Hamlet Thesis

Hamlet Thesis Statement In the play Hamlet, William Shakespeare writes of a tragedy in which Hamlet and Laertes both face the same problem-a murdered father. The paths of revenge that each of them take, parallel their characters and personalities throughout the play. While Hamlet broods over the murder of his father for the majority of the play, Laertes takes immediate action, and upon hearing about the death of his father, he rushes in and is ready to kill Claudius-whom he suspects has killed his father. When they first hear the news of their father’s death, Hamlet and Laertes react in very different ways.When Hamlet hears that Claudius was the one who killed his father, his immediate reaction was grief. This is no surprise, due to the fact that he was still mourning the death of his father, although everyone else had already gotten over it. In fact, most people thought that he was overdoing it ,and Claudius went so far as to tell him that he should get over it, and â€Å"Ye t so far hath discretion fought with nature that we with wisest sorrow think on him together with remembrance of ourselves† (act one, scene two).The way that Hamlet plans his revenge, is more intelligent than the way Laertes plans his. While Hamlet is a more intellectual person, as we can see from his quick wit and sarcasm, Laertes is more impulsive and â€Å"acts, then thinks† as we can see when he says â€Å"I am justly killed with mine own treachery† (act five, scene two). In such a situation, had the play not ended the way it did, Hamlet may have been more successful in avenging his father’s murder because of his responsibility and intellect.Despite the fact that Hamlet procrastinates, Hamlet was smarter in the way he planned his revenge because his procrastination was due to his grief and foresight. Although Laertes trait of acting quickly can be admired and gets the job done, in a situation that involves death and vengeance, strategy and discretion a re a must. From the beginning of the play, we can see that Hamlet is an intellectual thinker. Although he believes the ghost and pronounces that â€Å"it is an honest ghost† (act one, scene five) , he still takes precautions after he promises the ghost that he will take revenge.However, Hamlet is still a little wary of the ghost and therefor decides to feign madness so that he would be able to find out if Claudius was the true killer of his father. Even while feigning madness Hamlet thinks about the whole process of the madness. Unlike Laertes, Hamlet is careful not to disclose what the ghost has told him and only imparts to Horatio and Marcellus what happened when they swear on his sword that they would never speak of what they saw from that point on.One of the reasons why Hamlet is such a procrastinator is because he becomes caught up in the details and potential consequences. In the soliloquy of â€Å"to be or not to be† (act three, scene two) Hamlet loses the will to live and ponders whether it is worth it to exist. Due to the fact that Hamlet suffered the death of his father at a young age as well as well as many other hardships, Hamlet contemplates whether â€Å"Tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against the sea of troubles and by opposing, end them?To die: to sleep; no more;† (act three, scene two). However, after that, Hamlet mentions the potential consequences of the unknown after death. Due to the death of his father and his mother’s hasty remarriage which Hamlet does not approve of, Hamlet is well aware of the consequences of his actions and therefore is hesitant to act rashly. When planning his revenge, Hamlet does not jump to conclusions. When the players come, Hamlet asks them to perform â€Å"The Mousetrap†-a play of a murder similar to that of Hamlet's father's.Hamlet hopes that â€Å"The plays the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the kingâ €  (act two, scene two). Indeed, the plan worked and when Claudius stormed out of the theatre, all of Hamlets suspicions were confirmed. As Hamlet so eloquently noted, â€Å"What, frightened with false fire? †, (act three, scene two) Hamlet was now positive that Claudius was at fault for murdering his father. Another thing that slows Hamlet down in his plan of revenge is that he is a religious catholic, and he is very concerned about mortality.Hamlet is scared that if he kills Claudius, his father’s murderer, his soul will be damned. Hamlet is also scared that if he kills Claudius while he is praying, Claudius will go to heaven and that would not please Hamlet because he said that â€Å"A villain kills my father, and, for that, I, his sole son, do this same villain send to heaven† (act three, scene three). Contrary to Hamlet, Laertes followed the passion in his heart. As soon as he returned from France and heard the news, he invaded the palace, and then asked the questions- the complete opposite of Hamlet.When Laertes hears that Hamlet killed his father, he expresses intense anger and openly announces his plan to take revenge. In his rage, Laertes yells that â€Å"Let what comes come, only I’ll be revenged most thoroughly for my father† (act four, scene five) and makes up his mind to take revenge no matter how or where. When Hamlet heard that his father had been murdered by Claudius, he had already been grieving his father’s death for a while and although the pain was still fresh, his father’s death was old news to him.Therefore, Hamlet was still able to think rationally and plan his revenge in a more intelligent manner. However, when Laertes heard about his father’s murder, he was so grief stricken that he could not think rationally and just followed what his heart told him- to kill Hamlet. Unlike Hamlet, Laertes has no problem â€Å"to cut his throat i' th' church! †(Act four, scene seven). To Laertes, mortality doesn't mean alot, as he so bluntly puts it- â€Å"Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit! I dare damnation. † (Act four, scene five) Due to his impulsive nature, Laertes tends to be unstable at times.However, Claudius, who suspects Hamlets unusual behavior, joins forces with Laertes to devise a plan to kill Hamlet. This proves a weakness of Laertes'- being unable to carry out his plans singlehandedly. Together, they scheme to kill Hamlet and even come up with a backup plan in case the first one does not go as planned. In the end, his plan of using a poisoned sword backfires when Hamlet ends up using the poisoned sword on him. When weighing in the pros and cons of each of their personalities and flaws, Hamlet took the smarter route in avenging his father’s murder.Although both Hamlet and Laertes die at the end of the play, the reason Hamlet kills himself is because he had nothing to live for. Ophelia, the love of his life was dead, his father was dead and Claudius had died. Since he had nothing to live for, he chose the option of death. On the other hand, Laertes had no choice in the matter because his plan backfired on him and killed him, as we see at the end. Hamlets patience paid off because he, Hamlet achieved his goal, and Laertes, the son of a fishmonger, did not.

Marketing and Nike Essay

We can evaluate Nike’s core marketing strategy as related them to the relevant marketing theories. First of them is distribution theory. Nike distributes its products on different level basis. The high quality products are given to a certain distributers while the low price to be sold at highly discounted price at the retail stores such as Wal-Mart. Nike has also become the leader in the e-commerce by being the first to the market whit its e-commerce website. This program represents the first time a company has offered mass footwear through the internet and provides competitive advantages to Nike. One of the other theories is advertising and promotion. Nike makes contracts with some celebrity athletes which can take attention to their products such as Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Maria Sharapova, Ronaldo. This has created a relatively high level of Nike’s awareness. Nike also employed a large amounts of advertisements. Their aggressive advertising campaigns, celebrity endorsements and quality products all enhance their brand and image. The other theory is price. The price is not effective on their strategy because Nike’s target market is based on the consumers who care more about the utility and quality of the product . This strategy focuses on the consumers who like Nike and pushes the products value to a higher level. Once the consumer develop the product intimacy, they come to associate their person with the products and will pay whatever price quoted on the products. Nike use vertical integration price strategy and they also engaged in various channel level operations both to control costs and influence the price function. And when we look at the market segmentation theory, we see that most of the consumer of Nike’s products is mainly athletic. Their segmentation market typically targets athletes, both women and men, from the age 15 to 35. Nike focuses on creating premium consumer experiences on product innovation, brand leadership and elevated retail presence. But Nike focuses on athlete more than any group of individuals. This strategy is especially successful because of its ability to reach a large number of athletes. Although Nike’s core marketing strategy had brings lot of positive directions to the company, but it will bring negative directions to Nike too. The mainly negative theory is the cost theory. Nike had incurred high costs in producing and promoting its products. The costs are increasing among handling inventory, designing, advertising and production. The inflation had also rised the costs. So Nike has increased the products prices and reduces its marketing budget. Nike had also employed child labor in Cambodia to reduce its production and labor costs. This affected brand image negatively and many people stop buying products from Nike. Furthermore, Nike has been using child labor in the production of its soccer balls in Pakistan. One of the Nike’s core marketing strategies is depend on a group of athletes to promote its products. Nike prefers to have high profile athletes as its endorsers, like Runner Steve Prefontaine, Michael Jordan and LeBron James. The action and attitude of Nike’s chosen spokespersons could bring the impacts on its promotional strategies. For instance, it will attract the athlete’s idolater to purchase the products if Nike using a popular athlete as endorser. On the other hand, if the athlete were caught in drug addicted or any immoral attitude, it will affect the customers not to buy Nike’s products, thus will affect Nike’s sales, revenue and profit. There is intense competition faced by Nike. Their competitors are Adidas, Reebok, Puma, and so forth, whilst competition is tighter with the coming of Adidas. More, the product line is slightly different between Nike and Adidas. Nike faces many risks when they use their core marketing strategies to achieve their goals and these risks can come from both internally and externally environment. The risks will have a negative influence about Nike’s future development. Nike needs to stay on the top of changes in consumer taste and preferences as evidenced by changes in fashion. So Nike face the risk that fashion trends may change so fast that Nike fails to follow. If Nike cannot follow the fitness trends in the market they will face risks of losing market shares. To compete with this risks and problems, Nike should position it as a trendsetter and not a trend follower and be responsible to their customers. The global trends are to be fashion and personality. So Nike change its marketing strategies and products design to become more fashion and focus on the youth consumers. It brings risks to Nike because in the traditional mind of customers, they consider Nike only sell the athletic products. The fashion or the changing style products is unimaginative for customers to purchase. Not all the customers can follow the changing of Nike. Therefore, Nike should analyse the market and customers’ preference as well as customers’ buying behavior from time to time. One of Major Nike’s marketing strategies is to expand to overseas and become the leader in the world. It also will bring risks to Nike when they expand their business globally. Currency exchange rate fluctuations can disrupt the business of the independent manufacturers that produce Nike products by making their purchase of raw materials more expensive and more difficult to finance. Besides that, the global economic recession influence the overall business operation in the outsourcing countries. 2) If you were Adidas, how would you compete with Nike? One difficulty most likely to be faced by Adidas is in its marketing, compared to its competitor Nike, Nike spends more money on advertising and promoting their products reputation. Adidas will have a hard time trying to compete with Nike in terms of advertising and promotion, considering Nike’s utilization of low labor cost of production, Nike can afford to spend so much money in creating awareness for their products and gaining consumers loyalty by utilizing celebrities. If I were Adidas I would invest more money on advertising and create innovative means of advertising their product, having consumers in mind and following the trends of technologies, for example, Adidas can collaborate with IT companies such as Samsung to create innovative means of advertising their products. Also a merger could be good for the Adidas, if the right strategy has chosen. For example; Adidas and Reebok joining up together as a merger would be a good deal for leading over Nike but the two companies have a bad reputation due to financial problems which almost led them to bankruptcy and since they are to work together.

Critical Reflection Essay

Planning to facilitate learning in a clinical setting can be very challenging, having to cope with your busy workload and facilitating at the same time. Throughout this essay I will apply Gibbs (1988) to reflect, on the learning I have had undertaking this module (U44124), my teaching session planned and observed, to comment on the feedback I received from my learners and observer, also how this module has helped me overall. I had undertaken the introduction to mentoring, by attending unit 1 mentor preparation programme in 2006. After attending that one day course, I expressed an interest in doing this module, because, I realised that this form of mentoring of students here in the UK is quite different from what I was accustom to back in my country (Guyana) . The learning style here is also very different, for instance in my country students are allocated to the clinical areas with objectives to practice specific skills, after practicing them first in the classroom. Here in the UK, what I observed, are students do not only come with specific objectives, but with a verity of competencies to achieved, as such, have to have a mentor allocated to them. Before commencing this module, I was unsure how to write a reflective essay. I had no idea of what my learning style was, I never gave much thought to reflection in practice, plus I had never written a teaching plan before. After attending the first two session of this module, I realised I was lacking the skill of reflection in my practice. According to Bulman & Schutz (2004) for one to reflect on past experiences , one has to develop the skill of self awareness, description, critical analysis, syntheses, judgement, and evaluation. I was not certain I understood what critical analysis meant, however during our session of group work, listening to my colleagues ideas and experiences, also our lecturer, I began to get a clear picture of what the term meant. When I returned to work, I began the  experimentation of applying critical analysis to my daily practice. For instance, I observed my learners with keen interest of identifying his or her flaws, give constructive feedback which provide for improvement. For example , saying to my learner we need to work on the accepted way of doing systematic documentation. As well as, identifying my flaws in practice and working toward improvement, such as asking myself what I should have done and what I could do better next time. During my professional nurse training commencing in 1996, I was a student who generally liked to read up on thing first, and found it tricky to do things I did not understood. Doing this module made me realized my learning preference was that of read/write as described by Fleming (2007). The learning style questionnaire given to me by our lecturer, highlighted that I am a reflector. In retrospect to my student days, I remember always taking a back seat and listening to my colleagues before I make a point or answer questions, and constantly giving past and present examples of situation, to emphasize what I meant. With the help of this module, I recognized my reason for being that way, I was lacking the experience of expressing my thoughts verbally. Although, I do reflect on my personal life, I never give much thought to reflecting on my practice. According to Taylor (2000) pg2 â€Å" knowing how to reflect is a process for making sense out of life experiences†. This module taught me how to reflect on my professional practice, for example, at the end of my shift I reviewed what I had undertaken on that day, asked myself was my practice done according to my professional guidelines? NMC code of professional conduct (2002), did I use my judgement in giving care to my patients? Do I need to improve on aspect of my practice? Was I able to identify my flaws? In answering these questions I utilised the SMART criteria, setting myself goals and objectives, and plan interventions for my future professional development. After attending the third session of this module, I was able to compare different models of reflection. I found Gibbs (1988) very straightforward, it assisted me with organising my thoughts in a coherent manner, hence, helping me to plan my learning development as well as my learners. I also  found utilising Gibbs (1988) made it easier for me to encourage my learners to reflect on their past placements. The Atkins & Murphy (1994) in my opinion emphasized a more detailed and complex cycle. I found it to be very time consuming and because of my heavy workload in daily practice it difficult for me to adopt. According to Bulman & Schutz (2000) for me to offer a balanced of support and challenge to my learner I must have experience in reflective practice. While I am developing this skill aided by Gibbs cycle, I am at the same time offering my learners the opportunity to reflect on their practice using this cycle. After qualifying I had the opportunity to mentor students and junior colleagues, because as a qualified nurse in my country I was expected to undertaken this role. It was not the usual practice to write a lesion plan, I had to mentor student according to their objectives. To illustrate this, a final year nurse student would be assigned to the recovery room, and her objectives would be to manage a shift under supervision. As her mentor I ensured she undertook this skill with my guidance. Attending this module has taught me how to write a lesion plan with the guidance of the SMART criteria according to Mentoring (2005). These criteria helped me plan my teaching session to meet my learners learning needs at her specific level (1st year ODP student). Undertaking this module made me give some serious thoughts to my professional body requirements of the role of a facilitator of learning. According to the NMC standard (2006) after successfully completing an NMC approved mentor preparation programme, or a comparable programme (accredited by an AEI as meeting the NMC requirement). I understand I would be responsible and accountable for â€Å"organising and coordinating student learning activities in practice, assessing total performance including skills, attitude and behaviour†, pg17. With the acquired knowledge from this course, I am preparing to meet this challenge. Another method I adopted is Swanwick (1994) non-participant observation method cited in the module reader(2007/2008) where he explained that observing your learner caring for a patient, while you are performing another activity such as attending to another patient. This method of assessment give me the opportunity to  indentified good and not so good practice of my learner enabling me to offer critical as well as constructive feedback. Reflecting on my planned teaching session, I adopted the Peyton (1998) four stage model, because this model best suited my learner’s level, which we both agreed upon. In my initial assessment of my learners we established a professional relationship, whereby, we discussed timing of her placement ( not being late for practice), dress code (jewellery not recommended), breaks (timing), and explaining to her all of this would contribute to her developing professionally. Following that, I established a baseline of her knowledge and skills level, which was she possessed basic knowledge and skills at her level (1st year ODP student), this we both agreed upon. I also give her a copy of the learning style questionnaire by Honey & Mumford (1986) to complete. On completion of the questionnaire we both realized that she was a theorist, which was different from my learning style (read/write). If I had not done this module I may have found it difficult to adjust to her learning style, however, because I read about the different theories I understood how to adjust to her learning style to meet her learning needs. There are some similarities with Study et al (1994) and Peyton (1998) models of teaching. Both involve demonstration which I found suited my learners needs, these models allowed for demonstration of skills by teacher and learner, added to that, they provide for visual observations. For my teaching session, I choose a topic relevant to my place of work, as well as for my learner, it was included in her objectives. I did a short lecture with direct questioning , since this method give my learner and the group ( senior nurses from my department), the opportunity to listen, participate with discussion and ask questions. I applied demonstration as an activity to make the lesion interesting, as well as giving the every one present the opportunity to see and practice the skill correctly. According to Quinn (1995) â€Å"demonstration is a visualised explanation of facts, concepts, and procedure designed to show the learner why things happen†. I discussed and  demonstrated slowly and clearly to my learner/group, how to safely and accurately applied oxygen delivery devices (face mask, nasal canola, tracheotomy mask, mask with reservoir bag, non re-breather mask) to patients admitted to recovery room. For this demonstration I outlined patient scenarios and involved my learner/group. Quinn (2000) explained that skills should be taught slowly in correct sequence and there should be no variation in techniques. Referring to the hospital policy for the application of oxygen delivery devices, I employed direct questioning as a learning method for my learner/group as they participated in the demonstration of the skill taught. AS I observed my learner/group performing the skill ,I assessed for confidence for example, Skill being done without displaying nervousness, correctness such as, the nasal canula applied in the right way, knowledge for example, explanation as the skill is being practice, judgement such as, the amount of oxyg en that can be administered, and professionalism such as, perfection in doing the skill. At the end of the session, I revisited the learning outcomes to evaluate the teaching session, ensuring my learner/group was able to: 1. Discuss the local hospital policy about the use of oxygen delivery devices on patients in the recovery room. 2. Identified the six types of oxygen delivery devices used in the recovery room. 3. Demonstrate how to safely and accurately apply the six types of oxygen delivery devices on patient in the recovery room. 4. State the amount of oxygen that can be administered through each type of delivery devices to patients admitted to the recovery room with various oxygen therapy needs. Additionally, I encourage my learner/group to give me verbal feedback by asking questions, such as, name the six types of oxygen delivery devices, and what is the hospital policy for the application of oxygen delivery devices used in the recovery room? The feedback I received from my observer in my opinion was honest feedback. I agreed with her as she highlighted that I work best with one on one or small groups. I found large group intimidating. After completing the three days session of this module, I began to develop the courage to teach larger groups, for example I would prepare a lesion and gather a few of my  colleagues at work and practice different teaching methods. One such is the Studdy et al (1994) where I identified a problem in a patient case scenario and have group discussions, involving a skill and practice sessions. Giving verbal feedback in the end , I found this very helpful because I am beginning to feel comfortable with more persons present at my teaching sessions. One positive feedback from observer, was I worked well with learners. The reason for this, I applied my theoretical knowledge gained undertaking this module, more with my learners during facilitating and also in my daily practice. I reassured and encourage my learners to approach me at any time on matters of concern she may have. Jarvis & Gibson(1997 said â€Å" for a new entrant to progress through their experiences they required a considerable amount of personal support†. This is one of my action plans for my learners. The feedback I received from my learner/group has given me the opportunity to identified my flaws in teaching, such as, one evaluation highlighted that I should prepare more handouts for my teaching sessions plus I could start my teaching with a small quiz. Another suggested, if I do not know the answer to a question, encourage my learner to do research or both of us incorporate this together. I thought the feedback were constructive feedback, because it help me to think of action plans to improve in those areas. Overall this module of facilitating and assessing workplace/placement learning has increased my theoretical knowledge of reflection on practice and has definitely prepared to teach, mentor student and junior colleagues. To illustrate this, I constantly observed my learners in practice, evaluating and offering constructive feedback. As I make my observations, I recognized how helpful this module has been to me, because I am slowly developing the skill of critical analysis. When my learner performed a skill, and I spot a flaw in her performance, I am now able to examined my teaching methods, noting perhaps where I shortfall and come up with action plan for improvement. When she performed well I give on the spot feedback such as, saying to her well done and I observed that those statement encourage her enthusiasm and increased her confidence. When I did give  critical feedback, I did it tactfully for example, making statement like you are doing good documentation, but we need to work on this some more to ensure you are doing it to the recommended standard. Working through the module workbook(2007/2008) I was ready to applied different styles of teaching, such as demonstration, incorporated researched involving my learner and I. Applying different method of assessment such as non-participant, visual observation, questioning and listening. As a new practice facilitator there is still room for improvement in my facilitating ability as well as, my reflection skill. I endeavour to give support and practical help to my learners and junior colleagues. I was always ready to give advice, but this module has encouraged me to also give constructive feedback. Applying Hinchliff (1999) when I am assessing a learner for the first time I also find out what the learner knows, then incorporate this knowledge to form the basis of a learning contract. On Conclusion, Gibbs (1988) reflective cycle has helped me tremendously, it is so systematic I applied it to every situation in my daily practice. I am managing to think about my feelings in a situation, evaluate what was good and bad, what I should or could have done better, make action plan using the SMART criteria. I employed it with all my learners, encouraging them to develop the skill of reflection on practice. Personally, I am still working on developing the analysis aspect of the cycle which I know is achievable with constant practice. Knowing my learning style has helped me to understand why I work and learn the way I do, also assisted me to work effectively with my learners. The evidence of this, everyone has a different learning style and as a new practice facilitator after attending this module, I have a clear understanding of adopting different style of teaching and learning, For example, applying Peyton (1998), Studdy et al (1994), utilising the general strategies and framework for teaching skills, all of which I incorporated to help me developed professionally. Examining the NMC standard of facilitating and assessing placement learning, I am aware of the fact that I would be responsible for assistance of signing off student competencies, as such, I endeavour to keep my knowledge and skills updated. Developing the skill of facilitating workplace learning with the help of attending this course has given me a great deal of satisfaction in helping students and junior colleagues achieved their competencies, thus , making them safe and  confident to practice. I hope to become a practice teacher in the future and planning to undertake the module to achie ve this. I would be happy to be able to help young intelligent minds achieve their gold and career aspirations. Finally, critical reflection needs to be practice on a daily basis for one to master it. Its not just reflection, one must be able to identify the good, the bad, and the indifference of past experiences and compare plus improve in every aspect. This module has contributed to my professional developments a practitioner. I am no longer unsure about what reflection on practice mean and as such, I am prepared to facilitate and assess placement learning to students, ,junior colleagues and new staff.

Discussion point Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Discussion point - Essay Example ad confirmed everything with the sample I was given I simply walked away; only to open the package and find that its hard disk capacity was 300GB instead of the advertised 320GB. I inquired about the reason for the difference at the store and I was informed that the receipt I had signed indicated that it is not a must the goods delivered match exactly with what was advertised. Under the Sales of Goods Act, it is evidently clear that seller was in violation of the Act because the Act prescribes that whatever goods a seller is selling should match with the description given of which in this case is the advert that was placed on the Daily Newspaper. Secondly, the Sales of Goods Act requires that the goods sold by the seller must match the sample shown to the customer and it must be free of any hidden defects. Therefore, the seller was in total violation of Sales of Goods Act because of the fact that he sold me a laptop that did not match the description on the advert and even the sample I was shown at the store (Macleod,

Academic Writing and Presentation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Academic Writing and Presentation - Essay Example These people also have different needs in their lives which impact on the performance of the organization in different ways. Whilst there are certain challenges that are likely to be encountered when four generations work in one organization, it can be noted that there are also opportunities for this scenario. The findings of the article include the following: employers must make an effort to identify the characteristics of each generation of employees working in the organization since this can impact on their performance. The employers must also be in a position to build an environment that promotes productivity among all generations since they may have different perceptions towards their work. The managers should also promote mentor programs in the organization that are meant to promote learning and knowledge sharing among generational diversity in the company. It is also important for the managers to create an environment that promotes mutual understanding among the employees belonging to different generations. This helps to prevent conflicts which are often viewed as counterproductive in the operations of the organization. The main purpose of the paper was to illustrate that employees in various companies belong to different generations. There are four generations identified in the study and they try to divide different generations into clusters of individuals with the same age. The behaviour of these people is shaped by their age in particular and the experiences they encountered as they were growing up. These generations have different perceptions towards various aspects of life. Even at workplace, it can be seen that people belong to different generations have different perceptions towards their work. The traditionalists in particular are content with the traditional way of doing things while the Generation X and millennial are interested in achieving good things that

How to Improve Employee Engagement in an Organisation+ HR startegies Term Paper

How to Improve Employee Engagement in an Organisation+ HR startegies of being able to measure Employee Engagement - Term Paper Example This study has also outlined various HR strategies implemented by Tesco management so that they can maintain their leading position in the UK based retail industry (Brajer-Marczak 259-261). From the study, I have gained an idea of Employee Engagement policies that are used by Tesco. Tesco is using the strategies centrally from the UK based headquarters to different subsections of global distribution centers. I came to know about the term â€Å"helicopter view† that is mainly the HR and Employee Engagement policy of Tesco. It is primarily a modified version of the conflict management strategies. Broad issues are collected from different branch operations. HR policies of Tesco are aiming to offer more quality in products, and on store ambiance. Tesco is facing the challenge from ASDA, Sainsbury, Morrison’s, Walmart, LIDL and ALDI. Therefore, employee retention and development policies must be well designed. In addition, I have learned that Employee Engagement policies of Tesco are collecting demands and knowledge from the employees. This type of HR policy will reduce different type of recurring training and development cost. Collective bargaining is enterta ined to ensure proper features of the workplace and remuneration policies. Employee engagement policies of the Tesco are discussed in details to ensure more quality. The term employee engagement is making the HR process more complex. Employees are engaged into the business policies and strategic directions in order to increase the commitment towards the organization. Organizations are increasing loyalty management process that will aid them to retain skilled and expert employees. On the other hand, productivity of the retail firms will gradually increase with the help of motivated set of employees. Emotional support provisions to the employees will make them feel more valued (Bridger 127-129). Concept of employee engagement is

Major Issues in the United States Food Supply Essay

Major Issues in the United States Food Supply - Essay Example Despite these measures, outbreaks do occur, requiring swift intervention by the regulating agencies to control the damage and take action against those responsible. This includes product recalls, issuing health warnings, and taking legal action against the persons guilty of negligence or intentional breach of safety. The following paragraphs highlight some of the main issues in ensuring food safety in the United States. The United States food supply has seen a number of high-profile outbreaks in the recent past. Such outbreaks result in disease, hospitalization and even deaths in some extreme cases. Ever since the threat of terrorism against American citizens, the government has become increasingly sensitive to issues of food safety and outbreaks, and such incidents are responded to swiftly. Certain examples can serve to illustrate the nature of food supply issues in the United States. In April 2012, there was an outbreak of Escherichia coli in 11 states. Around 29 people were infect ed and seven were hospitalized as a result of consuming infected clover sprouts (Deloitte, 3). At times, such outbreaks also lead to large-scale product recalls announced by government authorities. In November of 2012, peanut butter manufactured in a Minnesota factory was infected by a Salmonella strain. As a result, 42 people were infected and the FDA recalled the product from 20 states across the United States. The Regulation of Imported Food Products An important issue in the food supply safety of the United States is the role of national as well as international produce. The United States is a big importer of food products including meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, and so on. While there are food safety standards in force in the United States, other countries may be following standards and regulations that are less stringent. Therefore, the challenge for the United States is to strike a balance between meeting the demand for food products in the country while ensuring food safety in the supply chain. A case in point is the meat recall of 2012 where 2.5 million pounds of beef imported from Alberta in Canada had been infected by E. coli. Canada is still the largest food exporter to the United States, making up 19.8% of its total food imports in 2012 (Deloitte, 4). The European Union, China, Mexico and Brazil are other large food importers to the country. Smuggling of food into the United States is another major issue in food safety. Smuggled food enters undetected into the food supply, which prevents it from being inspected for pathogens and other contamination by the relevant agencies. Smuggled food is thus likely to be of a poorer quality and a great threat to the health of people in low income groups. An anti-smuggling strategy has been developed by the FDA and other agencies. The role of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is essential in the prevention of food being smuggled across the border (FDA, 2013). Food is usually smuggled across the Mexico bo rder because it allows the smugglers to avoid paying import taxes and sidestep inspection. However, this could result in undetected pathogens making their way into the United States food supply and posing a threat to the health and well-being of consumers.  

Financail Management - Risk and Capital Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Financail Management - Risk and Capital - Essay Example Secondly we might have underestimated the growth rate which has a dramatic impact on the price of the stock. The higher the growth rate, the greater the price of the stock will be and it is expected that in the high-tech industry, a company such as IBM holds great expectation and it must have a better growth rate than what we have expected. Therefore by increasing the dividend growth rate and current annual dividend we can get a better estimate from this model. This model underestimates the value of the stock in firms that consistently payout less than they can afford and accumulate cash in process. Changed Market Risk Premium: Required rate of return = 3.40 + 1.64(10) Required Rate of Return = k = 19.8% Constant Growth Model D1= D0 (1+g) D1= 0.80 (1+0.082) = 0.8656 As we have increased the required rate of return, we are assuming a greater risk with the stock which in turn decreases the value of the stock as it can be seen from the above calculations. This also differs drastically f rom the market price due to the reason mentioned above.

Management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Management - Research Paper Example As the world has entered the twenty first century, it has experienced revolutionary changes in many facets of business community. The advancements have not only come under experience in the economic, political, and social sectors but they have transformed and modernized the Industrial sector as well. With the increase in globalization, the business and organizations are emerging on a central platform and universal trade and businesses are expanding their operations to international markets. With the Industrial boom, organizations and enterprises are expanding their business operations as with the increase in world population, the demand for goods and services is escalating, and therefore, in order to meet the customer requirements and to gain a competitive edge over competitors, companies are rising (Brunsson, 2008). Whether a small organization or a giant corporation, management is one of the primary, foremost and the most significant aspect that every organization needs. The management refers to a practice or a course of action that involves successful, valuable, proficient, and competent accomplishment of set of actions and tasks via dealing with other people. Management is a process that makes the maximum use of the tangible assets through integrating couple of people or employees collectively under one umbrella in order to achieve and attain the organization’s aims, targets, missions and visions (Brunsson, 2008). The top person of the management requires a lot of devotion, commitment, determination, and hard work in order to thrive and be successful and achieve the desired outputs and results. In order to become the best or the cream of the crop, an individual should possess, widen, extend and increase their management and cross-functional leadership abilities. The primary and principal factors for any manager or an organization are to identify and evaluate the SWOT analysis that represents the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It is vital to reveal the strengths that a person or organization possess, and enhance and refine them up. In addition, the weaknesses should come under recognition by the person or the organization so that with the help of different techniques the weakness can overcome. Organizations must try to convert the weaknesses into opportunities so that they can surmount their weaknesses and can have opportunities to grow themselves. Lastly, the threats that t hey have from their competitors present in the market should come under observation intimately and thoroughly. A successful leader develops all the attributes and elements of leadership, communication, conceptual, interpersonal, and technical abilities and proficiencies (Brunsson, 2008). Management is a theory and process that comes under practice by all institutions whether they are educational, business, or governmental and every individual being a student plays an important role in the building and progress of organizations like school and management. Management Functions Management encompasses several functions with it that includes planning, organizing, staffing, directing, coordinating/communicating, controlling/monitoring, and budgeting. Planning is the stepping-stone in any management aspect on which the functions of management come under establishment and creation. Planning can come under implementation for any organization in order to accomplish and achieve the companyâ₠¬â„¢s mission, vision, targets and aims that the organization sets for them to flourish and generate revenues. Planning come under performance in the form of developing strategies and methods that the employee practices towards the achievement of organization’

Analyse the benefits of deploying tablet computers in organisations Essay

Analyse the benefits of deploying tablet computers in organisations and should focus specifically, and at a minimum, on areas su - Essay Example In addition, new technologies in the field of information technology (IT) are creating ethical dilemmas. The effectiveness and speediness related to the electronic information technology systems that consist of limited and international networks, databases and processing programs for information technology. These systems also force consumers to tackle new rights and responsibilities in order to use the data and re-evaluate principles of advent computers. 1.1 The Significance of Ethics Authority, resource and control are the major resources of the information. In fact, the key to success is the right access towards the information. As a result, the social and political relationships are also involved in the development and growth of information systems. It is more important and ethical that how this information is been utilized by the people. For instance, government levels, headquarters and homes include the electronic systems. This involvement is increased so much that the people no t having access to the information systems are exaggerated in a particular way. For this reason, new and modern techniques, innovative ethical and lawful decisions are needed in order to stable the requirements and privileges of every person (Reynolds 2011). 1.2 Legal Gaps Filled by Ethics The legal decision lags lies as in modern technological field behind technical development and growth. These gaps are filled through confronting on the issue and by discussing the facts on how to use the electronic information should be proceed. Furthermore, the above observation delineates the ethical issues in a broad way. On the contrary, the deciding laws include some characteristics related to the issues. These legal issues should be resolved by the Information Systems electronically. 1.3 Electronic Information System Ethics In relation to the entire community, the ethics consists of moral options choose by the individuals. These include acceptable standards associated with behavior along wit h the governing rules of members for an occupation. Moreover, these expand to computer networks, computerized databases and significantly to a Geographic Information Systems. The issues that are present particularly in the three areas require a little different type of ethical decisions. In general, the Electronic Systems, Geographic Information Systems and Networks are being described individually below 1.3.1 Network as Social Places In modern days, network has become a place to share ideas, thoughts and personal information. It is a social place where individuals can discover friendships, discuss on several issues, share some unusual interests, fight, form groups, show sympathy, proselytize and fall in love. With other traditional activities, these activities have also become a part of life. Ray Oldenburg an author delineates network as a new kind of â€Å"third Place† in which anyone can communicate, share ideas and gather for hospitality a part from home and work which is the first and second place. The hypothesis stated that, the networks can replace chances of social interaction that is been vanished in the modern world of fringes. Moreover, other authors are more conscious regarding the social networking and communicating therefore they termed this as: virtualized communities. One of the examples incorporates Google Inc. that introduced its Buzz social network in February 2010

Phobias and Addiction Paper Essay Example for Free

Phobias and Addiction Paper Essay A phobia is a learned bodily response in reference to a difficult life event. Centered in the amygdala portion of the brain which regulates the fight or flight response, a somatic sensation of anxiety occurs in the presence of specific stimuli. The precipitating factor may have been experienced by the person themselves-or may have been experienced secondhand through misfortune that may have occurred to a friend or loved on. In some cases, a phobia may have no discernible cause or may appear irrational-to everyone but the person experiencing it! Phobic reactions or symptoms of anxiety can include: a racing heart, sweaty palms, an upset stomach and a general feeling of unease. Classical conditioning is a response that is triggered by an outside stimulus-or the thought of such stimulus. The perfect example is the Pavlovian response-in which Pavlov would ring a bell before dinnertime and his dogs would salivate. Over time, he extinguished the presence of the food yet kept the ringing of the bell. The dogs still salivated-at the idea of food coming, a basic bodily response to the suggestion of a specific stimulus. This is commonly referred to as a Pavlovian response. Classical conditioning has two components to it-the acquisition stage and the extinction phase. In the acquisition stage, the initial learned response is obtained. For example, in the case of a phobia-a person may break out in a cold sweat presence of crossing a bridge as he drives. In the extinction phase, the bridge may not be present but the memory of it may be present-enough to still cause the phobic reaction. Thus, merely thinking about a stimulus, even when it is extinct, can still bring on the same phobic response. The phobic response, therefore, is strengthened each time it is felt. The stimulus-present or not-extinct or not-become fused together in the persons mind. The phobia sufferer then will go to great lengths to avoid the stimulus at any cost. The phobia then worsens as he avoids facing his fears head on. This is how classical conditioning can increase the intensity of a phobia. Addictions are defined as a persistent behavioral pattern that is marked by physical and/or psychological dependency on someone or something. Addictions became an issue in the treatment milieu when they significantly disrupt the life of the addicted individual. Terminology has become quite complicated. Those individuals from a medical background define addiction from a physiological basis. For example-opiates, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, alcohol and nicotine are classical examples of those substances, which cause a physical dependence. On a lesser scale, there are those items that can cause a physiological dependence, as evidenced by changes in the neurotransmitters in the brain-some examples would be over the counter nasal sprays or laxatives. Psychological addictions can be defined within the context of a slippery slope- there are as many addictions as there are specialists to treat them. (Evidence the most recent news of the plethora of celebrities being treated for sex addiction. ) Some examples of area in which psychological addiction may occur include the following-shopping, pornography, eating, exercise and self injury. There is a physiologic reward, however, as the object of the addictive persons attention -akathe reward activates the pleasure enter of the brain-emitting dopamine. Therefore, the addictive behavior is rewarded with a rush of dopamine to the person engaging in the behavior. Operant conditioning is the use of consequences to form or shape a behavior. There are three main components relevant to operant conditioning. First, there is the aspect of reinforcement-this basically applies to a consequence that causes the addictive behavior to occur with greater frequency. An example of this would be as follows- An individual is consumed with shopping. They scour the news every day to find out where the sales will be taking place; they belong to a network of people that trade shopping information relevant to their area of interest. Then the day comes and they make the purchase. This act reinforces their addiction with a momentary high (that is usually short lived. ) Second, the aspect of punishment-a consequence that makes an action occur, less frequently-comes into play. When an addictive urge is felt, and the desired object is taken away (i. e. the punishment) the urge to obtain the desired rush still exists-albeit even stronger. The person then works harder to obtain the drug, the act, and the food-whatever the addiction is. In this way, the operant conditioning aspect of punishment reinforces and addiction. Third, there is the element of extinction. Extinction occurs when there is a lack of consequence following a behavior-good or bad. An individual who is wantonly exhibiting a sexual addiction while in a serious relationship-l et’s take that as an example. Without being caught, there is no consequence. The addictive behavior continues unchecked. It is reinforced. I have exemplified the ways in which operant conditioning can develop and maintain addictive behavior. The difference between classical and operant conditioning is as follows: very succinctly put, classical conditioning forms a relationship between two stimuli-for example, one thinks of/or sees a chocolate cake, the salivary glands begin to work! Operant conditioning forms a relationship between a stimuli and a consequence. You touch the stove while its on, you get burnt. Bet you wont do that again-a relationship is formed on the basis of a negative consequence. Conversely, the consequence can also be positive. Example-you do your homework on time and as assigned, you get a good grade, a positive consequence has occurred, which will (hopefully) shape future behaviors. Extinction is achieved through the gradual phasing out of reward in operant conditioning, while hoping to still achieve the same behavior. Example, one has been rewarded with a good driver award after years of possessing a great driving record. With the extinction of this positive consequence (i. e. no reward)-one would hope that the good driving habits would continue. In classical conditioning, I will present an example-if we ring a bell and cause a dog we have a conditioned stimulus-however if we keep ringing that bell without giving the dog any food (an unconditioned stimulus) eventually the dog will unlearn his conditioned response. Extinction has then occurred. In summation, extinction is operant conditioning relates to the phasing out of consequence in classical conditioning it is the phasing out of response.

Management and Supply Function Essay Example for Free

Management and Supply Function Essay It should be emphasised from the outset that purchasing and supply management is executed as an integrated part of the firms broader management (as part of the logistics management or supply chain management approach) *Purchasing and supply PLANNING is part of the firms general planning, mainly because the continuous supply of raw materials components services is of a strategic importance to the enterprise. The supply market is just as important for the firms survival continued profitability as the sales market is the firms own product. Firms general planning must be integrated. *The ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE of the purchasing and supply function should be aimed mainly @ linking into the firms overall structure in the most effective way. The purchasing and supply function primarily renders a service to the enterprise. *Purchasing and supply COORDINATION should be aimed @ harmonising and aligning the activities of the purchasing and supply function with those of the other business functions. When a firm vests the authority for the purchasing and supply function in 1 person or team. Advantages: ;gt;Standardisation of materials and products is possible because purchases are made at one point ;gt;Purchasing and supply staff are afforded the opportunity to become experts ;gt;Control over all aspects of the purchasing and supply function is improved ;gt;Administrative costs are reduced by eliminating duplication DECENTRALISED PURCHASING ; SUPPLY ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE Purchasing by different departments, branches or plants, while each of them enjoys an important measure of autonomy of decision making regarding the purchasing and supply function. Advantages: ;gt;Better liaision can be effected between decentralised purchasing and supply functions and the user functions of individual plants served by the purchasing and supply function ;gt;The needs users can be better satisfied because the purchasing and supply function knows them better ;gt;Different plants maintain their autonomy. Plant managers are often fully responsible  for the profitability of individual plants. According to the combined approach, common requirements of the different plants such as equipment and certain categories of raw materials, are purchased centrally head of office. The plants purchasing and supply functions are assisted by corporate   purchasing and supply in developing policies, procedures, and control measures, recruiting and training staff, auditing the   purchasing and supply performance of the plants. The main coordinating mechanisms of purchasing and supply management with other functions in the organisation, and with suppliers and customers, are definitely computer systems such as electronic data interchange(EDI), materials planning (MRPII) and distribution requirements planning (DRP). TWO TYPES OF COORDINATION Between purchasing and supply and other functional areas Purchasing coordination is lateral acts in an advisory/support method to the other functions in the enterprise. Between p and s and the supplier system Two dimensions to the coordination between p and s function and the supplier system. Firstly there is coordination with the whole supplier system and secondly with the individual suppliers. The flow of products and services from the supplier has to be effective, the p and s function has to ensure that coordination between them and the supplier ensures this occurs. This can be achieved by means of supplier alliances, integrated systems and inter-organisational teams. The supplier must become an extension of the buying enterprise. The chief coordinating mechanisms available to p and s management are open communication, strategic alliances, integrated systems, the conscious motivation of suppliers and standardisation of specifications, purchasing documents and purchasing procedures. CONTROL : PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE PURCHASING AND SUPPLYFUNCTION Control may be defined as a systematic attempt to reach objectives or set standards that accord with the enterprises goal, to observe actual perform- ance and compare it with the set standards, and to take corrective steps with a view to achieving the mission and goals of the enterprise. Objectives and basic principles of performance evaluation P and activities are complex, needs to have a control system. Feedback   on actual performance(measured against quantitative norms). This ensures that the p and s strategy is implemented at the various levels in the company. With this the p and s manager can monitor and improve the functions actual performance. Control ensures that all the other functions with p and s work optimally.

Research types and research strategies

Research types and research strategies Research Research is often described as an active, diligent, and systematic process of inquiry aimed at discovering, interpreting and revising facts. This intellectual investigation produces a greater knowledge of events, behaviors, theories, and laws and makes practical applications possible. The term research is also used to describe an entire collection of information about a particular subject, and is usually associated with the output of science and the scientific method. Research Types And Research Strategies Its necessary to choose the right type of research strategy that suits the research aim and objectives. Its considered to be very essential while doing a research. According to Saunders et al (2000) various research strategies are Survey, experimental, case study, ethnography, grounded theory, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies , action research and exploratory, descriptive and the explanatory studies. According to Collis and Hussey (2003) the research types are descriptive, exploratory, analytical and predictive research, applied and the basic research, quantitative and qualitative research and deductive research and inductive research. Before selecting the exact research strategy its important to have complete review about the above research strategies. Experiment is a form of classical type of research that which owes in natural sciences. According to Saunders et al. (2000) this research is suitable for research related to social science particularly to psychology. Survey is a form of deductive approach and this is a common strategy in business and management type of research. Survey is based on questionnaires with sizable population. Sizable population can be of any number from low numbers to large population in the city. It can be compared easily and is perceived authoritatively of people in general. The reason because why the survey based research is advised because it is understandable. It gives a good control the research process when conducting the survey based research. The data when collected by this strategy is not wide ranging as the other strategies. But however it is not the only strategy present for data collection. The prime disadvantage in using the questionnaire process is that it is not good for exploratory or othe r types of research which required large amount of open ended questions. But can be used in explanatory and descriptive types of research. Qualitative And Quantitative Methods The researcher adopts both qualitative and quantitative methods for data acquisition. Questionnaire technique is adopted for the quantitative method and semi structured interview for qualitative method. The Quantitative research methods were originally developed in the natural sciences to study natural phenomena. Examples of quantitative methods now well accepted in the social sciences include survey methods, laboratory experiments, formal methods and numerical methods such as mathematical modeling. This is primarily based on the measurements with the level of employee attitudes based on the topic. The qualitative research technique is widely used in the business management. The strengths of quantitative method are helps to state the research problem in very specific and it helps to achieve high level of reliability of gathered data due to controlled surveys and other form of research manipulations. The questionnaire is prepared by the author and distributed to the respondents to collect the data for the research. It involves the use of survey in gathering information about the groups view regarding the effectiveness of the firm. All Staffs from top management down to the junior staff participate in the survey feedback. Once the data are collected from the respondents it is organized by the researcher to used it in the research. The kind of information needed for the research is evaluated with necessary conversations with the respondents of an organization. For this research the primary research methods are used to collect data from National Food Products Company (NFPC). From different Quantitative methodologies, questionnaire method will be used for thi s research for collecting the primary data from NFPC. The questionnaire is designed based on the research objectives and it will be distributed to the staffs of NFPC for collecting the primary data of this research. Research Design A research design is the logical and systematic planning and directing a place of research. A research design is considered as the framework or plan for the study that guides as well as helps the data collection and analysis of the data. Sampling The first work of sampling is identifying and defining precisely the population to be sampled. The sample is any part of the population regardless of whether is representative or not. The most difficult task in selecting a sample is to define the population by appropriate technique, which makes sure that the sample is the representative of the population and the outcome of the data is not biased in any way. Since, it is usually impossible to select the actual sample size a generalization is used but the researcher has to make sure that the representative sample is generalization of the whole sample. Even before the researcher has started his analysis, he should not have a biased outcome in his mind because this might alter the outcome of the whole sample. In order to draw representative samples from which valid generalization can be made to the population, a number technique can be used. The most frequently used sampling technique by the student researcher is the random sample. Here, after identifying the population, a representative sample can be drawn. Here, each member of the population of the equal chance of being selected and selection of one object is independent of the selection of any other. The research sampling also involves another type sampling method of cluster sampling. Here, the sample size would include a group as a unit. The group has similarities to the representative of the whole sample. However in the cluster, sampling method is not much helpful to the researcher if it is wide spread across a huge geographical area. Both random sampling and cluster sampling i n this research, would sample representative of completely different people of the society thus, both methods are essential for the research. Data Collection And Analysis The main modes of data collection are primary and secondary methods. Primary Data The primary data are those data which are collected afresh and for the first time, and thus happens to be original in character. There are several methods of collecting primary data. Observation Method Interview Method Through questionnaires Through schedules etc. Secondary Data Secondary data means data that are already available ie: they refer to the data which have already been collected and analyzed by someone else. When the research needs secondary data, then he has to look into various sources from where he can obtain them. Secondary data may be either: Published or unpublished data or records. Company brochures and other books offering relevant information for the study Company web sites. Questionnaire Method Questionnaires will be designed and distributed to the large number of potential respondents for collecting the primary data. It will be used for collecting large number of reviews to allow statistical analysis of the results. The extraction of information from the respondents depends on the well designed questionnaire. Questionnaire is prominent method of collecting primary data. Questionnaire will contain multiple choice and open ended questions is described by Graziano and Raulin (2006). For this research multiple choice questions will be used to collect more response from respondents the success of data collection is indeed dependent on design of questionnaire and the careful selection of questions. Questionnaire is one of the most reliable forms of collecting primary data. A questionnaire is an excellent information provider. No research is complete without a well designed questionnaire. If the questionnaire is not properly structured it could lead to inconclusive information hence logical thinking, correct language and transparently of the questionnaire is essential. The Questionnaire Transcript will be attached in Appendix-I for reference. Sample Size The size of the sample chosen for survey is 60 respondents. The researcher distributed questionnaire to the employees of Grade 5 above, to know about their view on the performance appraisal conducted in the company. Universe Of Study National Food Products Company, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Topic Of Study The topic of study is entitled as â€Å"Effectiveness of Performance Appraisal System in National Food Product Company (NFPC), Abu Dhabi, UAE.† Scope Of Study The number of Samples elements for Questionnaire survey is 60, these are respect to the area of the research within NFPC, UAE. The company mainly has divided their employees in different grades. Grade 1- 4: Cleaners, Kitchen Helper, Sales Helper, Production Helper, Garage Helper, Operators (machine), Tea boys, Drivers. Grade 5 and above: Foreman, HR assistant, Secretaries, Coordinators Supervisors and Senior Accountants, Assistant Managers and above. In this report, Grade 5 and above employees are taken into consideration. The respondents were, Manager of different departments of NFPC namely MILCO, LACNOR, PLASTIC and also their supervisors and foremans. Respondents from departments namely Human Resource, Accounts, Public Relations and Purchasing were also taken. The Questionnaire will be distributed directly to the employees of the company in the printed format giving prior introduction about the research in brief. Summary As explained in this chapter the quantitative – questionnaire methods will be used in this research for collecting the primary data. In the next chapter primary data which is collected from NFPC, UAE using the selected research methodologies will be discussed by the researcher with related charts. Objectives Of The Study To study about the present Performance Appraisal system in National Food Product Company, UAE. To study about the effectiveness of Performance appraisal system adopted in NFPC, UAE. To identify the appropriate frequency considered by present performance appraisal adopted by NFPC, UAE. To find out the preferences regarding methods of Performance appraisal system adopted in NFPC, UAE in future. To draw inferences based on the study. Limitations The study is confined itself to only one organization namely, National Food Products Company, (NFPC), UAE, as such the findings of the study cannot be generalized to other undertakings because it may not be reliable as the work environment may vary from one place to another. Time constraints of some respondents forced them to give casual response without evaluating the questions seriously because of their busy schedule of given task accomplishment in the organization. The number of respondents was limited to 60 respondents because of the busy schedule of the staff and did not respond to the questionnaire. Due to companys policies, certain information was not shared. The response given by the respondents may be biased.

American History :: essays research papers

Great White Americans 1990s -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bill Clinton o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Democrat o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Scandal o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Less aggressive than Bush about Foreign Policy o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Iraq first step o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"You are with me or not with me† o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cut money supplies for terrorism -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bush o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Republican o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  No social programs o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Oversea social programs o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Based on his father 911 -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Police Rescuers o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hand by hand, helped a lot. o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  America united they stand o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Majority of white people o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  356 died white -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bill gates o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Born seattle o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Harvard  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dropped out o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  First commercially successful PC o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Microsoft o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the richest example -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Steve Jobs o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Apples o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Pixar -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  John Elway o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Football player -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  McGwrie o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Baseball o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  60 Homeruns Terrorism -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Background info o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Islam and Radical Islam  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Islamic Values  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Family, Faith, Hard work, and improvement of self and society  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Purity  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Only one god  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Misconceptions  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Treatment of women  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Treatment of minorities  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Radical Islam groups  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Taliban  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Kharijites o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Belief  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Lost of true path  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Non-believers are sinner  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Violence can be justified o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Key Believers  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  None that is famous  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Wahhabi Islam o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Beliefs  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Newer editions of the Quran is false  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Violence can be justified o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Key Believers  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Osama Bin Laden  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Muslim Brotherhood o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Beliefs  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Complete Islamic society  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  No nation state  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  No Democracy o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Key Believers  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dr. Ayman al-Zawahiri  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Sayyid Qutb  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hassan al-Turabi  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Common points o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Islam has changed o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  God is supreme, obey god only o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The west is a place of sins o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hates Israel o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Major Terrorist Figure  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Osama Bin Laden  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Leader of Al Qaeda  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Raised in a wealthy family  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Learned Radicalism during University years  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The invasion of Soviet Union shaped his ideology  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Why he hates America  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  America’s support for Israel and its position on the Arab – Israeli conflict  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  U.S. military attacks and sanctions agains some Arab countries and its military bases in the Arab world.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  U.S. Support for some authoritarian Arab regimes, and its hostile policies toward Islam, and its own citizens of Arab and Muslim origin.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  U.S. hypocritical behavior regarding democracy and human rights in the Arab world. o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Al Qaeda  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Founded in 1988 by Bin Laden  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  2830 members  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Purpose  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  To overthrow Muslim governments  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Radicalization  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Destroy the U.S.  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Tactics  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Use of terrorism  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  High technical sophistication o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Terrorist Attacks  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Octover 8, 2002 attack on US military personnel

Essay example --

Ehud Olmert Ali Purtell Ehud Olmert, a former prime minister of Israel, was motivated to try and make peace among the Israelis and Arabs. Other leaders of Israel used violence to try and resolve the conflict but it only made things worse. Olmert wanted to use peace instead of violence to try and end the Arab-Israeli conflict. His efforts to achieve peace affected the Arab-Israeli conflictbut without long term results. Olmert has worked as the former prime minister of Jerusalem, Deputy Premier, Finance Minister, and Mayor of Jerusalem, giving him many years of experience and knowledge regarding world affairs like the Arab-Israeli conflict. Ehud Olmert met with Palestinian President, Mohamed Abbas, in September of 2008 and assured him that Olmert’s plan for peace would not require any military presence. This allowed Mohamed to see that Olmert really wanted to make peace. Ehud Olmert didn’t always use peaceful means to handle the Palestinians and other countries. When he was elected as Mayor for Israel in 1993, he supported the growth of Jewish settlements around Jerusalem blocking out the Palestinians and other religions. Later, when he was elected as prime minister, he realized the only way to resolve the conflict was to address it peacefully and through negotiations. Israel has been dealing with Palestinian pressures to give back the land that they consider â€Å"theirs† and other leaders have had different views on how to handle aggression from the Palestinians. Ehud Olmert’s views included handling the conflict with peace and not using violence. He suggested to Mohamed Abbas a convergence plan which centered around the idea that the Israeli people would be forced out of the West Bank which is an are... ...m. A part of the problem today in this conflict is the people not willing to change or go along with what their leaders enforce and their ideas. There have been many acts of aggression from the Jews themselves because they didn’t feel Palestine’s should receive land. Civil disobedience and acting out is a cause to making the conflict last longer. Overall, Olmert as a prime minister was successful in being consistent in using negotiations to try to create peace even though long term peace was never gained. He worked hard to come up with plans and agreements, and met with different important figures in the world regarding the Arab-Israeli conflict. Using peace has prevented some violence between the Palestinians and Israelis as well as other countries. While Olmert is not in office anymore, he still believes a peaceful approach is the answer to help end this conflict.

Biogenetics - The Dangers of Biogenetically Engineered Organisms :: Biology Environment Ecology Essays

Biogenetics - The Dangers of Biogenetically Engineered Organisms As I sit here at my desk in front of my computer contemplating what to write about, I look out of the window and watch the bees at work around the large bush that has flowered in front of my house.They busily go from one tiny flower to the next looking for nectar and exchanging pollen. Occasionally one will fly away presumably to inform other bees at the hive about the location and abundance of this bush.More bees arrive to help in the gathering of nectar while others leave to deliver their bounty. Each bee is an integral part of a hive, a biological system.Each bee is also an important part of a larger system, an ecosystem and in turn each ecosystem is part of a grand system, the environment that we live in, also known as the planet Earth.Odd that such tiny little creatures, who seem oblivious to all but the flowers they are buzzing, could be part of such a large system.Even more amazing is the effect they have on this system.If not for the bees more than 30% of the plan ts and vegetables we take for granted would never be able to reproduce.In turn many of the animals we depend on for food, clothing, companionship and love would never survive.If the animal that we rely on died then most assuredly we, or most of us, would die in a matter of months.Now that little creature looks much larger and more important to me than it did just 5 minutes ago. Odd how such a small factor can have such a large effect on an equation isn’t it? Throughout the world this very important and delicate balance goes on, as do millions of others every day each affecting the other and yet at the end of the day they manage to balance each other out.As educated and well-informed people many times we may look at a system and think that we understand its intricacies but do we?And even if we do, do we have the right to change the way it works just to suit our needs?This is the question I will address in this paper and hopefully get you, the reader, to think about what we as a collective are doing and are about to do with the knowledge that we posses.

Reaction paper to malampaya fund

When I'm reading articles, facts, and history about this, I was surprised with 137. 8 billion pesos estimated fund collected annually with this project. In reality with this capital, we can build another oil industry and various projects to manipulate this asset which primarily based on research that Philippines are rich in natural resources. When we overcome this proper usage, manipulation, development and strengthening the force of our country that we may be not able to bully by other states and get this place which are capable to make our country powerful than them.If this so, Philippines have the capabilities to pace with other countries also focuses on producing oil and other natural resources found in their area. But what happen? It goes to the pockets of the corrupt government officials instead it is for the development of the country. But there's nothing new about it. What was the road were taking in? Is this the track that they promised with their sweet words? Or if will und erstand this at present, promises are really made to be broken.We lack of ability of manipulation of the things that we really owned. When I'm writing this reaction paper, I feel so bad not only to those public officials but also to those who have the right to suffrage, still we choose who are popular, good-looking without dedication and accountability. As a public administration student, starting now I will think what's good for the country than filling my own pocket coming from the taxes earned through hard work of every citizen. Our country needs us.

Janice Galloway’s, “Foreign Parts” Essay

Janice Galloway’s, â€Å"Foreign Parts† explores the theme of fractured identity in an original and effective manner. In my SSL I shall explore how structure and characterisation are central in the development of this theme with close reference to the text, showing also, how Janice Galloway engaged my interest in an effective way. Janice Galloway offers her readers something, which is a little more controversial and appealing in its approach. â€Å"Foreign Parts† follows the story of two ‘fragmented’ women’s search for belonging, as they travel a foreign country with useless maps and guides in the hope of acquiring some form of identity and independence. Galloway explores this lack of identity, experienced at some point by us all, by fragmenting and splintering the text to reflect the jigsaw characters. This novel ponders how, â€Å"We are neither real nor proper: just fraudulent moochers in other people’s territory†, and encourages the reader to explore fully the issue of splintered identity. In doing so we cannot avoid acquiring an in-depth understanding of the techniques used by Galloway and her unique style, also an appreciation of the importance of structure to the novel’s success. The structure, notably the use of fragmented sentencing, I believe plays an essential role in achieving this success. It not only encourages the reader to take an active part in piecing together the story, but also gives us an insight into the characters themselves and of how they are disjointed and fractured in all respects. â€Å"BRICOLAGE A foreign word on a hoarding.† Confronted by this term on arrival, it provides a fitting description of the central techniques used in the text. â€Å"Bricolage†, in French, is used when describing DIY – making something new out of bits and pieces. In my opinion, this idea is central when talking of Rona and Cassie’s relationship: â€Å"We could make a go of it ourselves. Look after each other†¦Heterosexuality, Rona. A sick joke right enough.† They wish to piece things together in a new way, provide other possibilities. They offer an alternative way of life, a challenge to conventional â€Å"heterosexuality†. This basic theme is made evident throughout the text, primarily by Galloway’s consistent use of the ‘bricolage’ structure. She also achieves this fragmentation by introducing extracts from guidebooks and road signs: NORMANDY is an agricultural region, full of farms and meadowland, orchards and rich green pasture These extracts are what structure Rona and Cassie’s holiday; their dependency upon these useless sources shows the lack of direction they have in their lives. The guidebook they use entitled, â€Å"Potted France† is relevant in expressing that the characters are â€Å"potted†; they do not appear whole and feel they are missing something from their lives. Primarily they lack identity. The introduction of these extracts, reinforce the degree of fragmentation suffered by these characters. However, it is only one of the many jigsaw like qualities of Rona and Cassie, who appear fragmented in every respect. The frequent use of the structure: â€Å"Rona and Cassie, Cassie and Rona†, I think is used to show the fight for equality within their relationship and the unsure stance they also feel. Perhaps it is also relative in reimbursing the fact that Carrie and Rona are isolated from the community, yet bound together because of their likeness. The space around this structure reflects the isolation of the characters. Their lack of place is true, in not only their personal relationship, but both socially and nationally – making structure truly important in relaying the themes. Cassie and Rona go on to describe themselves as â€Å"fraudulent moochers†, this expresses how they feel they lack social position. Also described as being in â€Å"other people’s territory†, it would seem Cassie and Rona believe they have no place nationally either. These concerns appear to be important themes within the book but I think they also reflect the inner most personalities of the two women: â€Å"People tried to buy us breakfast every morning, desperate to practice their English. Chris loved all that, talking in a drawl about the Houses of Parliament and London Our Capital. It’s Edinburgh his bloody capital only he didn’t want to risk saying that and have them think he was less important than they thought.† Cassie cannot understand the need to â€Å"talk in a drawl† and deny your heritage, although she continues to refer to Scotland as â€Å"such a wee country†, showing the lack of significance it appears to have. Therefore Cassie experiences uncertainty in her search for belonging not only nationally, as is suggested above, but also finding a place historically proves difficult for her, as is made evident on Cassie and Rona’s visit to a war cemetery: â€Å"The place was full of folk who belonged to somebody but none of them were hers. She had no right play acting or making up sentimental fictions while her pal was busy.† I think this shows perfectly Cassie’s character – she needs to belong yet fails to do so, she strives to connect with people, but cannot seem to achieve her goal. She makes up â€Å"sentimental fictions†, as she has no sentimental memories of her own to reflect upon. Her past experiences with people had a negative effect on Cassie; these experiences break into the present through memories and photographs and have a similar effect to the extracts: â€Å"Rona took lots of pictures. It was one of the things Rona did. Pictures of disconnected non-human things like mountains waterfalls and god knows. Cassie’s were all of people. People and animals but mostly people, smiling and telling lies.† I believe the fact that her photos tell lies not only reveals the untrusting and quite bitter nature of Cassie, but also how Janice Galloway uses oppositions to emphasise the characters’ lack of belonging. Rona and Cassie, although close friends, differ hugely in comparison. Rona is the organised and more together of the two, she is prepared for anything. â€Å"The bag†¦there’d be a box with sticking plasters†¦and god knows. In case. And under that, under that and under that, more seams of predictable preparedness for other in cases. In case.† I think it is therefore strange that Rona (the controlled more ordered of the two) is the one to make the discoveries. For example, the sunflowers and golden dog, also the field of roses found in the dark. This is another technique, which in my opinion is used well by Galloway, she is not afraid to challenge conventional discourses or place ‘spots and stripes’ side by side. This is what I consider responsible for creating intrigue and interest within the novel. Cassie the disjointed and fragmented character is passive in these discoveries and fails to achieve independence. She strives to please the people around her and confesses that she, â€Å"got comfort from knowing I could do something he really liked.† Their dissimilarity in every particular except one, is what makes these characters feel they have no set place within society. It is their wish to challenge the oppression placed upon them by society is what I think connects these two women. â€Å"Somewhere in that murky wee brain of his there’s a major assumption that he’s more real somehow, that we’re there to look after his ego because we’ve got bumps in the front of our jerseys and he hasn’t†¦ He thinks the only reason we don’t collude is because we’re twisted, not because there was anything wrong with his expectations. Heterosexuality is a complete farce, Rona. A CON.† This shows how these two ‘heroines’ are not afraid to stand up and speak against stereotypical views; it is this willingness to create a new lifestyle and whole other way of life that binds these two characters together. The fact that Galloway uses italics and capitalisation shows just how firm the characters are in their beliefs. The fact that they wish to challenge what is seen as â€Å"the norm†, leaves them without direction. They travel foreign countries with out-of-date, useless maps, which I believe reflects the lack of stability and direction they feel in their lives; it is their â€Å"bricolage† approach to life, which produces fresh hope for the two women. This promise of hope is solidified as the end of â€Å"Foreign Parts† approaches: â€Å"I think it’s wonderful they don’t just leave things falling to bits. They put them back together again.† This in a sense can be seen as Rona’s agreement with Cassie’s â€Å"BRICOLAGE† theory; an agreement with the new way of life she has offered. It is Rona’s laughter that closes the novel, which offers hope in this plan: â€Å"It could be going home. God knows. I’ve no sense of direction me. I haven’t a bloody clue. Rona and me. We stand in separate places†¦Rona takes fresh aim, laughing. Defying gravity.† This not only reflects the opposing personalities of the characters but also their rebellion against that which is expected – â€Å"defying gravity† – they defy that which is almost, in a sense, seen as mandatory in the progression of life. These women who were fragmented, jigsawed characters have, by their own selves, began to piece together a new life; a life which defies traditional discourses. Their holiday together has given them a chance to allow self-discovery and has created hope for their future. Janice Galloway’s unique style is what I believe makes her novel, â€Å"Foreign Parts† truly accomplished. The disjointedness of her two characters is portrayed perfectly throughout the book and is essential in relaying the themes â€Å"Foreign Parts† explores. Galloway is dependant on structure, primarily the fragmented text, to reflect the confusion and lack of identity and stability, experienced by the characters, it is this stylish use of structure that holds the key to the novel’s literary success. Galloway’s text closely intertwines theme, structure and character, it therefore proves a difficult task to dissect this novel, but once accomplished it reveals themes which are important and relevant to many people in today’s society. It is qualities such as these, which make this intelligent novel a contemporary and yet controversial success.

Kite Runner Pomegranate Tree Essay

In Khaled Hosseini’s novel, The Kite Runner, the changing depiction of the pomegranate tree symbolizes the changes in Amir and Hassan’s relationship, and is woven into the novel’s central theme of sin and redemption. Throughout the novel Hosseini depicts Amir’s struggle to redeem himself ever since he witnessed the rape of Hassan and stood by as a silent bystander. Amir and Hassan shared a very close friendship doing everything together yet the loyalty between each other was lopsided. Amir could never match Hassan’s unconditional love and loyalty towards him and this sets up the internal struggle in Amir’s mind, because he was sensitive enough to realize the unfairness of the situation. Hosseini uses the pomegranate tree throughout the book as the backdrop for describing key events that influence Amir and Hassan’s relationship. The first depiction of the tree portrays a safe haven but subtle details in the passage point to the events that unfold later. As children, Amir and Hassan spent many hours under the shade of a pomegranate tree up on a hilltop where Amir would read stories to Hassan. Here the pomegranate tree is a symbol of comfort, a place where he and Hassan could be alone sharing the simple pleasure of storytelling. Amir’s description of the â€Å"shadows of pomegranate leaves dancing† on Hassan’s face depicts the protective aspect of the tree, a sanctuary for the two friends (28). The tree and hill are symbolic of Amir and Hassan’s friendship; the tree is rooted in the hill but as the seasons change both the hill and the tree change and so does their friendship. The mention of seasons foreshadows how over time Amir and Hassan’s friendship will be destroyed, in the same way that the rain had turned the â€Å"iron gate rusty† and caused the â€Å"white stone walls to decay† (27). When Amir and Hassan return to the pomegranate tree after the rape, Amir says to Hassan he will read him a new story as they walk up the hill and a sense of hopefulness is conveyed. Amir points out that the â€Å"grass was still green†. Here the green is symbolic of hope and renewal and it connotes Amir’s effort to fix his damaged relationship with Hassan (91). However, when Amir describes that the green grass atop the hill will soon be â€Å"scorched yellow† it also foreshadows Hassan and Ali’s abrupt departure from Kabul, and the devastating impact this has on Amir and Baba (91). Hosseini’s use of the word scorched connotes an event that happens suddenly and is a premonition of worse things to come. Amir is not able to deal with his memories of their happier days under the tree, and instead of storytelling he decides to provoke Hassan to reproach him for his own inaction when the rape occurred. Amir’s ulterior motives – to provoke Hassan and not tell stories – are revealed when he â€Å"picked up an overripe pomegranate† (92) and throws it at Hassan. The overripe, rotting pomegranate is symbolic of a wound that has been left alone too long, the guilt of Amir not helping Hassan when he was raped. The pomegranate fruit itself represents the complexity of their relationship; it is a fruit with a hard skin that is difficult to peel and inside there are beehive-like segments hiding hundreds of red pulpy seeds. Amir is not able to come to terms with his guilt and tries to avoid Hassan at first, but later when he tries to make amends he realizes that for Hassan it will never be the same. The pomegranate also alludes to the forbidden apple from the Bible, symbol of the original sin, and thus it serves to foreshadow the events that are just about to unfold. As Amir hurls pomegranates at Hassan, he repeatedly calls Hassan a coward, but in reality he is letting out his own frustration in the hopes that Hassan will retaliate. He is trying to cover up his guilt for not intervening when Hassan was raped, almost as if Amir is trying to justify that Hassan is the coward and not himself. Once Amir stops pelting the pomegranates he sees Hassan â€Å"smeared in red like he’d been shot by a firing squad† (93). The imagery here represents how deeply Amir’s actions and words had wounded Hassan. Ironically, it also foreshadows the eventual death of Hassan, later in the novel, when he is shot by a Taliban firing squad. When Amir returns to Afghanistan after receiving Rahim Khan’s letter, he finds Kabul under the Taliban regime totally changed. As Amir walks up the old â€Å"craggy hill† from his past he realizes that nothing is the same (264). The craggy hill now represents the destroyed Afghanistan. Amir describes that while walking up the hill every breath felt â€Å"†¦like inhaling fire† (264). This simile illustrates how much pain walking up the hill causes an lder Amir now, although it was something he did almost every day with Hassan when they were carefree children. When he reaches the pomegranate tree, he recalls Hassan’s letter saying â€Å"the pomegranate tree hadn’t borne fruit in years† (264). The barren tree is symbolic of how their friendship was ruined twenty years ago in the winter of 1975. But when Amir locates the faded carving of his and Hassan’s name on the tree, the fact that â€Å"it was still there† makes the pomegranate tree a symbol of hope once again and shows Amir a way to atone for his sin (264). After so many years and so many struggles their friendship was tattered but upon seeing it, Amir finally resolves to redeem himself for the guilt of betraying Hassan; a betrayal that became a heavy burden on his shoulders for twenty long years through his silence and inaction. The changes of the pomegranate tree depict the changes in Amir and Hassan’s relationship. We first see it as the lush shady tree from Amir’s childhood where he and spent countless hours reading stories. Next it appears as the scene where Amir destroys his friendship with Hassan. And finally, it is at the same but now barren pomegranate tree where Amir returns and locates the fading reminder of his long lost friend. Each conflict in Amir and Hassan’s friendship was always on Amir’s part. It was Amir who stayed silent when Hassan was assaulted, it was Amir who tried to provoke Hassan’s reproach by throwing pomegranates at him, but it was also Amir who made the effort at the end to rescue Hassan’s son and his nephew, Sohrab. Like the faded carving, Amir’s friendship with Hassan had faded but never completely disappeared. Amir made the worst mistake of his life but he still had an opportunity for redemption, and that was by rescuing Sohrab from the Taliban and acknowledging him as his own flesh and blood If he didn’t, he knew he would go to his grave with the guilt of the sin he committed in the winter of 1975. While atonement for one’s sin is the central theme of The Kite Runner, the pomegranate tree is one of the main symbols used by the author to show Amir’s journey for atonement and redemption in the book. Hosseini’s repeated use of the pomegranate tree serves as a useful symbol to understand the evolving relationship of Amir and Hassan.

Bag of Bones CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

At first the door wouldn't open. The knob turned under my hand so I knew it wasn't locked, but the rain seemed to have swelled the wood . . . or had something been shoved up against it? I drew back, crouched a little, and hit the door with my shoulder. This time there was some slight give. It was her. Sara. Standing on the other side of the door and trying to hold it shut against me. How could she do that? How, in God's name? She was a fucking ghost! I thought of the BAMM CONSTRUCTION pickup . . . and as if thought were conjuration I could almost see it out there at the end of Lane Forty-two, parked by the highway. The old ladies' sedan was behind it, and three or four other cars were now behind them. All of them with their windshield wipers flopping back and forth, their headlights cutting feeble cones through the downpour. They were lined up on the shoulder like cars at a yard sale. There was no yard sale here, only the old-timers sitting silently in their cars. Old-timers who were in the zone just like I was. Old-timers sending in the vibe. She was drawing on them. Stealing from them. She'd done the same with Devore and me too, of course. Many of the manifestations I'd experienced since coming back had likely been created from my own psychic energy. It was amusing when you thought of it. Or maybe ‘terrifying' was the word I was actually looking for. ‘Jo, help me,' I said in the pouring rain. Lightning flashed, turning the torrents a bright brief silver. ‘If you ever loved me, help me now.' I drew back and hit the door again. This time there was no resistance at all and I went hurtling in, catching my shin on the jamb and falling to my knees. I held onto the lantern, though. There was a moment of silence. In it I felt forces and presences gathering themselves. In that moment nothing seemed to move, although behind me, in the woods Jo had loved to ramble with me or without me the rain continued to fall and the wind continued to howl, a merciless gardener pruning its way through the trees that were dead and almost dead, doing the work of ten gentler years in one turbulent hour. Then the door slammed shut and it began. I saw everything in the glow of the flashlight, which I had turned on without even realizing it, but at first I didn't know exactly what I was seeing, other than the destruction by poltergeist of my wife's beloved crafts and treasures. The framed afghan square tore itself off the wall and flew from one side of the studio to the other, the black oak frame breaking apart. The heads popped off the dolls poking out of the baby collages like champagne corks at a party. The hanging light-globe shattered, showering me with fragments of glass. A wind began to blow a cold one and was quickly joined and whirled into a cyclone by one which was warmer, almost hot. They rolled past me as if in imitation of the larger storm outside. The Sara Laughs head on the bookcase, the one which appeared to be constructed of toothpicks and lollipop sticks, exploded in a cloud of wood-splinters. The kayak paddle leaning against the wall rose into the air, rowed furiously at nothing, then launched itself at me like a spear. I threw myself flat on the green rag rug to avoid it, and felt bits of broken glass from the shattered light-globe cut into the palm of my hand as I came down. I felt something else, as well a ridge of something beneath the rug. The paddle hit the far wall hard enough to split into two pieces. Now the banjo my wife had never been able to master rose in the air, revolved twice, and played a bright rattle of notes that were out of tune but nonetheless unmistakable wish I was in the land of cotton, old times there are not forgotten. The phrase ended with a vicious BLUNK! that broke all five strings. The banjo whirled itself a third time, its bright steel fittings reflecting fishscale runs of light on the study walls, and then beat itself to death against the floor, the drum shattering and the tuning pegs snapping off like teeth. The sound of moving air began to how do I express this? to focus somehow, until it wasn't the sound of air but the sound of voices panting, unearthly voices full of fury. They would have screamed if they'd had vocal cords to scream with. Dusty air swirled up in the beam of my flashlight, making helix shapes that danced together, then reeled apart again. For just a moment I heard Sara's snarling, smoke-broken voice: ‘Git out, bitch! You git on out! This ain't none of yours ‘ And then a curious insubstantial thud, as if air had collided with air. This was followed by a rushing wind-tunnel shriek that I recognized: I'd heard it in the middle of the night. Jo was screaming. Sara was hurting her, Sara was punishing her for presuming to interfere, and Jo was screaming. ‘No!' I shouted, getting to my feet. ‘Leave her alone! Leave her be!' I advanced into the room, swinging the lantern in front of my face as if I could beat her away with it. Stoppered bottles stormed past me some contained dried flowers, some carefully sectioned mushrooms, some woods-herbs. They shattered against the far wall with a brittle xylophone sound. None of them struck me; it was as if an unseen hand guided them away. Then Jo's rolltop desk rose into the air. It must have weighed at least four hundred pounds with its drawers loaded as they were, but it floated like a feather, nodding first one way and then dipping the other in the opposing currents of air. Jo screamed again, this time in anger rather than pain, and I staggered backward against the closed door with a feeling that I had been scooped hollow. Sara wasn't the only one who could steal the energy of the living, it appeared. White semeny stuff ectoplasm, I guess spilled from the desk's pigeonholes in a dozen little streams, and the desk suddenly launched itself across the room. It flew almost too fast to follow with the eye. Anyone standing in front of it would have been smashed flat There was a head-splitting shriek of protest and agony Sara this time, I knew it was and then the desk struck the wall, breaking through it and letting in the rain and the wind. The rolltop snapped loose of its slot and hung like a jointed tongue. All the drawers shot out. Spools of thread, skeins of yarn, little flora/fauna identification books and woods guides, thimbles, notebooks, knitting needles, dried-up Magic Markers Jo's early remains, Ki might have called them. They flew everywhere l ike bones and bits of hair cruelly scattered from a disinterred coffin. ‘Stop it,' I croaked. ‘Stop it, both of you. That's enough.' But there was no need to tell them. Except for the furious beat of the storm, I was alone in the ruins of my wife's studio. The battle was over. At least for the time being. I knelt and doubled up the green rag rug, carefully folding into it as much of the shattered glass from the light as I could. Beneath it was a trapdoor giving on a triangular storage area created by the slope of the land as it dropped toward the lake. The ridge I'd felt was one of the trap's hinges. I had known about this area and had meant to check it for the owls. Then things began to happen and I'd forgotten. There was a recessed ring in the trapdoor. I grabbed it, ready for more resistance, but it swung up easily. The smell that wafted up froze me in my tracks. Not damp decay, at least not at first, but Red Jo's favorite perfume. It hung around me for a moment and then it was gone. What replaced it was the smell of rain, roots, and wet earth. Not pleasant, but I had smelled far worse down by the lake near that damned birch tree. I shone my light down three steep steps. I could see a squat shape that turned out to be an old toilet I could vaguely remember Bill and Kenny Auster putting it under here back in 1990 or '91. There were steel boxes filing cabinet drawers, actually wrapped in plastic and stacked up on pallets. Old records and papers. An eight-track tape player wrapped in a plastic bag. An old VCR next to it, in another one. And over in the corner I sat down, hung my legs over, and felt something touch the ankle I had turned in the lake. I shone my light between my knees and for one moment saw a young black kid. Not the one drowned in the lake, though this one was older and quite a lot bigger. Twelve, maybe fourteen. The drowned boy had been no more than eight. This one bared his teeth at me and hissed like a cat. There were no pupils in his eyes; like those of the boy in the lake, his eyes were entirely white, like the eyes of a statue. And he was shaking his head. Don't come down here, white man. Let the dead rest in peace. ‘But you're not at peace,' I said, and shone the light full on him. I had a momentary glimpse of a truly hideous thing. I could see through him, but I could also see into him: the rotting remains of his tongue in his mouth, his eyes in their sockets, his brain simmering like a spoiled egg in its case of skull. Then he was gone, and there was nothing but one of those swirling dust-helixes. I went down, holding the lantern raised. Below it, nests of shadows rocked and seemed to reach upward. The storage area (it was really no more than a glorified crawlspace) had been floored with wooden pallets, just to keep stuff off the ground. Now water ran beneath these in a steady river, and enough of the earth had eroded to make even crawling unsteady work. The smell of perfume was entirely gone. What had replaced it was a nasty riverbottom smell and unlikely given the conditions, I know, but it was there the faint, sullen smell of ash and fire. I saw what I'd come for almost at once. Jo's mail-order owls, the ones she had taken delivery of herself in November of 1993, were in the northeast corner, where there were only about two feet between the sloped pallet flooring and the underside of the studio. Gorry, but they looked real, Bill had said, and Gorry if he wasn't right: in the bright glow of the lantern they looked like birds first swaddled, then suffocated in clear plastic. Their eyes were bright wedding rings circling wide black pupils. Their plastic feathers were painted the dark green of pine nee-dies, their bellies a shade of dirty orange-white. I crawled toward them over the squelching, shifting pallets, the glow of the lantern bobbing back and forth between them, trying not to wonder if that boy was behind me, creeping in pursuit. When I got to the owls, I raised my head without thinking and thudded it against the insulation which ran beneath the studio floor. Thump once for yes, twice for no, asshole, I thought. I hooked my fingers into the plastic which wrapped the owls and pulled them toward me. I wanted to be out of here. The sensation of water running just beneath me was strange and unpleasant. So was the smell of fire, which seemed stronger now in spite of the damp. Suppose the studio was burning? Suppose Sara had somehow set it alight? I'd roast down here even while the storm's muddy runoff was soaking my legs and belly. One of the owls stood on a plastic base, I saw the better to set him on your deck or stoop to scare the crows, my dear but the base the other should have been attached to was missing. I backed toward the trapdoor, holding the lantern in one hand and dragging the plastic sack of owls in the other, wincing each time thunder cannonaded over my head. I'd only gotten a little way when the damp tape holding the plastic gave way. The owl missing its base tilted slowly toward me, its black-gold eyes staring raptly into my own. A swirl of air. A faint, comforting whiff of Red perfume. I pulled the owl out by the hornlike tufts growing from its forehead and turned it upside down. Where it had once been attached to its plastic base there were now only two pegs with a hollow space between them. Inside the hole was a small tin box that I recognized even before I reached into the owl's belly and chivvied it out. I shone the lantern on its front, knowing what I'd see: JO'S NOTIONS, written in old-fashioned gilt script. She had found the box in an antiques barn somewhere. I looked at it, my heart beating hard. Thunder boomed overhead. The trapdoor stood open, but I had forgotten about going up. I had forgotten about everything but the tin box I held in my hand, a box roughly the size of a cigar box but not quite as deep. I spread my hand over the cover and pulled it off. There was a strew of folded papers lying on top of a pair of steno books, the wirebound ones I keep around for notes and character lists. These had been rubber-banded together. On top of everything else was a shiny black square. Until I picked it up and held it close to the side of the lantern, I didn't realize it was a photo negative. Ghostly, reversed and faintly orange, I saw Jo in her gray two-piece bathing suit. She was standing on the swimming float with her hands behind her head. ‘Jo,' I said, and then couldn't say anything else. My throat had closed up with tears. I held the negative for a moment, not wanting to lose contact with it, then put it back in the box with the papers and steno books. This stuff was why she had come to Sara in July of 1994; to gather it up and hide it as well as she could. She had taken the owls off the deck (Frank had heard the door out there bang) and had carried them out here. I could almost see her prying the base off one owl and stuffing the tin box up its plastic wazoo, wrapping both of them in plastic, then dragging them down here, all while her brother sat smoking Marlboros and feeling the vibrations. The bad vibrations. I doubted if I would ever know all the reasons why she'd done it, or what her frame of mind had been . . . but she had almost certainly believed I'd find my own way down here eventually. Why else had she left the negative? The loose papers were mostly photocopied press clippings from the Castle Rock Call and from the Weekly News, the paper which had apparently preceded the Call. The dates were marked on each in my wife's neat, firm hand. The oldest clipping was from 1865, and was headed ANOTHER HOME SAFE. The returnee was one Jared Devore, age thirty-two. Suddenly I understood one of the things that had puzzled me: the generations which didn't seem to match up. A Sara Tidwell song came to mind as I crouched there on the pallets with my lantern shining down on that old-timey type. It was the ditty that went The old folks do it and the young folks, too / And the old folks show the young folks just what to do . . . By the time Sara and the Red-Tops showed up in Castle County and settled on what became known as Tidwell's Meadow, Jared Devore would have been sixty-seven or -eight. Old but still hale. A veteran of the Civil War. The sort of older man younger men might look up to. And Sara's song was right the old folks show the young folks just what to do. What exactly had they done? The clippings about Sara and the Red-Tops didn't tell. I only skimmed them, anyway, but the overall tone shook me, just the same. I'd describe it as unfailing genial contempt. The Red-Tops were ‘our Southern blackbirds' and ‘our rhythmic darkies.' They were ‘full of dusky good-nature.' Sara herself was ‘a marvelous figure of a Negro woman with broad nose, full lips, and noble brow' who ‘fascinated men-folk and women-folk alike with her animal high spirits, flashing smile, and raucous laugh.' They were, God keep us and save us, reviews. Good ones, if you didn't mind being called full of dusky good-nature. I shuffled through them quickly, looking for anything about the circumstances under which ‘our Southern blackbirds' had left. I found nothing. What I found instead was a clipping from the Call marked July 19th (go down nineteen, I thought), 1933. The headline read VETERAN GUIDE, CARETAKER, CANNOT SAVE DAUGHTER. According to the story, Fred Dean had been fighting the wildfires in the eastern part of the TR with two hundred other men when the wind had suddenly changed, menacing the north end of the lake, which had previously been considered safe. At that time a great many local people had kept fishing and hunting camps up there (this much I knew myself). The community had had a general store and an actual name, Halo Bay. Fred's wife, Hilda, was there with the Dean twins, William and Carla, age three, while her husband was off eating smoke. A good many other wives and kids were in Halo Bay, as well. The fires had come fast when the wind changed, the paper said ‘like marching explosions.' They jumped the only firebreak the men had left in that direction and headed for the far end of the lake. At Halo Bay there were no men to take charge, and apparently no women able or willing to do so. They panicked instead, racing to load their cars with children and camp possessions, clogging the one road out with their vehicles. Eventually one of the old cars or trucks broke down and as the fires roared closer, running through woods that hadn't seen rain since late April, the women who'd waited found their way out blocked. The volunteer firefighters came to the rescue in time, but when Fred Dean got to his wife, one of a party of women trying to push a balky stalled Ford coupe out of the road, he made a terrible discovery. Billy lay on the floor in the back of the car, fast asleep, but Carla was missing. Hilda had gotten them both in, all right they had been on the back seat, holding hands just as they always did. But at some point, after her brother had crawled onto the floor and dozed off and while Hilda was stuffing a few last items into the trunk, Carla must have remembered a toy or a doll and returned to the cottage to get it. While she was doing that, her mother had gotten into their old Desoto and driven away without rechecking the babies. Carla Dean was either still in the cottage at Halo Bay or making her way up the road on foot. Either way the fires would run her down. The road was too narrow to get a vehicle turned around and too blocked to get one of those pointed in the right direction through the crush. So Fred Dean, hero that he was, set off on the run toward the smoke-blackened horizon, where bright ribbons of orange had already begun to shine through. The wind-driven fire had crowned and raced to meet him like a lover. I knelt on the pallets, reading this by the glow of my lantern, and all at once the smell of fire and burning intensified. I coughed . . . and then the cough was choked off by the iron taste of water in my mouth and throat. Once again, this time kneeling in the storage area beneath my wife's studio, I felt as if I were drowning. Once again I leaned forward and retched up nothing but a little spit. I turned and saw the lake. The loons were screaming on its hazy surface, making their way toward me in a line, beating their wings against the water as they came. The blue of the sky had been blotted out. The air smelled of charcoal and gunpowder. Ash had begun to sift down from the sky. The eastern verge of Dark Score was in flames, and I could hear occasional muffled reports as hollow trees exploded. They sounded like depth charges. I looked down, wanting to break free of this vision, knowing that in another moment or two it wouldn't be anything so distant as a vision but as real as the trip Kyra and I had made to the Fryeburg Fair. Instead of a plastic owl with gold-ringed eyes, I was looking at a child with bright blue ones. She was sitting on a picnic table, holding out her chubby arms and crying. I saw her as clearly as I saw my own face in the mirror each morning when I shaved. I saw she was about Kyra's age but much plumper, and her hair is black instead of blonde. Her hair is the shade her brother's will remain until it finally begins to go gray in the impossibly distant summer of 1998, a year she will never see unless someone gets her out of this hell. She wears a white dress and red knee-stockings and she holds her arms out to me, calling Daddy, Daddy. I start toward her and then there is a blast of organized heat that tears me apart for a moment I am the ghost here, I realize, and Fred Dean has just run right through me. Daddy, she cries, but to him, not me. Daddy! and she hugs him, unmindful of the soot smearing her white silk dress and her chubby face as he kisses her and more soot begins to fall and the loons beat their way in toward shore, seeming to weep in shrill lamentation. Daddy the fire is coming! she cries as he scoops her into his arms. I know, be brave, he says. We're gonna be all right, sugarplum, but you have to be brave. The fire isn't just coming,' it has come. The entire east end of Halo Bay is inflames and now they're moving this way, eating one by one the little cabins where the men like to lay up drunk in hunting season and ice-fishing season. Behind Al LeRoux's, the washing Marguerite hung out that morning is in flames, pants and dresses and underwear burning on lines which are themselves strings of fire. Leaves and bark shower down,' a burning ember touches Carla's neck and she shrieks with pain. Fred slaps it away as he carries her down the slope of land to the water. Don't do it! I scream. I know all this is beyond my power to change, but I scream at him anyway, try to change it anyway. Fight it! For Christ's sake, fight it! Daddy, who is that man? Carla asks, and points at me as the green-shingled roof of the Dean place catches fire. Fred glances toward where she is pointing, and in his face I see a spasm of guilt. He knows what he's doing, that's the terrible thing way down deep he knows exactly what he is doing here at Halo Bay where The Street ends. He knows and he's afraid that someone will witness his work. But he sees nothing. Or does he? There is a momentary doubtful widening of the eyes as if he does spy something a dancing helix of air, perhaps. Or does feel me? Is that it? Does he feel a momentary cold draft in all this heat? One that feels like protesting hands, hands that would restrain if they only had substance? Then he looks away,' then he is wading into the water beside the Deans' stub of a dock. Fred! I scream. For God's sake, man, look at her! Do you think your wife put her in a white silk dress by accident? Is that anyone's idea of a play-dress? Daddy, why are we going in the water? she asks. To get away from the fire, sugarplum. Daddy, I can't swim! You won't have to, he replies, and what a chill I feel at that! Because it's no lie she won't have to swim, not now, not ever. And at least Fred's way will be more merciful than Normal Auster's when Normal's turn comes more merciful than the squalling handpump, the gallons of freezing water. Her white dress floats around her like a lily. Her red stockings shimmer in the water. She hugs his neck tightly and now they are among the fleeing loons,' the loons spank the water with their powerful wings, churning up curds of jam and staring at the man and the girl with their distraught red eyes. The air is heavy with smoke and the sky is gone. I stagger after them, wading I can feel the cold of the water, although I don't splash and leave no wake. The eastern and northern edges of the lake are both on fire now there is a burning crescent around us as Fred Dean wades deeper with his daughter, carrying her as if to some baptismal rite. And still he tells himself he is trying to save her, only to save her, just as all her life Hilda will tell herself that the child just wandered back to the cottage to look for a toy, that she was not left behind on purpose, left in her white dress and red stockings to be found by her father, who once did something unspeakable. This is the past, th is is the Land of Ago, and here the sins of the fathers are visited on the children, even unto the seventh generation, which is not yet. He takes her deeper and she begins to scream. Her screams mingle with the screams of the loons until he stops the sound with a kiss upon her terrified mouth. ‘Love you, Daddy loves his sugarplum,' he says, and then lowers her. It is to be a full-immersion baptism, then, except there is no shorebank choir singing ‘Shall We Gather at the River' and no one shouting Hallelujah! and he is not letting her come back up. She struggles furiously in the white bloom of her sacrificial dress, and after a moment he cannot bear to watch her,' he looks across the lake instead, to the west where the fire hasn't yet touched (and never will), to the west where skies are still blue. Ash sifts around him like black rain and the tears pour out of his eyes and as she struggles furiously beneath his hands, trying to free herself from his drowning grip, he tells himself It was an accident, just a terrible accident, I took her out in the lake because it was the only place I could take her, the on ly place left, and she panicked, she started to struggle, she was all wet and all slippery and I lost my good hold on her and then I lost any hold on her and then I forget I'm a ghost. I scream ‘Kia! Hold on, Ki!' and dive. I reach her, I see her terrified face, her bulging blue eyes, her rosebud of a mouth which is trailing a silver line of bubbles toward the surface where Fred stands in water up to his neck, holding her down while he tells himself over and over that he was trying to save her, it was the only way, he was trying to save her, it was the only way. I reach for her, again and again I reach for her, my child, my daughter, my Kia (they are all Kia, the boys as well as the girls, all my daughter), and each time my arms go through her. Worse oh, far worse is that now she is reaching for ‘me', her dappled arms floating out, begging for rescue. Her groping hands melt through mine. I cannot touch, because now I am the ghost. I am the ghost and as her struggles weaken I realize that I can't I can't oh I couldn't breathe I was drowning. I doubled over, opened my mouth, and this time a great spew of lake-water came out, soaking the plastic owl which lay on the pallet by my knees. I hugged the JO'S NOTIONS box to my chest, not wanting the contents to get wet, and the movement triggered another retch. This time cold water poured from my nose as well as my mouth. I dragged in a deep breath, then coughed it out. ‘This has got to end,' I said, but of course this was the end, one way or the other. Because Kyra was last. I climbed up the steps to the studio and sat on the littered floor to get my breath. Outside, the thunder boomed and the rain fell, but I thought the storm had passed its peak of fury. Or maybe I only hoped. I rested with my legs hanging down through the trap there were no more ghosts here to touch my ankles, I don't know how I knew that but I did and stripped off the rubber bands holding the steno notebooks together. I opened the first one, paged through it, and saw it was almost filled with Jo's handwriting and a number of folded typed sheets (Courier type, of course), single-spaced: the fruit of all those clandestine trips down to the TR during 1993 and 1994. Fragmentary notes, for the most part, and transcriptions of tapes which might still be down below me in the storage space somewhere. Tucked away with the VCR or the eight-track player, perhaps. But I didn't need them. When the time came if the time came I was sure I'd find most of the story here. What had happened, who had done it, how it was covered up. Right now I didn't care. Right now I only wanted to make sure that Kyra was safe and stayed safe. There was only one way to do that. Lye stille. I attempted to slip the rubber bands around the steno books again, and the one I hadn't looked at slipped out of my wet hand and fell to the floor. A torn slip of green paper fell out. I picked it up and saw this: For a moment I came out of that strange and heightened awareness I'd been living in; the world fell back into its accustomed dimensions. But the colors were all too strong, somehow, objects too emphatically present. I felt like a battlefield soldier suddenly illuminated by a ghastly white flare, one that shows everything. My father's people had come from The Neck, I had been right about that much; my great-grandfather according to this was James Noonan, and he had never shit in the same pit as Jared Devore. Max Devore had either been lying when he said that to Mattie . . . or misinformed . . . or simply confused, the way folks often get confused when they reach their eighties. Even a fellow like Devore, who had stayed mostly sharp, wouldn't have been exempt from the occasional nick in his edge. And he hadn't been that far off at that. Because, according to this little scratch of a chart, my great-grandfather had had an older sister, Bridget. And Bridget had married Benton Auster. My finger dropped down a line, to Harry Auster. Born of Benton and Bridget Noonan Auster in the year 1885. ‘Christ Jesus,' I whispered. ‘Kenny Auster's grandfather was my granduncle. And he was one of them. Whatever they did, Harry Auster was one of them. That's the connection.' I thought of Kyra with sudden sharp terror. She had been up at the house by herself for nearly an hour. How could I have been so stupid? Anyone could have come in while I was under the studio. Sara could have used anyone to I realized that wasn't true. The murderers and the child victims had all been linked by blood, and now that blood had thinned, that river had almost reached the sea. There was Bill Dean, but he was staying well away from Sara Laughs. There was Kenny Auster, but Kenny had taken himself and his family off to Taxachusetts. And Ki's closest blood relations mother, father, grandfather were all dead. Only I was left. Only I was blood. Only I could do it. Unless I bolted back up to the house as fast as I could, slipping and sliding my way along the soaked path, desperate to make sure she was all right. I didn't think Sara could hurt Kyra herself, no matter how much of that old-timer vibe she had to draw on . . . but what if I was wrong? What if I was wrong?