citing a host of absurd reasons including satire, tweeting, supporting football clubs, denouncing sexual harassment, editing movies and giving interviews."

The above were accused of “membership of terrorist groups” and “disseminating false news." They were detained for months without trial, and then sentenced by military courts, even though they are in Egypt as elsewhere, inherently unfair.

A press to freely report on any issues that interest us is a right, and is part of the building blocks of society, yet in Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Venezuela to name just a few countries, journalists face repression and attacks.

"During conflict, repression can get worse, such as in Myanmar where journalists investigating the killing of Rohingya men and boys by security forces in Rakhine State were arrested and jailed, before being freed under international pressure."

Philippines- July 2019, trial began against Maria Ressa, executive editor of online news outlet Rappler. She was a prominent critic of President Rodrigo Duterte, and was arrested in February 2019, after Rappler published detailed investigations into illegal (extrajudicial) executions committed by police and unknown armed persons with Duterte’s explicit encouragement.

Free Speech: international law protects this, but there are instances where speech can legitimately restricted under the same law – such as when it violates the rights of others, or, advocates hatred and incites discrimination or violence. However, any restrictions on freedom of expression must be provided by law, protect certain public interests or the rights of others and, be clearly necessary for that purpose.

Original Source here