‘There is
Definitely Power in Numbers’ – Yllom ‘Nerjee
Written By:
Zehra Nasirali
For: Mr.
Cameron
Course: ENG-4AI
Date: 23rd
December, 1999
English independent study units usually imply 'freedom', since only a few major guidelines usually accompany the topics provided. Fortunately, the source of my interest is a given option on this assignment; novels. Without hesitation, I select novels as my focus for this project for various reasons. Novels contain very detailed descriptions via the numerous and selectively picked adjectives that further enhance the story that the novel relates. Detail is a vital component that I find very satisfying to the perception of a novel; I simply enjoy reading descriptions. Furthermore, within every novel a theme and/or a message is embedded, and it is intended to be related to its readers. Searching for that knowledge not only quenches my hunger but also helps me to learn more about my self; how I would face a certain situation or react to a certain incident within the novel if it were in real life.
A well-written novel focuses not simply on one theme but several. It is the basis around which the action of the novel occurs. The themes I intend to work on are those of corruption, violence and the quarrel with the inner self. In order to analyse such themes, I choose for my foundation two particular novels: 'Foxfire' by Joyce Carol Oates and Anthony Burgess's 'A Clockwork Orange'. The sole purpose '" for my selection of themes is to research the early stages of what are today's often occurring 'shooting rampages'. Tracking down to the time period of as far back as the 1960's will hopefully satisfy my inquiries.
A novel is more effective if its author is experienced in the situations similar to the subject of the novel. This supports my reason of associating these two authors with these particular themes; both these authors are qualified to empathise with what their story permits to narrate, as they both have lived in a similar violent society. However, I read these novels with a particular expectation. Skimming through the introduction of 'A Clockwork Orange' I learn that this ingenious work of art serves as a catharsis for Lynne's (Anthony Burgess's wife) unfortunate mishap with a gang of four. However, despite this touching reason, I personally expect to find the work of Joyce Carol Oates to be more effective. This is not because her novel holds confessions of truth but because of something we both have in common; a naive mind that has been shocked to face society's unfortunate cries of help. In addition, I expect Oates's novel to shine the brutal truth upon my face that she discovered in her prime age of twenty-five. Furthermore, I begin these novels with a great passion to prove my expectations to be true.
Teachers Comments: Excellent Work! You’ve done a great deal of work so far. All I can say is follow this plan, narrow your theme and all will be well. 100%