Sunday, December 22, 2019

Beauty in The Picture of Dorian Gray Essay - 1224 Words

In Oscar Wildes novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, beauty is depicted as the driving force in the lives of the three main characters, Dorian, Basil and Lord Henry. Dorian, the main character, believes in seizing the day. Dorian is described as an addict, having mad hungers that grew more ravenous as he fed them. Basil, the artist, admires all that is beautiful in life. Lord Henry, accredited ones physical appearance to the ability of achieving accomplishments in life. Lord Henrys moral position in Dorian Gray is akin to that of the devil; he is the initial serpent in the Garden, and continues to coax Dorian to evil throughout the novel. Beauty ordains the fate of Dorian, Basil, and Lord Henry. The novel embodies the relationship of†¦show more content†¦Dorians features retain their youth and purity, while his deepening moral corruption caused by his narcissistic worship of the beautiful is made visible only in the portrait. Dorian sets his conscience aside and lives his life according to a single goal of acheiving pleasure. His painted image, however, asserts itself at his conscience and hounds him with the knowledge of his crimes. He aspired to have had a good life rather than one filled with artificial meaning. The image of Dorian reflects his conscience and his true self, and serves as a mirror of his soul. The moral beauty of Dorian lies within the portrait of himself. The portrait imitated his life. He finally realized that beauty cannot help him escape his evil actions. He deeply lamented his wish that the portrait bore the burden of his age and sin. He Buckner 3 finally realized there is no way to undo the effects of age or of sin on a soul. Dorian tries to destroy the picture, so he will no longer be reminded of the evil that beauty has caused him. But, as he destroys the picture, he kills himself, and the picture is cleansed and beautiful again. Dorian gives nothing less than his soul for the mistakes that he made. The price that one must pay for their discrestions is exceedingly high. Basils life is also driven by beauty. He is infatuated with Dorians beauty in the beginning. He appreciated Dorians beauty but did not wish to possess it for himself. BasilShow MoreRelatedBeauty in The Picture of Dorian Gray 809 Words   |  4 Pagesnovel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, beauty is depicted as the driving force in the lives of the three main characters, Dorian, Basil and Lord Henry. Dorian, the main character, believes in seizing the day. Basil, the artist, admires all that is beautiful in life. Lord Henry, accredited ones physical appearance to the ability of achieving accomplishments in life. Beauty ordains the fate of Dorian, Basil, and Lord Henry. The novel embodies the relationship of beauty and morality. Beauty is not basedRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray Literary Analysis1029 Words   |  5 PagesThe Picture of Dorian Gray: What’s the meaning? The famous and well-renowned saying â€Å"do not judge a book by its cover† is something we have all heard ever since we were little children. In the novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, this advice is crucial. This idiom expresses that someone should not judge something based on its appearance. A book, or in the case of this novel, a person, might actually be very different from the image portrayed on its cover or their outside appearance. This could notRead MoreKiller Instincts in Oscar Wildes Novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray778 Words   |  3 Pagesothers,† (Wilde 46). Dorian Gray deceives himself by not knowing he is in love, and ends by showing everyone his most horrible traits. In his novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde talks about Dorian Gray, an innocent, beautiful young man who does not understand the power of his own beauty. Basil Hallward, an artist, discovers Dorian and paints a magnificent portrait of him. When one of Basil’s friends Lord Henry advises Dorian of his divine beauty and youth, Dorian wishes for the portraitRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray Essay1460 Words   |  6 PagesAs seems to be the theme of Oscar Wilde’s book, The picture of Dorian Gray, art an beauty are both the same, yet they are different. But how can this be? Well, beauty and art are intertwined the moment art is used to capture a sliver of pure beauty, in order to make that moment last forever. According to Lord Henry, â€Å" Yes, Mr. Gray, the gods have been good to you. But what the goods give can easily be taken away. You only have a few years in which to live really, perfectly, and fully† (Wilde Pg.Read MoreAnalysis Of The Picture Of Dorian Gray1301 Words   |  6 PagesIrony in The Picture of Dorian Gray More often than not, it is hard to face the consciousness of the inevitable. Everyone feels the distress of realizing that time is fleeting and they will soon grow old and wrinkly, no longer their youthful self. The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, illustrates this human condition specifically through the main character Dorian Gray. Mr. Gray captures the artistic imagination of artist Basil Howard, who constantly paints portraits of Dorian. Basil usuallyRead More Inner and outer beauty in Dorian Gray Essay1495 Words   |  6 Pages The term ‘beauty’ may have very relative significance. Something can be beautiful for us, but ugly for other people. The external beauty of a person is often the first thing that we pay attention to. This is the result of the association of beauty with good and ugliness with evil. Through the outer appearance we make a general opinion about a given person. Such a way of thinking may be very misleading. In order to get to know the perso n we need to look to the inside – into the soul. This is theRead MoreInner and Outer Beauty in Dorian Gray1512 Words   |  7 PagesThe term ‘beauty may have very relative significance. Something can be beautiful for us, but ugly for other people. The external beauty of a person is often the first thing that we pay attention to. This is the result of the association of beauty with good and ugliness with evil. Through the outer appearance we make a general opinion about a given person. Such a way of thinking may be very misleading. In order to get to know the person we need to look to the inside Ââ€" into the soul. This is the placeRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray971 Words   |  4 Pagesnineteenth century novel, the Picture of Dorian Gray demonstrates the importance of the aesthetic movement in Victorian England. This suggests youth and physical attractiveness is emphasized and are valuable additions to society. Therefore, what matters to Dorian, is not the internal goodness an individual possesses but the appearance they present. Consequently, Dorian is able to forget the violent acts he commits as long as he appears beautiful on the outside. Since external beauty is valued, Wilde arguesRead MoreThe Picture Of Dorian Gray Analysis1623 Words   |  7 Pages Oscar Wilde’s novel The Picture of Dorian Gray shows us the triumph of a corrupting influence over a virtuous one. In the novel, Lord Henry’s influence over Dorian overpowers Basil’s and leads to Dorian’s eventual demise. In analyzing Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, the theme of good versus evil reflects off of Lord Henry’s and Basil’s interactions with Dorian and Dorian’s internal struggles, thus exemplifying that a person with weak virtues will falter in the face of hedonistic temptationRead MoreProposal for A Narcissistic study of The Picture of Dorian Grey919 Words   |  4 Pagesï » ¿ A Narcissistic study of The Picture of Dorian Grey General Overview Oscar Wilde’s The picture of Dorian Grey’s novel is about a young man named Dorian Gray, the subject of a painting by artist Basil Hallward. Basil is impressed by Dorians beauty and believes his beauty should not be wasted and it is responsible for a new mode in his art. Dorian meets Lord Henry Wotton, a friend of Basils, and becomes enslaved by Lord Henrys world view. He shows him a new hedonism, and suggests the only things

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Oxford dictionary meaning of the word “research” Free Essays

The proposed article fall within the area of subject of research, as the context and purpose of article is to bring about a rationale thinking in application areas of auditing vs.accounting.Understanding definition of term â€Å"research†. We will write a custom essay sample on Oxford dictionary meaning of the word â€Å"research† or any similar topic only for you Order Now â€Å"Identification of key area, to effort on, find facts, draw/derive/produce positive or negative results and apply whichever is applicable, and complete findings.† This article is written without any prejudicial interest and true replica of events that occur in business accounting, viewed at a macroscopic level.   Practicing of accounting demands an ethical code of conduct, as auditors are the intermediary officials for companies as well stakeholders, who safeguard ipso facto corporate sector. Type of Research First reading ensured enough time to read each page, to perceive the subject and contents to form a basis for finding and comprehend the facts. Second reading is attempted to learn and recognize, what made the article to give such a serious effect, and grounds of falsification. Final critique reading and view   on art, style, etiquette and magnitude of the article and draw inferences, as a whole. Research Questions: Does the article represent a view of research to lay facts, scholarly view to consider and instigate appropriate measures of corrections in ethnic field of auditing or an elite journalistic article ? Is the usage of Jargon is in compliance and accurate with the subject of article? What is the satisfaction of Author(s) who have ventured efforts in perceiving the facts? The author(s) have endeavored on article in prediction or to pre-empt the startling scams or scandals in corporate sector? Where does the error take rest? With Auditors/Company officials/Rating How to cite Oxford dictionary meaning of the word â€Å"research†, Papers

Thursday, December 5, 2019

Horlicks free essay sample

Born: 1873, in the US History: Two Chicago, US-based brothers, James and William Horlick, first patented the malt-based milk drink as baby food. the US While the exact date of its India launch is not known, some of its commercials date back to the early 1900s. Currently owned by GSK Consumer Healthcare Ltd in India Status: Horlicks holds 58% of the Rs1,900 crore health food drinks market, and is currently a Rs1,000 crore brand in India Brand story: From a drink that was supposed to promote a good night’s sleep to one that can help children grow taller, stronger and sharper, Horlicks has come a long way.Simultaneously, its brand image, too, has changed—from a fuddyduddy, boring health drink recommended by doctors to something that is nourishing, and enjoyable. In 1992, as its market share grew, the brand extended itself to a new product—Horlicks Biscuits. In 1994, it started singing the â€Å"micronutrient† story, fol lowed by its â€Å"smart nutrientsâ €  campaign in 1998. The brand underwent a massive transforma tion in 2003, when almost everything about it changed—from the taste and flavour to the packaging. It also changed its positioning: it was nourishing, yes, but also tasty.Another turning point came in 2005, when the brand released a clinical study which claimed that children who consumed Horlicks were â€Å"taller, stronger, and sharper† than those who did not. For the first time, the brand tried to communicate with children, not just their mothers. Beginning a major advertising and marketing campaign along that theme, new variants such as Horlicks Lite were launched, followed by the revamp of Junior Horlicks in 2006. The latest variant is Women’s Horlicks, launched this year.We are constantly striving to ensure that the brand is relevant to consumers,† says Shubhajit Sen, vice-president, marketing, GSK Consumer Healthcare Ltd. Product innovation, he maintains, is likely to remain a priority Source- http://drypen. in/case-studies/brand-horlicks-case-study-and-strategies. html Market- Horlicks Quite often, a jar of Horlicks occupies a visible position in Indian kitchens. Successive generations of Indians over the past half-century have consumed it – stirred in a glass of hot milk or water – and become totally confirmed believers in Horlicks’s virtues of good health and nutrition.This is only to be expected for a brand that consumers have been using since the 1930s. Today, Horlicks is one of the best known brands in the health food category. It owes its success to a strong brand heritage, commitment to quality, focused communication, a strong distribution network and a deep understanding of consumer needs. Health food drinks provide nourishment for the family, particularly growing children and serve as energy providers for adults. The market for malted milk powders in India is huge as the product is widely used as a nutrition and energy supplement by children and adults.The size of the market is estimated at Rs. 10,170 million. Horlicks occupies the leading position with over 50% shares of the market (Source: ACNielsen ORG-MARG 2002). Despite Operation Flood, the durability of the Horlicks brand has remained and has, in fact, been strengthened over the years. This is because the brand has been able to reinvent itself – and the market – and create positioning strategies that are in sync with consumer needs. It has created new segments in the market place by introducing sub- brands aimed at specific consumers.Mothers Horlicks is targeted specifically at pregnant and lactating mothers, while Junior Horlicks has been especially formulated for little children. This strategy has expanded the market and brought new groups into the Horlicks fold. Most brands in the category, today, offer a variety of flavors to cater to the changing tastes of consumers. Product innovations, too, are the norm as the brand that offers the most value to consumers is likely to win. Horlicks’ enviable brand reputation and continuous product improvement has helped it stay ahead of its competitors. AchievementsHorlicks has a significant presence in over fifteen countries. Today Horlicks is the best known brand in the health foods category in India. The brand enjoys the trust of generations of Indian mothers and this relationship has been nurtured by the brand by fortifying the product from time to time. In 1998, Horlicks was fortified with Smart Nutrients – a unique combination of vitamins and minerals – intended to imbibe growing children with mental agility and physical fitness. Junior Horlicks was relaunched with extra nutrients to build the immunity of little children.Today, Junior Horlicks contributes 11% to Horlicks’ total sales turnover and has been one of the fastest growing product extensions to the Horlicks brand. But it isnt just product development that Horlicks has concentrated upon. It has also created new attractive packaging options including jars, refill packs and sachets. Horlicks was the first brand in India to introduce a refill pack option and also the first to shrink-wrap bottles. In a way, there’s a Horlicks pack for every occasion and mood. History Some malted barley, pinches of wheat flour with a dash of evaporated milk.Thats Horlicks recipe for success. James Horlicks, after whom the brand is named, was a chemist who worked for a company which produced dried infant food. He became ambitious after inventing some recipes of his own. So along with his brother William, they found J and W Horlicks of Chicago. In the 1870s, babies often fell sick as fresh milk soured quickly without refrigeration. It was this recipe, invented by James and William that Saved the day. From then on, their business grew rapidly. It was in 1906 that James returned to Britain and opened the Horlicks Malted Milk Company.Later, their sons sold the brand to SmithKline Beecham, now known as Glaxo SmithKline, (GSK) for ? 20 million. Up until the 1960s Horlicks was positioned as an adult restorative drink that gave extra energy, especially during convalescence. The 1970s saw its position shift to ‘The Great Nourisher’. It was in this phase that the brand saliency shot up. Suchitra, the protagonist, epitomised the modern housewife of those days. She was the gatekeeper of her familys health. The medical credentials were reinforced through the depiction of a doctor as the rational voice.The next decade saw Horlicks face an immense external challenge. Thanks to Operation Flood, there was availability of milk and the raison detre for buying the brand became weaker. Horlicks fought back. In 1984, Horlicks aimed at growth by growing the consumer base. By 1994, it had created ‘Ideal Horlicks’ – and improved product formulation that also brought back the taste people reminisced about. In 2002, Horlicks was relaunched on the immunity platform. Product Put a couple of tablespoons full into a mug. Add warm water or milk and you’re ready to enjoy a drink that’s tasty and nourishing.Add ice cubes, cold milk or water to reconstituted Horlicks and it turns into a delicious, thirst quenching drink on a hot afternoon. That is why Horlicks is considered to be ‘the great nourisher’ for the entire family. The medical credentials and heritage of the brand have reinforced the image of the brand for years. Junior Horlicks, a specialist brand for little children. Mother’s Horlicks, a special nourisher for pregnant and breast feeding mothers, and Horlicks Biscuits are the other forms in which the brand is available.A selection of flavours – including chocolate, vanilla and honey – allow consumers to enjoy the nourishing goodness of Horlicks in a variety of delicious ways Recent Developments The new century has seen the Horlicks brand successfully battle the quirks of a fickle market. In fact, during 2001/02, Horlicks overcame grave challenges. The process invigorated and reinforced all the traditional virtues of the Horlicks brand and in the process created the basis on which Horlicks confidently looks to its future. The initial years of the new millennium were turbulent for Horlicks. While the brand stayed ahead of its rivals and retained market leadership, it showed a decline in absolute sales growth. Analysis revealed that the brand was suffering on three counts: usage by medium and heavy users had declined; the brand was not being perceived as ‘modern and contemporary’ and there was a loss in brand relevance among children. A complete brand re-launch was initiated in July 2003, and this involved improving the product, introducing new flavours, new packaging and a new communication campaign. For the first time in the brand’s history, it was decided to target children directly.Consumer research revealed that children perceived the brand to be old fashioned – something that their grandparents drank. This increased their resistance to the brand. Moreover, mothers too, were reluctant to force their children since they wanted to be seen as friends rather than as figures of authority. So, ‘better taste’ was the only way to make Horlicks the preferred choice among children. The focus was on ‘pleasurable nourishment’ and this paved the way for the introduction of New variants – including vanilla and honey. The regular variant, too, was improved to offer the best possible taste.And finally, packaging was made smarter, more vibrant and attractive. The new, improved Horlicks was advertised through the ‘Pran chonchol’ campaign, which established the Horlicks experience as integral to the lives of spirited live-wire children. The brand’s personality changed dramatically – the serious, do-good, earnest personality was replaced by a spirited, engaging, fun- loving character. What remains unchanged, though, is the commitment of the company to inventing new reasons and ways for consumers to enjoy the nourishing goodness of Horlicks. Promotion Horlicks released its first Indian press ad campaign way back in the 1930s, positioning itself as the family nourisher. Over the years, Horlicks’ communication has always connected with its consumers. In the 1970s, Horlicks was among the first brands that gave expression to the urban housewife’s concerns by creating the character of Suchitra, a modern housewife concerned with her family’s health. During the 1980s, Horlicks created one of the most popular TV campaigns with its ‘Why do I drink Horlicks? ’, commercial.It was one of the early instances of slice-of-life advertising that showcased the wide acceptance of the brand among people from different walks of life. The brand has been endorsed by celebrities, including leading lights of the Indian film industry such as Amitabh Bachchan who featured in a series of radio ads in the 1960s and 1970s; and Moon Moon Sen and her daughters Riya and Raima in the 1980s. Former world chess champion Vishwanathan Anand has also endorsed the brand. and 1970s; and Moon Moon Sen and her daughters Riya and Raima in the 1980s.Former world chess champion Vishwanathan Anand has also endorsed the brand. Apart from brand building campaigns, the brand is also well-supported by consumer promotions. Below-the-line activities, merchandi-sing, sampling programmes in schools, shopping malls and at sponsored events have helped Horlicks achieve top-of- mind recall scores of more than 70 and 45 respectively in the key markets of Calcutta and Chennai (Source: IMRB ATP, Q3 2003). Horlicks ranks amongst the most cherished and valued brands in India today (Source: Brand Equity 2003). Brand ValuesHorlicks has always been a brand that stands for good health and nourishment through a wholesome, natural product. A commitment towards product quality and reinforcement of essential nutrients has won over the trust of generations of mothers. The brand gives them the reassurance that they seek in caring for their family. Family bonding is at the heart of Horlicks’ brand values. This, in turn reinforces Horlicks’ image as a caring and trusted brand. Horlicks has always been a brand that stands for good health and nourishment through a wholesome ,Things you didnt know about horlicks †¢ Horlicks was first invented to substitute milk as baby food. †¢ In India, 2 billion cups of Horlicks are drunk every year. †¢ In some global markets, Horlicks is positioned as a sleep enhancing night time drink. †¢ Where there is a problem taking solid food, Horlicks can provide the nutrition that would otherwise be missing from the diet. †¢ People on special diet, including liquid diet or any diet devised for gastric disorders, can benefit from the nutritional convenience of Horlicks

Thursday, November 28, 2019

British Economic Problems Essays - Recessions, Convertibles

British Economic Problems British Economic Problems From my research, Britain appears to be in a harsh time economically but it seems like they are headed for a rise in the near future. Although earnings growth is down and there is a prediction for recession in Britain, the inflation rate is low and the Nissan Motor Company has just unveiled a major project to be carried out in London, which will bring in large sums of money definitely boosting the economy. There is still much uncertainty about Britain's economy in the future, with evidence to support either a recession or a booming economy ahead. In July of 2000, there was a fall in the rate of earnings growth for the third month in a row from 5.1 percent to 4.6 percent lowering the expected interest rates. Earnings growth rates are now approximately 4.5 percent indicating low inflation. In May, the earnings growth rate dropped from 4.6 percent to an unbelievable 4 percent, the lowest recorded rate since September of 1997. A recession has been predicted for the British in the near future by a very unusual method. This method is neither scientifically proven nor accurate by any means but over the years it has proven to be successful in results. The technique is called the R-count. Using a computer database, it counts how many times the word recession is used in the major newspapers in the country being studied. As the number of stories in the newspapers using the word recession began to accumulate, Britain entered a recession (1990). Again it happened in 1998 when production fell and the Gross Domestic Product went down. This was not only working in Britain, it was used in the United States (U.S.) also and accurately predicted the beginning of the recession in 1981 and 1990. It did have one false alarm in the U.S in the early 1990's but regardless, that is still a very good track record. Was this just coincidence or are we onto something here? The word recession in the media today seems to be an economi c indicator. What is alarming for the British is that it has been on the rise for the past 20 years, while preceding years have signaled a recession. Let us hope that this was merely a coincidence otherwise, Britain is in for a rough time. On the other hand, there is some hope for the British economic future. The Nissan Motor Company has announced their new investment in the largest automotive assembly line in Britain. On Thursday, January 26, 2001 the Nissan president, Carlos Ghosn announced that his company would produce its new Micra model at its Sunderland car plant in England. ?I am very glad today to announce that Nissan has decided to invest 235 million pounds to assemble the new Micra in our manufacturing plant in Sunderland,? said Mr. Ghosn standing next to Prime Minister Tony Blair in London. Nissan expects to begin production on the new model in December of next year with an increase in production of approximately 44%. Now, the work force at the Sunderland plant will have to increase from 4,500 to 5,000 rather than the loss of 1,250 if the project had gone elsewhere. This project will take from 5-10 expected years to complete, which will be very good for the economy, bringing in money itself while also keepi ng the money in the country by increasing the number of employees. Another plus for the British economy is Nissan's decision to buy 65% of the means of production from British suppliers rather than the intended 20%?25%. With this new big business booming and the small businesses supplying it, it is obvious that these are the key ingredients in a truly healthy economic society. I understand that Britain has had its ups and downs economically, just like every other country in the world. It is hard to try and predict what will happen in the future but with the given information, one would tend to believe that Britain is on the uprising. The strongest argument for this idea is Nissan's intrusion into the mix of things. This decision by Nissan to produce a new car in one of England's existing plants is very good news for

Monday, November 25, 2019

Marketing Mix and Price

Marketing Mix and Price Introduction Over the recent past, marketing has evolved from the traditionally perceived business support function to a significant functional area of an organization. This is a result of several factors such as increased competition, consumer needs volatility, and the ever changing consumer environment. This has in effect compelled companies to adopt product mix and other marketing tools that promote products among the consumers. This paper discusses marketing mix and price as tools for enhancing product adoption among the consumers.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Marketing Mix and Price as Tools for Enhancing Product Adoption Among the Consumers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Marketing mix Marketing mix is a marketing tool that is used to determine the brand offering. There are four main components of marketing mix. These are Product, Place, Price, and Place (Cant 69). One important component of the marketing m ix is product. It is the main item that defines the relationship between the customer and the producer. There are two common attributes that define a product. These are product mix and product line. The producer must always be aware of these attributes in order to ensure that the product enjoys consumption of the users and also promotes the brand presence in the market. Product mix Product mix is the aspect of offering more than one product. It is also referred to as product portfolio. Several companies have embraced product mix and this has helped them increase sales while gaining on economies of scale. A company is able to have several products and with the aid of its flagship product, the other products generate consumption from the consumers of the other products from the same company. An example of a company that has product mix is Procter Gamble (PG). It produces Duracell batteries, Baby diapers, Bathing soaps, and Washing detergent. Product line This refers to a group of rel ated products which are manufactured by one company. A company that has a product line usually manufactures different related products so as to promote its sales. Consumers are more likely to consume related products from a company that produces brands which are more familiar to them (Lamb, Joseph and Carl 109). This therefore, can be used to increase the sales for a company since people will tend to consume products from one company. An example of product line is the production of Ariel, a powder soap from Procter Gamble, and Safeguard, a bathing soap from the same company. This is used to market the other product that the company produces since the loyal buyers of Ariel will also buy safeguard. This is a good example of a company taking advantage of its brand name to increase its sales in the market through adding a product in its product line.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Lear n More Price Price is referred as the consideration that the customers pay in order to acquire and use goods or services of a company. Price is usually a determinant of the product affordability. This is because demand is defined as the willingness and ability to buy a product (Cant 112). A consumer may be willing to buy a certain product but he/she may not be able to buy that particular product. Therefore, price plays an important role in determining product adoptability among the consumers. In effect, manufacturers need practice pricing policies which are non-exploitative on the consumers without which the demand will go down. Conclusion The concept of product and price as components of marketing mix need to be given a serious consideration by organizations. This will go a long way in ensuring that the companys product enjoys consumption by the target consumers and continue to boost the sales of the company. Cant, M C. Marketing Management. Cape Town, South Africa: Juta, 2006. Print. Lamb, Charles W, Joseph F. Hair, and Carl D. McDaniel. Essentials of Marketing. Mason, Ohio: South-Western Cengage Learning, 2012. Print.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Role of information system in customer relationship management Coursework

Role of information system in customer relationship management - Coursework Example How to ensure strong customer service and satisfaction Customer satisfaction and service are vital components in the survival and progress of any business. it is for this reason that organizations invests heavily in ensuring that customer service reaches a level that will satisfy and woe the customer towards coming for more. Businesses need to maintain customers in a manner that will make them appreciate the brand, products or services being offered by the businesses. This paper looks at ways in which a strong customer service and satisfaction can be maintained in a business. First, know the needs of every customer in the market so as to avoid forced creation of demand where it is none existent. Secondly, it is important to perform tests with a view of building an understanding of the desires of consumers within the market segment. This helps build up innovative ideas useful in identification and solving possible problems that may arise due to customer expectation about the product o r service the business offers. Thirdly, being true to your customers can help the business a greatly. All deliveries of goods to customers should always be done at the right time. Where delivery may not be possible on the agreed schedule, proper communication with the customer is vital. Fourthly, plan well and perform periodic training of the team you work with in order to uphold business reputation and trust. It is also important to train a team that will enhance flexibility and effective communication skills. Fifthly, always appreciate your customers. It is worth sending thank you messages to your loyal customers. This strategy will likely yield positive results that help in positive growth of the business. Moreover, always create loyalty programs among your customers. This can be done through unique gift offers or special promotions targeting long time customers in the business. Always approach issues related to your customers in a mature manner as though you are dealing with a l ong time friend. This can be done by being sincere to them on issues that may arise in the day to day running of the business. It is important to promise what you can achieve other than giving unrealistic expectations. This is because empty promises tend to anger and frustrate customers making them shun any future transaction with the business. It is for this reason that a successful business need to set correct expectations since it helps in retention of customers. Develop a customer philosophy that will direct the way employees interact with clients. The philosophy developed should be able promote respect and constant appreciation of customers. This is a key component in customer satisfaction and retention. Lastly, develop a quick response time whenever there is a blame game in business transactions. Effective communication and admittance of a mistake can really yield marvelous results in the long term. This should be followed with a communication on what you plan to avert similar mistakes in future. Customer Service System Customer service refers to various business practices aimed at providing services to clients during and after a business transaction. These services are aimed at building customer satisfaction and retention. Customer service system refers to blending of procedures, people and technology with a view of serving customer needs in a way that will promote profitability and achievement of business objectives. It is important to note that implementation of an effective client service system may be quite difficult when all the stake holders does not understand its importance. In addition, all the stake holders should be willing to buy into using the system otherwise its contribution to the business may be futile. There are numerous reasons why organizations need

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 9

Economics - Essay Example Therefore, wages are considered a good indicator in employing people and expanding the business. Labor regulations like the ‘minimum wage’ affects the price signals in the market by disturbing the supply and demand. The differences between the supply and demand for labor could harm many people with the use of a minimum wage. This is true in the sense that increasing the minimum wage could result to an increase in the prices of goods. High prices of goods will eventually decrease the demand for the specific goods. Thus, people would tend to look for an alternative sources of similar item in order to maximize the value of their money. The SRAS curve would shift to the left; it means a decrease in the number of goods sold as prices of goods increases. (See Figure 1 – Aggregate Supply and Demand when Minimum Wage is Increased on page 4) Increasing the minimum wage could affect the U.S. international competitiveness and labor freedom. People who support an increase in the minimum wage insist that it would help the poor and less-skilled workers. However, the government intervention on this matter has an adverse effect in the market place. The increase in the minimum wage could affect the supply and demand curve leading to a less efficient in the allocation of labor. Thus, resulting to an increase in unemployment rate. (See Figure II – Supply and Demand of Labor When an Increase in Minimum Wage is Implemented on page 4) Each time the equilibrium real wage is not equal to the market-clearing real wage, the real wage becomes too high. In this case, some businesses would be forced not to hire additional manpower. For companies that are experiencing a bad business performance combined with a bad economic situation, some of these firms may choose to implement mass lay-offs or simply declare bankruptcy or closure. It simply proves that increasing the real wage too high would result to an involuntary unemployment. Determining

Monday, November 18, 2019

Human Resource Planning Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Human Resource Planning - Article Example Human Resource Planning Human Resource Departments should be particularly cautious in protecting their employees. Other media companies such as New York Times back the statement that, insurance companies use confusing and technical terms in establishing contracts with the Human Resource Departments. The Human Resource Management and Services, treasury, and labor departments lead in these grievances. This is because insurance companies fail in their responsibility thus calling for concern throughout a company. The article also discusses issues regarding exploitation of employees by employers. In most organizations, the management forces the employees to work extra hours to meet the prevailing demand, but in hand get nothing. There is an emphasis on the standard basis of accounting in relation to extra time, and other over-time allowances. From the article, it is evident that Human Resource Planning is increasing its value daily. Awareness should be created to educate employees on their rights. A notification is crucial as it will help in guiding employees in different fields such as insurance, among others. This is because planning is a key determiner of growth and development in an organization. It is easy to distiguish the aspects of HRP; it enhances the importance of planning in Human Resource Management.

Friday, November 15, 2019

How And When Children Acquire Language English Language Essay

How And When Children Acquire Language English Language Essay Introduction: The question to consider is how children acquire language and at which stage they could improve their speaking and listening skills. In particular, syntax and vocabulary are the main concern of the language acquisition domain. The task of psycholinguistics is to discover the relationship between language and the human mind (Field: 2003). Many theories, therefore, have emerged in exploring this relationship, which seek to explain the way in which children understand and acquire language. Over the last five decades these theories have offered various ideas and interpretations of the relationship. For example, in Behaviourist theory, which is associated to skinners research into language, language acquisition is considered a collection of habits. It is thought that children learn how to form correct utterances through positive reinforcement from the people around them (Patten and Benati: 2010). Cognitive theory, which is associated with Piaget, is considered a way of discovering how ind ividuals create and use language in their social context (ibid, p71). Interaction theory, related to Bruner, holds that language comes from the interaction between children and their environment (ibid, p99). There are, however, two theories in the relevant acquisition literature which oppose one another and provoke countless debates: Chomskys theory and Tomasellos theory. In Chomskys theory, children biologically possess an innate ability to acquire their language. This ability is mainly specific to language. Whereas, in Tomasellos theory language is acquired through language use by means of social skills, such as, joint attention and general learning mechanisms (Behrene: 2009). This paper seeks to explore these two theories in order to contrast them. The first and second parts of the paper present an overview of the main ideas in the two theories. The third part focuses on their different aspects, including the: poverty of stimulus argument, linguistic creativity, modularity and language specific domain versus domain- general learning mechanisms. The fourth and final part, discusses some weak points in the two theories. Overview of Chomskys (Innatist) theory: In language acquisition domain, Chomskys theory is called an innatist theory, because he proposed that children biologically possess suitable abstract knowledge for the task of first language learning .This abstract knowledge shapes the linguistic system which they learn. In fact, through this innate knowledge children can discover the rules of their language system and reduce hypothesis formation and guessing. (Patten and Benati: 2010). Chomskys main argument is that all human beings are born with an innate knowledge which is particularly designed for language acquisition (ibid). This argument is indeed, opposed to the one that language is a result of the interaction between human beings and the environment or item-usage learning (e.g. Skinner, 1957; Tomasello, 2003). Furthermore, The term Language Acquisition Device (LAD) was coined by Chomsky in this context to refer to such innate knowledge or the little black box (Patten and Benati: 2010).The (LAD) comprises the universal princi ples of all languages, by which children can be kept on track and not confused by all the complex rules of particular languages. When this (LAD) is activated, the child can discover the structure of the language s/he is to learn by matching the innate knowledge of basic grammatical relationships to the structures of the special language in the environment (Lightbown and Spada: 1999). However, since the 1960s, instead of (LAD) universal grammar hypothesis (UG) was introduced by Chomsky. It was given much concern by him instead of, the (LAD), because, in Chomskys view this hypothesis means that there is an innate knowledge source which governs the shape of natural language (Patten and Benati: 2010). It should be noted that the first appearance of Chomskys theory was in 1959 in his critical review of Skinners book Verbal Behavior in 1957. Chomsky in his review pointed out many shortcomings in applying Skinners theories to language acquisition. For example, Skinners experiment using rat boxes is not relevant to language because the behaviour of rats is unlike human behaviour. As a result, Skinner has a mistaken understanding of the nature of language. Furthermore, the environment considered solely as learning mechanism can not be the basis of language acquisition and therefore, mans ability to acquire language must be innate (Aitchison, 2007). Overview of Tomasellos theory (usage-based theory): The account of language acquisition provided by Tomasello comes under the umbrella of usage-based theories. Recently, a new view of language and human linguistic competence has emerged (Tomasello: 2003). This view comes from a set of theories usually called cognitive-functional linguistics, and also called usage -based linguistics in order to emphasize their main ideas that language structure is produced or appears from language use (e.g. Langacker, 1987a ; Croft, 1991; Tomasello, 1995, 2003). It is note worthy that this view stands in direct opposition to Chomskys innatist theory. Because, Tomasello in his theory is mainly concerned with the question of how children get from here to there from the constructions of infant level speech to the abstract constructions of adult thought through one set of processes of acquisition (Tomasello: 2003:3). In Tomasellos theory it is impossible that humans can have been born with a specific collection of communicative behaviours only for language . This collection more probably learned by children during their years from the linguistic conventions used around them. They must possess flexibility in order to learn both the different words and the suitable expressions of each language and the different types of abstract constructional pattern which historically these languages have grammaticized (ibid). Tomasello emphasizes, however, four points in his theory: First, the innate skills which people have are not specific to language but can be used as means for language learning. Second, theory of mind is central to symbol use, because humans can understand symbols while nonhuman do not possess this ability, because they use signal system. Thirdly, word-learning skills include: joint attention, which means the ability that children possess in their first year old whereby they can understand other people as intentional agents and interact socially through an object to which both pay attention; children note this attention to both it and themselves; Intention reading, means the ability to understand the social world around them through imitating adult acts; the construction-learning skills encompassing: analogy and pattern-finding. The latter means the distributional analysis based on statistical information in the primary linguistic data and the ability to form perceptual and conceptual figures of similar objects or situations (Tomasello: 2003). The differences between the two theories: It is noteworthy that the accounts provided by Chomsky and Tomasello comprise many opposed aspects, of which the main ones are as follows: 3.1. Poverty of stimulus argument: The basic argument of the nativist theory is based on Chomskys assumption of the poverty of stimulus (1965).This assumption means that the data provided by the input to which people exposed are not rich enough to account for language acquisition (Patten and Benati:2010). In other words, it means that the language to which children are exposed as their input or the primary linguistic data is solely a set of individual utterances yielding some abstract principles of grammar which seem ambiguous for language acquisition .The best solution he can provide is the universal grammar hypothesis (UG), which means that all humans are born with an innate universal language containing a number of abstract principles which can lead the acquisition process (Tomasello: 2003). Despite the fame of the poverty of stimulus argument in the language acquisition domain and childrens language research, it has certain, if we contrast it with the account provided by Tomasellos usage-based theory. We find that the research into the developmental psychology of language acquisition has provided many arguments which support the richness of stimulus in usage-based theories (e.g Clark2003, Tomasello 2003). In fact, the significance of social pragmatic interaction in language acquisition is evidenced by extensive findings in this domain (Tomasello: 2003). To put it more simple, Tomasello in his theory emphasizes that: There is no poverty of the stimulus when a structured inventory of construction is the adult endpoint (Tomasello: 2003:7). He notes that the hypothesis of an innate universal grammar has two major problems, namely, first, the linking problem and the problem of continuity. The first problem is how children can connect their abstract universal grammar with the particular language which they learn. The second problem deals with the developmental changes in childrens language, for example, how people can understand childrens language during their developmental change if we accept that universal grammar is always the same. It, therefore, seems useful to provide a description or explanation of child language acquisition which ignores any hypothesis of universal grammar which creates these problems (Tomasello: 2003). Accordingly, it is important to note that Chomsky and Tomasello are opposed on the argument of the poverty of stimulus. Tomasellos view, however, seems stronger, because nativists provide no support for their claims. As Pullum and Scholz (2002:47) point out, the poverty of stimulus argument still a waits even a single good supporting example. Moreover, Akhtar (2004) seems to agree with this criticism, in that she indicates that this argument was the basis for a number of nativist claims, yet indeed lack supporting empirical evidences. 3.2. Language is creative: Another difference between Chomsky and Tomasello is the formers belief that language is creative. From Chomsky perspective, creativity in language has three- fold support. First, people possess the ability to understand and produce strange sentences which they have never before heard or spoken (Aitchison: 2007). Second, the creative use of language is free from the external and internal affects of the stimulus control (Chomsky: 1968). Third, the way in which people use the language considered to be coherent and appropriate to the situation (Hegde: 1980). By the way of contrast, we can see that Tomasello does not ignore creativity in language, but he has little concern for it. According to him, it results from the attempt of humans to create categories in their own language (Tomasello: 1995). Chomsky asserts that the creativity in language is something which can not be acquired solely through environmental learning methods (Aitchison: 2007). Tomasello contrastingly asserts that, during a period of time, children obtain the communicative conventions are obtained step by step from the people around them. For example, their social cognitive skills and developing cognition are utilised to internalise these conventions. Childrens basic abilities are used to learn their first words. They create concepts so as to understand adult speech and then to produce suitable new words in their communicative contexts (Tomasello: 1995). It is thought, however, from the contrast between the two views that Chomskys view about the creativity of language has some limitations. For one thing, nativists assert that every utterance we hear and say is completely novel and accepted. This assertion seems to be wrong. The reason is that to accept it we would need to assume that each word or sentence has a separate existence. Moreover, we have to assume that our past language experience is sufficient to provide a clear understanding of the present utterances. But, if these assumptions are accepted, the result will be that human communicative behaviour has no continuity (Hegde: 1980). The second point, on the creativity of language free from the control of stimulus, seems to be weak, because, as discussed above in section (3.1) no evidence has been offered in its support. Furthermore, with regard to the third point, in Chomskys view the way that people use language is coherent and appropriate to the situation. It could be argued that this point is somewhat vague, since Chomsky admits that he can give no clear meaning to the terms appropriateness and coherent in this context (ibid). However, he stresses that the creative aspect of language is common. Humans constantly create novel utterances and many who lack this ability might be brain damaged (Aitchison: 2007). This view would be more popular if it took into account the effect of environmental learning methods in producing our utterances, since the one question that needs to be asked here is, how humans can produce them without communication with their input. 3.3. Modularity: In the areas of linguistics and philosophy of mind, the idea of modularity has raised a great deal of concern (Garfield: 1987). There seems to be another difference between Chomsky and Tomasello, about the modularity of mind in language acquisition. To illustrate, the definition of modularity according to Crystal (1998: 246) is: A term used in recent discussion of language in two slightly different ways. On the one hand, it is proposed, especially in J. A. Fodors The Modularity of Mind, that the mind is modular in the sense that it consists of a number of different systems ( modules) each has its own distinctive properties , such as the language system and the vision system. On the other hand, it is suggested, especially in government-binding theory that language system itself is modular in the sense that it consists of a number of different subsystems which interact in specific ways. The concept of modularity is that the brain is divided into separate parts, an idea to which Chomsky gives much attention (1965).He identifies the language area as a separate faculty of mind, in that language is autonomous in the mind and a separate module in the brain (Aitchison: 2007). Furthermore, he goes on to argue that the human mind is, like other complex biological systems, modular in its internal formation (Chomsky: 1984). The main idea of modularity, according to him, is that the modularity of syntax means that the structures of syntax are not the same as the structures exist in other cognitive (Chomsky: 1968 cited in Tomasello: 1995). By the way of contrast, we can see that Tomasello does not agree that language is a separated module in the brain, because, by his reasoning, in order to have a perfect grammatical theory the syntactic abilities should be combined into cognition and not like an autonomous sub-system (Parisse: 2005). To sum up, Chomskys view is a modular view in which there are different sub-parts in the mind each one possessing special characteristics. Tomasello, however, take the non-modular view that there are general principles employed in all cognitive domains which control the mind (Archibald: 1993). However, to return to the account of modularity provided by Chomsky, one of the difficulties with this account is the claim that syntactic structures are not like the structures which exist in other cognitive domains. This seems to be wrong, because it gives the idea that the syntax module is innate, yet if we give the example of the game of chess, we find that it possesses a number of unique structures, such as, the images of a knight fork or queen-a side attack- in human cognition. But there is no need to presume that this uniqueness chess- playing form needs an innate mental form (Bates et al. 1991). Moreover, the structures of cognitive thought which adults utilise in order to play the game of chess come through a process in which people employ general cognitive processes to face their problems in their social interaction which they may have had in learning to play a constructed game (Tomasello:1995). Hence, it is thought that Chomskys view seems to be weak because it is difficult to specify which part of the brain is responsible for language. As Bates asserts, it still far from knowing perfectly which parts of the brain are responsible for language (Bates in press, cited in, Tomasello 1995). 3.4. Language- specific versus domain- general learning mechanisms: Another point of difference between Chomsky and Tomasello concerns the way in which children acquire language. is another different point between Chomsky and Tomasello. The difference lies in the contention over whether language should be a specific domain or a domain general learning mechanism. A specific domain in this context means a domain specific to language, whilst, domain general refers to learning mechanisms which are not specific to language, yet applied generally. From Chomskys perspective, since, human beings are able to learn language and animals are not, this ability is considered genetically inherited (Aitchison: 2007). Nativist theory, in fact, hypothesises that children are born with universal grammar (UG), a set of innate principles and parameters. This possession helps children to learn language without making errors as they learn (Conroy and Thornton: 2005). Therefore, this assumes that children possess a pre- existing domain- specific innate form which specifies the form of their language knowledge. Moreover, in language learning in particular, syntax children obtain ability without exposure to adequate stimulus (Chomsky; 1986, Pinker; 1994). However, Tomasello believes that it is false to suppose that children have genetically endowed grammar (Tomasello: 2003). To his mind, children in order to learn their language employ item-based learning integrated with some general learning mechanisms that are used in other cognitive domains , such as, analogy (Conroy and Thornton: 2005). Moreover, in Tomasellos view the properties of language structure come from joint attention figures and not from innate language specific mechanisms (Segalowitz: 2001). As a result, Tomasello significantly did not ignore language universals; however, to him they not universals of form or a special type of syntax or linguistic symbols but are instead, the universals of human communication and cognition. For example, human beings use language in similar social contexts in order to provide solutions in language for communicative tasks, such as, describing specific entities (Tomasello: 2003). Consequently, Chomskys view that language has a specific-do main is weak , because languages differ in their grammatical relations, of subject and object, for example, Acehnese, an Indonesian language, and Tagalog, a Philippine language, do not possess these grammatical relations ( Tomasello:1995). 4. Some weakness in both theories: Tomasello, then, introduced a new model of usage-based theories in language acquisition in which he paid attention to a main set of skills, namely, intention reading, joint attention and pattern-finding skills. These skills are general skills utilised also in other types of cognition and not in language alone. Furthermore, although they are innate, they are not like the universal grammar (UG) invented by Chomsky, because they are not specific to language (Tomasello, 2003). But Tomasellos account seems to entail some limitations. It is thought that he does not provide a clear explanation for the fact that these skills are sufficient for language acquisition. As Wilson (2006:138) points out: Tomasellos central claim is that joint attention and intention reading are foundational and prerequisite for language acquisition. It does seems reasonable to assume that they are necessary for language development, but the big question is, are they sufficient? Can they entirely account for all of the complexities of language à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ from parsing speech stream to the emergence of complex grammatical structures? Hollich et al. (2000), on the other hand, seems to agree with this criticism, because they assert that Tomasellos theory, which is one of the social constructivist theories, does not possess a complete or sufficient explanation for the fact that children can produce increasingly inserted sentences in their utterances. Moreover, the problem with these theories is that they still offer no clarification of childrens ability to discover the relationships between language units. In contrast to this, Chomskys theory is considered one of the famous theories in the language acquisition domain. It has indeed, affected the entire literature language acquisition, because of the controversy surrounding it. Yet this theory too attracts a number of criticisms. In this section, we focus on four critical points made against this theory. A major criticism concerns the universal grammar hypothesis (UG) which has been discussed above. Although (UG) aroused widespread interest in language acquisition debates, it is thought, that it is based solely on abstract thinking and lacks empirical support. As Kadarisman (2007a) points out, the concept of universal grammar must be without meaning unless it has empirical evidence. But, without adequate explanations, it seems to be more a slogan than a scientific effort. Moreover, due to its abstraction, (UG) neglects the local importance of language used in the cultural context (Becker: 1995). Second, Chomskys theory is criticised for relying on logical arguments only. As Palmer (2000) indicates, Chomskys nativist claims remain are still the same as they have been fir the past two decades. Because his claims are based on logical arguments instead of, direct evidences or reasonable interpretations, his argum ents have no external support. Tomasello seems, agree with Palmer in this criticism because he states that Chomsky in his account relies strongly on logical arguments, not using the scientific study of human behaviour and cognition (Tomasello: 1995). Third, it is criticised because it can not be tested. This creates some contention around Chomskys account. The reason is that his theory has no clear cut procedures which could be examined. To put it more simple, Chomsky considered theory-construction in linguistics as similar to theory- construction in the physical sciences, particular, physics. Yet, there is a deference between these two domains, because, the mathematical model in physics depends on physical phenomena and is testable, whereas, Chomskys model relies on subjective judgments made by individual native speakers who may disagree with each other. Consequently, it can not be tested (Moor and Carling: 1987). Fourth, Chomskys theory is criticised in terms of its ideas, if considered as philosophical ideas, for instance the adoption of such innatist ideas as, the universal grammar (UG) hypothesis which is based on the hypothesis of an innate language faculty. Subsequently, many linguists (e.g. Hegde, 1980; Moore and Claring, 1987) have strongly criticised these ideas. For example, Hegde asserts that the concept of a nativist theory is merely part of an ancient philosophical idea. Furthermore, Moore and carling believe that Chomskian linguistics are linked by these ideas to philosophy, in particular, epistemology, the part of philosophy concerned with knowledge theories. Conclusion: The domain of language acquisition possesses a varied collection of theories. Their main concern is to discover the way in which people, in particular children, can acquire language. The accounts given by Chomsky and Tomasello can be critically contrasted, as seen above. They obviously stand on two opposite sides. In Chomskys theory, children are born with an innate ability by which they acquire their language, whereas, in Tomasellos theory, language is acquired through language use and not by biologically innate ability. Furthermore, the innate abilities which children have are not specific to language. However, the main aspects which have been contrasted in this paper comprised: first, the poverty of stimulus argument, in which, according to Chomsky, the input is not sufficient to acquire language, while, from Tomasellos perspective there is no poverty of stimulus; second, Language to Chomsky is creative, because it is free from the control of stimulus while in Tomasellos view lang uage results from the attempt of humans to create categories in language; third, modularity, Chomskys assertion that the mind is separated into sub-parts, whereas Tomasello believes, that general principles control the mind; and fourth, Language- specific versus domain- general learning mechanisms; either there are universals specific to language, as in (UG) hypothesis of Chomsky or, as Tomasello states universals is not specific to language but apply to all human communication and cognition. Hence, we can conclude that Chomskys account strongly relies on the hypothesis of universal grammar (UG) to support his view on the poverty of stimulus argument, creativity of language, modularity and the language- specific domain. It should be noted that the universal grammar hypothesis (UG) brought a great deal of debate among scholars of language acquisition, even though one of its limitations is that it has no empirical evidence to support it. Tomasellos account, conversely, depends on general skills in language acquisition, such as, joint attention, intention reading and pattern finding skills. Yet he did not provide adequate explanation to convince us that these are sufficient for language acquisition.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Ted Hughes’s Pike versus Sylvia Plath’s Mirror Essay -- Ted Hughes Syl

Hughes’s â€Å"Pike,† Plath’s â€Å"Mirror† Abstract: Sylvia Plath’s 1961 poem â€Å"Mirror† can be read as a rejoinder to Ted Hughes’s 1958 poem â€Å"Pike.† Plath shrinks her husband’s mythic grandeur to reveal a psychodrama of the self as a vanishing faà §ade. Sylvia Plath’s 1961 poem "Mirror" builds up to the appearance of a terrible fish, an internalized counterpart of the watching consciousness under the dark pond of Ted Hughes's 1958 poem "Pike." Whereas Hughes's poem evokes the spirit of the place and the genetic residue of England's violent past, a version perhaps of Clarence's dream of the sea of fish-eaten victims of the Wars of the Roses in Shakespeare's history play Richard III, and the sunless sea from where ancestral voices prophecy war in Coleridge’s â€Å"†Kubla Khan,† Plath's "Mirror" narrates a lifetime of interactions with a nameless, faceless woman and imagines aging as disfigurement. In Hughes’s poem, pike are both weapons (cf. a â€Å"pike† as an instrument of warfare) and vital presences in the physical world that provide inspiration for his poetic vocation. In Plath’s poem, a fish resides in the mirror, a monstrous figuration of coming to recognize oneself as an aging, vanishing faà §ade. The poet speaks through the voice of her mirror. Exploring timeless, primitive, ruthless fish, â€Å"Pike† chronicles a series of vignettes that, observes Matthew Fisher, begin in plain diction, giving an objective, scientific description: â€Å"Pike, three inches long, perfect/ Pike in all parts, green tigering the gold.† The word â€Å"tigering† in the second line, pace Fisher, perhaps evokes William Blake’s â€Å"Tiger, tiger, burning bright/In the forest of the night,† an image of the destructive, devouring element of Creation. The green and go... ...Hughes’s Pike,† Explicator 47:4 (Summer 1989): 58-59. Freud, Sigmund. (1919) â€Å"The ‘Uncanny’,† trans. James Strachey, Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud, ed. James Strachey (London: Hogarth, 1955), XVII: 218-252. Hughes, Ted. Collected Poems, ed. Paul Keegan (London: Faber, 2004). Hughes, Ted. Letter to Leonard and Esther Baskin, January 1959 (London: British Library manuscripts). Hughes, Ted, ed. Sylvia Plath, Collected Poems (New York: HarperPerennial 1982). Keegan, Paul, ed., Ted Hughes, Collected Poems (London: Faber, 2004). Plath, Sylvia. Collected Poems, ed. Ted Hughes (New York: 1982). La Belle, Jenijoy. Herself Beheld: The Literature of the Looking Glass (Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 1988). Porter, David, â€Å"Beasts/Shamans/Baskin: The Contemporary Aesthetics of Ted Hughes,† Boston Review 22 (Fall 1974): 13-25.