I have always loved Beetlejuice. This love affair has been going on since... well going on since as far back as I can honestly remember. Come to think of it, I think my sister still has the VHS tape which my parents bought for us, back when the film was first released. So I would have to imagine that at the very least, Beetlejuice is responsible for the first F-bomb these precious ears of mine had ever heard. Moreover however, Beetlejuice is certainly responsible for my first ever encounter into the world of dark humor: Comedy involving death, causing people to laugh because it's funny. Still however I am troubled. I'm troubled with this selection because I'm not entirely sure if it was the idea behind the movie (bio-exorcist from hell learning to cope with the Deets family from the north) or if it was simply Michael Keaton's interpretation of the character that's forcing me to select Beetlejuice, and Honor the movie for basically creating the man I am today.
I feel obligated to mention that only because I own a very large collection of Michael Keaton movies, and it would suffice to say that I have seen... nope memorized, rather, more Michael Douglas "Keaton" quotes than everybody in Michigan combined- including any, or all of his own personal family members. It is almost a sort of fetish, though I try not to think of it like that.
Aside all that however I believe my selection is still highly admirable. As Tim Burton very simply introduces his audience (by killing off the two main characters within the first five- ten minutes) to an underground world where everybody is dead, yet everybody is still content. And I imagine that like the rest of the world, my young developing mind was easily able to recognize how both the charcoal burnt chain smoker, and the lady reading the magazine- next to her decapitated legs- were actually dead. Well not just dead people, more like the "recently deceased" patiently waiting in a lobby to talk with their case workers. So as a young 2,3,4 or whatever year old, it would have been very clear to me off, right off the bat that neither Alec Baldwin or Geena Davis, much like the football team, had survived the crash. However if that had slipped my mind, it wouldn't have taken long for either Juno, Otho, or the Deets' to later explain it to me.
The impact that this movie has made on my life however, is far more vivid and explainable than any of my first 30 viewings of the movie combined. And probably my last 10 or so, due to the dangerously heavy drinking game that my brother and I often play while watching it. But the impact is still clear, and travels much further into the makeup of my brain than just my unknowingly, habitual tendencies which cause me to steal many or all of Michael Keaton's mannerisms.
The movie changed my life because I saw it a thousand times. We didn't have many movies, and this was the only one that my sister and I could agree to watch together. I thought it was funny, and she thought Alec Baldwin was hot. Non the less I've seen the movie too much. So much in fact that the mere thought of death (generally ghost and underworld claims) nearly always brings up an habitual association with the movie: Beetlejuice. I have seen this movie so many times that I often quote lines aloud, after similar moments from the movie arise. An example for instance would be
The Radio: A man and wife were found dead today......
Everything appearing after the elicits can be depicted as my thoughts trailing off into the movie.
So in a nutshell I'd have to claim that this movie has altered my life to the point where I not only steal it's prized character's mannerisms... I eat, live, sleep, and crave it. And because of all this (Tim Burton and Michael Keaton) I have learned to treat death as it's own sort of character, even within my own writing. As I am recently handed in a short story for workshop where an Englishman in Canada is planning to leap off from his building, while an elderly American woman with binoculars can't stop starring at his teeth. Eventually he jumps and it is described like a Bidet.
I hope Beetlejuice is as helpful to you as it has always been for me.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
My Paper
I'm planning to base my paper around both dark comedy and satire, with emphasis on how the Coen brothers have influenced both. The paper will focus more on earlier movies such as The Hudsucker Proxy, Fargo, and possibly The Big Lebowski and Intolerable Cruelty as well... And if I have time Raising Arizona. I know that I have been influenced heavily by their work, and I'm guessing that I am not the only one, especially since another person from class had shared the same topic idea as well.
My goal will be first be to explore how important both their creative themes (kidnapping, larson) can be when instilled within the right setting, and dialogue. As IMDB claims that the duo is notorious for making their cast recite each line strictly in order with the script. This tells me that if nothing else, the brothers certainly know how to place themselves in the shoes of anybody they choose, as many of their movies go on to collect nominations, and awards, many times over. As for setting, Films such as Fargo and Hudsucker proxy really nail each movie's setting to a satire crucifix, creating characters so perfect that nobody could ever forget. Characters such as Marge from Fargo, and Amy Archer, the speed talking woman from The Hudsucker Proxy, just to name a few. And the impact each movie made on the way we view dark comedy in general, while specifically focusing on their very dark themes. Again, those generally being Kidnapping, Death, and Larson, and sometimes all three.
I am still deciding whether or not to include the duo's camera work as well. As I find it almost equally important, but then again they generally tend to employ some of the best cinematographers in the country. Those being Roger Deakins and Barry Sonnenfeld. With Sonnenfeld of course going on to do the Addams Family. Another topic I quasi-considered exploring.
My goal will be first be to explore how important both their creative themes (kidnapping, larson) can be when instilled within the right setting, and dialogue. As IMDB claims that the duo is notorious for making their cast recite each line strictly in order with the script. This tells me that if nothing else, the brothers certainly know how to place themselves in the shoes of anybody they choose, as many of their movies go on to collect nominations, and awards, many times over. As for setting, Films such as Fargo and Hudsucker proxy really nail each movie's setting to a satire crucifix, creating characters so perfect that nobody could ever forget. Characters such as Marge from Fargo, and Amy Archer, the speed talking woman from The Hudsucker Proxy, just to name a few. And the impact each movie made on the way we view dark comedy in general, while specifically focusing on their very dark themes. Again, those generally being Kidnapping, Death, and Larson, and sometimes all three.
I am still deciding whether or not to include the duo's camera work as well. As I find it almost equally important, but then again they generally tend to employ some of the best cinematographers in the country. Those being Roger Deakins and Barry Sonnenfeld. With Sonnenfeld of course going on to do the Addams Family. Another topic I quasi-considered exploring.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Year of the Madden
The Madden Curse
In the world of sports, most American men would argue that Football has become the most exciting of all the nationally syndicated programs to watch. Or in other words: The Favorite. And why not? Football’s a very powerful, not to mention demanding game performed by equally respected coaches, and athletes alike. Most with a wife and kids. However some sports figures are more powerful than others. And as far as football is concerned, nobody is more highly respected than the man standing in the booth, every Sunday night, calling the games. That’s right, John Madden. A hall of fame coach turned broadcaster, famous for his Christ-like career winning percentage, and equally goofy “Raider Nation” third world-like fan base. Recently though, this Madden guy has acquired a much broader, more youthful crowd. As evidenced by the hit video game series, sharing the same name: Madden. Or as some have begun to refer to as, “Madden Nation”.
Anyways, it is no secret to the gamming community that John Madden has little-to-none influence, or anything to do with for that matter, with the actual video game itself. This has been made obvious by the games decision to simply recycle Madden’s personal quotes, and pass each on from video game to video game, year after year, with no change what so ever.
One thing about the game however is never recycled, and furthermore, is proudly altered each and every year. And for those of you who haven’t guessed it yet, that’s the picture on the cover, next to Madden’s name. This brings me to the topic of this article, The Madden Curse. A little known conspiracy amongst the working class, but to the few of us in the know (mainly high school virgins and college dropouts), this is arguably one of the most peculiar queries of all existence. As the curse has successfully struck both misery and misfortune upon all who have agreed to lend their face to the ungrateful cover, starting with Madden ’99, and still flowing strong to this very day.
Garriston Hearst, a running back for the San Francisco 49er’s, unfortunately was first to fall victim to the jaws of Madden. As he completed the 98 season with career highs in both yards gained, and TDs scored. Only to break his ankle on the first snap of the divisional round in the playoffs that same year. Hearst would not return to the game for another 3 seasons. Barry Sanders was the second player chosen to star on the cover, for the following season, where he was expected to easily break the NFL’s All time rushing record, held then by former Bears Running Back, Walter Payton. However, just a week before the NFL’s training camp was to begin, Barry suspiciously decided to hang up his cleats, and retire from the game forever. An event very much still despised, and sickened by Michigan homeowners around the world. And although no documented evidence has ever successfully linked Madden, EA Sports, or John Madden himself, to Barry’s more than curious departure from the game- People have begun to wonder. And now they’re beginning to speak.
“Barry’s a piece of shit. He always has been, and he always will be. If you ask me, he got off light. If I were John Madden… well like I said. He got off easy.” Matt Parish said; a former fan of the former NFL icon, and a one time member of the Barry Sander’s super fan club.
Barry was not the last to be infected by the curse however. As each new Madden year is represented by a completely new and different face, with a whole heap of trouble sure to follow. I have compiled a list complete with each Madden year, followed directly by both the player chosen to star on the cover, and the terrible shit he was forced to suffer.
2001- Eddie George: Turf Toe, followed by a Career low in Rushing yards. Eddie never amassed more than 3.4 yards a carry in a season. For the rest of his career.
2002- Daunte Culpepper: Back injury, threw 14 interceptions the first half of the season. 3 years later the curse would resurface and tear his ACL, leading to his team’s decision to release him. He was later forced to play, not only for the Dolphins, who suck- But the Raiders, who are worse.
2003- Marshal Faulk: Ankle. Later signed a small contract with Campbell’s soup company. Very strange.
2004- Michael Vick: Vowed never to cut his dread locks until he lead his team to the Super bowl. Is currently awaiting his trial, where he is expected to serve time in prison for his contribution, and underground sponsorship of a ring of illegal dog fighting with his friends. He has since paid for multiple haircuts.
2005- Ray Lewis: Was injured during a game, though few people can actually remember why. It is assumed that this is a direct product of the Baltimore Ravens inability to remember how to win.
2006- Donovan McNabb: Sports Hernia. Lives in Philadelphia, where he is booed and cursed during nearly every home game he starts.
2007- Shaun Alexander: Fractured foot, missed 6 games, and was unable to reach at least 1,000 yards rushing for the first time in his career. During the same season, Ladanian Tomlinson of the Chargers, would go on to shatter Shaun’s single season TD record. Shaun has since then lost both his pro bowl left guard (Steve Hutchinson), alongside his pro bowl full back. Both were largely credited for Shaun’s previous success, prior to his multiple injuries.
2008- Vince Young: So far, Vince has suffered only a minor case of the sophomore slump- Though the season is still young. Then again, Vince has to play in front of a Tennessee crowd nearly every other week, for (at least) the next 6 years of his young Football career.
And there it is the Madden curse.
But if these players are aware of the “coincidences” which go onto follow the act of signing, not only their names, but apparently their souls as well, to the devils pipeline who goes by Madden… Well I suppose the question is simply why?
We asked several fans of both the sport, and the game, to comment on this. John Alpert, an undeclared freshman who asked to be anonymous, from Western Michigan University had only this to say.
“Well if they (The NFL) believe that the curse is real and not just a bunch of some… powered bologna, then why do they (The NFL) have to keep putting these players on the cover. It’s not only ruining it for the player, but for the team as well, not to mention the fans. “
Most people we asked were in complete agreement with what little Johnny had to say. But then, if the curse is real, where does Madden, and The NFL go from there?
“The NFL should start using the curse to its advantage. You know- cheer up the game a little” says John’s suitemate, a Canadian born sophomore from Winnipeg.
This was a good idea, I felt. So I went inside the Lions Locker room to ask some of the players how they felt, and to learn if either of their stars would ever consider accepting a paycheck to be on the cover. So I asked Tatum Bell what he thought, and he had only this to say. “Kevin Jones.” Other Lions were more jovial however, throwing out every hellish name they could think of from Hitler to the guy who shot Tupac, with one player even denouncing his wife. Strangely, team GM Matt Millen’s name was never mentioned. Though there are several photo shopped versions of the cover that can be found online, with Matt Millen’s face clearly shown behind the title.
Alas, and as stated before, the curse does not stop with the player. It goes all the way to the top. And standing there now, next to the great and powerful Madden is the newly appointed commissioner of the NFL, Roger Goodell. And with Roger Goodell’s recent commitment aimed toward cleaning up the game, or in other words, suspending any or all players convicted (sometimes simply alleged) of any crime or misdemeanor, it makes one wonder if he, as well, could possibly use this curse to his advantage. Perhaps instead of suspending his players for simple weapons, and dog murdering charges, Roger could offer to forward the curse onto these players as a modern day, type of doomsday device. Now obviously this isn’t the most traditional form of punishment- but it would be neat none the less. In fact, it wouldn’t be difficult at all. Realistically, Roger Goodell could easily just tear off a sheet of loose leaf paper, from anywhere, and create himself a simple ensemble of the NFL’s greatest douche-bags, while documenting each and every player to screw up during the season. And when time comes around for the next Madden cover, and as the devil waits happily by the bar, rubbing his palms; Goodell can simply arrange for a quite little photo shoot, and let nature take its course. Roger declined to comment.
However, and like always, the Reverend Al Sharpton was more than anxious to speak.
“I just cannot overlook the fact that all of these players are Black. There are still white people in the league right? You’re talking conspiracies; I’ll give you a conspiracy. 32 teams, 32 Quarterbacks. And out of those 32 teams, only 8 of those teams have a black starting Quarterback. So if we got 24 white Quarterbacks in the league, then why the hell does this guy subject half of our entire Quarterback population onto this damned curse, when they got 24 perfectly capable white alternatives, some of whom, which actually deserve to be cursed?
The pope declined to comment.
In the world of sports, most American men would argue that Football has become the most exciting of all the nationally syndicated programs to watch. Or in other words: The Favorite. And why not? Football’s a very powerful, not to mention demanding game performed by equally respected coaches, and athletes alike. Most with a wife and kids. However some sports figures are more powerful than others. And as far as football is concerned, nobody is more highly respected than the man standing in the booth, every Sunday night, calling the games. That’s right, John Madden. A hall of fame coach turned broadcaster, famous for his Christ-like career winning percentage, and equally goofy “Raider Nation” third world-like fan base. Recently though, this Madden guy has acquired a much broader, more youthful crowd. As evidenced by the hit video game series, sharing the same name: Madden. Or as some have begun to refer to as, “Madden Nation”.
Anyways, it is no secret to the gamming community that John Madden has little-to-none influence, or anything to do with for that matter, with the actual video game itself. This has been made obvious by the games decision to simply recycle Madden’s personal quotes, and pass each on from video game to video game, year after year, with no change what so ever.
One thing about the game however is never recycled, and furthermore, is proudly altered each and every year. And for those of you who haven’t guessed it yet, that’s the picture on the cover, next to Madden’s name. This brings me to the topic of this article, The Madden Curse. A little known conspiracy amongst the working class, but to the few of us in the know (mainly high school virgins and college dropouts), this is arguably one of the most peculiar queries of all existence. As the curse has successfully struck both misery and misfortune upon all who have agreed to lend their face to the ungrateful cover, starting with Madden ’99, and still flowing strong to this very day.
Garriston Hearst, a running back for the San Francisco 49er’s, unfortunately was first to fall victim to the jaws of Madden. As he completed the 98 season with career highs in both yards gained, and TDs scored. Only to break his ankle on the first snap of the divisional round in the playoffs that same year. Hearst would not return to the game for another 3 seasons. Barry Sanders was the second player chosen to star on the cover, for the following season, where he was expected to easily break the NFL’s All time rushing record, held then by former Bears Running Back, Walter Payton. However, just a week before the NFL’s training camp was to begin, Barry suspiciously decided to hang up his cleats, and retire from the game forever. An event very much still despised, and sickened by Michigan homeowners around the world. And although no documented evidence has ever successfully linked Madden, EA Sports, or John Madden himself, to Barry’s more than curious departure from the game- People have begun to wonder. And now they’re beginning to speak.
“Barry’s a piece of shit. He always has been, and he always will be. If you ask me, he got off light. If I were John Madden… well like I said. He got off easy.” Matt Parish said; a former fan of the former NFL icon, and a one time member of the Barry Sander’s super fan club.
Barry was not the last to be infected by the curse however. As each new Madden year is represented by a completely new and different face, with a whole heap of trouble sure to follow. I have compiled a list complete with each Madden year, followed directly by both the player chosen to star on the cover, and the terrible shit he was forced to suffer.
2001- Eddie George: Turf Toe, followed by a Career low in Rushing yards. Eddie never amassed more than 3.4 yards a carry in a season. For the rest of his career.
2002- Daunte Culpepper: Back injury, threw 14 interceptions the first half of the season. 3 years later the curse would resurface and tear his ACL, leading to his team’s decision to release him. He was later forced to play, not only for the Dolphins, who suck- But the Raiders, who are worse.
2003- Marshal Faulk: Ankle. Later signed a small contract with Campbell’s soup company. Very strange.
2004- Michael Vick: Vowed never to cut his dread locks until he lead his team to the Super bowl. Is currently awaiting his trial, where he is expected to serve time in prison for his contribution, and underground sponsorship of a ring of illegal dog fighting with his friends. He has since paid for multiple haircuts.
2005- Ray Lewis: Was injured during a game, though few people can actually remember why. It is assumed that this is a direct product of the Baltimore Ravens inability to remember how to win.
2006- Donovan McNabb: Sports Hernia. Lives in Philadelphia, where he is booed and cursed during nearly every home game he starts.
2007- Shaun Alexander: Fractured foot, missed 6 games, and was unable to reach at least 1,000 yards rushing for the first time in his career. During the same season, Ladanian Tomlinson of the Chargers, would go on to shatter Shaun’s single season TD record. Shaun has since then lost both his pro bowl left guard (Steve Hutchinson), alongside his pro bowl full back. Both were largely credited for Shaun’s previous success, prior to his multiple injuries.
2008- Vince Young: So far, Vince has suffered only a minor case of the sophomore slump- Though the season is still young. Then again, Vince has to play in front of a Tennessee crowd nearly every other week, for (at least) the next 6 years of his young Football career.
And there it is the Madden curse.
But if these players are aware of the “coincidences” which go onto follow the act of signing, not only their names, but apparently their souls as well, to the devils pipeline who goes by Madden… Well I suppose the question is simply why?
We asked several fans of both the sport, and the game, to comment on this. John Alpert, an undeclared freshman who asked to be anonymous, from Western Michigan University had only this to say.
“Well if they (The NFL) believe that the curse is real and not just a bunch of some… powered bologna, then why do they (The NFL) have to keep putting these players on the cover. It’s not only ruining it for the player, but for the team as well, not to mention the fans. “
Most people we asked were in complete agreement with what little Johnny had to say. But then, if the curse is real, where does Madden, and The NFL go from there?
“The NFL should start using the curse to its advantage. You know- cheer up the game a little” says John’s suitemate, a Canadian born sophomore from Winnipeg.
This was a good idea, I felt. So I went inside the Lions Locker room to ask some of the players how they felt, and to learn if either of their stars would ever consider accepting a paycheck to be on the cover. So I asked Tatum Bell what he thought, and he had only this to say. “Kevin Jones.” Other Lions were more jovial however, throwing out every hellish name they could think of from Hitler to the guy who shot Tupac, with one player even denouncing his wife. Strangely, team GM Matt Millen’s name was never mentioned. Though there are several photo shopped versions of the cover that can be found online, with Matt Millen’s face clearly shown behind the title.
Alas, and as stated before, the curse does not stop with the player. It goes all the way to the top. And standing there now, next to the great and powerful Madden is the newly appointed commissioner of the NFL, Roger Goodell. And with Roger Goodell’s recent commitment aimed toward cleaning up the game, or in other words, suspending any or all players convicted (sometimes simply alleged) of any crime or misdemeanor, it makes one wonder if he, as well, could possibly use this curse to his advantage. Perhaps instead of suspending his players for simple weapons, and dog murdering charges, Roger could offer to forward the curse onto these players as a modern day, type of doomsday device. Now obviously this isn’t the most traditional form of punishment- but it would be neat none the less. In fact, it wouldn’t be difficult at all. Realistically, Roger Goodell could easily just tear off a sheet of loose leaf paper, from anywhere, and create himself a simple ensemble of the NFL’s greatest douche-bags, while documenting each and every player to screw up during the season. And when time comes around for the next Madden cover, and as the devil waits happily by the bar, rubbing his palms; Goodell can simply arrange for a quite little photo shoot, and let nature take its course. Roger declined to comment.
However, and like always, the Reverend Al Sharpton was more than anxious to speak.
“I just cannot overlook the fact that all of these players are Black. There are still white people in the league right? You’re talking conspiracies; I’ll give you a conspiracy. 32 teams, 32 Quarterbacks. And out of those 32 teams, only 8 of those teams have a black starting Quarterback. So if we got 24 white Quarterbacks in the league, then why the hell does this guy subject half of our entire Quarterback population onto this damned curse, when they got 24 perfectly capable white alternatives, some of whom, which actually deserve to be cursed?
The pope declined to comment.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Two Waughs make a Write
Obviously there are many similarities betwix The Loved One and Half In Love With Easeful Death, hense the assignment. However it doesn't take a genius to catch onto the handful of shared parody and sarcasm which is utilized between the two, and for the most part carries on to the general theme as well, but it does make one wonder. Did Evelyn Waugh write the essay in spite of his less than fruitful trip to hollwood, where Evelyn would suffer through tragedy after tragedy, and bumb after bump, while trying to rewrite a seperate book of his for the big screen? Or did he write The Loved One as a follow-up to his essay, simply because it was true, hillarious, spiteful, yet most of all, still fresh enough in his mind to fill in the tiny cracks, and support each crack with a character and a name? And perhaps most important of all, could Evelyn Waugh's own attempted suicide possibly have fueled any personal sense, or obligation to complete his essay, or as the essay clearly states "Give life to death." Well, the answer could easily be yes, to each. However there is yet another possibility.
Evelyn Waugh could have written the original essay, then shortly thereafter suffer a minor stroke, losing all immediate knowledge of his original essay, therefor starting anew from scratch and creating his novel The Loved One. A novel which shared such common vents for parody such as hindu-love music, parlor rooms, Hollywood, Embalming, racism in the cemetary, and the over glorified, over paid, over-turning mortuaries, each centering specifically on one, and each's promise of everalsting happiness, without having to mention either heaven nor Hell. And of course how both versions of the same joke, are consistent in poking fun at the supposed English narrator, for his partaking in all of this. Which makes the joke, just that much funnier.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Simpsons TreeHouse of horror, and Blasphemy!
I was having trouble trying to recall an episode which i could remember vidily enough to write about. Luckily for me, being that it's october and all, the halloween spectaculars came to mind. And although I'm not sure exactly which sketches apply to which halloween specials, these episodes are probably the most satyrical of all. One in particular being the simpsons version of "The Raven"... which is pretty much the perfect example for this assignment, considering it's impact on literature and this being a literature course and all (Plus the halloween factor stated above). But aside the episode's near existential relationship with the assignment, there are other reasons for my bringing it up. (Quoth the raven "TreeHouse of Horror")
The creative brass for the simpsons thought it would be funny to make a mockery of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven", which they easily accomplished simply by incorporating a few of their characters. Homer is given the role of the nameless protagonist, and stays true to the original piece, in that he also narrates for the sketch. Fittingly, the stetch then places Marge's face in the picture frame entilted Lenore, and Bart's head on the raven, just above the chamber door, quoting the lovable "Eat my shorts". However it is mainly the classic, near rivalrous duo of Bart and Homer, which goes onto infect the integrity of the piece.
With most shows, it appears as if a lot of times the simpson brass will create a sitation, then only after the concept for the show is complete, the characters will then be thrown to the wolves to create a point. And because of this (especially durring the early years), the Simpson family has become the idealogical form of character satire - simmilar to a puppet theatre, performed by puppeteers who think puppeterring is stupid. Because of this, the mere image of the simpsons is sometimes enough to create a mockery of something. And in this episode: where the situation has already been pre-drawn, and laid-out some 150 years prior to the shows existense. I believe it is safe to say, that this show is one of those rare situations of (Situational)irony, where the mere presense of the simpsons, is enough in itself to create a successful segment of satyrical genius.(Or in the the retarded words of Peter Griffin "It insists upon itself")
For instance. When one compares the simpsons reading of the poem to that of the original text, there's really only a handful of differences which can be spotted between the two, with the bulk of the discrepancy falling upon terminology: hath= has, somewhat= something, etcetera, etcetera. And outside a famous outburst or two from each such as "Why you little!", and "Eat my shorts" the script itself remains in close fasion to that of the original.
And to jump back into what I had slightly touched on before, it is the interpretations of the text that can be seen on the screen that is mostly responsible for the satire which I am speaking of. The idiot: Homer, reciting and depicting Poe's extremely creative, and equally difficult classic "The Raven", is about as Ironic as the Simpsons have ever gotten, as Homer, next to Adolf Hitler, is probably the last person you would expect to portary the role. However, that is what creates somewhat of the double-whammy, as the poem itself never mentions a name, nor any physical features, that could even disagree with the possibility that the weak, and weary from the text could in fact be anybody. Or in this case, Homer.
This I find to be a complete mockery of the text, and probably a bit sarcastic in nature. I say this not only because "The Raven" is most likely my favorite poem, which represents a much darker content than the simpsons could ever hope to accomplish (hense the satire)... but because it is actually stated, in a loosely mocking fasion at the very end of the skit, as Bart and Lisa discuss their feelings. Bart says "That wasn't scary, not even for a poem." Lisa, the representation of the show's logic retorts, "Well it was written in 1845, maybe people were easier to scare back then". The show then ends with bart stating "Oh, yeah. Like when you look at "Friday the Thirteenth, Part 1''. Pretty tame by today's standards." Ending the show by comparing "The Raven" with lame slasher films such as the above, and further proving my quasi-thesis that because the Simpsons are so narrow minded and stupid, they perfectly fit the bill in making a satire out of anything. And in this case, just by being there. And in return clashing a positive storm of not only irony, but mockery as well.
But again this was the simpons. So for parody's sake (and time) I'll simply just create a list of what I've deemed to be the important Simspon moments of parody. Which without, may not have been funny at all. Again, outside their simply "being there".
1) Homer chasing, and swatting the Bart-Raven, for little other reason than his resemblance of Bart. Whereas there is no mention of this rivalry in the text, and is most likely just a simpson trademark instilled within the sketch to add a little sense of a simpson parody.
2) Marge's face and it's representation of Lenore. This itself is not very funny, however the parody easily becomes satyrical as the picture frame displaying her face, inch by inch, is accompanied by yet another frame, so as to include her famous blue tower of hair. This is one of the other few simpson trademarks that reveals itself within the poem, creating as I have said before, a friggin Mockery.
3) Bart yelping "Eat my shorts" in exchange of saying "Nevermore", which stirs Homer's aggression toward the Bart-Raven, for without, #1 could not exist. Which also, for those you have been paying attention, sounds quite a bit like the latter, and in fact does rhyme with everything in which the raven quotes in the original text. You could say this is the show poking fun at poetry, while depicting a poem. However, I see it as a mockery to the extent of straight-up blasphemy. Either way the reader chooses to see it, it does represent at least a touch of sarcasm by classroom standards, as it is a wounding expression, that deteriorates (in nature) the integrity, and genious of the poem. Possibly a reach, however there is something to grab for there.
4) Lastly, and this is up for debate, but if my memory serves me correct, I believe the room in which the entire setting takes place is supposed to (at least loosely) represent Mr. Burns own personal chamber/office. Few alterations exist, as to stay in touch with the original setting of the text, however the color scemes, desk, and size of the room do all appear quite simmilar. Again, this is not funny. However for the poem being so dark in nature, it would only seem fitting to present it within the walls of the darkest character on the show. (No not him...) But of coarse, that being Mr. Burns.
The creative brass for the simpsons thought it would be funny to make a mockery of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven", which they easily accomplished simply by incorporating a few of their characters. Homer is given the role of the nameless protagonist, and stays true to the original piece, in that he also narrates for the sketch. Fittingly, the stetch then places Marge's face in the picture frame entilted Lenore, and Bart's head on the raven, just above the chamber door, quoting the lovable "Eat my shorts". However it is mainly the classic, near rivalrous duo of Bart and Homer, which goes onto infect the integrity of the piece.
With most shows, it appears as if a lot of times the simpson brass will create a sitation, then only after the concept for the show is complete, the characters will then be thrown to the wolves to create a point. And because of this (especially durring the early years), the Simpson family has become the idealogical form of character satire - simmilar to a puppet theatre, performed by puppeteers who think puppeterring is stupid. Because of this, the mere image of the simpsons is sometimes enough to create a mockery of something. And in this episode: where the situation has already been pre-drawn, and laid-out some 150 years prior to the shows existense. I believe it is safe to say, that this show is one of those rare situations of (Situational)irony, where the mere presense of the simpsons, is enough in itself to create a successful segment of satyrical genius.(Or in the the retarded words of Peter Griffin "It insists upon itself")
For instance. When one compares the simpsons reading of the poem to that of the original text, there's really only a handful of differences which can be spotted between the two, with the bulk of the discrepancy falling upon terminology: hath= has, somewhat= something, etcetera, etcetera. And outside a famous outburst or two from each such as "Why you little!", and "Eat my shorts" the script itself remains in close fasion to that of the original.
And to jump back into what I had slightly touched on before, it is the interpretations of the text that can be seen on the screen that is mostly responsible for the satire which I am speaking of. The idiot: Homer, reciting and depicting Poe's extremely creative, and equally difficult classic "The Raven", is about as Ironic as the Simpsons have ever gotten, as Homer, next to Adolf Hitler, is probably the last person you would expect to portary the role. However, that is what creates somewhat of the double-whammy, as the poem itself never mentions a name, nor any physical features, that could even disagree with the possibility that the weak, and weary from the text could in fact be anybody. Or in this case, Homer.
This I find to be a complete mockery of the text, and probably a bit sarcastic in nature. I say this not only because "The Raven" is most likely my favorite poem, which represents a much darker content than the simpsons could ever hope to accomplish (hense the satire)... but because it is actually stated, in a loosely mocking fasion at the very end of the skit, as Bart and Lisa discuss their feelings. Bart says "That wasn't scary, not even for a poem." Lisa, the representation of the show's logic retorts, "Well it was written in 1845, maybe people were easier to scare back then". The show then ends with bart stating "Oh, yeah. Like when you look at "Friday the Thirteenth, Part 1''. Pretty tame by today's standards." Ending the show by comparing "The Raven" with lame slasher films such as the above, and further proving my quasi-thesis that because the Simpsons are so narrow minded and stupid, they perfectly fit the bill in making a satire out of anything. And in this case, just by being there. And in return clashing a positive storm of not only irony, but mockery as well.
But again this was the simpons. So for parody's sake (and time) I'll simply just create a list of what I've deemed to be the important Simspon moments of parody. Which without, may not have been funny at all. Again, outside their simply "being there".
1) Homer chasing, and swatting the Bart-Raven, for little other reason than his resemblance of Bart. Whereas there is no mention of this rivalry in the text, and is most likely just a simpson trademark instilled within the sketch to add a little sense of a simpson parody.
2) Marge's face and it's representation of Lenore. This itself is not very funny, however the parody easily becomes satyrical as the picture frame displaying her face, inch by inch, is accompanied by yet another frame, so as to include her famous blue tower of hair. This is one of the other few simpson trademarks that reveals itself within the poem, creating as I have said before, a friggin Mockery.
3) Bart yelping "Eat my shorts" in exchange of saying "Nevermore", which stirs Homer's aggression toward the Bart-Raven, for without, #1 could not exist. Which also, for those you have been paying attention, sounds quite a bit like the latter, and in fact does rhyme with everything in which the raven quotes in the original text. You could say this is the show poking fun at poetry, while depicting a poem. However, I see it as a mockery to the extent of straight-up blasphemy. Either way the reader chooses to see it, it does represent at least a touch of sarcasm by classroom standards, as it is a wounding expression, that deteriorates (in nature) the integrity, and genious of the poem. Possibly a reach, however there is something to grab for there.
4) Lastly, and this is up for debate, but if my memory serves me correct, I believe the room in which the entire setting takes place is supposed to (at least loosely) represent Mr. Burns own personal chamber/office. Few alterations exist, as to stay in touch with the original setting of the text, however the color scemes, desk, and size of the room do all appear quite simmilar. Again, this is not funny. However for the poem being so dark in nature, it would only seem fitting to present it within the walls of the darkest character on the show. (No not him...) But of coarse, that being Mr. Burns.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Enest goes Bunburying
Cecily
April 3rd
4:15
Dear Diary
The weather is cheering up. SO much in fact, that I have decided once again to postpone my engagement with cousin Ernest. I feel as if I should be experiencing broken heartness by now, but contrary to everything that i have ever read on the subject, I cannot explain why my feelings are so ambiguous, and... well I suppose I'm not feeling anything at all. I suppose I am still pleased with my last entry. Ernest had spoken so highly of me then, and I do wish to scribble down simmilar entries in the future. Doctor Chausable, or Ernest as he now likes to be called, informed me a few moments ago that Angy..Algo..Andy.. well whatever silly, detestible lable my sweet fiance used to go by, shall be christened back into the divinely lovable Ernest, no later than 5:30 tonight. Oh I do hope he acts rapidly with haste. I cannot stand being alone right now in this time of pitty, and I very much would enjoy to get re-engagged, or hopefully even married sometime before 5. 5:30 just seems so cliche and annoying, being that it is so closely related to diner and preperations, and whatnot. Oh, I simply can't wait to write about what Ernest speaks of me next!
P.S.
It is a terrible shame however. I have always dreamt of marrying a deviously, rich, cousin of mine. But I suppose 2 out of 3 will suffice. For now.
P.S.S
Oh how I do wonder if Doctor Chausible can help correct that as well.
April 3rd
4:15
Dear Diary
The weather is cheering up. SO much in fact, that I have decided once again to postpone my engagement with cousin Ernest. I feel as if I should be experiencing broken heartness by now, but contrary to everything that i have ever read on the subject, I cannot explain why my feelings are so ambiguous, and... well I suppose I'm not feeling anything at all. I suppose I am still pleased with my last entry. Ernest had spoken so highly of me then, and I do wish to scribble down simmilar entries in the future. Doctor Chausable, or Ernest as he now likes to be called, informed me a few moments ago that Angy..Algo..Andy.. well whatever silly, detestible lable my sweet fiance used to go by, shall be christened back into the divinely lovable Ernest, no later than 5:30 tonight. Oh I do hope he acts rapidly with haste. I cannot stand being alone right now in this time of pitty, and I very much would enjoy to get re-engagged, or hopefully even married sometime before 5. 5:30 just seems so cliche and annoying, being that it is so closely related to diner and preperations, and whatnot. Oh, I simply can't wait to write about what Ernest speaks of me next!
P.S.
It is a terrible shame however. I have always dreamt of marrying a deviously, rich, cousin of mine. But I suppose 2 out of 3 will suffice. For now.
P.S.S
Oh how I do wonder if Doctor Chausible can help correct that as well.
Friday, September 21, 2007
How to tell a story
Twain's "How to Tell a Story" is an essay about story telling, though quasi-ronically, it becomes more of an explanation about the art of telling a bad story. Twain makes this fairly easy for the reader to catch on to, partly because both stories he elects to share are equally terrible, with neither carrying any merit or usefulness outside the family campfire. But also based on the ways which Twain uses to describe, or slightly disect each of the three different types of comical stories a body can possibly tell. Humorous, Witty, and Comical enter in as the three sorts of story telling, with Witty and Comical being the european set of standards, which funnily enough are supposedly inferior to the American's Humorous style of story telling. This is obviously another famous example of Twain poking fun at europe (i.e. the king, and the duke), however that is not the only degree of staire working in his essay, as Twain goes on to follow his statements up, with examples of both the witty and the comical story; basing the humor of each strictly on the situation which the story takes place in, and the level of difficulty one must use in pausing... just before the punchline. And in twain's opinion that is the reason why europeans are not funny, and never have been. In return, the superior style of American thinking, in a general comparison between ourselves and... say the french, is the precise reason for which the reader should find this essay humorous. That being of course, the content (or as Twain states "Matter") of which the story is being told.
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