Lamenting

In both classes, we finished Grendel, analyzed "The Wife's Lament," and passed out the New Historicist essay assignment, which will be due in the following order: chart Tuesday, introductory paragraph block day, first draft Friday, final draft Monday. I will go over this critical lens more on Monday, but, in brief, New Historicism looks at the ideology permeating a culture and how (a) the literature reflects the stereotypical ideology and how (b) the literature offers further interpretation, contrast, or qualities not considered to be connected with this ideology. At this point, start considering what ideology you fill would be best to analyze.

In regards to the lamenting and catharsis, October 6 is one of the most difficult days of the year for me. On October 6, 1992, 25 years ago today, my grandmother, Frances Hedwig Schroer, passed away at age 68. This entire week has been one of memory and one of loss. Grandma Frances was the epitome of kindness, grace, fashion, and love. When I was a child, she would tell me stories about her childhood, the hard life that she had to live, the factories that she would work in her entire adult life, and always end the stories with it was worth every experience to eventually "have a granddaughter like you." Losing someone like that is always difficult, and it has become even more so with the realization that I have spent more years without her than with her. I have been wearing her jewelry this week, looking down at my fingers and wrist to try to pull another memory of her - some of which are lost to time.

I can't force you to do this as an assignment, but if you are still fortunate to have grandparents in your life, I would recommend giving them a call, writing them a note, or seeing them this weekend. I know we all come from different family situations, but if you do have a relationship with your grandparents, it is something that you should cherish, build upon, and revere for the times when you will not have the opportunity to give them a hug.