My First Conk from Malcolm X Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

My First Conk from Malcolm X - Essay Example Blacks thus degrade their natural bodies without realizing that such degradations are embarrassing as Malcolm says that it seems foolish to see women having green and pink wigs to look like whites. Moreover, none of the blacks are ever thinking of gaining similar education or intelligence as that of the whites (Malcolm, 131). Conked hair and wigs illustrates that blacks have been brainwashed because even in the modern world, most blacks still feel inferior to the whites. Blacks are always ready to endure the pain of conk hair even after knowing that it does not make a black person more adorable. This is based on the argument by Malcolm that no woman will admire a man based on his hair appearance no matter how well the conk is; it does not add any value to the man (Malcolm, 136). In conclusion, before Malcolm realized that conk hair was a degradation of his natural body, he was willing to endure the pain to look like the whites but after he discovered that blacks had been brainwashed to think they are inferior to the whites, he has never had a conk (Malcolm, 141). All black individuals need to do as Malcolm did and instead of trying to be like the whites, they should instead study hard to better than the

Playing God

Playing God Playing God What is science? In the nineteenth century many believed it was attempting to play God. During this era new scientific discoveries in Europe were immense, and controversy over them was extreme. Not only did this new movement challenge the principles of Christianity but the belief in God. â€Å"Mary Shelleys Frankenstein through Victor Frankensteins perilous journey shows the destruction behind mans thirst for scientific knowledge and the ethical reasons as to why man should not play God (cite).† Victor Frankenstein attempts to go beyond human bounds and undertake in the greatest mistake of his life. â€Å"Victors experiment created in the name of science holds the key to which Victor believes is his future success (cite).† â€Å"The Accomplishment of his toils† is described as a wretched male figure formed from the corpses of others (Frankenstein, 34). Through his efforts, Frankenstein brings this figure to life, and his desire to succeed and discover impel him to play God. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that [he] desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied [him] (22) (cite.) However, Frankenstein is so deeply captivated with bringing about life that he fails to recognize the moral affects the creature will have on society, and most importantly that there could possibly be an explanation we cant create life unnaturally or be immortal. After the completion of his experiment, Frankenstein begins to recognize some of the consequences when he states, â€Å"how can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pain and care I had endeavoured to form?(34) (cite). Is it not irresponsible and foolish to create life from death, while what is alive is not fully comprehended? When Frankenstein saw his creation and admitted his dissatisfaction, some may ask why he would create such a monster knowing it would definitely not fit into society. The clear explanation would be he fears his own death, thus trying to obtain the knowledge of life to prevent it. â€Å"Frankensteins scientific pursuit is for his selfish means, not for the betterment of society.† Frankenstein remarks by saying, â€Å"The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind† (34). â€Å"The novel goes on to prove this could be no farther from the truth. By simply addressing the issue that some scientists may be ‘erroneously directed, Frankenstein shows he is considering the ulterior motives of his plans. He is recognizing that his motives may not be for the ‘advantage of man kind, and that this would be simply a bi-product of his creation.† Frankenstein also fails to realize what society would think of his creature and how the creature would be affected by the general public. The creature is sent out into the world with the temperament of man, but entirely lacking the guidance and nurturing that all creatures need. This role playing of God is not what man was intended for, and children are made of a sperm and egg, not the hands of man. Who could handle the responsibility of controlling life? Only a Divine Power could control such an intricate process, and is a responsibility no person could endure. Victor takes many simple things for granted in his life, which are symbolized through the monster. I am alone and miserable: man will not associate with me; but one as deformed and horrible as myself would not deny herself to me (129). All the monster requests is someone to share his life with, to live happily, and be loved; and through these pleasures the monster witnesses happiness. Victors scientific pursuit interferes with his life and ruins his happiness. He loses the desire for companionship because of his endeavors, and though Elizabeth longs for his return, he is too engaged in his work. Frankenstein has an opportunity to be happy, but the monster is never given the chance. â€Å"This presents Shelleys argument that when you allow things such as science to get in the way of your true needs, such as love, you will not live a life worth living. Frankenstein and his monster are both miserable because they both live their life without love.† He solved the most incomprehens ible question, he reached the peak of scientific understanding, he accomplished his goals, yet he is miserable. â€Å"For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart† (42). Shelley purposely lets Frankenstein accomplish his goal, but she makes a point that if the scientific knowledge of life cant bring happiness then no scientific knowledge can. Victor is so infatuated with completing his task and achieving fame that he fails to realize the lasting affects or consequences of his breakthrough. Shelley makes a valid argument that in many ways, we would all be better off without complex scientific thought: â€Å"Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow (38). Victor advises Walton by declaring, â€Å"Seek happiness in tranquility and avoid ambition, even if it be only the apparently innocent one of distinguishing yourself in science and discoveries (200). This passage evidently discusses Victors selfishness in fulfilling his objective. Shelley argues that scientists who are only seeking fame and fortune do not consider the long term effects and will be considered notorious.

Ancient Indian Architecture :: Papers

Ancient Indian Architecture The Science of Architecture and Civil Construction was known in Ancient India as Sthapatya-Shastra. The word Sthapatya is derived from the root word Sthapana i.e. 'to establish'. The technique of architecture was both a science and an art, hence it is also known as Sthapatya-kala, the word Kala means an art. From very early times the construction of temples, palaces, rest houses and other civil construction was undertaken by professional architects known as Sthapati. Even during the Vedic times, there existed professionals who specialized in the technique of constructing chariots and other heavy instruments of war. These professionals have been referred to in the Rig Veda as Rathakara which literally means 'chariot maker'. The excavations of the ruins at Mohenjodaro and Harrappa (today in Pakistan) proved the existence of a developed Urban civilization in India. The Indus valley civilization is dated around 3000 B.C. Thus since the last 5000 years. India has had an urban civilization. The existence of an urban civilization presumes the existence of well developed techniques of architecture and construction. These techniques would no doubt have had been systematically stated in record books for transmitting them to the later generations as well for being used as reference media for actual construction. Unfortunately, as far as the Indus Valley civilization goes no such records have been preserved either as rock edicts, manuscripts, etc., or in folk tales and legends. But the fact that cities on the scale of Mohenjodaro had been constructed bear testimony to the existence of a systematized and highly developed technique of architecture 5000 years ago. But in the later ages, from about the 7th century B.C., we have both literature references as well as archeological evidences to prove the existence of large urban civilizations in the Ganges Valley. Like in most other sciences, even remotely connected with religion, in architecture also the scientific ideas and techniques have been integrated with philosophy and theology. This was so as the majority of the large constructions were temples.

Obstacles

Even with the aided eyesight, It was still hard to see In lass, and I was often forced to sit In the front row, away from my group of friends. Being unable to see as everyone else caused me to believe I wasn't as good as everyone else, and my school work was deemed unsatisfactory. I refused to talk or answer questions In class, and that habit has stuck with me to this day. Although my eyesight will remain Inadequate until It can be surgically fixed, I was able to overcome It In the last few years.I excel In honors and AP classes, earning AS and Bi's, and I have been able to maintain a steady social life. Because of contacts, I gained a ewe level of self-esteem that allowed me to become more open to people and less introverted. I'm no longer afraid to speak in class, although it's still sometimes necessary to move myself to the front of the class to see well. At first, being almost legally blind was an enormous burden, and it takes wide shoulders to carry such an encumbrance.Recently, my eyesight hasn't been too much of a hindrance, but its trouble always makes its appearance known when I play volleyball. Being a Libber/ Defensive Specialist, my job is to pass the balls directly to my setter or close enough where she can get them. This is one of the hardest Jobs on the court, and it's even more difficult because of my eyesight. It is nearly impossible for me to Judge distances because I have little depth perception, and it has become increasingly challenging to see exactly where the ball is going.This makes it hard to pass at times, and can often result in a bad play or even a missed point. My greatest fear is being a disappointment to someone, and when this happens, I feel like I'm letting my team and my coach down. My inability to see has crippled both me and my volleyball career, but my determination can help me overcome this adversity. Through practice and willpower, I will improve my skills as a libber, even if my eyesight hinders me more often than not.I c hoose to become better for myself, and to prove to myself and others that my dedication Is stronger than my failures. I refuse to let my disability to get the best of me, In school, volleyball, and my relationships with friends and family. People will always tell you that things will get better, and I'm here to shine some truth on that statement. It won't happen on Its own, however. To achieve happiness or some other goal, you must work diligently to overcome anything In your ay, no matter how tall the mountain Is o how wide the ocean you have to cross.The only way to get across Is to keep going. Especially in sports and school. In class and my social life. Even with the aided eyesight, it was still hard to see in class, and I was often forced to sit in the front row, away from my group of friends. Answer questions in class, and that habit has stuck with me to this day. Although my eyesight will remain inadequate until it can be surgically fixed, I was able to overcome it in the las t few years. I excel in honors and AP classes, earning As and Bi's,Recently, my eyesight hasn't been too much of a hindrance, but its trouble always Specialist, my Job is to pass the balls directly to my setter or close enough where she and others that my dedication is stronger than my failures. I refuse to let my disability to get the best of me, in school, volleyball, and my relationships with friends some truth on that statement. It won't happen on its own, however. To achieve happiness or some other goal, you must work diligently to overcome anything in your way, no matter how tall the mountain is o how wide the ocean you have to cross. The only way to get across is to keep going.

My Thoughts On Ethnicity and race Essay

Race and ethnicity is a very interesting topic to think about. The distinction between race and ethnicity is not always clear to a lot of people. To me race is your physical appearance and ethnicity is your cultural background. My race is white but my ethnicity is Irish and scottish. Although my race is white and someone who is polish might also be white our cultures are not the same. When you are asked to specify race/ethnicity on a form i think it is not fair because there are thousands of things you could potentially be that dont neccesarily fit into the small choice of boxes they give you. I think a lot of people don’t know the difference because race and ethnicity are often listed together leading people to think that they are the same thing I don’t think race and ethnicity should be an issue. Any one person no matter what background they are from was born and will die just the same. It is natural for people to want to group themselves with others who look, speak or behave in similar patterns. Essentially humans are animals and most animals are more comfortable with the familiar. Athough it is natural to group ourselves organically in this way, i dont think having to catogorize yourself into a group on forms and surveys is ever going to help anything. Throughout my life I’ve had a lot of contact with many different ethnicities and races. I went to school where the i was not part of the majority. I was one of the few white people in my class and it was a big issue for me then because being the minority i was treated differently. I was frequently called â€Å"the white girl† by my classmates. At first it bothered me but I became more comfortable. I think being the minority in school helped me learn how to get along with people from different backgrounds. My ability to get along with almost anyone i can attribute to my experience in school. I have also gained a soft spot for anyone getting treated differently for their race or ethnicity. I have heard friends and family make remarks about race but it isnt often that they are positive. A nearby neighborhood is going through a gentrification. The rents in the area have incresed leading people in the area to move into my neighborhood. The people moving in are mostly black and hispanic. Many people are attributing the rise in crime in the area to the people that have been migrating in. Before this migration the neighborhood was mostly Italian, Irish and german. I dont know what to think about this development but i hear a lot of predjudiced things being said that i dont agree with. I think most negative comments come from learned steriotypes. These things can be learned from family, friends or even the media. Many people have the potential to be predjudiced to a certain degree but for the most part i think it is a learned behavior. I believe in the future as races and ethnicities become more and more mixed that prejudice will decrese drastically. Any advantages of stressing these racial and ethnic issues i believe is to try to be fair. One of these advantages is the government requires some companies and schools to hire/accept a certain quota of minorities. This is good because it gives a lot of people opportunities that they might not have gotten because of someone being prejudiced against them. I also think it could be a litte unfair because someone more qualified might not get a spot because of these quotas. I think how you turn out socially, economically, and morally is attributed to your family. If you are from a rich family you are born knowing what having money is like and how to manage it. If you are born poor it is much more difficult to move out of the cycle of poverty. It is because of this that some people see minority communities in a bad light but i just think they are stuck in the cycle of povery. Minority families not so long ago were kept down by racism. Most politicians are prodominantly white at the moment. Once politics become more diverse i think the balance of wealth will begin to shift and ethnicity/race will become less important. Ethnicity and race is a topic of great interest to many people. It affects our laws, advertizing and a plethora of other things. I personally dont feel like it should matter at all what you are on the outside or what culture you have. We are all people and i hope one day that everyone can just treat everyone the same regardless of race or ethnicity.

The detective genre Essays

The detective genre Essays The detective genre Essay The detective genre Essay His most famous feature is his intelligence, which he demonstrates very modestly. He always presents his deductions with an air of understatement: There is no mystery, my dear madam. As Holmes listens to Helen Stoners story in The Speckled Band, the same quiet confidence and ability to encourage and reassure in very few words is apparent. He talks very little compared to his visitor, but has the ability to listen completely attentively to every detail of her description, Leaning back in his chair with his eyes closed Sherlock Holmes tends to have a great deal of concentration and imagination as he questions Helen Stoner and contemplates the situation, as he has a fair idea of the real events of the story before he leaves his room. The detective work is done within his mind and his visit to the scene of the crime is really only to confirm what he has already deduced. Sherlock Holmes is a hard working, observant character, unlike the police, the public had lost faith in the police and it was down to Doyle to make Sherlock Holmes a detective who could actually continuously unravel clues, solve crimes and build public hope. The other great appeal of the compilation of stories is that the modern reader sees a real historical period of living, which has now passed by. As readers like to see life in olden days, Doyle represents this brilliantly in his stories. In The Speckled Band there is the reference to the dogcart in which Victorians travelled around in, to the attire of Helen Stoner when she visits Holmes. She raised her veil as she spoke and we could see that she was indeed in a pitiable state of agitation, her face all drawn and gray, with restless, frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features and figure were those of a woman of thirty, but her hair was shot with premature gray, and her expression was weary and haggard. The reference to the veil shows the audience that something as gone wrong, as people only tend to wear veils either if your getting married or if someone has died as its tradition to wear such garments.

Personality Analysis of the film Mr. Mom essays

Personality Analysis of the film Mr. Mom essays The comedy film Mr. Mom stars Michael Keaton who plays Jack Butler, a recently laid-off Dad who must stay at home with his kids while his wife begins a new job. Jack must learn to deal with his new role as a household husband, accept his wifes new role as the breadwinner, and balance the identity transformations that come along with a life change. The films introduction reads: Jack and Caroline Butler are perfectly happy with their roles in life...until a layoff makes him a househusband and her a working wife! And while she wrangles with charts, graphs, and an all-to-eager-to-be wrangled boss, he has to contend with their hyper kids, a ravenous vacuum cleaner, an angry washing machine, and an oversexed neighbor! From late nights in the boardroom to lonely nights in the bedroom, the biggest challenge for both Jack and Caroline is learning to trust one another with their reversed roles...(MGM, 1983) Jack is a typical forty-something male struggling to maintain his identity, and to do so, he uses a variety of defense mechanisms to relieve his internal anxiety. Jack has many concrete beliefs on gender roles, and it is difficult for him to overstep his masculine boundaries. The theories of Freud and Erikson can be applied to Jacks situation and actions throughout the film. In the text, Personality Theories, the author identifies the defense mechanism theory by Freud as procedures that ward off anxiety and prevent our conscious perception of it (Engler, 1999, p.50). There are nine dominant defense mechanisms, and Jack Butler uses many of them during the course of the film. He had just learned of his job loss when he first uses a mechanism. Jack began rationalizing with his co-workers to help himself and the others feel better. He said to his co-workers, when your down, your not necessarily out, and keep that sense of ...

5 Adjective Stacks, and How to Level Them

5 Adjective Stacks, and How to Level Them 5 Adjective Stacks, and How to Level Them 5 Adjective Stacks, and How to Level Them By Mark Nichol When a noun stack a precarious pileup of nouns is itself used to modify yet another noun, it is transformed into an adjective stack, which is just as hostile to clarity. The keyword in this case is relax: Shift the anchoring noun to precede the stack, and introduce prepositions as needed. (And insert hyphens to link words in phrasal adjectives). 1. â€Å"The lack of a secure transfer may hamper computer security incident response efforts.† The phrase â€Å"computer security incident response efforts† is just too complex: The formula for a solution is â€Å"The lack of a secure transfer may hamper efforts to respond to computer-security incidents, but â€Å"efforts to respond† is a case of a smothered verb; responses will do: â€Å"The lack of a secure transfer may hamper responses to computer-security incidents.† 2. â€Å"The company has vast experience providing information-systems security-program management support.† This sentence, with a five-word modifying phrase, is a formidable challenge, but just break it down: The noun is support, so relocate that immediately after the verb and follow it with the appropriate preposition. But â€Å"information-systems security-program management† is still unwieldy, so rinse and repeat: After the preposition, insert â€Å"program management† and another preposition, followed by the remaining phrasal adjective â€Å"security program† and the new anchoring noun, security: â€Å"The company has vast experience providing support for program management in information-systems security.† 3. â€Å"The Hong Kong artist revolutionized the Asian toy collectors’ market.† It’s unclear whether the market in question is for collectors of Asian toys or toy collectors who are Asian. Assuming that the former option is correct, when you relocate market to follow the verb, move collectors’ with it, then retain the adjective-noun pairing â€Å"Asian toys†: â€Å"The Hong Kong artist revolutionized the collectors’ market for Asian toys.† 4. â€Å"They met on behalf of the proposed redwood national park idea.† A revision of this sentence involves transforming the adjective proposed to the noun proposal and jettisoning the noun idea in favor of the verb create. However, while the new version â€Å"They met on behalf of the proposal to create a national park in the redwoods† is clearer than the original, it’s too wordy: Try simplifying it to â€Å"They met to discuss creating a national park in the redwoods.† 5. â€Å"Seventy-five-year-old US Supreme Court chief justice William Rehnquist was appointed by Ronald Reagan.† This style of adjective stacking, in which readers wade through a phalanx of descriptive terms to get to a person’s name, is more common in journalism than in other forms of writing, but no matter where it appears, it’s ripe for relaxation. Sometimes it’s appropriate to split the stack: â€Å"Seventy-five-year-old William Rehnquist, chief justice of the Supreme Court, was appointed by Ronald Reagan.† Often, however, it’s best to place the name the anchoring noun first, and let all the other information fall where it may: â€Å"William Rehnquist, 75, chief justice of the Supreme Court, was appointed by Ronald Reagan.† (This treatment of age is according to The Associated Press Stylebook, the guideline of record for American journalism, which generally spells out only numbers below ten. In another context, the subject’s age, spelled out unless it’s 101 or more, might be mentioned in a subsequent sentence or even omitted.) Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:100 Exquisite AdjectivesHow Long Should a Paragraph Be?Capitalizing Titles of People and Groups

Contemporary Corporate Governance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Contemporary Corporate Governance - Essay Example From the research it can be comprehended that governance refers to governing someone with the help of some specified system, policies and principles. Thus corporate governance can be described as the principles, specified processes, policies and systems which are used to govern a company. The principles of corporate governance acts as the guidelines which are used to control the activates of the company so that it can it can achieve its objectives at the same time it can also add value to the organisation in such a way so that the stakeholders can be benefited in long run. Thus corporate governance helps the management to operate in such a way so that not only the shareholders but also the other investors, employees, customer and the society as a whole can be benefited from the actions of the company. The basic premise behind the principles of corporate governance is to enable the organization to conduct its activities with fairness, maintain transparency in its operations and transa ctions, disclose all the relevant information, comply with all the rules, regulations and laws, being responsible accountable to all its stakeholders and to maintain the code of ethics while conducting its activities. Practice of ethical activities is an important part of the corporate governance. Good corporate governance enables the company to achieve investors’ confidence and achieve goodwill in the industry. Thus corporate governance is not only important for the stakeholders but also for the company too. (Thomson, 2009). OECD has described corporate governance as a system through which companies and other business organisations can be controlled as well as directed. Corporate governance helps to setup a structure as per which the responsibilities and the rights of the various members of the companies like the board of directors, employees, shareholders etc can be specified. Corporate governance set the rules, regulations and the processes of decision making regarding the activities of the company. The corporate governance helps the company in setting up the companies objectives and goals and also enable the company assess its performance and helps in achieving them. Corporate govern

Project Proposal. What strategies have proven most successful in Essay

Project Proposal. What strategies have proven most successful in getting the writer an interview - Essay Example A resume is a vital marketing tool. It enlightens a prospective employer everything concerning a person and what one is capable of bringing to the profession. It is also an opening for them to evaluate ones language, writing, and proficiency in presentation. While the standards of a resume alone will not make certain that one is selected, a resume that is well developed and that markets one as a viable candidate can in the long run establish whether one will be shortlisted for an interview. Introduction The aim of this project is to analyze concerning why it is fundamental to comprehend what companies look for in cover letters and resumes. It is also of significance to make out what to write when making a resume in order to be considered for a job opening. The majority of resumes are only reviewed for a maximum of 10 seconds prior to being disqualified (Block & Betrus, 1997). On this paper, I will illustrate systematically the way in which companies review and choose prospective cand idates for a job interview based on the quality of the resume. Discussion The project will be based on perception approach, which it will offer arguments in its favor, beginning with the most important to the least important. The points to be delivered will be: The significance of writing a resume that is successful Comparison and contrasting of the disparity between a hardcopy resume and an online resume The major points to consider when writing a resume I will investigate concerning why it is essential to understand what companies are seeking in cover letters and resumes. I will also explore the disparities involving a hard copy resume and a resume from the Internet. In addition, I will investigate the strategies which have proven most successful in getting the writer an interview. The reason why I chose this topic is because I am interested in learning how organizations make decisions when evaluating a resume. I will also compared and contrast the disparities involving a resume i n  hard copy form and a resume in electronic form. I am planning to use books from the public library, DeVry online library, magazines, journals and the Internet. At the conclusion of this project, I will have a better comprehension of the significance of creating a resume that is admirable in order to be successful when applying for a job position. What strategies have proven most successful in getting the writer an interview? It is obvious that everyone has heard of the expression first impressions are lasting ones. Well ones resume is the initial meeting involving an individual and a potential employer more frequently now than ever (Bennett, 2005). Therefore, in what manner does one want to be remembered: Craggy and unorganized; orderly and structured; lengthy and lackluster; or precise and remarkable? Organizations do not have the time to interview all candidates that are concerned with the job. If they did, there would be no organization to work for. Hiring managers employ an elimination process, which is resumes. Resumes inform an employer a great deal regarding an individual. Where one has been, where one is and where one is headed. Nevertheless, the details ought to be given in brief and clearly. One only has limited moments to persuade the hiring manager that his/her resume is worthy of additional

The Inherent Paradox of Garveys Black Nationalism Research Paper

The Inherent Paradox of Garveys Black Nationalism - Research Paper Example It is as if the movement known as â€Å"Garveyism† was blind to the consequences of its ideas outside the narrow aim of promoting the interests of one group of black people, namely those who are able and willing to migrate to Africa and engage in some kind of post-colonial â€Å"redemption† which will make good all the pain and suffering that black people endured in the past from slavery and discrimination. This paper examines three articles from the early twentieth century, all of which are written by black men, and which demonstrate this curious blindness to the colonialist ways and means that they have chosen for their movement. The first article, Marcus Garvey’s â€Å"Report of the UNIA Delegation to Liberia† of 1924 deals with the disappointment experienced when black leaders visited Liberia to view progress on the setting up of a new, non-colonial state for people of color. The gist of the article is outrage at the way a project very dear to black pe ople has been usurped by the business interests of powerful white corporations. One of the most striking features is the way that Garvey urges his people to respond, in particular by resisting the â€Å"bullies† France and England: â€Å"It is either that somebody must take a man’s stand for what is right, or play the part of a coward in front of the bully.† (Garvey Report, 1924). Alain Locke argues that Garvey’s report is a manifestation of the spirit of the New Negro, wherein a new brand of internationalism aimed to unite the scattered Negro population of the world (Locke 270). In addition, the strong opposition of the UNIA to the recurring pressures of colonial interest, especially in the acquisition of land for the economic activities of colonial powers, can be seen as another manifestation of the New Negro, wherein the American Negro, as represented by the Garvey as the leader of the UNIA, partakes in the future development and rehabilitation of the African homeland (Locke 270). That may be the reason why the UNIA has been reiterating its right in the colonization of Liberia, for a part of the New Negro; they would wish to lead an example in establishing a Negro homeland away from the restrictive conditions of colonial societies. In addition, this report also proves as a reflection of the growing aspirations of black economic nationalism (Dosset 119), wherein the UNIA would like to assert the economic independence of Liberia as part of its â€Å"redemption of Africa:† free from colonial economic interests and relying on black self-sufficiency. The second article to be analyzed in this paper is the speech of Marcus Garvey, dated August 28, 1924. This speech was actually addressed one day after the delegation of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA—whom Marcus Garvey himself founded) reported their findings regarding the negotiations of their colonization of the Republic of Liberia.

Reflective log on the six topics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Reflective log on the six topics - Essay Example In reflecting on the history of crime control, the policies of the government and the calls for reforms from citizens have played a dynamic role in shaping crime control and policing. One issue in attempting to explicate a history of crime control in the United Kingdom is that crime statistics were not kept before 1805 and thus all endeavours to reconstruct the state of crime before then must be gathered from, at times, shady court records (Emsley 204). The genesis of modern crime control is often attributed, by most Whig historians, to the establishment of the Metropolitan Police in 1829 by then Home Secretary Sir Robert Peel (Sharpe 6). The traditional historical account suggests that this was prompted by the rising rates of crime throughout London and other increasingly urbanized areas in the north and midlands, and the perceived outmoded inadequacy of the previous system of parish constables and watchmen, which had shown its impotence in such situations as the Gordon Riots in 1780 (Emsley 211). The elevation of crime control measures from primarily local and discretionary mechanisms to centralized and homogenous is a general trend that is in part due to the g rowth of London and other large cities, and the attendant concerns of urban populism mandated greater national implementation of crime management techniques (Emsley 226). One possible explanation for this is that urban environments present a more complex and interconnected social dynamic, which can more easily breakdown with more disastrous results, than in the more agrarian and rural milieu that dominated Great Britain in centuries prior. Rather than focusing on the dozens of crime control theories that populate handbooks and research journals, some attention should be paid to the nature of crime control theory itself and how it is established. One of the difficulties in generating sound theories of crime control is in

Social research method--（traditional chinese medicine and Essay

Social research method--ï ¼Ë†traditional chinese medicine and acupunctureï ¼â€° - Essay Example In contrast, a quantitative research done on the same subject will tend to use pre-determined categories experienced, pre-studied, or identified by prior research. In contrast, qualitative research does not have to use pre-determined categories formulated by the research based on researcher’s prior experience. The researcher can rely on participants’ descriptions of the â€Å"ways in which patients taking antihypertensive drug balance reservations against reasons for taking them†. Qualitative research is appropriate for the study because the information needed for the study will not require statistical procedures or other means of quantification (Straiss and Corbin 1998, p. 10-11). Appropriateness of research design. As described by Benson and Britten (2007, p. 1), the research design is â€Å"qualitative study using detailed interviews†. Cresswell (2007a, p. 20) calls this design as the â€Å"narrative design† of qualitative research. In my interpretation of the Benson and Britten (2007) write-up, the authors probably used semi-structured interview. This is highly appropriate considering that the objective of the research is â€Å"to describe the ways in which patients taking antihypertensive drug balance reservations against reasons for taking them† (Benson and Britten 2007, p. 1). Meanwhile, Cresswell (2007b, p. 6-10) identified the narrative design or approach as one of the five approaches that are frequently used in qualitative research. According to Cresswell (2007b, p. 6-10), the five designs or approaches frequently used are the narrative, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnographic, and case study approaches or research design. Holstein and Gubrium (1997, p. 113) had described the use of interviews in qualitative research as a way of generating data on how people view their life. By extension, it follows

The International Business Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

The International Business Environment - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that in the present state of the global economic situation, the concept of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has attracted significant attention both domestically and globally. As such, FDI has been regarded as a vital element to consider in evaluating the economic development of countries around the world, particularly developing ones. Different empirical studies reveal that the relationships that prevail between economic development and FDI are multifaceted. From a macro aspect, FDI indicators represent high productivity, employment situation, technological spillovers, and competitiveness. For the less developed countries, FDI represents access to international currencies and markets, higher exports, and a source of financing. Research shows that FDI plays a vital role in promoting local firms. The efforts that countries make to help them attract FDIs result from the positive influences they have in an economy. FDI boosts productivity, tran sfer of technology, know-how, managerial skills, unemployment reduction, international production systems, and access to foreign markets. In this case, FDIs should be considered as ways of realizing technological spillovers, which have the significant contribution to the growth of an economy as opposed to the case of national investments. This practice leads to advanced technologies’ spillovers to local enterprises. Conversely, FDI has the potential of crowding out local firms, leading to negative impact on the economic development of a country. Various researchers stipulate that the positive effects associated with FDI are few and that most of the resulting effects are negative. Though FDI is associated with particular positive effects, the relationship that prevails between them and economic development are inconsistent. The potential negative or positive effects resulting from FDI on an economy are also dependent on the sectors nature, in which an investment will be carrie d out. For instance, the benefits of mining and agricultural sectors are limited.

Social research method--（traditional chinese medicine and Essay

Social research method--ï ¼Ë†traditional chinese medicine and acupunctureï ¼â€° - Essay Example In contrast, a quantitative research done on the same subject will tend to use pre-determined categories experienced, pre-studied, or identified by prior research. In contrast, qualitative research does not have to use pre-determined categories formulated by the research based on researcher’s prior experience. The researcher can rely on participants’ descriptions of the â€Å"ways in which patients taking antihypertensive drug balance reservations against reasons for taking them†. Qualitative research is appropriate for the study because the information needed for the study will not require statistical procedures or other means of quantification (Straiss and Corbin 1998, p. 10-11). Appropriateness of research design. As described by Benson and Britten (2007, p. 1), the research design is â€Å"qualitative study using detailed interviews†. Cresswell (2007a, p. 20) calls this design as the â€Å"narrative design† of qualitative research. In my interpretation of the Benson and Britten (2007) write-up, the authors probably used semi-structured interview. This is highly appropriate considering that the objective of the research is â€Å"to describe the ways in which patients taking antihypertensive drug balance reservations against reasons for taking them† (Benson and Britten 2007, p. 1). Meanwhile, Cresswell (2007b, p. 6-10) identified the narrative design or approach as one of the five approaches that are frequently used in qualitative research. According to Cresswell (2007b, p. 6-10), the five designs or approaches frequently used are the narrative, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnographic, and case study approaches or research design. Holstein and Gubrium (1997, p. 113) had described the use of interviews in qualitative research as a way of generating data on how people view their life. By extension, it follows

Cultural Diversity in Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Cultural Diversity in Business - Essay Example In Brazil, the level of power distance is extremely high as compared to Denmark. This means, all the individual within the society of Brazil is not equal. Due to which, the less powerful members of the society or organization had to obey the rules and regulations of the powerful persons. As a result of which, the manufacturing unit of Brazil may face the problem of interpersonal conflicts among its members. This is because; all the members of the organization may not follow the orders or policies of the more powerful individual and it might lead to clashes or quarrel. Due to which, the rate of retention of the employees might get reduced resulting in attrition or lockouts. This might not only hinder the image of the organizational unit but also hamper its prosperity in long run. Other than power distance, the masculinity is also quite high as compared to Denmark. As a result of which the female members of the organizational unit of Brazil may not be offered equal rights and privilege s and that may create conflicts among other members. Due to which, their level of motivation and commitment of the female employees might get reduced that may hinder their productivity and performance. However, due to lack of performance of the female employees, the overall profitability of the organization reduces to a significant extent among many other rival players. Due to lack of equal rights, the interpersonal relationships among its members might get reduced that may hamper their performance and commitment level.

Visiting Miami †The city of Sun and Sea

Visiting Miami – The city of Sun and Sea Miami – The city of Sun and Sea Hello! Miami is a large, coastal metropolis that is located on the southeastern tip of Florida. Its subtropical climate, white sandy beaches and the nightlife that never ends make Miami a heaven for tourists and a place where the rich and famous loosen up. It is also home to a portion of the Everglades National Parkthat is a major tourist attraction of Florida. Today, Miami is a major business center and a leader in finance, commerce, culture, entertainment, fashion, arts and international trade. It has also been conferred the title of ‘America’s cleanest city’. Miami being a city that started with nothing is often described as the ‘only city of the world that started as a fantasy’. Whether you are into sports, beaches, salsa, shopping or adventure, you can enjoy this diverse paradise that is full of life any time of the year. Best season to visit Miami Miami is blessed with sunny days and breezy nights all year around. The peak tourist season is during the winter months from January to April when the weather is warm in Miami and cold in rest of the United States. Unlike other places, the crowd in Miami is not off-putting. Instead the continuous string of events and parties make the city a magical place. October to December is the shoulder season with pleasant temperatures. Hotels are available for a relatively lower price and this is a good time to visit. The summer months from May to September are off-season and this is when the days are scorching hot. Hence, the crowd is smaller and hotels cheaper. Irrespective of season, pack your sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suit, beach towel and you are ready to enjoy Miami. Highlights (Special things to do and experience in Miami) Rejuvenate in the sun kissed beaches of Miami. Whether it is the South beach, Sunny Isles, Haulover beach or the Crandon beach, you will find a beach that will be perfect for you. ‘See and be seen’ in South Beach, the world’s trendiest beach. Be a part of the electrifying nightlife of Miami. Relax in the beautiful Key Biscayne. Dive or snorkel in the turquoise blue waters of Emerald Reef and watch the marine life come to life in front of you. Sail in a boat, yacht or catamaran and admire the beautiful skyline of Miami from the waters. Take an airboat ride and enter a different world that is Everglades National Park. Amaze yourself with the city’s iconic skyline and beautiful views of Biscayne Bay from Downtown Miami. Take a lovely ride to Key West from Miami. Start your day with a delicious Cuban breakfast at Little Havana. Enjoy Brazilian cachaca cocktails with picture perfect views of Biscayne Bay at the Sunset Lounge, Miami Beach. Take the wheel on a NASCAR race track and feel the adrenaline at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Indulge in shopping at the Lincoln road mall, Miami Beach. Partake in the Carnaval on the Mile, a lively two day event celebrating Latin music, art and food. Enjoy what feels like an oversized block party in true Miami style. Soak up art of all kinds in the free Art Walks hosted in different areas of Miami. The biggest and most popular ones are held in Wynwood Arts District and the Design District. After all the fun in sun, unwind at the yoga classes held on the beach. Hotspots (Places to visit in Miami) Miami Beach South Beach: South Beach, popularly nicknamed as SoBe, is a neighborhood in the city of Miami. This is one beach that attracts people of all varieties. You will see beautiful people everywhere flaunting themselves. The beach often draws celebrities and it is also a popular spot for fashion photo shoots and hip clubs. Sophisticated and hot, South Beach defines cool! Lincoln Road: Lincoln Road is an eight-block long pedestrian walkway packed with shops, restaurants and cafes. It features the 1111 Lincoln Road parking garage, which is architecturally acclaimed for its unique appearance. Key Biscayne Island Key Biscayne: Your Miami holidays are incomplete without visiting the scenic and serene Key Biscayne that comprises of four different and beautiful beaches. This secluded island is a short drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway. Just six miles off the coast of Miami,this island is a peaceful paradise that feels a world away from the bustling urban center. It is the perfect place to unwind, relax and connect with Miami’s natural beauty. Crandon Park beach: It is the largest and most popular beach on Key Biscayne.It is more than just a beach as it offers beach volleyball courts, kayak rentals, eco-adventure tours and other activities. Crandon Tennis center and Crandon Golf Key Biscayne located here are open to public and home to annual world-class professional events. Bill BaggsCape Florida State Park: Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, the park includes Cape Florida Light (lighthouse), the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. The beach itself is listed as one of the ‘Top 10 beaches in America’. Virginia Key beach: The historic Virginia Key Beach is a beautiful and isolated beach just off the Rickenbacker Causeway which is the bridge between the mainland and Key Biscayne. Miami Seaquarium is located here. Miami Seaquarium: Miami Seaquarium is a marine-life entertainment park featuring eight marine animal shows and presentations. Lolita, the Killer Whale, bottlenose dolphins and Salty, the Sea Lion are some of the animals it is home to. Visitors are allowed to interact with dolphins or walk underwater among tropical fish for additional fees. Everglades National Park Everglades Alligator Farm: The Everglades is the third largest National Park in the Continental U.S and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Home to more than 2,000 alligators, the Everglades have been a part of Florida history for as long as Florida has had a history. A trip to Everglades Alligator Farm includes a thrilling airboat tour of the surrounding river of grass, a walking train around the farm to see alligators, crocodiles and exotic snakes. Shark Valley: Shark Valley is part of the Everglades and is a 45-minute drive from Miami. Rent a bike and travel the 15-mile loop that makes up Shark Valley. Get close to the wildlife here that includes alligators, ibis, raccoons, wood storks and spoonbills among others. If you want to play it safe, opt for the two hour tram tour led by trained naturalists. Downtown Downtown Miami:Located right in the heart of Miami between the busy Brickell area, the beaches and rest of the mainland, Downtown is the perfect place to start your night. The famous American Airlines Arena that is home to the ‘Miami Heat’ of NBA and the Adrienne Arsht Center well known for its Opera and Broadway shows are located in the Downtown. Of course for all the club goers, Miami downtown has some of the hottest and diverse clubs in the world. It is here that you can eat atthe finest restaurants, dance in the hottest clubs, admire the iconic skyline and lose yourself in the beautiful views of Biscayne Bay! Key west Island Key West: No Miami holidays are complete without a journey to the Island of Key West. It is a day trip from Miami city. The 150-mile drive to the Key West is one of the most scenic and great American road trips. Once you are in the island, visit the Mallory Square; take a glass-bottom boat ride visiting the coral reef and snorkel in the blue green crystal clear waters of the Key West. It is the southernmost point in the continental USA between Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The lovely drive is one the unique experiences you will have in Miami. Coconut grove Village west:It is a lovely bayside village situated on Biscayne Bay. Laze around the streets of the village consisting of sidewalk cafes, pretty galleries and interesting boutiques. Vizcaya museum and gardens: It is the former villa and estate of businessman James Deeringthat is located on Biscayne Bay in the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami. The architecture of this stunningly beautiful American villa was influenced by Veneto and Tuscan Italian Renaissance models. The vizcaya museum contains more than seventy rooms of distinctive architectural interiors decorated with numerous antiques, with emphasis on European art. The villa, museum and the extensive Italian Renaissance gardens altogether make it a charming place to visit. City of Sunny Isles Beach Sunny Isles Beach: With two miles of pristine, white sandy beaches facing the luxurious resorts, Sunny Isles Beach is considered Florida’s Riviera for good reason. Whether it’s lounging poolside in a fancy oceanfront cabana or sinking your toes in the sand, Sunny Isles Beach offers clean, un-crowded and relaxing beaches perfect for a romantic getaway. If you are looking for a quieter, relaxing vacation stay then this is the place to be. Watson Island Jungle Island: It is an interactive zoological park in Miami. One can see a combination of animal and bird life like lions, panthers, lemurs, orangutans, parrots, flamingos, kangaroos and many more. Interactive sessions are available for extra cost. Shopping in Miami Aventura Mall consists of top U.S stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, JCPenney and many more that sum up to more than 300 specialty retailers. Shop and chill at this mall which also features a variety of restaurants and a movie theater. A mix of upscale and casual shopping defines Miami International Mall, located near the airport and offering the favorite stores of locals. For luxury shopping head to the stylish village of BalHarbour featuring stores like Chanel, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Dolce Gabana and many more! You could also catch one of the many fashion events held at this place. Bayside Marketplace blends shopping with pleasure as national retailers share space with culturally distinctive merchandise. And it doesn’t stop at shopping as it offers great seafood and Latin restaurants, all overlooking the lovely Biscayne Bay. At Coconut Grove’s Cocowalk, shop in the sun and dance under the moon! This open-air shopping, dining and entertainment destination has the ambiance of a European town square. When the sun sets, Cocowalk heats up with live music, bars and restaurants. Street-smart shopping in Downtown is one of the delights of Miami. It is home to one of the nation’s largest jewelry districts and hundreds of retailers. Clothes, accessories, electronics, sporting goods, cameras, cosmetics- you name it, they sell it! Designer shopping on the streets of South Beach, whose Lincoln Road, Espanola Way and Ocean Drive stores provide a unique shopping experience, is a must do. In a place that offers souvenirs to gifts, books to jewelry, fashion to art, chocolate to cheese, you are bound to walk away with something special. How to reach Miami: Miami International Airport (MIA), located west of the city is an important hub for traffic between Europe, North America and South America. If you are travelling from one of the U.S cities, then Fort Lauderdale International Airport is a better choice. It is about 30 minutes north of Miami, smaller and less trafficked than MIA. Amtrak’s (train)Silver Service operates trains to Miami from New York, Washington D.C and other cities. Drive to Miami through its three main highways, I-95, I-75 and U. S. Highway 1. How to get around in Miami: Renting a car is a comfortable option to travel in Miami. It is advisable to do so from Miami International Airport as the city has only a few car rental companies. Hiring a Taxi too is a good option especially in North Miami Beach. South Beach Local bus service is one of the cheaper ways to get around in the area of South Beach. It runs every 10-15 minutes throughout the day, is air-conditioned, clean and safe. Metromover is a free mass transit train system in Miami. It serves Downtown Miami, Brickell, Park West and Omni neighborhoods. It s the best way to travel within Downtown Miami. Miami Hop-on Hop-off is another great way to visit the entire city as it covers major attractions like Downtown, Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and more. Top areas in Miami: South Beach: South Beach is more than just white sand beaches and art deco buildings. This is a perfect place to stay for anybody who is vacationing in Miami. From world-class boutiques, casual beachside dining to great nightlife, it is a hotspot in every way. Miami International airport: It is a fast-growing area with hotels and corporate offices. It is minutes away from several popular tourist attractions in Miami. Downtown Miami: Downtown with its iconic skyline, historic shopping arcades, dining options with variety of culinary styles and of course amazing views from everywhere is the most popular place in Miami. This is a place where work meets play. Little Havana:This Cuban neighborhood gives you the opportunity to enjoy the life of Cuba. It is a good place to stay for budget travelers as many Miami hotels are located here. Wake up and have the amazing Cuban breakfast, dance to salsa music that you keep hearing throughout the day from unseen sources, buy in one of the many street shops, eat to your heart’s content in Cuban restaurants and learn a little Spanish! That’s Little Havana for you. Coconut Grove: Coconut grove is a very pretty bayside village within the urban dynamic of Miami. It is the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood of Miami. It is filled with sidewalk cafes, galleries and boutiques. You can also relax in one of its many parks. Coral Gables: Coral Gables located southwest of Downtown Miami is one of the most desirable and old-fashioned neighborhoods in the area. Sunny Isles Beach: Have an opulent Miami holiday by staying in one of the finer resorts facing the Sunny Isles Beach. Relax in a spa or on the clean un-crowded beach with your loved ones. Bal Harbour:Balharbour is a village with upscale hotels and condos offering oceanfront views and resort spas in a quiet and relaxing environment. Apart from shopping and fine dining, the village also offers complimentary fitness classes on the beach for guests of local hotels. Key Biscayne: Surrounded by many attractions and a world in itself, Key Biscayne is away from the troubles of the mainland. Stay in one of the many ocean facing resorts located here to make your trip even more memorable. Homestead: Located close to Key Biscayne and Everglades National Park and home to the NASCAR race track, this place is fascinating and unique. Thank You!

Conversion Efficiency of Active Energy and Solar Energy Essay -- Solar

Conversion Efficiency of Active Energy and Solar Energy Solar technology already boasts a century of R&D, requires no toxic fuels and relatively little maintenance, is inexhaustible, and, with adequate financial support, is capable of becoming directly competitive with conventional technologies in many locations. These attributes make solar energy one of the most promising sources for many current and future energy needs. As Frank Shuman declared more than 80 years ago, it is "the most rational source of power." The average amount of solar energy arriving on top of the atmosphere is 1,330 watts per square meter. The amount reaching the earth’s surface is 10,000 times more than all commercial energy used annually. Until recently, this energy source has been too diffused and low intensity to capitalize for electricity. Solar energy is a renewable resource and is converted to electrical energy in two ways - using photovoltaic materials which generate an electrical potential when exposed to light or using a thermal process that uses the energy from the sun to heat a working fluid in an electricity generating cycle. Another way of looking at it is as passive and active solar energy. Now you might be wondering what is meant by active and passive, isn’t all transformation of energy active? Passive solar energy relates to systems that are relating to solar radiation and angles to define solar positions which work with heating and cooling systems. To generate the higher temperatures necessary to make steam to generate electricity, the sunlight must be concentrated. Solar thermal technology often uses reflectors, in the form of parabolic concentrators or flat mirrors, to focus the sun's rays onto a water-filled pipe, known as 'abso... ...veloped thin film technology is hydrogenated amorphous silicon. This is the material normally used in consumer applications, although it is used, but less frequently, in power modules. The efficiency of commercial amorphous silicon modules has improved from around 3.5 % in the early 1980's to over 7% currently. The most efficient modules are made with multiple layers of photovoltaic material, for instance three layer amorphous silicon modules with germanium added to two of the layers (a-Si/a-SiGe/a-SiGe) which have a record cell efficiency of 13.5 %. Other types of thin films can be made using polycrystalline silicon, cadmium telluride (CdTe), and copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS). Today's solar panels are made with silicon. The silicon usually has impurities, which limits its efficiency. Purifying a chemical is too expensive. For that reason, smaller is better.

Essay --

TheMedievalProject: Cathedrals Essay By Austin all rights reserved You may think today â€Å"Hey, I totally wonder sometimes what the Middle Ages Churches and Gothic Medieval Cathedrals where like. What were they important for? Were they Churches like the ones today? How long did it take to build? â€Å" Well that may be SOME of the questions you may have but you may have more. In this essay you're about to find out why the Medieval Gothic Cathedrals were so important for, and how much rule and and wide range of power they had over the people in the Middle Ages, and last but NOT least, the creative sublime (I’ll delete this comment later on if you see this but â€Å"sublime† is my own words not internet word) of the Gothic style windows of the Cathedral. First, the one I like most, the Gothic stain glass windows of the Gothic Cathedral. Stained glass is argued to an opinion or belief, one of the most important aspects of Gothic cathedrals. As its popularity rose, mainly during the mid 12th century, the increased existence of st ained glass presented large changes to the way the general residents were learning about the religion. The windows became illuminated optic (â€Å"Optic† is my own wording) talk of biblical stories, which may have had an even greater impact than the spoken word of the priest. In this research paper, I will be primarily focusing on the stained glass windows and architectural styles employed in five Gothic buildings in France, each having their own unique and worthy attention and characteristics to the development of stained glass windows. By looking at the architectural improvements shown in these structures built during the Gothic time frame, we are able to see the impact all over the place to itch for increase... ...ir work was complete. Lastly, a Gargoyle is a bizarre statue used to get water away from a building, when it rains. These figures spew out the collected water. Most Gargoyles were made a long time ago. A long time ago people believed that they scared away evil spirits. Many cathedrals have gargoyles. There are not very many Gargoyles made today. Now, most houses can use gutters to move water. There are not a lot of gargoyles in America, as most of them are in Europe. Now today, there are still over 900 Cathedrals standing today in our world thanks to our OLD generation masons! Today you wouldn’t find people building cathedrals anymore. You would find some being repaired but never built. Well technically, a tiny church can become a cathedral if a bishop uses it as his official church but other than that none are being built today that my research knows of.

Curious Incident of a Family Break Up

Curious incident of a family break up Mark Haddon expresses the importance of family relationships within society itself. He does this through the clear and perfect understanding of the deficiency and absence of love portrayed between his parents and himself. Christopher’s suffering of Aspergers syndrome is transparent towards his parents as they find it difficult to react to Christopher’s behavior.Both parents had to deal with Christopher’s persistent obsession with mathematics, numbers (prime numbers used throughout the beginning of every chapter) as their son is a single minded human being with and extraordinary talent faced upon factual data that only he can obtain as many cannot. Christopher’s mother is an important factor among his life as he is told a lie from his father about his mother passing from cancer. But in fact from the hard troubled arguments from the relationship of his parents towards each other, Christopher’s inability to deal wi th affection is a huge factor of why Mr. and Mrs.Boone are driven apart. Christopher does not understand how affection works, which would mean that Mr. and Mrs. Boone do not have a romantic relationship to begin with. If Mr. and Mrs. Boone do not show affection towards each other, it is not setting a very good example towards Christopher. When Christopher’s mother wrote him, she said,† We had a lot of arguments like that, and by the end we stopped talking to each other because we knew it would end up as an argument and go no where. I felt really lonely† (107). Mrs. Boone is giving an example of how she runs away from all her problems leading up to when she left Christopher.The stress of having to raise a child like Christopher drove her to leaving the family. Christopher can be difficult and irritating in many ways because he is unable to show how he feels towards his parents, so they never know how he is feeling. Also, he never knows how his parents are feeling. When Christopher's mother said, â€Å"Christopher, let me hold your hand, just for once. Just for me will you? I will hold it hard†(194). Christopher told her that he did not like holding hands. It proves that he has no knowledge of what love means and affection towards your family. Also, Mrs.Boone said, â€Å"I could not walk for one month, do you remember? Your father had to look after you. I remember looking at the two of you and seeing you two together and thinking how you were really different with him. You were a lot calmer, and it made me sad, because it made the think that you did not need me at all(108). This quote can be confusing, because it is portraying that Mrs. Boone as upset that Christopher did not need her, but yet she leaves the family because of the stress of her autistic child. Mrs. Boone has a confusing way of showing affection, leading Christopher of not having a very good example of a mother.The lack of communication between Mr. and Mrs. Boone and Chr istopher puts a tremendous amount of stress on the family because the Boone’s never know what Christopher may be thinking or wanting at that time. Mr. and Mrs. Boone has to adjust to his ways of communication making it difficult for other people to understand how he communicates. For example, when the policeman grabbed Christopher, but they were never meaning to harm him(8). Christopher thought that by the policeman grabbing him they were trying to hurt him, when only they were trying to get his attention.Also, Christopher does not understand the importance of communication which means that i does not mean a lot of him. The Boone’s do not always know Christopher’s needs and wants. This leads up to Mr. and Mrs. Boone fighting over their views of what Christopher wants. Mrs. Boone would get very stressed out about not knowing what Christopher wants and just basically give up. Christopher can be a difficult child because he can sometimes not know when it is time to stop, and that is what is making Mrs. Boone so stressed out. Christopher might think it is time to play when really Mr. and Mrs. Boone are wanting some quiet time to relax.Haddon persuades the important quality of Truth throughout the novel towards the direction of our society. Christopher’s obsession with truth is organized among the world through his perceptions on the basis. During the story as he feels secure, he needs order and certainty, and facts and logic provide this security. Christopher feels the need to be ‘scared’ and yet ‘shaky’ towards the things that didn’t happen which makes him feel insecure etc. ‘Metaphors’ are a language technique in which Christopher cannot understand. He believes metaphors bring lies towards society as they are false stories and fiction falls within the limits of lies.Christopher accepts ‘similes’ as this technique provides truthfulness and they also emphasize the appearance of what two things have in common. With the acceptation of hard facts within Christopher’s life he refuses to obtain the knowledge and believe of god and the afterlife. Christopher says that he ‘can’t tell lies’. This is the way he truthfully copes with life itself and the imaginary events which fill him with ‘the infinite number of things’. Christopher then pushes the boundaries of lying to himself through continuing the investigation when he told people for example his father he would stop.His father then tends to find out with the quote of â€Å"you knew exactly what you were doing†. During the novel we find out as well as Christopher that his mother is true in fact alive. This is a great impact among Christopher as he hates lying as he quotes â€Å"A lie is when you say something happened which didn’t happen. † Another quote is â€Å"I do not tell lies. Mother used to say that this was because I was a good person†¦i t is because I can’t tell lies. † The repetition and usage of the word ‘And’ creates a sense of comforting and secureness for Christopher as well as a few number of rituals.The usage of ‘And’ provides Christopher with the ability to recount every information or incident he has accounted. As for me it is annoying to read but the fact that Christopher has a good memory for speech is observed. One of the rituals Christopher obsesses with is the observation of cars on the way to school as he organizes them into red meaning good and brown and yellow meaning bad. He implies this to his normal day routine. So if he sees a red car he will have a good/normal day but if he sees a brown or yellow he knows his day isn’t going to go too well. Mr. Jevons asked me whether this made me feel safe, having things always in nice order and I said I did† The justification he gives for using these rituals is formed on the ‘scared’ and Ã¢â‚¬Ë œshaky’ responses which mean that his great need to impose order on a lack of a word is in use. Christopher believes telling the truth is an important aspect among lives as he is revealed that his father killed Wellington the dog and told him that his mother had passed which makes Christopher become very frightened of his father.Christopher flees in terror as he quotes â€Å"†¦he could murder me, because I couldn’t trust him, even though he said, ‘trust me’, because he had told a lie about a big thing† The composer achieves real aspects of telling the truth and telling a lie which happens on a normally daily basis. Christopher’s constant need for attention pushes the Boone’s apart because they have no time for themselves. Mr. and Mrs. Boone revolve their lives around Christopher’s needy lifestyle which led to them to spending every moment with Christopher. Mr.Boone says how he is going to get Christopher ready for his bath, change him, and get him ready for bed(115). This is an example of how he spends every moment revolving his life to Christopher’s need for help because of his disability. In the book, The Curious Case of the Dog in the Night-Time, Christopher display a long list of the things that his mother and father have to deal with on a daily basis with his disability(46). All of these things are responsibilities and other things that Mr. and Mrs. Boone have to keep on their minds through the day.Having an autistic child is like having a second job to Mr. and Mrs. Boone. Mr. Boone gives no attention to Mrs. Boone, because he is always pursuing his life towards the neediness of an autistic child. Mrs. Boone may the want attention from another male, leading her to putting all of her attention towards another lifestyle. This stressful lifestyle caused Mrs. Boone to leave and want to have another life of no worries or responsibilities. Also, Christopher says that he is nervous about his pare nts getting a divorce because they have a child with behavioral problems(45,46).This explains one of the reasons why Mrs. Boone wanted out of the family because she wants to have children that do not give her such a headache every single day. Christopher’s confidence of truthful matter, in logic and facts, does not defend him from the real society. His many efforts to pursue the truth of Wellington’s murder results in the discovery of his understanding with the world as it is based on a lie. Christopher also learns that although he likes to have things â€Å"in a nice order†, real life is often very deranged, and he cannot always control this.By the end of the novel the composer achieves Christopher’s balance as he returns to normal life, he is regained both parents and has the knowledge that he has coped in difficult circumstances. Mark Haddon achieves the novel with great aspects of this and portrays the actual concerns among a society. Mr. and Mrs. Boo ne would have a much more suitable relationship if they would set their priorities straight, and make time for each other to be able to go out and have a romantic night together. Obviously, they did not have a romantic relationship, so that could have driven Mrs.Boone away from the family, along with the difficult lifestyle of raising Christopher. In conclusion, Christopher lived a very spoiled lifestyle by being shown attention by his parents all his life. He could not help that he had to have attention shown towards him because of his disability, but it led to the miserable lifestyle between Mr. and Mrs. Boone. If they could have balanced out their schedules, Mr. Boone would not have had to lie to his child about his mothers death, when really she moved away while having an affair.

You Suck: A Love Story Chapter 11~13

Chapter Eleven Then, When They Woke Up â€Å"Oh my God, that stuff turned me completely orange.† â€Å"Not completely.† â€Å"I look like the Great Pumpkin.† â€Å"Good grief, Tommy, you do not.† Chapter Twelve Blood, Coffee, Sex, Magix – Not necessarily in That Order Just after sundown. They watched the coffee dripping out of the filter like they were distilling nitroglycerine and the slightest bit of inattention might cause an explosion. â€Å"It smells really good,† Jody said. â€Å"It's like I never noticed it before,† Tommy said. â€Å"You'd think it would smell sickening, since it's indigestible,† Jody said. The last time she'd taken a sip of coffee, her vampire system had rejected it so violently that she ended up convulsively dry-heaving on the floor, feeling like forks were twisting inside of her. â€Å"This might work,† Tommy said. â€Å"You ready?† â€Å"Ready.† He poured a tablespoonful or so of coffee into a glass cup. Then he uncapped one of the syringes that held William's blood and squirted a few drops into the coffee. â€Å"You first,† he said, swishing the cup around in front of her. â€Å"No, you,† Jody said. As good as the coffee smelled, the memory of her nausea held her back. Tommy shrugged and threw the coffee back like a tequila shooter, then set the cup down on the counter. Jody stepped back and snatched a tea towel off the fridge handle in preparation for the coffee's return trip. Tommy rolled his eyes, shuddered, then grabbed his throat and fell to the floor, twitching and choking. â€Å"Dying,† he croaked. â€Å"Suffering and dying.† Jody was barefoot and didn't want to stub her toe, so she pulled the kick to his ribs. â€Å"You suck, you know that.† Tommy rolled on the floor giggling, curling himself around her foot. â€Å"It works! It works! It works!† He sort of dog-humped her leg in rhythm and tugged at the hem of her robe. â€Å"You never have to be grumpy again!† Jody grinned. â€Å"Pour cups, grommet! Full cups.† Tommy climbed to his feet. â€Å"We don't even know the blood-to-coffee ratio yet.† â€Å"Pour!† Jody was in the fridge in an instant, grabbing another syringe. â€Å"We'll wing it.† The she heard the downstairs door open and spun on her heel. â€Å"William?† Tommy listened to the footfalls coming up the steps and shook his head. â€Å"Nope, too light.† They could hear the key fitting into the lock. â€Å"You said you didn't give her a key,† Jody said. â€Å"I said I didn't give her a key to the bedroom,† Tommy said. â€Å"Lord Flood, there's a stinky dead guy with a huge cat on your landing,† said Abby Normal as she came through the door. THE CHRONICLES OF ABBY NORMAL: Dedicated Servant of the Vampyre Flood I have been to the lair of the vampyre Flood. I am part of the coven! Kinda. Okay, back up. So I like slept till eleven, because we're on Christmas break, only it's called winter break now because Jesus is AN OPPRESSIVE ZOMBIE BASTARD AND WE DO NOT BOW DOWN TO HIS BIRTHDAY! At least not at Allen Ginsberg High School, we don't. (Go, Fighting Beatniks!) But it's all good, 'cause I'm going to have to get used to getting up later if I'm going to be a creature of the night. So, like first thing, I made some toast, and it burned, as black as my soul, and I was so bummed that my tears of despair fell like cold bits of crystal, to be destroyed on the unforgiving rocks of this miserable life. But then I saw that Mom had left a twenty out on the counter with a note: Allison (Allison is my day-slave name – my mom named me after some song by some Elvis guy, so I totally refuse to accept it), here's your lunch money, and please stop at Walgreens and pick up some RID shampoo for Ronnie's head lice. (Veronica is my sister, who is twelve and a total tumor on the ass of my existence.) So, I was like, Sweet! Starbucks! It took forever to pick what I was going to wear, and not just because I'd never rented an apartment before. The lightbulb burned out in my closet and we didn't have any extras, so I had to take everything out in the living room to look at it in the light. Like the song says, I wear black on the outside to reflect the black I feel on the inside, but OMG, it's impossible to tell one thing from another in a dark closet. Since it was going to be a business thing, I decided on my striped tights with my red PVC mini, my skull-and-crossbones hoodie, and my lime Converse All Stars. I went with just a plain stud in my nose, a barbell in my eyebrow, and a simple silver ring in my lip – understated and elegant. I carried my hot-pink biohazard messenger bag. Ronnie was all, â€Å"I wanna come with you, I wanna come with you,† but I pointed out that she was a scourge on humanity and that if she came along I would tell everyone on the bus she had lice, so she elected to stay home and watch toons. It was then that I ventured into the undiscovered country, and called the number that the vampyre Flood had given me. And the woman was totally a bitch. She was like, â€Å"Hello. Blah Blah Property Management.† And I was like, â€Å"I need to rent an apartment.† And she was all, â€Å"How many bedrooms and did you have an area in mind?† And I was all, â€Å"What's with all the questions, bitch? Are you some kind of thought police or something?† And she was like, â€Å"I'm just trying to help.† â€Å"Right, help. Like tuberculosis.† So she's all, â€Å"I beg your pardon,† like the queen of freakin' France or something. And then I remembered that I was supposed to ask for a specific person, so I was like, â€Å"Oh, I need to speak to Alicia DeVries, Is she there?† And the bitch connected me. So it turns out that Alicia DeVries is this crusty hippie who is like as old as my grandma, but wants to be all Earth Mother and everything, which I'm not against, because old hippies have the best pot and they'll just give it to you if you pretend not to notice that they're crusty and old. So Alicia picks me up in her crust-mobile rainbow peace-and-love Jeep CJ and I give her the requirements of the vampyre Flood, which were bedroom with no windows, a washer and dryer, private entrance with lockout, and, at least above the ground floor, windows looking down on the street. And she's all, â€Å"We have to have a Social Security number and driver's license number for the paperwork – you have to be eighteen.† So I'm, â€Å"My client will provide all the information you need, it's just that he's very busy and can't deal with pissant details during the day.† Then I waved the cash that Flood gave me and she went all spacey, overmeditated,  «namaste » on me, like it's not about the money when it's really about the money. Then she takes me to this loft, which it turns out is only like a half a block from the address where Flood said to meet him at sundown. Sweet! So I'm all, â€Å"Excellent, the master will be pleased.† And she's like, â€Å"I'll make you out a receipt.† Then she starts to lecture me about respecting myself as a woman, and not allowing myself to be subjugated to the desires of an older man and shit – like I'm this corporate fuck-puppet for some creepy businessman or something. I didn't want her to get suspicious and try to rescue me, so I'm like, â€Å"No, you misunderstand, I call him the master because he's the sensei of my jujitsu dojo – he's not boning me or anything.† Luckily I have an extensive martial-arts background from watching anime with Jared and I knew that one must never bone the sensei. So she like reaches over and pats my knee. All, â€Å"That's okay, sweetheart.† And I'm like, â€Å"Step off, rug-muncher!† I mean, I'm as bi as the next person, but not with some crusty old hippie – I need music and some X, and then only if some guy has rejected me and thrown my heart into the gutter like an abandoned vegetarian burrito – and even then I draw the line at making out. So she gave me the keys and took my money and just, like, left me there. So I called Lily, who came over with a two-liter of Diet Green Tea, a bag of Cheese Newts (I still hadn't had breakfast), and some book she found called The Big Book of Death. So we looked at the book, which is this how-to thing with great art, and drank tea and ate Cheese Newts until she had to go to work. I wanted to tell her about the vampyre Flood, but I promised that I would keep his secret, so all I told her was that I had discovered my Dark Lord, and he would soon satisfy my every desire and I couldn't tell her anything else. So she was all, â€Å"whatever, ho,† which is what I like about her – Lily is trs noir. So I walked over to the Sony Metreon and watched the flat-screens until it started to get dark. I was already about ready to pee with nervousness when I got to Flood's door, but then, just as I get my key in the door, this big Hummer limo pulls up, and these three college-age guys climb out followed by this blue woman in a silver dress with ginormous fake boobs. And they're all, â€Å"Where is Flood? We need to find Flood?† And she's all, â€Å"Where did you get the key? You need to let us in before it gets dark.† I'm not intimidated – because I know that her boobs are fake. And it's so obvious that they hunt the nosferatu that it's not even funny. Inside, I was like: â€Å"Ha, suck my spiky rubber strap-on, vampyre hunter!† But on the outside I was totally chill. And I'm like, â€Å"I don't know who you're talking about. This is my apartment.† Then I opened the door and inside, lying on the landing, there's this dead guy with a huge bald cat in a red sweater on his chest. And the cat hissed at me and I screamed just a little bit and slammed the door. â€Å"You have to go,† I said. â€Å"My boyfriend is naked and he gets mad if strangers see his enormous unit.† I looked right at the blue bitch when I said that, like: Oh yeah, some of us are confident enough in our own femininity that we don't need fake tits to get a guy with a huge unit. And the black guy is like, â€Å"I just talked to Flood here last night.† And I was like, â€Å"Yeah, he moved.† Then the Asian guy checked his watch and was like, â€Å"Dude, too late, it's officially sunset.† And it was like it was on cue or something, the cat on the dead guy let out a long scary yowl, and even the blue skank backed away toward the limo. â€Å"You'd better go now,† I said, all ominous and full of foreboding and dread. And she was all, â€Å"We'll be back.† And I was like, â€Å"So?† So they went. But then I had to get past the cat and the dead guy and go up the steps. I have to say, that as much as I'm all about the peace of the grave and the glorious gloomth of the nonliving and all, it's different when there's a real dead guy you have to walk over, not to mention a really big, angry cat in a sweater. NOTE TO SELF: Always carry Kitty Treats for Self-Defense (because evidently they don't like Skittles, which I tried). Since I didn't have any kitty treats, I got by the preternaturally big-ass cat by opening the door wide and yelling, â€Å"Hey, kitty, go away!† Much to my amazement, the cat ran out of the doorway and hid under a parked car. It was like I already had vampyre powers to command the Children of the Night. Then I had to get past the dead guy on the landing, which was sort of like dead-guy hopscotch, but I got up the stairs and managed only to step on one of his arms. I was hoping he really was dead, and not one of the nosferatu, because then he might be pissed off when he rose. He certainly smelled dead, the fetid stench of the charnel house emanated from him like a foul miasma of evil, as they say in the books. So I opened the door, and I go, â€Å"Lord Flood, there's a stinky dead guy with a huge cat on your landing.† Thinking that I would get total loyal-servant brownies. Then I saw her, the ancient vampyre mistress – her skin like alabaster, or you know, no zits at all, and she seemed to glow with inner power. I could see why even a powerful vampyre like Flood might be helpless under her awesome strengths, gathered over the ages by sucking the lifeblood of thousands of helpless victims, probably kids. And she was like, drinking a cup of coffee out of a Garfield mug, as if flaunting her immortality in the face of us petty, insignificant mortals. She had on only a bathrobe, which was partly open in front, so you could see that she had like great cleavage, ancient total skank that she was. So I'm like, â€Å"Hi.† And she's like, â€Å"So, Wednesday, you know Buffy's not a real person, right?† Bitch. â€Å"What do you mean, dead?† Tommy said. He ran to the door and flung it open. â€Å"He's not here.† He bolted down the steps in his bare feet, leaving Jody standing across the breakfast bar from Abby. â€Å"I'm going to look for him,† Tommy called. The downstairs door closed, the lock clicked. Jody pulled her robe closed when she saw Abby Normal staring. She could hear the girl's heart pounding, could see her pulse beating in her neck, could smell nervous sweat, clove cigarettes, and some kind of cheese snack. They stared at each other. â€Å"I found you an apartment, Mistress,† Abby said. She dug into the pocket of her hoodie and came out with a rent receipt. â€Å"Call me Jody,† Jody said. Abby nodded conspiratorially, like she was acknowledging it was only a code name. She was a cute kid, in a scary, will-probably-poison-the-dog-and-then-molest-him kind of way. Jody had never really had a problem with younger women as competition. After all, she was only twenty-six, and with the extreme antiaging treatment she'd gained from her vampirism, right down to her baby toes straightening out and every freckle she'd ever had disappearing, she felt superior, even a tad maternal toward Abby, who was a little knock-kneed in her red plastic skirt and green sneakers. â€Å"I'm Abby,† Abby said, and she curtsied. Jody choked, sprayed coffee out her nose, and turned quickly so as not to laugh in Abby's face. â€Å"Are you okay, Mistress – I mean, Jody?† â€Å"No, I'm fine.† It was strange just how sensitive the vampire sinus is to hot liquids. Jody was sure that she might never smell anything but bloody French roast again, and her eyes were watering, or so she thought, but when she turned back around, Abby jumped back six feet and yelped. â€Å"Holy shit!† Abby had backed against the futon frame and was about to tumble over backwards. Jody was around the breakfast bar, steadying the girl in less than a tenth of a second – which caused Abby to jump straight into the air about three feet. Jody could tell the girl was going to fall. Abby was going to come down with one foot on the back of the futon frame, one in midair, and she was going to tumble over and land on her shoulder and head on the hardwood floor. Jody saw this coming, could have caught Abby and set her gently on her feet, but instead, she felt that maternal instinct kick in – the realization that if the child didn't take a knock or two, she'd never learn – so Jody stepped back into the kitchen, where she picked up her coffee and watched as the kid hit. â€Å"Ouch!† Said Abby, now a black-and-red heap on the floor. â€Å"Boy, that looked like it hurt,† Jody said. Abby was on her feet, limping and rubbing her head. â€Å"What the fuck, Countess? I thought you had my back.† â€Å"Yeah, sorry,† Jody said. â€Å"Why the freak-out?† â€Å"There's blood running down your face. I guess it startled me.† Jody dabbed at her eyes with the sleeve of her robe, leaving little red spots on the white terry cloth. â€Å"Well, would you look at that?† She was trying to be casual, trying to act like someone four or five hundred years old might behave, but the blood tears were disturbing her more than a little. Change the subject. â€Å"So, this apartment you found, where is it?† â€Å"Don't you want to wait for Flood?† Abby asked. â€Å"Flood? What Flood?† â€Å"Flood, the orange-colored vampire who just ran out the door.† â€Å"Oh, him,† Jody said. Tommy and his tanning lotion. He was out running around on the street with no shirt or shoes. Orange. â€Å"Was he orange?† Abby threw out her nearly nonexistent hip. â€Å"Hello? You're crying blood and your partner is orange and you didn't notice? Do you guys get senile over the years or what?† Jody set her cup down on the counter, just to make sure that it didn't shatter in her hand. She drew on her experience working in the claims department at Transamerica, where her immediate supervisor was a complete ass-bag, and it took everything she could do, every minute of the day, not to bang the woman's skull repeatedly in a filing drawer. She liked to think of it as her professional face. So instead of snapping Abby's pale little neck, she smiled, counting to ten as she did. At ten, she said, â€Å"Go get him. Bring him back.† Another smile. â€Å"Okay, sweetie?† â€Å"But why is he orange?† â€Å"The shedding is upon him,† Jody said. â€Å"Every hundred years or so, we shed our skin, and a few weeks prior we turn orange. It's a very dangerous time for us. So please, go find him.† Abby nodded furiously and backed away toward the door. â€Å"Really?† â€Å"Really,† Jody said, nodding gravely. â€Å"Quick, away with you, the time of the shedding is upon him.† She waved toward the door the way she thought a five-hundred-year-old countess might. (Where did the countess thing come from, anyway?) â€Å"Right,† Abby said, and she took off out the loft door and down the steps after Tommy. Jody went to the bathroom and used a damp washcloth to wash the blood tears off her face. I may actually be evil, she thought. She knew it should bother her more, being evil and all, but after she put on a little mascara and some lipstick and poured herself another cup of blood-laced coffee, she found that she was okay with it. Chapter Thirteen Moving Day Jody sipped her coffee and sighed, satisfied, like she'd just had a gentle coffee orgasm, the sort of pleasurable release you only see people have in commercials for froufrou coffee and hemorrhoid cream. This blood-beverage phenomenon added a whole new twist to their lives. A glass of wine? A diet cola maybe – wait, screw diet – a sugary, teeth-rotting cola. What about solid food? Sure, being a godlike creature of the night was great, but what about a jelly donut? French fries? She was Irish, she felt a deep-seated need for potatoes. She was musing on the idea of heading up to McDonald's on Market Street and spooging a syringe full of William's blood all over a supersized box of deep-fried nirvana when the phone rang. The caller ID number was blocked, it just said mobile. It might be Tommy. He'd activated the disposable mobile phones they'd bought, but he probably hadn't written down the numbers. â€Å"Hey, pumpkin,† Jody said. She heard a clattering at the other end of the line. â€Å"Sorry, I dropped the phone.† Oops. Not Tommy. â€Å"Who is this?† â€Å"Uh, it's, uh, it's Steve. I'm the med student who called you about your condition.† He'd found her when she'd gone to a Blood Drinkers Anonymous meeting in Japan Town, which turned out to be a bunch of nerds with problems distinguishing fantasy from reality. Had watched her from a distance and called her on a pay phone from blocks away, ready to jump in his car and bolt if she came near him. He knew what she was. He'd said that he had examined one of the bodies left by the old vampire. Elijah had snapped their necks so the bodies would be found, instead of turning to dust. â€Å"What do you want?† â€Å"Well, like I said, I'm a med student at Berkeley. Actually, I'm in research. Gene therapy.† â€Å"Yeah, next lie, please.† Jody's mind was going ninety miles and hour. Too many people knew about her. Maybe she and Tommy should have left town. â€Å"What lie?† Steve asked. â€Å"Berkeley doesn't have a med school,† Jody said. â€Å"So what do you want?† â€Å"I don't want anything. I've been trying to tell you, I've studied the blood of the victims. I think I may be able to reverse your condition. Turn you back. I just need some time in the lab with your blood.† â€Å"Bullshit, Steve. This isn't biology.† â€Å"Yes it is. I told your boyfriend the night you turned him.† â€Å"How did you know†¦?† â€Å"I was on the phone with him when you told him you were going to be together for a very long time.† â€Å"Well, that was rude, just listening like that.† â€Å"Sorry. I've managed to get cloned cells from the throats of victims to revert to their natural human state.† â€Å"Which is dead,† Jody said. â€Å"No, living cells. I just need to meet with you.† He'd pressed this before, and Jody had been willing to meet with him, but unfortunately, while she was sleeping, Tommy had put her in the freezer for a few days and she'd missed the appointment. â€Å"No meeting, Steve. Forget you know anything about this. You'll have to write your dissertation on something else.† â€Å"Well, take my number if you change your mind, okay?† He gave her the number and Jody wrote it down. â€Å"It's a burner cell phone,† Steve said, â€Å"So you can't find me through it.† â€Å"I don't want to find you, Steve.† â€Å"I promise I won't reveal your – your condition to anyone, so you don't need to find me.† â€Å"Don't worry,† Jody said. â€Å"I don't want to find you.† Get over yourself, she wanted to add. â€Å"What about the other one you warned me about?† Jody looked at the bronze statue that held Elijah Ben Sapir. â€Å"He won't bother you either.† â€Å"Oh, good.† â€Å"Steve?† â€Å"Yeah?† â€Å"If you tell anyone, I'll find you, and I'll slowly snap every bone in your body before I kill you.† Jody tried to make it sound cheerful, but the threat sort of cut through the bright, friendly lilt in her voice. â€Å"Okay then. Bye.† â€Å"Yeah,† Jody said. â€Å"You take care.† â€Å"The shedding?† Tommy said as he came through the door. Jody stood at the counter in her new red leather jacket, boots, and mist-tight black jeans. Jody could hear Abby locking the downstairs door, so they had a few seconds alone. â€Å"Look, did you want me to tell her you were just a big orange doofus?† â€Å"I guess not. Hey – â€Å" â€Å"She calls you Flood?† â€Å"I couldn't tell her ‘Tommy. I'm her dark lord. Your dark lord can't be named Tommy. ‘Flood' has an air of power.† â€Å"And dampness.† â€Å"Yeah, it's got the dampness thing going for it, too.† Abby came in, breathing hard. She'd been sweating and her eyeliner was running in two black streaks down her cheeks. â€Å"We didn't find him. I could have sworn he was dead. He smelled like it.† â€Å"You got something against dead people?† Jody said – tough-guy voice. â€Å"Are you saying there's something wrong with dead people? Is that what you're saying? Are you saying you're too good for the dead, is that what you're saying?† Abby stepped behind Tommy and peeked around. The kid was still out of breath from trying to keep up with Tommy, and now she was frightened, too. â€Å"No, Mistress, I think the nonliving are great. I'm all about dead people. I have a ‘I Fuck the Dead' T-shirt even. I can wear it tomorrow if you want. I didn't mean†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"It's okay, Abby,† Jody said, waving it off. â€Å"Just fucking with you.† â€Å"Jody!† Tommy said, scolding. â€Å"Don't scare the minion.† â€Å"Sorry,† Jody said, thinking, once again, that she might be evil. â€Å"What about the new apartment. Did you look at it?† â€Å"We went by it. It's only a few doors down. We don't even have to cross the street.† â€Å"You think that's far enough? They won't find us there?† â€Å"Well, at least they won't find us here. I don't think anyone's going to think that we'd only move a few doors down. They'll think we've at least left the City. What kind of idiot would only move a few doors away? It's brilliant.† â€Å"Plus an easy move,† Jody said. â€Å"You guys can do it without a truck.† â€Å"You guys?† â€Å"Well, I've got to find William, and you can't exactly run around until the shedding has subsided. Abby, do you have enough makeup to cover his face and hands?† â€Å"Tons,† Abby said. She held up her messenger bag. â€Å"But I can only help for a little while. I have to get home.† â€Å"Why?† Tommy asked. â€Å"We require your services.† He meant to sound sophisticated and European, but it came out sounding lecherous. â€Å"He means moving,† Jody said. â€Å"I've got his other services covered.† â€Å"I can't,† Abby said. â€Å"My sister has lice.† â€Å"So,† Abby said, â€Å"the countess is kind of a bitch.† â€Å"No, she's just a dark creature of unspeakable evil,† Tommy said. He had the futon on his back and was making his way down the street as Abby followed him with a lamp in one hand and a blender in the other. â€Å"In a nice way,† he added – thinking that maybe he'd already made enough of an impression on Abby. Although it was early in the evening, and it was a little unusual to see a guy walking down the street carrying a futon, followed by a Goth girl carrying a lamp and a blender, it was just unusual enough that people would have felt stupid if they asked what was going on and someone pointed out it was modern dance, or performance art, or people robbing an apartment. San Francisco is a city of sophisticates, and except for a homeless guy who remarked on the tackiness of Tommy's Pier 1 Imports decor, they had moved half of the furniture and clothing without comment. â€Å"Do you need to feed?† Abby asked when they got back to the old loft. They were standing in the living room, where there was little left except some bookcases and the three bronze statues. â€Å"Huh?† Tommy replied. â€Å"I'm guessing that you need to feed,† Abby said, pulling her hoodie aside and offering up her neck. â€Å"And I have to get going. I have to get to Walgreens and catch the bus home before the parental unit goes critical. Go ahead. I'm ready.† She closed her eyes and started breathing hard, as if bracing for the pain. â€Å"Take me, Flood. I'm ready.† â€Å"Really?† Tommy said. Abby opened one eye. â€Å"Well yeah.† â€Å"You're sure?† Tommy hadn't bitten another woman. He wasn't sure if it might not be cheating. What if the whole sex thing went off the way it did with Jody? That kind of activity would kill a normal human woman, plus, he was pretty sure that Jody would not approve. â€Å"Maybe a little from the wrist,† Tommy said. Abby opened her eyes and pulled up her sleeve. â€Å"Of course, so you don't leave the mark of nosferatu.† She said it with a hiss – nasss – sssss – fer-a-too – like she was speaking snake. â€Å"Oh, it won't leave any marks,† Tommy said. â€Å"You'll heal up like instantly.† He was starting to feel the hunger rise in him, he could feel his fangs pressing down from the roof of his mouth. â€Å"Really?† â€Å"Oh yeah, Jody bit me almost every night before I changed over, and no one ever noticed down at the store.† â€Å"The store?† Oops. â€Å"The ye olde porridge and leeches store, where I worked, in the ye old days.† â€Å"I thought you were a lord?† â€Å"Well, yeah, I mean, I owned the store, and some serfs, and scullery maids – couldn't get enough of the scullery maids – but I put in a shift now and then. You know, help to stir the porridge and inventory the leeches. Serfs will steal you blind if you don't watch them. Well, enough business, let's get to that feeding.† He took her wrist and pulled it to his mouth, then stopped. She was looking at him, one eyebrow sort of cocked in the air, and there was a silver ring in it, so it felt more incredulous than a normal eyebrow. He dropped her arm. â€Å"You know, maybe you should get home before you get in trouble. I wouldn't want my minion on restriction.† Abby looked hurt now. â€Å"But, Lord Flood, have I offended you? Am I not deserving?† â€Å"You were looking at me like you thought I was fucking with you,† Tommy said. â€Å"Weren't you?† â€Å"Well no. This is a two-way street, Abby. I can't ask for your loyalty if I don't give you trust in return.† He couldn't believe the bullshit that was coming out of his mouth. â€Å"Oh, okay then.† â€Å"Tomorrow night,† Tommy said. â€Å"I'll bleed you within an inch of your life, I promise.† The things you never think you'll hear yourself say. Abby rolled down her sleeve. â€Å"Okay then. Will you be able to get the rest by yourself?† â€Å"Sure. Vampire powers. Duh.† He laughed, waving at the heavy bronze statues like they were nothing. â€Å"You know,† Abby said, â€Å"the man and the turtle are cool, but that woman statue, you should get rid of that. She looks kind of skanky.† â€Å"You think?† Abby nodded. â€Å"Yeah. Maybe there's some church or something that you could donate it to. Like, to show how you don't want your daughter to grow up. Oh, sorry, Lord Flood, I didn't mean to say church.† â€Å"No, I'm okay,† Tommy said. â€Å"I'll walk you out.† â€Å"Thanks,† Abby said. He followed her downstairs and held the door to the street, then at the last minute, as she was walking away, she turned and kissed him quickly on the cheek. â€Å"I love you, Lord Flood,† she whispered in his ear. Then she turned and ran up the sidewalk. Tommy felt himself blush. Dead as he was, he felt heat rise in his cheeks. He turned and trudged back up the steps, feeling the full weight of his four, maybe five hundred years of life. He needed to talk to Jody. How long could it take to find one drunk guy with a giant cat? He dug his cell phone out of his pocket and dialed the number of the phone he'd given Jody. He could hear it ringing on the kitchen counter where she had left it.