Dear Ms. Sara Gruen,
I am currently reading your novel “Water for Elephants” and I absolutely love it! The careful details you put into each character make each one extremely unique. I like how you let the reader imagine how the character looks physically, except for a few features you mention, but truly allow the character to emerge in the actions and conversations it has. My favorite character is Jacob because his life is really detailed throughout the novel. It’s also really interesting the flashbacks Jacob has because each chapter alternates between his ninety-year-old self and his twenty-year-old self. It’s also really true that I have pity for him considering he lost both of his parents at such a crucial time in his young life (I have to say, you know just how to pull the readers’ heart strings!) Was Jacob’s character inspired by someone in your life? Did you ever go through any of Jacob’s experiences? How did you decide to write about a traveling circus? Were circuses a special occasion for you as a young child, or did your family members take part in a circus somehow? So far, my favorite part of the novel was when Jacob and Kinko become roommates on the train because the tension between the two of them was so apparent, just with their actions. I really enjoyed how you described how both Jacob and Kinko reacted during that part because you didn’t just say “Jacob was mad” or “Kinko threw his comic book,” the details you put in were fantastic. I absolutely cannot wait to read more of this novel, it really keeps me intrigued!
Sincerely,
Rachel
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Water for Elephants, Week 2, Post A
VOCAB
Jodhpurs (52)- riding breeches that are tight from the knees to the ankles
Snifter (56)- a pear-shaped glass that intensifies the aroma of liqueur
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“The big top still stands, glowing like a ghostly coliseum” (49). This is a metaphor because it compares two unlike things, the glowing big top to a ghostly coliseum, using the word “like”.
“Happy as a clam, that’s me” (53). This is also an example of a metaphor because it compares Camel’s happiness to a clam, using the word “like”. It is evident that Camel is very content because this phrase is commonly used to express someone’s happiness.
“A smirk plays around the edges of his lips” (58). This is an example of personification because it gives the human characteristic of playing to the non-human smirk.
QUOTE
“He’s...mercurial. He’s capable of being the most charming man on earth. Like tonight” (95). Marlena is explaining to Jacob the multiple personalities that August shows. This is important because Jacob begins to understand the reason why August made a joke of Jacob almost getting his arm bitten off by a tiger earlier that day.
THEME
A developing theme in this book is to find a good outcome in a dark situation. Jacob was left alone in the world when his parents died in an accident when he was college, so he decides to join the circus. In the circus, he starts as a low placed cleaning man and gradually works his way up to become the veterinarian for the circus, which he went to school for.
Jodhpurs (52)- riding breeches that are tight from the knees to the ankles
Snifter (56)- a pear-shaped glass that intensifies the aroma of liqueur
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“The big top still stands, glowing like a ghostly coliseum” (49). This is a metaphor because it compares two unlike things, the glowing big top to a ghostly coliseum, using the word “like”.
“Happy as a clam, that’s me” (53). This is also an example of a metaphor because it compares Camel’s happiness to a clam, using the word “like”. It is evident that Camel is very content because this phrase is commonly used to express someone’s happiness.
“A smirk plays around the edges of his lips” (58). This is an example of personification because it gives the human characteristic of playing to the non-human smirk.
QUOTE
“He’s...mercurial. He’s capable of being the most charming man on earth. Like tonight” (95). Marlena is explaining to Jacob the multiple personalities that August shows. This is important because Jacob begins to understand the reason why August made a joke of Jacob almost getting his arm bitten off by a tiger earlier that day.
THEME
A developing theme in this book is to find a good outcome in a dark situation. Jacob was left alone in the world when his parents died in an accident when he was college, so he decides to join the circus. In the circus, he starts as a low placed cleaning man and gradually works his way up to become the veterinarian for the circus, which he went to school for.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Water for Elephants, Week 1, Post B
Dear Mr. Jacob Jankowski,
I have just read the first fifty pages of Water for Elephants and I am truly enjoying reading about your life story. I am so sorry about all of the losses and grief you have had to endure in your life. First of all, living through the Great Depression must have been an experience that truly tested people’s hearts. Did it ever register in your mind what was happening because you were quite young at the time? How was your family and school life changed during the depression? It would be really interesting to know how your family was affected by it, but I’m sure that would take an entirely new novel to describe. Secondly, the death of your parents must have turned your world upside down. I send my greatest sympathies to you because that should be an experience no teenager has to live through. Will you ever be able to forgive Mr. McPherson for the death of your parents? If I was in your situation, it would be extremely hard for me to forgive a person for the unintentional death of my parents because my family is very close and I also hold grudges for a long time. I continue to be amazed at how you were able to move on with your life with such composure, though I’m sure they are never far out of your mind. Well, I will move on to some happier thoughts now! The Benzini Brothers Circus sounds like an exciting show to be involved in. I think it would be an amazing experience to be a part of the circus and have contact with so many unique people, whether it’s the trainers, performers, crew, or even the animals. I wish you the best of luck in the circus business, or whatever dream you wish to pursue!
Sincerely,
Rachel
I have just read the first fifty pages of Water for Elephants and I am truly enjoying reading about your life story. I am so sorry about all of the losses and grief you have had to endure in your life. First of all, living through the Great Depression must have been an experience that truly tested people’s hearts. Did it ever register in your mind what was happening because you were quite young at the time? How was your family and school life changed during the depression? It would be really interesting to know how your family was affected by it, but I’m sure that would take an entirely new novel to describe. Secondly, the death of your parents must have turned your world upside down. I send my greatest sympathies to you because that should be an experience no teenager has to live through. Will you ever be able to forgive Mr. McPherson for the death of your parents? If I was in your situation, it would be extremely hard for me to forgive a person for the unintentional death of my parents because my family is very close and I also hold grudges for a long time. I continue to be amazed at how you were able to move on with your life with such composure, though I’m sure they are never far out of your mind. Well, I will move on to some happier thoughts now! The Benzini Brothers Circus sounds like an exciting show to be involved in. I think it would be an amazing experience to be a part of the circus and have contact with so many unique people, whether it’s the trainers, performers, crew, or even the animals. I wish you the best of luck in the circus business, or whatever dream you wish to pursue!
Sincerely,
Rachel
Water for Elephants, Week 1, Post A
VOCAB
Rubes (3)- slang for an unsophisticated country person
Languidly (15)- lacking spirit
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“That moment, the music screeched to a halt. There was an ungodly collision of brass, reed, and percussion-trombones and piccolos skidded into cacophony, a tuba farted, and the hallow clang of a cymbal wavered out of the big top, over our heads and into oblivion” (2). This is an example of imagery because the detailed description of the horrible sounds appeals to the sense of hearing. The great detail in this sentence allows the author to convey to the reader the exact sounds she wants them to imagine.
“Her sequins flashed like liquid diamonds” (4). This is an example of a simile, because it compares two things, the sequins to liquid diamonds. The simile accurately describes just how the sequins flashed because they were so gleaming and shiny like diamonds.
“Snatches of sky peek through leaves” (22). Because the sky is given the human characteristic of peeking, or being able to see, through the leaves this is an example of personification.
QUOTE
“Age is a terrible thief. Just when you’re getting the hang of life, it knocks your legs out form under you and stoops your back...being the survivor stinks” (12). Jacob wants to go back to his younger days when he was physically able to do things and his wife was still living. Ever since his wife died, Jacob has thought deeply about his life and sometimes wishes he would have died too, so that he wouldn’t have to watch himself and everyone around him grow old and frail.
THEME
An emerging theme in this novel is perseverance. Jacob faces many challenges throughout his life, including living during the Great Depression, losing his parents while he is in college, and losing his wife of 61 years. Yet through all of these difficult times, Jacob is able to find the motivation to keep living and he perseveres.
Rubes (3)- slang for an unsophisticated country person
Languidly (15)- lacking spirit
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“That moment, the music screeched to a halt. There was an ungodly collision of brass, reed, and percussion-trombones and piccolos skidded into cacophony, a tuba farted, and the hallow clang of a cymbal wavered out of the big top, over our heads and into oblivion” (2). This is an example of imagery because the detailed description of the horrible sounds appeals to the sense of hearing. The great detail in this sentence allows the author to convey to the reader the exact sounds she wants them to imagine.
“Her sequins flashed like liquid diamonds” (4). This is an example of a simile, because it compares two things, the sequins to liquid diamonds. The simile accurately describes just how the sequins flashed because they were so gleaming and shiny like diamonds.
“Snatches of sky peek through leaves” (22). Because the sky is given the human characteristic of peeking, or being able to see, through the leaves this is an example of personification.
QUOTE
“Age is a terrible thief. Just when you’re getting the hang of life, it knocks your legs out form under you and stoops your back...being the survivor stinks” (12). Jacob wants to go back to his younger days when he was physically able to do things and his wife was still living. Ever since his wife died, Jacob has thought deeply about his life and sometimes wishes he would have died too, so that he wouldn’t have to watch himself and everyone around him grow old and frail.
THEME
An emerging theme in this novel is perseverance. Jacob faces many challenges throughout his life, including living during the Great Depression, losing his parents while he is in college, and losing his wife of 61 years. Yet through all of these difficult times, Jacob is able to find the motivation to keep living and he perseveres.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Athena, "You've Got a Friend"
Athena is a goddess who is always willing to help others get out of a tough situation. I think she exemplifies a strong willed woman because of her ability to be there for other people when they need her most. I like that Athena is a strong goddess who tests her own strength by helping others and that she disguises herself when she does so.
In two situations, she has demonstrated her ability to assist others in difficult situations. During book two, she disguises herself as a friend of Odysseus and gives Telemachus hope and courage that he can succeed on his journey to find his father, “Athena came to his prayer from close at hand, for all the world with Mentor’s build and voice and she urged him on with willing words” (300-302). Later, in book five, she saves Odysseus from the storm that Poseidon has created against him, “Zeus’s daughter Athena countered him at once. The rest of the winds she stopped right in their tracks, commanding them all to hush now, go to sleep” (421-423).
James Taylor’s song “You’ve Got a Friend” is a moving piece that represents the support a person needs during tough times. The lyrics fully embrace Athena’s willingness to encourage others to do their best when times turn difficult. In particular, these lyrics illustrate the encouragement Athena always gives to others and her ability to be there whenever they need her, because she is a goddess: “When you’re down and troubled /And you need a helping hand / And nothing, whoa nothing is going right. / Close your eyes and think of me / And soon I will be there / To brighten up even your darkest nights. / You just call out my name, / And you know wherever I am / Ill come running, oh yeah baby / To see you again.” Athena is more than willing to lend a hand, whether it’s giving Telemachus hope, or saving Odysseus from the shipwreck, she’s always there and ready to help.
In two situations, she has demonstrated her ability to assist others in difficult situations. During book two, she disguises herself as a friend of Odysseus and gives Telemachus hope and courage that he can succeed on his journey to find his father, “Athena came to his prayer from close at hand, for all the world with Mentor’s build and voice and she urged him on with willing words” (300-302). Later, in book five, she saves Odysseus from the storm that Poseidon has created against him, “Zeus’s daughter Athena countered him at once. The rest of the winds she stopped right in their tracks, commanding them all to hush now, go to sleep” (421-423).
James Taylor’s song “You’ve Got a Friend” is a moving piece that represents the support a person needs during tough times. The lyrics fully embrace Athena’s willingness to encourage others to do their best when times turn difficult. In particular, these lyrics illustrate the encouragement Athena always gives to others and her ability to be there whenever they need her, because she is a goddess: “When you’re down and troubled /And you need a helping hand / And nothing, whoa nothing is going right. / Close your eyes and think of me / And soon I will be there / To brighten up even your darkest nights. / You just call out my name, / And you know wherever I am / Ill come running, oh yeah baby / To see you again.” Athena is more than willing to lend a hand, whether it’s giving Telemachus hope, or saving Odysseus from the shipwreck, she’s always there and ready to help.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
House Lights, Week 7, Post B
Dear Miss Beatrice Fisher-Hart,
I was really intrigued reading the last section of the novel of your life and I want to know how your life was after it! It was confusing to me why you wouldn’t want your best friend Maeve to attend your mother’s funeral when she brought you to the airport. Did you figure it would be too painful for her to attend? Or was it because you wanted to appear strong and not rely on the support of your dear friend? Anyways, I found this quote really profound, “On the planet Fisher-Hart the truth did not exist, the atmosphere being too thin to support it” (257). It so accurately describes the main problem within your family, that of telling the truth and also exemplifies how myopic your family was because you had your own “planet”. Do you believe that your parents chose not to tell the truth in order to protect your other family members, or were they truly incapable of doing so? Though you have made mistakes in blaming others for certain events, I am glad you have realized these mistakes and tried to reconnect with those it hurt. For example, you were mad at your father for the accusations, but you never talked to him about them. Also, you were mad at Hale for being old and becoming sick, but it’s the risk you take when you marry an older man. At least you realized these mistakes before the relationships you had with these men were completely severed. Do you believe your relationship with your father was like that of the relationship between your mother and grandmother? Though your relationship with your father has been difficult and at some times nonexistent for the past 20 years, I am thrilled that you have reconciled with him and begun the road to acceptance.
Sincerely,
Rachel
I was really intrigued reading the last section of the novel of your life and I want to know how your life was after it! It was confusing to me why you wouldn’t want your best friend Maeve to attend your mother’s funeral when she brought you to the airport. Did you figure it would be too painful for her to attend? Or was it because you wanted to appear strong and not rely on the support of your dear friend? Anyways, I found this quote really profound, “On the planet Fisher-Hart the truth did not exist, the atmosphere being too thin to support it” (257). It so accurately describes the main problem within your family, that of telling the truth and also exemplifies how myopic your family was because you had your own “planet”. Do you believe that your parents chose not to tell the truth in order to protect your other family members, or were they truly incapable of doing so? Though you have made mistakes in blaming others for certain events, I am glad you have realized these mistakes and tried to reconnect with those it hurt. For example, you were mad at your father for the accusations, but you never talked to him about them. Also, you were mad at Hale for being old and becoming sick, but it’s the risk you take when you marry an older man. At least you realized these mistakes before the relationships you had with these men were completely severed. Do you believe your relationship with your father was like that of the relationship between your mother and grandmother? Though your relationship with your father has been difficult and at some times nonexistent for the past 20 years, I am thrilled that you have reconciled with him and begun the road to acceptance.
Sincerely,
Rachel
House Lights, Week 7, Post A
VOCAB
Locution (257)- a style of speech
Harangues (283)- to deliver a long, arrogant speech to
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“It is snow-globe snow, tiny and whirling in slow motion, more glitter than flake” (254). This is imagery because it describes the particular kind of snow and how it was falling. This detail makes it easy to imagine the exact type of snow the author wanted to convey to the reader in a simple and effective way.
“…the minute, cloying sound of icicles dripping, like a cat lapping milk” (259). This is a simile, because it compares two unlike things, the sound of dripping icicles to a cat drinking milk, using the word “like”.
“I am left with it now, that model, like an inheritance, and it strikes me, as I stare at my reflection in her bathroom mirror, that in a way that is everything” (290). The act of Beatrice staring into her deceased mother’s mirror is a symbol for Beatrice realizing how alike she is to her mother and the unique relationship they shared.
QUOTE
“…the overriding smallness of Maine, which evokes for me the smallness of my parents’ lives, which evokes for me the smallness of my own heart” (261-2). Beatrice begins to realize just how insignificant her parents’ lives are and how her own heart lacks the ability to truly love people. She understands that her parents had the potential to positively affect more lives but chose not to. Also, the realization that her own heart is capable of loving but it is rather difficult to do so because of her childhood relationships.
THEME
A theme in this novel is to love those around you and appreciate the unique characteristics of everyone. This kind of accepting love will allow a person to have closer relationships with the people they love, because they aren’t focused on the negative traits.
Locution (257)- a style of speech
Harangues (283)- to deliver a long, arrogant speech to
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
“It is snow-globe snow, tiny and whirling in slow motion, more glitter than flake” (254). This is imagery because it describes the particular kind of snow and how it was falling. This detail makes it easy to imagine the exact type of snow the author wanted to convey to the reader in a simple and effective way.
“…the minute, cloying sound of icicles dripping, like a cat lapping milk” (259). This is a simile, because it compares two unlike things, the sound of dripping icicles to a cat drinking milk, using the word “like”.
“I am left with it now, that model, like an inheritance, and it strikes me, as I stare at my reflection in her bathroom mirror, that in a way that is everything” (290). The act of Beatrice staring into her deceased mother’s mirror is a symbol for Beatrice realizing how alike she is to her mother and the unique relationship they shared.
QUOTE
“…the overriding smallness of Maine, which evokes for me the smallness of my parents’ lives, which evokes for me the smallness of my own heart” (261-2). Beatrice begins to realize just how insignificant her parents’ lives are and how her own heart lacks the ability to truly love people. She understands that her parents had the potential to positively affect more lives but chose not to. Also, the realization that her own heart is capable of loving but it is rather difficult to do so because of her childhood relationships.
THEME
A theme in this novel is to love those around you and appreciate the unique characteristics of everyone. This kind of accepting love will allow a person to have closer relationships with the people they love, because they aren’t focused on the negative traits.
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