Charlies Regret of Past Behaviors in Fitzgeralds Babylon Revisited :: Babylon Revisited Essays

Charlie's Regret of Past Behaviors in Fitzgerald's Babylon Revisited Charlie Wale's character seemed to get the raw end of the deal throughout the entire story. He was trying to redeem himself as a good father and a good citizen. He had many regrets of his past actions and behavior, especially those regarding his deceased wife, Helen. The events that occured during his visit to Paris, however, were detrimental to his intentions. His desire to have his daughter, Honoria, return with him to Prague, was sincere, and as a reader, I could almost feel his pain and disappointment at the disastorous end results. Marion's decision to not allow Honoria to return was merely based on Charlie's "past". Once his old acquaintances, Duncan Schaffer and Lorranine Quarrles, surfaced at the home of Linclon and Marion Peters, there was almost no chance of redemption. Marion could only see the "old" Charlie, and not the man who longed to care and provide for his daughter. Marion also seemed to hold a grudge against Charlie for the death of her sister, Helen. Charlie had begun many preparations to bring Honoria home with him. The hiring of a governess and the lease on a new apartment are just two examples of his attempt at trying to convince Marion and Licoln of his seriousness of resuming the responsibilty of being a parent. To be a father to Honoria, would also entail being a mother to her in some ways, due to the fact that Helen's death had been a part of the past Charlie was trying so hard to recover from.. Charlie's personal strentgh is shown by only having one drink a day, compared to the noted many drinks, and possibly other paraphernalia he may have encountered in his colorful past. At this point in his life, he

Old Age Home Essay

Abstract The elderly population is rising globally and similar trends are being observed not only in Asia but also in Pakistan. A developing country facing several challenges in the form of political instability, lack of economic growth, low savings of the elderly, weak pension system, makes life challenging for the elderly. Pakistan’s demographic trends show that between 1990 till 2010, the population aged 60+ years increased by 75.1 %. It is projected that the life expectancy will increase to 72 years by 2023. WHO report (1998) projected that 5.6 % of Pakistan’s population was over 60 years of age, with a probability of doubling to 11 % by the year 2025. Pakistan is a socially cohesive society and elders are valued and respected. It is normally considered to be the responsibility of the eldest son to take care of their parents. In spite of a socially cohesive society in Pakistan, in some segments, norms have been changing and recently, one can notice a clear turn down of the e xtended family system. Children leave their parents and there is no one who could look after their needs. Consequently, the abandoned parents land up in old homes. With meager resources and a poor understanding of aging; Pakistan faces many challenges in caring as well as provision of facilities for its elderly population. This present report highlights the comparison between the quality of facilities that are provided to older people in home and private or government institutes. Future possibilities for improvement of facilities for the good health and wellbeing of our elderly are also discussed. Read more:  Problems Faced by Old Age People Introduction of gerontology Gerontology is an introduction to the field of human aging. Gerontology is multidisciplinary in nature as all aspects of human aging are viewed in this subject. This means that the study of aging combines information from several separate areas of study. Biology, sociology, and psychology are the â€Å"core† or basic areas, along with content from many other areas of study such as public policy, humanities, and economics. Gerontology includes the study of physical, mental, and social changes in older people as they age, the investigation of the changes in society resulting from our aging population as well as the application of this knowledge to policies and programs for the assurance of better quality of life for older people in the  community, the state and the nation. Taking care of our elders is an Islamic obligation and also an integral cultural norm in Pakistan. Despite being a socially cohesive society; the decline of extended family systems is evident. This has affec ted the respected status of the elderly enjoyed in their later years. As nuclear family system is increasing in urban areas, they are unable to take charge of the elderly due to many socio-economic and cultural constraints. So they have begun to seek assistance from formal institutions engaged in elderly care. Importance of gerontology: Gerontology is very important as people working in aging report great satisfaction in addressing the challenges of those who are growing older, helping to maintain the quality of their lives, and enjoying the wit, wisdom, and creativity of the older persons with whom they come in contact. Even as a student you can make a difference; your community can benefit from volunteer work you do with older persons. Later, as a professional in the field, you can continue to serve the community as a volunteer, for example, by speaking about various aspects of aging to civic and community groups or teaching in pre-retirement programs. Working in the field of aging provides an opportunity to influence positively the agencies and organizations serving older persons and the legislation and policies that affect their lives. Studying aging also gives you a perspective on your own aging and insight into the aging of your family members. Review of literature The older population has been growing at an unprecedented rate. In 1980, just prior to the convening of the First World Assembly on Ageing, there were 378 million people in the world aged 60 years or above. In followed figure has risen to 759 million over the past three decades and is projected to jump to 2 billion by 2050. Actual and projected global population aged 60 years or over, 1980, 2010 and 2050 Our Religion stresses a lot on the rights of elderly people and we are asked to serve elderly relatives of our parents if parents are not alive. We make  fun of the West that they send their parents to â€Å"Old Houses† and do not bother to inquire about them. Now if we analyze that what is happening to elderly people especially in the poverty struck rural areas it gives us following haunting facts : – Elderly people die miserably due to lack of food and medical attention. They develop psychotic disorders due to depression and dejection. They develop certain diseases by not eating healthy food which is not providing the necessary multi-vitamins needed to survive in the old age. Employee’s Old age benefits pension money is used by their family members. They have very limited social life. Lack of religious and basic education deprived them from doing anything useful to pass the time. Children of even well settled families tend to ignore grandparents who just need to share love with them and focus. Sheltered housing provides social contact and a secure environment that appeal to many older people. Sheltered housing has proven to be popular for a minority of people as alternatives to residential care or high intensity old homes. They provide flexible care and 2 accommodation suited to those with mobility problems. Satisfaction levels are high, particularly in relation to access to care and the provision of meals. Housing expectations changed, issues with this form of provision started to emerge in the 1980s. The difficulties identified in the provision of sheltered housing are now well known. A review of the factors leading to difficulties with letting sheltered accommodation (in England and Wales, 1994-5) found that 92% of local authorities and 79% of large housing ass ociations had encountered some difficulty in letting their stock. Furthermore, 8% of local authorities and 14% of housing associations found over half of their traditional sheltered housing units difficult to let (Tinker et al, 1995). Now be somewhat dated, though the issues encountered have been reiterated since then. Following are the old age homes difficulties or issues have been identified: Size of properties was often identified as particularly problematic, with bedsits being the least popular, and single bedroom flats being increasingly seen as too small for older people, particularly couples and those being encouraged to down-size from larger social rented housing. Access difficulties, particularly where properties are on upper floor without lift access; wheelchair access can also be problematic. Guidance on the development of  new sheltered housing in Scotland in 1980 specified that sheltered units should be on ground or first floor, unless a lift was provided (Scottish Development Department, 1980), and this was not revised with more accessible specifications until Housing for Varying Needs was introduced in 1998 (Pickles, 1998). The neighborhoods in which sheltered schemes are located have changed significantly since their initial development, with the closing of local shops and services, and reductions in public transport. They may also now be in areas where other housing and social issues make them unpopular for all tenants, not just older people. The introduction of the European working time directive and other developments in human resources mean that the role of the scheme manager has had to change. This also reflects the changing cli ent group that is living in sheltered housing. The increasing age of residents in sheltered schemes meant that the level of support available from the scheme manager was insufficient, and prior to the developments in widespread community cares and support services, this was a significant issue. Some areas may have an over-provision of sheltered housing units. Richard and Gill Walker, looks into the social context of housing for aged ones. It covers the demographic material, facts about social framework of old homes for older people. This includes a review of demographic information, evidence relating to the needs, perspectives and choices of the aged people with respect to this housing, along the problems of segregation and marginalization and their impact on their livings. Philip O. Sijuwade did his study about Self-Image of Aged which looks into the different approaches , stereotypes, and age factors which regulates suitable behaviors for the older ones(social image). It states that, old ones have developed their self-image too, which depicts the way they think of themselves and the way ‘others’ think of them. This is based on primary research states that stereotypes have been built about the aged people of the society and they are not treated in the way they deserve to be. Residential satisfaction of the older adults in ag e-segregated facilities is described by Sandra G. Reynolds and Julia O. Beamish which looks into the housing satisfaction of old home people with liberated living services. Twenty one residents contributed as a focus group and results showed that these old people liked  safe and secure atmosphere and value good design, friendly neighborhood, privacy and residential characteristics. G. Clare Wenger and Richard Davis, indicates that main factors of social isolation includes marital status, social interaction, health conditions, behavior of ‘others’, type of networking and loss of mobility. They conclude nothing could be generalized about it but trends in society have old ones feeling marginalized on this earth. It can vary on according to personal background and situation. In some cases, older ones are forced to live in a residentially segregated area whereas in other cases, aged people are themselves willing to have such segregation. The reasons for which older ones preferred institutional living arrangement are for preservation of dignity and respect, peace of mind, avoidance of familial conflict along with the provision by fulfillment of all basic needs, unwillingness to depend on family members on economic and social basis. One of the famous sociologists Livson conducted a research ,‘The Transition into Retirement and Old Age’ in 1962 and found that survival of family, economic condition and health condition along with other factors plays important role as individuals adopts to grow old. She is of the view that changes in economic and health status are not only the issues which require our attention. Most important issue is the adjustment of that particular person into the current situation according to the increasing age. references Project funded by a generous grant from Andrus Foundation  © Copyright 2001 — Careers in Aging http://www.careersinaging.com/careersinaging/what.html http://www.academia.edu/1854670/Aging_and_Elderly_in_Pakistan http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/ageing/documents/publications/current-status-older-persons.pdf http://www.careersinaging.com/careersinaging/why.html http://memberfiles.freewebs.com/84/90/65819084/documents/Aging%20in%20Pakistan.pdf

Examples of Irony and Symbolism in The Cask of Amontillado

Writers often use symbolism in the story to give a more vivid description rather than just saying, pictures are a perfect example. Symbolism is the art of using any object, place, name or anything that represents something rather than its original meaning. A good example can be a roller coaster because it indicates that there will be ups in downs in life. Another example is the color Red this color can symbolize blood, passion or danger. Irony is another technique used in the story to give it a better understanding. Irony is said in a sarcasm way, twisting the actual meaning. It is the opposite of what is intended. Saying the same thing but with a different idea/meaning behind it. For example it’s very funny when people go to McDonalds and†¦show more content†¦Happiness was not a part of this life anymore all that was gone. All because of the humiliation Fortunato did to Montresor. Now he was dark and evil from the inside. The only thing that made him happy now was getting the perfect revenge towards the man that humiliated him so much that he ruined his life. Now the only way he could be happy again was making Fortunato go through the same this he went through. So Montresor had to be kill Fortunato in order for him to be satisfied. The clown costume Fortunato worn the day of the carnival is a symbol Garcia6 of humiliation for Fortunato in (voices. Yahoo) â€Å"He had a tight-fitting part striped dress and his head was surmounted by the conical cap and bells.† His costume can be describe as a dumb outfit. Which is also compare to him because he was a total fool to be wearing that and a fool to follow Montresor into this palazzo. Following him into the catacombs was like following death. Going to see the Amontillado was the main thing that causes Fortunato not to realize what was about to happen to him. According with the website (bright hub education) â€Å"likely drunk on wine, it is possible that his venturing into catacombs has little to do with his desire to serve Montresor.† The Amontillado was a way to distract Fortunato. Catacombs are explained in the article of (study mode) â€Å"In the tale itShow MoreRelatedHow The Cask of Amontillado Uses Symbolism and Irony1291 Words   |  6 Pages Often, writers use symbolism to describe an object with more clarity t o the reader. It provides additional layers of meaning to a text. Symbolism is not only important in literature but is also important in everyday life. For instance, symbolism is found in colors, objects, and on flowers. For example a rose can represent love and romance. Symbolism is used in literature, movies, and even on street signs. Such as the colors in the street light: red means stop, yellow means slow down, and the greenRead MoreGothic Literature : The Dark Side Of Romanticism1518 Words   |  7 PagesThe theme of Gothic stories is either mysterious, horror, or even death. Nathaniel Hawthorne and Edgar Allan Poe are authors that demonstrate Gothic literature. Some of their work include, â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† written by Edgar Allan Poe and â€Å"The Birthmark† by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The Cask of Amontillado tells how the narrator Montresor seeks revenge on his acquaintance, Fortunato. Montresor to desperate measures and did not catch. However, in †Å"The Birthmark†, Aylmer, a scientist has become obsessedRead MoreThe Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe836 Words   |  3 Pages Symbolism is the use of objects to represent ideas or qualities in the story. In the story many things are used as symbols such as the actual cask of amontillado, the trowel, the jester costume and the setting in which there is two in the story. Another literary technique used significantly in the story is irony. Irony is the expression of ones meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite. In the short story â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado,† Montresor a very troubled manRead MoreThe Theme of Revenge in â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† Essay1629 Words   |  7 PagesEdgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† is a frightening and entertaining short story about the severe consequences that result from persistent mockery and an unforgiving heart. Poe’s excellent use of Gothicism within the story sets the perfect tone for a dark and sinister plot of murder to unfold. â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† simply overflows with various themes and other literary elements that result from Poe’s Gothic style of writing. Of these various themes, one that tends to dominant the storyRead MoreThe Cask Of Amontillado By Edgar Allan Poe707 Words   |  3 Pagesstory of The Cask of Amontillado, Edgar Allan Poe writes in first person point of view from the perspective of Montresor who seeks revenge against Fortunato. Montresor be gan to develop the perfect plan for revenge. During the carnival season, Montresor meets with Fortunato and decides to implement his plan carefully through irony. Poe s story describes the murderer s mind which has lived as a memory of Fortunato s death for fifty years. Poe uses different types of irony and symbolism in the conversationsRead MoreThe Casket Of Amontillado . Edgar Allan Poe’S â€Å"The Cask1680 Words   |  7 PagesThe Casket of Amontillado Edgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† is a short story illustrating how pride leads to the downfall of two men. At the story’s heart is the tale of Montresor, the protagonist, getting revenge on a former friend, Fortunato. Poe’s characterization of Montresor shows a sinister, proud man, obsessed not only with his revenge but also not getting punished himself. â€Å"It must be a perfect revenge, one in which Fortunato will know fully what is happening to him and in whichRead MoreSymbolism and Irony in The Cask of Amontillado1291 Words   |  6 PagesSymbolism is something that represents more than what it really is. It is often by authors in their writing to give it more emphasis. For example: In life there will always be peaks and valleys meaning in life there will be ups and downs but we should enjoy the peaks and fight through the valleys. Objects can also be a form of symbolism such as The Bible, it represents more than just a book. It rep resents Life, Church, Religion, and the life of Jesus Christ and what he stood for. Irony is likeRead MoreRole of Realism in Edagar Allan Poe ´s The Tell Tale Heart and The Cask of Amortillado1014 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† written by Edgar Allan Poe are dark short stories relevant to murder, revenge, and mystery. Poe writes both stories in a Gothic style in order to deal with ideas of realism. One may ask were the murders and punishments justifiable in either short story? One may also ask did Poe accurately depict realism in each story? Realism, defined as a technique in literature that accurately represents everyday life, is questioned in Poe’s works: â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart† and â€Å"The Cask ofRead MoreThe Cask of Amontillado663 Words   |  3 PagesThe irony is detected by the use of his exaggeration. The symbolism by the objects it uses and how they are used. â€Å"’The cask of Amontillado’ is a creepy short story written by Edgar Allan Poe. The story is rife with examples of symbolism and irony. â€Å" â€Å"Poe tells a tale of revenge and humiliation, the way the story symbolizes Poe’s work that has a mind-boggling ending. â€Å" The story is full of examples of irony and symbolism to try to answer questions thrown at the reader in the short story. The narratorRead MoreThe Presence of Symbolism Throughout The Black Cat and â€Å"The Cask Of Amontillado† by Edgar Allan Poe718 Words   |  3 Pagesof symbolism. Symbolism is the practice of representing things by symbols, or of investing things with a symbolic meaning or character. In Poe’s works such as â€Å"The Black Cat† and â€Å"The Cask Of Amontillado† Edgar illustrates the mental state of his characters through the use of symbolism. In the story â€Å"The Black Cat† the narrator’s psychological state is portrayed through the signs or symbols of the white fur, the cat, its eye, and the wall. In the second story, â€Å"The Cask Of Amontillado† irony of fate