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Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Men's Ware Changed Tradition
Men’s Ware Changed Tradition
Traditions have existed throughout history. Most were established many, many decades ago by people living in a different time. Typically most traditions remain unaltered throughout the years. However, occasionally a new tradition will be created, or an old tradition will be changed to accommodate an ever changing world. One tradition that has changed throughout history is the style of women’s clothing. Women once were only seen in long dresses with feminine prints. Now the concept of men’s ware is prevalent. Women are wearing pants, power suits, blazers, and ties in every day attire. The freedom women have experienced in their clothing choices are reflected in their career choices, and every day activities. As women’s style of dress has become more masculine, their role and acceptance in society has also changed.
The traditional idea of women was once very limited. Women were only accepted by society if they wore dresses, skirts, or scarves with very feminine patterns. The majority of women were also homemakers; they cooked, cleaned, and took care of the children. There was a distinct separation between what was acceptable for a male, and what was acceptable for a female. Rarely, did the two mix worlds.
Today, those worlds mix. Women are wearing clothes that were once only tailored for men, and are becoming increasingly successful in the workplace. Women are seen in blazers, power suits, ties, and pants. Clothing stores, from high end to bargain, carry masculine clothes for women in muted colors. Celebrities, young and old, are photographed in men’s ware, and high profile magazines publish spreads geared towards men’s ware. Women also hold positions as high as CEO or CFO, senator, and editor. These looks and roles of women are now what are accepted by society.
People usually attribute the word tradition to the past, and believe traditions never change. Catherine G. Latterell states, “…traditions are practices that have been handed down to us by past generations” (176). Later she says, “The reality is that many traditions are more recent inventions” (177). When comparing the previous tradition of women’s clothing to the new masculine style of dress it is very clear that this tradition has changed. Women now have more choices, and freedom regarding dress and this is directly reflected upon their professional lives. Women have more education and career choices now as well. Society has also changed because of this new tradition. Society now accepts women in a professional sense, as attractive without being overly feminine, and as a successful contributing member of society. More equality between men and women can be witnessed, and it is no longer just the mans role to provide for his family. Men and women are doing this together.
With any new tradition there is resistance. Not everyone is accepting of this new tradition. Some powerful men are not ready to stand side by side with a women, work below a women, or look past the clothing. Inevitably, change and acceptance take time. One very successful and influential woman has had to deal with the backlash. Hilary Clinton, a senator from New York, recently ran for office in the 2008 election. She quickly became known for signature, streamlined pant suits. While some did not comment on the matter, others harshly criticized her. In the article “Wearing the Pants” in the “Washington Post” by Robin Givhan the author states, “The pantsuit is Clinton's uniform. Hers is a mix-and-match world, a grown-up land of Garanimals: black pants with gray jacket, tan jacket with black pants, tan jacket with tan pants. There are a host of reasons to explain Clinton's attachment to pantsuits. They are comfortable. They can be flattering, although not when the jacket hem aligns with the widest part of the hips (hypothetically speaking, of course). Does she even have hips?” Clinton is dressing how she chooses, an option not available many years ago. She is also trying to keep up with, and fit in to the corporate world. Unfortunately for Clinton, until this new tradition is widely accepted and tolerated, she will have to face the negativity and scrutiny.
As this tradition changed, society changed. Women have moved from the homemaker role in feminine clothes, to a professional, successful role in masculine clothing. Society has adjusted to this change in tradition, and as a result has become more accepting of women in general. The media, celebrities, and magazines are also helping to make this new tradition widely acceptable, and available. Women have more freedom concerning clothing options, and their role in society due to this new tradition.
Traditions have existed throughout history. Most were established many, many decades ago by people living in a different time. Typically most traditions remain unaltered throughout the years. However, occasionally a new tradition will be created, or an old tradition will be changed to accommodate an ever changing world. One tradition that has changed throughout history is the style of women’s clothing. Women once were only seen in long dresses with feminine prints. Now the concept of men’s ware is prevalent. Women are wearing pants, power suits, blazers, and ties in every day attire. The freedom women have experienced in their clothing choices are reflected in their career choices, and every day activities. As women’s style of dress has become more masculine, their role and acceptance in society has also changed.
The traditional idea of women was once very limited. Women were only accepted by society if they wore dresses, skirts, or scarves with very feminine patterns. The majority of women were also homemakers; they cooked, cleaned, and took care of the children. There was a distinct separation between what was acceptable for a male, and what was acceptable for a female. Rarely, did the two mix worlds.
Today, those worlds mix. Women are wearing clothes that were once only tailored for men, and are becoming increasingly successful in the workplace. Women are seen in blazers, power suits, ties, and pants. Clothing stores, from high end to bargain, carry masculine clothes for women in muted colors. Celebrities, young and old, are photographed in men’s ware, and high profile magazines publish spreads geared towards men’s ware. Women also hold positions as high as CEO or CFO, senator, and editor. These looks and roles of women are now what are accepted by society.
People usually attribute the word tradition to the past, and believe traditions never change. Catherine G. Latterell states, “…traditions are practices that have been handed down to us by past generations” (176). Later she says, “The reality is that many traditions are more recent inventions” (177). When comparing the previous tradition of women’s clothing to the new masculine style of dress it is very clear that this tradition has changed. Women now have more choices, and freedom regarding dress and this is directly reflected upon their professional lives. Women have more education and career choices now as well. Society has also changed because of this new tradition. Society now accepts women in a professional sense, as attractive without being overly feminine, and as a successful contributing member of society. More equality between men and women can be witnessed, and it is no longer just the mans role to provide for his family. Men and women are doing this together.
With any new tradition there is resistance. Not everyone is accepting of this new tradition. Some powerful men are not ready to stand side by side with a women, work below a women, or look past the clothing. Inevitably, change and acceptance take time. One very successful and influential woman has had to deal with the backlash. Hilary Clinton, a senator from New York, recently ran for office in the 2008 election. She quickly became known for signature, streamlined pant suits. While some did not comment on the matter, others harshly criticized her. In the article “Wearing the Pants” in the “Washington Post” by Robin Givhan the author states, “The pantsuit is Clinton's uniform. Hers is a mix-and-match world, a grown-up land of Garanimals: black pants with gray jacket, tan jacket with black pants, tan jacket with tan pants. There are a host of reasons to explain Clinton's attachment to pantsuits. They are comfortable. They can be flattering, although not when the jacket hem aligns with the widest part of the hips (hypothetically speaking, of course). Does she even have hips?” Clinton is dressing how she chooses, an option not available many years ago. She is also trying to keep up with, and fit in to the corporate world. Unfortunately for Clinton, until this new tradition is widely accepted and tolerated, she will have to face the negativity and scrutiny.
As this tradition changed, society changed. Women have moved from the homemaker role in feminine clothes, to a professional, successful role in masculine clothing. Society has adjusted to this change in tradition, and as a result has become more accepting of women in general. The media, celebrities, and magazines are also helping to make this new tradition widely acceptable, and available. Women have more freedom concerning clothing options, and their role in society due to this new tradition.
My Identity
My Identity
When you first open my bright pink Dooney and Burk wallet you will see a variety of things. First off you will see my driver’s license (which is only a year old so you can get a pretty good idea of what I look like, how tall I am, and how much I weigh). Then you will see my bank card, Nordstrom credit card, Subway card, Blockbuster Video card, AAA card, American Red Cross Blood Donor card, and a few other “frequent buyer cards”. You will not find any cash, just a few random coins. In one of the pockets you can find my daily to-do list, my birth certificate, a book of stamps, my business cards, business cards from my favorite places to shop when I am on vacation, and all of my receipts. I do not have any pictures in my wallet; those are all on my cell phone. That is all you will find.
Based on the items in my wallet someone might be able to piece together a little bit about my identity. Mostly they would be able to tell my name, my sex, race, parent’s names, date of birth, place of birth, and what I look like including eye and hair color. They could also piece together that I like to shop, donate blood, track my finances (based on the receipts), am very organized, detail oriented, and slightly obsessive compulsive because every item clearly has its place. My driver’s license and birth certificate would be the items that give the most information about my identity because they show things about my birth and traits I cannot change.
However, the items in my wallet do not construct an accurate view of my identity. Incorrect assumptions could easily be made about me. For example, that I like to buy only name brands and care about my image too much, do not have close relationships with friends or family based on the lack of photos, and might possibly have a poor set of values. All of those assumptions would definitely be wrong.
What my wallet doesn’t show, is the real me. It only shows the materialistic and impersonal side. My wallet shows nothing about my values, beliefs, or the events that have shaped my life. A person looking at my wallet would never know that the reason I have name brand items is because I have a huge amount of responsibility at work and put in more then 60 hours a week. I am also incredibly determined to succeed so I reward myself at the end of a tough month. Also, I am extremely religious and was raised going to Church and even teach Sunday school. They also wouldn’t be able to tell that my friends and family are the most important part of my life. My relationships have a huge impact in my life, and I value each and every one of them. Someone would also never know that I recently became an “Aunt” for the first time and love watching my nephew grow and explore. They also wouldn’t be able to tell that I was raised by my grandparents because I do not have a father and my mom is disabled. I have a very traditional set of values, have been working and financially independent since I was 16 years old, and have lost three very close friends to drunk driving. Although the items in my wallet are important to me and give clues to my identity, they definitely do not represent the real me, my real identity.
When you first open my bright pink Dooney and Burk wallet you will see a variety of things. First off you will see my driver’s license (which is only a year old so you can get a pretty good idea of what I look like, how tall I am, and how much I weigh). Then you will see my bank card, Nordstrom credit card, Subway card, Blockbuster Video card, AAA card, American Red Cross Blood Donor card, and a few other “frequent buyer cards”. You will not find any cash, just a few random coins. In one of the pockets you can find my daily to-do list, my birth certificate, a book of stamps, my business cards, business cards from my favorite places to shop when I am on vacation, and all of my receipts. I do not have any pictures in my wallet; those are all on my cell phone. That is all you will find.
Based on the items in my wallet someone might be able to piece together a little bit about my identity. Mostly they would be able to tell my name, my sex, race, parent’s names, date of birth, place of birth, and what I look like including eye and hair color. They could also piece together that I like to shop, donate blood, track my finances (based on the receipts), am very organized, detail oriented, and slightly obsessive compulsive because every item clearly has its place. My driver’s license and birth certificate would be the items that give the most information about my identity because they show things about my birth and traits I cannot change.
However, the items in my wallet do not construct an accurate view of my identity. Incorrect assumptions could easily be made about me. For example, that I like to buy only name brands and care about my image too much, do not have close relationships with friends or family based on the lack of photos, and might possibly have a poor set of values. All of those assumptions would definitely be wrong.
What my wallet doesn’t show, is the real me. It only shows the materialistic and impersonal side. My wallet shows nothing about my values, beliefs, or the events that have shaped my life. A person looking at my wallet would never know that the reason I have name brand items is because I have a huge amount of responsibility at work and put in more then 60 hours a week. I am also incredibly determined to succeed so I reward myself at the end of a tough month. Also, I am extremely religious and was raised going to Church and even teach Sunday school. They also wouldn’t be able to tell that my friends and family are the most important part of my life. My relationships have a huge impact in my life, and I value each and every one of them. Someone would also never know that I recently became an “Aunt” for the first time and love watching my nephew grow and explore. They also wouldn’t be able to tell that I was raised by my grandparents because I do not have a father and my mom is disabled. I have a very traditional set of values, have been working and financially independent since I was 16 years old, and have lost three very close friends to drunk driving. Although the items in my wallet are important to me and give clues to my identity, they definitely do not represent the real me, my real identity.
Culture Influences Identity
Original Essay: Culture Influences Identity
Identity is influenced by many factors, with some more obvious then others. Gender and ethnicity are the most obvious traits to recognize, which leads other contributing factors to be overlooked, for example, culture. Culture plays a large role in each person’s identity but because it cannot be seen when just looking at an individual it goes unnoticed. There are two essays that demonstrate the influence and role culture has on identity; “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson, and “F-Word” by Firoozh Dumas. The cultural influence a person is surrounded by plays a large role in the development of their identity.
Culture is the combination of values, beliefs, and practices of a particular group. The culture each person lives in shows them how to dress, talk, act, acceptable behavior, and gives a guideline of what is considered acceptable and normal. As a child grows up in a particular culture they absorb the beliefs, and practices, then begin to use them in everyday activities. This process is known as acculturation. Remix, by Catherine G. Latterell, touches on the idea of acculturation. According to Latterell acculturation is “the process by which we absorb the practices, attitudes, and beliefs of particular social groups” (10). The culture a person is surrounded by will then play a role in the development of their identity. Identity is essentially a set a characteristics and traits that are attributed to one specific person.
Identities are specific and unique for each person. Because identity is different from one person to the next, there is the chance that the society a person exists in will not be fully accepting. Latterell states “the social and cultural forces that help shape our sense of identity are not neutral. Instead, they operate like a powerful lens through which we make judgments about ourselves and others” (10). The culture may pass judgment, which in turn will cause the individual to question their identity, their sense of self. The individual will either use the judgment to shape their identity in another direction, or re enforces their established and strong sense of self. Either way, identity is influenced by the culture.
An essay that demonstrates how culture influences identity is “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson. Wilson talks about her experience as a pretty woman with short hair. She states that her having short hair has nothing to do with identity confusion, she just finds it easier. Her story includes anecdotes about two men of different backgrounds imposing society’s views of how women should look on her. She states “people get so twisted over female presentation and what exactly is feminine that my bald head is cause for pause” (22). She goes on to say “Then I stopped myself when I realized I almost let some fool have power over me. I am a black woman whose bald head makes me invisible to some, boyish to others, and beautiful to me” (23). This quote shows the reader that Wilson has a strong sense of self, a strong identity. She was not about to let a cultural view impact her identity. It in fact, only strengthened her identity. It also shows that there is a standard set of ideas within a culture, and differences are not always accepted.
Another woman who had to endure the pressure of cultures ideas is Firoozeh Dumas. In the essay “The F Word” she explains her decision to change her ethnic Iranian name to a more American name. She wanted to do this because the culture around her showed her that in order to fit in she should have a one or two syllable name. She says, “I wanted to be a kid with a name that didn’t draw so much attention, a name that didn’t come with a built-in inquisition as to when and why I had moved to America and how was it that I spoke English without an accent and was I planning on going back and what did I think of America?”(61). She chose the name Julie because of its simplicity, but after a while she “felt like a fake” (62). She eventually changed her name back to Firoozeh because her life became too complicated and she “felt like those characters in soap operas who have an evil twin” (62). Because of the name change she essentially lost her identity. She no longer felt like herself. Her history, heritage, and sense of self were in her name, and once that was gone so was a part of her identity. The culture she was surrounded by influenced Dumas to change her name to fit in. The culture influenced Dumas’ identity.
Culture influences identity. Weather negative or positive, the culture a person exists in impacts their identity. Both Wilson and Dumas’ identities were affected by the culture around them. Dumas tried to change her identity to fit in and be accepted, only to realize that she no longer felt like herself. Wilson had her strong sense of identity confirmed because of society imposing their views. Culture plays an important role in shaping identities.
Revised Essay: Culture Influences Identity
Identity is influenced by many factors, with some more obvious then others. Gender and ethnicity are the most obvious traits to recognize, which leads other contributing factors to be overlooked, for example, culture. Culture plays a large role in each person’s identity but because it cannot be seen when just looking at an individual it goes unnoticed. There are two essays that demonstrate the influence and role culture has on identity; “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson, and “F-Word” by Firoozh Dumas. The cultural influence a person is surrounded by plays a large role in the development of their identity.
Culture is the combination of values, beliefs, and practices of a particular group. The culture each person lives in shows them how to dress, talk, act, acceptable behavior, and gives a guideline of what is considered acceptable and normal. As a child grows up in a particular culture they absorb the beliefs, and practices, then begin to use them in everyday activities. This process is known as acculturation. Remix, by Catherine G. Latterell, touches on the idea of acculturation. According to Latterell acculturation is “the process by which we absorb the practices, attitudes, and beliefs of particular social groups” (10). The culture a person is surrounded by will then play a role in the development of their identity. Identity is essentially a set a characteristics and traits that are attributed to one specific person.
Identities are specific and unique for each person. Because identity is different from one person to the next, there is the chance that the society a person exists in will not be fully accepting. Latterell states “the social and cultural forces that help shape our sense of identity are not neutral. Instead, they operate like a powerful lens through which we make judgments about ourselves and others” (10). The culture may pass judgment, which in turn will cause the individual to question their identity, their sense of self. The individual will either use the judgment to shape their identity in another direction, or re enforces their established and strong sense of self. Either way, identity is influenced by the culture.
An essay that demonstrates how culture influences identity is “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson. Wilson talks about her experience as a pretty woman with short hair. She states that her having short hair has nothing to do with identity confusion, she just finds it easier. Her story includes anecdotes about two men of different backgrounds imposing society’s views of how women should look on her. She states “people get so twisted over female presentation and what exactly is feminine that my bald head is cause for pause” (22). She goes on to say “Then I stopped myself when I realized I almost let some fool have power over me. I am a black woman whose bald head makes me invisible to some, boyish to others, and beautiful to me” (23). This quote shows the reader that Wilson has a strong sense of self, a strong identity. She was not about to let a cultural view impact her identity. It in fact, only strengthened her identity. It also shows that there is a standard set of ideas within a culture, and differences are not always accepted.
Another woman who had to endure the pressure of cultures ideas is Firoozeh Dumas. In the essay “The F Word” she explains her decision to change her ethnic Iranian name to a more American name. She wanted to do this because the culture around her showed her that in order to fit in she should have a one or two syllable name. She says, “I wanted to be a kid with a name that didn’t draw so much attention, a name that didn’t come with a built-in inquisition as to when and why I had moved to America and how was it that I spoke English without an accent and was I planning on going back and what did I think of America?”(61). She chose the name Julie because of its simplicity, but after a while she “felt like a fake” (62). She eventually changed her name back to Firoozeh because her life became too complicated and she “felt like those characters in soap operas who have an evil twin” (62). Because of the name change she essentially lost her identity. She no longer felt like herself. Her history, heritage, and sense of self were in her name, and once that was gone so was a part of her identity. The culture she was surrounded by influenced Dumas to change her name to fit in. The culture influenced Dumas’ identity.
Culture influences identity. Weather negative or positive, the culture a person exists in impacts their identity. Both Wilson and Dumas’ identities were affected by the culture around them. Dumas tried to change her identity to fit in and be accepted, only to realize that she no longer felt like herself. Wilson had her strong sense of identity confirmed because of society imposing their views. Culture plays an important role in shaping identities.
Identity is influenced by many factors, with some more obvious then others. Gender and ethnicity are the most obvious traits to recognize, which leads other contributing factors to be overlooked, for example, culture. Culture plays a large role in each person’s identity but because it cannot be seen when just looking at an individual it goes unnoticed. There are two essays that demonstrate the influence and role culture has on identity; “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson, and “F-Word” by Firoozh Dumas. The cultural influence a person is surrounded by plays a large role in the development of their identity.
Culture is the combination of values, beliefs, and practices of a particular group. The culture each person lives in shows them how to dress, talk, act, acceptable behavior, and gives a guideline of what is considered acceptable and normal. As a child grows up in a particular culture they absorb the beliefs, and practices, then begin to use them in everyday activities. This process is known as acculturation. Remix, by Catherine G. Latterell, touches on the idea of acculturation. According to Latterell acculturation is “the process by which we absorb the practices, attitudes, and beliefs of particular social groups” (10). The culture a person is surrounded by will then play a role in the development of their identity. Identity is essentially a set a characteristics and traits that are attributed to one specific person.
Identities are specific and unique for each person. Because identity is different from one person to the next, there is the chance that the society a person exists in will not be fully accepting. Latterell states “the social and cultural forces that help shape our sense of identity are not neutral. Instead, they operate like a powerful lens through which we make judgments about ourselves and others” (10). The culture may pass judgment, which in turn will cause the individual to question their identity, their sense of self. The individual will either use the judgment to shape their identity in another direction, or re enforces their established and strong sense of self. Either way, identity is influenced by the culture.
An essay that demonstrates how culture influences identity is “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson. Wilson talks about her experience as a pretty woman with short hair. She states that her having short hair has nothing to do with identity confusion, she just finds it easier. Her story includes anecdotes about two men of different backgrounds imposing society’s views of how women should look on her. She states “people get so twisted over female presentation and what exactly is feminine that my bald head is cause for pause” (22). She goes on to say “Then I stopped myself when I realized I almost let some fool have power over me. I am a black woman whose bald head makes me invisible to some, boyish to others, and beautiful to me” (23). This quote shows the reader that Wilson has a strong sense of self, a strong identity. She was not about to let a cultural view impact her identity. It in fact, only strengthened her identity. It also shows that there is a standard set of ideas within a culture, and differences are not always accepted.
Another woman who had to endure the pressure of cultures ideas is Firoozeh Dumas. In the essay “The F Word” she explains her decision to change her ethnic Iranian name to a more American name. She wanted to do this because the culture around her showed her that in order to fit in she should have a one or two syllable name. She says, “I wanted to be a kid with a name that didn’t draw so much attention, a name that didn’t come with a built-in inquisition as to when and why I had moved to America and how was it that I spoke English without an accent and was I planning on going back and what did I think of America?”(61). She chose the name Julie because of its simplicity, but after a while she “felt like a fake” (62). She eventually changed her name back to Firoozeh because her life became too complicated and she “felt like those characters in soap operas who have an evil twin” (62). Because of the name change she essentially lost her identity. She no longer felt like herself. Her history, heritage, and sense of self were in her name, and once that was gone so was a part of her identity. The culture she was surrounded by influenced Dumas to change her name to fit in. The culture influenced Dumas’ identity.
Culture influences identity. Weather negative or positive, the culture a person exists in impacts their identity. Both Wilson and Dumas’ identities were affected by the culture around them. Dumas tried to change her identity to fit in and be accepted, only to realize that she no longer felt like herself. Wilson had her strong sense of identity confirmed because of society imposing their views. Culture plays an important role in shaping identities.
Revised Essay: Culture Influences Identity
Identity is influenced by many factors, with some more obvious then others. Gender and ethnicity are the most obvious traits to recognize, which leads other contributing factors to be overlooked, for example, culture. Culture plays a large role in each person’s identity but because it cannot be seen when just looking at an individual it goes unnoticed. There are two essays that demonstrate the influence and role culture has on identity; “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson, and “F-Word” by Firoozh Dumas. The cultural influence a person is surrounded by plays a large role in the development of their identity.
Culture is the combination of values, beliefs, and practices of a particular group. The culture each person lives in shows them how to dress, talk, act, acceptable behavior, and gives a guideline of what is considered acceptable and normal. As a child grows up in a particular culture they absorb the beliefs, and practices, then begin to use them in everyday activities. This process is known as acculturation. Remix, by Catherine G. Latterell, touches on the idea of acculturation. According to Latterell acculturation is “the process by which we absorb the practices, attitudes, and beliefs of particular social groups” (10). The culture a person is surrounded by will then play a role in the development of their identity. Identity is essentially a set a characteristics and traits that are attributed to one specific person.
Identities are specific and unique for each person. Because identity is different from one person to the next, there is the chance that the society a person exists in will not be fully accepting. Latterell states “the social and cultural forces that help shape our sense of identity are not neutral. Instead, they operate like a powerful lens through which we make judgments about ourselves and others” (10). The culture may pass judgment, which in turn will cause the individual to question their identity, their sense of self. The individual will either use the judgment to shape their identity in another direction, or re enforces their established and strong sense of self. Either way, identity is influenced by the culture.
An essay that demonstrates how culture influences identity is “Dude Looks like a Lady” by Kathy Wilson. Wilson talks about her experience as a pretty woman with short hair. She states that her having short hair has nothing to do with identity confusion, she just finds it easier. Her story includes anecdotes about two men of different backgrounds imposing society’s views of how women should look on her. She states “people get so twisted over female presentation and what exactly is feminine that my bald head is cause for pause” (22). She goes on to say “Then I stopped myself when I realized I almost let some fool have power over me. I am a black woman whose bald head makes me invisible to some, boyish to others, and beautiful to me” (23). This quote shows the reader that Wilson has a strong sense of self, a strong identity. She was not about to let a cultural view impact her identity. It in fact, only strengthened her identity. It also shows that there is a standard set of ideas within a culture, and differences are not always accepted.
Another woman who had to endure the pressure of cultures ideas is Firoozeh Dumas. In the essay “The F Word” she explains her decision to change her ethnic Iranian name to a more American name. She wanted to do this because the culture around her showed her that in order to fit in she should have a one or two syllable name. She says, “I wanted to be a kid with a name that didn’t draw so much attention, a name that didn’t come with a built-in inquisition as to when and why I had moved to America and how was it that I spoke English without an accent and was I planning on going back and what did I think of America?”(61). She chose the name Julie because of its simplicity, but after a while she “felt like a fake” (62). She eventually changed her name back to Firoozeh because her life became too complicated and she “felt like those characters in soap operas who have an evil twin” (62). Because of the name change she essentially lost her identity. She no longer felt like herself. Her history, heritage, and sense of self were in her name, and once that was gone so was a part of her identity. The culture she was surrounded by influenced Dumas to change her name to fit in. The culture influenced Dumas’ identity.
Culture influences identity. Weather negative or positive, the culture a person exists in impacts their identity. Both Wilson and Dumas’ identities were affected by the culture around them. Dumas tried to change her identity to fit in and be accepted, only to realize that she no longer felt like herself. Wilson had her strong sense of identity confirmed because of society imposing their views. Culture plays an important role in shaping identities.
A Shift in Communities
A Shift in Communities
Many years ago the town of Grants Pass, Oregon was small, but obviously growing. In that time it was not uncommon for neighbors and neighborhoods to come together to celebrate holidays, milestones in each others lives, or lend a helping hand to a neighbor in need. As soon as the town began to fill up with fast food franchises, large grocery store chains, and the residents began using technology in every day life the neighborhoods began to drift apart. Now most of the neighborhoods never celebrate together, offer help, or know each other’s names. As this town grew and developed the importance and role of each neighborhood community has made a drastic shift and is hardly seen.
Gerald Stull was a proud resident of Grants Pass in its “better days,” as he put it. He recalls his neighborhood throwing him a huge BBQ to celebrate the birth of his first grandchild, Bill (his neighbor) helping him build the large cedar deck around his house, and the neighborhood kids sneaking apples out of his back yard. Gerald says “my favorite was the 4th of July party we had. Tons of food, fireworks, and people.” He also remembers going fishing with the local grocery store owner, and getting vanilla ice cream cones at Pipers Drive In. When asked to describe his community in a few words he sighs and says, “Friendly and simple.”
I grew up in Grants Pass, but during a time other then the one Gerald describes. I grew up eating McDonalds (not the classic Pipers Drive In), using computers and cell phones, and going to pizza places to celebrate birthdays. Now that I am older, and on my own (I live next door to Gerald now), I make sure my car and house are always locked, and have no idea what my neighbors do for a living. I don’t even know any of my neighbor’s names (I never felt the need to reach out). The friendly local businesses Gerald told me about have been replaced with Albertsons, Wal-Mart, and Shell Stations. The words busy and congested describe the town now. It is hard to even picture the town Gerald describes because nothing is how it once was.
In Grants Pass’ “better days,” it was clear that the neighborhood communities once played a large role in its resident’s lives. They shared traditions like 4th of July parties, offered help and support, and were accepting of one another. They were solid, stable communities because the residents did not have as many opportunities to seek a sense of community else where. In those same neighborhoods today, practically none of the aspects of communities can be witnessed. Remix by Catherine G. Latterell states “When we need help, the assumption is that our community will come together to offer it” (90). In today’s times, that assumption does not hold true. People now look for help from the government and its agencies, and from strangers, instead of seeking out a familiar neighbor.
Communities of the past also offered a strong sense of friendship and lifelong relationships. With things like social networking sites, email, and cell phones residents of a neighborhood no longer have to go next door to find a friend. Simply logging in can give a person access to hundreds, even thousands of friends, which is lessening the importance of neighborhood communities. In “You Are Who You Know” Andrew Leonard says “our most important relationships and communities are no longer primarily determined by family and geography” (155). The residents of today’s communities are gaining that sense of community from places other then their physical neighborhood.
Neighborhood communities once prevalent in its resident’s lives are practically nonexistent in the neighborhoods of today. With items like cell phones and the internet people do not feel inclined to share their life with a neighbor, or simply introduce themselves and develop a bond. Technology has made access to people so simple and readily available that there is no need to develop relationships within a neighborhood. Neighborhood communities are not as important, and serve a much smaller role in its resident’s lives when compared to the neighborhoods of the past. The community Gerald remembers no longer exists today.
Many years ago the town of Grants Pass, Oregon was small, but obviously growing. In that time it was not uncommon for neighbors and neighborhoods to come together to celebrate holidays, milestones in each others lives, or lend a helping hand to a neighbor in need. As soon as the town began to fill up with fast food franchises, large grocery store chains, and the residents began using technology in every day life the neighborhoods began to drift apart. Now most of the neighborhoods never celebrate together, offer help, or know each other’s names. As this town grew and developed the importance and role of each neighborhood community has made a drastic shift and is hardly seen.
Gerald Stull was a proud resident of Grants Pass in its “better days,” as he put it. He recalls his neighborhood throwing him a huge BBQ to celebrate the birth of his first grandchild, Bill (his neighbor) helping him build the large cedar deck around his house, and the neighborhood kids sneaking apples out of his back yard. Gerald says “my favorite was the 4th of July party we had. Tons of food, fireworks, and people.” He also remembers going fishing with the local grocery store owner, and getting vanilla ice cream cones at Pipers Drive In. When asked to describe his community in a few words he sighs and says, “Friendly and simple.”
I grew up in Grants Pass, but during a time other then the one Gerald describes. I grew up eating McDonalds (not the classic Pipers Drive In), using computers and cell phones, and going to pizza places to celebrate birthdays. Now that I am older, and on my own (I live next door to Gerald now), I make sure my car and house are always locked, and have no idea what my neighbors do for a living. I don’t even know any of my neighbor’s names (I never felt the need to reach out). The friendly local businesses Gerald told me about have been replaced with Albertsons, Wal-Mart, and Shell Stations. The words busy and congested describe the town now. It is hard to even picture the town Gerald describes because nothing is how it once was.
In Grants Pass’ “better days,” it was clear that the neighborhood communities once played a large role in its resident’s lives. They shared traditions like 4th of July parties, offered help and support, and were accepting of one another. They were solid, stable communities because the residents did not have as many opportunities to seek a sense of community else where. In those same neighborhoods today, practically none of the aspects of communities can be witnessed. Remix by Catherine G. Latterell states “When we need help, the assumption is that our community will come together to offer it” (90). In today’s times, that assumption does not hold true. People now look for help from the government and its agencies, and from strangers, instead of seeking out a familiar neighbor.
Communities of the past also offered a strong sense of friendship and lifelong relationships. With things like social networking sites, email, and cell phones residents of a neighborhood no longer have to go next door to find a friend. Simply logging in can give a person access to hundreds, even thousands of friends, which is lessening the importance of neighborhood communities. In “You Are Who You Know” Andrew Leonard says “our most important relationships and communities are no longer primarily determined by family and geography” (155). The residents of today’s communities are gaining that sense of community from places other then their physical neighborhood.
Neighborhood communities once prevalent in its resident’s lives are practically nonexistent in the neighborhoods of today. With items like cell phones and the internet people do not feel inclined to share their life with a neighbor, or simply introduce themselves and develop a bond. Technology has made access to people so simple and readily available that there is no need to develop relationships within a neighborhood. Neighborhood communities are not as important, and serve a much smaller role in its resident’s lives when compared to the neighborhoods of the past. The community Gerald remembers no longer exists today.
Freedom To Choose
Freedom To Choose
“Men’s Ware Changed Tradition” is a paper that shows the culmination of the knowledge and skills I have gained. I feel that this was some of my best writing (however, not perfect), and I am proud of this paper. Very rarely do I enjoy writing a paper, or have the freedom to choose a topic I am interested in. This paper gave me the freedom to write about a pop-culture trend that I participate in, which in turn made me eager to write. Being able to write about a topic I experience daily also made this paper strong, and meaningful.
“Men’s Ware Changed Tradition” is a paper that shows the culmination of the knowledge and skills I have gained. I feel that this was some of my best writing (however, not perfect), and I am proud of this paper. Very rarely do I enjoy writing a paper, or have the freedom to choose a topic I am interested in. This paper gave me the freedom to write about a pop-culture trend that I participate in, which in turn made me eager to write. Being able to write about a topic I experience daily also made this paper strong, and meaningful.
Public Posting
Public Posting
“My Identity” is a piece that can be read and enjoyed by anyone, at anytime. This piece has many aspects that the audience will be able to relate to, and initiate some thinking. This was an exciting piece to write because it allowed me to evaluate what my personal possessions represent. It was also exciting because it was posted in a very public place; a blog. I kept that in mind while writing. I did not want to include too much personal information, or any thoughts that would be too controversial (the point of the piece was to be entertaining, not cause controversy). Posting in a public space made me more aware of the audience, and the content of my writing.
“My Identity” is a piece that can be read and enjoyed by anyone, at anytime. This piece has many aspects that the audience will be able to relate to, and initiate some thinking. This was an exciting piece to write because it allowed me to evaluate what my personal possessions represent. It was also exciting because it was posted in a very public place; a blog. I kept that in mind while writing. I did not want to include too much personal information, or any thoughts that would be too controversial (the point of the piece was to be entertaining, not cause controversy). Posting in a public space made me more aware of the audience, and the content of my writing.
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