AD's English Literature

Introduction: Image by  Simon  from  Pixabay Ecocriticism is a literary theory that examines how literature represents and interacts with the environment, and it often seeks to promote environmental awareness and advocacy.  Ted Hughes' "My Own True Family" can be analyzed as an ecocritical poem, where the focus is on exploring the relationship between humans and the natural world from an ecological perspective.  The speaker recounts a transformative experience in an oakwood. They encounter an old woman with a mysterious bag, and after a series of events, they find themselves surrounded by oak trees, which claim to be their true family. The oaks accuse the speaker of disregarding their fate and demand a promise from them. Let's explore deeper into how this poem aligns with ecocritical themes:

"Thunderstorms" is a poem by William Henry Davies that explores the tumultuous nature of the poet's mind through the metaphor of thunderstorms. The poem expresses the contrast between the poet's troubled and silent thoughts and the liberating effect of words.  Davies draws a comparison between his own mind, as a writer, and the vast expanse of the sky. He employs the metaphor of dark thunderclouds to represent the thoughts that fill his mind, which weigh heavily upon him and create a sense of oppressiveness. However, he also recognizes that it is these very clouds that eventually give way to rain, enabling plants to grow and flowers to bloom.

The context of Charlotte Mew's "June, 1915" is England during the first summer after the outbreak of World War I in August 1914. This poignant poem captures the contrast between the innocent enthusiasm of a child, who delights in the sight of the first rose of summer, and the numbed sensibilities of war-weary adults. These adults, consumed by the war that threatened both the human and natural worlds, remain unmoved by the beauty of nature. However, the poem's final two lines offer a glimmer of hope. Neither the cyclical rejuvenation of nature in June nor the innocent joys of childhood embodied by "him" are affected by destruction and bloodshed. Over time, these forces of renewal and innocence will overcome and eventually overshadow the pain and suffering caused by war.

Analyzing the Tragic Downfall of Fortunato in Poe's Haunting Tale Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado" is a chilling and suspenseful short story that revolves around the demise of the character Fortunato. The narrative pen portrays the deadly combination of drunkenness and pride, which ultimately leads Fortunato to his tragic end. As we examine the elements of intoxication and arrogance in the story, we gain insight into the psychological depth of Poe's masterful storytelling.

Introduction: "Hewers of Coal" 1937 is a powerful one-act play written by Joe Corrie , a Scottish dramatist and former miner. Set in the backdrop of the mining industry, Corrie sheds light on the harsh working conditions and the struggles faced by the working class during the early 20th century. This essay will explore the themes, characters, and dramatic elements present in "Hewers of Coal," highlighting its realistic portrayal of the miners' lives and the choices they are forced to make in the face of adversity.

"Television"   is a part of a song sung by the Oompa-Loompas in  "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," from which the following lines are extracted , a race of small people employed in Mr Wonka's chocolate factory. The song vividly describes the negative effects of television, referred to as the 'idiot box,' on children. However, one can safely argue that television has a similar impact on many adults, gradually diminishing their desire to read and stifling their imagination and critical thinking abilities.

"The Village Song" by Sarojini Naidu is a poem that explores the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires. It portrays a conversation between a mother and her daughter, referred to as "Honey, child," as the daughter expresses her intention to leave home and venture into the wild forest. We encounter the doubts and fears of a simple village girl from Mathura as she returns home after fetching water from the river Jamuna. Mathura and Jamuna are often associated with the legends of the Vaishnav deity, Krishna. However, in this poem, the girl seeks protection from Ram during her journey from the river. The poem covers the themes of freedom, longing, and the allure of the unknown.

In "Cities and Thrones and Powers," Kipling highlights the paradoxical nature of human existence. While our individual lives are transient and fleeting, our collective creations—such as cities—are capable of enduring and leaving a lasting impact. The poem urges readers to embrace the boldness and resilience of nature, and to recognize the legacy that can be forged through our endeavors, even as we remain blind to their full scope.

The poem "What Shall I Give My Children" by Gwendolyn Elizabeth Brooks reflects upon the speaker's contemplation of what she can offer her children, who are marginalized and impoverished. The poem revolves into themes of poverty, inequality, and the limitations placed upon the children due to their circumstances.

  Mississippi River Image by  Yinan Chen  from  Pixabay Langston Hughes, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance , infused his writings with the vibrant influence of jazz music and a captivating sense of rhythm, even when employing free verse. His poetry prominently showcases his own black identity, effectively amplifying the voice of oppressed African Americans and frequently recounting the historical experiences of their struggles. "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" exemplifies Hughes' such distinctive style. Written in free verse, it portrays the recollections of a black man reflecting on his profound connection with the ancient rivers of the world, which served as the cradles of civilization. Hughes intentionally employs the term "negro" in this poem, emphasizing racial identity. Historically, this word was utilized by white European colonizers to reinforce the notion of African races' inferiority based on the color of their skin. Due to these racial co...

 The Bells of Shandon by Francis Sylvester Mahony With deep affection and recollection I often think of the Shandon bells, Whose sounds so wild would, in the days of childhood, Fling around my cradle their magic spells. On this I ponder where'er I wander, And thus grow fonder, sweet Cork, of thee; With thy bells of Shandon, That sound so grand on The pleasant waters of the river Lee. I've heard bells chiming full many a clime in, Tolling sublime in cathedral shrine, While at a glib rate brass tongues would vibrate; But all their music spoke naught to thine; For memory, dwelling on each proud swelling Of thy belfry, knelling its bold notes free, Made the bells of Shandon Sound more grand on The pleasant waters of the river Lee. I've heard bells tolling old "Adrian's Mole" in, Their thunder rolling from the Vatican, And cymbals glorious, swinging uproarious In the gorgeous turrets of Notre Dame; But thy sounds were sweeter than the dome of Peter Flings o'er ...

Going Down Hill on a Bicycle Henry Charles Beeching A Boy's Song With lifted feet, hands still, I am poised, and down the hill Dart, with heedful mind; The air goes by in a wind. Swifter and yet more swift, Till the heart with a mighty lift Makes the lungs laugh, the throat cry:— "O bird, see; see, bird, I fly. "Is this, is this your joy? O bird, then I, though a boy, For a golden moment share Your feathery life in air!" Say, heart, is there aught like this In a world that is full of bliss? 'Tis more than skating, bound Steel-shod to the level ground. Speed slackens now, I float Awhile in my airy boat; Till, when the wheels scarce crawl, My feet to the treadles fall. Alas, that the longest hill Must end in a vale; but still, Who climbs with toil, wheresoe'er, Shall find wings waiting there. Introduction: Image by  Benjamin Balazs   from  Pixabay In the poem "Going Down Hill on a Bicycle : A Boy's Song" by Henry Charles Beeching, the author beaut...

  Image by  Victoria_Regen   from  Pixabay Hey there, students! Today, I want to talk to you about a topic that I'm sure many of you can relate to: what are the best choices of literature among young kids? As an avid reader and a lover of children's literature, I have a lot to say on this topic, so let's dive in! First of all, when it comes to choosing literature for young kids, it's important to consider their age and reading level. When it comes to choosing literature for young kids, there are several factors to consider, including age-appropriateness, educational value, engaging content, and diverse perspectives. For very young children, picture books with simple stories and bright, engaging illustrations are a great choice. As they get older and begin to read on their own, early chapter books with short chapters and larger font sizes can help build their confidence and love for reading.

Introduction: Drawing of de la Mare by Sir William Rothenstein "All That's Past" is a poem written by Walter de la Mare , an English poet and writer. The poem explores the theme of time, reflecting on the age and beauty of nature, the passing of history, and the fleeting nature of human existence. It recounts into the eternal cycle of life and the mysteries that lie beyond human comprehension. Through vivid imagery and contemplative language, de la Mare invites readers to ponder the profound aspects of the past and the transient nature of our own lives. In fact, Walter de la Mare's poetry primarily revolves around childhood, fantasy, the supernatural, and experiences that transcend the ordinary. This poem exemplifies his remarkable ability to conjure vivid imagery while delving into the immense expanse of time that connects our familiar present to a buried past shrouded in mystery. Within the verses, the emergence of newborn and enchanting spring flowers serves as a ...

The Power of Words: How Feminist Literature Has Shaped Our Modern World Introduction Image by  Natalia Lavrinenko  from  Pixabay Feminist literature is a powerful tool that has been used to promote gender equality and challenge traditional gender roles. This form of literature has had a significant impact on contemporary society, shaping the way we view and understand gender issues. In this essay, we will examine the influence of feminist literature on society today.

Joseph Addison by Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt Will Wimble is a fictional character from the essay "Sir Roger and Will Wimble" (Spectator No. 108) written by Joseph Addison. He is portrayed as a contrasting figure to Sir Roger de Coverley, representing the social and political attitudes prevalent in early 18th-century England.  While Sir Roger represents the archetype of a traditional country gentleman with his noble birth, extensive estate, and adherence to customs, Will Wimble serves as a stark contrast. Will, the younger brother of a baronet, lacks a specific occupation or inherited wealth. Instead, he lives as a dependant on his elder brother's estate, engaging in leisurely pursuits such as hunting and various handicrafts. Will's amiable and obliging nature endears him to all, making him a cherished figure in the community. 

Philip Roth, an acclaimed American novelist, short-story writer, and essayist, pens the complex issues of assimilation and identity within the American Jewish community in his writing. Like the renowned Nobel Prize-winning author Saul Bellow, Roth is a prominent figure in contemporary psychological realism, capturing the essence of the Jewish American experience. However, Roth also skillfully incorporates elements of fantasy and the grotesque, drawing inspiration from the surrealistic style of Czech novelist Franz Kafka. In his novel "The Breast" (1972), for instance, Roth ventures into the realm of absurdity as he portrays a man undergoing a bewildering transformation into a giant female breast. Philip Roth's Zuckerman Bound novels and his American Trilogy are two prominent literary series that showcase the author's talent and thematic exploration. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Unveiling the Transformative Power of Literature: Developing Social Conscience and Values through Reading and Analysis 1. Exploring Cultural Diversity and Ethical Challenges: The Transformative Role of Literature in Developing Social Values H ave you ever wondered how we can develop our social values through our English literature studies? As a Teacher myself, I strongly believe that reading and analyzing literature can be a powerful tool in developing our social conscience and values among students. As we read stories, we learn about different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. We see how characters interact with one another, and how they deal with ethical dilemmas. By analyzing these stories, we are exposed to different viewpoints and are challenged to think critically about our own beliefs.