Hi all, This week you need to respond to the poem,"No Man is an Island." It might help to do some research on the poet and the poem. Of course Wikipedia is a good starting point. Between now and next week you need to write about 300 words in total. Firstly write a PERSONAL RESPONSE to the message of the poem (200 words). The you need to RESPOND to someone else's post (100 words). Please ensure when you sign up that you use your own name so I can check all the posts against the roll. Enjoy!
No Man is an Island, by John Donne, I believe is a poem about society and communication. The first line of the poem refers a man to an island, stating that no man is ever isolated or separated by others. “Entire of itself. Each is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.” These few phrases are describing how any man cannot be referred to as an ‘island,’ all alone, however we are all tiny parts of a large island connected together. The poem is saying that we are all part of something bigger, as a society and as a community; we are all connected as civilization. The next few lines of the poem I believe, is reciting that if a little ‘clod’ is washed away, or if a sole man disappears, then the whole continent of men is less, it’s missing something. John Donne says that “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind.” I think what he is saying is that we are all responsible for each other, and that without other people, we are nothing, there is nothing to live for. He is describing how we as humans are all connected to each other, and once the “bell tolls,” ringing of another man’s death, it is not ringing for the individual, but that it rings for everyone.
John Donne’s quote, “No man is an island” suggests that no one is isolated from another and we are all interconnected. This I agree with. I believe that even if an individual is the last man on earth or simply feels that they are an “island”, that they aren’t. We cannot escape the fact that we have a connection to who gave birth to us, our ancestors and what we are simply a part of, be it a tree that we planted on our own motive. With each motive, I believe we engrave a part of who we are into it resembling each individual for who they are or aspire to be, thus connecting us to something outside of ourselves. Donne’s quote “each man’s death diminishes me” is one I don’t entirely agree with because if I think about the fact that people I don’t know at all in the slightest or feel connected to die every day, I don’t feel diminished. However, the simple thought of that fact does bring sadness no matter how small which leads to my thought on a better word being “changes me”. When Donne quotes “for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” he is making reference to death and how it affects an individual, which links to “each man’s death diminishes me”. At the age of 4 his father died (1576) and then one year later his mother died, followed by his two sisters in 1581. Then, when married to Anne More, after 16 years and 12 children, she died (1617) and he never remarried. Perhaps these experiences were an influence on his writing of the poem.
No man is an island, I believe John Donne’s poem is about being isolated from another person, while we all live in a community together we should be treated exactly the same as everyone else in society no matter what race, religion, gender, cultural heritage, beliefs and values they share. Everyone is different, having different views, or sharing a similar opinion to each other, as humans we are connected in this world through communication and social interactions. No one is right or wrong to have his or her own opinions about something, everyone deserves to have a say in what they belief. By coming together as a community and helping others when they are in need everyone is connected to someone who they can rely on when the going gets tough, making someone feel like they aren‘t lone. In my opinion to Donne’s poem, “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind involves the connection of death affecting everyone differently which impacts the society at different levels. Affecting every one of us together, by the connection we share.
No man is an island; this poem was written by John Donne and has been interpreted in many different ways. I think this is a poem about death and that no man is alone, there is always somebody there for you. The lines "no man is an island, entire of itself" I think means that no man is alone. There is always somebody else in your life, no matter how much you believe you can shut everybody out of your life it can never happen. "Each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main" backs up the point that nobody is alone and you are part of a community. "Each man's death diminishes me, for I am involved in mankind." This is talking about death and that for every person you've ever known if they were to die that would impact you and slowly make you feel that you have nothing to live for, which is where the "No man is an island" line comes in. "Therefore, send not to know For whom the bell tolls, It tolls for thee." I believe this is saying don’t go trying to take your own life away, you still have allot to live for, also that when your time is up that god will take us all one way or another. if you take your own life all your saying is that you couldn't handle it and it will impact all the people around you hugely.
Nobody can take away who you really are, and where you've came from. What really counts is what's inside of you which defines us from being a good or bad person. No one is perfect, but we are all connected to each other.
Everybody should be regarded equal in life. We were all born into this world not knowing how we would turn out and we did not have control over this. To treat anyone differently would be wrong, as they nor we could have control over how they would turn out. The reality of death can be daunting to many, but with the support of family and a community beside you, the task of rebuilding after a tragic death would be made a little easier.
No mans an island’, John Donne is expressing that people are not exactly like islands but are connected to the people they interact with and associate themselves with.To not be connected to anyone is virtually impossible because from the moment you are born you are already connected to your family as you grow older you meet new people and have new friends which associate you and connect you to them. A man is always going to be connected to people. There are many ways which a man can become connected, we are all connected when we go to school,work in a sports team and religon. I agree with Johns idea the a man can not become an island because to we are associated with everything we do within the social world and to be completely isolated from the world is impossible with the modern technology we have and the amount of people with interact with without knowing it.
“No man is an island” A poem written by John Donne, I think is about how no person should feel lonely or isolated from the real world. In the first sentence it is said that “No man is an island” I personally think that this is true. No matter where you are from, you are born into a family and with a family a community is established. No one should have to feel lonely and when in need there are many shoulders to turn too. “Each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main”, I believe means that everyone is apart of the world no matter what race, religion, disease or disability that they might have. “Each man's death diminishes me, for I am involved in mankind”. I think means that no death will go unnoticed and that each time a tragic death occurs there will be someone there to guide and help you through the rough times. This proves the fact that “No man is an island” and support is always there. “For whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” he is saying that every death affects a family and a community which re establishes his point that “Each man's death diminishes me”. It is impossible not to be connected to anyone in the real world, and the death of anyone can affect a vas majority of people and in Mr. Donne’s case it was his family.
Thats an interesting view Mitch but in reponse to your post I don't entirely agree with what you said on everyone being treated equally and how we don't have control on how we are going to turn out. I'l use Carl Williams (guy that Underbelly was based around) as an example. He made the choices to kill people and become involved with criminals and scandal. He had control over what he was doing. This leads to your belief on everyone being treated equally. Do you think someone like Carl Williams should be treated the same as everyone else? xx =)
Thats a fair point you make there david.But i was more reffering to indivduals that might suffer from a disability or an inpairment, that no one should treat these people or even look at them differntly.
John Donne’s poem “No Man Is An Island” explores the theme of ones dependence on others, and resolves that we all need each other in some way or another, and with each person who passes on we lose some of our own human existence. The whole idea that we need one another is seen in everyday life; as the design of our society enables us to purchase goods and services with money, which then, in turn, allows the seller of the good or service to purchase their own things to survive. All of the intricate relationships formed in this process can, in a strange and small way, fill details into our own lives even when we don’t notice.
Take, for example, a café that you enjoy going to. You go in there semi-regularly. You don’t necessarily have to be best friends with the manager, but you know him or her. You expect the same service and atmosphere every time you enter. The pictures on the wall, the lovely waiter or waitress’s cheery smiles, and the light hum of the tracks playing from their built-in music system.
Now imagine the same place, however the manager has packed up and left. Now, on the surface, it seems like the same place. But go inside, and the café has a slight different feel to it, the pictures have changed, the cheery smiles, although still cheery, are slightly out of place in the seemingly familiar backdrop.
Everyone who has even the slightest connection to our own lives, everyone who interacts with you, helps to shape our lives. No man is an island. In fact, like John Donne writes, we are all “a piece of the continent, a part of the main,” all working towards a brighter future for all of us. As is part of the human condition, we all need contact with others, even those who do not think they do. To have no interaction is to not be completely human.
John Donne's poem titled "no man is an island" i think is a poem can mean very different things. One of which being about people in the world connecting. No one in the world should be alone, everyone in the world has someone to go to when they need to interact or just talk. We as human beings love to interact, laugh and play which is what most of us do to connect as we are all humans. "Each man's death diminishes me" i think this backs up that we are all connected for example when someone dies in a family more than one person is effected by this. Just by say "No man is an island" i think defines its self because it is right no one is or should be alone because Human beings do not thrive when isolated from others . We as mankind thrive by communicating and we are all equal no one is better than anyone because we are all human beings. I think the last two lines "For whom the bell tolls It tolls for thee" has something to do with dying as in when you die that's it so we should be grateful for what we have and live out lives.
"No Man Is an Island" - Matter of belonging and identity I believe the poem by John Donne is true and people cannot depend entirely by themselves. John Donne makes a comparison with islands and people. An island may seem separate from other lands but however it is connected; it is just separated by water. People depend on others to live, for example Will Freeman depended on his father's money to live his luxuriant lifestyle. Another example is when people say their independent when they are really not, for example they have a job and earn money; however the money is from their boss/manager and they rely on customers buying their goods or product. As you can see everyone relies on someone. Even animals depend on others to live for, such as the food chain. In John Donne's poem he writes that once someone has died part of them dies; he contrasts this with an example if a bit of Europe is washed away, Europe will not be the same. If you think about it no human being can live entirely by themselves. They physically couldn't, for example no human being by themselves can grow food, make food, make medicine, make clothes, make technology etc. That is why people in the world share all these responsibilities. Humans also need to communicate with one another otherwise they would get lonely. Therefore no one can live entirely by themselves and no man is an island.
the poem titled 'no man is an island' written by John Donne, is about how we as humans are all connected. John Donne expresses that when you feel alone like there is no one there, there is always somebody to give you a pick me up. we as human beings were put on this earth to confide with each other, love each other and make relationships with each other. the idea of a man is an island isn't possible, each and every person has a family, friends, work colleagues and people that we bump into on the street. a man or a woman may be independent but the human condition says different, a man may be an island but connected to land beneath the deep blue.
An archipelago is a cluster of islands that is formed tectonically. The blog title relates to the poem "No Man is an Island" by John Donne. This means that no-one is by themselves, that they are not an island surrounded by water but an archipelago of people around them. What would you prefer? Being by yourself in the middle of no-where with no-one to speak to, or having people around to talk to you? To help you out when you struggle, and also times when they are there to make you smile. The poem reflects that everyone is connected one way to another. That even the slightest thing, (be it the war in Iraq how many Australian soldiers have died) not even having to know that person makes us feel sorry for them; it makes us feel lessened than we originally were. How do you solve a puzzle with pieces missing? Mankind would not survive by solely relying on ourselves, and John Donne demonstrates this in this poem.
i like what David said. I agree how he said we are connected with everything family friends ancestors everyone is connected in many different ways. I also like how you said when Donne says “for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” is a reference to death that makes sense
I know what you mean Rhys. I used to (this is going to sound really bad) work at Oporto. I found myself as being a pretty good employee, where there would be regular customers who would come and usually order the same things; with a smile present on their face. And it seems that after I had left, a few of the regulars that I would serve didn't go there anymore. It's just like you said. Even having the slightest connection helps shape our lives. Because it was those regulars that actually made my work better than it normally was (well, basically I could be like a psychic and guess what meal they are having, seeing as they would order the same thing and I could get free food). Anyway, even customers who didn't come regularly were still (most of the time) friendly and just leaving a smile on someones face (from my incredible customer service) when they walked away made me happy.
‘No Man is an Island’, is a metaphor pleading, no one is alone. That we as human beings are a dependent race that relies on one another for love and support. This poem looks at the bigger picture, whether we are of different race, colour or culture we are all connected as we are human. However, challenging this quote I believe that everyone must be an island at various stages throughout life. We as humans need to develop ourselves and learn from life and the challenges it throws at us. We cannot be dependent on others to survive. Sure, we can seek guidance when it is needed but for some obstacles, we need to feel as though we are alone to conquer them. It is only through the darkest times that we learn to appreciate things with more sincerity and a new founded respect that is only obtained through a struggle. See, by being spoon fed our whole lives, how are we to develop ourselves as individuals? I’m not saying that Donne’s quote is wrong, but I am questioning the fact that men and women may at some stage in life accept to be alone.
I agree with the point you are making, how we all have someone there for us, no matter how hard we may try to fight it. However, your final point on the last few lines of Donne’s poem I feel differently about. I believe he is trying to point out that as people die, you too slowly lose what it means to be human, which is strengthening his point in a previous line, when he states that “Each man's death diminishes me.” This is just my own interpretation of it, and does not make it “right” by any means.
'No man is an island' By John Donne. This poem refers to how nobody is,(or should be) surrounded by nothing. That everyone should have someone or something there at all times. This poem is about how people are always in one way or another connected by the big picture of society. The way somebody acts will impact another. Man should constantly have a connection. I believe this is true. We cannot escape the fact that society relies on one another to get by with everyday life. If someone is to be "washed away", then a piece of one or more connections will be lessened. This poem takes a step back when thinking about life and draws in the bigger picture of how people get on with their lives. Teachers teaching on their students, students going home to their parents, parents coming home from work. The pieces of the bigger puzzle all interrelate. To say that someone is an island is an exaggeration on their current social status. When John uses the word island, i think of a small place that has been cut off from the world and it's workings. Nobody is in this position.
James, I like how you relate the poem to the war in Iraq, because of how delicate that situation is. It really made me think of how clearly someone who i have absolutely no connection with other than country of origin, makes me feel like i am sort-of part of that war, even though i'm not there. You made your point of if everyone was independent very clear. "how do you solve a puzzle with missing pieces?" I think you've hit the nail on the head.
“No man is an island” is a metaphorical reference that no one is alone. I believe that John Donne is saying that we cannot live in isolation from others. In saying so, I believe that this refers to not being able to live happily. Just think about it for a moment. Erase all your friends and family from your life and try living alone. I don’t think many people today would last very long. This further proves my point that if we were to live alone, it wouldn’t be a happy time. Take Will Freeman for example. He believed that he lived a pleasant and happy life, until Marcus came into his life. Will found people he could connect with on a certain level. Or even more importantly, people who he could be with. This left Will with a new and different perspective on life and I’m sure he enjoyed it a lot more than being alone.
An archipelago is a chain or cluster of islands that is formed tectonically. The context of this blog and the poem both demonstrate that we are all connected or part of a community. I also believe that our lives would lack meaning if it weren’t for the interaction with other people in society, with friends and family. It almost leads your thinking towards what would we have to live for?
I agree with David’s concern about Mitch’s comment - 'everyone having to be treated equally.' I understand that you were referring to something else, but with that statement I would like to add: John Donne says that “Each man’s death diminishes me.” I do not believe that a death of someone like Hitler for example could diminish me. Nor would I be diminished by any other tyrant like him. They are referred to as "clogs" in the poem and I believe they are just that. There is no reason to feel diminished by someone if they didn’t have a good image in society or positive impact on your life. The reference in the poem should be a little more specific in saying who’s death we would be diminished by, for example a family member, friend or maybe even an idol of ours.
The poem "no man is an island" by John Donne I think it means that no one stands alone when you think you need to be alone. Most people will always have friends or family to stick with you in times that you may think that need to be alone, even if they just wait for you to come good again. The word ‘island’ is referring to a man being stranded on an island surrounded by water with no other human contact apart from themselves, although the line “each man diminishes me” means that if someone leaves your life you will feel a loss, no matter how close they were to you, you may never get that part of you back to normal again, this also ties in with the line “For whom the bell tolls”. The line “for I am involved in mankind” means that although people may not realise it, people need others to make the feel happy with who they are, and also to feel accepted in society. I will use school as an example, at school everyone’s wears the same uniform, and listen to the same bell. Only when someone is called over the loudspeakers then so people start getting singled out.
No man is an island, this poem written by John Donne illustrates the fact that no man is alone. I think the poem is about the struggle man faces by himself but by co-operating with others and forming groups, communities and friendships man can pogress over adversity and and come out on top. Think of the world as a machine each person being an unique part of that machine, alone they can achieve little but together they form a machine that can achieve anything. The poem also talks about death and how with the loss of people europe is the lesser, this I belive means that as people pass on the machine formed by them becomes less functioning and eventually useless, this is never to happen though for the reason of rebirth the replacement of each unique person with another is a part of nature. When we die whether or not we come back, I don't know if there is some greater power that has a plan for human kind who knows such knowledge is beyond us, what I do know is that by ourselves we are nothing together we form something great and powerful. History remembers men for the deeds they have done with others not for the single events commited by themselves. When the poem describes being involved in mankind it gives the feeling that any action taken by any person somewhere in the world impacts someone else in the world (Newtons Third law “To every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction: or the forces of two bodies on each other are always equal and are directed in opposite directions)”. No man can survive by themselves they need the support and structure given to them by the people around them.
A quote I heard once was “The only reason we die is because we’ve accepted death as an inevitability” , something to thing about when reading a poem like this.
"No man is an islad" is a metaphor alleging that we as humans, are not alone, even when you may think you are. John Donne says "every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main", which implies that all human beings are connected, no matter of your race or culture. Humans will rely on other humans for support and love, we will depend on one another. I feel this quote makes a good point, alothough I think there were all ways be a time when someone is alone, or feels alone. But I think this is what the poem is saying. Although you may always feel alone at some stages in your life, there is always someone there, even if you may not know it. Wheteher it be your friends, family, teachers etc. Yet sometimes, it's a matter of learning how to cope when you may think your alone. Yes, you can depend on other people to help you out, but at the end of the day, it's really up to you. What use is it when your older and depending on other people your whole life?
I believe that the poem "No man is an island" by John Donne is about individuals' dependence and how they become to connect to each other.
The phrase 'Each is a piece of the continent, A part of the main' suggests how no matter how much an individual may feel that they are alone, they are, in a way which may not be clear, connected to another. At first an 'island' may seem all on its own, isolated from the rest of world, but as you explore deep down into the ocean, you will discover that it is in fact connected to a larger block of land, as John Donne suggests. This proves that even though a man, for example Will Freeman from 'About a Boy' may believe he is an 'island', he is fact connected to something larger, somewhere he has the right to belong to.
By belonging to a group develops connection between individuals, and this connection can lead to their dependence on each other. Different people can have different levels of dependence on others. For example an infant will have full dependence on their parents whereas an adult would rely in themselves more than others. This suggests that although people may think they do not need others to survive, unnoticeably they are connected to others, therefore relying on them.
Lastly, I find the phrase 'Each man's death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind' is the most interesting and beautiful phrase in the poem. as individuals are connected to each other, they become a part of each others' lives. No matter how big or small this part may be, if that part disappears, or when a person 'dies' in this case, you do lose a part of yourself, and you are no longer completely what you used to be. this can be taken negatively or positively, but I believe this is a positive approach, since it shows the importance of connection you have with other people.
'No man is an island', an excerpt taken from 'Meditation XVII', was written by John Donne in 1624. I believe that when Donne wrote this, he was trying to express his belief that human beings cannot further progress in life without human interaction.
When Donne says, 'each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main', he suggests that every person (each) is a part of a community (continent), that is linked to other communities, (making up the 'main'). Without others, we would not get any assistance when we are in need, and it would be every man for himself. Charities wouldn’t exist and the situation in Africa would be much worse than it is now.
By saying, 'Each man's death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind', Donne is saying that a person's death affects and weakens us all because we are humans. A chain is the perfect metaphor for this poem; a chain is as strong as its weakest link, so each link making up the chain is equally important. If this wasn’t true, a person’s death would simply be accepted and that would be that. Instead, after a person’s death, we grieve, remember and celebrate their life at a funeral service and we may not get over it for a while.
Utah, I like the way you gave an example of the machine as our world. It really gives a great example of how humans do need people around to be able to achieve much greater and powerful things. Working together as part of a group we are able to accomplish much more, than working on something ourselves.
Dear Danny, I liked your post a lot because it was smart and it made sense, and I agree with it. I think it was really smart how you talked about charities and poverty in Africa at the moment, because you're putting the term 'no man is an island' into todays terms which can make everyone familiar with the situation more personally. Also, the whole 'chain' metaphor was also really smart because it explains how humans are connected and how 'each chain is equally important.' :)
I believe that the poem " No man is an island" written by John Donne is simply saying that no one is alone. Everybody is somehow connected in some way, no matter who you are. In the poem John says "every man is a piece of the continent" implying that everyone belongs somewhere and is never isolated like an "island" like is may seem sometimes. People will always rely and depend on others for support and help when they feel alone.
David questioned whether people like Carl Williams deserve to be treated equally, like everybody else. If we don't apply the same standards of fairness to all what happens to us? Isn't it bad for your "soul" or "spirit" to treat people differently or unfairly. If you apply the same standards to all then you are a better person....Have a good holiday David.
"No Man is an Island" refers to that no person can be cut off from society. I believe that no man can be an island for their entire life. People can manage to live lonely and think that they are living a good life. I believe that we are all connected by our responsibility to help others; however through life we can avoid the confrontation by not facing the responsibility. John Donne wrote about everyone in the community being connected in one way or another. He used the example, “If a clod be washed away by the sea. Europe is the less. As well as if a promontory were”. This refers to everybody being equal in society and not judging who is more or less. He also writes “For whom the bell tolls, It tolls for thee” and this suggests that the community is connected through the church bell to let the public know that someone has died. But in this modern age, we aren’t just connected in a local community; we are also connected through an international community through the internet. I believe that no person can live in isolation from others for too long because we need love and a sense of belonging.
hey everyone, i like danny's post the best! i agree with what danny is explaining as it was along the same lines as what i was trying to explain. i like how you could express donnes feelings in a modern text rather than the language of 600 years ago! nice work danny.
"No man is an island" is a poem written by John Donne in the year 1624. I believe what Donne is trying to express through his poem is that no matter how alone or separated an individual may feel, they're never truly alone, as someone, somewhere out there is going through the same issue or problem.
The lines "Each is a piece of the continent" and "A part of the main" could refer to the fact that we're all a part of something, whether it's a family, school, where you work or your community. This again, reinforces the fact that “no man is an island”. Interaction between other beings is what makes up a large part of who we are. How would someone act if they were completely isolated from all of mankind, technology and animals? The connection people have with each other in this day and age is what has got us to where we are now, without great minds being put together, how could the technology and environment we live in today exist and continue to develop?
Towards the end of the poem, Donne says “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind”. To me this line is saying that we are affected by other’s actions or what happens to them. If you lose someone you are connected to, someone you see or have something to do with regularly, it affects you emotionally and in most cases is something that can never be entirely fixed. When you lose a loved one, you lose a part of yourself, because everyone influences each other. Maybe when someone or something is lost and can’t be replaced we do become that little bit closer to being an island our self.
Apparently my comment just disappears after I post. Better not have posted twice now :|
The title; ‘No man is an island’, written by John Donne, significantly highlights the fact that no man is alone, that there is always someone else whether they know it or not. This also signifies that we are highly dependant on those around us, and for the world to function we need connection which we are immediately granted at birth. I agree that in most aspects that no man is an island simply because we are brought into the world with many people around us who help us grow, but at times we can all feel alone. I think that some can choose to be an island at some stages in life because it may be the only way to learn. I also believe that John Donne is explaining that no man can act like an island, for all actions will affect those around us, and that the world just doesn’t revolve around one person. The title of this blog; “archipelago,” simply means a chain and cluster of islands, although they are islands, they are still surrounded by others. I believe that the cluster is the community and the chain is our connection.
Good work 11H! It was great to read your responses but don't forget you need to post once, read the posts of others and comment. We'll be discussing some of the comments made in class. Next week there wil be a video short to respond to.
Trent, i believe that your post was very good because it broke down the topic well. You gave your opinion and provided examples to back it up. You also analysed the blog title "archipelago" which not many people did. :)
i liked dannys response because he makes alot of sense and uses really good examples. got lost in Jesses response and not quite sure were Trent got his response from.
I liked Tents post, I agree with the idea that there is always someone around us weather we know it or not, I think that is very true. Some can choose to be an island at some stages in life because it may be the only way to learn, this I disagree with. I think the only way you can be an island at some stages I your life is through your own arrogance and stubbornness.
um... I'm just assuming we post here for the second task too; if this isn't the case, I'll repost later :P
The snippet of the movie “Powder” explores the idea of everyone feeling disconnected and detached from one another, but in reality we are all part of a greater force; of humanity.
I agree with this notion that we, at some point in our lives, feel isolated. We are all individuals, and yet part of a collective at the same time. Our thoughts and actions are made entirely by ourselves, and although we may be influenced by others (through peer pressure and the like), we are held responsible for our own actions as individuals. We do not think as a group, we think as ourselves. It’s basic human nature to think of ourselves first. In fact, it’s a rule of nature. Survival of the fittest.
In a way, I also agree that we are all part of everything. Our actions, however small, affect those around us. One’s decision to take the car to work will mean that in the traffic, the person behind you is slightly later than what they would have been had you not taken the same way to work. In this fashion, we are all part of a huge, living organism that is humanity. We are all one sole piece, but we are part of a greater puzzle.
Rhys, congrats on the first post! When the lead character walks through the crowd clearly everyone is looking at him. You get the feeling that they are judgemental...thinking as a group.It seems that if you are different you are suspect.Others see you as some kind of threat.
TASK #2 The clip from the movie “powder” explores the idea that everyone at some stage in there life will experience the feeling of being different.
“You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” I think is a true statement. We are all individuals and it is up to us to make decisions for ourselves. Some of these decisions may influence or involve others, we may also be influenced by others to make the wrong decisions. Our actions can have affects on others. An example of this was when I went to a TAC alcohol driving awareness seminar, where is was demonstrated that by getting in a car under the influence killing the driver and passengers doesn’t just affect both families it also affects both communities.
Jeremy in the short clip is looked at differently because of his looks and the way he comes across, but deep down he is still the same as everyone else. Everyone should feel like they belong and that they are accepted in society, even though they may look different. Everyone should have the satisfaction to say that they belong.
‘Powder – you’re part of absolutely everyone and everything,’ is talking about how although people may feel isolated and different to everyone else, we are all the same in the end. We all live on the same earth, breathe the same air and walk the same path. Humans all feel the same emotions, have the same purposes, and are all connected in that way. In some way I do agree that we are part of absolutely everyone and everything as even if we may not know it, we are affecting something. By walking down the street we may step on a flower or knock over an ant hill, and affect them without even noticing. We may do something as simple as give a homeless person a couple dollars, and that may pay for their dinner that night, therefore we are becoming a part of them and their gratitude. At the beginning of the clip, Jeremy is stared at by passersby at the carnival because he is considered to be ‘different’ for his appearance. They do not understand that he is the same as all of them, even though he may look slightly different on the outside. However, this does not affect Jeremy in any way as he knows that he is the same as everyone else, and he believes that we are all connected to each other. He tells his friend that “Inside most people there’s a feeling of being separate from everything – and they’re not.” This shows his open mind and open heart and his hopeful message that we are not alone.
I think rhys' comment was really interesting because he talked about feeling isolated and alone as well as being a part of everything. I think that how he mentioned survival of the fittest and how its our basic instinct to think of ourselves first was really smart and it got me thinking about a whole different message the movie clip may have been trying to send across. I really like rhys' blog. :)
Text #2 - Powder The video clip 'Powder' explores the idea about people feeling different and separate from others.
I agree with that idea and how people at one stage of their life they will feel separated by others and people around us. We may feel isolated and separated by others because of our actions, looks and feelings. In the beginning of the film Jeremy is walking through the carnival and everyone was looking at him because he looked differently, people judged him on his appearance. People shouldn’t “judge a book by its cover”, people there didn’t realise that they were somehow connected to Jeremy he then explains, “Inside people there’s a feeling of being separated, separated from everything", "...and they’re not, they're part of absolutely everyone and everything" - I believe this quote is true and that you are never alone even though you may feel it in the inside but in reality and on the outside your not. We are all connected through one and another, we all share something; we all are human. Deep down we’re all are the same. People don’t think about this as people don’t consider other people’s feelings before they judge others because of their appearance or they way the behave. Jeremy is one of the few people who don’t care what others think as he knows he’s somewhat the same as others and somewhat connected.
I believe that the message of the scene from the movie “Powder” is about the way people isolate and alienate other people from society. At the same time though, the message of everyone being part of the same community and being connected is conveyed.
At the beginning of the clip, everybody stares at Jeremy because they see him differently. This shows that the majority attitude of the community was to disregard people who were classified as different. A community which seems to act in line with each other. But I believe that we as individuals are responsible for our own actions in society with our strongest influence coming from family. In saying so, I disagree that everyone can act in line with other people because we are all different.
Jeremy says that most of the people in the community have a feeling of being separate, and separate from everything; alone or isolated. He disagrees with this by saying ‘They are part of absolutely everyone, and everything.’ I agree with his original statement in saying that we are separate. At some stage in everyone’s lives people are going to feel alone because no one else is going to be able to understand their situation. In reference to his second statement about everyone being part of everyone and everything, I agree with it to an extent. We are part of a large community as a whole and our actions can have affects on other people in the community. (I would like to further continue my point in my second post in reference to a comment Rhys had made.)
Jeremy also states that people live behind lies, sarcasms, deceptions and exaggerations to confuse the truth. My interpretation of this is that people prefer to live in denial, or they are afraid of the truth and are too scared to stand up to it. To live open minded like Jeremy I believe is the best way. You are able to make decisions for yourself and know the difference between the truth and what is a lie.
Rhys used the example of someone taking a car to work affecting the person behind them that they are going to be late. I don’t completely agree that this is how a ‘living organism’ (as Rhys described it) would operate. I lean more towards the idea of pollution and the way we affect the environment as a better example of how we affect society as a whole. In my opinion this demonstrates the idea of us being part of everything and everyone because we will be affecting the society as a whole not just an individual in the community. For a ‘living organism’ to operate I would suggest the idea of having a domino effect; an action of someone continues to affect more and more people leading to it being the effect on the society as a whole.
'Powder'. This video clip explores not only how people are connected, but how they can be negatively attached to others in society. Being connected to someone or something does not always mean good. In this case, Jeremy is judged solely on his looks rather than his personality, excluding him from what the majority of society believes is ok, and yet they are still tied together. When Jeremy sits down to talk, he explains how the whole world is touched by one another's actions and thoughts. "Inside most people there’s a feeling of being separate, separated from everything" I believe that Jeremy is spot-on here. That the feeling of loneliness is feared by everyone, even though at times they may be surrounded by people. The feeling of being separate plays on people's minds making them do things they wouldn't normally do, it's at these moments we connect with others we wouldn't normally interact with. People need to look beyond the "spot" of disconnection to feel like they are part of the bigger picture. To be one of those people, who look beyond what people think or care, is a piece of the puzzle that’s makes up that feeling of being attached to someone.
I totally agree with you Diana, the fact that even if it's a negative impact on say a flower or an ant hill, we are still interacting with it. How Jeremy comes across differently on the outside but is the same underneath is a good example of how people interact differently to their, (or society's) belief of what is normal. I like how you draw on his message of not being alone with a simple view point on what other people think. I really liked your viewpoint on the video Diana.
I believe that the short video 'You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything' from the film 'Powder' explores the theme of how people isolate themselves and others, while still being connected unknowingly.
Although people may feel isolated, and at times, isolate themselves, it is a completely different matter from being disconnected. At the start of the video when Jeremy is walking through the crowd at the carnival, he seems isolated since everyone is staring at him for his 'different' appearance. But by the onlookers recognising Jeremy's existence, they are interacting and connecting with him, even though it may be in a negative way. It may be uncomfortable for strangers to look at you differently, but wouldn't you feel more isolated and actually disconnected if absolutely no one even turned their head to look at you or had no realisation you were there?
Also, Jeremy talks about how most people have a 'spot' in their mind, which doesn't let them think past the point of isolation or disconnection. Jeremy believes that he can look past this 'spot', therefore he is not afraid when others look at him differently, because he knows he is still connected, in one way or the other.
I do believe that we are a part of 'absolutely everyone and everything' because we contribute as a part to someone we know, and they are part of someone else, which connects all of us to something bigger, mankind.
The clip from 'Powder' explores the belief that people are connected to everything around them, whether they can see it or not. Jeremy talks about how, on the inside, people think that they are separate, but really, they’re not. He continues to say that ‘they’re a part of absolutely everyone. And everything.’
The idea that we are all connected to everything may seem hard to believe, as is shown by Lindsey, who questions the notion by sarcastically asking Jeremy if she’s connected to ‘this tree?’ or ‘some fisherman in Italy on some ocean I’ve never even heard of?’ but I believe that it has some truth to it. Jeremy, in the first part of the clip, is being stared at by other people whilst simply walking through a fair. He is linked to every single person looking. These ties aren’t necessarily positive, but they are ties nonetheless. Lindsey’s inability to see these connections is attributed to ‘the spot’, as is it called by Jeremy.
If we weren’t connected to everyone, and everything, we wouldn’t be on this earth. Take the human body as an example. Your fingers aren’t directly connected to your toes, but if you look, they are. Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. The same goes for humans and the earth. We communicate with others, who have contact with even more people, etc. The ‘six degrees of separation’ theory states that everyone is, at most, six steps away from any other person on Earth, through a friend of a friend of a friend. This may seem to be fabricated, but in an age of facebook and twitter, it may be truer than ever.
Diana summed it up great, saying that ‘even if we may not know it, we are affecting something’. The part about the homeless person and how a simple donation can link us to that person puts a new perspective on things and make you realise the effect you, and everyone else, can have on someone
Task# 2 “POWDER” In response to the film clip “Powder”, the clip explores the idea that no man is separated from everything, everyone is connected to each other, or something around them. In the clip Jeremy states, “ You're part of absolutely everyone and everything.” I agree with the statement because as individuals we aren't isolated, we are able to decide the best possible decision, which are passed down from our peers, the way we are brought up and family values. Even though it might not be the right decision, by the end we learn by our past mistakes, so the same mistakes aren't repeated over and over again. We are connected to each other, even though at times we may feel like we don't exactly belong in our society.
When Jeremy walks through the crowd of people in the carnival, people are staring at him because of his different appearance to everyone else. He describes to his friend that he's not scared of what other people might think of him. He goes on to say that the connection between people can't be broken, everyone should feel like we all belong and there shouldn't be a need to hide from anything. No matter who we are, or where we have come from nothing should separate us from anything. The connection between people can never be broken, by lies, sarcasm, and exaggeration. It's what's inside of a person that really counts, not what's outside. We as humans should never be judgemental about anyone else's appearance, because just think, if you were in that same position would you like someone staring at you while you walk past because you were different from the rest?
In the short clip of powder. I think Jeremy is referring to the fact that no matter what people say that everyone is connected. You see people walking around everyday and you may not realize it but each person has a connection with everyone else. I think when Jeremy says "inside most people there is a feeling of being separate, separate from everything" he is referring to people that isolate themselves from society because people that do that talk to absolutely no one and he is right, they are part of absolutely everyone no matter what it be, friends family, pets whatever it may be we are all connected. Jeremy is correct is saying we are apart of "everyone and everything", it explores the fact that we are never alone you always have someone!
Danny i really agree with how u said at the start of the clip when everyone is looking at Jeremy even though there no giving him a positive look. Also when you mention the part about the human body this is also true "Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. This sums is up perfectly because we as human beings all have these parts and therefore there must be some kind of connection
I agree with most of the points you make, however is being disconnected really that different from feeling isolated? When one feels isolated, they feel they are alone, and tend to feel disconnected with everyone around them.
By using (very helpful might I add), dictionary.com, I found a definition of disconnected:
- To withdraw into one's private world.
Then looking at isolated:
- Separated from other persons or things; alone; solitary.
The two terms are quite similar, and to say they are “completely different” is, in my opinion, rather strange.
Overall though, I rather enjoyed your response. :) Look forward to seeing you write more! :)
the short video 'powder' takes the idea of no man is an island, a poem written by John Donne and gives a more modern explanation of what john donne wrote about. as jeremy walks through the festival everybody looks at him negatively and treat him differently, jeremy doesn't take any notice and walks straight through. when jeremy sits down he states "inside most people there is a feeling of being separate, separate from everything" this means that people feel like they are alone or isolated from the world when there is something wrong, all we need to wait for is somebody to bring us back to realise that we are all the same we all feel the same pain, love and hate for things in our world. all in all that is why jeremy believes we are all connected.
im going to respond to dannys post once again as he holds a strong point and argues this "Lindsey, who questions the notion by sarcastically asking Jeremy if she’s connected to ‘this tree?’ or ‘some fisherman in Italy on some ocean I’ve never even heard of?" this is a strong point as jeremy states we are conected to everything and everyone. good work danny!
The video clip entitled “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” taken from the movie “Powder” explores the concept of how individuals can feel separate and isolated from everyone else, but in actual fact, Jeremy believes deep down they’re connected to everyone and everything that surrounds them.
In the beginning of the clip there is a scene where Jeremy is walking through a crowd of people staring at him, because he looks aesthetically different from them and whether or not they know it, he is mentally too. I believe this clip can show that more often than not, you don’t always necessarily separate yourself from others, but instead you’re actually excluded and driven away because of being an individual and having different beliefs and values.
Jeremy continues to say that there is no need to hide or lie and it’s possible to talk to someone without any lies, sarcasm, deception or exaggeration. To me this means we shouldn’t be ashamed of who we are and being an individual. Everyone is different in some way or another, whether it’s their beliefs, values or appearance. From watching this short video I get the idea that Jeremy isn’t afraid of who he is and being different, as no one should be. People should be able to accept others and like them for their unique qualities.
I agree with what Danny is saying about connections not always being a positive thing. Just because we’re connected, it doesn’t necessarily make it a positive thing and could perhaps be negative, for example, like I was saying earlier about how some people can exclude others. Often when someone is excluded from a group they will feel isolated and they are, as they’re singled out, but they are still connected in a negative way because often that group could proceed to bully and make fun of that person.
In response I believe Danny’s response was great. I also agree that we are all connected to everything, which may seem hard to believe. You sum up being connected to everyone as humans very well when you said. Take the human body as an example. Your fingers aren’t directly connected to your toes, but if you look, they are. Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. Never really thought of it this way, but a very good example as we are all connected within the body and also the world. GREAT WORK DANNY.
The video "powder" I think is a good example of how people belong and how society can make you feel unwanted. Even though Jeremy looks different and when everyone stares at him, it seems as though he is a bit of an outsider, he knows that he belongs, and that he is part of that community. He may look different to all the other people, but he is the same as everyone of them. I think it was really intelligent when he told the girl that she had this "spot....where your disconnected from everything" i think that was a message saying that even though everyone is different in their own way, they're still connected in someway. Belonging is a place where everyone wants to be and everyone has a right to feel accepted.
‘Powder: Your part of absolutely everyone and everything’.
The video clip from the scene, ‘Powder’ shows the cruelty society can have on an individual for looking, acting or dressing differently, when in actual fact the message it conveys is of positive significance; This being that everyone is connected to their community, their culture and their surroundings.
Every person is different, whether it is the way we dress or the choices we make. It’s these factors that make us individuals and seperate us from the people beside us. However, these people should not be judged for their display of individuality as though they may appear different to the rest of us, we all share one similarity and this is the emotion we express as human beings. Even though we are all different, we all feel emotion at the best and worst of times. It is this feeling of emotion that connectively binds us together, not as individuals but as a community.
It is like when a soldier dies serving his country. His family, friends and fellow officers aren’t the only people who feel the effects of his death. We as a nation grieve for this person and the ultimate sacrifice they have paid for our country. Though death is not somthing to be celebrated, it is something binding that allows us as humans to come together; to share our emotion and show that we are not that different from one another. ‘That we are apart of everyone and everything.’
Danny made a great point with his statement refering to the human body, and he is right. Whether we like it or not we are connected. we can choose to deny and even disregard it but at the end of the day we are all human, and this is something we all have in common.
Some really interesting points made guys. A couple in particular stay with me;the idea that pollution can be a metaphor for connection. Not all connectionis good. I read it at the sme time we were watching the film, "Into the wild" and the main character made the comment about "poisoned by civilization." Can civilization be toxic? And Jesse's observation about the binding nature of death and grief. I watched a doco on the phone calls of 9/11 last night. One of the relatives made the same point. That the nation was united in their personal grief.So connection can be both good and sad but either way it's there.
The video clip “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” from the movie “Powder” explores the idea that individuals can feel separate and isolated from society, however Jeremy believes they’re connected to everyone and everything that surrounds them and other people just cant see or believe that.
The setting at the start of the clip when Jeremy is walking through the crowd of people staring at him at a fair is critical. I think they have chosen this setting because a fair is usually a social place and they're all staring at Jeremy because he is different. When he sits down to talk to the other woman it proves that people can look into someone to see the good in them and we can all be connected to each other.
When he is talking to the woman he brings up the point that humans feel the need to hide lies, sarcasm, exaggeration and deception. i think this is true. We do feel the need to lie and hide behind deceptions but why, it only takes us further from the truth and can bite you in the bum when somebody else finds out the truth, and that we shouldn't be afraid to be ourselves.
I don’t agree with the thought that we are connected to absolutely everyone and everything. I think we are connected to people and things but absolutely everybody and everything is a bit of an exaggeration though. In the real scheme of things when you consider how many people are in the world we don’t actually know many people.
I think Jesse's post is very good and couldn't be much truer. I like the example he used about the soldiers death and how many people that effects. I think he's done a good job of understanding the meaning behind the film clip too.
In Response to Jesse's post i really like the way he gave the example of the soldiers who die serving their countries. It's very true on how it's not only the families, friends, and fellow solider that are deeply affected, but also the nation. When we hear the fallen death of a solider fighting for our country we too feel sympathy for his family.
In the video clip “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” from the movie “Powder” the theory that everybody is connected but is just blinded and oblivious to that fact. Jeremy believes that everything is connected and when realizing that, people can talk to each other with full honesty without lies. I believe that for people to be able to speak to each other truthfully requires a greater understanding of our existence. The belief that we are blinded by society; the way others act shapes the way we treat others and the way we ourselves are treated. I think that people have been poisoned by technology, the internet a global access point to new people you can talk to without any emotional or physical connection a meeting place where anyone can meet and exchange information without even leaving the comforts of home to venture out into the world. The next generation is a term used to describe the exciting new advances in science when in actuality it is slowly transforming society into a better connected but less proactive community. The necessity we now base on the ease and comfort of using a computer to connect with others rather than meeting them face to face. The irony in this post being that this is going onto the internet.
I like Jesse's points about the factors of individuality making us, but how is it that in our society we are grouped. If we all are truly different how can some people be accepted into groups whilst others can’t? The image of individually is nice but conformity helps those who are different to belong and contribute to a group where they might have not been heard if they stayed an individual. Society wasn’t made so everyone can be an individual, conformity must exist in order for progression of the world.
"You're apart of absolutely everyone and everything."
Regardless of who you are, everyone is connected in one way or another. The feeling of "identify and belonging," can be both a positive or negative thing. An example would be when you saw how others treated Jeremy as he walked through the carnival; they gave him looks as if he was different from everybody else, but they still connected with him, even in a negative context.
He continues on telling Lindsey that she doesn't believe him because she has a blind spot, which refers to isolation, and how if you can't overcome it (like his grandparents)then you are going to stay like that for the rest of your life. You won't be able to live your life as you should, because you can't have an honest conversation with someone.
I agree with what Sam says that: "People should be able to accept others and like them for their unique qualities." That describes Jeremy quite well. How he looks different from others, and how Lindsey is able to accept the way he is and talk to him naturally, as if he isn't different from others. The sense of belonging, bonding with other people is what makes us happy.
After watching the short clip from the film, it was clear that the main character was a victim of society being quick to judge others based on appearances. The film expresses the idea that people generally shun others who are different to themselves; such as race, gender, religion or disabilities. The contrast of the main character walking through a happy setting (the carnival), yet his feelings of negativity due to being judged by the regular people emphasises the feeling of separation and alienation he suffers.
The film "Powder" once again links to the theme of "No man is an Island". Jeremy informs his friend that we are all connected and a part of everything. I found it ironic that even though he was someone who was separated from the public and society in general, he still had the mindset that everyone and everything on this planet is connected
I agree that people, at some stages of their life, can feel isolated and separated from everyone else. In the short film it is clear that Jeremy is looked at differently, based on his appearance. As this can be the case in everyday life, if people could learn to put them self in the shoes of the others they would be better trained to not do that. As Jeremy explains that people can feel separate from others simply based on image the fact is that we are all connected. Being human beings is essentially what creates the instant connection. Unfortunately there are some people that will generally be inconsiderate of their fellow mankind’s feelings. This could be based that some of us just don’t think before acting. I liked how Jeremy was on of those people who are not greatly affected by what others may think. He knows that he is connected to them in someway which connects with the idea of 'No man is an island'
Good luck with this task
ReplyDeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteThis week you need to respond to the poem,"No Man is an Island." It might help to do some research on the poet and the poem. Of course Wikipedia is a good starting point. Between now and next week you need to write about 300 words in total. Firstly write a PERSONAL RESPONSE to the message of the poem (200 words). The you need to RESPOND to someone else's post (100 words). Please ensure when you sign up that you use your own name so I can check all the posts against the roll. Enjoy!
No Man is an Island, by John Donne, I believe is a poem about society and communication. The first line of the poem refers a man to an island, stating that no man is ever isolated or separated by others. “Entire of itself. Each is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.” These few phrases are describing how any man cannot be referred to as an ‘island,’ all alone, however we are all tiny parts of a large island connected together. The poem is saying that we are all part of something bigger, as a society and as a community; we are all connected as civilization. The next few lines of the poem I believe, is reciting that if a little ‘clod’ is washed away, or if a sole man disappears, then the whole continent of men is less, it’s missing something. John Donne says that “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind.” I think what he is saying is that we are all responsible for each other, and that without other people, we are nothing, there is nothing to live for. He is describing how we as humans are all connected to each other, and once the “bell tolls,” ringing of another man’s death, it is not ringing for the individual, but that it rings for everyone.
ReplyDeleteYes but how far do you take this idea of "responsible for each other?"
ReplyDeleteJohn Donne’s quote, “No man is an island” suggests that no one is isolated from another and we are all interconnected. This I agree with. I believe that even if an individual is the last man on earth or simply feels that they are an “island”, that they aren’t. We cannot escape the fact that we have a connection to who gave birth to us, our ancestors and what we are simply a part of, be it a tree that we planted on our own motive. With each motive, I believe we engrave a part of who we are into it resembling each individual for who they are or aspire to be, thus connecting us to something outside of ourselves. Donne’s quote “each man’s death diminishes me” is one I don’t entirely agree with because if I think about the fact that people I don’t know at all in the slightest or feel connected to die every day, I don’t feel diminished. However, the simple thought of that fact does bring sadness no matter how small which leads to my thought on a better word being “changes me”. When Donne quotes “for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” he is making reference to death and how it affects an individual, which links to “each man’s death diminishes me”. At the age of 4 his father died (1576) and then one year later his mother died, followed by his two sisters in 1581. Then, when married to Anne More, after 16 years and 12 children, she died (1617) and he never remarried. Perhaps these experiences were an influence on his writing of the poem.
ReplyDeleteNo man is an island,
ReplyDeleteI believe John Donne’s poem is about being isolated from another person, while we all live in a community together we should be treated exactly the same as everyone else in society no matter what race, religion, gender, cultural heritage, beliefs and values they share. Everyone is different, having different views, or sharing a similar opinion to each other, as humans we are connected in this world through communication and social interactions. No one is right or wrong to have his or her own opinions about something, everyone deserves to have a say in what they belief. By coming together as a community and helping others when they are in need everyone is connected to someone who they can rely on when the going gets tough, making someone feel like they aren‘t lone. In my opinion to Donne’s poem, “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind involves the connection of death affecting everyone differently which impacts the society at different levels. Affecting every one of us together, by the connection we share.
No man is an island; this poem was written by John Donne and has been interpreted in many different ways. I think this is a poem about death and that no man is alone, there is always somebody there for you. The lines "no man is an island, entire of itself" I think means that no man is alone. There is always somebody else in your life, no matter how much you believe you can shut everybody out of your life it can never happen. "Each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main" backs up the point that nobody is alone and you are part of a community. "Each man's death diminishes me, for I am involved in mankind." This is talking about death and that for every person you've ever known if they were to die that would impact you and slowly make you feel that you have nothing to live for, which is where the "No man is an island" line comes in. "Therefore, send not to know For whom the bell tolls, It tolls for thee." I believe this is saying don’t go trying to take your own life away, you still have allot to live for, also that when your time is up that god will take us all one way or another. if you take your own life all your saying is that you couldn't handle it and it will impact all the people around you hugely.
ReplyDeleteNobody can take away who you really are, and where you've came from. What really counts is what's inside of you which defines us from being a good or bad person. No one is perfect, but we are all connected to each other.
ReplyDeleteThe idea of everyone being equal is a great idea...but is it realistic? What is it that diminishes us? What diminishes our community?
ReplyDeleteEverybody should be regarded equal in life. We were all born into this world not knowing how we would turn out and we did not have control over this. To treat anyone differently would be wrong, as they nor we could have control over how they would turn out. The reality of death can be daunting to many, but with the support of family and a community beside you, the task of rebuilding after a tragic death would be made a little easier.
ReplyDeleteNo mans an island’, John Donne is expressing that people are not exactly like islands but are connected to the people they interact with and associate themselves with.To not be connected to anyone is virtually impossible because from the moment you are born you are already connected to your family as you grow older you meet new people and have new friends which associate you and connect you to them. A man is always going to be connected to people. There are many ways which a man can become connected, we are all connected when we go to school,work in a sports team and religon. I agree with Johns idea the a man can not become an island because to we are associated with everything we do within the social world and to be completely isolated from the world is impossible with the modern technology we have and the amount of people with interact with without knowing it.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete“No man is an island”
ReplyDeleteA poem written by John Donne, I think is about how no person should feel lonely or isolated from the real world. In the first sentence it is said that “No man is an island” I personally think that this is true. No matter where you are from, you are born into a family and with a family a community is established. No one should have to feel lonely and when in need there are many shoulders to turn too. “Each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main”, I believe means that everyone is apart of the world no matter what race, religion, disease or disability that they might have. “Each man's death diminishes me, for I am involved in mankind”. I think means that no death will go unnoticed and that each time a tragic death occurs there will be someone there to guide and help you through the rough times. This proves the fact that “No man is an island” and support is always there. “For whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” he is saying that every death affects a family and a community which re establishes his point that “Each man's death diminishes me”. It is impossible not to be connected to anyone in the real world, and the death of anyone can affect a vas majority of people and in Mr. Donne’s case it was his family.
Thats an interesting view Mitch but in reponse to your post I don't entirely agree with what you said on everyone being treated equally and how we don't have control on how we are going to turn out. I'l use Carl Williams (guy that Underbelly was based around) as an example. He made the choices to kill people and become involved with criminals and scandal. He had control over what he was doing. This leads to your belief on everyone being treated equally. Do you think someone like Carl Williams should be treated the same as everyone else?
ReplyDeletexx =)
Thats a fair point you make there david.But i was more reffering to indivduals that might suffer from a disability or an inpairment, that no one should treat these people or even look at them differntly.
ReplyDeleteJohn Donne’s poem “No Man Is An Island” explores the theme of ones dependence on others, and resolves that we all need each other in some way or another, and with each person who passes on we lose some of our own human existence. The whole idea that we need one another is seen in everyday life; as the design of our society enables us to purchase goods and services with money, which then, in turn, allows the seller of the good or service to purchase their own things to survive. All of the intricate relationships formed in this process can, in a strange and small way, fill details into our own lives even when we don’t notice.
ReplyDeleteTake, for example, a café that you enjoy going to. You go in there semi-regularly. You don’t necessarily have to be best friends with the manager, but you know him or her. You expect the same service and atmosphere every time you enter. The pictures on the wall, the lovely waiter or waitress’s cheery smiles, and the light hum of the tracks playing from their built-in music system.
Now imagine the same place, however the manager has packed up and left. Now, on the surface, it seems like the same place. But go inside, and the café has a slight different feel to it, the pictures have changed, the cheery smiles, although still cheery, are slightly out of place in the seemingly familiar backdrop.
Everyone who has even the slightest connection to our own lives, everyone who interacts with you, helps to shape our lives. No man is an island. In fact, like John Donne writes, we are all “a piece of the continent, a part of the main,” all working towards a brighter future for all of us. As is part of the human condition, we all need contact with others, even those who do not think they do. To have no interaction is to not be completely human.
John Donne's poem titled "no man is an island" i think is a poem can mean very different things. One of which being about people in the world connecting. No one in the world should be alone, everyone in the world has someone to go to when they need to interact or just talk. We as human beings love to interact, laugh and play which is what most of us do to connect as we are all humans. "Each man's death diminishes me" i think this backs up that we are all connected for example when someone dies in a family more than one person is effected by this. Just by say "No man is an island" i think defines its self because it is right no one is or should be alone because Human beings do not thrive when isolated from others . We as mankind thrive by communicating and we are all equal no one is better than anyone because we are all human beings. I think the last two lines "For whom the bell tolls It tolls for thee" has something to do with dying as in when you die that's it so we should be grateful for what we have and live out lives.
ReplyDelete"No Man Is an Island" - Matter of belonging and identity
ReplyDeleteI believe the poem by John Donne is true and people cannot depend entirely by themselves. John Donne makes a comparison with islands and people. An island may seem separate from other lands but however it is connected; it is just separated by water. People depend on others to live, for example Will Freeman depended on his father's money to live his luxuriant lifestyle. Another example is when people say their independent when they are really not, for example they have a job and earn money; however the money is from their boss/manager and they rely on customers buying their goods or product. As you can see everyone relies on someone. Even animals depend on others to live for, such as the food chain. In John Donne's poem he writes that once someone has died part of them dies; he contrasts this with an example if a bit of Europe is washed away, Europe will not be the same. If you think about it no human being can live entirely by themselves. They physically couldn't, for example no human being by themselves can grow food, make food, make medicine, make clothes, make technology etc. That is why people in the world share all these responsibilities. Humans also need to communicate with one another otherwise they would get lonely. Therefore no one can live entirely by themselves and no man is an island.
the poem titled 'no man is an island' written by John Donne, is about how we as humans are all connected. John Donne expresses that when you feel alone like there is no one there, there is always somebody to give you a pick me up. we as human beings were put on this earth to confide with each other, love each other and make relationships with each other. the idea of a man is an island isn't possible, each and every person has a family, friends, work colleagues and people that we bump into on the street. a man or a woman may be independent but the human condition says different, a man may be an island but connected to land beneath the deep blue.
ReplyDeleteAn archipelago is a cluster of islands that is formed tectonically. The blog title relates to the poem "No Man is an Island" by John Donne. This means that no-one is by themselves, that they are not an island surrounded by water but an archipelago of people around them. What would you prefer? Being by yourself in the middle of no-where with no-one to speak to, or having people around to talk to you? To help you out when you struggle, and also times when they are there to make you smile. The poem reflects that everyone is connected one way to another. That even the slightest thing, (be it the war in Iraq how many Australian soldiers have died) not even having to know that person makes us feel sorry for them; it makes us feel lessened than we originally were. How do you solve a puzzle with pieces missing? Mankind would not survive by solely relying on ourselves, and John Donne demonstrates this in this poem.
ReplyDeletei like what David said. I agree how he said we are connected with everything family friends ancestors everyone is connected in many different ways. I also like how you said when Donne says “for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee” is a reference to death that makes sense
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean Rhys. I used to (this is going to sound really bad) work at Oporto. I found myself as being a pretty good employee, where there would be regular customers who would come and usually order the same things; with a smile present on their face. And it seems that after I had left, a few of the regulars that I would serve didn't go there anymore. It's just like you said. Even having the slightest connection helps shape our lives. Because it was those regulars that actually made my work better than it normally was (well, basically I could be like a psychic and guess what meal they are having, seeing as they would order the same thing and I could get free food). Anyway, even customers who didn't come regularly were still (most of the time) friendly and just leaving a smile on someones face (from my incredible customer service) when they walked away made me happy.
ReplyDelete‘No Man is an Island’, is a metaphor pleading, no one is alone. That we as human beings are a dependent race that relies on one another for love and support. This poem looks at the bigger picture, whether we are of different race, colour or culture we are all connected as we are human. However, challenging this quote I believe that everyone must be an island at various stages throughout life. We as humans need to develop ourselves and learn from life and the challenges it throws at us. We cannot be dependent on others to survive. Sure, we can seek guidance when it is needed but for some obstacles, we need to feel as though we are alone to conquer them. It is only through the darkest times that we learn to appreciate things with more sincerity and a new founded respect that is only obtained through a struggle. See, by being spoon fed our whole lives, how are we to develop ourselves as individuals? I’m not saying that Donne’s quote is wrong, but I am questioning the fact that men and women may at some stage in life accept to be alone.
ReplyDeleteTyler,
ReplyDeleteI agree with the point you are making, how we all have someone there for us, no matter how hard we may try to fight it. However, your final point on the last few lines of Donne’s poem I feel differently about. I believe he is trying to point out that as people die, you too slowly lose what it means to be human, which is strengthening his point in a previous line, when he states that “Each man's death diminishes me.”
This is just my own interpretation of it, and does not make it “right” by any means.
'No man is an island' By John Donne. This poem refers to how nobody is,(or should be) surrounded by nothing. That everyone should have someone or something there at all times. This poem is about how people are always in one way or another connected by the big picture of society. The way somebody acts will impact another. Man should constantly have a connection. I believe this is true. We cannot escape the fact that society relies on one another to get by with everyday life. If someone is to be "washed away", then a piece of one or more connections will be lessened. This poem takes a step back when thinking about life and draws in the bigger picture of how people get on with their lives. Teachers teaching on their students, students going home to their parents, parents coming home from work. The pieces of the bigger puzzle all interrelate. To say that someone is an island is an exaggeration on their current social status. When John uses the word island, i think of a small place that has been cut off from the world and it's workings. Nobody is in this position.
ReplyDeleteJames,
I like how you relate the poem to the war in Iraq, because of how delicate that situation is. It really made me think of how clearly someone who i have absolutely no connection with other than country of origin, makes me feel like i am sort-of part of that war, even though i'm not there. You made your point of if everyone was independent very clear. "how do you solve a puzzle with missing pieces?" I think you've hit the nail on the head.
“No man is an island” is a metaphorical reference that no one is alone. I believe that John Donne is saying that we cannot live in isolation from others. In saying so, I believe that this refers to not being able to live happily. Just think about it for a moment. Erase all your friends and family from your life and try living alone. I don’t think many people today would last very long. This further proves my point that if we were to live alone, it wouldn’t be a happy time. Take Will Freeman for example. He believed that he lived a pleasant and happy life, until Marcus came into his life. Will found people he could connect with on a certain level. Or even more importantly, people who he could be with. This left Will with a new and different perspective on life and I’m sure he enjoyed it a lot more than being alone.
ReplyDeleteAn archipelago is a chain or cluster of islands that is formed tectonically. The context of this blog and the poem both demonstrate that we are all connected or part of a community. I also believe that our lives would lack meaning if it weren’t for the interaction with other people in society, with friends and family. It almost leads your thinking towards what would we have to live for?
I agree with David’s concern about Mitch’s comment - 'everyone having to be treated equally.' I understand that you were referring to something else, but with that statement I would like to add: John Donne says that “Each man’s death diminishes me.” I do not believe that a death of someone like Hitler for example could diminish me. Nor would I be diminished by any other tyrant like him. They are referred to as "clogs" in the poem and I believe they are just that. There is no reason to feel diminished by someone if they didn’t have a good image in society or positive impact on your life. The reference in the poem should be a little more specific in saying who’s death we would be diminished by, for example a family member, friend or maybe even an idol of ours.
The poem "no man is an island" by John Donne I think it means that no one stands alone when you think you need to be alone. Most people will always have friends or family to stick with you in times that you may think that need to be alone, even if they just wait for you to come good again. The word ‘island’ is referring to a man being stranded on an island surrounded by water with no other human contact apart from themselves, although the line “each man diminishes me” means that if someone leaves your life you will feel a loss, no matter how close they were to you, you may never get that part of you back to normal again, this also ties in with the line “For whom the bell tolls”. The line “for I am involved in mankind” means that although people may not realise it, people need others to make the feel happy with who they are, and also to feel accepted in society. I will use school as an example, at school everyone’s wears the same uniform, and listen to the same bell. Only when someone is called over the loudspeakers then so people start getting singled out.
ReplyDeleteNo man is an island, this poem written by John Donne illustrates the fact that no man is alone. I think the poem is about the struggle man faces by himself but by co-operating with others and forming groups, communities and friendships man can pogress over adversity and and come out on top. Think of the world as a machine each person being an unique part of that machine, alone they can achieve little but together they form a machine that can achieve anything. The poem also talks about death and how with the loss of people europe is the lesser, this I belive means that as people pass on the machine formed by them becomes less functioning and eventually useless, this is never to happen though for the reason of rebirth the replacement of each unique person with another is a part of nature. When we die whether or not we come back, I don't know if there is some greater power that has a plan for human kind who knows such knowledge is beyond us, what I do know is that by ourselves we are nothing together we form something great and powerful. History remembers men for the deeds they have done with others not for the single events commited by themselves. When the poem describes being involved in mankind it gives the feeling that any action taken by any person somewhere in the world impacts someone else in the world (Newtons Third law “To every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction: or the forces of two bodies on each other are always equal and are directed in opposite directions)”. No man can survive by themselves they need the support and structure given to them by the people around them.
ReplyDeleteA quote I heard once was “The only reason we die is because we’ve accepted death as an inevitability” , something to thing about when reading a poem like this.
"No man is an islad" is a metaphor alleging that we as humans, are not alone, even when you may think you are. John Donne says "every man
ReplyDeleteis a piece of the continent, a part of the main", which implies that all human beings are connected, no matter of your race or culture. Humans will rely on other humans for support and love, we will depend on one another. I feel this quote makes a good point, alothough I think there were all ways be a time when someone is alone, or feels alone. But I think this is what the poem is saying. Although you may always feel alone at some stages in your life, there is always someone there, even if you may not know it. Wheteher it be your friends, family, teachers etc. Yet sometimes, it's a matter of learning how to cope when you may think your alone. Yes, you can depend on other people to help you out, but at the end of the day, it's really up to you. What use is it when your older and depending on other people your whole life?
I believe that the poem "No man is an island" by John Donne is about individuals' dependence and how they become to connect to each other.
ReplyDeleteThe phrase 'Each is a piece of the continent, A part of the main' suggests how no matter how much an individual may feel that they are alone, they are, in a way which may not be clear, connected to another. At first an 'island' may seem all on its own, isolated from the rest of world, but as you explore deep down into the ocean, you will discover that it is in fact connected to a larger block of land, as John Donne suggests. This proves that even though a man, for example Will Freeman from 'About a Boy' may believe he is an 'island', he is fact connected to something larger, somewhere he has the right to belong to.
By belonging to a group develops connection between individuals, and this connection can lead to their dependence on each other. Different people can have different levels of dependence on others. For example an infant will have full dependence on their parents whereas an adult would rely in themselves more than others. This suggests that although people may think they do not need others to survive, unnoticeably they are connected to others, therefore relying on them.
Lastly, I find the phrase 'Each man's death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind' is the most interesting and beautiful phrase in the poem. as individuals are connected to each other, they become a part of each others' lives. No matter how big or small this part may be, if that part disappears, or when a person 'dies' in this case, you do lose a part of yourself, and you are no longer completely what you used to be. this can be taken negatively or positively, but I believe this is a positive approach, since it shows the importance of connection you have with other people.
'No man is an island', an excerpt taken from 'Meditation XVII', was written by John Donne in 1624. I believe that when Donne wrote this, he was trying to express his belief that human beings cannot further progress in life without human interaction.
ReplyDeleteWhen Donne says, 'each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main', he suggests that every person (each) is a part of a community (continent), that is linked to other communities, (making up the 'main'). Without others, we would not get any assistance when we are in need, and it would be every man for himself. Charities wouldn’t exist and the situation in Africa would be much worse than it is now.
By saying, 'Each man's death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind', Donne is saying that a person's death affects and weakens us all because we are humans. A chain is the perfect metaphor for this poem; a chain is as strong as its weakest link, so each link making up the chain is equally important. If this wasn’t true, a person’s death would simply be accepted and that would be that. Instead, after a person’s death, we grieve, remember and celebrate their life at a funeral service and we may not get over it for a while.
Utah, I like the way you gave an example of the machine as our world. It really gives a great example of how humans do need people around to be able to achieve much greater and powerful things. Working together as part of a group we are able to accomplish much more, than working on something ourselves.
ReplyDeleteDear Danny, I liked your post a lot because it was smart and it made sense, and I agree with it. I think it was really smart how you talked about charities and poverty in Africa at the moment, because you're putting the term 'no man is an island' into todays terms which can make everyone familiar with the situation more personally. Also, the whole 'chain' metaphor was also really smart because it explains how humans are connected and how 'each chain is equally important.' :)
ReplyDeleteI believe that the poem " No man is an island" written by John Donne is simply saying that no one is alone. Everybody is somehow connected in some way, no matter who you are. In the poem John says "every man is a piece of the continent" implying that everyone belongs somewhere and is never isolated like an "island" like is may seem sometimes. People will always rely and depend on others for support and help when they feel alone.
ReplyDeleteDavid questioned whether people like Carl Williams deserve to be treated equally, like everybody else. If we don't apply the same standards of fairness to all what happens to us? Isn't it bad for your "soul" or "spirit" to treat people differently or unfairly. If you apply the same standards to all then you are a better person....Have a good holiday David.
ReplyDelete"No Man is an Island" refers to that no person can be cut off from society. I believe that no man can be an island for their entire life. People can manage to live lonely and think that they are living a good life. I believe that we are all connected by our responsibility to help others; however through life we can avoid the confrontation by not facing the responsibility. John Donne wrote about everyone in the community being connected in one way or another. He used the example, “If a clod be washed away by the sea. Europe is the less. As well as if a promontory were”. This refers to everybody being equal in society and not judging who is more or less. He also writes “For whom the bell tolls, It tolls for thee” and this suggests that the community is connected through the church bell to let the public know that someone has died. But in this modern age, we aren’t just connected in a local community; we are also connected through an international community through the internet. I believe that no person can live in isolation from others for too long because we need love and a sense of belonging.
ReplyDeletehey everyone, i like danny's post the best! i agree with what danny is explaining as it was along the same lines as what i was trying to explain. i like how you could express donnes feelings in a modern text rather than the language of 600 years ago! nice work danny.
ReplyDelete"No man is an island" is a poem written by John Donne in the year 1624. I believe what Donne is trying to express through his poem is that no matter how alone or separated an individual may feel, they're never truly alone, as someone, somewhere out there is going through the same issue or problem.
ReplyDeleteThe lines "Each is a piece of the continent" and "A part of the main" could refer to the fact that we're all a part of something, whether it's a family, school, where you work or your community. This again, reinforces the fact that “no man is an island”. Interaction between other beings is what makes up a large part of who we are. How would someone act if they were completely isolated from all of mankind, technology and animals? The connection people have with each other in this day and age is what has got us to where we are now, without great minds being put together, how could the technology and environment we live in today exist and continue to develop?
Towards the end of the poem, Donne says “Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind”. To me this line is saying that we are affected by other’s actions or what happens to them. If you lose someone you are connected to, someone you see or have something to do with regularly, it affects you emotionally and in most cases is something that can never be entirely fixed. When you lose a loved one, you lose a part of yourself, because everyone influences each other. Maybe when someone or something is lost and can’t be replaced we do become that little bit closer to being an island our self.
Apparently my comment just disappears after I post. Better not have posted twice now :|
The title; ‘No man is an island’, written by John Donne, significantly highlights the fact that no man is alone, that there is always someone else whether they know it or not. This also signifies that we are highly dependant on those around us, and for the world to function we need connection which we are immediately granted at birth. I agree that in most aspects that no man is an island simply because we are brought into the world with many people around us who help us grow, but at times we can all feel alone. I think that some can choose to be an island at some stages in life because it may be the only way to learn. I also believe that John Donne is explaining that no man can act like an island, for all actions will affect those around us, and that the world just doesn’t revolve around one person. The title of this blog; “archipelago,” simply means a chain and cluster of islands, although they are islands, they are still surrounded by others. I believe that the cluster is the community and the chain is our connection.
ReplyDeleteGood work 11H! It was great to read your responses but don't forget you need to post once, read the posts of others and comment. We'll be discussing some of the comments made in class. Next week there wil be a video short to respond to.
ReplyDeleteTrent, i believe that your post was very good because it broke down the topic well. You gave your opinion and provided examples to back it up. You also analysed the blog title "archipelago" which not many people did.
ReplyDelete:)
i liked dannys response because he makes alot of sense and uses really good examples. got lost in Jesses response and not quite sure were Trent got his response from.
ReplyDeleteI liked Tents post, I agree with the idea that there is always someone around us weather we know it or not, I think that is very true. Some can choose to be an island at some stages in life because it may be the only way to learn, this I disagree with. I think the only way you can be an island at some stages I your life is through your own arrogance and stubbornness.
ReplyDeleteum... I'm just assuming we post here for the second task too; if this isn't the case, I'll repost later :P
ReplyDeleteThe snippet of the movie “Powder” explores the idea of everyone feeling disconnected and detached from one another, but in reality we are all part of a greater force; of humanity.
I agree with this notion that we, at some point in our lives, feel isolated. We are all individuals, and yet part of a collective at the same time. Our thoughts and actions are made entirely by ourselves, and although we may be influenced by others (through peer pressure and the like), we are held responsible for our own actions as individuals. We do not think as a group, we think as ourselves. It’s basic human nature to think of ourselves first. In fact, it’s a rule of nature. Survival of the fittest.
In a way, I also agree that we are all part of everything. Our actions, however small, affect those around us. One’s decision to take the car to work will mean that in the traffic, the person behind you is slightly later than what they would have been had you not taken the same way to work. In this fashion, we are all part of a huge, living organism that is humanity. We are all one sole piece, but we are part of a greater puzzle.
Rhys, congrats on the first post! When the lead character walks through the crowd clearly everyone is looking at him. You get the feeling that they are judgemental...thinking as a group.It seems that if you are different you are suspect.Others see you as some kind of threat.
ReplyDeleteTASK #2
ReplyDeleteThe clip from the movie “powder” explores the idea that everyone at some stage in there life will experience the feeling of being different.
“You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” I think is a true statement. We are all individuals and it is up to us to make decisions for ourselves. Some of these decisions may influence or involve others, we may also be influenced by others to make the wrong decisions. Our actions can have affects on others. An example of this was when I went to a TAC alcohol driving awareness seminar, where is was demonstrated that by getting in a car under the influence killing the driver and passengers doesn’t just affect both families it also affects both communities.
Jeremy in the short clip is looked at differently because of his looks and the way he comes across, but deep down he is still the same as everyone else. Everyone should feel like they belong and that they are accepted in society, even though they may look different. Everyone should have the satisfaction to say that they belong.
‘Powder – you’re part of absolutely everyone and everything,’ is talking about how although people may feel isolated and different to everyone else, we are all the same in the end. We all live on the same earth, breathe the same air and walk the same path. Humans all feel the same emotions, have the same purposes, and are all connected in that way. In some way I do agree that we are part of absolutely everyone and everything as even if we may not know it, we are affecting something. By walking down the street we may step on a flower or knock over an ant hill, and affect them without even noticing. We may do something as simple as give a homeless person a couple dollars, and that may pay for their dinner that night, therefore we are becoming a part of them and their gratitude.
ReplyDeleteAt the beginning of the clip, Jeremy is stared at by passersby at the carnival because he is considered to be ‘different’ for his appearance. They do not understand that he is the same as all of them, even though he may look slightly different on the outside. However, this does not affect Jeremy in any way as he knows that he is the same as everyone else, and he believes that we are all connected to each other. He tells his friend that “Inside most people there’s a feeling of being separate from everything – and they’re not.” This shows his open mind and open heart and his hopeful message that we are not alone.
I think rhys' comment was really interesting because he talked about feeling isolated and alone as well as being a part of everything. I think that how he mentioned survival of the fittest and how its our basic instinct to think of ourselves first was really smart and it got me thinking about a whole different message the movie clip may have been trying to send across. I really like rhys' blog. :)
ReplyDeleteText #2 - Powder
ReplyDeleteThe video clip 'Powder' explores the idea about people feeling different and separate from others.
I agree with that idea and how people at one stage of their life they will feel separated by others and people around us. We may feel isolated and separated by others because of our actions, looks and feelings. In the beginning of the film Jeremy is walking through the carnival and everyone was looking at him because he looked differently, people judged him on his appearance. People shouldn’t “judge a book by its cover”, people there didn’t realise that they were somehow connected to Jeremy he then explains, “Inside people there’s a feeling of being separated, separated from everything", "...and they’re not, they're part of absolutely everyone and everything" - I believe this quote is true and that you are never alone even though you may feel it in the inside but in reality and on the outside your not. We are all connected through one and another, we all share something; we all are human. Deep down we’re all are the same. People don’t think about this as people don’t consider other people’s feelings before they judge others because of their appearance or they way the behave. Jeremy is one of the few people who don’t care what others think as he knows he’s somewhat the same as others and somewhat connected.
I believe that the message of the scene from the movie “Powder” is about the way people isolate and alienate other people from society. At the same time though, the message of everyone being part of the same community and being connected is conveyed.
ReplyDeleteAt the beginning of the clip, everybody stares at Jeremy because they see him differently. This shows that the majority attitude of the community was to disregard people who were classified as different. A community which seems to act in line with each other. But I believe that we as individuals are responsible for our own actions in society with our strongest influence coming from family. In saying so, I disagree that everyone can act in line with other people because we are all different.
Jeremy says that most of the people in the community have a feeling of being separate, and separate from everything; alone or isolated. He disagrees with this by saying ‘They are part of absolutely everyone, and everything.’ I agree with his original statement in saying that we are separate. At some stage in everyone’s lives people are going to feel alone because no one else is going to be able to understand their situation. In reference to his second statement about everyone being part of everyone and everything, I agree with it to an extent. We are part of a large community as a whole and our actions can have affects on other people in the community. (I would like to further continue my point in my second post in reference to a comment Rhys had made.)
Jeremy also states that people live behind lies, sarcasms, deceptions and exaggerations to confuse the truth. My interpretation of this is that people prefer to live in denial, or they are afraid of the truth and are too scared to stand up to it. To live open minded like Jeremy I believe is the best way. You are able to make decisions for yourself and know the difference between the truth and what is a lie.
Rhys used the example of someone taking a car to work affecting the person behind them that they are going to be late. I don’t completely agree that this is how a ‘living organism’ (as Rhys described it) would operate. I lean more towards the idea of pollution and the way we affect the environment as a better example of how we affect society as a whole. In my opinion this demonstrates the idea of us being part of everything and everyone because we will be affecting the society as a whole not just an individual in the community. For a ‘living organism’ to operate I would suggest the idea of having a domino effect; an action of someone continues to affect more and more people leading to it being the effect on the society as a whole.
ReplyDelete'Powder'. This video clip explores not only how people are connected, but how they can be negatively attached to others in society. Being connected to someone or something does not always mean good. In this case, Jeremy is judged solely on his looks rather than his personality, excluding him from what the majority of society believes is ok, and yet they are still tied together. When Jeremy sits down to talk, he explains how the whole world is touched by one another's actions and thoughts. "Inside most people there’s a feeling of being separate, separated from everything" I believe that Jeremy is spot-on here. That the feeling of loneliness is feared by everyone, even though at times they may be surrounded by people. The feeling of being separate plays on people's minds making them do things they wouldn't normally do, it's at these moments we connect with others we wouldn't normally interact with. People need to look beyond the "spot" of disconnection to feel like they are part of the bigger picture. To be one of those people, who look beyond what people think or care, is a piece of the puzzle that’s makes up that feeling of being attached to someone.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you Diana, the fact that even if it's a negative impact on say a flower or an ant hill, we are still interacting with it. How Jeremy comes across differently on the outside but is the same underneath is a good example of how people interact differently to their, (or society's) belief of what is normal. I like how you draw on his message of not being alone with a simple view point on what other people think. I really liked your viewpoint on the video Diana.
ReplyDeleteI believe that the short video 'You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything' from the film 'Powder' explores the theme of how people isolate themselves and others, while still being connected unknowingly.
ReplyDeleteAlthough people may feel isolated, and at times, isolate themselves, it is a completely different matter from being disconnected. At the start of the video when Jeremy is walking through the crowd at the carnival, he seems isolated since everyone is staring at him for his 'different' appearance. But by the onlookers recognising Jeremy's existence, they are interacting and connecting with him, even though it may be in a negative way. It may be uncomfortable for strangers to look at you differently, but wouldn't you feel more isolated and actually disconnected if absolutely no one even turned their head to look at you or had no realisation you were there?
Also, Jeremy talks about how most people have a 'spot' in their mind, which doesn't let them think past the point of isolation or disconnection. Jeremy believes that he can look past this 'spot', therefore he is not afraid when others look at him differently, because he knows he is still connected, in one way or the other.
I do believe that we are a part of 'absolutely everyone and everything' because we contribute as a part to someone we know, and they are part of someone else, which connects all of us to something bigger, mankind.
The clip from 'Powder' explores the belief that people are connected to everything around them, whether they can see it or not. Jeremy talks about how, on the inside, people think that they are separate, but really, they’re not. He continues to say that ‘they’re a part of absolutely everyone. And everything.’
ReplyDeleteThe idea that we are all connected to everything may seem hard to believe, as is shown by Lindsey, who questions the notion by sarcastically asking Jeremy if she’s connected to ‘this tree?’ or ‘some fisherman in Italy on some ocean I’ve never even heard of?’ but I believe that it has some truth to it. Jeremy, in the first part of the clip, is being stared at by other people whilst simply walking through a fair. He is linked to every single person looking. These ties aren’t necessarily positive, but they are ties nonetheless. Lindsey’s inability to see these connections is attributed to ‘the spot’, as is it called by Jeremy.
If we weren’t connected to everyone, and everything, we wouldn’t be on this earth. Take the human body as an example. Your fingers aren’t directly connected to your toes, but if you look, they are. Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. The same goes for humans and the earth. We communicate with others, who have contact with even more people, etc. The ‘six degrees of separation’ theory states that everyone is, at most, six steps away from any other person on Earth, through a friend of a friend of a friend. This may seem to be fabricated, but in an age of facebook and twitter, it may be truer than ever.
Diana summed it up great, saying that ‘even if we may not know it, we are affecting something’. The part about the homeless person and how a simple donation can link us to that person puts a new perspective on things and make you realise the effect you, and everyone else, can have on someone
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ReplyDeleteTask# 2 “POWDER”
ReplyDeleteIn response to the film clip “Powder”, the clip explores the idea that no man is separated from everything, everyone is connected to each other, or something around them. In the clip Jeremy states, “ You're part of absolutely everyone and everything.” I agree with the statement because as individuals we aren't isolated, we are able to decide the best possible decision, which are passed down from our peers, the way we are brought up and family values. Even though it might not be the right decision, by the end we learn by our past mistakes, so the same mistakes aren't repeated over and over again. We are connected to each other, even though at times we may feel like we don't exactly belong in our society.
When Jeremy walks through the crowd of people in the carnival, people are staring at him because of his different appearance to everyone else. He describes to his friend that he's not scared of what other people might think of him. He goes on to say that the connection between people can't be broken, everyone should feel like we all belong and there shouldn't be a need to hide from anything. No matter who we are, or where we have come from nothing should separate us from anything. The connection between people can never be broken, by lies, sarcasm, and exaggeration. It's what's inside of a person that really counts, not what's outside. We as humans should never be judgemental about anyone else's appearance, because just think, if you were in that same position would you like someone staring at you while you walk past because you were different from the rest?
In the short clip of powder. I think Jeremy is referring to the fact that no matter what people say that everyone is connected. You see people walking around everyday and you may not realize it but each person has a connection with everyone else. I think when Jeremy says "inside most people there is a feeling of being separate, separate from everything" he is referring to people that isolate themselves from society because people that do that talk to absolutely no one and he is right, they are part of absolutely everyone no matter what it be, friends family, pets whatever it may be we are all connected. Jeremy is correct is saying we are apart of "everyone and everything", it explores the fact that we are never alone you always have someone!
ReplyDeleteDanny i really agree with how u said at the start of the clip when everyone is looking at Jeremy even though there no giving him a positive look. Also when you mention the part about the human body this is also true "Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. This sums is up perfectly because we as human beings all have these parts and therefore there must be some kind of connection
In response to Tina’s comments:
ReplyDeleteI agree with most of the points you make, however is being disconnected really that different from feeling isolated? When one feels isolated, they feel they are alone, and tend to feel disconnected with everyone around them.
By using (very helpful might I add), dictionary.com, I found a definition of disconnected:
- To withdraw into one's private world.
Then looking at isolated:
- Separated from other persons or things; alone; solitary.
The two terms are quite similar, and to say they are “completely different” is, in my opinion, rather strange.
Overall though, I rather enjoyed your response. :) Look forward to seeing you write more! :)
the short video 'powder' takes the idea of no man is an island, a poem written by John Donne and gives a more modern explanation of what john donne wrote about. as jeremy walks through the festival everybody looks at him negatively and treat him differently, jeremy doesn't take any notice and walks straight through. when jeremy sits down he states "inside most people there is a feeling of being separate, separate from everything" this means that people feel like they are alone or isolated from the world when there is something wrong, all we need to wait for is somebody to bring us back to realise that we are all the same we all feel the same pain, love and hate for things in our world. all in all that is why jeremy believes we are all connected.
ReplyDeleteim going to respond to dannys post once again as he holds a strong point and argues this "Lindsey, who questions the notion by sarcastically asking Jeremy if she’s connected to ‘this tree?’ or ‘some fisherman in Italy on some ocean I’ve never even heard of?" this is a strong point as jeremy states we are conected to everything and everyone. good work danny!
Text #2: Powder
ReplyDeleteThe video clip entitled “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” taken from the movie “Powder” explores the concept of how individuals can feel separate and isolated from everyone else, but in actual fact, Jeremy believes deep down they’re connected to everyone and everything that surrounds them.
In the beginning of the clip there is a scene where Jeremy is walking through a crowd of people staring at him, because he looks aesthetically different from them and whether or not they know it, he is mentally too. I believe this clip can show that more often than not, you don’t always necessarily separate yourself from others, but instead you’re actually excluded and driven away because of being an individual and having different beliefs and values.
Jeremy continues to say that there is no need to hide or lie and it’s possible to talk to someone without any lies, sarcasm, deception or exaggeration. To me this means we shouldn’t be ashamed of who we are and being an individual. Everyone is different in some way or another, whether it’s their beliefs, values or appearance. From watching this short video I get the idea that Jeremy isn’t afraid of who he is and being different, as no one should be. People should be able to accept others and like them for their unique qualities.
I agree with what Danny is saying about connections not always being a positive thing. Just because we’re connected, it doesn’t necessarily make it a positive thing and could perhaps be negative, for example, like I was saying earlier about how some people can exclude others. Often when someone is excluded from a group they will feel isolated and they are, as they’re singled out, but they are still connected in a negative way because often that group could proceed to bully and make fun of that person.
No bars... comment didn't post, again
In response I believe Danny’s response was great. I also agree that we are all connected to everything, which may seem hard to believe. You sum up being connected to everyone as humans very well when you said. Take the human body as an example. Your fingers aren’t directly connected to your toes, but if you look, they are. Your toes are connected to your feet, which are connected to your legs, which are connected to your torso, which is connected to your arms, which are connected to your hands, which are connected to your fingers. Never really thought of it this way, but a very good example as we are all connected within the body and also the world. GREAT WORK DANNY.
ReplyDeleteTEXT #2 "POWDER"
ReplyDeleteThe video "powder" I think is a good example of how people belong and how society can make you feel unwanted. Even though Jeremy looks different and when everyone stares at him, it seems as though he is a bit of an outsider, he knows that he belongs, and that he is part of that community. He may look different to all the other people, but he is the same as everyone of them. I think it was really intelligent when he told the girl that she had this "spot....where your disconnected from everything" i think that was a message saying that even though everyone is different in their own way, they're still connected in someway. Belonging is a place where everyone wants to be and everyone has a right to feel accepted.
‘Powder: Your part of absolutely everyone and everything’.
ReplyDeleteThe video clip from the scene, ‘Powder’ shows the cruelty society can have on an individual for looking, acting or dressing differently, when in actual fact the message it conveys is of positive significance; This being that everyone is connected to their community, their culture and their surroundings.
Every person is different, whether it is the way we dress or the choices we make. It’s these factors that make us individuals and seperate us from the people beside us. However, these people should not be judged for their display of individuality as though they may appear different to the rest of us, we all share one similarity and this is the emotion we express as human beings. Even though we are all different, we all feel emotion at the best and worst of times. It is this feeling of emotion that connectively binds us together, not as individuals but as a community.
It is like when a soldier dies serving his country. His family, friends and fellow officers aren’t the only people who feel the effects of his death. We as a nation grieve for this person and the ultimate sacrifice they have paid for our country. Though death is not somthing to be celebrated, it is something binding that allows us as humans to come together; to share our emotion and show that we are not that different from one another. ‘That we are apart of everyone and everything.’
Danny made a great point with his statement refering to the human body, and he is right. Whether we like it or not we are connected. we can choose to deny and even disregard it but at the end of the day we are all human, and this is something we all have in common.
ReplyDeleteSome really interesting points made guys. A couple in particular stay with me;the idea that pollution can be a metaphor for connection. Not all connectionis good. I read it at the sme time we were watching the film, "Into the wild" and the main character made the comment about "poisoned by civilization." Can civilization be toxic? And Jesse's observation about the binding nature of death and grief. I watched a doco on the phone calls of 9/11 last night. One of the relatives made the same point. That the nation was united in their personal grief.So connection can be both good and sad but either way it's there.
ReplyDeleteThe video clip “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” from the movie “Powder” explores the idea that individuals can feel separate and isolated from society, however Jeremy believes they’re connected to everyone and everything that surrounds them and other people just cant see or believe that.
ReplyDeleteThe setting at the start of the clip when Jeremy is walking through the crowd of people staring at him at a fair is critical. I think they have chosen this setting because a fair is usually a social place and they're all staring at Jeremy because he is different. When he sits down to talk to the other woman it proves that people can look into someone to see the good in them and we can all be connected to each other.
When he is talking to the woman he brings up the point that humans feel the need to hide lies, sarcasm, exaggeration and deception. i think this is true. We do feel the need to lie and hide behind deceptions but why, it only takes us further from the truth and can bite you in the bum when somebody else finds out the truth, and that we shouldn't be afraid to be ourselves.
I don’t agree with the thought that we are connected to absolutely everyone and everything. I think we are connected to people and things but absolutely everybody and everything is a bit of an exaggeration though. In the real scheme of things when you consider how many people are in the world we don’t actually know many people.
I think Jesse's post is very good and couldn't be much truer. I like the example he used about the soldiers death and how many people that effects. I think he's done a good job of understanding the meaning behind the film clip too.
In Response to Jesse's post i really like the way he gave the example of the soldiers who die serving their countries. It's very true on how it's not only the families, friends, and fellow solider that are deeply affected, but also the nation. When we hear the fallen death of a solider fighting for our country we too feel sympathy for his family.
ReplyDeleteIn the video clip “You’re part of absolutely everyone and everything” from the movie “Powder” the theory that everybody is connected but is just blinded and oblivious to that fact. Jeremy believes that everything is connected and when realizing that, people can talk to each other with full honesty without lies. I believe that for people to be able to speak to each other truthfully requires a greater understanding of our existence. The belief that we are blinded by society; the way others act shapes the way we treat others and the way we ourselves are treated. I think that people have been poisoned by technology, the internet a global access point to new people you can talk to without any emotional or physical connection a meeting place where anyone can meet and exchange information without even leaving the comforts of home to venture out into the world. The next generation is a term used to describe the exciting new advances in science when in actuality it is slowly transforming society into a better connected but less proactive community. The necessity we now base on the ease and comfort of using a computer to connect with others rather than meeting them face to face. The irony in this post being that this is going onto the internet.
ReplyDeleteI like Jesse's points about the factors of individuality making us, but how is it that in our society we are grouped. If we all are truly different how can some people be accepted into groups whilst others can’t? The image of individually is nice but conformity helps those who are different to belong and contribute to a group where they might have not been heard if they stayed an individual. Society wasn’t made so everyone can be an individual, conformity must exist in order for progression of the world.
ReplyDelete"You're apart of absolutely everyone and everything."
ReplyDeleteRegardless of who you are, everyone is connected in one way or another. The feeling of "identify and belonging," can be both a positive or negative thing. An example would be when you saw how others treated Jeremy as he walked through the carnival; they gave him looks as if he was different from everybody else, but they still connected with him, even in a negative context.
He continues on telling Lindsey that she doesn't believe him because she has a blind spot, which refers to isolation, and how if you can't overcome it (like his grandparents)then you are going to stay like that for the rest of your life. You won't be able to live your life as you should, because you can't have an honest conversation with someone.
I agree with what Sam says that: "People should be able to accept others and like them for their unique qualities." That describes Jeremy quite well. How he looks different from others, and how Lindsey is able to accept the way he is and talk to him naturally, as if he isn't different from others. The sense of belonging, bonding with other people is what makes us happy.
After watching the short clip from the film, it was clear that the main character was a victim of society being quick to judge others based on appearances. The film expresses the idea that people generally shun others who are different to themselves; such as race, gender, religion or disabilities. The contrast of the main character walking through a happy setting (the carnival), yet his feelings of negativity due to being judged by the regular people emphasises the feeling of separation and alienation he suffers.
ReplyDeleteThe film "Powder" once again links to the theme of "No man is an Island". Jeremy informs his friend that we are all connected and a part of everything. I found it ironic that even though he was someone who was separated from the public and society in general, he still had the mindset that everyone and everything on this planet is connected
TASK #2 (sorry so late!!)
ReplyDeleteI agree that people, at some stages of their life, can feel isolated and separated from everyone else. In the short film it is clear that Jeremy is looked at differently, based on his appearance. As this can be the case in everyday life, if people could learn to put them self in the shoes of the others they would be better trained to not do that. As Jeremy explains that people can feel separate from others simply based on image the fact is that we are all connected. Being human beings is essentially what creates the instant connection. Unfortunately there are some people that will generally be inconsiderate of their fellow mankind’s feelings. This could be based that some of us just don’t think before acting. I liked how Jeremy was on of those people who are not greatly affected by what others may think. He knows that he is connected to them in someway which connects with the idea of 'No man is an island'