Saturday, August 31, 2019
Life and work in Merthyr Tydfil in the nineteenth century
The growth of industry in Merthyr was the main reason for the huge increase in population over a hundred years from 1750 to 1851. The population was estimated at four hundred people for the year 1750,this was just an estimate so we do not know how reliable this is as it is just an estimate and was not an official system. However by 1801 the first census was introduced and this produced an official figure for the population in Merthyr at the time, which was seven thousand people. This shows a massive increase in population in just over fifty years. The population continued to rise up until 1851 where it reached forty six thousand people. Source A1 The population of Merthyr Tydfil Year Population 1750 400 1801 7,000 1831 30,000 1851 46,000 The area of Merthyr was ideally situated for an iron works, as the mountains above were inexhaustible sources of Iron ore, coal, limestone, firestone and fire clay. There were several iron works in Merthyr at the time but the ones of Mr.Crawshays were the grandest and largest. The workers earnings averaged à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½3 a month. This covered Men, Women and Children. The maximum wage of the workers was nine Guineas, which was à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½9.45 per month. However this compared to Crawshay was nothing as he was earning a bumper à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½36,000 per annum. These facts and figures come from source A2 from the resource booklet. Rev. George Capper produced the source in a journal of a tour of Wales. This therefore makes the source a very reliable piece of evidence as Reverend George wrote it, who would have been a trustworthy and respected member of society. Also he would have had no reason to adopt a biased view on the subject. The source is very useful to a historian studying the works in Merthyr as it gives information regarding the size of the works and wage structures of the factory. Transport played a major part in the growth of Merthyr as an industrial town. In 1790 plans were put forward to construct a canal, which would go from Merthyr to Cardiff. It cost à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½103,600 and took four years to build. On its completion in February 1794 the canal measured 241/2 miles. The canal allowed raw materials to be transported at a much faster rate than previously, it could also transport a larger amount of goods at a time, compared to the old method of a horse and cart. Source A5(ii) shows how in ten years the use of the canal went from 83,729 tons of coal a year to 211,214 tons of coal a year. The levels of discontent in Merthyr started to rise at the start of the nineteenth century. There were many factors that contributed to this; one of them was truck tokens that were issued to workers as payment. This caused discontent because the tokens could only be spent in the shops, which were owned by the truck companies. The goods were highly priced and poor in quality, this along with a number of other issues including the state of the government at the time eventually led to the start of the riots in Merthyr at the start of the nineteenth century. Source B2 explains how the riot in Merthyr had reached such a point that it would be impossible to stop without the assistance of the military. It also explains what the rioters were doing during the riot, how they had demolished truck shops, the main one being the Morgan Lewis shop. It goes on to say that he thought there were in excess of two thousand people ‘doing all the mischief they can.' G.Lyndon produced the source in a letter to Samuel Homfray on the 22nd September 1800. It would have been reliable because the letter was taken from the time of the riot, also source B3 is shows a painting of troops arriving in Merthyr which backs up what is said in the letter. The painting is a contemporary painting by Penry Williams. Even though it is a contemporary painting it may not be an entirely reliable source as the artist may have exaggerated the scene, it would have been more reliable if it had been a photo instead of a painting. This would affect the usefulness of the source to an historian studying the events in Merthyr. The usefulness of the letter is that it would have been able to tell historians exactly what was going on in Merthyr at the time and how serious the riots actually were. At the start of the nineteenth radical ideas started to become more popular in Merthyr. They believed that wide scale reforms were needed in Merthyr at the time. These views are put across in source B4, which is part of an anonymous paper, found near Penydarren on 27th January 1817. It talks about the misery of the people of Merthyr and how if changes are not made soon the workers will take the law into their own hands. Source A1 shows the growth in population in Merthyr over a hundred years from 1750 to 1831. Source C1 shows the census of 1851 in detail. The reliability of this source is put into question as it says that the total population in Merthyr in the year 1851 is six thousand, five hundred and twenty eight. If this is compared to source A1, where it states that the population in Merthyr was actually thirty thousand people. Therefore there is a difference of nearly twenty five thousand between each source. This also casts doubt over the reliability of source A1, however in my opinion source I believe that source A1 would be more reliable than source C1 because source A1 supports the fact that Merthyr was booming due to the increasing size of the ironworks at the time.
Friday, August 30, 2019
A Review of Abraham Verghes’ My Own Country Essay
Introduction            Nursing transcends cultures and geographical boundaries. With the emergence of a lot of medical conditions in the world, nurses and even doctors have a lot of stories to share with each other concerning the way they treat patients. Some of these stories are common while some are more peculiar than others. When those from the medical profession write about their experiences, those who read their work are bound to be immersed in their world and in their worldview.            Dr. Ambraham Verghese wrote about the emergence of AIDS in Johnson City, Tennessee during the time the HIV virus has not yet become as prevalent as it is now. Dr. Verghese chronicles his journey together with his patients and the way he struggled in balancing his medical profession and his personal life. As Dr. Verghese came in contact with the persons with AIDS, he had to confront his own stereotypes and see his patients for who they really are and not for the labels and the stigma directed against them by society. The families of the persons with AIDS also struggled in accepting their identity as homosexuals.            Verghese then spent time with these persons with AIDS, talked with them, listened to their stories, and went to their families so he can know them more deeply. By doing so, Verghese succeeded in presenting the humane side of persons with AIDS. The stories he told were filled with emotions and the experiences of people who have AIDS. He also looked at the health care system in the United States and the kind of health care service delivered to persons with AIDS. Apparently, there are incidences when patients are victimized, privacy problems are impinged on and confidentiality between doctors and patients are compromised. On top of this, a lot of people in the society still have their own prejudices, preconceptions and biases concerning AIDS. Verghese, Identity and AIDS            My Own Country: A Doctor’s Story is not only about the life of Verghese and his medical practice. It was a book about his awakening to the vocation of being a doctor. His book is a courageous look at a topic considered to be taboo by the rest of the society. It is revolutionary because during the 1980s, AIDS was slowly coming to the consciousness of the American society. Although he focused on Johnson City in Tennessee, his story dealt with the human condition and how love and fear can make changes in the lives of people.            The autobiographical work of Dr. Verghese talked about the importance of identity. The doctor, himself wrestled with questions about his identity and various influences. He is of Indian decent although with an Ethiopian birth. To confound things more, he was also a Christian. He speaks of being an outsider because of his ethnicity and the way he was labeled as an â€Å"outsider.†He also thought that he was only needed as a doctor and when there are no longer medical conditions he needs to treat, then the community will no longer need him.            Against the backdrop of race and his practice of profession, he managed to identify with the persons suffering with AIDS. He also explored how society gives identity to a disease and by association, such identity is imposed to the persons who are afflicted with such disease. To show this further, Dr. Verghese explained how society equated AIDS with homosexuality and sin. When morality comes in, the society looks at the labels and stereotypes instead of looking at the real identity of the individuals concerned. Because of this, Verghese managed to identify with the persons with AIDS and gathered their trust enough for him to help them reconstruct their identity and explore his own identity. Death, Illness and Narratives            One of the lost art of medicine that Verghese rediscovered is listening and telling stories and narratives. He wrote that through stories, the dignity of an individual can be reaffirmed. Through stories, too, such dignity could also be denied to a person. Through the book he has written, he showed the way that the narratives of his patients got intertwined with his. Along the process, he becomes changed and even relates the narratives from the family members of those persons with AIDS.            The reality of death is very much present in the awareness of the persons living with AIDS. Family members are also aware with the possibility of death. Yet, at first they cannot see beyond the stigma of AIDS. With narratives and stories, however, they get to be made aware of the real personality of the individual with AIDS and recall their love and care for them as family member. Verghese, through his direct interaction with his patients and even with their families learned as much how families react to impending death.  The price of his method of treatment, or rather his going out of his way beyond mere delivery of health care is the way in which he became an â€Å"outsider†from his colleagues from the medical profession. As the persons with AIDS deal with their own lifestyles and impending death, Verghese continues learning from the way they muster courage and inspiration to live. Personal Response            The approach of Verghese in dealing with his patients with AIDS is amazing. He went beyond the stigma of the society and the accepted way of doing things in his profession just to understand his patients and along the way, he managed to understand himself more deeply. What really touched me is the way that he spoke to persons with AIDS and listened to their stories. The benefit was not only for the patients. Verghese, himself benefited greatly from such an experience.            If I were in his situation, I might have stuck to the tried and accepted way of dealing with AIDS patients without going the extra mile for them. The example of Dr. Verghese is worth emulating. What he did transcended culture, social norms and stereotypes and eventually empowered the persons with AIDS. He was very brave in pursuing the questions he was asking himself. More than just providing them with health care services, he connected with them as a friend would. That is one thing that I could certainly use in my own medical career. Patients should not be seen as just one disease to be treated after another. Rather, the dynamics of human relationships and narratives should be utilized to the full. Implications to Advanced Nursing Practice            Narratives and stories are important means of connecting with a person and developing relationships with them. With the example shown by Dr. Verghese, narrative should be a part of the delivery of health care so that they will not only be treated for their medical condition but their treatment could be hastened with the sharing of stories and listening to the concerns of the patients. This may entail additional work for doctors but it is also worth pursuing because of its good effects to the patients and to the doctors and nurses.            Nurses tend to interact with patients more. As such, they need to learn how to interact effectively with their patients and share stories and narratives. It does not have to be very deliberate or contrived. Rather, it should be as natural as possible so as to encourage better interaction.            Nurses who provide care to patients in the hospital has to engage the assistance of family members too because they can greatly help in the treatment of the medical condition of the patients. Furthermore, as the family members and the patient interact more, they can be drawn closer together. Some nurses already practice this kind of meaningful interaction with patients. Yet as the need for nurses to engage in narratives and stories, they have to learn how to do this. Reference Verghese, A. (1994). My Own Country: A Doctor’s Story. New York: Simon and Schuster.
The Host Chapter 6: Followed
The light was finally fading outside the windows. The day, hot for March, had lingered on and on, as if reluctant to end and set me free. I sniffled and twisted the wet handkerchief into another knot. â€Å"Kathy, you must have other obligations. Curt will be wondering where you are.†â€Å"He'll understand.†â€Å"I can't stay here forever. And we're no closer to an answer than before.†â€Å"Quick fixes aren't my specialty. You are decided against a new host -â€Å" â€Å"Yes.†â€Å"So dealing with this will probably take some time.†I clenched my teeth in frustration. â€Å"And it will go faster and more smoothly if you have some help.†â€Å"I'll be better with making my appointments, I promise.†â€Å"That's not exactly what I mean, though I hope you will.†â€Å"You mean help†¦ other than you?†I cringed at the thought of having to relive today's misery with a stranger. â€Å"I'm sure you're just as qualified as any Comforter-more so.†â€Å"I didn't mean another Comforter.†She shifted her weight in the chair and stretched stiffly. â€Å"How many friends do you have, Wanderer?†â€Å"You mean people at work? I see a few other teachers almost every day. There are several students I speak to in the halls†¦Ã¢â‚¬ â€Å"Outside of the school?†I stared at her blankly. â€Å"Human hosts need interaction. You're not used to solitude, dear. You shared an entire planet's thoughts -â€Å" â€Å"We didn't go out much.†My attempt at humor fell flat. She smiled slightly and went on. â€Å"You're struggling so hard with your problem that it's all you can concentrate on. Maybe one answer is to not concentrate quite so hard. You said Melanie grows bored during your working hours†¦ that she is more dormant. Perhaps if you developed some peer relationships, those would bore her also.†I pursed my lips thoughtfully. Melanie, sluggish from the long day of attempted comfort, did seem rather unenthused by the idea. Kathy nodded. â€Å"Get involved with life rather than with her.†â€Å"That makes sense.†â€Å"And then there are the physical drives these bodies have. I've never seen or heard of their equal. One of the most difficult things we of the first wave had to conquer was the mating instinct. Believe me, the humans noticed when you didn't.†She grinned and rolled her eyes at some memory. When I didn't react as she'd expected, she sighed and crossed her arms impatiently. â€Å"Oh, come now, Wanderer. You must have noticed.†â€Å"Well, of course,†I mumbled. Melanie stirred restlessly. â€Å"Obviously. I've told you about the dreams†¦Ã¢â‚¬ â€Å"No, I didn't mean just memories. Haven't you come across anyone that your body has responded to in the present-on strictly a chemical level?†I thought her question through carefully. â€Å"I don't think so. Not so I've noticed.†â€Å"Trust me,†Kathy said dryly. â€Å"You'd notice.†She shook her head. â€Å"Perhaps you should open your eyes and look around for that specifically. It might do you a lot of good.†My body recoiled from the thought. I registered Melanie's disgust, mirrored by my own. Kathy read my expression. â€Å"Don't let her control how you interact with your kind, Wanderer. Don't let her control you.†My nostrils flared. I waited a moment to answer, reining in the anger that I'd never quite gotten used to. â€Å"She does not control me.†Kathy raised an eyebrow. The anger tightened my throat. â€Å"You did not look too far afield for your current partner. Was that choice controlled?†She ignored my anger and considered the question thoughtfully. â€Å"Perhaps,†she finally said. â€Å"It's hard to know. But you've made your point.†She picked at a string in the hem of her shirt, and then, as if realizing that she was avoiding my gaze, folded her hands resolutely and squared her shoulders. â€Å"Who knows how much comes from any given host on any given planet? As I said before, I think time is probably your answer. Whether she grows apathetic and silent gradually, allowing you to make another choice besides this Jared, or†¦ well, the Seekers are very good. They're already looking for him, and maybe you'll remember something that helps.†I didn't move as her meaning sank in. She didn't seem to notice that I was frozen in place. â€Å"Perhaps they'll find Melanie's love, and then you can be together. If his feelings are as fervent as hers, the new soul will probably be amenable.†â€Å"No!†I wasn't sure who had shouted. It could have been me. I was full of horror, too. I was on my feet, shaking. The tears that came so easily were, for once, absent, and my hands trembled in tight fists. â€Å"Wanderer?†But I turned and ran for the door, fighting the words that could not come out of my mouth. Words that could not be my words. Words that made no sense unless they were hers, but they felt like mine. They couldn't be mine. They couldn't be spoken. That's killing him! That's making him cease to be! I don't want someone else. I want Jared, not a stranger in his body! The body means nothing without him. I heard Kathy calling my name behind me as I ran into the road. I didn't live far from the Comforter's office, but the darkness in the street disoriented me. I'd gone two blocks before I realized I was running in the wrong direction. People were looking at me. I wasn't dressed for exercise, and I wasn't jogging, I was fleeing. But no one bothered me; they politely averted their eyes. They would guess that I was new to this host. Acting out the way a child would. I slowed to a walk, turning north so that I could loop around without passing Kathy's office again. My walk was only slightly slower than a run. I heard my feet hitting the sidewalk too quickly, as though they were trying to match the tempo of a dance song. Slap, slap, slap against the concrete. No, it wasn't like a drumbeat, it was too angry. Like violence. Slap, slap, slap. Someone hitting someone else. I shuddered away from the horrible image. I could see the lamp on over my apartment door. It hadn't taken me long to cover the distance. I didn't cross the road, though. I felt sick. I remembered what it felt like to vomit, though I never had. The cold wetness dewed on my forehead, the hollow sound rang in my ears. I was pretty sure I was about to have that experience for my own. There was a bank of grass beside the walk. Around a streetlamp there was a well-trimmed hedge. I had no time to look for a better place. I stumbled to the light and caught the post to hold myself up. The nausea was making me dizzy. Yes, I was definitely going to experience throwing up. â€Å"Wanderer, is that you? Wanderer, are you ill?†The vaguely familiar voice was impossible to concentrate on. But it made things worse, knowing I had an audience as I leaned my face close to the bush and violently choked up my most recent meal. â€Å"Who's your Healer here?†the voice asked. It sounded far away through the buzzing in my ears. A hand touched my arched back. â€Å"Do you need an ambulance?†I coughed twice and shook my head. I was sure it was over; my stomach was empty. â€Å"I'm not ill,†I said I as pulled myself upright using the lamppost for support. I looked over to see who was watching my moment of disgrace. The Seeker from Chicago had her cell phone in her hand, trying to decide which authority to call. I took one good look at her and bent over the leaves again. Empty stomach or no, she was the last person I needed to see right now. But, as my stomach heaved uselessly, I realized that there would be a reason for her presence. Oh, no! Oh, no no no no no no! â€Å"Why?†I gasped, panic and sickness stealing the volume from my voice. â€Å"Why are you here? What's happened?†The Comforter's very uncomforting words pounded in my head. I stared at the hands gripping the collar of the Seeker's black suit for two seconds before I realized they were mine. â€Å"Stop!†she said, and there was outrage on her face. Her voice rattled. I was shaking her. My hands jerked open and landed against my face. â€Å"Excuse me!†I huffed. â€Å"I'm sorry. I don't know what I was doing.†The Seeker scowled at me and smoothed the front of her outfit. â€Å"You're not well, and I suppose I startled you.†â€Å"I wasn't expecting to see you,†I whispered. â€Å"Why are you here?†â€Å"Let's get you to a Healing facility before we speak. If you have a flu, you should get it healed. There's no point in letting it wear your body down.†â€Å"I don't have a flu. I'm not ill.†â€Å"Did you eat bad food? You must report where you got it.†Her prying was very annoying. â€Å"I did not eat bad food, either. I'm healthy.†â€Å"Why don't you have a Healer check? A quick scan-you shouldn't neglect your host. That's irresponsible. Especially when health care is so easy and effective.†I took a deep breath and resisted the urge to shake her again. She was a full head shorter than I was. It was a fight I would win. A fight? I turned away from her and walked swiftly toward my home. I was dangerously emotional. I needed to calm down before I did something inexcusable. â€Å"Wanderer? Wait! The Healer -â€Å" â€Å"I need no Healer,†I said without turning. â€Å"That was just†¦ an emotional imbalance. I'm fine now.†The Seeker didn't answer. I wondered what she made of my response. I could hear her shoes-high heels-tapping after me, so I left the door open, knowing she would follow me in. I went to the sink and filled a glass with water. She waited silently while I rinsed my mouth and spat. When I was through, I leaned against the counter, staring into the basin. She was soon bored. â€Å"So, Wanderer†¦ or do you still go by that name? I don't mean to be rude in calling you that.†I didn't look at her. â€Å"I still go by Wanderer.†â€Å"Interesting. I pegged you for one that would choose her own.†â€Å"I did choose. I chose Wanderer.†It had long been clear to me that the mild spat I'd overheard the first day I woke in the Healing facility was the Seeker's fault. The Seeker was the most confrontational soul I'd come across in nine lives. My first Healer, Fords Deep Waters, had been calm, kind, and wise, even for a soul. Yet he had not been able to help reacting to her. That made me feel better about my own response. I turned around to face her. She was on my small couch, nestled in comfortably as if for a long visit. Her expression was self-satisfied, the bulging eyes amused. I controlled the desire to scowl. â€Å"Why are you here?†I asked again. My voice was a monotone. Restrained. I would not lose control again in front of this woman. â€Å"It's been a while since I heard anything from you, so I thought I would check in personally. We've still made no headway in your case.†My hands clamped down on the edge of the counter behind me, but I kept the wild relief from my voice. â€Å"That seems†¦ overzealous. Besides, I sent you a message last night.†Her eyebrows came together in that way she had, a way that made her look angry and annoyed at the same time, as if you, not she, were responsible for her anger. She pulled out her palm computer and touched the screen a few times. â€Å"Oh,†she said stiffly. â€Å"I haven't checked my mail today.†She was quiet as she scanned through what I had written. â€Å"I sent it very early in the morning,†I said. â€Å"I was half asleep at the time. I'm not sure how much of what I wrote was memory or dream, or sleep-typing, maybe.†I went along with the words-Melanie's words-as they flowed easily from my mouth; I even added my own lighthearted laugh at the end. It was dishonest of me. Shameful behavior. But I would not let the Seeker know that I was weaker than my host. For once, Melanie was not smug at having bested me. She was too relieved, too grateful that I had not, for my own petty reasons, given her away. â€Å"Interesting,†the Seeker murmured. â€Å"Another one on the loose.†She shook her head. â€Å"Peace continues to elude us.†She did not seem dismayed by the idea of a fragile peace-rather, it seemed to please her. I bit my lip hard. Melanie wanted so badly to make another denial, to claim the boy was just part of a dream. Don't be stupid, I told her. That would be so obvious. It said much for the repellent nature of the Seeker that she could put Melanie and me on the same side of an argument. I hate her. Melanie's whisper was sharp, painful like a cut. I know, I know. I wished I could deny that I felt†¦ similarly. Hate was an unforgivable emotion. But the Seeker was†¦ very difficult to like. Impossible. The Seeker interrupted my internal conversation. â€Å"So, other than the new location to review, you have no more help for me on the road maps?†I felt my body react to her critical tone. â€Å"I never said they were lines on a road map. That's your assumption. And no, I have nothing else.†She clicked her tongue quickly three times. â€Å"But you said they were directions.†â€Å"That's what I think they are. I'm not getting anything more.†â€Å"Why not? Haven't you subdued the human yet?†She laughed loudly. Laughing at me. I turned my back to her and concentrated on calming myself. I tried to pretend that she wasn't there. That I was all alone in my austere kitchen, staring out the window into the little patch of night sky, at the three bright stars I could see through it. Well, as alone as I ever was. While I stared at the tiny points of light in the blackness, the lines that I'd seen over and over again-in my dreams and in my broken memories, cropping up at strange, unrelated moments-flashed through my head. The first: a slow, rough curve, then a sharp turn north, another sharp turn back the other way, twisting back to the north for a longer stretch, and then the abrupt southern decline that flattened out into another shallow curve. The second: a ragged zigzag, four tight switchbacks, the fifth point strangely blunt, like it was broken†¦ The third: a smooth wave, interrupted by a sudden spur that swung a thin, long finger out to the north and back. Incomprehensible, seemingly meaningless. But I knew this was important to Melanie. From the very beginning I'd known that. She protected this secret more fiercely than any other, next to the boy, her brother. I'd had no idea of his existence before the dream last night. I wondered what it was that had broken her. Maybe as she grew louder in my head, she would lose more of her secrets to me. Maybe she would slip up, and I would see what these strange lines meant. I knew they meant something. That they led somewhere. And at that moment, with the echo of the Seeker's laugh still hanging in the air, I suddenly realized why they were so important. They led back to Jared, of course. Back to both of them, Jared and Jamie. Where else? What other location could possibly hold any meaning for her? Only now I saw that it was not back, because none of them had ever followed these lines before. Lines that had been as much of a mystery to her as they were to me, until†¦ The wall was slow to block me. She was distracted, paying more attention to the Seeker than I was. She fluttered in my head at a sound behind me, and that was the first I was aware of the Seeker's approach. The Seeker sighed. â€Å"I expected more of you. Your track record seemed so promising.†â€Å"It's a pity you weren't free for the assignment yourself. I'm sure if you'd had to deal with a resistant host, it would have been child's play.†I didn't turn to look at her. My voice stayed level. She sniffed. â€Å"The early waves were challenging enough even without a resistant host.†â€Å"Yes. I've experienced a few settlings myself.†The Seeker snorted. â€Å"Were the See Weeds very difficult to tame? Did they flee?†I kept my voice calm. â€Å"We had no trouble in the South Pole. Of course, the North was another matter. It was badly mishandled. We lost the entire forest.†The sadness of that time echoed behind my words. A thousand sentient beings, closing their eyes forever rather than accept us. They'd curled their leaves from the suns and starved. Good for them, Melanie whispered. There was no venom attached to the thought, only approval as she saluted the tragedy in my memory. It was such a waste. I let the agony of the knowledge, the feel of the dying thoughts that had racked us with our sister forest's pain, wash through my head. It was death either way. The Seeker spoke, and I tried to concentrate on just one conversation. â€Å"Yes.†Her voice was uncomfortable. â€Å"That was poorly executed.†â€Å"You can never be too careful when it comes to doling out power. Some aren't as careful as they should be.†She didn't answer, and I heard her move a few steps back. Everyone knew that the misstep behind the mass suicide belonged to the Seekers, who, because the See Weeds couldn't flee, had underestimated their ability to escape. They'd proceeded recklessly, beginning the first settlement before we had adequate numbers in place for a full-scale assimilation. By the time they realized what the See Weeds were capable of, were willing to do, it was too late. The next shipment of hibernating souls was too far away, and before they'd arrived, the northern forest was lost. I faced the Seeker now, curious to judge the impact of my words. She was impassive, staring at the white nothingness of the bare wall across the room. â€Å"I'm sorry I can't help you further.†I said the words firmly, trying to make the dismissal clear. I was ready to have my house to myself again. To ourselves, Melanie inserted spitefully. I sighed. She was so full of herself now. â€Å"You really shouldn't have troubled yourself to come so far.†â€Å"It's the job,†the Seeker said, shrugging. â€Å"You're my only assignment. Until I find the rest of them, I may as well stick close to you and hope I get lucky.â€
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Participation Questions Week 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Participation Questions Week 3 - Essay Example s, electronic forums create the ability to formulate task forces very quickly to deal with complex business problems that require immediate attention. In your response you added a new dimension to the discussion because you integrated personal application of how to use the eastern philosophy can improve a person’s ability to make better decisions. The basic difference between the eastern philosophy and the western philosophy is that one is based on patience and the other on speed. Both strategies have their advantages, but in the long run the eastern philosophy can add greater value to a business. When a manager applies patience in the decision making process they improve their probabilities of making the right decision. One of the weaknesses of the eastern philosophy is that it is not suitable for industries in which quick decision necessary to get the job done. An example of an industry in which speed at times is more important than patience is the consulting industry. If a client wants a solution within a short time frame such as one to four weeks the decision maker must make quick decisions based on the information that is readily available. The major stakeholder’s groups such as the lenders and shareholders sometimes place unnecessary pressures on companies to deliver. These pressures affect the management mentality as far as thinking that the short term is of higher importance than the long term. American are overly worried about time, thus the obsession with shortening time to deliver faster is hurting their outcomes in business decision. The integration of the eastern approach is necessary to achieve balance. The example you showed is a case of an employee that rush into a decision based on receiving a reward. The managerial decisional process must include a thorough assessment of the situation prior to making the decision. Listening is sometimes more important than talking. People can sometimes misinterpreted body language based on cultural
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Strategic analysis Kodak Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Strategic analysis Kodak - Essay Example Success in modern world requires constant innovation and change - things most of the organisation are not known very well. This environment changes so rapidly that even the best idea can fade fast. Perhaps this is the reason that environment is so important to an organisation. The external environment of Kodak is complex. As Kodak is focusing on imaging business, this market is the vital market for it. In digital age, more and more activities are related to digital means, same as more and more business are derived from digital technologies. Digital trend, indeed, represents a long-term threat to Kodak's core business - silver print. Although experts disagree over how long it will take for digital imaging to start shrinking the worldwide traditional imaging market, that day is surely coming. According to Lyra Research, a market research company in US, the worldwide film sales will grow only 1% annually through 2003 and slowly shrink after that, whilst digital imaging business will expand 20% annually in next five years (Kodak internal marketing article, 2001). One way to consider the competitive position of Kodak is by means of the Directional Policy Matrix (Thompdon, L. J. 1993: 470). ... a. Analysis of External Environment Success in modern world requires constant innovation and change - things most of the organisation are not known very well. This environment changes so rapidly that even the best idea can fade fast. Perhaps this is the reason that environment is so important to an organisation. Competitive Environment of Kodak The external environment of Kodak is complex. As Kodak is focusing on imaging business, this market is the vital market for it. In digital age, more and more activities are related to digital means, same as more and more business are derived from digital technologies. Digital trend, indeed, represents a long-term threat to Kodak's core business - silver print. Although experts disagree over how long it will take for digital imaging to start shrinking the worldwide traditional imaging market, that day is surely coming. According to Lyra Research, a market research company in US, the worldwide film sales will grow only 1% annually through 2003 and slowly shrink after that, whilst digital imaging business will expand 20% annually in next five years (Kodak internal marketing article, 2001). Introduction of Directional Policy Matrix One way to consider the competitive position of Kodak is by means of the Directional Policy Matrix (Thompdon, L. J. 1993: 470). This matrix is constructed above two axes: the Industry Attractiveness in horizontal axis and the organisation's competitive position in vertical axis. By evaluating relevant factors of these two dimensions we can place appropriate positions for discussed organisation. Traditional Imaging Digital Imaging Industry Attractiveness Market Growth Low High Supplier
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Art paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
Art - Research Paper Example Some of the objects are unidentifiable and there is little color. In this painting, color is minimal, which is different from many of Picassos other works. The main coloring is black, white and greyscale, with some green and a burnt reddish-brown color. The use of minimal color makes the one area that is in green stand out which says the paintings name, Ma Jolie. This brings emphasis and attention to the artwork. Black and white is found throughout the entire canvas with just touches of the color which indicates that the artist may have only wanted to emphasize certain areas of the artwork while others blended in and surrounded it. What I see is a conglomeration of objects scattered across a canvas. It is difficult to determine what all objects are contained in this scattering of images as they are all somewhat unidentifiable. One object looks like a column, one looks like an old-time prescription bottle, one looks like it could be a flask or maybe even a camera. One object that is brown could be a flute of some sort as it has multiple black holes that look like an instrument. It also looks like a mound of papers underneath or even on a place mat. As I previously stated, it looks like a still life in a way but in a way that is not realistic but instead more modernized and abstract in nature. I think what the artist is trying to say in this art work is simply describing things around him during the time frame in which this was painted. I think that it is none other than a grouping on a table of things that are of interest to him or describe his era. That is what I think the collection of objects are is just that: a few objects that perhaps inspired him. I think his lack of color exemplifies that he only wants certain things to stand out such as what appears to be a paper or program that says Ma Jolie. The black and white and large amount of white space helps to create that emphasis. Picasso also uses a lot of basic lines within the painting
Monday, August 26, 2019
Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4
Case Study - Essay Example Starting with the establishment of the first store in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas, Sam Walton together with his brother had managed to grow the firm to 32 stores spread across four states by 1969, when Wal-Mart Stores, Inc was incorporated, and subsequently to 330 stores spread across 11 states by 1980, culminating in 1,402 Wal-Mart Stores and 123 Sam’s Wholesale Club outlets covering 29 states by Jan 1990 with Sales of over $25.8 billion. In fact, back in 1977, Forbes magazine had ranked Wal-Mart first in the discount retailing industry based on parameters such as return on equity, return on capital, sales growth, and earnings growth. To understand the reasons behind such phenomenal performance it will be prudent to look at some financial performance parameters of Wal-Mart and its competitors, and then to look at how competitive forces act in this industry using Porter’s Five forces model. b) During the same period, the performance figures of other major competitors as given in Exhibit 5 of the case show that Sears and Kmart had recorded an average annual sales growth rate of just 7.8% and 7.9% respectively, while Target had recorded 12.9%. This indicates that Wal-Mart was way ahead of competition in sales growth. c) Wal-Mart also ensured that this sales growth was accompanied by excellent returns to stockholders by maintaining the profitability despite such growth in sales. Thus net earnings increased from $0.55 billion in 1981 to $1.90 billion in 1990, with EPS growing from $0.11 million to $1.90 million d) On this count again Wal-Mart was way above competitors clocking an average growth rate of 30.3% on Return on Equity (ROE), and 32.9% on EPS as against Sears (11.1%; 8.0%), Kmart (13.5%; 12.6%), and Target (15.2%; 14%). e) Wal-Mart had also managed its working capital very well with a current ratio ranging from a low of 1.66 to a high of 2.07 during this decade, primarily through excellent management of inventories, achieving an
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Gas turbine engine basics Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2
Gas turbine engine basics - Coursework Example This means that if the exit velocity is maintained at a higher value than free stream velocity, and simultaneously, the engine flow rate (m dot) is kept as high as possible, the high engine flow will produce a high thrust in a turboprop engine. Even though a large amount of air is ingested, the change in velocity is very minimal between the intake and the exit so that the exit velocity is at a low value (Low exit velocity). Due to the large value of m dot, a high thrust is developed. If we denote the free stream conditions by â€Å"0†, the propeller exit conditions by â€Å"1†, core exit conditions by â€Å"e†and core entrance conditions by â€Å"c†, then from the basic thrust equation we get: In Turboprop engine, the mass flow rate through the propeller is much greater than that of core engine(High mass flow ). The mass flow rate entering the core is almost equal to the mass flow rate exiting the core. The exit velocity from the core is almost the same as inlet velocity into the core(Low exit velocity). Hence the thrust equation can be rounded off to get: Components and Purpose: The intake also called the inlet serves three purposes, namely (1) recovering as much of the total pressure of the free air stream required for combustion, from free-stream conditions to the conditions and deliver this pressure to the entrance of fan or compressor, (2) delivering air to the compressor under all flight conditions with minimum turbulence and (3) to have minimum drag. The inlet is generally not defined by any particular part, but is formed by structural support parts which are located in front of compressor. The design of subsonic inlet differs from that of supersonic inlet. In subsonic inlets of engines fitted in nacelles air enters in different streamline patterns at different speeds of operation as shown in Fig-1 (Mattingly,p759). Supersonic inlets are
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Multiple Linear Regression Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Multiple Linear Regression - Assignment Example del is linear in the sense that every predictor variable is either a constant or the product of a parameter (ÃŽ ²Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s) and a predictor variable (x’s). The researchers further investigated whether the multiple linear regression models provided a better description of the relationship between the wave modes than would a linear regression model with only a linear predictor. In the model, y (the response) is the ISOw (westward moving intraseasonal modes) and x (the predictor variable) is the ISOe (eastward moving intraseasonal modes). ISOe is further broken down to into more variables by applying power functions of the predictor variable to create a polynomial. Higher power terms are included in the model in order to seek evidence of any improvements in how they increase the accuracy of how wave modes are displayed. This selection is arbitrary and purely based on the assumption that it may lead to the development of a better model for depicting the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Each of the introduced independent variables is then evaluated for significance (at the 5% level of significance) in order to establish its relevance to the entire model. Each item with a coefficient whose p-value falls below the 0.05 (5%) threshold is considered as being statistically significant. Such variables are retained in the model. The test of significance was repeated several times using the bootstrapping technique. A^sub s, T^ = (X^sup T^^sub t^X^sub t^)^sup -1^X^sup T^^sub t^Y^sub s,t+T^ by solving for a specified lag for the regression coefficients. In this equation, â€Å"T†is the matrix transpose, â€Å"a†the coefficients, and s the grid points (more easily interpreted as the lags). The regression equation involving the nonlinear terms is then tested for suitability against the ordinary linear regression. The model that appears to explain more variance in the response is deemed better.
Friday, August 23, 2019
Think Global Act Local Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Think Global Act Local - Essay Example Nurses can be involved in the planning of their activities, for example, the ones that promote giving to present voluntary giving without anticipating anything in return. These are the work that most nurses do by helping others voluntarily. Nurses can also be assisted to help others develop their self-esteem by helping them value themselves. The next organization is Philadelphia FIGHT. This is an all-encompassing AIDS service agency, which provides primary care, advocacy on potential vaccines or treatments and consumer care. The main goal is to provide care to HIV/AIDS through offering a wide range of prevention, education, as well as information services such as AIDS Library, Project TEACH, Critical Path AIDS Project and the Youth Health Empowerment Project. These missions are also how its goals are being achieved and the agency can be really assisted a lot with the introduction of nurses into their program. For instance, a nurse can be brought in to assist in the Project TEACH, whi ch basically teaches people who to live after developing AIDS and also how to prevent themselves from catching the virus. The final organization is the American Association of University Women. This organization promotes equity and education for girls and women. What the organization has done to realize its mission is spreading itself into different universities in the United States and areas where education is not female education is not widespread to advocate for the education of more female adults and young ones.
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Environmental sustainability Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1
Environmental sustainability - Essay Example It would then only be a question of time that man ceases to exist. This paper discusses about environmental sustainability, mainly focusing on the Brundtland Report about the same. This report not just considers the earth’s â€Å"environmental decay, poverty, and hardship,†but also brings to fore the â€Å"possibility for a new era of economic growth†and how this possibility can be realized. Environmentalists and scientists alike have tried to bring the situation under control by closely examining the environment as well as the earth. They have proposed several theories and steps that would help man to protect the environment and safeguard it. One such concept is sustainable development, which is the â€Å"ability to make development sustainable (by) ensuring that it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs†(Brundtland, 1987). So, in other words, sustainable development proposes some r estraints on the use of resources, which are to be followed in order to change the present perishing situation of the environment to some extent. It is a known fact that â€Å"poverty is no longer inevitable,†thus, such a world, is â€Å"prone to ecological and other catastrophes†(Brundtland, 1987). ... Even after they are implemented, there arise several changes in the environment, which curb the overall impact that the strategies might have had, had the environment remained the same as to when the plans were originally prepared. Therefore, it becomes clear that there are a lot of issues which stand in the way of environmental sustainability and its success. According to the Brundtland report, some of these issues include population growth, â€Å"food security, species and ecosystems, energy, industry and the urban challenge†(Brundtland, 1987). Population growth relates with not just the ever increasing number of people on the planet, but also the way in which this â€Å"number relate(s) to available resources†(Brundtland, 1987). The resources available are limited, but the population keeps on expanding, thus making it obvious that sooner or later consumption would increase so much that the resources would be finished off completely. Another factor that poses an iss ue is the unawareness or lack of knowledge on part of the greater number of people, who do not know how to use the resources efficiently. Therefore, the increasing population demands for increase in educational facilities and awareness programs, in addition to increase in other requirements such as food, health care, energy supplies etc. The problem in terms of food security is that though the production of food has increased rapidly â€Å"food is often not available where it is needed†(Brundtland, 1987). Thus, poor people frequently suffer from hunger and starvation. Similarly, when population grows, environmental risks such as pollution through means of increased number of transportation, factories and other chemical wastes also increase. In the case of species and
Rebuilt Marketing Machine Essay Example for Free
Rebuilt Marketing Machine Essay Per the article The Rebuilt Marketing Machine by Victoria L. Crittenden, the additional 4C’s of strategic marketing are customer centrality, competitive capabilities, company collaborations and cynical connections. Starting with customer centrality, studying what the customer needs and wants are. Creating solutions for all of the different customers wants instead of forcing the customer into a product. Consumers are all about the customer and the customer experience, ensuring the best service. Competitive capabilities open the door with worldwide web allowing most business to have an opportunity to portray themselves as worldwide leaders. Competition leads many businesses to strive for success and beyond. Therefore competitive capabilities allow business to think of ways to improve their businesses. The third C, company collaboration, is an advantage to companies where you can take superior business and combine business to provide customers the best of both worlds. Company collaboration allows marketing to interfere with other departments to ensure high quality of services. The last C in strategic marketing, cyclical connections are vital to the business world through its strategic planning, great marketing skills will be proved through the outcome of business. In order for a company to succeed, a strong formula must be implemented. Although the 4Ps still remain popular in marketing, the matrix needs to be rebuilt due to it no longer being successful for businesses. Business men all know the 4Ps marketing mix framework, due to its common sense there are no longer any advantages. In today’s world, marketing is the key to success and finding ways to better concepts for business success all around the world since marketing is always changing. The gist to marketing is impleme nting new ideas for business success, using the aged idea of the 4Ps is no longer comparative to the advancement of the business world today. Comparing the 4Cs to 3Cs, Porters 5 Forces, SWOT analysis, BCG Matrix is important since they all support different ideas. Starting with SWOT analysis, finding out what the strength and weaknesses for business allows better strategy for business growth. SWOT analysis defines the pros and cons of the business where as the 4Cs finds ways to improve the weaknesses. SWOT analysis bring consistency to a business, however if combined with 4Cs it would allow great marketing strategy. Porters 5 forces focus on competition and striving for the top name in leading business. This strategic plan uses the strength and weaknesses of other companies through their own annual reports, financial statements, and mysterious shoppers, etc, to find ways to better business. Whereas company collaboration in the 4Cs, focuses on marketing function in conjunction with other areas in the organization. This allows companies to make decisions on ideas as a whole and not just one team making a decision. The BCG Matrix only focuses on two items the SBU market growth rate and the SBU relative market share, this matrix is based on assumptions and is biased. Due to this the 4Cs implements greater ideas since the BCG focuses on profitability and market share and does not support other marketing ideas. The 3Cs is somewhat similar to the 4Cs however the 4Cs are more thorough in the idea of marketing. The 3Cs provides types of questions to ask yourself when opening a business which are common sense. However, the 4Cs are in depth details of important marketing strategies for building a successful business. In my opinion the marketing mix framework is consumers oriented and fits better in the movement for mass marketing to niche marketing. However, it is out dated and needs to be revised with careful consideration of what the customer wants and needs are. Adding new elements to the framework to ensure better marketing techniques, such as adding another â€Å"P†for customers (people) because without business from the customers, companies will not grow. Also, finding ways to better the customer experience so that customer will be a returning customer and not only focus on making money. The customer will be using social media to rate businesses, speak to family and friends about that customer service experience and are the key for business success.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Strategic And Coherent Approach To Management Commerce Essay
Strategic And Coherent Approach To Management Commerce Essay Human Resource Management is defined as a strategic and coherent approach to the management of an organisations most valued assets the people working there who individually and collectively contribute to the achievement of its objectives. (Armstrong, 2006) Businesses of the 21st century call upon the HR to play a greater role in achieving their objectives. HR is an indispensible tool in the successful working of any organisation and it is essential to incorporate HRM strategies in the planning of the organisation to attain its goals and objectives. Organisations now have to deal with a fast changing environment to which they need to respond quickly and innovatively while being constantly faced with a greater amount of risk than ever before. They are constantly searching for and implementing various survival strategies in this highly competitive and dynamic business world. In order to maintain a sustained effort for betterment, organisations now need to recruit people, who can find creative and intelligent solutions. Thus, the employment of an effective HR strategy that develops the organisations people is essential to facilitate the necessary changes within the business. Role of HRM: Any organisation needs to set goals for itself and strategize how these goals are to be achieved and then structure itself by deciding whom to allot this responsibility. The responsibilities of the HRM or the functions carried out by them within the organisation can be enlisted as follows: HR Planning: It is the practice by which the HRM reviews the supply of employees. They review whether the firm requires to recruit further or to reduce the number of employees depending upon the status of the firm. Job Analysis: This is the process by which the HR examines detailed information about jobs. Every available job in the firm and advertises for recruitment purposes accordingly, so as to attract skilled people. Recruitment: The HR, having advertised for jobs, receives a number of applications from which they identify and recruit suitable employees for the firm. Orientation: Once the recruitment process is over, the HR begins an induction program during which the new recruits are informed about the organisation, their background, their working methods and ethics, as well as introduce them to the other members of the organisation. Training: The next step is the development and training of the employees to equip them with technical skills, interpersonal skills and problem solving skills in order to enhance their performance and increase productivity for the company. Share Information: It becomes the responsibility of the HR to ensure that information is shared uniformly with all employees to increase their knowledge base. Appraisals: The HR evaluates the performance of the employees in periodic intervals through various methods, such as, multiple comparisons and feedbacks from co-workers and supervisors. These appraisals form the basis of the employees promotions, pay rises and other incentives. Motivation: In order to ensure the employees put in their best efforts in their respective jobs, the HR devises ways to sustain the interest of the employees and encourage them in contributing more and more to the firm. Maintain Welfare: The healthy maintenance of any organisations human resource largely depends on the working conditions, comforts and facilities provided to its employees. The HR plays a vital role in this area. They are to be readily available and pay heed to the needs of the employees, analyse their problems and find solutions to them. Retain Talent: This is done through career development, providing job security, compensation programs and skill based pay. Derecruitment: The HR discharges incapable employees to keep up with the requirements of an ever changing business environment. Labour Relations: One of the most significant roles of the HR is to ensure the smooth functioning of the firm and preventing strikes by the employees by maintaining good relations between the management and the employees. The HRM is therefore, responsible for managing the people of any organisation, as assets of that business and harmonizing their capabilities with the needs of the organisation. They encourage team spirit and coordination for smooth functioning of groups of people within the organisation. They play a key role in ensuring a long-term and sustained competitive advantage for any organisation. They are able to acquire this when the highest amount of value added is achieved by the employees and by creating a culture of innovation that is unique to the organisation. As the HRM employs methods that lead to high performance work systems, the beneficial results can be seen on the employee and the organisation end. As the employee is more involved in the organisation and grows in experience, he gains by way of job satisfaction leading to efficiency in work performance. Thus, the organization benefits as the productivity levels go up, the quality improves, more flexibility is infused into the system and finally the customer is satisfied. However, it also becomes the responsibility of the HRM to assume a more professional role, to maintain its honesty and integrity and keeping in mind at all times the interests of the customers and the employees alike. Strategic Goals and Objectives of any Organisation: Every business creates a vision for its future in order to ascertain its both short term and long term goals. This requires creative imagination. It is the strength of this imagination that powers the entire business process. However, a clear definition of the goals is required to be made in order to ensure that these objectives are attained. One of the most important goals is the performance objective and the individual performance strongly needs to be integrated with the objectives of the business. This is where the HR comes in. It is their responsibility to bring out and relate an individuals performance objectives to the performance objective of the business. While the HR challenges are greater than ever before, so too are the opportunities of the companies to excel through people strategies. (Strack et al., 2008) Competitive advantages may come from 2 kinds of sources in any organisation: Traditional ways/sources of competitive advantages Financial/economic Product capabilities Technological capability Organisational capability Generic strategies for gaining competitive advantages Cost leadership Product differentiation Search others Human Resource Management can be used to gain Competitive Advantage: The idea that individual employee performance can impact the performance of the firm positively has been studied for decades. However, the study has moved forward and put forth the notion that all the employees of a firm can together give a higher competitive advantage and bring about a greater improvement on the firms performance. This is possible only when a number of criteria are satisfied, namely, the employees are adding positively to the production, they have a unique talent or skill to offer and more importantly, the employees are not subject to replacement or substitution by technology. It is argued that employees are usually not working at their optimum levels and hence are underutilized. The HRM can play a significant role here in bringing them up to efficient levels and utilizing their potential to the optimum level by facilitating comfortable working conditions, motivating them, developing their skills and providing enhanced product knowledge through regular training, providing an organized structural base and give some amount of independence in their working and a flexible culture within the organization. This is sure to increase the output of the employees over and above the cost of such provisions. Further, the HRM can ensure better performance of the employees at the initial stage through careful selection and recruitment of qualified and skilled individuals. These skilled employees can turn out to be unproductive too unless provided with sufficient motivation. The HRM can again, motivate the employees to work harder and better by providing them with incentives that are linked to performance, which is assessed on a regular basis through evaluations of individual or groups of employees. Incentives may be provided in the form of promotions. Again, an organized structural base can be provided through tools such as, cross functional teams, job rotation and greater participation by allowing them the opportunity to freely use better ways of working. Thus, if the HRM can affect or influence the performance of the employees to maximize their output, they are in turn, improving the performance of the organisation and increasing their productivity. How is theory linked with practice? Explain with examples. The HRM today is not only responsible for managing teams of employees but also, for diversity both within the organisation and outside, constant change and increased globalisation. This is not an easy task. The HR when faced with resistance to adapt to change, ignorance by the policy makers as well as political considerations, finds it hard to employ the best HR practices in real terms. Amongst other challenges faced by the HR, we can mention those involving getting the people to accept change. The HR deals with resistance when bringing about any changes in the working methods, attitude of workers or values of the organisation. Moreover, globalisation has resulted in multicultural backgrounds of employees that pose a new kind of challenge for the HR, wherein they need to develop strategies catering to the needs of each of them. How HRM will help in developing organisational culture? Organisational Culture Focus on innovative and flexible environment The HR integrates the needs of the organisation with those of the employees and helps in developing the organisations culture by creating a positive attitude amongst the employees. Factors which the management should consider: Effective HR practices play a significant role in the economic growth of any country. In my opinion, the management needs to keep in mind that their actions have a macro level effect. The policies and training provided by them to the employees not only contribute towards the specific concern they are currently working for, but towards the nation as a whole. They are preparing individuals for the future. The professional development acquired by the employees at any particular firm carries forward to the next employment as well and remains with them for years to come. Hence, with their inputs and efforts, the HRM is not only enhancing the performance of the individual firm, but is augmenting the nations economy. Conclusion: Thus, we may conclude that organized HRM can provide a sustained economic growth and a competitive advantage when aligned with the strategic business plans of a company. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ can be placed elsewhere as per need. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ a misfit here I dont see the need or connection with the topic
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
The History Of Break Even Analysis
The History Of Break Even Analysis The initial capital requirement is estimated to be $50,000 to $60,000. The sales margin is expected to be 7-10%, whereby each business segment contributes differently to sales and earnings. The classical logistics segment, of all segments, will have an average contribution to sales in relative terms (6.5%), but given the high sales volume, the largest in absolute terms. Revenues from transportation services can be differentiated into those from low priced single services to comprehensive and long-term transportation. The sale of services is expected to generate a 12% to 15% sales margin, while the margin from sales of services is expected to be closer to about 10%. Figure 7.1 shows the source of revenues by segment during the start-up phase. Depending on the initial investment sum, cost and revenue estimates vary. Figure 7.2 shows the expected relationship of cost and revenues. As can be seen, the relationship is not linear everywhere, but costs decrease relative to sales at an initial investment of $50,000. This effect is due to the better utilization of capacities in personnel at rising revenues at constant cost. If capacity is fully utilized, additional personnel must be recruited. At an investment sum of $100,000, administrative costs are expected to return to a linear relationship of sales. At sales levels between $1,000,000 to $2,000,000, costs increase by the factor 1.85. The cost revenue relationship is important, not only during the start-up phase, but also for planned further expansion. Often such expansion strategies are based on this relationship. Other industries are able to generate cost savings of 30-50% during expansion periods, whilefor the logistics industry, this factor is close to 15%. At a specific s ize, this relationship reverses because administrative costs rise sharply. This affects small businesses between 10 and 20 employees most severely. Investment Plan The investment plan comprises primary capital needs for the foundation and operation of an international logistics company with different products and services for sale. The plan also includes initial marketing and sales promotion expenses. Break-even Analysis The break-even analysis shows how earnings rise as a function of sales. The break-even point is the point at which revenues from sales cover total costs (fix costs and costs rising with sales). This analysis is important for the development of the liquidity plan. If the break-even point is not achieved, in the long run the business loses liquidity and may become insolvent. This requires that a critical amount of revenues must be generated. At sale revenue of $600,000 and given fixed costs, the business will generate a profit. Fixed costs are estimated at $120, 0000 to $130,0000 and variable costs at $480,0000. At realizable revenue of $10,000,000 after 2-3 years profits will rise to $700000 pre-tax. This represents an earnings margin of 10% pre-tax and 7% after-tax. These estimates are realistic in this market segment. Increasing sales volume will increase pre-tax earnings margins, but this development reverses when administrative costs begin to rise sharply. Up to a sales volume of $3,000,000, earnings margins rise to 12.5%, after which the margin decreases to constant 11.5%. Figure 7.3 shows at which critical sales volume the business generates a profit. This serves as a base for a pricing strategy. Additionally, the graph shows the amount of sales at which a marketing campaign can be run profitably. Liquidity Plan The liquidity plan shows the amount of finances necessary to assure permanent liquidity of the business. The plan is based on 4 representative months of a typical business with 3 to 5 employees, annual sales of $1,300,000 and net profits of about $300,000. Revenue estimates are drawn from a standard normal distribution. Earnings Plan The earnings plan shows the results from ordinary operations. The plan is based on the first 4 years of business. Revenue estimates are drawn from a normal distribution with an estimated growth rate of 20 to 30%. Figure 7.4 shows profit over time. Risk Analysis The risk analysis considers critical factors that may lead to a failure of the business concept. Such factors can involve failures during the implementation phase, as well as during operations. Such potential factors are ordered according to the probability at which they can arise. Shown is the key factor that led to the failure only. Data are drawn from questionnaires of 10 logistics Businesses with comparable product offerings and revenue- and cost structures That went bankrupt during the last 3 years, as well as analyses of different research institutes. Insufficient demand: This is the most frequent reason that leads to business failure. This includes permanently low demand, as well as a temporary collapse in demand. Often demand estimates were too optimistic at the outset. Such failures might also come from external shocks instead of operating deficiencies. 19% of businesses with insufficient demand go bankrupt. 50% of these businesses report that, once demand slacked, they did not react accordingly, because they believed that this phenomenon was only temporary. Since the expected frequency of customers during the start-up phase is still low, a critical success factor is to focus promotional effort so as to generate customer loyalty early on, which will help minimize the effects of demand fluctuations. This is also important for the future development of the business. Behavior of Competition: Due to low entry barriers, additional businesses can enter the market at low cost. Approximately 16% of insolvent businesses were driven out of the market by that competition. A better service concept, innovative ideas and concentration on core businesses are easy means for an entrant to gain a competitive edge. Personnel and capacity utilization: Often personnel capacity cannot be adjusted easily when demand slows down. Currently, business services have a capacity utilization rate of personnel of 70%, i.e. 70% of employee working hours can be directly credited to sales. At small businesses this value is often lower, which means that 30% of working hours arise without generating any further revenue. 13% of such businesses go bankrupt for this reason. Liquidity constraints: Another frequent reasons for bankruptcy is insufficient liquidity. In that case, it is possible that all liquid funds are used to cover losses or that liquidity needs were planned too tight. To be able to flexibly react to changing liquidity needs, it is important that sufficient funds be planned, even during the start-up phase. Thus, 5-10% of the investment sum should be held as liquidity reserve permanently. 13% of insolvent businesses reported liquidity as the reason for bankruptcy. Over-indebtedness: Many business are run on a small equity base. The majority of investments are funded by debt. If the business becomes unprofitable, debt obligations cannot be covered. Little more over 10% of insolvent firms reported over-indebtedness as the reason for going bankrupt. It is therefore important that a share of earnings is retained for debt service. Macroeconomic Conditions: In a cyclical downturn, revenue expectations may not come in according to expectation. Although this factor does not affect the business in itself, it does have an impact on profitability, liquidity and leverage. Costs remain constant during such periods, but revenues typically decrease which affects overall profitability. 10% of all insolvent businesses report that they went bankrupt due to macroeconomic conditions, although the relevant indicators of the business looked healthy. Location and market: The market of the business and the selection of the right potential customers is an important success factor and one of the fundamental decisions that has an impact on the future prosperity of the firm. Therefore, a careful analysis is necessary. More than 10% of insolvent businesses reported that they went bankrupt because of the wrong market selection. Often start-ups did not consider that, even when the choice of market may not be wrong at the outset, it may later become so when economic conditions worsen. This may be due to structural changes or different interest of customers. Wrong Business Decisions: Often wrong business decisions and difficult situations go unnoticed for some period, which can lead to a failure of the business. A critical and independent reflection of a decision is critical factors to determine the value of a management decision and evaluate the business profitability. Studies have shown that many businesses fail in their start-up phase because of managementà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s inability to make sound business decisions, while once a business is settled, such mistakes are very rare. A critical management instrument is the ability to detect potential failures and problems. Certain key figures can help measure this ability and objectively determine a decisions chance for success. Small businesses should use such indicator ratios to assess their Business outlooks. Figure 7.5 shows the relative importance of each factor for businesses that went bankrupt. The numbers are based on the most relevant reason that triggered bankruptcy, but not the reason responsible for bankruptcy. External factors that changed the competitive environment and changing macroeconomic conditions were the most important reasons relative to internal factors Sources http://www.storeboard.com/blogs/business/business-plan-template-for-accounting-services-sample-only/134 (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })() http://www.docstoc.com/docs/11207319/Business-Plan-for-a-Logistics-Company
Monday, August 19, 2019
Nikes Plan for China Essay -- Nike Sales Retail Business Marketing Es
Nike's Plan for China Nike is already a global power house, however the potential to increase sales in China was the topic of the most recent annual investor meeting. One may question Nike’s preoccupation with China. After all, Nike China is dominant. They are currently the number one brand with the number one market share while competitors Reebok and Adidas are in 4th and 5th places respectively. They have tripled revenue in the last two years. With 2000 points of sale, 400 stores in the top three cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) and 50 cities with 3 or more stores, Nike is primed to begin pushing into the second tier cities. Let’s examine â€Å"why China? â€Å" Socially, China presents a portrait of change. The attitudes and preferences of today's generation of "twenty-something" consumers diverges markedly from those of their parents' generation. In fact, in the economically churning coastal cities, this gap is as wide as ever and growing, leading to comparisons between China toda y and the 1960s in Europe and the United States. Nike sees a large and growing market for its products in China. China has: †¢ 20% of the world’s population. †¢ 50 million middle class households. †¢ 430 million youth under the age of 20 (5X the number of youth in the US). †¢ 50 million middle class households –- which will grow to 150 million in next 10 years. †¢ 65% of its youth involved in sports. †¢ A consumer market that embraces brands -- particularly Western brands. †¢ 300 million people expected to move from rural areas to the cities in the next 10 years. With this information in mind, Nike has created a strategic marketing plan to strengthen their position in the China market. The Global supply chain is in place, now they just need a strategy. But, before Nike can execute their well laid plans, they must first do a little damage control. In 2004, Nike advertisements featuring basketball star LeBron James slaying a Chinese dragon and a kung fu master were banned in China and met with a flurry of criticism. The TV commercial offended government regulators because it showed an American sports icon defeating the dragon, a symbol of Chinese culture, and the martial arts master, a symbol of national pride. Nike clearly disrespected the Chinese culture, and was forced to pull the ads and apologize. Nike spokeswoman Shelley Peng said th... ...arket. However, Nike's estimates suggest it will maintain its lead in China after the merger. Nike said it has 30 percent of the Chinese athletic market, trailed by Adidas's 19 percent. The inclusion of Reebok will catapult Adidas's share to 27 percent. How is Nike’s strategy working? A survey asked Chinese which brands were the coolest. The results came in: Nike 52%; Adidas 38%; Reebok 15%; Li-Ning 13%; and New Balance 10%. Bibliography Nike China (NKE) growing fast (4Q05 conf call) The China Stock Blog Brands in Transition: Making it Work in China 2005/04/12 by Christopher Millward, Beijing This Month Nike China (NKE) growing fast (4Q05 conf call) The China Stock Blog 2005 Business Report & Independent Online, www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=2337753 2005 Business Report & Independent Online, www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=2337753 Nike China (NKE) growing fast (4Q05 conf call) The China Stock Blog CSRwire, http://www.csrwire.com/article.cgi/2411.html Beijing This Month, featured in Business Beijing, July 2005 China Daily Online. Adidas, Reebok vie against Nike for China market(Bloomberg) 2005-08-09 10:31 JUNE 29, 2005 -- Nike Investor Day Recap
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Lady In A Rocking Chair Essay -- essays research papers
Back … forth … back … forth … she sits in her creaky rocking chair pleasantly reminiscing about her lost childhood as she crochets a warm fuzzy quilt for her granddaughter. Out of nowhere her desire to finish the quilt before noon fades and she find her attention drifting towards the window and looking at a giant maple tree bejeweled in sparkling frost. The tree is old and withered, it has aged immensely; it is somewhat like the old woman … even the texture of the bark is likened to the wrinkles on her face and body. Beyond the bark there is a history of both painful wounds and happy memories, each and every one just as vivid as the next. It is astounding how this tree, such an ordinary and natural commodity can bring back so many fond and colorful memories. One of the lower branches of the tree appears to be mangled and frayed. She remembers it when it was in perfect condition, housing a handmade, wooden swing hanging from a brand new strand of coarse r ope. Over the years the rope had turned from a brilliant golden-yellow to an almost brownish-amber. She would come home each day and was always comforted by that same tree and that same swing, though she never understood why because to everyone else, it was just a tree, but to her, it was as comforting as a warm fuzzy blanket. She remembered attending her first day of school when she was a young child. Everything was so unfamiliar to her; new faces, new voices, a whole new world she could then discover on her own, without her mother holding her hand. Unfortunately the fun she expected to have did not go as she could have hoped. It was a seldom occurrence for anyone to ask her to play with them. She spent most of the school day in seclusion quietly playing in the corner with an array of plastic blocks. At certain points she just wanted to cry or go back home to the warm, loving arms of her mother; that is where she felt safe and shielded from the evil of the world. Somehow, no matter how bad her day had gone, her mother could always make it all go away with a soft kiss to the cheek and a gentle pat on the bum. She would always pack a nutritious lunch for her to take to school. There was something about the way a mother makes a sandwich that makes it taste so much better than when you try to make it yourself , maybe it’s because it’s made w... ...t year, the worst happened. She was diagnosed with cancer, the same kind her mother had died from just a few years back. The bad news hit her like a ton of bricks. Ingo attempted to ease her pain by taking her out and doing all sorts of fun activities, but she found herself getting even more depressed and frustrated every time they went out. To her, it was just a reminder of the bad news and what was yet to come. Her condition began to worsen each and every day. It was unbearable for the family to watch, and as painful as it was to do, they began to avoid her. Anytime they tried to comfort her, she would only snap at them, even though she knew they were only trying to help and had her best interests at heart. Here she sits, rocking in her rocking chair, back … forth … back … forth … with her quilt nearly finished now. Her rocking chair creaks with each subtle movement and eventually the creaking diminishes to a faint sound and finally no sound at all. She had left the world in peace quicker than she had entered it but still much too soon. I guess it’s true what they say about your life flashing before your eyes just before you die.
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Articles of Confederation Essay
During the fight for their independence, Americans were trying to create a new republican government. Their desire was to have a political system in which the majority of the power would come from the people rather than from a supreme authority. As a result, the Articles of Confederation was formed and adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777. In the years of 1781 to 1789, the Articles were put into action and gave limits powers to the national authority, Congress. However, the Articles of Confederation in its critical period, 1781 to 1789, had severe weaknesses in its legislative branch, voting powers, powers of Congress, and states’ sovereignty which led to debts, problems with expansion and unity, and lack of change, development, and representation. Unlike the fore coming Constitution, the Articles of Confederation only had a legislature branch with limited powers which brought forth problems dealing with amendments, taking important measures, and state representation. The Articles stated that each state would have one vote and have between two to seven representers. This would become a problem for many delegates taking long journeys to Congress which would lead to a lack of representation from states like Georgia and Maine. Often seasonal weathers would delay or hinder representers to arrive and cast their votes. In addition, in order for important measures to be placed into action, at least nine of the states had to approve of it. Due to states’ different interest and way of sustaining its people, agreements were hardly made by the majority. Many states had different opinions and voiced out different ideas which contradicts other. This lack of approval by at least nine of the states led to a lack of change. In addition, any amendments like increasing central power and dealing issues involving slaves and women would have to be approved by every state. Similar to approving important measures, states would often disagree on certain circumstances which results in few or none amendments made. Therefore, many aspects of the legislature branch and states’ voting power have weaknesses and led to many problems. In addition to having one branch of power, Congress’s, the only establishment of national authority, lack of power led to heavy debts, depression, and Shay’s Rebellion. Congress’s power included waging wars, managing foreign relations, and borrowing and issuing money. However it was not allowed to regulate commerce, raise and maintain an army, and levy taxes on the people directly. Although Congress made formal requests, involving troops and taxes to the state, it was frequently refused. This lack to power caused America to go into a postwar depression, inadequate money supply, and inability to pay back debts it owed to foreign nations. In addition, Congress owed money to its soldier from selling war bonds. Depressed and frustrated veterans joined forces under Daniels Shays in Massachusetts and set of demands that consisted of paper money, tax relief particularly from state, relocation of state capital, and ending of imprisonment for debt. As a result of these problems, many Americans started to notice the flaws and imperfections of the Articles of Confederation. In addition, each state of America had almost all of its sovereignty and decision making which increased a lack of national unity and problems with expansion, the West, and foreign relations.
James Moloney Gracy
Gracey is the second in James Moloney’s contemporary trilogy that deals with a range of issues facing Aboriginal society. In this text, Gracey finds herself confused about her identity, caught between the worlds of her Aboriginal background and the Anglo-Saxon environment of her exclusive boarding school. Gracey’s family has recently relocated to the outback town of Cunningham, however she feels estranged from the community.Gracey’s school friend, Angela, has come to visit and seems intrigued by Cunningham, however Gracey is impatient and embarrassed by her home. Intolerant of younger brother Dougy and the prospect of becoming yet another single Aboriginal mother in Cunningham, she is eager to return to Brisbane. Gracey lives and acts ‘white’. Dougy meanwhile uncovers a mass grave of aboriginal bones in the small town, prompting an outrage by the local black community.They wish to reclaim the land and demand answers surrounding the death of these men . Gracey too becomes enthralled by the mystery, researching mass killings of Aborigines. She is shocked by her discoveries but becomes impassioned for the first time about her people and her heritage. When Gracey’s mother dies, she returns home to Cunningham and assumes the matriarchal role, taking care of her two brothers. Raymond, her older alcoholic brother, drinks all of his social security money, leaving the family penniless.He is aggressive and lost. Dougy has also become more apathetic, spending much of his time roaming the town foraging through rubbish. As a result of the discovery of the mass grave, the Aborigines in Cunningham participate in a protest march which results in Raymond and Dougy being thrown into the watch house overnight. This is Dougy’s first brush with the law, however Raymond has spent many nights in the town jail. Despondent and depressed about his future, Raymond hangs himself in his cell.
Friday, August 16, 2019
Nick’s View That Gatsby Essay
How far do you agree with Nick’s view that Gatsby is â€Å"worth the whole damn bunch put together†? The title character of The Great Gatsby is a young man, around thirty years old, who rose from an impoverished childhood in rural North Dakota to become fabulously wealthy. Indeed, Gatsby has become famous around New York for the elaborate parties held every weekend at his mansion, ostentatious spectacles to which people long to be invited. And yet, Nick Carraway’s description of the protagonist asserts that Gatsby seems curiously out of place among the ‘whole damn bunch’ which inhabit this lavish, showy world. Indeed, despite the aura of criminality surrounding his occupation, his love and loyalty to Daisy Buchanan and ultimately his capacity to dream, set him apart from the inhabitants of East Egg and West Egg. A key criticism made in Nick’s first person, self-aware and retrospective narration is that the ‘whole damn bunch’ entertained by Gatsby lives in extravagance. In Chapter Three, comparative adjectives and adverbs allude to the idea that the parties they attend grow ever increasingly lavish; the narrator expresses how ‘laughter is easier’, an ‘opera of voices pitches a key higher’ and ‘groups change more quickly’. In fact, the sheer scale of the operation required to keep them excited is emphasised by details that Nick gives, including ‘a machine in the kitchen which could extract the juice of two hundred oranges in half an hour if a little button was pressed two hundred times by a butler’s thumb.’ But the ‘vacuous bursts of laughter’ and the dancing ‘in eternal graceless circles’ lend a degree of artificiality to the proceedings. Indeed, the tone of the narration reveals another major shortcoming, suggesting that this outward show of opulence by the inhabitants of West Egg and East Egg is used to cover up their inner corruption and moral decay. This decadence is first exemplified by the length of festivities. Nick states that after ‘the first supper’, ‘there would be another one after midnight.’ Society’s moral compass seems to invert completely, Nick ironically asserting that there were ‘two deplorably sober men’. Being drunk appears to be proper behaviour at such a party. Moreover, Fitzgerald’s comical use of voice suggests that being sober is more than just frowned upon, ‘their highly indignant wives’ exclaiming that they ‘have never heard anything so selfish in my life.’ But other guests contribute to this air of corruption; for example, the predatory nature of ‘Young Englishmen’ selling bonds is stressed by anaphora: ‘all well-dressed, all looking a little bit hungry, and all talking in low, earnest voices to solid and prosperous Americans.’ Such obsession with money is further emphasised by musical language and assonance; they were ‘agonizingly aware of the easy money and convinced that it was theirs for a few words in the right key.’ And as time passes, such vices become ever more apparent. Increasingly ‘women were now having fights with men said to be their husbands’, ‘said to be’ suggesting that some may have brought mistresses rather than partners. Nick observes one man philandering with ‘a young actress’, with his wife present. Her anger is humorously emphasised by simile, the narrator comparing her to ‘an angry diamond’. She ‘broke down entirely and resorted to flank attacks’, reduced to hissing into his ear, ‘You promised!’ By the end, the function had turned into ‘violent confusion’. Fitzgerald’s use of characterisation also emphasises the flaws of those immediately around Gatsby, Tom Buchanan in particular. Tom is Daisy’s husband, an extremely wealthy man, a brute, and an athlete. And his vices become apparent from the beginning of the book. His ignorance is brought out when he praises the ridiculous notions of ‘The Rise of the Coloured Empires’ that ‘the white race’, which is ‘the dominant race’ has to ‘watch out or other races will have control of things.’ The way he refers to it as ‘science and art, and all that’ and ‘scientific stuff’ only undermines his racist viewpoints even further. But more importantly, Tom is deeply immoral, Jordan Baker informing the narrator that ‘Tom’s got some woman in New York’. Nick is so incensed by Tom’s affair that his ‘own instinct was to telephone immediately for the police’. In fact, only a few months after their wedding, he appears to have had a fling with ‘one of the chambermaids in the Santa Barbara Hotel’. This series of affairs must have caused his wife some emotional damage. He does not even turn up to the birth of their daughter, Daisy casually informing Nick that ‘Tom was God knows where.’ In this way, Tom is neither attentive nor sensitive towards Daisy, especially in contrast with Gatsby. But Tom is not just unscrupulous but abusive. When Nick meets him in Chapter One, he asserts that he had ‘a cruel body’ which was ‘always leaning aggressively forward.’ And though Carraway never sees him being violent with his wife, there are hints of his unbridled physicality when Daisy reveals a bruise on her finger that, although accidental, was caused by that ‘brute of a man’. She says ‘accusingly’ that ‘you did it, Tom’. But the brutal streak really comes across when Tom is with his mistress. ‘With a short, deft movement’ he ‘broke her nose with his open hand.’ But the title character too has his flaws. Like ‘the whole damn bunch’, Gatsby lives extravagantly, replacing a guest’s damaged dress with one costing ‘two hundred and sixty-five dollars’. And like ‘the whole damn bunch’, he has made unethical choices, in his case in acquiring his fortune. Speculation among his guests first alludes to such decisions, Fitzgerald using the method of choric voices. Although various theories that ‘he killed a man once’ or that ‘he was a German spy during the war’ may appear unrealistic, later speculation, from Tom Buchanan in particular, does start to blemish Nick’s idealised conception of Gatsby. When they first meet, Tom presumes that Gatsby is ‘some big bootlegger’. This assumption may not be wrong, the antagonist discovering that Gatsby ‘and Wolfshiem bought up a lot of side-street drug-stores here and in Chicago and sold grain alcohol over the counter’. In this way, though Nick never quite finds out what Gatsby did for a living, his greatest vice appears to be the source of his income. But while Tom’s report would never be objective, Fitzgerald’s characterisation of Wolfsheim also hints at the aura of criminality surrounding Gatsby. The author’s use of voice emphasises the gambler’s sleaze, pronouncing ‘connection’ as ‘gonnegtion’ and ‘Oxford’ as ‘Oggsford’. But he also appears sinister, wearing ‘cuff’ buttons made of ‘human molars’. Wolfsheim’s criminality is confirmed when Gatsby informs Nick that ‘he’s the man who fixed the World’s Series back in 1919.’ But the gambler may be involved in more dangerous activities than simply fixing baseball matches. Wolfsheim’s own dialogue suggests that he has experience in activities where men end up dead, explaining to Nick that ‘when a man gets killed I never like to get mixed up in it in any way. I keep out.’ The mysterious phone calls which Gatsby receives in no way vindicate him either. His reunion with Daisy is interrupted by one such call, the use of ellipses adding a sense of secrecy to his subsequent conversation: ‘Yes †¦ Well, I can’t talk now †¦ I can’t talk now, old sport †¦ I said a small town †¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ The confidential nature of the suggested business dealing may imply that Gatsby’s work is not legitimate. In fact, only after Gatsby’s death does he find out what would be said on the other end of the line. When Nick is mistaken for the title character, ‘Slagle’ rapidly explains that ‘Young Parke’s in trouble’ and that ‘they picked him up when he handed the bonds over the counter.’ Words such as ‘trouble’ and ‘picked him up’ suggest that one of Gatsby’s subordinates may have landed himself on the wrong side of the law. Furthermore, the ‘frightened’ nature of Gatsby’s so-called ‘friend’ Klipspringer again alludes to the criminality of Gatsby’s business acquaintances. Over the telephone, Klipspringer even ‘demanded to know who I was before he would give his name.’ For such reasons, when Wolfsheim recalls how close he and Gatsby were, ‘thick like that in everything’, the narrator ‘wondered if this partnership had included the World’s Series transaction in 1919.’ Such implications about the way Gatsby has accrued his fortune also expose his deceit. In fact, early in the plot the title character lies to Carraway by saying that his wealth was inherited, that he is ‘the son of some wealthy people in the Middle West – all dead now.’ He also states that he was ‘brought up in America but educated at Oxford, because all my ancestors have been educated there for many years.’ In reality Gatsby rose from an impoverished childhood in rural North Dakota. His dishonesty is closely linked to his lack of authenticity. Indeed, Nick notices the manufactured aspects of his personality, put on to promote the image of the ‘Oxford’ man which he claims to be. The writer’s use of voice underlines his slightly forced characteristics. These include his affected accent – ‘an elaborate formality of speech’ which ‘just missed being absurd’ and his habit of calling people ‘old sport’. Moreover, Fitzgerald’s use of scene and place, his library specifically, alludes to the idea that he is not genuine. Owl-Eyes, one of his invited guests, is surprised that the millionaire’s books are ‘absolutely real – have pages and everything’, rather than being made out of ‘nice durable cardboard.’ This reaction implies a belief that so much about him is fake. Even when he realises its authenticity, Owl-Eyes compares him to ‘a regular Belasco’, a Broadway producer known for the realism of his sets. Thus, though he is putting on act, this theatrical persona which he has mastered is still a very convincing act. Indeed, The novel’s title itself – ‘The Great Gatsby’ – is suggestive of the sort of vaudeville billing for a performer or magician like ‘The Great Houdini’, again subtly emphasising the showy and perhaps illusory quality of Gatsby’s life. But despite both the nature of his work and this theatrical quality, Nick still suggests that Gatsby does not share the same level of moral decadence as the ‘whole damn bunch’ in his circle. Chapter Three serves to separate his personality from that of his guests. Anaphora underlines how he remains an outsider at his own function, Nick asserting that ‘no one swooned backward on Gatsby, and no French bob touched Gatsby’s shoulder, and no singing quartets were formed with Gatsby’s head for one link.’ Antithesis also contrasts Gatsby from the company he entertains; while ‘no one swooned backward on Gatsby’, girls were ‘swooning backward playfully into men’s arms’ Indeed, unlike the decadents he entertains, ‘he grew more correct as fraternal hilarity increased’. Gatsby’s acquaintances also reveal his merits. Meyer Wolfsheim stresses the basic nobility which defines his character, telling Carraway that he is ‘a man of fine breeding’, ‘the kind of man you’d like to take home and introduce to your mother and sister.’ Moreover, before the funeral, Gatsby’s father also underlines his son’s good nature by stating that ‘ever since he made a success he was very generous with me’. But he also reveals Gatsby’s great ambition and desire for self-improvement. Mr Gatz tells Nick that ‘Jimmy was bound to get ahead. He always had some resolves like this or something’ and that he placed great emphasis on ‘improving his mind’. Indeed, the ‘schedule’ – including activities such as ‘dumbell exercise and wall-scaling’, ‘study electricity’, ‘practise elocution, poise and how to attain it‘ and ‘study n eeded inventions’ – which he made ‘when he was a boy’ reveals that even before he knew what he wanted to be, Gatsby always desired to make something of himself. Furthermore, Chapter Five serves to explain that his method of acquiring millions of dollars, his lavish weekly parties and lifestyle and his manufactured persona are all merely means to a more worthy end. This end is winning back Daisy Buchanan. Indeed, in contrast with Tom’s cruel and unthoughtful treatment of his wife, Nick characterises Gatsby most of all with the admirable qualities of love for and loyalty to her. The title character’s speech alludes to his attempts to ensure that the reunion is perfect, the man asking Nick whether he has ‘got everything you need’. He specifically checks the day’s forecast in the hope that sunshine will emerge during the reunion, informing Nick that ‘they thought the rain would stop about four.’ The writer also uses scenes and places to enhance Gatsby’s need for perfection. For example, the reunion takes place at Nick’s house, perhaps reflecting how Gatsby wanted to meet the love of his life in a more secluded and romantic environment than his gaudy mansion. But Gatsby may also have organised the reunion at Nick’s house to impress Daisy, to give her a view of his ‘huge place’. He himself proclaims that his ‘house looks well’. However, the use of a first-person, self-conscious and retrospective narrator emphasises his efforts most of all. Gatsby almost redecorates Nick’s place, not only sending a man ‘over to cut my grass’ – to make sure the lawn outside was smart – but also adorning the interior with flowers, ‘with innumerable receptacles’. Hyperbole emphasises the extent of this renovation, as if a whole ‘greenhouse arrived.’ Further in the chapter, the author underlines the intensity of his love by presenting Nick’s speculation about Gatsby’s intentions as Gatsby’s actual thoughts. When Daisy goes from Nick’s place to her lover’s, Nick states: ‘I think he revalued everything in his house according to the measure of response it drew from her well-loved eyes’, as if everything he has ever bought or owned has been simply to please her. Moreover, Gatsby’s decision to take the blame for Daisy over the death of Myrtle Wilson – telling Nick that ‘I’ll say I was’ driving – demonstrates the deep love he still feels for her and illustrates the basic nobility that defines his character. The image of a pitiable Gatsby keeping watch outside her house while she and Tom sit comfortably within is an indelible image that allows the reader to look past Gatsby’s criminality. Indeed, the fact that he wants ‘to wait here till Daisy goes to bed’, to protect her even after it appears that Daisy is not going to leave Tom, is a final testament to his undying love for her. Nick leaves Gatsby to watch over Daisy, as if his ‘presence marred the sacredness of the vigil’, the last statement suggesting that his devotion has moved to the extremes of religious worship. And yet, Nick’s final criticism of Gatsby questions the realism of such deep and uncompromising devotion. The parallels between his love for Daisy and religious worship – the title character ‘consumed with wonder at her presence’ – suggest that Gatsby, a man who stakes everything on his ‘dreams’, now appears to have dreamed too big. Even at the beginning of their reunion, Nick recognises the unrealistic nature of his ‘dream’. The way Fitzgerald presents Nick’s speculation about Gatsby’s intentions as Gatsby’s actual thoughts helps demonstrate that ‘there must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams’. Although Daisy possesses a number of virtues, although it is ‘not her own fault’, even she cannot match Gatsby’s ‘dream’. The narrator suggests that his ‘dream’ was so alive, that ‘his illusion’ had such a ‘colossal vitality’, that ‘it had gone beyond her, beyond everything.’ The repetition of ‘beyond’ emphasises that she cannot live up to Gatsby’s idealised expectations. The author’s use of poetic prose further emphasises how much the man has romanticized her. Indeed, metaphor likens Gatsby to an artist who decks his image ‘with every bright feather that drifted his way’, with every possible virtue. The alliteration of ‘f’ in the narration emphasises how permanent this idealised image has become, Nick asserting that ‘no amount of fire or freshness can challenge it’. Indeed, he expects too much, wanting ‘nothing less of Daisy than that she should go to Tom and say: ‘I never loved you.’ Tragically such expectations lead Daisy to change her mind, breaking down under his own pressure in Chapter Seven, exclaiming to Gatsby that ‘you want too much!’ But in Chapter Eight, Nick goes a step further, suggesting that Daisy, the object of his ‘dream’ is unworthy of his power of dreaming. Fitzgerald’s use of time and sequence, the narrative switching to Gatsby’s ‘story of his youth’, emphasises the influence of Daisy’s wealth and privilege on Gatsby. The narrator states that ‘her porch was bright with the bought luxury of star-shine’, and that she ‘vanished into her rich house, into her rich, full life’, the repetition of ‘rich’ reflecting the aura of affluence which Gatsby is drawn to. Indeed, it becomes clear that Gatsby idolises both wealth and Daisy, the title character almost quantifying her, the fact that many men already loved Daisy increasing ‘her value in his eyes’. Indeed, his attraction to Daisy may be caused in part because of what she represents, the exclusive upper class which he aspires to be a part of. Daisy thus appears almost shallow and fickle, and because she is the focus of Gatsby’s life, his dream is simply reduced to a motivation for material gain. After Gatsby’s death, Nick writes that Gatsby must have realized â€Å"what a grotesque thing a rose is.†The rose has been a conventional symbol of beauty. Nick suggests that roses aren’t inherently beautiful, and that people only view them that way because they choose to do so. Daisy is â€Å"grotesque†in the same way: Gatsby has invested her with beauty and meaning by making her the object of his dream. Had Gatsby not imbued her with such value, Daisy would be simply an idle, bored, rich young woman with no particular moral strength or loyalty. But this capacity to ‘dream’, this ceaseless effort to recreate the past, reflects the vitality and optimism which Nick most respects about Gatsby. The active narrator first notices this quality when they meet in Chapter Three. Fitzgerald’s use of first person, self-aware and narration reveals Gatsby’s rare ability to make anyone he smiles at feel as though he has chosen that person out of ‘the whole external world’; it reflects that person’s most optimistic conception of him or herself. His smile ‘believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself’ and ‘assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey.’ And because of such ability to hope, when Gatsby waves goodbye to his guests, Nick emphasises the contrast between the immorality of his work and the virtue of his motivation. While ‘they guessed at his corruption’, ‘he had stood on those st eps, concealing his incorruptible dream’. Nick alludes to such undying hope in the last lines of the novel, the narrator strolling along Gatbsy’s lawn one final time, just as the title character had done when Nick first sees him in Chapter One. And as he sprawls out on the beach behind Gatsby’s house, he muses that Gatsby had failed to realize that even before his reunion with Daisy, his dream had already ended, ‘that it was already behind him’, and that his goals had become hollow and empty. But though this dream had ‘eluded us then’, Nick envisions that people everywhere are motivated by similar dreams and that ‘tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms further’. In this way, though there is an ambiguity over whether men such as Gatsby will ever reach their ‘dream’ – Fitzgerald leaving the phrase, ‘and one fine morning -’, open-ended – Nick Carraway recognises that the importance lies not in reaching the ‘dreamâ€℠¢ but in refusing to lose heart. In the same way, Gatsby’s own audacity and nobility of spirit to dream of creating a radically different future for himself, to dream of a life with Daisy, never let up. This is why one can agree with Nick’s viewpoint to a great extent. Even though his dream ends in failure – because his methods are criminal, because he can never gain acceptance into the American aristocracy, and because his new identity is largely a theatrical act – his deep-rooted ambition, his loyalty to Daisy and, uniting the two together, the strength of his capacity to dream, are what set him above the members of West Egg and East Egg. Gatsby is a visionary. This is why he is â€Å"worth the whole damn bunch put together†.
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