Tuesday, March 27, 2012

It Was The Gamma Rays!

Privyet, Americans!
That's Russian. Don't worry, it means 'hello.'
Anyways. I read Act I of 'The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-The-Moon Marigolds.' And then, since I wasn't looking and was completely wrapped up in the story, read Act II also. But don't worry, I won't spoil anything. It's just really good.
I must say, this play was really enjoyable. I didn't really expect that, but it was, and I was kind of surprised. In only sixty or so pages, Paul Zindel created a deep, powerful play. However, I did have trouble relating to the story. The characters in the story lead very different lives than the people in my life, myself included. However, I can associate with the problems between Tillie and her sister, Ruth. It's clear Ruth loves and cares about Tillie, but she doesn't hesitate to embarrass her or give her problems. My brothers act the same way, giving me crap, but still being kind when they need to be.
Overall, this play was really interesting to read. It's exciting, emotional, and thoughtful. I really wish it was longer than it was! But enough of my talking. Go finish it!

Book- The Hunger Games- Suzanne Collins (Why did I put this here? You've all read it already)
Video Game- Tales of Vesperia
Music- Welcome Home- Coheed and Cambria
Classical Music- Anything by Mr. Howard Shore. ANYTHING.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Everyone Dies. The End.

Sorry if the title gave anything away. But it's true.
I finished Romeo and Juliet, in case you couldn't tell. And turns out, it doesn't get any better towards the end at all. It only gets worse. Seriously, everyone in this story is all annoying and whiny and lovey and GAH WHY DOES EVERYONE HAVE TO LOVE EVERYONE TO DEATH-
*deep breath
Anyways. I wrote an essay about the theme of tragedy, as follows. Enjoy.


Romeo and Juliet is a good example of classical tragedy. Shakespeare portrayed this theme throughout the play, affecting everything the characters do, and greatly changing the plot itself. It begins to show from very close to the beginning, when Romeo is depressed about his newest romance issues. No amount of consolation or encouragement from his friends can pull him from his misery.
This changes when he meets the love of his life, Juliet. But of course, they are from rival houses, and are not allowed to love each other. Now, the tragedy is in full swing, as Romeo and Juliet try their hardest to love each other, though it seems no one else wants them to. Juliet, of course, is being forced to marry Paris, which causes more problems.
She decides to pretend to die (tragic death), hoping she can escape the arranged marriage. But she fools even Romeo, who after learning of her death, decides he will kill himself. He goes to Juliet’s tomb to end his own life, but ends up getting in a fight with Paris. He kills Paris (more death) then kills himself at Juliet’s side (more death). Juliet awakens to find Romeo dead, and so kills herself (more death), so they may be together forever. In the end, the family rivalry ends (albeit it at a price) as the Montagues and Capulets find the dead couple. Using tragic themes such as forbidden love, bitter feuds, underlying anger, and overall sadness, Shakespeare creates an air of tragedy and woe around all who read Romeo and Juliet. 


So yeah. Everyone dies. Enjoy.

Book- Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Yep, the next one)
Video Game- Star Fox 64 (Totally re-discovered this. It's so amazing)
Music- Atlantis- Deas Vail
Classical- The Planets- Holst

See you all tomorrow! Have a nice day/week!