"A Very Short Story"

There are many figurative languages in the story; for example the main female character's name is Luz that sounds like "lose" in english and has spanish translation as "light", which is forshadowing the further events to happen. As we already discussed, her name gives a hint of what is gong to happen with the relationship between Luz and protagonist. Eventually they will end up seperatly no matter how strong their love seemed to be. The protagonist loses her after he goes to States to earn some money. Also, I have my own guess to the meaning of her name in spanish, as we assumed that the main male character is alcoholic, I think Luz brought the "light" to his life. She saves his life both as nurse and as woman; regarding the setting she is his reliance through all the  difficulties. While he was away fighting, she wrote letters supporting him and giving a reason to live. Nonetheless, he "loses" that "light" which causes him to end up very badly.  

Interview

To get the ball rolling, I really enjoyed this kind of class work where we have to deal with real situation, such as having communication with totally unknown people. Needless to say how it is effective to our learning process of developing language skills. Though it was hard to find people who were not busy at that time, I've interviewed tree girls and one guy. The first person I've questioned was Robin, she doesn't write on Tweeter, on a blog, or in a diary; as her favourite form of social media she's chosen Internet. Although, she doesn't write, Robin still thinks it is very effective and in some way important to do reflective writing. Her opinion about advantages of reflective writing is that it helps to organize thoughts. Personally, I agree with Robin it's definitely makes easier to manage your time, thoughts and yourself. The other two girls, Anna and Gracie, also were not very enthusiastic about writing. Obviously, for them Internet, Facebook, and magazines are the most favourite types of social media because they are young. For Anna and Gracie reflective writing is something that helps to get your emotions out and leads to develop your personal growth. Honestly, I think it is well-pointed ideas. Eventually, I found someone who does write that kind of reflective writing. It was Chris, the only boy I have interviewed, writes on Tweeter once a week. Similarly to the girls his favourite social media is Internet. Chris thinks that the advantage of reflective writing is "leaves a state of mind at a certain time".

"Red Thread Maiden" & "Gold Mountain Coat"

Red Thread Maiden

The author of "Red Thread Maiden" shows in his story the nature of men and women. The story begins by describing Red Thread Maiden as intelligent person, also she was able to feel "the emotional state of the player by listening to the tune of the musical instrument". Though General Hsueh Sung is kind and less aggressive, his nature is still different from Red Thread Maiden. When the conflict rased between General Tien Cheng-tze, who wanted to move to the General Hsueh Sung territory due to his health issue, and General Hsueh Sung the one who solved the problem was Red Thread Maiden without spilling a drop of a blood. Obviously, General Sung worried a lot but she wasn't panicing; it shows her as peaceful and undisturbed. Also, the difference is seen when Red Thread Maiden had opportunity to kill General Tien while he was sleeping "with his chest uncovered".  Moreover, when she was going back she enjoyed the spectacular view without fear to be captured. After she arrived the first question of General Sung was "Did you do any killing?", which tells about men's nature. Thus we see difference between man and woman throw their actions, thoughts and intentions. 

Gold Mountain Coat

The story is told by the young chinese boy, who describes events at a certain period of his childhood from the first point of view. During cold winter time his neighbours, who owns the restaurant, has a problem with warm clothes and, basically, money. The neighbour's family also were chinese immigrants that consists of father and two grown up sons. Due to father's strict character both of his sons never spend money without a permission from him. The two sons were sharing one coat with each other in winter. The boy describes conflict between father and one of his son, who wants to move his family to Canada. Because it was cold and the family were arriving soon, his son decided to buy another coat, but he didn't dare to ask money from his father. Eventually, the conflict was solved by second son who suggested to buy other coat in order give and share it with nephew, when he'll come there and starts his school.

"Being There"

Being There

 I think Ben like most successful businessmen is clever, smart, intelligent and wise. For this characteristics his is respected by many powerful people, such as President. Chance's appearance in Ben's life changed him. Ben became more calmer and the fact of death does't scare him anymore. Ben found true friend whom he really needed this situation. What attract me more is Ben's wiseness; no matter of great love to Eve, he understands that she needs somebody else because he can't do his duty as husband. 

 Politic world is surrounded by lies, everyone try their best to gain profit for themselves. Politician speech is exsactly opposite to Chance's which we can see during the whole movie. They never say truth, especially if there is a problem, instead they say thousands needless words. Also we see government's power; whenever it is needed they can find information about anyone.

 "Life is a state of mind" originally saying "Happiness is a state of mind" which means, as I understand, you can build your happiness but in this case your life. It suggests that you can build your life as you wish it to be. Being away from influence of other peoples opinions, thoughts and believes.

 It is quite meaningful movie that shows in what world we live. Our lives are full of many obstacles, people surround themselves with lies and illusion. I liked this movie even though sometimes it was a bit hard to understand. It reveals truth in one man's story. However the final moment left me with the felling that only Saints or God can be truly pure and untouched. 

My first blog!

Hello Everybody,

My name is Anelya. I've been studying in ElI for 2 sessions, so far it's good. My great passions are sports, TV, and Chocolate, mmm!!!Unfortunately for this class, I don't like writing so much, however, it will be exciting to try something new(blogging).