Are You About To Get Fired, Or Are You Just Paranoid 8 Ways to Tell

Are You About To Get Fired, Or Are You Just Paranoid 8 Ways to Tell It’s easy to think you might be on the chopping block, but sometimes you’re just jumping at shadows. How can you tell if you’re just being paranoid or if you really should be worried? Here are a few signs that your worry is justified. 1. You recently screwed up.A screw-up isn’t necessarily the harbinger of doom. But if you did have a big mistake in your recent past, that’s probably one thing to consider.2. You’ve been iced out.You suddenly find yourself no longer in the loop. You’re hearing about company news from people well below your pay grade. Not a great sign. And if your supervisor or mentor recently left the department? Even worse.3. No one will look at you.None of your colleagues are making eye contact. You’re being ignored. People go out of their way not to cross you in the halls or meet you in the break room. And you find people seem to be whispering when they’re in your ear shot. You could just be a pariah, but it’s more likely that they know something you don’t know.4. There have been mergers and acquisitions.Your company just merged or got bought out. Layoffs are probably to be on the table at some point in the future. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to be fired, but if it’s one of many of these symptoms, then you should probably start looking for another job.5. You’re being set up to fail.The last task you got assigned was actually impossible. Or maybe your responsibility has been completely curtailed. Either way, you can perceive that you’ve been fully written off.6. You’ve been downsized.Has your office just been moved somewhere pretty subpar? Or your cubicle split in half to accommodate another employee? They don’t value your space, they probably don’t value you all that much either. Or maybe your pay has just taken a cut- or been frozen.7. They’re hiring your replacement.You found a posting that matches your job description on a job search site or the company boards. That is†¦ well†¦ not a good sign.8. There’s a clear paper trail.Your boss doesn’t have any conversations with you now in either passing or about work. There’s always an email chain. As if they’re trying to cover their bases. Or perhaps your relationship is just getting weird. Either way, weird boss behavior is never a good sign.

Famous Inventors from New Mexico

Famous Inventors from New Mexico A few famous inventors have hailed from New Mexico. William Hanna William Hanna (1910 - 2001) was one-half of Hanna-Barbara, the animation studio behind such famous cartoons as Scooby-Doo, Super Friends, Yogi Bear and The Flintstones. In addition to co-founding the studio and being the creative force behind many of its most famous cartoons, Hanna and Barbara were also responsible for creating Tom and Jerry early in their careers. Hanna was born in Melrose, New Mexico, though his family moved several times throughout his childhood. Edward Uhler Condon Edward Uhler Condon (1902 – 1974) was a nuclear physicist and a pioneer in quantum mechanics. He was born in Alamogordo, New Mexico, and while he attended high school and college in California, he returned to the state for a brief tenure with the Manhattan Project during World War II. As research director for Westinghouse Electric, he oversaw and conducted research that was instrumental to the development of both radar and nuclear weapons. He later became National Bureau of Standards, where he became a target for the House Un-American Activities Committee; however, he was famously defended against these allegations by such figures as Harry Truman and Albert Einstein. Jeff Bezos Jeff Bezos was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico on January 12, 1964. Hes best known as the founder, chairman and CEO of Amazon.com, making him one of the pioneers of e-commerce. He also founded Blue Origin, a private spaceflight company. Smokey Bear While not an inventor in the traditional sense, the living symbol of Smokey Bear was a native of New Mexico. The bear cub was rescued from a 1950 wildfire in the Capitan Mountains of New Mexico and nicknamed Hotfoot Teddy due to the injuries he sustained during the fire, but renamed Smokey, after the fire prevention mascot mascot who had been created a few years prior.

The High Cost of Discount Culture Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The High Cost of Discount Culture - Assignment Example Since buying it was the only expense incurred, watching television became the preferred leisure activity for almost half of the population. Executives at the television broadcasters were more concerned with advertisers than the viewers because advertisers brought in revenue. The biggest revenue generator was the cigarette industry (Thompson & Joseph 19). The advertisers influenced entertainment with the potential to attract most viewers. With free home entertainment, the movie industry saw a diminishing number of audiences. With endless soap operas, comedies and advertisements, television discouraged the reading culture and shortened attention spans while promoting violence (Thompson & Joseph 19). People all over the country shared a common thing because of the television.  In conclusion, television became the monarchy of entertainment. It bore an appeal to the majority middle class who had conventional tastes. Television offered entertainment they could identify with, thus influen cing a cultural bond among them (Shell 9). Those who watched common television programmes adopted a lifestyle from them.         

Case Study - Mountain Bank Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case Study - Mountain Bank - Essay Example Universalistic approach Universalistic approach focuses on identifying a set of practices that are beneficial to all organizations. It has a number of practices known as the commitment strategy that are beneficial to organizations. Practices in the commitment strategy give an impression that management cares about its employees. The strategy also ensures that employees have the training and freedom to pursue important job tasks. Mountain Bank should ensure that the tellers are treated well and know that they are valued as they are the main contact persons with the customers. A good and committed work force has been proved to increase efficiency in an organization and therefore increasing the overall productivity of the organization. Employees should be well trained on their tasks as they are the main drivers of customer satisfaction in the organization. Long term commitment will also assist in facilitating the strategy of leveraging the strong retailing clientele to taking up their s ervices in the real estate and corporate areas. Human Resource Strategies There are four human resource strategies that an organization can take up and these include the internal/cost approach, external/cost approach, internal/differentiation approach and external/differentiation approach. ... This strategy emphasizes hiring and retaining loyal employees who do task as per instructions given. Organizations with this strategy design work so that employees have broad roles and perform a variety of different tasks. Persons recruited and hired fit the organization culture and have a potential to become loyal employees. Efforts are made to satisfy the needs of employees and build a strong bond that reduces the likelihood of employee turnover. Organizations with this human resource strategy hire people early in their careers and provide them with extensive training in a number of different skills. Careers include different positions and promotions are made into positions that are not closely related to previous experiences. Performance appraisals are designed to facilitate cooperation rather than competition, thus encouraging team work. Compensation includes long-term incentives and benefits. Unions which help build feelings of unity are common in organizations with this kind of strategy. The external orientation combined with a cost leadership strategy results in a Bargain Laborer HR strategy. The emphasis of this strategy is on obtaining employees who do not demand high wages. Organizations with this strategy design work so that managers can tightly control employee efforts. Each employee is given clearly defined tasks that can be learned easily. People are recruited and hired to perform simple tasks that do not require clearly developed skills. Minimal attention is given in meeting the long-term needs of employees. Organizations with this human resource strategy don’t provide careers with clear paths for promotion and advancement. Performance appraisal focuses on a day-to-day feedback and rarely incorporates formal measures. Training is

Weigh on Societal Realities Essay Example for Free

Weigh on Societal Realities Essay The movie V for Vendetta gives its viewers an intimate look into the mind of a very creative and ultimately very patient political â€Å"terrorist. † But the question remains, how far-fetched is an idea like this? Could the United States be on its way to such a revolution and if so, is such a revolution really necessary? After having seen this movie a number of times and taking into consideration the current state of our country, I would have to say the answer is yes on both counts. With the recent rash of corporate bailouts and evidence of our government’s involvement in wire tapping, I feel it would be naive and even a bit irresponsible to think our government incapable of causing such an emotional response to take place. While our own media may not completely be controlled by our government, as seemed so obvious in V for Vendetta, a person cannot tune to a news program these days without knowing almost instantly which political party that station sides with. Our foreign enemies have already done a good job of forcing Americans to question their own loyalties, how long before an individual or group takes a broad step to alter our governmental policy? V realized then what so few of us seem to accept now, that a constitution does not necessarily protect us from a government gone awry. Our own history, especially that most recent, has taught us that with enough money and power you can practically get away with murder. Not only can you hold political office, but apparently your means give you the authority to do with it what you will. Of course while vying for this office you’ll stoop to almost any level, tell the most outrageous lies. For example in V for Vendetta, wasn’t it convenient how a cure for this uncontrollable â€Å"plague† was suddenly discovered soon after Sutler took office? And isn’t convenient how all wars will end and all taxes will be eliminated when said favored politician takes control? But nothing really ever seems to work out for the common man; they only seem to work out for those who have the control and the power. Minimum wage may increase, but so does the price of everything else. Those with means, motive and opportunity need only wave their hand or put their signature to paper and their will be done. The average citizen does not have that luxury. The average citizen has but two things to be concerned with, death and taxes, when isn’t their concern supposed to lie with Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness? While it may be true that not everyone has sacrificed freedom and liberty for sanctity of life, there are many that have and this is just the beginning. Everyday people have to give up on their once noble hopes and dreams merely to make ends meet and give Uncle Sam his fair share. While Congress helps itself to more money and the oil companies are reaping record profits, average hard-working Americans are forced to sell their homes and work two jobs. And it is true that America is the land of dreams, but at what price? The so-called dreams that America stands for are now all but unreachable to the large majority. But the hardship for many Americans does not end with the job or housing market, our own ability to choose and decide for ourselves is also in question. Gay marriage, for example is not recognized in most states, and if politicians had their way the concept would be outlawed altogether. This idea is reflected on a larger scale in V for Vendetta when Valerie recounts the hardships of homosexuals in the intolerant society in which she lived. Gay relationships are not only frowned upon in this society, but having been found to be involved in such a relationship is punishable by death. The United States government may not be acting so rashly now, but who’s to say what the reaction will be when a decision about gay marriage is reached on a national level. Part 2: After seeing V for Vendetta, some may view the character V as nothing more than a terrorist out for blood; a criminal no better than the men who crashed airplanes into our beloved landmarks. However, V represented so much more to so many people; he represented change for the better and a fresh start. What V does in this movie is more than justified, it is necessary. Although he may have been forced to murder some seemingly innocent people, his purpose was always clear; he never faltered. V’s life, his entire existence was a product of a corrupt government, and everyone he crossed paths with was directly involved. He had no name, no history and no identity other than â€Å"patient number five. † It is not until he meets Evey that his life becomes about something more. Evey is connected to V in more ways than he could have at first imagined. Her own parents were â€Å"black-bagged† for being political activists and her brother was a patient at the notorious St. Mary’s. V gains respect for Evey almost instantly and begins to fall in love with her within days of keeping her with him. But even his love for Evey does not transform his ultimate desire to transform a corrupt world. He realizes that it is for people like Evey and he that he put these plans into motion to begin with. By the end of the film V has made an impact on everyone, from average citizen to Sutler himself. He convinces people, as he convinced Evey that a change is inevitable but it could not wait any longer. He called upon people to stand with him and recognize the need for change and bear witness to his revolution. V is not a terrorist because his goal was not to harm innocents and bring about hardship, it is quite the opposite. He is indeed a freedom fighter because freedom is precisely what he was fighting for. He wanted to bring about a better life for his nation’s citizens, much like Robin Hood in a way. He was merely putting the power in the hands of those who should’ve had it all along, hoping in the end they’d know how to use it. I suppose V could be viewed as a martyr because he sacrificed himself for a chance at a new and better age, but I don’t believe martyrdom was his intent at all. Nobody knew his name, where he was from or had ever even seen his face. His actions were for the greater good, not for the purpose of having a monument erected in his visage. While violence may not be the answer, an attitude and a desire like that of V’s is exactly what this country needs. And who knows, it very well may be happening now. V had the wherewithal to wait years for his plans to come to fruition, with only the hope in his heart that they would be fulfilled. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to think that such a soul could be living among us, with such courage of conviction and a will to see change? It is just as V declares to Evey, â€Å"there is no certainty, only the opportunity. † References Wachowski, Andy Larry. (Producers). (2006). V for Vendetta[Motion Picture].

The Most Significant Aspect of Roosevelt’s Presidency and New Deal up t

The Most Significant Aspect of Roosevelt’s Presidency and New Deal up to 1941 In this essay I am going to be assessing which was the most significant aspect of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Presidency, by looking at four different aspects of it, and then applying tests to each aspect. I will be looking into Roosevelt’s Economic Policies, Economic Ideas, Role of the Presidency and the Electoral performance of the Democratic party – and then, applying the following tests to them: Firstly, the ‘Amount of change,’ then the ‘Immediate effects,’ then the ‘Long term effects,’ and finally the ‘Effect of one aspect on another.’ Roosevelt’s economic ideas were clearly different to those of the Republicans and also the Electoral Position of the Democratic Party also changed a lot from the 1920’s. However it was the modifications to the role of the President and Roosevelt’s new economic policies that produced the biggest changes from the Republicans presidency in the 20s. Before Roosevelt became President, the rules of the constitution were followed very strictly: The Legislature role (congress) was to make the laws, the Executive’s (the president) was to carry those laws out and the Judiciary (Supreme Court Judges) to judge the laws. Each having their own authority and weaknesses to form a ‘balance’, ensuring that power and control was split equally between the three branches. When Roosevelt became President in 1933, he made three major changes to the role of the Presidency. Firstly, he changed the relationship between the Presidency and congress. While it was still the responsibility of the Congress to make laws, Roosevel... ... I found that only really the Role of the Presidency had a major long term effect after Roosevelt, there are aspects of Roosevelt’s presidency that are still largely apparent in the United States of America today – because the USA has such a polar economy, there is a big divide between the rich and poor, and although there are still a lot of poor people in America, who receive limited aid, there is a larger majority that are extremely wealthy and the USA is the richest country in the world today. And Roosevelt does have some part to play in this; because of everything he did (long and short term) he managed to succeed in largely curing the depression and getting America back on its feet. Without this, we don’t know where America would be today and so this is what I believe to be the best way of measuring significance. The Most Significant Aspect of Roosevelt’s Presidency and New Deal up t The Most Significant Aspect of Roosevelt’s Presidency and New Deal up to 1941 In this essay I am going to be assessing which was the most significant aspect of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Presidency, by looking at four different aspects of it, and then applying tests to each aspect. I will be looking into Roosevelt’s Economic Policies, Economic Ideas, Role of the Presidency and the Electoral performance of the Democratic party – and then, applying the following tests to them: Firstly, the ‘Amount of change,’ then the ‘Immediate effects,’ then the ‘Long term effects,’ and finally the ‘Effect of one aspect on another.’ Roosevelt’s economic ideas were clearly different to those of the Republicans and also the Electoral Position of the Democratic Party also changed a lot from the 1920’s. However it was the modifications to the role of the President and Roosevelt’s new economic policies that produced the biggest changes from the Republicans presidency in the 20s. Before Roosevelt became President, the rules of the constitution were followed very strictly: The Legislature role (congress) was to make the laws, the Executive’s (the president) was to carry those laws out and the Judiciary (Supreme Court Judges) to judge the laws. Each having their own authority and weaknesses to form a ‘balance’, ensuring that power and control was split equally between the three branches. When Roosevelt became President in 1933, he made three major changes to the role of the Presidency. Firstly, he changed the relationship between the Presidency and congress. While it was still the responsibility of the Congress to make laws, Roosevel... ... I found that only really the Role of the Presidency had a major long term effect after Roosevelt, there are aspects of Roosevelt’s presidency that are still largely apparent in the United States of America today – because the USA has such a polar economy, there is a big divide between the rich and poor, and although there are still a lot of poor people in America, who receive limited aid, there is a larger majority that are extremely wealthy and the USA is the richest country in the world today. And Roosevelt does have some part to play in this; because of everything he did (long and short term) he managed to succeed in largely curing the depression and getting America back on its feet. Without this, we don’t know where America would be today and so this is what I believe to be the best way of measuring significance.

Supply Issues Affectng the Copper Industry

Supply Issues Affecting the Copper Mining Industry As is demonstrated by the chart below, the demand for copper has exceeded the supply brought to market since 2009. In 2011, 16. 5 million tonnes of copper were produced worldwide and this amount is expected to grow by approximately 3% annually. Data from the International Copper Study Group (ICSG) for 2012 suggests that international demand for refined copper is expected to exceed production by about 240,000 metric tons.The slow growth forecasted in copper supply is speculated to continue to increase the production deficit into 2013 because of both long and short term issues that affect the copper production industry. (http://www. econmatters. com/2011/12/copper-2012-supply-struggling-to-meet. html) Declining Ore Grades Man has been mining copper for centuries. As is characteristic of many other heavily-mined minerals, high-grade copper areas are becoming increasingly rare as many of the largest and highest grade areas have been disc overed and depleted by mining companies.It was common in the early 1900`s to find sites that had up to 30% copper; however, the average percentage of copper in new sites found is 1% or less and deemed low grade. Because the copper production process is energy intensive, and therefore expensive, it becomes less feasible to develop the majority of new sites that are prospected. (http://www. mining-technology. com/features/featuremineral-munching-microbes-future-metal-mining) Falling Chilean Copper Output It is estimated that Chile produces about 35% of the world`s copper supply.However, Chilean copper production has fallen by 730 000 tonnes over the last decade. Although declining ore grades are part of the problem, as more iron ore must be processed to produce the same amount of copper creating cost overruns, supply disruptions at some of Chile`s largest mines continue to occur due to labour strikes. Labour striking tends to correlate with rises in the price of refined coppers as wel l as with large GDP increases, both of which have been seen over the last five years in Chile. (http://seekingalpha. om/instablog/389729-frank-holmes/247300-chart-of-the-week-struggling-copper-supply) Decreases in demand are not being met with needed foreign investment projects to develop new mines because of social factors. Since the beginning of copper exploration, the Chilean government has done little to regulate mining development. Many activists are beginning to file lawsuits and successfully halt new projects proposed by large mining companies because of the adverse effects of large scale mining on surrounding crops and water sources.In April 2012, GoldCorp Inc annulled a 3. 9 billion dollar copper project, known as El Morro, because courts deemed that the company had not engaged in proper due diligence procedures with the local indigenous community. (http://www. mining. com/popular-unrest-casts-doubt-over-billions-in-chilean-mining-projects-10820/) Geopolitical Instability i n High Grade Copper Regions Southern Africa has sparked the interest of many large copper production companies due to large, high-grade areas in South Africa, Zambia and the Congo.However, political instability and lack of infrastructure in these areas have severely affected the exploration and development of mines as they are seen as unstable and risky to foreign investors. Also, announcements of pending government policies in favour of copper resource nationalization have caused many existing projects to be halted until firmer decisions reached by ruling political parties. (http://copperinvestingnews. om/10134/copper-mining-africa-south-africa-zambia-congo-rio-tinto-anglo-american/) The above constraints are not easily rectified and suggest that the slow growth trends associated with copper supply will continue into the short-term future. For the purpose of this commodity investment decision, it is reasonable to assume that copper prices will continue to rise as the production def icit increases.

European Settlement in Latin America Essay

Between 1450 and 1750 C. E. , Europeans entered Latin America and created new political structures, increased trade, and brought their religion. This happened because the Spanish conquered the Aztecs and Incas, while Portugal took over what is now Brazil. Hernando Cortes conquered the Aztecs while Francisco Pizzarro conquered the Incas. The Aztecs and Incas were two great Native American civilizations. In Latin America, slavery remained unchanged. These areas that the Spanish and Portuguese conquered later developed into their own self-governing states. In 1494, the Treaty of Todesillas split the New World in two when Pope Alexander VI drew the Line of Demarcation. Spain received the majority of the land while Portugal received modern day Brazil. While Spain constructed a massive military, Portugal established many settlements on the east coast. In 1519, Hernan Cortes conquered the Aztecs by killing Montezuma, the Aztec emperor. In 1532, Francisco Pizzaro conquered the Incas by killing Atahualpa, the Inca emperor. The Incas had such highly centralized government that they could not run without an empire. Because of guns, germs, and steel, Spanish conquistadors were able to conquer the Aztec and Inca empires. The Spanish also had an advantage in military technology, having steel swords, iron mail, and horses. Without domesticated animals, such as pigs and cows, the Aztecs and Incas had now immunity to European diseases such as smallpox, typhus, and influenza, which killed almost 95% of the indigenous population of Latin America. In 1549, the first Jesuit missionaries arrived in Brazil to spread Catholicism. In the late 1500’s, there were no longer Native American slaves because of the large decrease in their population due to European diseases. Some Native American tribes forced there slaves to undergo human sacrifice, such as the Aztecs. There were now Black African slaves. While this was happening, the Portuguese switched from establishing trading posts to building an extensive colonization. 240,000 Europeans entered Latin America in the 16th century. They imported millions of slaves to run their plantations. The Portuguese and Spanish royal governments expected to rule these settlements; collect 20% of all the treasure found, and tax as much as they could get away with. Silver soon became 20% of Spain’s total budget. During the end of the colonial period, it was very common for the Native Americans to intermix with the Europeans. The offspring were called â€Å"Mestizos†, which are people of mixed ancestry. They formed majorities in many colonies. In the late 16th century, Peru participated in the Manila Galleon Trade. This was a trade where China gave Mexico porcelain, silk, ivory, spices and myriad other exotic goods in exchange for New World silver. Potosi, Peru became the fifth most populated city in the world by 1620 because of silver production. However, in the mid-17th century, silver production declined, but the decimated indigenous population in the central Andean region progressively begins to stabilize and free-wage labor replaces required labor in the mining regions. The most significant continuity for the European settlement in Latin America was slavery. Slavery did however change from Native American slaves to Black African slaves, but the concept of slavery remained the same. The key changes were new political structures, increased trade, and Europeans brought over their religion. The Spanish and Portuguese royal governments conquered Latin America.

J.G. Ballards texts Essays

J.G. Ballards texts Essays J.G. Ballards texts Essay J.G. Ballards texts Essay Essay Topic: All Quiet On the Western Front House on Mango Street Empire of the Sun is a novel that takes the reader to the pre and post World War 11, and the repercussions of the detonation of the atom bomb over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, through the eyes of a very young British boy trapped in a war where there are no winners.The novel is a first hand description of most of the experiences of the author J.G. Ballard who was interned there from 1942 to 1945 in the same prison camps mentioned in the book. It is a profound and moving account of what it was like to be a boy in Japanese occupied Shanghai at wartime.J.G. Ballards texts have a great deal in common with each other. The Guardian said he is a writer who can be relied upon. He rarely writes much below his best, and if you develop a taste for his preoccupations you will find it satisfied by any of his earlier four books. Clearly this opinion gives the reader the impression that the novel is regarded as impressive and should be enjoyed by the reader. The Guardian went as far to say, indeed, it could be said that if there is still room for a masterpiece about the Second World War, then this is it. Like other masterpieces it gains its initial effect in standing at a slightly oblique and unexpected angle to its subject matter.Ballards heightened sensitivity to violence, as well as the corollary themes of isolation and social chaos, which permeate much of his work, may well have its roots in his childhood in wartime China. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and technological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature.Due to the theme being war, the reader can expect the language to be predominately harsh and somewhat vile, this use of language reflects the feelings people have towards war, and the feelings the characters would have felt towards the war. The text can be considered as somewhat surreal writing, that beguiles the reader with its gentleness, yet forces the reader to confr ont many atrocious episodes concerning the sick, the dying and the dead. The fact that the reader sees them from a childs perspective makes the descriptions even viler and explicitly shocking. His explicit use of language, and his crude descriptions of the events that occur, lead me to the conclusion that Ballard is unemotionally detached from this story, the events are his memories, yet he doesnt appear to put any feeling into the characters, this is especially the case within Jim. There are several occasions, where Jim witnesses brutal behaviour, yet no emotions of remorse or feelings of pity are apparent.Ballard conveys a sense of place, through his descriptions of the different nationalities that are present within the novel. The protagonist British characters are described as stoical throughout the war. The descriptions given presented of the Chinese give the setting of Shanghai. They are constantly described as insignificant people who only survive from the money that the Brit ish inject into the country. The Japanese, the nation whom instigated the war are seen as the people that give some of the characters hope. This is the case especially for Jim. Their bravery and stoicism impress him. The descriptions given of the Japanese convey a sense of atmosphere. The actions they take create the feelings of many of the characters.The American and Japanese planes are for Jim a symbolism of hope and freedom. Although he idolises the Japanese kamikaze pilots, the sites of the American planes symbolise and signify the end of the war.The novel begins prior to the attack on Pearl Harbour. The significance of the reader recognising this event is clear, as there are many references to the way in which this attack is publicised. To Jims dismay, even the Dean of Shanghai Cathedral had equipped himself with an antique projector. This shows the reader that war was a part of life for the people of Shanghai. This point is emphasised by the opening lines of the novel, Wars ca me early to Shanghai, overtaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze. The dropping of the atom bomb is clearly another significant, event that the reader is supposed to recognise. The descriptions of the event given is complex and in thorough detail. But a flash of light filled the Stadium, flaring over the stands as if an immense American bomb had exploded somewhere to the northeast of Shanghai. Jim smiled at the Japanese, wishing that he could tell him that the light was a premonition of his death, the sight of his small soul joining the larger soul of the dying world. To Jim, the event of the atom bomb was symbolic for the death that was coming to him, and the death that had already reached many, his delirium had reached the stage that disallowed him to realise that the light he was seeing was literally a bomb sent from the Americans.Although Jim is a British boy of the wartime, he has distanced himself from the reality of the war. War as seen through the eyes of a child is an exhilarating and mysterious experience that rarely can be related to reality. The childlike disbelief that war will actually occur is evident many times throughout the novel, Sometimes the Pathe newsreels from England gave him the impression that, despite their unbroken series of defeats; the British people were thoroughly enjoying the war. It is clear that war to the British at this stage of the novel was considered a form of entertainment. The fact that whilst Jim was watching the newsreels, all he could think about was going to Dr. Lockwoods party, clearly shows the distance Jim has to the war.Shanghai during the time the novel was set, was inhabited by British, American and French people. These people were the upper class society of China. They were mainly there for their large firms that operated internationally. China was a colony of the British Empire, something, which greatly tormented the Japanese people as they felt they should be the owner of China. This gre at amount of upper class people had taken over China, and the local inhabitants had become almost inhuman and insignificant. This fact is clear throughout the novel. The opening paragraph demonstrates this sheer insignificance of this nationality of people. Wars came early to Shanghai, overtaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze and returned to this gaudy city all the coffins cast adrift from the funeral piers of the Chinese Bund. The poverty of the Chinese is demonstrated here, the reader is aware that the Chinese cannot even afford to bury their dead. This description is symbolic for the majority of the Chinese race. Their bodies drift away in the wooden coffins, yet are always brought back by the tide, it is almost as if for the Chinese, there is no escape from this land that submises them so greatly. The imagery of the floating corpses introduces the theme of death and survival that pervades the novel.Jims attitude to the Chinese is demonstrated by one simple thing that he says, Amah, dont touch it! Ill kill you! Clearly Jim has no respect for his Chinese slave, he assumes that he has enough power over her to order her death. The beggar outside Jims house demonstrates the social difference between the Chinese and Western European classes. Usually his mother would caution Yang to avoid the old beggar who lay at the end of the drive. But as Yang swung the heavy car through the gates, barely pausing before he accelerated along Amherst Avenue, Jim saw that the front wheel had crushed the mans foot. Even though the reader is aware that Jim has seen this happen to the old beggar, he doesnt appear to show any remorse or guilt towards the man, this lack of feelings is shown again when Jim witnesses the beheadings. The description given of the beheading is in great detail, but Jim doesnt demonstrate that he has any emotions about this public inhumane act. Usually Jim would have paused to observe the crowd, Jim watched the coolies and the pheasan t women staring at the headless bodies. Jim is observing the situation in a manner that suggests to the reader that he is used to this sort of behaviour. This fact supports the stereotype that Ballard has as a detached and unemotional writer. Jims lack of emotion would appear almost abnormal to a reader, as a child would be usually upset and more respectful towards the dead, regardless of their nationality. Jims detachment from reality is once again demonstrated.Dr. Lockwoods party shows a strong contrast between the predominant nationalities within the novel. The British are indulging in extravagant parties, as a war is occurring. The party is full of British people dressed in bright exotic outfits, the entertainment consists of Cantonese acrobats climbing their comical ladders and pretending to disappear into the sky. The party is nothing short of what would be expected from the rich Westerners, but readers may regard it as somewhat insensitive to the war situation. The Chinese th at are there are quietly removing a dead oriole from the deep end of the now drained swimming-pool. There are twenty Chinese women, dressed in black tunics and trousers, each on a miniature stool. They are sat shoulder-to-shoulder, weeding knives flashing at the grass, while keeping up an unstoppable chatter. Ironically, although the war is occurring, the Chinese people are still working as servants for the British; this shows the lack of importance of the Chinese in comparison to the British who are spending their time at a lavish party.It is during the party that Jims admiration of Japanese pilots first emerges. Whilst exploring an abandoned plane, Jim has his first encounter with the Japanese soldiers. He was about to jump from the blockhouse, when he noticed that a face was looking up at him from the trench. A fully armed Japanese soldier squatted by the broken earth wall, his rifle, webbing and ground sheet laid out beside him as if ready for inspection. An entire company of J apanese infantry was resting in this old battlefield, as if re-equipping itself from the dead of an earlier war, ghosts of their former comrades risen from the grave and issued with fresh uniforms and rations. The Japanese appear to be like predators from this description, it is as if they are lying in wait for there pray, this is something that later in the novel Jim begins to admire. The descriptions given of the three nationalities, is a great contrast to what their lives are like within Lunghua Camp. There is almost a role reversal between the British and Chinese, and between the British and the Japanese.The Japanese, the instigators of the war, ironically are greatly admired by Jim, a boy from a nationality who would be considered one of their vast amount of enemies. This admiration comes in many forms throughout this novel. Jim was impressed by their bravery and stoicism, and their sadness which struck a curious chord with him, who was never sad. Although Jim deeply admired th e Japanese, his admiration for them grew stronger due to them having the things he didnt. Food the main attributer to life, was something that Jim lacked, and the Japanese had As they smoked their cigarettes the Japanese smiled to themselves, watching Jim devour the shreds of fatty rice. The Japanese soldier who had taken pity on Jim, recognising that this small boy was starving, began to laugh good-naturedly, and pulled the rubber plug from his metal water-bottle. Food is power within this period of time, it is therefore as if the Japanese are in control of all, they control Jim, but fortunately for him, they do not abuse this power. Due to the kindness of the Japanese soldiers, Jims admiration for them has grown. They have helped his survival. This relationship that Jim has with the Japanese occurs many times within the novel.Private Kimura is example of Jim bonding with a Japanese soldier. Private Kimuras kindness to Jim is clear within the form of many events that occur within t he time that they know each other. Private Kimura had grown almost as much as Jim in his years at the camp. Jims admiration for the Japanese soldier had been noticed and this admiration was fed by Private Kimura often inviting Jim to the bungalow he shared with three other guards and allowed him to wear his kendo armour. This kindness to Jim is later contrasted by the brutal beating of the Chinese Coolie. Like many of Jims previously detailed and dispassionate descriptions of brutal behaviour, the coolies beating isnt described any differently. Private Kimura walked behind the rickshaw and kicked the wooden seat, hurling the vehicle against the coolies legs, raising their staves, they each struck him a blow on the head, then strolled away as if deep in thought. Jim whilst watching this horrid event appeared disconcerned he is described to be wondering whether to read an article about Winston Churchill. All of the British internees of the camp are described to be unconcerned and only sit and observe the event, this demonstrates the differences of nationality status, although the Chinese and the British are both prisoners of war, under the Japanese authority, the Chinese are not given the right to be in a camp and to be looked after, even during times of war, they are inferior to the British and the Americans. The fact that no British internee would help the Chinese coolie shows their sheer unimportance within the eyes of the British. Jims upbringing is questionable here. Is he so disconcerned about the brutal event, as he has been hardened by war, or is he so disconcerned due to him being used to this kind of behaviour bestowed upon the Chinese. The most likely answer would be that he is used to this insignificance for Human life regardless of nationality.The Americans role within the novel is to bring hope. Jim is the predominant character that symbolises this hope. The first American characters to be introduced demonstrate this. Basie and Frank, appear to be using the war as a way to make money, they appear to be disconcerned for their own safety. Frank says that Basie wants to stay in Shanghai now the Japs are here. He thinks we can make a pile of money once we get to the camps. Dr Ransome, someone whom isnt particularly fond of Basie tells Jim that its a good thing that youre friends with Basie. Hes a survivor, though survivors can be dangerous.Many internees consider the American blocks within the camp as the place to be, the place where everything is happening. Jim liked the Americans and approved of them in every way. Whenever he entered this enclave of irony and good humour his spirits rose. There they lay on their bunks and entertained a steady stream of adolescent girls, single British women and even a few wives drawn to them for reasons not very different from Jims. The Americans were clearly the idealised nationality within the camp that held a presence that made them appear to not have any cares in the world, this presence ke pt many people alive. The Americans symbolised hope, this hope for Jim, came within the shape of the American warplanes. Fearsome American planes emerged like pieces of the sun. Jim reflected that the prisoners ought to celebrate, throw their clogs in the air, seize the air raid siren and play it back at the incoming American planes. Although for the prisoners, this should have been a great moment, it wasnt. The repercussions of the war had taken its toll on many of the prisoners, and many like Jim were almost scared to leave the camp, for fear of what life without routine and rules would be like again.The British internees at Lunghua Camp, unlike the Americans refuse to take in the facts that they are prisoners of war, this is evident by due to the fact that they have named parts of the camp after British roads and places. The Vincents, the people whom Jim shared a room with, completely disregarded Jim, even though nationality wise he was one of there own. Mrs Vincent is described as treating Jim like her Number Two Coolie, and he was well aware that he tolerated this for reasons he barely understood. Ironically, the British who treat all Chinese with disrespect are treating Jim one of their own, in the same manner. The fact that Jim is only a child makes the situation even more callus. Mrs Vincent a woman who is already a mother, is pushing away a young boy, and not giving him any help what so ever. The curtain that the Vincents have up within the room is a clear indicator to Jim and to the audience that the Vincents do not want any part in Jims life. They do want to face the realities of war and work together, they want to remain a happy, private family.The British before the war, were described as being lavish and exotic people, they are now within the camp, shown to be the people who are the more feeble race. They are constantly described to be sat in their own excrement, something, which by many is considered to be degrading, and generally an embarrassin g situation. The old women lay in the pools of urine at their husbands feet. The English brothers huddled against Basie while Mrs Hug leaned on her fathers knees. This description is a complete contrast to the previous way in which the British people were described, this description is somewhat similar to the constant way in which the Chinese people are thought of and said to be like.Mr Maxted and Dr Ransome two of the central British characters within the novel are separated from the typical British people. They are both characters that give the other internees hope. They both take on roles of responsibility within the camp. Dr Ransome is not only a doctor for the people, along with Basie; he is Jims tutor. He therefore provides medical help for internees and mental stimulation for Jim. He could therefore be considered as a person of power within the camp, he has to some extent the power to maintain peoples health, and with regards to Jim, he has the power of knowledge.Mr Maxted, t owards the beginning of the novel, is described as a very easygoing man, Jim admired Mr Maxted, an architect turned entrepreneur who had designed the Metropole Theatre and numerous Shanghai nightclubs. Jim often tried to imitate his raffish manner, but soon found that being so relaxed was exhausting work, Mr Maxted was the perfect type of Englishman who had adapted himself to Shanghai. Mr Maxted is clearly an easygoing person, whom is adaptable to many situations. This attribute would help any person survive within the camp circumstances. Mr Maxted on many occasions assists Jim with getting food, making sure he is okay, tasks that an almost father figure would do. Mr Maxted can therefore be considered as a father figure to Jim that remains calm and collected, for the benefit of Jim and many others. Even with the foreboding events that lead to the death of Mr Maxted, he remains calm and gives Jim hope, in every situation possible. Good lad, Jamie you hang on. Mr Maxted is remaining hopeful for the sake of this young boy, whom without people to keep him occupied and hopeful, would more than likely be drawing near to his end.Jim although a British born character, adopts and idolises many other nationality traits. Jims dream is to become a Japanese pilot; this is ironic, as it is the Japanese who are keeping the British people within confinement. On numerous occasions, Jim tells the internees of Lunghua Camp, that he wishes to be a Japanese Kamikaze pilot, and how he admires their bravery and stoicism. Jims cultural upbringing and multicultural town, make him aware of cultural traits and differences between people from different nationalities. As he is only a young boy, Jim would be more inclined to adopt some of these multicultural traits and admire them; therefore his admiration for the Japanese isnt unexpected.Jims friendship with the young Japanese pilot makes the reader look upon the Japanese in a not so harsh light. The Japanese raised his wooden stake. Lik e a sleeper waking from a dream, he hurled it into the nettles. As Jim flinched, he reached into the waist-pocket of his flight overalls and drew out a small mango.Jim took the yellow fruit from the pilots calloused hand. The mango was still warm from his body. This act of kindness shown from the young Japanese pilot, shows the reader that the Japanese are not all cruel people, although they instigated this particular war, they are at war as well, things concerning food etc, are a problem for them to, and the fact that he has given Jim this exotic piece of fruit demonstrates the Japaneses kindness.The novels ends on a somewhat sombre note, although Shanghai has returned to the normal bustling city that it used to be, Jim has grown up and begun to notice the horrors of it, he has in many ways become aware of the horrors that the Chinese suffer from day to day. Jims confinement within the war has opened up his mind to what is right and wrong in respect to the way in which people are t reated. When he witnesses the British and American sailors urinating down the steps, this new awareness becomes evident. Fifty feet below them, the Chinese watched without comment as the arcs of urine formed a foaming stream that ran down the street. When it reached the pavement the Chinese stepped back, their faces expressionless. Jim glanced at the people around him, the clerks and coolies and peasant women, well aware of what they were thinking. One day China would punish the rest of the world, and take a frightening revenge. Jims time within the camp has made him realise that the Chinese are actually alive, their existence has actually become noticeable to Jim, and he now disagrees with the cruel treatment that he once issued onto them.The final paragraph of the novel is very similar to the beginning paragraph, except the mood is greatly different. The description unlike many in the book appears to have a sense of sadness and feeling to it. Previously when the Chinese coffins we re described, a brief description was just given, whereas now, the description ends driven once again to the shores of this terrible city. This feeling added to the final description given of Shanghai, makes the ending of the book powerful. Ballard known not to include any feeling into his work, ends his story with an impact on the reader, they are aware that Jim feels a sense of sadness and possible hatred to the city that he once thought was a great place to be.This novel is a first hand description of a war experience, and is therefore considered by many as a masterpiece. This novel leaves nothing to the imagination, everything is described in great detail, and in a way that paints a picture in the readers mind. This effective use of detached unemotional memories makes the descriptions powerful and creates emotions within the reader.This novel is considered by the Guardian as above all, a book of triumph and truthfulness of tone. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and technological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature. Ballards work although considered by many as somewhat grotesque, is thoroughly enjoyed by many today as a great novel, I would agree with this, it is interesting to read, and every word and description grips the readers attention.

5 Reasons to Start a Writing Group

5 Reasons to Start a Writing Group 5 Reasons to Start a Writing Group 5 Reasons to Start a Writing Group By Mark Nichol You know about writing groups folks who meet at regular intervals to share excerpts from works in progress, exchange tips and information, and discuss conventions such as character, plot, narrative, and tone. But you’ve always shrugged the idea off yet it keeps coming back. Maybe you should reconsider. Here’s why: 1. Discipline Starting a writing group helps you develop deadline discipline because you are accountable for being ready for the next meeting. Such a support structure is a great cure for procrastination and practice for turning manuscripts in on time. 2. Motivation Meeting with kindred spirits helps motivate you to keep trying in the face of adversity, whether it’s in the form of a busy schedule or writer’s block. Writing is by necessity a solitary pursuit but only when you’re pecking away at your keyboard. Interacting at intervals with a small community of like-minded people will give you the nudges you need. 3. Support You’ll benefit from the empathy of others who have also received rejection letters or, just like you, have felt that they didn’t have what it takes to succeed. A writing group will encourage you without being ingratiating. 4. Edification You’ll learn from others and feel a boost of confidence when others acknowledge the value of your advice and information. Whether or not you’re comfortable with your grasp of the building blocks of writing character and the other aspects I mentioned above you’ll note alternative approaches, and it’ll make you feel good to offer your own. Besides learning and teaching about the craft of writing, you can exchange ideas about research and taking notes; finding competitions, publications, or an agent; and preparing pitches and proposals. Remember this: Teaching is one of the most effective ways to learn. 5. Feedback Most important, you’ll get objective, instructive feedback not only on your works in progress but also on your pitches. Go ahead and ask your partner or close friends to evaluate your writing, but consider how much more you will get out of honest, informed responses from people without emotional attachments to you. Why Me? Starting your own group, rather than joining a new or existing one, allows you to call the shots at least when it comes to forming the group. Don’t be the mom; just set the parameters: group size and meeting setting, type or length of writing form, method and other ground rules for presenting works in progress, and so on. And you get to select your compatriots for compatibility with you and your goals and guidelines. The Next Chapter So, now that I’ve convinced you about the why, how about the how? Stay tuned. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:85 Synonyms for â€Å"Help†34 Writing Tips That Will Make You a Better Writer10 Writing Exercises to Tighten Your Writing

Answers the two Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Answers the two Questions - Essay Example The infamous Zimmermann Telegram became the basis of United States formal entry into the conflict. Woodrow Wilson himself gave a speech to congress and declared war on Germany marking the official entry of United States into the World War. My personal opinion is that Zimmermann Telegram was not a good enough reason to enter the war. It was more of a self fulfilling prophecy where United States thought that Mexico would join Germany in turn declaring a war against Germany. The telegram was sent in case United States joined the war therefore it cannot be used as a justification to enter the war. According to Benjamin Freedman, Zionist were the main reason behind US involvement in the war against Germany. Freedman thinks that Zionists wanted assurance from Britain regarding Palestine and in return they took the task of involving US in the war against Germany (Freedman, 1). Jews were controlling all the newspapers and banks so it was easy for them to force US in the war. Freedman concludes that US had no reason to join the war. America was Pro Germany before 1917 to a certain extent and was not interested in the war. America should not have involved itself in the war because there was nothing to gain out of it. United States had little to gain from entering the war but only due to Zionist intervention did they take part in the war. The whole of the world changed as a result of US intervention because it was the first time when public opinion was deliberately changed in order to keep the war efforts going (Spielvogel). American public was not interested in the war but the public was made to believe that they were under threat. All this was done because of a powerful lobby of Zionists in United States. American history for certain would have been far better if US would not have declared war against Germany. Lives were lost and money was wasted, but the most perilous socio

Dance Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Dance Critique - Essay Example the dancers illuminated and ground break in their distinctive ways and stunning costumes forming â€Å"The Essential Balanchine† for the opening night making it the most thrilling, transcendent and unforgettable one. Socially, Balanchine put prominence on changing into modern form and get rid of the extremes and embellishments of the dance style used during the 19th Century. Additionally, he revolutionizes and redefines the function and place of the ballerina, offering her a daring, innovative mobility style in addition to a sense of freedom and empowerment. Firstly, the kind of costumes worn by many dancers while performing shows a complete change from those used during the 19th Century and this portrays evolution of the dancing performance to the social life of the audience especially young generations as the American school was commonly comprised of young generation. For example, the three ballets were originally choreographed by Balanchine for the school of American Ballet back in 1930-s to act as a class work for students where they could vigorously practice to perfect their dance performances (Walter, 2001). However, the use of stunning dancing costumes can negatively impact the society su ch that some young generations have grown imitating some of the dancers as their role models in terms of dressing, walking and even talking and this has accelerated the incidences of crime in our society such as raping especially to young girls who are going half naked in towns in the name of imitating a particular dancer or artist. Despite a few dislikes in terms of dance setting, costumes and the message of the various dancing rhythms used by dances among the three Ballets, we cannot assume some of the movement skills used by different dancers while performing on the stage. The use of facial expressions/movements, dance steps, and catches are very interesting and cannot go unnoticed by the