RCL #3 Writing From a War

From pages 116-123 of Addario’s book, the text is exceedingly interesting. This is somewhat due to the immense amount of potential violence but mostly because of how Addario portrays it.

First, Addario manifests into written language the palpable tension by utilizing syntax. Her sentence structure during questioning (page 118) displays a quick back-and-forth conversation by being concise. Furthermore, she choses to use quotes to draw in the audience into the first person narrative. Addario could have easily summarized this part, but its importance is emphasized by the expert usage of syntax.

Second, Addario illustrates the vivid scene by carefully manipulating diction. For example, she repeats the phrase “Oh my God” ten times on page 118. This depicts the intensity of the moment. It beckons to be recognized due to its repetition; a reader can’t ignore this.

Most importantly is Addario’s use of italicization in this section. It separates her innermost thoughts from the outside world, a peak into the mind of the author. A technique that builds an emotional connection between the reader and author, the italicization plays an important role in understanding not only the scene, but also her character development.

In my own writing, I can easily incorporate Addario’s techniques regarding syntax and diction.

I am blogging about law and the Supreme Court; thus, the structure of words is of utmost importance. The power of innocence and guilt, lies within the accuser or defender’s rhetoric. To accurately convey a case I must employ syntax and diction with great caution and skill.For example, I can use diction when persuading the reader that my point is correct. If a person or institution is guilty, I can lace the text with the word “guilty”.

Overall, Addario is an outstanding author, both with the camera and the pen. She is a perfect picture to base my own art off of.

RCL #2- If a Picture is Worth a Thousand Words, What is a Photographer Worth?

Lynsey Addario passionately follows the spirit of photography wherever it may take her. In her book, she dictates the story of a missed chance at love, not to throw a pity-party, but to emphasize a life not lived. This story, her Nana’s story, portrays the bane of human existence:

What is the point?

Lynsey ponders this question as she discovers her life at a crossroads. Should she settle down with Uxval or follow her true love of photography? Obviously, after the contemplation of her Nana’s story, Lynsey chose love.

A love that cannot be satisfied by another person, but can be tamed only by the persual of an intangible passion.

Everyone should strive to find such a spirit of perseverance and adoration of one thing. Life itself can’t and shouldn’t be devoid of purpose. Without purpose, life is not lived to the utmost. Albeit, this is, and always will be, the greatest quandary of humankind.

Now, what type of earth-shattering event did I experience to enliven my life with the exhalation of law? Perhaps my love of history. My fondness towards the subject was fostered throughout my academic life, and to pinpoint any event as the catalyst would exclude the plethora of people that inspired me.

This is not to say I do not have any muses. I would propose that my grandfather, Jose Antonio Hernandez, is the closest thing to it. His life has occurred in various places while experiencing a number of historical events. His life is a history book. Taking place in Harlem, the Bronx, Washington D.C., Europe, and Puerto Rico, his story is an endearing testimony to history. His stories during my childhood inspired a historical fascination, an obsession that transformed into a love for law and justice.

Addario’s passion is photography, her tool a camera. My passion is justice, my tool a scale.

RCL #1- It’s What Nebraska Does

The old adage states that money makes the world go round.

The new adage states that passion makes the world go round.

Alright, I made the second adage up, but that does not make it any less true. Without passion, money is quite useless. Money can’t buy happiness, but passion can lead to happiness. In pondering what makes me happy, it is pertinent to examine my passions, which there are many of.

My greatest passion lies within my adoration of justice. Since middle school I have enjoyed any and all constitutional discussion. Whether it be about judicial review or original intent, I have an opinion on it. Nothing is more important to the civic life of mankind than its ability to ensure justice for all.

My other great passion is for Netflix. Albeit, I would never write a blog on it; perhaps because Netflix is a topic of lackluster discussion in our daily lives already.

Probably more important than a video-streaming site, my other passion is about Latino issues. Why? Maybe because the last name Hernandez does not escape political discourse. During this modern time, in which we are all civilized and mature people, Latinos are often portrayed negatively in the media. And the biggest Latino issue of our day: Despacito. It was cool before Justin Bieber “sang it”.

Alright, more seriously speaking, my first pitch for a blog is the idea of misjudged Supreme Court cases. It deals with justice, which brings me great happiness. Also, there are numerous court cases in which the Court ruled poorly on. Another pitch for a blog is a discussion on Latinos. We have enormous contributions to society and culture; however, most of it goes unnoticed (unless it is about tacos, which not all Latinos eat).

In the end, passions are passions no matter how small, odd, or mainstream. My hope is to shine a light on more obscure topics that my readers may not have exposure to.

 

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