Compare and contrast the short stories “Mr. Loveday’s Little outing” by Evelyn Waugh, and “Raspberry Jam” by Angus Wilson

In this essay I will introduce, compare and contrast two short stories, written in rather similar ways but with some very important differences. The first of these stories is â€Å"Mr. Loveday's Little outing† by Evelyn Waugh, the second, â€Å"Raspberry Jam† by Angus Wilson. Upon initial inspection of the introductory paragraphs of these two short stories it becomes apparent that Raspberry Jam is far more complex than its counterpart, and is also considerably longer. It is introduced in a fashion not unlike that of a novel, with a lot of dialogue and insight into the primary character; Johnnie's thoughts and his family's perceptions of him. The scene is set in the opening sentence â€Å"‘How are your funny friends from Potter's Farm, Johnnie?' asked his aunt from London.† We are introduced to two characters, the central character and his aunt, who appears, through her discourse as being rather posh and self-important. The story then continues with narrative giving insight into Johnnie's take on things. We immediately notice the retrospective style of writing as Johnnie recounts past events regarding his family and particularly his two elder friends; Misses Swindales, of whom his close relatives do not approve. Through their conversation we come to understand that they regard the old women as somewhat strange, â€Å"mad† even; â€Å"you really must meet them. They're the most wonderful pair of freaks.† Subsequently, through Johnnie's uneasy reaction to this talk â€Å"Many of the things the others said made the little boy bite his lip† we understand that the story is about madness, and each character's own definition of â€Å"mad† with regards to the class structure of the time.Love Poem The second story, â€Å"Mr. Loveday's Little outing† opens in a rather different manner, the first phrase â€Å"You will not find your father greatly changed,' remarked Lady Moping, as the car turned into the gates of the County Asylum.†, introduces us to, yet another rather genteel woman, Lady Moping, who is engaged in conversation with her daughter, Angela. They are going to visit Lord Moping, Angela's father in the County Asylum and again, through the latter's wife's manner of speech we can see that she does not approve of her husband being in an Asylum. The narrative technique, here is a progressive one, and thus the story is kept much less complex, with fewer mental insights, and a much more superficial approach. Although the narrative techniques and simplicity of plot and characters is distinctively different across the two stories, the main characters themselves are parallel. In both â€Å"Raspberry Jam† and â€Å"Mr. Loveday†¦Ã¢â‚¬  there is a conflict in the class structure, in the first, this is apparent through Johnnie/his relatives and in the latter, through Angela/Lady Moping. A parallel can be drawn between Johnnie and Angela as two children who seem to be thoroughly uninterested in the class system and appear to be trying to break free from it in their own ways. Johnnie is a rebel, drawing disapproval from his parents as his father is â€Å"always complaining that the child is too much with women and has no friends his own age.† Angela, on the other hand, associates herself with inmates at the asylum â€Å"Angela left the asylum, oppressed by a sense of injustice. Her mother was unsympathetic †¦ ‘He attempted to hang himself in the orangery,' replied Lady Moping, ‘in front of the Chester-Martins.' The situation of each child is very like the other's, with the parents disapproving of their children's actions on the grounds of a violation of the class structure. The biggest similarity, across the two stories lies in the fact that each and every character in both of the stories thinks that someone is mad and the plot itself is about their different perceptions of ‘mad'. In â€Å"Raspberry Jam†, for example, Grace thinks that the Misses Swindales are mad, but they, on the other hand, perceive the world as being mad, and occasionally even, each other. Both stories are therefore spinning a web of confusion and madness within which all the characters are trapped and trying to make sense of. The biggest similarity between these two short stories, however, is certainly their conclusion. Each has a ‘dormant' character that reveals themselves towards the end, having deceived the reader and the other characters for the length of the book. In â€Å"Raspberry Jam† this is the Misses Swindales, whom everyone thinks to be mad, but do not appear to be until the end when, in the presence of Johnnie, they sadistically butcher a bullfinch. In â€Å"Mr. Loveday's Little Outing†, Mr. Loveday himself is the twist in the story, when, after appearing perfectly sane for twenty years, he murders a young woman on a bicycle, repeating his previous crime and making of himself a serial killer. Finally, â€Å"Mr. Loveday's Little Outing† is much more light-hearted than its counterpart; â€Å"Raspberry Jam† which is full of physiological black humour. The latter is therefore much ‘heavier' and more sinister with regards to both the events and the style of writing. Despite the fact that Evelyn Waugh's story deals with such grim matters as suicide, it is presented in a rather comical manner â€Å"Lord Moping habitually threatened suicide on the occasion of the garden party†. It must also not be forgotten that each of these stories is a small masterpiece, each following the same template but having been written in completely different styles. Neither is superior, it is purely a matter of preference of literary styles, be it progressive or retrospective, comical or grim, each style adds a different flavour to the plot and the way in which we, the reader interpret the events.

The Bhopal Disaster Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Bhopal Disaster - Essay Example (e) The MIC tank was filled beyond capacity, so much that the overflow tank was also full. (f) The malfunctioning blow down value of the MIC tank was malfunctioning because it was in an open position. Consequences of the disaster: As stated earlier, there were 3800 plus deaths and more than 200,000 injured. Apart from the loss of human life, crops, animals and marine life were destroyed. Many of the women developed diseases such as gonorrhoea and pelvic inflammation, excessive menstruation and suppressed lactation. There was a high incidence of still births and among the babies who where born, there was a high rate of babies born with deformities. Many foetuses suffered from respiratory ailments and complications, which also afflicted the mothers. Other symptoms which were produced included impaired audio and visual memory, neuroses and anxiety reactions. Reliability Block Diagram: The reliability of any system is derived in terms of the reliabilities of the individual components of the system. The advantages of using reliability block diagrams are as follows: (a) Integrating the probability of faults occurring into modules (b) Including within each module, the probability of failure, the failure rate, the distribution of time to failure, the steady state and instantaneous availability (c) The ability to organize each module in a structured way, dependent upon the effects of each module’s failure The reliability block diagram can be used to assess probability for failure for the Bhopal disaster as well. The major cause of the failure was the faulty valve which allowed water to pass into the MIC tank. This major fault was only... There were 3800 plus deaths and more than 200,000 injured. Apart from the loss of human life, crops, animals, and marine life were destroyed. Many of the women developed diseases such as gonorrhea and pelvic inflammation, excessive menstruation and suppressed lactation. There was a high incidence of stillbirths and among the babies who were born, there was a high rate of babies born with deformities. Many fetuses suffered from respiratory ailments and complications, which also afflicted the mothers. Other symptoms which were produced included impaired audio and visual memory, neuroses and anxiety reactions. The reliability of any system is derived in terms of the reliabilities of the individual components of the system. The advantages of using reliability block diagrams are as follows: Integrating the probability of faults occurring into modules Including within each module, the probability of failure, the failure rate, the distribution of time to failure, the steady state, and instantaneous availability The ability to organize each module in a structured way, dependent upon the effects of each module’s failure The reliability block diagram can be used to assess the probability of failure for the Bhopal disaster as well. The major cause of the failure was the faulty valve which allowed water to pass into the MIC tank. This major fault was only exacerbated by other related factors, such as switched off air-conditioning, and malfunctioning pressure and temperature gauges, which prevented the fault condition being detected on time.

Performance Appraisals Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Performance Appraisals - Research Paper Example Performance appraisal is also used in performance management where subordinates are given a chance to appraise their employer’s performance in meeting their expectations and relaying such expectations to employers (DeNisi & Pritchard, 2006). Performance management is used to manage and align organization’s resources so as to achieve the targeted goals. Therefore, the way performance appraisal is managed in an organization is a determinant of whether the organization will fail or succeed. DeNisi and Pritchard (2006) advise that every organization that plans to attain a competitive edge should put performance appraisal among its top priorities. This competitive advantage is highly depends on the way communication skills of the reviewer will guide that of the reviewed.McLean (2010) has outlined the way business communication should be fashioned when doing performance appraisal and other business undertakings. He analyzes that a business communicator should take the respons ibility of preparing several facets such as clarity, conciseness, punctuality and organization before the communication starts. In this case, if the business communicator is preparing for a performance appraisal exercise all these facets are significant so as to attain all set goals of the assessment. When all these facets are considered, the business communicator is said to be well prepared. This preparation involves selecting an appropriate topic to the goals and objectives of the appraisal, doing research on the needed information and covering the topic., putting the information in a logical sequence, and preparing for the best presentation of the interviews for appraisal. From the classical perspective, Mclean (2010) used the Aristotelian model of organization of a communicator. For Aristotle, the organization of a communicator is referred to as logos or logic. This involves making the communication and assessment logical so that it clearly leads to the intended end (Manasa & Re ddy, 2009). This process may involve filtering the needed and unwanted information based on the objectives of the whole exercise. This way, a logical performance appraisal assessment is understood by the reviewed, and they are able to offer their logical responses as well. The second part is that the message should be clear. Vague and wandering communication is not interesting listening or

Competitive use of Information at E-bay.com Essay

Competitive use of Information at E-bay.com - Essay Example Most relevant influencing factor that paved the way for a new thrust in doing business is the prolific use of technological advancement and application generated by the Internet. Global organizations reportedly operate within an Internet economy. According to Fichter (2003), â€Å"the term â€Å"Internet economy† emphasizes the networking of economic actors and processes by means of electronic communication media and the related change in structures of value creation, mechanisms of market function, professional life, and consumption patterns† (p. 26). Likewise, Bazdan (2011) asserted that â€Å"one of the newest evolving positive trends is electronic commerce, commonly known as e-commerce or ecommerce. The process consists of buying and selling various products or services over electronic systems, such as the Internet and other computer networks† (p. 45). From among the most identifiable successful participants in the Internet economy, two organizations from the United States are prominent: eBay.com and Amazon.com (Bazdan 2011). The current discourse focuses on presenting a critical analysis of eBay, including its brief historical overview, strategies and analysis of its performance using Porter’s five forces and SWOT. History of E-Commerce (The Digital Age) Different studies have identified the origin of e-commerce from varied time frames. The earliest originating date was noted that â€Å"in its purest form, electronic commerce has existed for over 40 years, originating from the electronic transmission of messages during the Berlin airlift in 1948. From this; Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) was the next stage of e-commerce development† (Obayi, 2011, p. 18). According to Hiser, Lanka, Li & Oliver (n.d.) the date that was identified to originate e-commerce was 1984 when â€Å"EDI, or electronic data interchange, was standardized through ASC X12. This guaranteed that companies would be able to complete transactions with one another reliably† (p. 1). Both sources have acknowledged EDI as commonly present and instrumental in the development and growth of e-commerce. The popularity of use and applications offered by the Internet in 1993 was noted to have made a wave of effects, specifically labeled as first and second waves of the internet economy (Fichter, 2003). This meant that the evolution of global organizations that increasingly relied on the Internet gradually shifted their focus from â€Å"stationary computers and terminal devices† (Fichter, 2003, p. 26), to the proliferated use of mobile and telecommunication devices that could be linked directly on the organizations’ Internet providers. The term e-commerce was likewise defined as â€Å"an electronic transaction is the sale or purchase of goods or services, whether between businesses, households, individuals, governments, and other public or private organizations, conducted over computer-mediated networks. The goods and servi ces are ordered over those networks, but the payment and the ultimate delivery of the good or service may be conducted on- or off-line† (OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development), 2001; cited in Fichter, 2003, p. 27). Likewise, Obayi (2011) clearly stipulated that e-commerce includes the following essential ingredients, to wit: â€Å"1. Electronic trading of physical goods and of intangibles such as information. 2. All the steps involved in trade, such as on-line marketing, ordering payment and support for delivery. 3. The electronic provision of services such as after sales support

Ethics in Scientific Journals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ethics in Scientific Journals - Essay Example Ethics is very important in scientific journals. It is very important to note that when reporting any scientific information, care should be exercised. Over the recent past, scientific journals have gained a lot of popularity. Currently, there are journals for scientific research, where scientific researchers would publish their reports, especially those that are either urgent or not large enough to make a book. There are occasions where scientific research is reported in the main media channels. It is very important to ensure that when reporting scientific information, correctness is maintained. This would ensure that any misleading information is eliminated; hence they do not reach the masses. Whether published in the scientific journals or main mass media, there would always be a review done to ensure that ethics, among other factors, are maintained in the report. Scientific reports, unlike other reports, are having a greater impact. Rollin (12) says that scientific reports are de pended upon by many professionals for application in various fields. The reports are always subjected to peer review because of the consequences with which they have when misinterpreted. Aristotle (23) says that scientific journals would be peer-reviewed before publication to ensure that any misleading information is completely eliminated. This scholar gives an example of a medical report. The world has witnessed the emergence of many new health complications that have necessitated research. Some of the existing stubborn diseases like HIV/AIDs have also called for scientific research to unravel the mystery behind them. When a report about such diseases is made, medics would always rely on them in their normal duties. This is an issue about someone’s life. If any information is given about them, then it would be putting the lives of many people at risk. This will not only be a criminal offense, but also a very unethical term. The same is the case with other professionals like engineering because the consequence would result in bodily harm. Unlike political reports that are always full of speculations, scientific reports would not always sustain any speculations. There are no rumors in a medical report. The report must be precise and without any form of doubt. If there is a need for further research because some parts of the research are not conclusive, it should be made clear so that this part needs further research. As such, any person using this material would know that the research is not conclusive in other sections. When applied, the person would know that the material is not conclusive and therefore would know the limits within which the report would be valid Scientist should therefore keenly review media reports about their studies and work to correct any misleading statements. It is a common phenomenon that journalists would be interested in reporting various facts about scientific research.

Regions Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Regions - Research Paper Example The research also analyzed the government involvement in promoting good relations between the people and the international capital market. The research examined the relations in the fisheries, mining, and equipment applied and the overall contribution to the growth of the economy. The researchers based their arguments on the literatures published on the canoe trade in Central American Mosquitia region. It then contrasted the literatures with the contribution of the canoe trade to the economic and social relations development. The researchers analyzed the statistical data on the region and drew the relevant conclusions. The trade practices open up a people’s imagination and appreciation of the motives of trade, that is, profit oriented. The trade between the international markets and the remote isolated rural populations re-synthesizes the aspects of the people’s livelihoods. The objective of this research is to establish the dependence of wealth generation to the social relationships between the trading parties. The economic growth of a particular region depends on the trade activities of that region. Trade results into the exchange of cultural activities and crucial information between the partners. The information opens up the people’s perception of the natural phenomena and hence appreciates the essence of trade activities and good relations. The research herein reviewed three resources and drafted reasonable conclusions. Analysis of trading activities takes into account the measures put across to help establish the favorable business culture. Sound infrastructural facilities, equipments and social relations are essential aspects for consideration. Trade promotes the economic growth, which in effect promotes establishments of social amenities such as education centers. The investors also introduce endogenous projects into the regions that promote the rural development in effect. The development takes into

Develop a plan for Domestic Destination Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

Develop a plan for Domestic Destination - Essay Example Through participation the individual provide financial assistance and thus the local individuals are empowered. Additionally, the local community can attain direct financial benefit through conservation of the natural resources (Allen and Frank, 31). Through conservation the heritage and the beautiful environment is protected while the communities benefit from employment thereby achieving a sustainable development. This means that a preserved ecosystem will host tourist to come and witness beautiful planet and social climate (Chawla, 23). Through ecotourism individuals are able to understand the nature, local community and their culture. Medical tourism refers to a travel that tourist undertake to ensure that they can get medical treatment (Kulkarni, 20). The purpose of traveling is to attain and improve their health or fitness. Medical tourism has a long history that dates back thousands of years. For example, in Greece thousands patients were traveling so that they could receive healing from Asklepios in Epidauria . Asklepios was a god who used to heal individuals from any part of the country who had different problems and this was a reason why individuals would travel (Bookman and Karla, 31). In other countries people travel from other parts of country when they hear there is a place where their problem related to medical issues. For example people used to travel from other countries so that they would collect water that was assumed to be holy. For example the waters from the holy shrines have been used by many individuals who move from one country to another so that they will collect the holy water (Stolley and Stephanie, 54). This is a medical tourism since the tourists have one goal of being healed whenever they will visit such places. For the less developed countries, patients tend to seek medical assistance from developed