tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27522889519059078832024-03-05T12:10:51.683-05:00On the menu at Joe'sAuthor Joe P. Attanasio blogs about Poetry, Life, Writing, Indie Publishing, Role playing games and going to war in Vietnam, His novels are showcased here as well.
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-8181892714417440612020-01-03T13:51:00.001-05:002020-01-03T13:51:26.886-05:00New Novel - Fallon - A Crime Drama<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Fallon - A Crime Drama</h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">My latest novel just went live in Kindle format and paperback.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Fallon – A crime novel. The story begins with the murder of a young couple on vacation in Fallon, Nevada. The cousin of one of the victims, Matt Barton, who has been working as a detective since retiring from the Military Police rushes to the scene. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">A series of events unfold during his investigation that unlocks a fifty-year old mystery. Matt's friendship with a local Sheriff deputy proves invaluable in discovering the truth.</span></div>
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Kindle Version:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083F8KN1C">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083F8KN1C</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk28951809">Paperback Version:</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1652350519">https://www.amazon.com/dp/1652350519</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-38751839577587244552019-11-05T16:06:00.001-05:002019-11-05T16:08:07.998-05:00<h2>
<b><br /></b><b>Author - Book sale and signing, November 16, 2019</b></h2>
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I will be featured along with 17 other authors at the Newfane Library Event in Newfane, New York on Saturday, November 16, 2019. Here is a link to their website:<br />
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<a href="http://newfanelibrary.org/newfane/">http://newfanelibrary.org/newfane/</a><br />
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Hope to see some of you there.<br />
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<br />Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-60942605781686888692018-09-28T15:43:00.000-04:002018-09-28T15:43:01.683-04:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Sea Squirt Secret</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My latest novel, Sea Squirt Secret, a mystery went live today. It takes place in and around Buffalo New York in 1972. It has a lot of similarities to the popular Cozy Mysteries, but I'm not calling it a Cozy. There is no sex or violence and the mystery is solved by an amateur. The book is suitable for all ages, I recommend 13 years and up. At only about 50,000 words, it is a short read. </span><div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This novel is available at Amazon in print and kindle formats. Here is a link to my author's page where the book can be purchased.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00954GOP2">https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00954GOP2</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is next for me? I like trying new things and decided to try a memoir of my life based around some of my favorite stories. I may or may not decide to publish this one. I really won't know until I am finished.</span></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-25564935978941120412017-09-21T18:55:00.001-04:002017-09-22T22:57:08.812-04:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b>An interview with
Frank P. Riga about his first book, </b></h2>
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<b>Beppo – A Calabrian Tale.</b></h2>
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I am interviewing my ‘late in life’ friend and most
interesting person. Frank P. Riga. He is a retired college English professor,
who waited until he retired to tackle his first novel. To say Frank is an avid
reader is an understatement. He has been a passionate reader all his life. What
inspired him to finally write a book of his own? I hope this interview will
give some insight into that question.
With his second book half written and his eye on a possible third book, I
think it is safe to assume writing has become his late in life passion. Frank, like many of his generation, is not on
Facebook or Social media. I’m sharing this interview, to share his story. Feel
free to comment and share. Here is a link to Frank’s Author page on Amazon:<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Frank-P.-Riga/e/B001KI7GLM/"><b>https://www.amazon.com/Frank-P.-Riga/e/B001KI7GLM/</b></a></span><br />
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Q. Tell us a little about yourself Frank.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. I was born in
Buffalo, New York to Italian parents who emigrated from Calabria. Now retired, I taught in the English
Department of Canisius College where I also directed the Graduate Scholarship
Office. My area of specialty was
nineteenth century British literature, but I also taught courses in Shakespeare
and children’s literature. My articles
appear in several scholarly journals and include essays on Shakespeare, C. S.
Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, Jean Rhys, Giuseppe Lampedusa, and others. My library reference book, <i>The Index to the London Magazine</i>,
appeared in 1977. A few of my poems and
short fictions have been published in several periodicals and collections. I am particularly pleased with my articles on
Christmas traditions, which include Santa Claus, La Befana, the Magi, and the
creche.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. You have recently
published the novel, ‘Beppo, A Calabrian Tale’. It is available in both print and digital
format. What is it about?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. In brief, my novel
is the story of Beppo Cordiale who was born in a small village in the
Aspromonte in Calabria. The year is
1901, and Beppo plans changes that would improve the lives of his fellow
villagers. His efforts are thwarted by a
greedy and ruthless adversary who falsely accuses him of attempted murder and
has him convicted during a corrupt trial.
Escaping prison, Beppo meets with Giuseppe Musolino, the famous
Calabrian bandit and vendettist, and discovers the difference between vendetta
revenge and justice. Further
complications force him and his new wife, Rose, to emigrate to America.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Have you always
had the urge to create a story, or did the desire come late in life? <o:p></o:p></div>
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A. It began it when I was two or three months shy
of my eightieth birthday. I made an attempt in my early twenties to write an
academic satire, and when I finished it, I put it away somewhere and haven’t
looked at it since. During my long life,
I did publish some short pieces, but <i>Beppo</i>
is my first novel. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span>What inspired you to tackle the daunting task of writing a novel? <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A. Beppo was inspired
indirectly. Reading a biography of
Giuseppe Musolino, the Calabrian vendettist, triggered memories, some vague and
others clear, of growing up in a more or less traditional Calabrian
family. Beppo then found his way into my
writing. I began with the intention of
writing a fictive biography of Musolino, but after a few pages of composition, my
true subject took over. I wanted to
celebrate the place in Italy of my parent’s origin and to counteract the notion
that Italians are all inspired by Mafiosi.
I think <i>The Godfather</i> is a
very fine book, for example, but Italians are too much associated with that
kind of life. To write a fictive
biography of Musolino would have reinforced that stereotype. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Did you discard Musolino entirely to avoid the Mafia
stereotype?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. I kept Musolino in
the novel as a contrast to Beppo. As I
wrote, I made continuous references to Musolino, who appears in the novel at
one point, and to Renzo Tramaglino, the hero of Manzoni’s great novel <i>I Promessi Sposi</i>. These allusions center my novel’s principal
theme, the search for justice in a world where justice is hard to come by. Both Renzo and Musolino are unjustly
condemned in a system of justice corrupted by powerful, selfish interests. My Beppo, too, is unjustly convicted of a
crime, but he refuses the vendetta and waits for the courts to exonerate him. He then must suffer the consequences of his
decision. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Do you write more
by logic or intuition, or some combination of the two? <o:p></o:p></div>
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A. Having done some writing in scholarship and criticism
before my late attempt at fiction, I should be guilty of careful preparation
and extensive research in the writing of <i>Beppo.</i> That’s not what happened. After discarding the Musolino temptation,
which, I think, would have required more logical preparation than intuition, I
found that I had a story arc and a good feel for the characters I should
develop. Some incidents came with the
narrative outline but not where they’d fit in.
As I began writing, the unfolding narrative determined the direction I
would take, but a sense of reasonable control was always alive in my mind. Curiously, if <i>Beppo</i> is a historic fiction, history came with the territory. In the writing, it was incidental—necessary
to the time and place, but of secondary concern for the characters and their
story. As a writer of fiction, then, I
would say my intuition was guided by my reason and emotions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Who is your
favorite among your characters?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. I really don’t have a favorite character in <i>Beppo.</i> The hero is an honorable man,
perhaps a bit innocent, and I love Rose, his soon-to-be wife. Ciccio embodies the best of friendship. Their interaction within the warmth and
concern of the Cordiale home creates, I hope, a moving ensemble that draws the
affection of the reader.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. What scenes did you enjoy writing the most?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. There are a number
of scenes that I thought worked well. My
selection may give away too much, if not of the novel, then of the writer. If I had to choose, I’d say my favorite
scenes deal with love making and food.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Having read Beppo’s story, I would have to agree. The
love making and food scenes were both tastefully done. What age group would you recommend this book
to?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. I wrote <i>Beppo</i>
as an adult for adults. I didn’t intend
to scandalize or shock my readers, although the love scenes may be too frank
for some and the scenes of violence too graphic. In these instances, I wanted to give
sufficient detail to enhance the episode, but not so much as to invite
voyeurism.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. What was the most difficult part of the writing
process? How did you resolve this
problem?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. The funniest part
of the writing process for me was the writing itself. Perhaps a better phrase would be ‘the oddest
part.’ When I sat down to write, I
sometimes hadn’t any idea of where I was to go.
Yet invariably, the scene or incident would present itself. There was one curious thing that I think
happens to many people. I would
occasionally go to bed with some unresolved narrative difficulty. When I woke in the morning, the solution was
in my mind—usually something simple.
It’s strange, but once involved in the process of writing, the mind
doesn’t seem to want to let go, even in sleep.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. Do you take time off when you finish a book or do you get
right back at it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. When I completed <i>Beppo</i>, I thought I’d rest a while, let
my imagination wander a bit. I had some
idea for a second Beppo volume, but I didn’t think I was in hurry to begin
it. The rest period turned out to be
brief. As my imagination engaged the
second Beppo book, the images and story line demanded words on paper. I’m currently writing the second volume,
tentatively entitled, <i>Beppo’s America: An
Immigrant Tale.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Q. What do you hope people will take with them, after
reading your story?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A. I hope people will
read <i>Beppo</i> for its evocation of
Calabria at the turn of the twentieth century, for its concentration on family,
friendship, and young love, and for the refusal of a good man to take up the
unjust ways of those who oppress him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you for your time Frank. I have read and reviewed
stories from many of my writer friends. If I can’t give a book at least three
stars, I don’t review it. I never pad a review. I just say what is in my heart.
My honest review of ‘Beppo – A Calabrian Tale’ was not allowed on Amazon
because of our friendship. I would like to include it here. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Beppo - A Calabrian Tale
<span style="font-family: "ms gothic"; mso-bidi-font-family: "MS Gothic";">★★★★★</span> from Joe P. Attanasio on April 8, 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
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The kind of story you think back on after reading, most
enjoyable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This book transported me to a small farming town in southern
Italy just after the turn of the twentieth century. The living was simple by
today’s standards, but life was not easy. This romantic tale deals with ideals,
as well as revenge and justice. I found this a compelling read because of the
human aspect. The struggles presented in this story, combined with the ideology
of the protagonist, made for an enjoyable read. The ‘flavor’ of the times and
the people presented in this book showed considerable research and familiarity
with Italian customs by the author. I like a book that entertains and educates,
I was not disappointed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-9139295770609391692017-01-04T15:13:00.002-05:002017-01-04T15:13:51.947-05:00Democrats vs Republicans - General Differences<div class="MsoNormal">
Politics are more prevalent in conversation today than at
any time in U.S history. Blame the information age, internet, and social media.
Democrat and Republican, left and right, liberal and conservative are common
topics. Politics are dividing friendships and families yet many people can’t
tell you what each side represents or embraces.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I researched many sources to get a general idea of what the differences
are between them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Philosophy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid #EDEDED 1.5pt; border-left: none; border-right: none; border-top: solid #EDEDED 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid #EDEDED 1.5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid #EDEDED .25pt; padding: 5.25pt 7.5pt 5.25pt 7.5pt;" valign="top">
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Democrat – Liberal - Left<o:p></o:p></div>
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Republican – Conservative - Right<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Economic Ideas<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Minimum wages and progressive taxation: i.e., higher
tax rates for higher income brackets. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Believe taxes shouldn't be increased for anyone (including
the wealthy) and that wages should be set by the free market.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<b>Social and human ideas<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Based on community and social responsibility<o:p></o:p></div>
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Based on individual rights and justice<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Military issues<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Decreased spending<o:p></o:p></div>
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Increased spending<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Gay Marriage<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Most Support <o:p></o:p></div>
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Most Oppose <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Abortion<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Should remain legal; support Roe v. Wade. Every woman
should have access to quality reproductive health care services, including
safe and legal abortion.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Should not be legal (with very few exceptions). They
oppose Roe v. Wade. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Death Penalty<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The majority of democrats support the death penalty. Democrats
represent a larger percentage of the opposition than republicans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A large majority of Republicans support the death penalty.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Taxes<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Progressive (high income earners should be taxed at a
higher rate). Generally not opposed to raising taxes to fund government.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tend to favor a "flat tax" (same tax rate
regardless of income). Generally opposed to raising taxes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stance on Government Regulation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Government regulations are needed to protect consumers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Government regulations hinder free market capitalism and
job growth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Healthcare Policy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Support universal healthcare; strong support of government
involvement in healthcare, including Medicare and Medicaid. Generally support
Obamacare.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
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Private companies can provide healthcare services more
efficiently than government-run programs. Oppose Obamacare provisions like
(1) requirement for individuals to buy health insurance or pay a fine, (2)
required coverage of contraceptives.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<b>Stance on Immigration<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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There is greater overall support in the Democratic party
for a moratorium on deporting. They favor paths for certain undocumented
immigrants with no criminal record and five years residency for citizenship. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Republicans are generally against amnesty for any
undocumented immigrants. They also oppose President Obama's executive order
that put a moratorium on deporting certain workers. Republicans also fund
stronger enforcement actions at the border.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<b>Climate change:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Democrats mostly agree climate change poses a real and
urgent threat to our economy, our national security, and our health. <o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
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Republicans mostly argue the climate is not changing and
that Climate Change is a political mechanism, not unbiased scientific information.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-42315384349476337972016-01-03T20:27:00.001-05:002016-01-03T20:27:20.208-05:00Erotica and Erotic-Romance Writers (A brief introduction)<div class="MsoNormal">
Erotica and Erotic-Romance Writers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(A brief introduction)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBghGUnQUJTHdThmRy9c2cxmvMwbZKa2tm-32J1gxy61MY3jDxqaP6IEjFM2U3of83kRpgdDphfw4-1-1FD5QE1UQ2vRaImqgUnhIvFmCtoAfBlI66Pda98SZmamv19hs_e_JD6vprY9Y/s1600/woman-254720_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBghGUnQUJTHdThmRy9c2cxmvMwbZKa2tm-32J1gxy61MY3jDxqaP6IEjFM2U3of83kRpgdDphfw4-1-1FD5QE1UQ2vRaImqgUnhIvFmCtoAfBlI66Pda98SZmamv19hs_e_JD6vprY9Y/s320/woman-254720_1280.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Erotica-Romance
has been a huge market for the last fifteen years. The popularity of kindle and
other e-book readers has made it possible for people to enjoy these stories
wherever they go. They can read whatever they want, wherever they want, without
the stigma of being seen reading a “smutty” book or the embarrassment of buying
one.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Erotica-Romance writers are usually women
writing under a pen name or nom-de-plume. Many of these women also write
“mainstream” literature under a different name and keep the two separate. Many
write in other genres, maybe even children’s books, and can’t afford to have
their names linked with the erotic genre. Some people do it to protect their
careers, like teachers, etc. Some are just too embarrassed to let anyone know
they write erotica.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A number of men assume a female pen name when
writing Erotica and Erotic-Romance. The general theory being if a woman writes
erotica and erotic-romance stories it is sexy, hot and romantic. If a man
writes the same story, it is sordid porn and nobody will read it. There are a
few exceptions and some brave men have quite a following in this market.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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It is
easy to assume that these female erotica writers are young and hot looking
oversexed women who routinely wear sexy clothes and carry blindfolds or hand
cuffs in their purses. The truth of the matter is that many of these are
average women who have husbands and children, a job, a passion for writing and dozens
of other normal social activities. They vary in age from mid-teens to late
sixties and have vivid imaginations plus a strong desire for storytelling. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Erotic writing is
tied to many genres like erotic horror, paranormal-erotica, fantasy erotica,
literary erotica and erotic romance, just to name a few genres. These stories
often have complex story lines and visually stunning scenes of intimacy. The
demands for this kind of writing hone a writer’s skills and challenge their creativity.
Originality and excellent writing is required these days. Sex alone will not
carry a story and make it stand out in this crowded market. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some story
aspects are routinely frowned on by publishers and the general public because
they are considered distasteful. Some examples are stories that involve rape
and sex acts with animals (bestiality) or children in addition to masochism. Some
publishers require authors to portray the use of condoms and safe sex in their
manuscripts. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sex is part of
being human and plays an important role in our daily lives. We are titillated
by it and curious. Well written erotica makes us feel something deep within
ourselves. Something we can relate too, something we want and something we
innately need to complete us and make us feel alive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my opinion good
erotica does not use clichés and fancy names for body parts. It does not use
impossible positions and commercial sex advertising jargon. Good erotica takes
the natural attraction between people and allows the reader to experience it
like they were there. The reader should feel the tension and the excitement as
the story unfolds. The scenes should feel real, not always perfect. All your
senses should be brought into play not just touch. The reader should use their
imagination, influenced by the writer’s words, to bring them to the brink of
excitement. You don’t just read good erotica, you feel it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
****<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David Woolfall, Editorial Photographer and author of Kinky
Books: Female Erotica Writers:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David Woolfall
researched and interviewed many erotica writers and wrote an article on the
subject states that, “In the past couple of decades the industry has “moved
from being driven by men writing under female pseudonyms to a dominance by
women authors.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He goes on to say: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Although many
women are more open about their interest in reading and writing erotic fiction
now than ever before, Woolfall said some stigma remains. Two of the women
Woolfall photographed asked to have their faces obscured: One hadn’t told her
father about her career, and the other said she wanted to hide her identity to
protect her family.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the
authors, Kay Jaybee, said when she discovered her love of writing erotic
fiction, she wasn’t sure how people would react. “I was wary of being assumed
to be a slut. Sadly, many people can't separate the art from the subject matter
– but if I wrote murder mysteries, no one would assume I went round shooting
people,” she wrote in the Independent. “So I largely write in secret and take a
salacious pleasure from sitting in my favorite coffee shop, notebook in hand,
writing down words I'd never ever say, about things I'd never do. Everyone just
assumes I'm either studying, or planning a shopping list.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though the
writers came to fiction for different reasons and write different genres within
the erotica realm, Woolfall said many of the women he photographed are like
Jaybee: essentially conservative, shy people quick to emphasize that their
stories and characters are not based on their own lives or desires.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I interact daily
with a lot of writers, many of whom write erotica and erotic-romance among
other things. Never have any of these people shown me a side of them that would
cause me to lose respect for them as people or artists. I hope this short piece
broadens your understanding of erotica in general and erotica writer in
particular.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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P.S. Any comments can
be left here or on my Facebook page in the post that directed you here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-30798646393249636512016-01-02T14:40:00.003-05:002016-01-02T14:40:46.217-05:00Sexual Objectification of Males Part 5 (final part)<div class="MsoNormal">
Sexual Objectification of Males
(Part5)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> (Final part of blog series)</o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This topic is
full of controversy. Many women and some men think there is no “Sexual
Objectification” of men. I hope to present both opinions to give the reader “food
for thought” on the subject.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am active on Facebook and as such am a
member of many groups containing writers and readers including romance and
erotica groups. I see the men and women able to post sexy pictures of males and
females on a moment’s notice. Because these pictures have to be Facebook
friendly the head of the penis along with the female nipples and mound have to
be covered. Often this is the only thing covered and minimally at best. The
action in the pictures has no restrictions. A man’s head between a woman’s legs
is acceptable if the sexy bits are not showing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Needless to say
almost all the men and women have “hot” bodies by today’s standards. The women
frequently make comments like, “I wish that man would move his coffee cup a
little” and “I wish he would drop that towel.” These are the same women who say,
“Why does every man want to send me pictures of his junk.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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I understand
where they are coming from. Wanting to see what is behind the bump on a sexy
guy model is not even close to unsolicited photos of some perverts penis. I
will leave my commentary for the comments now and share some information
gleaned online.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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--<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>From an article in “The
Telegraph” newspaper from UK: <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Men are now
objectified more than women. From Fifty Shades and Magic Mike to Beckham and
Gandy's underwear ads, men are now the objectified sex. But unlike women, says
Martin Daubney, we don't really mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You cannot move
at the moment for buffed, topless men in the mainstream, pre-watershed media.
Try as you might, you just cannot avoid their hairless, Ronseal-coloured
bodies.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The article goes on to say:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Notable by its
absence was any form of serious protest from men, who, lest we forget, were the
ones being endlessly objectified here. And for that, I will be eternally proud
of British men. Because we’re bigger than all this nonsense. Sure, there were a
few lame-o Meninist groans of “stop objectifying men – I feel violated!” from
dunderheads keen to launch futile torpedoes at HMS Feminism. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But those lonely
howls of faux-protest were drowned out by the sound of collective hand-rubbing,
dental flossing and growling into bathroom mirrors, as hopeful men prepare
themselves for their amorous partners’ returns from girls’ nights out to Fifty
Shades or Magic Mike screenings.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our frankly
tremendous response to all this male objectification hasn’t been “the world’s a
terrible place, I might start a protest at change.org” but a very healthy “Mmm,
what’s in it for me?” and a knowingly cynical “If I look more like these guys
the women swoon over, I might get laid more often <Googles gym
membership>”<o:p></o:p></div>
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So we don’t complain
to Ofcom, or peevishly whinge to Everyday Sexism. We react sensibly – and get our
arses to the gym so they’ll look better in David Beckham underpants. But
there’s somehing else. These days, it’s acceptable for straight men to admit we
actually quite like looking at Jamie Dornan’s body – and Beckham’s budgie
smugglers or David Gandy’s pecs. It's not a sexual thing, because we look at
these men as objects: superior physical beings we’d like to be a little more
like. Straight men thinking more like gays – and that’s healthy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A fresh wave of
today’s gym and porn-obsessed young lads are getting plenty of attention,
thanks to endless selfies. Just over a week ago it was reported that young
Brits, aged 18-30, posted over a billion selfies in 2014 - and men were posted
more of them than women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mark Simpson,
daddy of “the metrosexual” who has written the definitive essay on male
self-objectification, goes a step further, saying straight guys actively crave
gay attention these days, as it proves they can “have” anybody - male or
female. This is objectification as taking power – not disempowerment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Male
objectification is everywhere. This is no more true that in porn land, where
everybody is ripped, hairless and objectified. Men are by far the biggest
consumers of porn, yet you don’t hear them protesting, nor hankering after the
good old days of pot-bellied, hirsute lotharios like Ron Jeremy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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These days, it’s
Daniel Craig who gets his tits out for the lads in Bond movies, as PC
scriptwriters gave the Bond girls lab coats. Page 3 has fallen, the lads mags
are all but dead and it’s Men’s Health’s topless covers we leer at, as they sit
on full display to minors in Tesco.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The fact it
doesn’t even occur to men to complain means male objectification is not only
here to stay, but, much like David Gandy’s codpiece on the side of a
skyscraper, it will only get bigger.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If that’s an
equality of sorts, then thank us later, ladies. The naked truth is: we’re all
objectified these days. Now can’t we just all get over it – and concentrate on
the stuff that actually matters?<o:p></o:p></div>
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--<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Shannon Ridgway is a
Contributing Writer to Everyday Feminism writes:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Can women objectify men?<o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s a question that gets asked a lot in feminist circles.
And the answer isn’t always easy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Viewing it simply, one would think that the answer is yes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because if we define sexual objectification as seeing people
as no more than the sum of their parts and what those parts can do for us
sexually, then yes, of course women can objectify men.<o:p></o:p></div>
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After all, there are women out there who “use” men for sex
with little regard to their feelings, personalities, or desires, just as men do
to women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sexual objectification, however, puts one person in the role
of subject and the other person in the role of object. In heterosexual coupled
relationships, these roles are usually assigned to the man and woman,
respectively.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sexual objectification requires that one person choose what
they want sexually and the other person is required to perform to their
standards.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And this kind of thinking permeates our culture so deeply
that sometimes we don’t even recognize it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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To understand how objectification works, we have to start at
the societal level.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sexual Objectification as the Status Quo<o:p></o:p></div>
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The status quo of sexual objectification places the man as
the subject and the woman as the object.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This idea has been so ingrained in society that it’s become
part of our everyday culture. Sexual objectification is everywhere.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We see it in the form of everyday advertising — companies
use scantily clad female models to sell their products (and we see this in both
men’s and women’s magazines).<o:p></o:p></div>
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We see it on TV: Female characters (even powerful ones, like
hospital administrator Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the show House, M.D.) wear low-cut
shirts and tight clothing, while their male colleagues dress in normal business
attire or loose clothing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It even shows up in our everyday actions, like when we tell
girls in schools to dress a certain way to avoid “distracting” their male
peers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So even though male objectification occasionally occurs
(usually in the form of advertising), we can’t forget the context within which
this operates.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Often, male objectification is done in the form of
tongue-in-cheek references to ads that have objectified women for centuries.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And even if it’s a man being objectified in an ad, he is
usually shown in full form with complete awareness of his presence, unlike
women who are often shown with heads missing or from the back, effectively
dehumanizing them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Objectified men in ads seem to be saying, “Come hither; look
what I can give you,” while objectified women seem to be saying, “This is yours
for the taking.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Reverse Sexism?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even if a man is objectified on occasion, it is not the same
thing as living within its oppressive structure day in and day out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s akin to white people saying that reverse racism exists:
It just doesn’t — because white people have never experienced systematic,
centuries-long oppression like people of color have.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And men haven’t experienced systematic, centuries-long
objectification like women have.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is it possible for men to feel affronted or even demeaned
when women comment on their chiseled chest, six-pack abs, or large penis? Of
course. Just like it’s possible for a white man to feel offended when a black
woman calls him a cracker.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But those instances are not nearly as common, nor do they
contribute to a larger system of oppression like sexism or racism. If we refer
to those insults as oppressive, then we’re reducing system-wide,
institutionalized objectification and racism to petty, interpersonal slights.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Or, as Jamie Utt says in his amazing article “’That’s Racist
Against White People!’ A Discussion on Power and Privilege”:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“We need to recognize that not all hurtful words or deeds
are equal when certain ones are backed by a history and current system of
domination, violence, oppression, repression, dehumanization, and degradation.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Sexual
Objectification and Its Role Within Misogyny:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Not only is sexual objectification part of the status quo,
it also plays a role in the underlying current of misogyny that courses through
our society.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Misogyny is defined in many dictionaries as the “hatred of
women,” but it’s much more complex than that. It’s dehumanizing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Misogyny denies that women have thoughts, feelings, and
rights. It robs them of everything that makes us human.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And when we reduce women to the sum of her parts — that’s
misogyny. We are effectively saying that her thoughts, feelings, and opinions
don’t matter. All that matters is her body.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When we use her for sexual purposes only and cast her aside,
we are dismissing her worth as a person.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This simply does not happen to men — at least, not at the
same level. Because there’s no system of oppression in place for men like there
is for women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Again, that’s not to say that women can’t use men to satisfy
their sexual needs only.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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But it falls more under the realm of awkwardness and less
under the umbrella of objectification and oppression.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So is it possible for women to objectify men?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Possibly — at the micro, interpersonal level.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But since sexual objectification is so intertwined within
our culture and within misogyny, it would be a falsehood to say that it occurs
against men at the same level that it does against women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the end, all arguing, “Hey, women objectify men, too!”
does is distract from the real problem — deeply ingrained, misogynistic, sexual
oppression against women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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***<o:p></o:p></div>
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--<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>From Alexia LaFata<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Oh, the objectification of men.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I hear the cries of sexism already. Men see male strippers
in “Magic Mike,” shirtless photos of sexy male celebrities in Cosmo and 14
photos of hot guys who have great butts on, yes, Elite Daily and proceed to cry
about how they, too, experience discrimination on the same levels as women.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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They immediately go up in arms about how they feel
sexualized, how it’s not fair, and how if it’s not okay to objectify women, it
shouldn’t be okay to objectify men either because that’s totally a double
standard, and that’s totally why feminists are hypocritical bitches and blah,
blah, blah.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Well, I hate to silence straight white males again (I know
you guys have been getting a lot of flak from me for merely existing lately),
but until you live in a world in which your objectification leads to excessive
victim-blaming, unwelcome catcalling, mortifyingly high rates of sexual assault
and rape and having your value in society based exclusively on what you look
like, I will continue to exercise my God-given right to objectify you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Because the objectification of women leads to all of those
things. The objectification of men does not. And that’s why it’s okay to do it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“The Male Gaze”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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There’s a widely-accepted concept in academia called the
male gaze, which is the idea that TV shows, movies, advertisements and any
other sort of media you can think of are specifically created to satisfy a
straight, male audience.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If you’ve ever noticed a movie camera linger a little bit
longer on a female body or advertisements in which women are dressed
provocatively for seemingly no reason, that’s the male gaze at work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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It creates a culture in which men are always assumed to be
the consumer of media. It creates a culture in which men do the looking and
women are looked at, in which men are the subjects and women are the objects.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Since men are literally in control of the majority of media
behind the scenes, the concept makes a lot of sense.<o:p></o:p></div>
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According to a report by the Women’s Media Center, a
non-profit organization founded by Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan and Gloria Steinem
that tracks female progress in the media industry, women only directed 28.7
percent of top-grossing films in 2012 and only accounted for 23 percent of
creators, 24 percent of executive producers, 38 percent of producers, 30
percent of writers, 11 percent of directors, 13 percent of editors and 2
percent of directors in photography of broadcast, cable and Netflix television
shows in the 2012-2013 season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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All of these media industry leaders dictate what stories are
told in the media and how exactly those stories are told.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So, because significantly more men create the stories,
significantly more men control the stories — and, therefore, control the gaze.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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There’s no such thing as a “female gaze” in our society.
Women never do the looking, except when we go see “Magic Mike,” browse through
the hot guys of Cosmo and giggle over which dude has a nicer ass on the
Internet — in other words, except when we objectify you! See how this works?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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How the male gaze works in society<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The male gaze doesn’t just exist in popular culture; it
exists in everyday life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women learn from a young age that a compliment like “You’re
beautiful” means way more than a compliment like “You’re a good person.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Everyone gasps in horror if a woman is called ugly, yet
chuckles in amusement if a woman is called a bitch, as if insulting her
appearance is so much worse than insulting her actual character.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A woman’s appearance is the most important thing about her.
Her worth is based almost exclusively on what she looks like, how youthful she
looks and whether or not she’s f*ckable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Amy Schumer’s wonderful sketch, “Last F*ckable Day,”
illustrates this concept perfectly: As women age — as their skin becomes more
wrinkled, their hair becomes drier and greyer and their body loses its lust
factor — they “expire,” much like milk, medicine, makeup, credit cards or a
driver’s license. Much like, well, objects.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This objectification leads to us not being seen as living,
breathing human beings but as things, as pieces of property, as something that
someone else can take ownership of, claim as theirs and define.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And society doesn’t hesitate to let us know our worth is
defined by someone else — specifically, by men.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because when a woman’s worth is defined by how beautiful she
is and how sexually desirable she is, it’s another way of saying her worth is
defined by how much male attention she receives and how much men want to f*ck
her — how much she’s satisfying the male gaze.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men don’t operate this way. Men don’t live to satisfy a
so-called female gaze.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On a societal level, a man’s worth is defined by way, way
more than just his hotness and f*ckability, so when we objectify a man, we do
nothing more than just make an innocent comment on those two things.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A comment on a woman’s appearance isn’t just a comment, but
a comment on a man’s appearance is<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women don’t live in a world in which a comment on our
appearance is just an innocent comment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We live in a world in which a comment on our appearance is
systematically engrained into society’s attitude towards us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s used as a way to measure our value in society, as a
means through which our entire f*cking identity is defined.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In her piece “You Can’t Tell the Attorney General She Has an
Epic Butt, But Here’s What You CAN Do,” Lindy West gives a perfect example of
what a comment on a woman’s appearance can mean in different circumstances and
how the meaning behind a comment differs between women and men:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you are friends with a woman in your office, you two are
hanging out in the break room, and you notice that she’s gotten a fetching new
haircut, it’s completely normal to say, ‘Hey, Cheryl, righteous haircut.’ But,
say, if you are in the middle of a meeting, and Cheryl has just presented her
quarterly report to the board, it is not appropriate to raise your hand and say,
‘I’d just like to point out the flattering way in which Cheryl’s blazer nips in
at the waist.’<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Can you see the difference? One is giving a high-five to a
friend in a relaxed, unprofessional setting. The other is derailing and
devaluing a colleague’s professional contributions; drawing attention to the
fact that she’s a woman in the board room, not a person in the board room; and
reminding her that her primary utility, in your eyes, is as a decorative and/or
sexual object.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
West continues:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Imagine if every day you came into work, and your boss said,
“Really fillin’ out those pants today, Jerry,” and he never said anything else.
Do you think you’d eventually mention it to HR? Well, now imagine that “Really
fillin’ out those pants today, Jerry” was built, systemically, into the entire
culture’s attitude toward you from birth onward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A man’s appearance doesn’t define him nearly as much as a
woman’s appearance defines her, so commenting on his appearance has an entirely
different meaning than commenting on her’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you comment on the female body, like West says, it can
reinforce the deeply ingrained idea that a woman’s appearance is all that
matters about her and that her sole purpose is to be something for men to look
at (see: male gaze).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The fact that we are people doesn’t matter. Nothing matters.
Except the way a man’s dick feels about us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the contrary, when I comment on the male body, I really
do nothing more than that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I observe it, say a few words about it, and then, since it
has no real effect on the status of who he is as a person, I kind of just move
on.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In fact, when a New York Magazine article asked if men can
ever be fat-shamed, the answer, ultimately, was no.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As Kat Stoeffel writes in the piece, tabloids reporting on
Leonardo DiCaprio’s weight gain did little to affect his identity — his extra
pounds were “no more or less damning than the hideous graphic T-shirts and
newsboy caps he wears” — whereas reports of Jessica Simpson’s weight gain
warranted a dramatic, emotional talk show segment dedicated to her “weight-loss
journey.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s why objectifying a woman carries a heavier, more
noteworthy meaning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you objectify a woman, you perpetuate the idea that her
worth lies exclusively in her appearance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I objectify a man, it’s just… fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And that’s why it’s okay to do it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alexia LaFata<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Comments to above information:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TLDR; Women objectify men, but generally, not in terms of
sexual objectification.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love Tom Morris' answer to: Do women objectify men?, but I
don't agree completely. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The reason? He says it himself (emphasis mine): <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problem isn't the objectification but the fact that
objectification of women upholds a sexist view in society that women are
actually nothing more than sex objects, which isn't something we do for men.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This discredits the argument, because that is the exact
definition of objectification. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
objectify |əbˈjektəˌfī|<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
• degrade to the status of a mere object: a deeply sexist
attitude that objectifies women.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'd interpret this to mean that there is a difference
between seeing someone as a sexual object and objectifying someone. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The epitome of objectification.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seeing someone as a sexual object or appreciating their
beauty, sexuality, etc. is not necessarily reducing that person to no more than
a sexual object. As Tom explained, we as society can see men as sexual beings
without reducing them -- this is not a contrary view to seeing them as powerful,
rich, confident, intelligent, or otherwise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, objectifying someone reduces them to nothing more
than an object, which means that person is not only not seen as intelligent,
powerful, rich, confident, etc., she is not even seen as a person.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some women do sexually objectify men. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, do women sexually objectify men? Not really. At least,
not generally as a group societal norm. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But back to the original question: Do women objectify men?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, definitely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But most frequently, it is done in a different way. When a
mother says that all that matters is the size of his bank account, that is
objectification. When he is being seen as nothing more than an object that
makes you look good because of his job, car, etc., that is objectification,
because he is being reduced to the status of an object.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This objectification happens in a lot of different ways: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
reducing his worth to the work he can do for her (ie:
carrying boxes)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
reducing his worth to the value of his job, bank account,
etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
reducing his worth to how he makes her look (status, car,
etc)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
reducing his worth to something without emotions. (losing
respect for a man that cries, invalidating his feelings)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Objectification happens in a lot of ways, and I think one of
the biggest differences that can be made for "equality" is to also
appreciate all of the ways that we reduce men from full human beings. Men &
women both perpetuate this by pretending there is some list of skills and
abilities and traits a person has to live up to to maintain his "man
card." <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If men get to stop pretending at being the perfect macho
man, they might find a comfortable way to acknowledge that they respect women,
without feeling society will see them as weak.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Written May 27, 2013 •<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Another comment:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In these adverts, it's pretty clear what's going on. Sexy
ripped muscular man used to sell underwear or perfume or jeans or whatever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How is this not objectification? Well, it is. But there's an
important difference between female and male objectification. As someone who
enjoys a bit of male objectification, this may be a self-serving argument.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When women (and gay men) objectify men, it doesn't lower the
man's status. In pornography or in glamour modeling, women lose societal
status. We could imagine a man from a Calvin Klein ad becoming a business
leader or President or having a high-powered job as a top corporate lawyer.
That he can take his shirt off and make people fawn in adoration doesn't really
change that greatly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But for women, the objectification isn't just about the
woman being attractive, but it also changes her status. She appears in
pornography and she becomes a slut, and that's considered a bad thing. Society
doesn't consider women who are beauty models or who sell their attractiveness
to be equal agents deserving of equal respect.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about how this plays out with politicians: during the
2008 US presidential elections and primaries, there was so much commentary on
how Hillary Clinton dressed and on her hair and personal appearance. I don't
remember any similar commentary on how Obama or McCain dressed. We've seen huge
amounts of commentary on Michelle Obama's appearance too. Apparently, how
politician's wives look and dress is considered an important topic but not the
male politicians themselves. Paul Ryan's personal fitness and thus
attractiveness wasn't likely to be considered a matter of controversy like the
women's appearances are. In British politics, there has been a certain amount
of vitriol leveled against Cherie Blair or against Sally Bercow because they've
spoken their minds rather than sat and simply been pretty faces, especially as
Sally Bercow also then posed with a bed sheet for a newspaper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think of women who have been glamour models or even
prostitutes who have also been intelligent people with things to say. Think of
the hoo-hah around the outing of the pseudonymous blogger and prostitute Belle
de Jour as Brooke Magnanti. There was considerable disbelief that an
intelligent woman who had done a Ph.D in forensic science could also be a call
girl.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another aspect to this is when men are specifically
objectified by, say, appearing shirtless in a photo-shoot for a gay magazine,
it doesn't really affect their careers in the same way that an equivalent
female would if they'd posed topless for a lad's mag. David Beckham has been in
plenty of magazine appearances and has been idolised by some of the gay
magazines, and it didn't affect his career at all. Imagine if a female athlete
had done likewise: people would have seen it as tawdry and as a reason to not
take her seriously.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women (and gay men) objectifying men doesn't result in those
men being considered "sluts" and thus thought unable to do anything
other than take their clothes off by society. The harm done is not the same. It
is simply the larger dynamic of the "stud vs. slut" thing played out
at a societal level. If a man gets lots of sex, he's a stud, but if a woman
gets lots of sex, she's considered a slut. Objectification of women thus runs
the risk of putting them into that slut category, while objectification of men
is most likely going to put them into a category that is socially respected.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I guess I'd have to say that both women and men objectify
other women and other men. The problem for me isn't so much the objectification
but the double standards that come with that objectification. There's nothing
wrong with finding someone attractive, and to make it a bad thing to imagine
doing dirty things with that person is really a sort of thought crime and a
denial that many of us are sexual beings. The problem isn't the objectification
but the fact that objectification of women upholds a sexist view in society
that women are actually nothing more than sex objects, which isn't something we
do for men.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This information and these comments are posted to give
information and as “fodder” for debate and comment. Comments can be left here
below or in the Facebook status that directed you here. This concludes the
information portion but hopefully the comments will continue as everyone must
have an opinion about something they read in this 5 part blog series.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-8928818151955831492016-01-01T20:55:00.001-05:002016-01-01T20:55:11.014-05:00Sexual Objectification Part 4 (Porn)<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornography
and Sexual Objectification<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part 4 of series<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pNlLs0578Utdx3b7l363EYr0zwhpD37AcHA5xIk5rQPqqiUVy0HKoz9HEMCqs1exCJGjs4qvTvpuhjuYtWzO9cMDXhDKTk1gHZXiVE7PYoQatAQ4XHSnDIlbJKiNYAa1C7pNAFzzOyE/s1600/porn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pNlLs0578Utdx3b7l363EYr0zwhpD37AcHA5xIk5rQPqqiUVy0HKoz9HEMCqs1exCJGjs4qvTvpuhjuYtWzO9cMDXhDKTk1gHZXiVE7PYoQatAQ4XHSnDIlbJKiNYAa1C7pNAFzzOyE/s320/porn1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anti-pornography
feminists Catharine MacKinnon and Andrea Dworkin take inequality to be tightly
linked to objectification. In the eyes of both these feminists and Kant, there
is the powerful objectifier on the one hand, and on the other hand there exists
his powerless victim. Due to their unequal power, the former objectifies the
latter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In our society,
MacKinnon holds, pornography defines women's role as sexual objects available
for men's consumption: “Pornography defines women by how we look according to
how we can be sexually used. … <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornography
participates in its audience's eroticism through creating an accessible sexual
object, the possession and consumption of which is male sexuality, as socially
constructed; to be consumed and possessed as which, is female sexuality, as
socially constructed” (MacKinnon 1987, 173). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to
MacKinnon, pornography is responsible for both men's and women's conception of
women as objects available for men's consumption.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Covenanteyes (www.covenanteyes.com/pornstats/)
is one of the websites that tracks porn statistics. They also offer a program
to help families monitor the visitation of porn sites on their family computer.
There are other websites that also track statistics and they pain a similar
picture. I will share data from a few of these sites.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By 2017, a
quarter of a billion people are expected to be accessing mobile adult content
from their phones or tablets, an increase of more than 30% from 2013. Mobile
adult video-chat alone will have a compound annual growth rate of 25%.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9 out of 10 Internet
porn users only access free material, whether it be samples of pay material,
illegally copied versions of pay material, or amateur material.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 in 5 mobile
searches are for pornography.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24% of smartphone
owners admit to having pornographic material on their mobile handset.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Porn Industry:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In 2006,
estimated revenues for sex-related entertainment businesses were just under $13
billion in the US. These estimates included video sales and rentals, Internet
sales, cable, pay-per-view, phone sex, exotic dance clubs magazines, and
novelty stores.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
69% of
pay-per-view Internet content market is pornography.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Global porn
revenues have declined 50% since 2007 due to the amount of free porn online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The porn industry
generates $13 billion each year in the US.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
88% of scenes in
porn films contain acts of physical aggression, and 49% of scenes contain
verbal aggression.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32% of adult
membership websites and 58% of free adult websites come from outside the U.S.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Subscriptions:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are higher percentages of subscriptions to porn sites
in zip codes that...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are more urban than rural.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have experienced an increase in higher than average
household income.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have a great density of young people (age 15-24).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have a higher proportion of people with undergraduate
degrees.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have higher measures of social capital (i.e. more people who
donate blood, engage in volunteer activities, or participate in community
projects).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Porn in the Church:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornography is
prevalent everywhere today. In fact, one in eight online searches is for
pornography. Because porn use thrives in secrecy, many church members are
trapped in a cycle of sin and shame, thinking that they're the only ones facing
this temptation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
64% of Christian
men and 15% of Christian women say they watch porn at least once a month.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Regular church
attendees are 26% less likely to look at porn, however, self-identified
"fundamentalists" are 91% more likely to look at porn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Porn and Your Teens:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Never before
in the history of telecommunications media in the United States has so much
indecent (and obscene) material been so easily accessible by so many minors in
so many American homes with so few restrictions."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>- U.S. Department of
Justice:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Research reveals many systemic effects of Internet
pornography that are undermining an already vulnerable culture of marriage and
family. Even more disturbing is the fact that the first Internet generations
have not reached full maturity, so the upper limits of this impact have yet to
be realized"<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Jill Manning, Sociologist<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9 out of 10 boys
are exposed to pornography before the age of 18.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first
exposure to pornography among men is 12 years old, on average.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
71% of teens hide
online behavior from their parents.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28% of 16-17 year
olds have been unintentionally exposed to porn online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20% of
16-year-olds and 30% of 17-year-olds have received a sext.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6 out of 10 girls
are exposed to pornography before the age of 18.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15% of boys and
9% of girls have seen child pornography.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32% of boys and
18% of girls have seen bestiality online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
39% of boys and
23% of girls have seen sexual bondage online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
83% of boys and
57% of girls have seen group sex online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
69% of boys and
55% of girls have seen same-sex intercourse online.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Porn and Young Adults:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Among young adults today, porn use is not the exception. It
is the norm.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'The young women who talk to me on campuses about the effect
of pornography on their intimate lives speak of feeling that they can never
measure up, that they can never ask for what they want; and that if they do not
offer what porn offers, they cannot expect to hold a guy. The young men talk
about what it is like to grow up learning about sex from porn, and how it is
not helpful to them in trying to figure out how to be with a real woman...For
the first time in human history, the images’ power and allure have supplanted
that of real naked women. Today, real naked women are just bad porn.'<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Naomi Wolf<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is also
becoming more common for young adults to make their own pornography. Nearly 1
in 5 of 18-24-year-olds have sent a sext (sexually explicit text message). This
has become a predictor of sexual behavior. Students who have had sexual
intercourse are five times more likely than virgins to be involved in sexting.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
51% of male and
32% of female students first viewed porn before their teenage years (12 and
younger).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
64% of college
men and 18% of college women spend time online for Internet sex every week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
67% of young men
and 49% of young women say viewing porn is an acceptable way to express one's
sexuality.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
68% of young
adult men and 18% of women use porn at least once every week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19% of 18-24
year-olds have sent a sext.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Porn and Your
Marriage:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"I have also seen in my clinical experience that
pornography damages the sexual performance of the viewers. Pornography viewers
tend to have problems with premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Having spent so much time in unnatural sexual experiences with paper, celluloid
and cyberspace, they seem to find it difficult to have sex with a real human
being. Pornography is raising their expectation and demand for types and
amounts of sexual experiences; at the same time it is reducing their ability to
experience sex."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Dr. MaryAnne Layden<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happily married
men are 61% less likely to look at porn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those with teen
children are 45% less likely to look at porn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
68% of divorce
cases involved one party meeting a new lover over the Internet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
56% of divorce
cases involved one party having an obsessive interest in pornographic websites.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men are more than
543% more likely to look at porn than women.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
70% of wives of
sex addicts could be diagnosed with PTSD.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who have
ever engaged in paid sex are 270% more likely to look at porn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who have
ever committed adultery are 218% more likely to look at porn.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Who is Covenant Eyes?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornography use thrives in secrecy. But when others know the
place you go online, the temptation loses its power. This works for adults,
teens, and kids alike.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Covenant Eyes Internet Accountability makes this easy. Just
sign up for an account, install the software on every device you use, and
choose people you trust to receive regular Internet reports in their inbox.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Parents use this to monitor where their kids go online so
they can have proactive discussions about how to use the Internet wisely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adults use this to help them to think twice about where they
go online and to equip others to be effective accountability partners.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
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<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More Pornography Statistics from another site. These seem to
be a few years old circa 2008<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Internet Pornography statistics become outdated very
quickly, especially in the Internet environment where numbers change daily.
These statistics have been derived from a number of different reputable sources
including the sources sited at the bottom of the page. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornography Time Statistics<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every second - $3,075.64 is being spent on pornography<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every second - 28,258 Internet users are viewing pornography<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every second - 372 Internet users are typing adult search
terms into search engines<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every 39 minutes: a new pornographic video is being created
in the United States<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Top Worldwide Search Requests Top US Cities Search Requests<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. South Africa 1. Elmhurst, IL<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Ireland
2. Stockton, CA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. New Zealand 3. Meriden, CT<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. United
Kingdom 4 Chandler, AZ<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Australia
5. Louisville, KY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. Estonia
6. Irvine, CA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7. Norway
7. Kansas City, KS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8. Canada
8. Norfolk, VA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9. Croatia
9. Tampa, FL<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10. Lithuania
10. Oklahoma City, OK<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Internet Pornography Statistics<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornographic websites 4.2
million (12% of total websites)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pornographic pages 420
million<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Daily pornographic search engine requests 68 million (25% of total search engine
requests)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Daily pornographic emails 2.5
billion (8% of total emails)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Internet users who view porn 42.7%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Received unwanted exposure to sexual material 34%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Average daily pornographic emails/user 4.5 per Internet user<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Monthly Pornographic downloads (Peer-to-peer) 1.5 billion (35% of all downloads)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Daily Gnutella "child pornography" requests 116,000<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Websites offering illegal child pornography 100,000<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sexual solicitations of youth made in chat rooms 89%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Youths who received sexual solicitation 1 in 7 (down from 2003 stat of 1 in 3)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Worldwide visitors to pornographic web sites 72 million visitors to pornography:
Monthly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Internet Pornography Sales $4.9
billion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children Internet Pornography Statistics<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Average age of first Internet exposure to pornography 11 years old<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Largest consumer of Internet pornography 35 - 49 age group<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15-17 year olds having multiple hard-core exposures 80%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8-16 year olds having viewed porn online 90% (most while doing homework)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7-17 year olds who would freely give out home address 29%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7-17 year olds who would freely give out email address 14%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children's character names linked to thousands of porn links 26 (Including Pokemon and Action
Man)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adult Internet Pornography Statistics<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men admitting to accessing pornography at work 20%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
US adults who regularly visit Internet pornography websites 40 million<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Promise Keeper men who viewed pornography in last week 53%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Christians who said pornography is a major problem in the
home 47%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adults admitting to Internet sexual addiction 10%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breakdown of male/female visitors to pornography sites 72% male - 28% female<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women and Pornography<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women keeping their cyber activities secret 70%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women struggling with pornography addiction 17%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ratio of women to men favoring chat rooms 2X<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Percentage of visitors to adult websites who are women 1 in 3 visitors<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women accessing adult websites each month 9.4 million<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women admitting to accessing pornography at work 13%<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women, far more than men, are likely to act out their
behaviors in real life, such as having multiple partners, casual sex, or
affairs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Country Porn Pages<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
United States 244,661,900<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Germany 10,030,200<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
United Kingdom 8,506,800<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Australia 5,655,800<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Japan 2,700,800<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Netherlands 1,883,800<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Russia 1,080,600<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Poland 1,049,600<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spain 852,800<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ABC, Associated Press, AsiaMedia, AVN, BBC, CATW, U.S.
Census, Central Intelligence Agency, China Daily, Chosen.com, Comscore Media
Metrix, Crimes Against Children, Eros, Forbes, Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Free
Speech Coalition, Google, Harris Interactive, Hitwise, Hoover's, Japan Inc., Japan
Review, Juniper Research, Kagan Research, ICMEC, Jan LaRue, The Miami Herald,
MSN, Nielsen/NetRatings, The New York Times, Nordic Institute, PhysOrg.com,
PornStudies, Pravda, Sarmatian Review, SEC filings, Secure Computing Corp.,
SMH, TopTenREVIEWS, Trellian, WICAT, Yahoo!, XBIZ<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
©2003 – 2007 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you can probably see from reading the above statistics,
it is important to have a complete Internet safety program in place consisting
of an Internet filter and parental controls.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Content used by permission and provided by Internet Filter
Review. If you do not see an Internet
safety tip that you feel should be included, please email to
info@internetfilterreview.com. If you need a speaker to present on Internet
child safety issues, please email to speaker@internetfilterreview.com.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Internet Filtering Solutions<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our software solutions give you the confidence that your
family is safe on the net. Monitor and protect your computer to keep your
family safe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As usual this page can be discussed here with comments or
through the post on my Facebook page. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-65546242767416629492015-12-30T09:36:00.001-05:002015-12-30T09:36:26.606-05:00Sexual Objectification Part 3 (Advertising)<div class="MsoNormal">
Sexual Objectification and the media<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part 3 of series<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rjbrjBhhC9hjoT9dkcv7M7Sh-pHU7spvsPsA2DvfMieFXsCHndEQzPllCEIXDkBAike0FBj35mosOHdTwhKCCLngONBp1jtxNFFT0jL4WoiovvgEQBuuuh403afXxsFSX4b-6ix2k0s/s1600/ad1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rjbrjBhhC9hjoT9dkcv7M7Sh-pHU7spvsPsA2DvfMieFXsCHndEQzPllCEIXDkBAike0FBj35mosOHdTwhKCCLngONBp1jtxNFFT0jL4WoiovvgEQBuuuh403afXxsFSX4b-6ix2k0s/s320/ad1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The relationship
between the body and sex is unambiguously portrayed in contemporary media.
Conforming to a thin body ideal is crucial to sexual attractiveness. Sexually
objectifying images of women can be regularly viewed across all types of media from
their music and the barrage of images available via the Internet to TV programs
and movies they watch and magazines they read.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although
influences on self-objectification might include a variety of interpersonal,
social, cultural, and even biological factors, an aggressive purveyor of sexual
objectification is undoubtedly the mass media.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women’s magazine
covers often place weight loss messages next to messages about one’s sex life,
implying weight loss will lead to a better sex life. They combine articles about
weight loss with tips to keep your marriage hot. Stay skinny articles linked
with ‘‘What Men Want Most’’ on their covers. Moreover, teen and women’s
magazines regularly feature articles on attracting the opposite sex
interspersed with advertisements for beauty care products and fashion
merchandise. Finally, in television shows popular with adolescents, the most
common sexual theme is that women are judged as romantic or sexual partners
based on their physical appearance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cultivation theory
purports that television teaches audiences to adopt certain ‘‘cultivated’’
views of the world around them, the current study predicts that sexually
objectifying media content can teach audiences to adopt a certain perspective
of the self, one that places primary importance on physical appearance
(Harrison & Fredrickson, 2003).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Extensive
research has demonstrated the negative results of female objectification in the
media. Depression, appearance anxiety, body shame, sexual dysfunction, and
eating disorders are only a few among the growing list of repercussions (Fredrickson
& Noll, 1997). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kilbourne (2002)
pointed out that advertising is a 100 billion dollar a year industry. Each day
we are exposed to more than 2000 ads. Advertising can be one of the most
powerful sources of education in our society. Many women feel pressured to
conform to the beauty standards of our culture and are willing to go to great
lengths to manipulate and change their faces and bodies. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kilbourne
suggests that women are conditioned to view their faces as masks and their
bodies as objects. Through the mass media, women discover that their bodies and
faces are in need of alteration, augmentation, and disguise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition,
women are taught to internalize an observer’s perspective of their own bodies.
This phenomenon is called objectification (Fredrickson & Noll, 1997). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Advertisements
are loaded with objectified women, and only recently have the effects of
objectification been explored. However, the effects of the dismemberment of
women in advertising have been neglected. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dismemberment
advertisements highlight one part of a woman’s body while ignoring all the
other parts of her body. Dismemberment ads portray women with missing appendages
or substitute appendages. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kilbourne (2002)
suggested that the dismemberment of women is a monstrous problem in
advertising. Dismemberment ads focus on one part of the body, e.g., a woman’s
breasts. Typically, dismemberment ads employ female body parts for the purpose
of selling a product. Dismemberment ads promote the idea of separate entities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These
ads overtly and covertly encourage a woman to view her body as many individual
pieces rather than a whole. Dismemberment ads leave many women feeling that
their entire body is spoiled on account of one less than perfect feature. If a
woman has less than satisfactory legs, then her potential for beauty is
spoiled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In other words, if every body part is not
flawless, then the possibility for beauty is ruined. As previously mentioned,
girls and women are conditioned from a young age to view the body as a “work in
progress” or something in constant need of alteration. Instead of being
satisfied with their body as a whole, they concentrate on what separate
entities they lack. Many women compare their bodies and sexuality to the
eroticized images that are plastered on billboards and television and in
magazines and movies (Kilbourne, 2002).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Self-objectification
largely stems from what we see in advertisement. Publishers use magazines to
influence society's expectations for beauty, popularity, and fashion. A recent
cover of Cosmopolitan, shows the guide to perfection. The idea of
"perfection" is shown in the airbrushed model and "how to"
guides the magazine headlines. First off, the model on the cover is seen in a
red dress that shows that she has a very slim body and emphasizes her hourglass
figure. Unlike most women in society, this model has no blemishes, no fat on
her body, and has perfect hair. She is seen as flawless and perfect. These
types of models have always been the face of magazines like Cosmopolitan, and
will continue to be as long as they attract subscribers. The models are chosen
to set the standard of what beautiful and sexy is. It can be assumed that the
purpose of this magazine is to guide ordinary, average women into the ideal
women that they should be.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The headlines of
the top articles say a lot about the magazine as well. "15 Things All
Girls Need to Learn to Do" is one of the top stories that show the nature
of the magazine. The wording in the title is very demanding. The word
"need" shouts out to the audience as a demand; if they don't do these
certain things there will be repercussions. This idea of having to act in a
certain way or do certain things in order to be a girl shows how influential
the media can be on society. The readers of Cosmopolitan, for example, are
being told how to live their life without them realizing the demands given to
them. They see images and subconsciously think that in order for them to be
beautiful they need to act and look a certain way. The models are an example of
this perfection that should be achieved by all women. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The centerfold
syndrome is defined by five principal characteristics: voyeurism,
objectification, trophyism, the need for validation, and the fear of true
intimacy. Brooks mentioned several possible causes of the centerfold syndrome
such as biology, instinct, and survival of the fittest. However, it is
exceptionally interesting to note that of all the possibilities mentioned,
Brooks found the socio-cultural explanation to be the most probable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brooks claimed
that the centerfold syndrome is a product of the way in which men have been
taught to think about and experience relationships, intimacy, and sex. The
widespread sexualization of women in our culture easily lends itself to the
adoption of the Centerfold Syndrome. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men are not the
only ones who have adopted this harmful attitude towards relationships,
intimacy, and sex. Women can just as easily adopt a negative self-image and
attitude, perpetuating the negative stereotypes about women, sexuality,
intimacy, and relationships (Brooks, 1995).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problem is
not that media is showing these objectifying images; the problem is that people
see those images and then start to see themselves as nothing other than a sex-object.
She adds that there wouldn't be a problem if society knew to separate what they
see from how they see themselves. Having your self-esteem based only your
physical appearance rather than your intelligence or personality is the
underlining problem. People need to see themselves as human beings and not
objects. If they believe that all they are is an object and act like an object,
the result is that society will see them as the object that they are
portraying. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Change can happen
if people can try to make the conscious decision every day to promote
themselves as a human with thoughts and feelings rather than an object to be
used. The way society can start to "dis-objectify" itself is to look
behind the images you are seeing and trying to see the underlining story of the
person in the image. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Sexy Lie February 9, 2014 by Caroline Heldman:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heldman doesn't
just describe to her audience what sexual objectification is but she also gives
her plan of action to provide knowledge on the topic and hopefully fix it. Heldman
splits up her solutions into two categories, personal and political action
plans. Heldman's personal plan of action is also split into girl and boy action
plans. The girl action plan included, "stop consuming damaging materials,
stop competing with other women, and stop seeking attention for your
body". <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The boy action
plan included, "be a supportive ally, don't evaluate girls/women based on
appearance, and speak out against objectification". Both of these action
plans are ones that can be done on an individual basis and by any age. This is
important because this speech is aimed at youth in the country and they need to
be able to have the option to make a difference. If the action plan they are
given isn't possible for them to do, it will only lead to discouragement. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heldman also
includes a political action to help aid in change. This action plan
includes,"boycott objectifying media, contact media producers, produce
your own media, and new media activism". <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An excerpt from her show:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good afternoon. Are we having a transformative afternoon so
far? Let’s hear it. Well, I am here today to talk about a lie, in specific, a
sexy lie. I know there are lots of lies. Some of them are sexy, some of them
are very unsexy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’d like to talk about specifically about the lie or the
idea that being a sex object is empowering. I’d like to convince you that it is
not empowering, first, by talking about what’s sexual objectification is, and
then moving on to theoretical and data driven analysis of why it’s damaging.
Lastly, provide you a plan of action, so that you can both navigate
objectification culture, and change objectification culture. Let’s jump right
in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is sexual objectification? It’s the process of
representing or treating a person like a sex object, one that serves another
sexual pleasure. What’s so interesting about sexual objectification is we used
to have a vocabulary for it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the 60’s and 70’s, we were concerned about sexual
objectification and its harm on girls and women. In the 80’s, 90’s, and today,
we’ve actually been relatively quiet when it comes to public discourse. Even
though our sexual objectification culture is more amplified, we see more
images, and 96% of them are female of sexually objectified bodies. We don’t
have a vocabulary to talk about it. In fact, young people I think have even
mostly lost the ability to identify it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New objectification culture has emerged in the past 10
years, and it’s marked by two things. One is an increase in the number of
sexually objectifying ads in television, movies, videogames, music videos,
magazines, and other mediums. The second advertising component is that the
images have become more extreme, more hyper sexualized.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why are we experiencing this now? It can really be boiled
down to technology. New technology has increased the sheer number of images
that you are exposed to everyday. In the 70’s, we saw about 500 ads a day. Now,
we see about 5,000 ads a day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children, those ages 8 to 18, are spending an average of
eight hours a day hooked up to devices where advertisers can reach them. What
do advertisers do? They cut through the clutter with increased emphasis on
violence, hyper violence, and hyper sexualized.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How is this not empowering? I want to make an appeal first
to logic. When we’re talking about sex objects, we’re talking about
dichotomies. In Western thinking, we think of black and white, yes/no, two
opposing categories. When we’re thinking about sex objects, we’re thinking
about the object subject dichotomy. Subjects act, objects are acted upon.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even if you become the perfect object, the perfect sex
object, you are perfectly subordinate because that position will always be
acted on; so there’s not power in being a sex object when you think about it
logically. Beyond that, this idea that sex sells, I like to challenge that
directly because the fact is if sex sold, most women are heterosexual and we
are sexual beings, so why wouldn’t we see half naked men everywhere in
advertising.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would like to propose that something else is being sold
here. To men, they’re being sold this idea constantly that they are sexual
subjects. They are in the driver’s seat. It makes them feel powerful to see
images of objectified women everywhere.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, sexual dysfunction. This idea that sex sells, isn’t it
strange that if you think of yourself as a sex object, and we’re raised in a
society that raises little girls to view their bodies as projects to work on
and be sex objects that it actually gets in the way of good sex?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What tends to happen is that women who are high
self-objectifies actually engage in what’s called Spectatoring Drink-Sex Act.
Instead of being involved and engaged in the pleasure and what’s happening, you
tend to view yourself from a third-party perspective, a spectators perspective
where you’re worried about rolls of fat hanging out, what that leg looks like.
Again, it gets in the way of sexual pleasure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If there’s anything I can pitch to you about why you don’t
want to live in a culture that sexually objectifies, it diminishes your sexual
pleasure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First, Sociological Images, a blog run by Dr. Lisa Wade;
worked with students to pull Abercrombie and Fitch’s padded bras or padded
swimsuits for toddlers. They ran a campaign where they blogged about it. It got
some press coverage. There were some petitions, and they pulled the product
nationally from their stores.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-68485069866807734632015-12-27T12:59:00.003-05:002015-12-27T12:59:54.625-05:00 Self-Objectification (Part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ipfRLoKWSQrZwV7T0A4BK-fYQZ7pvzIVrUB6XQ_ajbjVUhkFoKAUhkyBl6NRpWOeppBIUjPB7QGRr1RlDL7353INky9dB5WhwosDT_AznDBsGOM5X3bTP2PhaA2Fy44gwvLu_L8pqic/s1600/cat-call.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ipfRLoKWSQrZwV7T0A4BK-fYQZ7pvzIVrUB6XQ_ajbjVUhkFoKAUhkyBl6NRpWOeppBIUjPB7QGRr1RlDL7353INky9dB5WhwosDT_AznDBsGOM5X3bTP2PhaA2Fy44gwvLu_L8pqic/s1600/cat-call.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Self-Objectification
(Part 2)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Part two let’s focus on self-objectification.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to
Calogero (2013), “self-objectification occurs when the objectifying gaze is
turned inward, such that women view themselves through the perspective of an
observer and engage in chronic self-surveillance.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Female
self-objectification can best be defined as “regular exposure to objectifying
experiences that socialize girls and women to engage in self-objectification,
whereby they come to internalize this view of themselves as an object or
collection of body parts” (Kroon & Perez, 2013, p. 16)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fredrickson and
Roberts (1997) postulated that self-objectification can increase women’s
anxiety about physical appearance (i.e., fear about when and how one’s body
will be looked at and evaluated); and increase women’s opportunities for body
shame (i.e., the emotion that results from measuring oneself against a cultural
standard and coming up short).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The media influences (dictates) to society what is sexy or
desirable in a man or woman’s body. For example:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men are expected to have small waists, wash-board abs,
muscular arms, hairless chests and a large thick penis. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women are expected to have small waists, full pert breasts, shapely
legs with a thigh gap, a round firm ass, smooth skin, thick luxurious hair,
full lips and exotic eyes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In her book Femininity and Domination: Studies in the
phenomenology of oppression <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sandra Bartky (1990) describes a time where she was made a
victim of objectification:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It is a fine spring day, and with an utter lack of self-consciousness,
I am bouncing down the street. Suddenly I hear men’s vices. Catcalls and whistles
fill the air. These noises are clearly sexual in intent and they are meant for
me; they come from across the street. I freeze. As Sartre would say, I have
been petrified by the gaze of the Other.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My face flushes and my motions become stiff and self-conscious.
The body which only a moment before I inhabited with such ease now floods my consciousness.
I have been made into an object. While it is true that for these men I am
nothing but, let us say, a “nice piece of ass,” there is more involved in this
encounter than this mere fragmented<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
perception of me. They could, after all, have enjoyed me in
silence…I could have passed<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
by without having been turned to stone. But I must be made
to know that I am a “nice piece of ass”: I must be made to see myself as they
see me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sexual objectification means that women are widely seen as
sex objects for male sexual pleasure. This objectification occurs in two areas:
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(1) interpersonal or social encounters, and <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(2) media exposure. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Interpersonal or social encounters include catcalls,
checking out/ staring at, or gazing at women’s bodies, sexual comments, and
harassment. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Media exposure spotlights women’s bodies and body parts
while depicting women as the target of a non-reciprocated male gaze. (Calogero,
Tantleff-Dunn, & Thompson, 2011).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Female
self-objectification has many consequences, including eating disorders, which
are associated with depression. According to National Anorexia Nervosa and
Associated Disorders (2013), up to 24 million people of all ages and genders
suffer from an eating disorder. This site also reports that 5% of American females
believe in a body type ideal, commonly described as “petite” (Eating, 2013). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While this might
not seem like a large enough number to create concern, data show that 47% of
girls in the 5th- 12th grade report wanting to lose weight because they compare
themselves to idealized magazine photographs, and 69% of girls in the 5th-12th
grade report that such images influence their idea of a “perfect” body shape
(Eating, 2013). This paper will address the ways that women are objectified,
the negative consequences of self-objectification and ways to prevent it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Franzoi
(1995) writes that “there are two basic ways of thinking about one’s body that
have a particular relevance to a discussion of gender differences in body
esteem. One way is to view the body as an object of discrete parts that others
aesthetically evaluate, and the other is to conceptualize it as a dynamic process
where function is of greater consequence” (Franzoi, 1995, p. 417). The vast
majority of people tend to view the female body in terms of its form, rather
than function, and “it is this aspect of the physical self that influences
people’s first impressions and forms the basis for the physical attractiveness
stereotype” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Self-Objectification: Contributing Factors Media Influences.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With respect to
how self-objectification is influenced by media, Aubrey (2006) states that,
“the relationship between the body and sex is unambiguously portrayed in
contemporary media, and conforming to a thin body ideal is crucial to sexual
attractiveness” (p. 366). Tolman and Debold (1994) agree, stating that a thin
female body is associated with success and power. All of this communicates to
women that their<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
bodies are important commodities that can influence life
experiences (Muehlenkamp & Saris-Baglama, 2002). The thin body ideal refers
to the European concept of a slender female with a small physique and little
body fat. “Thin-body ideal occurs as a result<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
of social pressure to attain a lean figure, placed on
individuals by the media, family, peers, and interpersonal encounters” (Stice &
Shaw, 1994, p. 289). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The media
displays this through messages in popular magazines, films, and television. For
example, “in magazines, weight loss messages are often placed next to messages about
one’s sex life, implying that weight loss will lead to a better sex life,”
while “on television shows, women are judged as romantic or sexual partners
based on their appearance” (Aubrey, 2006, p. 366-367). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a longitudinal
study, Aubrey (2006) examined the long-term relationship between media habits
and self-objectification, and whether media exposure increases
self-objectification, or whether self-objectification drives the selection of sexually
objectifying media. She found that “exposure to sexually objectifying
television programs is associated with an increase in viewers’ definition of
their physical selves in terms of how the body appears, rather than what it can
do” (Aubrey, 2006, p. 381).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This occurs through frequent and repeated exposure to
television programs, soap operas, talk shows, music videos, and advertising. From
this study, Aubrey (2006) concluded that how long someone is exposed to
sexually objectifying messages is less damaging than how frequently such
messages are viewed over time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Societal Influences.:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Franzoi (1995) writes that “starting at a
young age, from Barbie dolls and toy makeup cases, girls are encouraged to play
with, to the close attention given to clothing fashion and other bodily
adornments, females are taught that their body as object is a significant
factor in how others will judge their overall value” (p. 418). These messages
are conveyed by important socializing agents such as parents, peers, and
teachers. Typically, gender role socialization includes heavy emphasis on how girls/women
should look, and if this is overemphasized, girls may continually seek
reassurance about their appearance to make sure they are socially accepted and
not subject to ridicule or rejection.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fredrickson and
Roberts (1997) find that self-objectification can lead not only to depression,
but also to body shame and eating disorders. They state that “women’s ongoing
efforts to change their body and appearance through diet, exercise, fashion,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
beauty products, and perhaps most dangerously, surgery and
eating disorders, reveal what may be a perpetual and hardly adaptive body-based
shame, which results from a fusion of negative self- evaluation with the
potential for social exposure” (p. 181).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fredrickson and
Roberts (1997) find that body shame arises from “not knowing exactly when and
how one’s body will be looked at and evaluated can create anxiety about
potential exposure. Data further show that women’s appearance anxiety may have
roots in negative early life social experiences, including histories of receiving
negative appearance-related comments” (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997, p.
182). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lastly, they
state that “eating disorders are passive, pathological strategies, reflecting
girls’ and women’s lack of power to more directly control the objectification
of their<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
bodies” (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997, p. 192). Two
feminist thoughts that support this are that women’s concerns with dieting and
weight control reflect their normative discontent toward their bodies, and that
women view eating disorders as a political<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
statement of protest against the patriarchal system
(Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997, p. 192).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Female
self-objectification can also lead to sexual dysfunction, because engaging in
sexual activity involves another person focusing attention on one’s body. During
sexual relations a woman can be distracted by thoughts about her body rather
than experiencing sexual pleasure (Tiggemann, 2011). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wiederman (2000)
found that during sexual intercourse one third of college women experienced
problematic body image self-consciousness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Female self-objectification is something most women
experience at some point in life because society sends many such messages in
many ways, offering an idealized version of the perfectly shaped woman that is,
for most, unattainable or inadvisable to seek. Preventing and treating
self-objectification in girls and women will lead to increased societal rewards
and social powers (Breines, Crocker and Garcia, 2008). The paper offers
explanations for how and why female self-objectification occurs and what can do
to counter its negative consequences in our society.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This information has been gleaned from sources on the
internet and presented here for discussion. Either comment here or on the
Facebook post.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-9251853667678016302015-12-25T11:14:00.002-05:002015-12-25T11:14:43.792-05:00Part 1: What is Sexual Objectification of men or women?<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part 1: What is Sexual Objectification
of men or women?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFut9TIR0Ej435om1HaWm_oeWNpQDPaPU4dRs7luCSLEuQEBluJzqS5NqNHkDxbM7d8LR2SVnKyzVwevEUuserZLSFAz8qWvfbHnGWfX5FmnDPqD6uDaJdvbfQLWWR9y2eTt3ySNMrWfU/s1600/object1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFut9TIR0Ej435om1HaWm_oeWNpQDPaPU4dRs7luCSLEuQEBluJzqS5NqNHkDxbM7d8LR2SVnKyzVwevEUuserZLSFAz8qWvfbHnGWfX5FmnDPqD6uDaJdvbfQLWWR9y2eTt3ySNMrWfU/s320/object1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Objectification
of men or women is the act of treating a person as a commodity or an object
without regard to their personality or dignity. Sexual objectification (SO)
takes this a step further making them an object for a person’s sexual
gratification with no consideration for them as human beings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sexual
objectification (SO) of the female or male body equates their worth with their<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
body’s appearance and sexual functions which is highly
subjective. The person’s body or body parts are singled out and separated from them
as a person and they are viewed primarily as a physical object of male or
female sexual desire and gratification.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Objectification
affects both men and women but to simplify I will use Objectification of women
as referenced in the following study.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fredrickson and
Roberts study (1997) asserted that women to varying degrees<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
internalize this outsider view and begin to self-objectify
by treating themselves<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
as an object to be looked at and evaluated on the basis of
appearance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fredrickson and
Roberts (1997) postulated that self-objectification<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
can increase women’s anxiety about physical appearance
(i.e., fear about when and how one’s body will be looked at and evaluated); and
increase women’s opportunities for body shame (i.e., the emotion that results from
measuring oneself against a cultural standard and coming up short).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This SO often
intersects with women’s other sociocultural identities, such<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
as sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, and social class, to
form unique sets of media portrayals and experiences for subgroups of women
(Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For example,
lesbian and/or same-sex female relationships have become increasing sexualized,
exploited, and used in the media to target some male fantasies of being
involved sexually with two or more women at the same time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, the sexual exploitation and
victimization of African American women from the days of slavery to the present
has led to media images and stereotypes of Black women as sexual aggressors and
sexual savages (Greene, 1994; Thomas, Witherspoon, & Speight, 2004). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In contrast,
Asian American women are often portrayed in the media as sexually<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
subservient, childlike, and exotic (Root, 1995).
Furthermore, women in lower social class positions are often considered gross,
overly sexed, untamed, crude, and deserving of sexual exploitation and
aggression (Pharr, 1988; Smith, 2008).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For example, the
APA’s (2007b) review of studies examining depictions of women in the media
including commercials, prime-time television programs, movies, music lyrics and
videos, magazines, advertising, sports media, video games, and Internet sites
revealed that women more often than men are depicted in sexualizing and
objectified manners (e.g., wearing revealing and provocative clothing,
portrayed in ways that emphasize their body parts and sexual readiness, serving
as decorative objects). In addition, women portrayed in the media are
frequently the target of men’s sexists comments (e.g., use of deprecating words
to describe women), sexual remarks<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(e.g., comments about women’s body parts), and behaviors
(e.g., ogling, leering,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cat-calling and harassment).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many women also
experience immersed forms of SO that occur when women are part of situations,
environments, and subcultures where the SO of women is encouraged and promoted.
For example, certain situations that accentuate awareness of observers’
perspectives on women’s bodies, such as ballet dancing, beauty pageants,
modeling, and cheerleading, are likely to enhance SO (Slater & Tiggemann,
2002).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, many women work in environments
whose main purpose is to offer explicit targets for men to objectify them and
that reward them for treating themselves as sexual objects (e.g., exotic
dancing and cocktail waitressing).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first
criterion for a Sexual Objectification Environment (SOE) is the existence of
traditional gender roles.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gender roles are
the set of behaviors, personality attributes, self-concepts, and<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
expectations organized according to cultural definitions and
prescriptions of masculinity and femininity (Gutek, 1985; Worell & Remer,
2003). Defined in a traditional manner, men’s gender roles are oriented towards
competency, achievement, and agency and include traits such as independence,
aggression, competitiveness, rationality, problem solving, and objectivity
(Bakan, 1966; Parsons & Bales, 1955).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, traditional gender role
socialization encourages many men to be powerful, controlling, and dominant;
see women as sex objects; view sex as a conquest; and believe that women are their
property (Worell & Remer, 2003). Alternately, women’s traditional gender
roles tend to be relationally and expressively oriented and include characteristics
such as nurturance, emotionality, passivity, dependence, and<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
harmony (Bem, 1993). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, traditional
gender role socialization encourages many women to be submissive to men and
fulfill their needs and wants, seek men’s protection, and accept responsibility
for limiting and controlling men’s sexual behavior (Worell & Remer, 2003).
Thus, the existence of traditional gender roles in an environment is likely to
contribute to attitudes and behaviors that allow for and normalize the SO of
women.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The final core
criterion for an environment to be sexually objectifying is the acknowledgement
and approval of male gaze in that setting. As Fredrickson and Roberts (1997)
asserted, “The most subtle and deniable way sexualized evaluation is
enacted—and arguably the most ubiquitous—is through gaze, or visual inspection
of the body” (p. 175). Quinn (2002) reframed sexual gaze as “girl watching,” a
specific, yet subtle, form of sexual harassment that cannot be avoided and is
not under women’s control. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to
Quinn, girl watching is a “targeted tactic of power” where men use gaze to
demonstrate their right to physically and sexually evaluate women. The activity
serves as a form of playing a game among some men; however, the targeted woman
is generally understood to be an object, rather than a player, in the game.
Thus, from a male point of view, “acts such as girl watching are simply games played
with objects: women’s bodies” (Quinn, 2002, p. 398). The effects of male gaze
on women may be intensified by the accompaniment of sexually evaluative
commentary (Allen, 1984). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two other
manifestations of objectifying gaze that may be present in an SOE are the
inclusion of visual media showing interpersonal encounters (i.e., men looking
at women in advertisements) and visual media depicting women’s bodies and body
parts Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>--</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>In subsequent parts this will be further discussed and any points made in the comments here will be addressed.</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> --</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-5049956688394467972014-10-26T14:36:00.001-04:002014-10-26T15:33:37.157-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>As the years slip away…</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By: Joe P Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Time is ever moving at a near constant rate. I state it that
way because of the proof offered by Stephen Hawkins that gravity does in fact effect
time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">How we perceive time to be moving is relative to thousands
of factors. When people get in the latter part of their lives time seems to
pass faster and faster. The seasons and even years sometime seem to go by in
the blink of an eye. As a young boy I remember long summer days that seem to
last forever. Also true is the idea that when you are having fun, time flies,
but when you are being punished or are sick, it can drag on ever so slowly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have another birthday tomorrow and it made me think about
time, hence the topic for today. I have an interesting life (in my opinion) and
enjoy myself most of the time. Perhaps that is why time seems to be moving so
fast for me. I am not getting older by any standards except chronologically (<i>alright physically too</i>!). I
embrace life and the constant change that inevitably accompanies it. I look
forward to crossing new horizons and challenging myself in ways I cannot yet
perceive. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have lived long enough to have personally witnessed many
changes throughout out the years. Technological innovation of course was huge
in the last 66 years. I have also witnessed cultural change growing from many
roots, some good and some bad. I am aware of a trend in self-satisfaction and attention
deficits. I am also aware of a loss in patriotism in general among the younger
generations. I see morality being redefined, some good and some bad. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I always was a passionate person in general. I despise
apathy as anyone who know me has heard me say time and time again. I find I am becoming
even more opinionated as I get older. Perhaps I feel I have earned the right to
speak my mind a little bit more. I truly believe wisdom comes with age, perhaps
not intelligence, but wisdom for sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I find organized religion to be something I feel I do not
need or want. I have a deep respect for people’s beliefs however, no matter
what they are. I believe there is more to life than conception, birth, death
and nothingness. I will leave that right there without getting philosophical. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a wish for the world that all people learn to love
each other at least in some basic way. I will settle for acceptance if love
seems too intimate a word. In the sixties we used words like, “It’s your bag”
and “do your own thing” to signify that we accept each other being different. I
am not just talking white, black and yellow here but gay, transsexual, Arabian,
Russian and South African etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">With respect and acceptance of others, human nature can rid
itself of the ideals impressed on us through the media and replace those ideals
with what we ourselves feel in our hearts is right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I will leave this article with a couple of poems from my
collection: Thanks for reading along as I ramble.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPKp0knNLblb03AwUAigxpdCvdW5SObl9kCal3N8Obnl0zJWJvfYXnpg30oHOXCdkyHKdcU9eL5e6HWW8uUsGi7gN-DTwrih_jePu9H4FAW_YYpsxP1gwh2WjKVhisekuZ0Hj6kD5CVo/s1600/Joe-conan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPKp0knNLblb03AwUAigxpdCvdW5SObl9kCal3N8Obnl0zJWJvfYXnpg30oHOXCdkyHKdcU9eL5e6HWW8uUsGi7gN-DTwrih_jePu9H4FAW_YYpsxP1gwh2WjKVhisekuZ0Hj6kD5CVo/s1600/Joe-conan.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NOTE: On the left is my face on Conan's body taken on my 25th wedding anniversary. On the right is me a few years ago taken for a funny story about the scarf that I will share someday here.</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">One of my first poems takes a look at what a day is and what
it can mean.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">What is a day?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">By: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Some think a day is just a measure of time.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Some think a poem is just a measure of rhyme.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>But each day is a life, complete with birth and death.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Not sharing with others, but standing alone from the rest.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>As dawn is born we have a new beginning, a chance.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>For goals of all sorts; and for romance<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Some days seem long and some very short.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Some are hard, some are restful, all sorts.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sometimes in the morn, we are already dreary.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>As a day draws to an end, we may hold it dearly.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>But one thing is for sure, each day will hold.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>So much more for those who are bold<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The days in the past are written in stone.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The ones not yet here stand empty and alone.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Remember as each day begins to unfold.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>We have a say, how the story is told.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>If you’ve planned a day from dawn to night<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You know, they never come out quite right.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You can enjoy a day fully without any plans.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Just let it happen and see how it lands.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>**<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> Perception<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> BY: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> . <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sensory input, rationalized mentally<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Conjured and intuitive assessment<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><b>Conceptual,
biased reality, imagined<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Mental recreation of fact; perception<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> *<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>We see what we want to see,<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>And hear what we want to hear.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“I can’t believe he was a killer,”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“He seemed like such a nice guy”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> *<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“She is such a slut”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“He is a selfish bastard”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“She is a bitch”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“He is a womanizer and a cad”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> *<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Labels, based on perception<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Judged reality by our assessment<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Shared with others for validation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Of our own ambiguous imagery<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> *<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Our own perception of ourselves<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Not based on reality, but conjured<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Camouflaged by desire and confidence<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Blended with self-esteem and fantasy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>
*<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Our lives are controlled by perception<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Input from our senses processed<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>With semi-conscious assessment<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Always question your perception!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Please check out other blogs from my archives.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-73897441481010417512014-10-20T14:05:00.002-04:002014-10-20T14:05:11.819-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Fake names on Face-Book and Amazon<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>By: Joe P. Attanasio</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I considered writing under a pen name and publishing some
erotic-romance stories. These tend to be short and easy to write and sell quite
well in the marketplace. I have a number of stories already written that could
easily be converted. I would not want to use my given name, as it is associated
with an entirely different genre, and these stories could affect my reputation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to scrap the idea as the perils far outweigh the
benefits. However, I found the topic of using a pseudonym or pen name in both
Facebook and Amazon an interesting subject open for debate on many levels.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to make clear that while I consider using a pseudonym
or pen name for the above reasons I frown on the idea of using one for the purpose
of cross promoting your work or for "trolling" and “defaming” people which
is very rude.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Amazon you have to use your real information Name, Address,
Bank Account, Social Security Number etc. for legal and tax reporting reason
because of the royalties for selling books. Amazon will allow you to use up to
three pen names on the books you publish. Although law enforcement is privy to that
information, no one else needs to know that the pen name is also you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6qnv2dwiVBM14WEz5it6X_egp6rFBj0_8YkrrQNN6S2bXc06G3jzgJBAqKfH3kV6iL55W6hK9dMyq3AKjfg0kkK7x4mXIiNVvgmW1w95P8bT0U0Fujj2C2ppOpal1vEX08o2ozOJ-sw/s1600/fake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6qnv2dwiVBM14WEz5it6X_egp6rFBj0_8YkrrQNN6S2bXc06G3jzgJBAqKfH3kV6iL55W6hK9dMyq3AKjfg0kkK7x4mXIiNVvgmW1w95P8bT0U0Fujj2C2ppOpal1vEX08o2ozOJ-sw/s1600/fake.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook however, has its own policy as stated below.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Here is Facebook’s policy regarding the use of names:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook is a community where people use their authentic
identities. We require people to provide the name they use in real life; that
way, you always know who you're connecting with. This helps keep our community
safe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may be having trouble changing your name if:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your name doesn't follow our name policy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You changed your name in the last 60 days<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You were previously asked to verify your name on Facebook<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can also add an alternate name (ex: maiden name,
nickname) to your profile. If your first and last name isn’t listed on your
account and you’re unable to change it, let us know.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What names are allowed on Facebook?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook is a community where people use their authentic
identities. We require people to provide the name they use in real life; that
way, you always know who you're connecting with. This helps keep our community
safe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please refrain from adding any of these to your name:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Symbols, numbers, unusual capitalization, repeating
characters or punctuation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Characters from multiple languages.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Titles of any kind (ex: professional, religious).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Words, phrases or nicknames in place of a middle name.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Offensive or suggestive words of any kind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other things to keep in mind:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The name you use should be your authentic identity; as your
friends call you in real life and as our acceptable identification forms would
show.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nicknames can be used as a first or middle name if they're a
variation of your authentic name (like Bob instead of Robert).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can also list another name on your account (ex: maiden
name, nickname, professional name) by adding an alternate name to your profile.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Profiles are for individual use only. We offer Pages for
professional personas, organizations and businesses.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pretending to be anything or anyone isn't allowed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If your authentic name isn’t listed on your account, please
change your name. If you're unable to change it, learn more.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What types of ID does Facebook accept?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can confirm your identity in 1 of 3 ways. When
submitting documentation, please cover up any personal information we don't
need to verify your identity (ex: credit card number, Social Security number).
We encrypt people’s connections to Facebook by default, including IDs you send
to us. We delete your ID information after verification is complete.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Option 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We will accept any government-issued ID that contains your
name and date of birth. Examples include:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Birth certificate<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Driver’s license<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Passport<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marriage certificate<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Official name change paperwork<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Personal or vehicle insurance card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Non-driver's government ID (ex: disability, SNAP card,
national ID card)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Green card, residence permit or immigration papers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Voter ID card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Option 2<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can provide two different forms of ID from the following
list (ex: a bank statement and a library card, but not two bank statements).
The names on your IDs must match each other, and one of the IDs must include a
photo or date of birth that matches the information on your profile.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Below are some examples of IDs we'll accept:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bank statement<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bus card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Check<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Credit card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Employment verification<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Library card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mail<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Magazine subscription stub<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Medical record<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Membership ID (ex: pension card, union membership, work ID,
professional ID)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Paycheck stub<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Permit<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
School card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
School record<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Social Security card<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Utility bill<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yearbook photo (actual scan or photograph of the page in
your yearbook)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Option 3<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you don’t have an ID that shows your authentic name as
well as your photo or date of birth, you can provide two forms of ID from
Option 2 above, and then provide a government ID that includes a date of birth
or photo that matches the information on your profile. We won't add the name or
other information from the government ID to your account.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why Facebook wants your name<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook estimates that nearly 83 million registered users
are actually duplicated accounts, spammers, or non-people, like that profile
you made for your puppy. That's a staggering number, and Facebook has
acknowledged such "inauthentic" accounts as a potential threat to its
brand and business. Facebook has also made its effort to crack down on
nicknames and pseudonyms pretty public, allowing users to display
"alternate" names only in parentheses.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no estimate for people who go by a realistic fake
name, although the phenomenon could potentially pose trouble for the social
network that wants to own your real identity on the web.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_izEt4LS-ZuoEvwSokDFBnitdwPXmbsX1Tok5tY3yvScMlhv1MbWaZESvsSMpyKJn6nkoOIowNo_5BwtI269s1nBN362wpibq5kQsZOA6YhCvLPBl8cE06mYxk4Yb3Qos68rGsWyclVY/s1600/fake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_izEt4LS-ZuoEvwSokDFBnitdwPXmbsX1Tok5tY3yvScMlhv1MbWaZESvsSMpyKJn6nkoOIowNo_5BwtI269s1nBN362wpibq5kQsZOA6YhCvLPBl8cE06mYxk4Yb3Qos68rGsWyclVY/s1600/fake2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
**</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook depends on its users to be honest. With 239,000
users for every Facebook employee, it's logistically impossible to verify all
the information that is submitted. Fake names, fake ages, fake interests — all
these inaccuracies interfere with the company's ability to accurately target
advertisements. Facebook wants to build the world's most comprehensive database
of people. If the information is current and correct, Facebook could eventually
become a place where people bank or vote or even file taxes. If it's filled
with errors, it nears uselessness — at least, as far as advertisers are
concerned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Real names are key to keeping the integrity of that
database. By forcing people to use their real names, Facebook pressures users
to mirror their offline identities. That’s why Facebook, now a public company,
has made enforcing its real-names policy a top priority. Employees and
automated systems trawl the site for fakers, sometimes sweeping up genuine
users including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Salman Rushdie by accident.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FACEBOOK, NOW A
PUBLIC COMPANY, HAS MADE ENFORCING ITS REAL-NAMES POLICY A TOP PRIORITY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Facebook is a community where people use their real
identities. When everyone uses their real first and last names, people can know
who they're connecting with. This helps keep our community safe," a
Facebook spokesperson said in an email. "It’s a violation of our policies
to use a fake name or operate under a false identity, and we encourage people
to report anyone they think is doing this."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook has a dedicated investigations team that reviews
user-reported aliases, and the company has also built and is constantly working
on "complex technical systems that flag potential fake accounts for
review," the Facebook spokesperson said. As a last resort, Facebook asks
users to submit a form of government-issued identification.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So obviously, making a Facebook page under your pen name is
risky and could get both of your accounts banned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Fake names on Amazon contributed to this article below that
was in the Huffington Post.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Below this dead link is the article from the Huffington Post:
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/04/rj-ellory-fake-amazon-reviews-caught_n_1854713.html<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Article here:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bestselling, award-winning crime author R.J. Ellory has been
caught faking Amazon reviews for both his own books and the books of his
competitors.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ellory was caught writing the fake Amazon reviews by fellow
author Jeremy Duns, according to ABC News. Such an act is dubbed
"sock-puppeting," or writing anonymous online reviews praising one's
own work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gawker posted the complete Twitter thread written by Duns,
via Storify, in which the author describes the posts Ellory wrote about his own
works.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Ellory writes 5-star reviews of his own work on
Amazon. Long, purple tributes to his own magnificent genius," Duns
tweeted. "RJ Ellory also writes shoddy, sh----y sniping reviews of others
authors' work on Amazon, under an assumed identity."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adding, "Prasing [sic] yourself is pathetic. Attacking
other writers like this? I have no time for it, and have no time for anyone who
defends it."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ellory posted one of the fake Amazon reviews under the
pseudonym "Nicodemus Jones," writing: "I don't need to really
say anything about the plot of this book. All I will say is that there are
paragraphs and chapters that just stopped me dead in my tracks. Some of it was
chilling, some of it raced along, some of it was poetic and langorous and had
to be read twice and three times to really appreciate the depth of the
prose...it really is a magnificent book. Ignore all dissentors and naysayers,
this book is not trying to be anything other than a great story, brilliantly
told. Just buy it, read it, and make up your own mind. Whatever else it might
do, it will touch your soul."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Nicodemus Jones" also wrote a negative review about
Stuart MacBride's "Dark Blood." It was in this review that Duns
caught onto Ellory's fraudulent reviews. He noticed that one particular
Nicodemus Jones thread had postings by user "RJ Ellory," according to
the Guardian.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ellory issued a statement to the Guardian, offering his
apologies for sock-puppeting.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"The recent reviews – both positive and negative – that
have been posted on my Amazon accounts are my responsibility and my
responsibility alone. I wholeheartedly regret the lapse of judgment that
allowed personal opinions to be disseminated in this way and I would like to
[apologize] to my readers and the writing community."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ellory, who won the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of
the Year award in 2010 for "A Simple Act of Violence," is not the
only author guilty of writing fake reviews.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Orlando Figes, a leading historian, admitted to writing
anonymous Amazon reviews celebrating his own work and condemning the work of
his competitors in 2010, according the BBC. He was sued by two historians and
ordered to pay damages.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the United Kingdom's most successful thriller
writers, Stephen Leather, also admitted to sock-puppeting and claimed the
practice is commonplace.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll go on to several forums … and post there, under my own
name and under various other names and various other characters," Leather
disclosed at the Harrogate Crime Writing Festival, according to the Telelgraph.
"You build this whole network of characters who talk about your books and
sometimes have conversations with yourself … I have friends who are sockpuppets
… One person on their own, difficult to create a buzz. If you’ve got ten
friends, and they’ve got friends, and you can get them all as one creating a
buzz, then hopefully you’ll be all right."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
John Locke, a successful self-publisher and author of
"How I Sold One Million E-Books In Five Months," admitted to buying
five-star reviews to boost his Amazon visibility, The New York Times reports.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sam Millar was accused of the act earlier this year. Science
fiction and fantasy authors also found that frustrated writer Robert Stanek was
sock-puppeting in 2009.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Telegraph's Jake Kerridge questioned if the Ellory
scandal is just the tip of the iceberg.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Already other publishing practices are coming under
scrutiny. Do too many crime writers provide quotes for the jackets of their
friends’ books?" he asked, adding, "Most of the crime writers I know
are genial, friendly souls (Ellory has long been regarded by many in the
community as atypically self-aggrandising and chippy), so perhaps not. But
since Amazon is unlikely to discontinue its practice of allowing pseudonymous
reviews, the industry needs to get to work on regaining readers’ trust."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Authors have already publicly condemned Ellory for abusing
online anonymity by "misusing these channels in ways that are fraudulent
and damaging to publishing at large." Notable authors who have signed the
petition against sock-puppeting include Karin Slaughter, Ian Rankin, Jo Nesbo
and Val McDermid.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>I hope you found this interesting and feel free to visit my
other blogs as listed in my archives.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-62528339833489867292014-09-27T13:15:00.001-04:002014-09-27T13:20:47.524-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Politics and Religion on Facebook</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Musings by: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me preface this blog with some insights about me
personally. If you haven’t read my past blogs let me recommend two: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">That is not what I meant! By: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">And,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Passion and Debate: Thoughts by: Joe P. Attanasio.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>In the first blog</b> I
endeavor to bring to everyone attention how in written communication our intended
meaning is often lost or misinterpreted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">When commenting and
posting on Political and Religious subject matter (both sensitive issues for
many) this has the potential for damaging relationships.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>In the second blog</b> I
give my opinion that ‘Passion and Debate mix as well as Oil and Water.’ I go on
to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“I think a debate
should have rules. Perhaps be limited to a certain amount of time or number of
points. This should be agreed on beforehand. I also think a person should be
able to “agree to disagree” in some cases and end all discussion by making that
statement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I know some people
that enjoy debating just about anything with their friends. They revel in
presenting pros and cons for hours. They get to exhibit there knowledge and
expertise and truly enjoy the whole experience. I say, “Good for you if that is
your thing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">To me, debate is
just a fancy word for argue until you prove yourself right. Although I am
passionate about a great many things, you will rarely find me willing to debate
my point. I don’t like the confrontation. I will state my opinion and you can
agree or disagree. Try to debate with me and “I will pass”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18HnKbm9shfvnPa86FXdOerLCuxp1UWh8i7NDCeBiOAhdA6g5-hqnKGZRcDedeLWOOydE2P-acXy6NHsuVUwSEKbICtJA4K8mGZTCtBPHuym_zdabKeJwOhuzQUyZuX5_f95_RiyWSNQ/s1600/no+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18HnKbm9shfvnPa86FXdOerLCuxp1UWh8i7NDCeBiOAhdA6g5-hqnKGZRcDedeLWOOydE2P-acXy6NHsuVUwSEKbICtJA4K8mGZTCtBPHuym_zdabKeJwOhuzQUyZuX5_f95_RiyWSNQ/s1600/no+copy.jpg" height="320" width="233" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p><o:p> </o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">So basically I do
not like to discuss Religion or Politics in public on Facebook because it makes
me uncomfortable and because I fear my comments may be misinterpreted. I also do not like to even see most of these.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have felt myself bristle with anger over a number of
political and religious posts in the last few years. The comments people make
range from supportive to rude to completely idiotic in my opinion. While this
may be mildly amusing to some, I take umbrage over these posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I feel many of the political memes I see have been created
to discredit one political party or individual or another. I suspect that is
the sole purpose for many of the memes to be created, so we can spread and sway
our friends in one direction or the other. Well, I personally think that is
terrible and I refuse to become part of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While the religious memes are generally benign in nature
bringing religious views into unrelated posts as comments can cause hard
feelings between people of different mindsets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Especially around election time I wish Facebook would allow
filtering by use of a button to hide all political posts. When the status or
meme is posted a list of categories could come up like Religious, Political,
Advertisement, Adult Language, or Other to be selected. Of course, this will never happen as Facebook wants as many posts and interactions as they can get to show to their advertisers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These types of posts are all too frequent for my taste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is just me giving my opinion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Read through my archives for all my blog titles.</span></b></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-41384868404111361242014-09-21T14:41:00.002-04:002014-09-21T14:43:45.304-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>That is not what I meant!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>By: Joe P. Attanasio</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">This blog is about what people perceive you to have said. </span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4hQml5PwqlFtSNG8zqeImO7eK-jjqCTwnqjd4TvbXT2q1PjgQMeDovoMCq1hXgL87p940vik0AFvUTTsManKoBcu6YRqsSW9rWY5VDbgJpZZWeT01OaUM1N8GvJ0A9JwUrUmntXmgwA/s1600/Meant1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4hQml5PwqlFtSNG8zqeImO7eK-jjqCTwnqjd4TvbXT2q1PjgQMeDovoMCq1hXgL87p940vik0AFvUTTsManKoBcu6YRqsSW9rWY5VDbgJpZZWeT01OaUM1N8GvJ0A9JwUrUmntXmgwA/s1600/Meant1+copy.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When two people are talking face to face we communicate with
words, actions, and expressions or body language.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Often our smile or grin tells the other person that we are
being playful or kidding when we say something. Our eyes convey concern or the
way we stand can show resolve. There are many ways we use our bodies to help
communicate. We also read other people by observing their bodies. Often what
they say is secondary to their body language for conveying their intentions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The trouble is that in today’s world most of our communication
is typed and sent in messages. There is no way to ensure that your words will
be received in the same meaning that you intended when you wrote them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">As writers we may be more equipped to convey our meaning
than a lot of other people but that is of little comfort when you are
misinterpreted. The old adage “Assume means make an ass of you and me”,
especially plays into written communication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many words have multiple meanings and assuming the writer
means one thing when they meant another can throw a slant on a whole
conversation. I have seen numerous Facebook posts with comments where one
friend or acquaintance chastises someone for making a comment to another person
based on what they assume the conversation meant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once seen (read) the words you posted cannot be unseen. We
have a responsibility to choose our words carefully and scrutinize them for
misinterpretation before posting. I think a little awareness in this area will
go a long way toward ensuring people know what we meant to say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Facebook contributes to the problem with their limited
choice of buttons. Most people click LIKE to show they read a post. Clicking “like”
does not always mean a person agrees with a post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another factor that I see come into play on Facebook is that
many public posts should be private. By posting publicly people invite opinions
and comments that can cause conflict and hard feelings. If you are going to say
something publicly, be ready to own it and defend it is my advice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another point I want to address here is that behind the veil
of relative anonymity or knowing you will never have to meet the people you are
talking to in real life, many get a false sense of bravado. In other words, people feel comfortable being
rude and outspoken because they are detached personally. In my opinion, this is
a poor excuse for acting any differently than you would in person. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Depending on their mood, people can interpret what you said
to be totally different than what you meant. Misunderstandings have ruined many
friendships and families. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Let’s all make a conscience effort to think before we type.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Please feel free to check out my Blog archives for other
posts.</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-22135456818264548082014-09-19T12:54:00.003-04:002014-09-19T12:57:17.412-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">First chapter of "A Butchers Tale"</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">By: Joe P. Attanasio</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">This was my first attempt at writing a novel. I was 62 years old and had just retired from my profession as a meat-cutter and manager.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><b>My writing skills have improved but I have never revised this story. I present it here as written in 2011. </b></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cPxw5rb382123kDg0nS6COk6wt6RZXRLOCsch_htbew_cd7H4g1VGtMBap_8bvaR23aqeoxULQLKIjQYylXL09NpJ99up1vDWqHcO10h14epL_u2LEVmIHQ_3K0jnLZH3ITOGBsuzDI/s1600/newcover18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cPxw5rb382123kDg0nS6COk6wt6RZXRLOCsch_htbew_cd7H4g1VGtMBap_8bvaR23aqeoxULQLKIjQYylXL09NpJ99up1vDWqHcO10h14epL_u2LEVmIHQ_3K0jnLZH3ITOGBsuzDI/s1600/newcover18.jpg" height="320" width="198" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>This
is a historical adventure. This is the story of a passionate and idealistic
young man named Joseph in fourteenth century England. He gives up his career as
a butcher with his trade guild in York and follows a young woman, Dorothy, and
her family into the border country to the north. Dorothy and her family are
going to take over the farm they inherited when her uncle died. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;"><b> The English-Scottish war is heating up and
the border region is very unstable. This is the time of Edward I, (Longshanks),
and William Wallace. Every effort has been made to ensure the historical events
and flavor of the times is accurately portrayed. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;"><b> For those that are familiar with the
reference; this story resembles a fourteenth century version of “Little House
on the Prairie” written by Laura Ingalls Wilder.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">**</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chapter 1</b></span><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"> <span style="font-size: large;"> My name is Joseph and I was born in
Brighthelmstone on the southern coast of England in the year 1281. I am a
journeyman butcher and was taught the trade by my father. I don’t remember my
mother; she died when I was only four years old. My father died two years ago
in the year 1298 and I moved to York. I am tall and strong and no stranger to
hard work. I have brown wavy hair and blue eyes. I got a job working in a
butcher shop and joined the butcher’s guild. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> It was May in the year 1300. The butcher’s
guild was participating in the annual Mystery Plays again this year. I am
working on making props and helping to decorate the pageant cart. The cart will
be moved throughout York so many people can see the performance. We are doing
the biblical scene of Adam and Eve this year. Another butcher from our shop,
and a friend of mine named Thomas, is playing Adam. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I was painting signs one day when Thomas
walked up talking with the most beautiful girl I have ever seen. “Joseph, I
want you to meet Dorothy she will be playing Eve.” I stood up and smiled and
bowed, “Pleasure to meet you Dorothy.” She smiled and bowed her head slightly,
“A pleasure to meet you too, Joseph.” Her golden hair hung gently on her
shoulders. She had light blue-green eyes that sparkled with youth and vibrancy.
Her skin was smooth and ivory colored. Her lips were plump and inviting. They
said goodbye and they both walked away talking. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I watched Dorothy as she walked. She had a
very nice shape and her hips swayed with grace and charm as she disappeared
around the corner with Thomas. I would sure like to be in the Garden of Eden
with her I thought, as I went back to painting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I saw Thomas and Dorothy here and there as
we prepared for opening day and every time I could not help but admire
Dorothy’s beauty and grace. It felt like a sweet fresh wind blew past me
whenever she was around, arousing my senses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"> It was one week before the pageant when
Thomas had a terrible accident. He was preparing a large sow for slaughter,
when the sow slipped and crashed against him; it pushed him through the fence
and a broken board pierced his chest. I went to see him at </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">St. Leonards Hospital</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">
and he was pale and weak. He was in very serious condition and not expected to
live. I knew the priest had already heard his confession as one could not be
admitted for care until that was done. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “Joseph, I want to tell you two things.
Dorothy is sweet on you and she asked me not to tell you. She said her heart
skips a beat whenever she is near you.” Thomas coughed a few times then cleared
his throat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “John the director was in to see me already.
I told him he should consider you to take my place in the Mystery Play. I told
him you could play my part and that you and Dorothy had feelings for each other
and that would enhance the performance. He is not convinced as he has never
seen you act but I know you can. He is willing to see you try it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Go to my house and take the script and look
it over. It is not hard to learn. There is not that much dialog and if you
practice it before you see him you will convince him you can act the part.” I
assured Thomas I would do my best and that helped him relax a bit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I went and got the script and sat there
practicing the words and pretending I was talking to Dorothy. It was not
difficult to remember the words and I learned them all easily. There were only
five parts, the Narrator, God, Adam, Eve and the Serpent. I had to learn the
cues from the Narrator, God and Eve. The Serpent never talked to me only to
Eve. All I had to do was deliver my lines with the right feeling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy entered Thomas’s house as I was
preparing to leave. “Thomas told me I might find you here,” she said with a sad
look on her face. “I hope Thomas does not die, he looks pretty bad” she added. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “He is young and strong and he is in a good
hospital getting good care. All we can do is pray to God he will recover.” We
talked for a while and she agreed to run through the lines with me. She read
all the lines but mine to help me learn my cues. She made her voice deep when
she was the Narrator and I had to smile the first few times. I forced myself to
concentrate on the lines instead of us being alone there. After some practice
she agreed to see the director with me, so off we went. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> John
consented to hear us act our parts together.
We really played well off each other and John saw the love we had for
each other and liked what he saw. John told me I had the part. We had the
wardrobe altered as Thomas was shorter than me. We covered ourselves with
loincloths decorated with greenery but after we sinned we were embarrassed by
our nakedness and had to wear more clothes.
Dorothy and I rehearsed our lines together even though we knew them so
well already. We just liked being together and we were growing very fond of
each other. We also worked on decorations and props. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> We kept quite busy that week and finally it
was time for the pageant to start. We
had 6 shows each day. It was a very hectic schedule but we learned to hurry
between shows and it was so much fun. People always crowded around to see the
shows. Our show was one of the most popular. People would follow our cart for
miles just to watch our show.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy would pick the forbidden apple and
offer it to me. Dorothy would tempt me to sin every show and I would try to
resist every show. I always gave in to her temptation on stage. I was tempted
by Dorothy off the stage also and would eagerly do whatever I needed to be with
her. We resisted temptation and we kept our relationship professional. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> After eight days and 48 shows we finished
the plays for this year. After the final show the troupe had a huge
celebration. John the director announced that Thomas was getting better but it
would take him a long time before he could return to work. Everyone was pleased
with the success of our show and the mood was quite happy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy pulled me away from the others and
asked, “What are your plans for the future now that the show is over?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;">“I
really don’t have any plans but I hope to be able to spend some time with you!”
I said staring into her beautiful eyes. “I have grown quite fond of you as I am
certain you know.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “I am quite fond of you also Joseph.” She
smiled so sweetly at me. “I wish we could be together but I am going to be leaving
York. My Uncle William died a short time ago; he owned a small farm near Jarrow
along the Tyne River. My father has agreed to take it over. It is far to the
northeast and I am going there to help my mother and my father run the farm. I
told my father we really liked each other a lot and I want to be with you. He
said you were welcome to join us if you wanted. I understand that you have a
good job here and would probably want to stay.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I did not need any time to think about it. I
wanted a change and I wanted to be near Dorothy. “I will call on your father
tomorrow and offer to help your family move. I am willing to go work on the
farm for a while and see if I like it. At least I will be near you. I can
always come back to York and butcher again if it does not work out.” Dorothy
put her arms around my neck and gave me a hug and a kiss on my cheek and said,
“Joseph I am falling in love with you and want to be near you always. I am so
happy you are coming along to Jarrow!” I smiled and kissed her on her lips. “I
fell in love with you the moment I saw you.” I confessed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy’s father’s name is Luther. He works
at the lumber mill just outside the north-east gate. I found him at the mill
that morning. He is a short and stocky man about 40 years old. He has long
white hair and a soft voice. He was very fit for his age and strong from all
the hard work. I had met him a few times in the past and we got along good
together. He saw our play five times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “Dorothy told me you were going to come
along and help with the farm. I can promise you food and a dry place to sleep
but I do not know about paying you until we get settled there.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> I told him, “I am fine with that. I have
saved some coin and am not worried about being paid for now. I love your
daughter and just want to be near her. I will work hard for you but I must confess
I do not know much about farming. What can I do to help you get ready to go?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> He told me, “Talk to my wife Catherine and
she will give you a list of things you can do to help.” He added, “I am no
stranger to farm work but there is a lot I do not know either, we can learn
together.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Catherine and Dorothy were sitting together
talking when I arrived at their house. It was easy to see where Dorothy got her
good looks. Catherine has short white hair and is rather petite in size, her
cheeks are rosy and her beautiful blue eyes sparkle like sapphires. She is a
bundle of energy and high spirited.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy stood up and said, “Joseph, I want
you to meet my mother Catherine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “It is nice to meet you Catherine. I saw you
watching our play with Luther. I hope you enjoyed it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “I enjoyed it very much.” She added, “I wish
my son Sean could have seen it too. He would have been so proud of Dorothy. He
is an archer fighting for England in the north of France.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “Is Sean younger or older?” I asked <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy answered, “Sean is my big brother.
He is two years older than me. He has been a soldier for 5 years.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> The next two weeks passed quickly and it was
time to leave York. I pulled a small cart with our belongings along the
well-travelled road out the north gate of York. I wondered how long I would be
gone from the great walled city. It took us three days to reach the busy port
of Sunderland at the mouth of the Wear River on the North Sea. We found an inn
each night and did not have to search for a room among the many farms on the
way. The next morning when we started out we knew we would sleep on the farm
that night. We bought some bread and mead and other food to take to the farm. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> The coast fell behind as we climbed the
hilly terrain between the Wear and the Tyne rivers. Dorothy had not been to the
farm for six years and was excited to be going there. Her Uncle William had
died two months ago and was the last of his family. He was buried on the farm
by a young man from a nearby farm that helped him with the chores. Dorothy and
her parents were very excited as we neared the farm. We crested a hill on the
worn wagon trail and Catherine pointed toward the river, “There it is! There it
is, over there by the river.” I could see three structures clustered together
near the river. One large one that I assumed was the barn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> When we arrived at the farm Luther and I
took a look around while the ladies stayed in the house tidying it up. The
house was bigger than most we saw on the way here. It had a hearth and an oven
in the main room and two smaller rooms for sleeping. There was fresh straw on
the beds. Behind the house was a tall wild field going down to the river. It
was mixed with brambles, small trees and even some big trees. There was a hen
house with about 25 chickens. The barn was large and there were two oxen
inside. Each ox had a stall for itself. There were sacks of grain in the barn
and straw. In the corner was a bin filled with hay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> On one side of the barn an herb garden was
growing. A large open area led up a slight hill to a hardwood forest and had
been planted with barley. A wheat field was growing behind the barn and led all
the way to a wagon road along the river. It was July and the wheat was getting
tall. There was no one around but us. Luther and I were inspecting the grounds.
There was no well on the farm. Apparently all water was drawn from the Tyne
River. There was four buckets of water on the north side of the house and
Luther told me to always keep those full in case the thatched roof caught fire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Luther was somewhat familiar with farm life
and was explaining how some things would have to be done. He explained that the
chickens were free range and allowed to roam the farm to feed with supervision
then closed back up in the hen house to keep them safe. There was a leather
yoke for each oxen and a work cart for hauling. The manure from the oxen stalls
would be spread in the fields to enrich the soil for the crops. He told me the
farm could be run by one person most of the time but you needed help for
plowing and harvesting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> We heard a man yelling and we could see a
young man walking toward us from the river. “Hello!” he yelled as he waved his
right arm from side to side. I waved back in recognition and he stopped yelling
and approached us. “I am George. I live a few miles up the river and had been
helping William on the farm here ever since his son died. I was told a message
had been sent to his brother and was expecting you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Luther said, “William was my brother. I am
Luther. This is a friend of ours, Joseph. He is going to help us run the farm.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> “Let me show you around,” George said.
George was about my age and almost as tall. He had short brown hair and brown
eyes. His shoulders were very broad and his neck was thick. He looked very
strong. He had a friendly face and a warm smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Dorothy and Catherine came out of the house
and George took one look at Dorothy and kept staring at her with a huge smile
stuck on his face, he tried to speak but no words came out. I could tell that
he was captivated by her beauty. Catherine broke the silence by saying, “Hello
I am Catherine and this is my daughter Dorothy, it is nice to meet you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> George looked at Catherine and said, “My
name is George, I live a few miles up the river and I was helping
William.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Catherine invited us all into the house to
eat bread and drink mead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> We sat and talked with George for a long
time. He had three brothers and two sisters and lived on a farm up river with
his father. His mother passed away four years ago. He was friends with William’s son Arthur and
when Arthur died a little over a year ago he started helping William with the
farm. He told Luther that he would introduce him to all the people he needed to
know in Jarrow to manage the farm. I could see George was taken with Dorothy’s
beauty. She looked especially radiant today. Being out in the countryside
seemed to agree with her, perhaps because it made her happy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"> Luther and I followed George around the farm
and watched him do the daily chores as he talked and talked about the farm and
Jarrow and William. We promised to come up and meet his family someday soon
after we got settled. George said, “I will be back in the morning and we can
all go to Jarrow, it is not a long walk.” Then he went home for the night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"><b>Please take the time to look over the other blogs from my archives.</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-27341096749235076952014-09-17T17:02:00.002-04:002014-09-17T17:02:41.779-04:00<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><b>Five of my all-time favorite jokes:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">By: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><b>I have a handful of jokes that I seem to remember and enjoy
telling on occasion and I wanted to share them here.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">***</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The finals of the National Poetry Contest last year came down to
two finalists. One was a University of Alabama Law School graduate from an
upper crust family; well-bred, well-connected, and all that goes with it. The
other finalist was a redneck from Auburn University in Alabama.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The rules of the contest required each finalist to compose a
four line poem in one minute or less, and the poem had to contain the word
"Timbuktu."</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Duke graduate went first. About thirty seconds after the
clock started he jumped up and recited the following poem:</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"Slowly across the desert sand<br />
Trekked the dusty caravan.<br />
Men on camels, two by two<br />
Destination-Timbuktu."</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The audience went wild! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How they wondered could the redneck top that?</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The clock started again and the redneck sat in silent thought.
Finally, in the last few seconds, he jumped up and recited:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"Tim and me, a-huntin' went.<br />
Met three whores in a pop-up tent.<br />
They was three, we was two,<br />
So I bucked one and Timbuktu."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYe1JteWgmSaBHtMhy5dvBeT2N4iO-iScl2IkF9U-EHunnV1OY-oGEWKQjB-0_bn9CRoV_vW7fthzTqnA-tP09qISMjZqysKp45eEPq_pB1kQC_lmwwNM7Lsndg8flxRgEP_OVQoMqfw/s1600/poetry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYe1JteWgmSaBHtMhy5dvBeT2N4iO-iScl2IkF9U-EHunnV1OY-oGEWKQjB-0_bn9CRoV_vW7fthzTqnA-tP09qISMjZqysKp45eEPq_pB1kQC_lmwwNM7Lsndg8flxRgEP_OVQoMqfw/s1600/poetry.jpg" height="115" width="320" /></a></div>
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***<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Somewhere in the farm country in the central Unites States, a
new young priest was assigned his first parish.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Shortly after arriving he received a letter from the old priest
at the next parish over, inviting him to dinner.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">He arrived at the old priest’s house for dinner and knocked on
the door. When the door opened his jaw dropped and his eye grew wide. A most
beautiful curvy blonde lady in her 30’s greeted him with a nice warm smile.
Behind her was the old priest. As her entered the old priest took him aside and
assured him that she was merely his housekeeper and no funny business was going
on.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">After dinner the young priest thanked him for having him over
and told the old priest that he enjoyed the company and dinner very much.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A few days later the housekeeper told the old priest that ever
since dinner that night, she could not find the silver gravy ladle that was on the
table. The old priest looked for it, and not being able to find it wrote the
young priest a letter.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The old priest wrote: I enjoyed having you over, but I have a
concern. I am not saying you stole it, but since you came for dinner I have not
been able to find my silver gray ladle.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A few days later, the old priest received a letter from the
young priest saying:</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I am not saying you are sleeping with your house keeper, but IF
you would have slept in YOUR OWN bed you would have found it!!</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<b><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I have to tell a story about this joke. I was 10 years old and I
walked into the kitchen at some holiday time and there were about 5 adults,
including my dad. Someone was telling a joke and was just getting done. All I
heard was Pastor Fuzz and they people all roared with laughter. I asked what
was so funny and was not told.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<b><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> I never forgot those two words. A few weeks later when I
was alone with my dad in our garage I asked him about the joke. He could not
remember. I still never forgot those two words, thinking that someday I would
hear the joke.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><b><i> Last year some 50 years later something reminded me of
those two words. With the internet being available I tried “Pastor Fuzz joke”,
and there it was, 50 years later and many hits. It seems the joke was popular
in England as well only in England they used the name Pastor Fluff.</i></b></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">
<b>THE JOKE:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Reverend John Fuzz was pastor of a small congregation in a
little Pennsylvania town. One day he was walking down Main Street and he
happened to notice a female member of his congregation sitting in the town bar,
drinking beer. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The reverend thought this was sinful and not something a member
of his congregation should do, so he walked through the open door of the bar
and sat down next to the woman.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"Mrs. Fitzgerald," the reverend said sternly.
"This is no place for a member of my congregation. Why don't you let me
take you home?"</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"Shure," she said with a slur, obviously very drunk.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">When Mrs. Fitzgerald stood up from the bar, she began to weave
back and forth. The reverend realized that she had had too much to drink and he
grabbed hold of her arms to steady her. When he did, they both lost their
balance and tumbled to the floor.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">After rolling around for a few seconds, the reverend wound up
lying on top of Mrs. Fitzgerald, her skirt hiked up to her waist.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The bartender looked over the bar and said, "Here, here,
buddy, we won't have any of that carrying on in this bar."</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The reverend looked up at the bartender and said, "But you don't
understand, I'm Pastor Fuzz."</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The bartender nodded and said, "Well, heck, if you're that
far along you might as well finish the job."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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***<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<b><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Okay, this joke is going to be difficult to say typing, it is a
speaking kind of joke BUT I will endeavor to tell it.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">There were two great friends Ollie Oyster and Sam Clam,</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">They both died on the same day in a car accident.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Ollie Oyster, who had led a good life, was taken into heaven.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Sam Clam was not so lucky, his wild past caught up with him and
he was condemned to hell.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">One day Ollie Oyster with his harp under his arm approached
Saint Peter at the gates of heaven.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">He asked if he could get a special pass to visit his old friend
in hell.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Saint Peter told Ollie Oyster he could visit hell but had to be
back by midnight.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">When Ollie Oyster got to hell, he asked around to find where his
friend Sam Calm might be.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Finally someone told him that Sam Clam owned a wild discotheque
(disco) club.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Ollie Oyster made his way to Sam Clams disco and found his old
friend and was having a great visit. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Time went by very quickly as they reminisced. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">He looked at the clock 11:50 pm he barely had time to get back
to heaven, he ran all the way to the gates where Saint Peter was waiting.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">He stopped, looked at Saint Peter and promptly said, “wait!! I
have to go back”</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Saint Peter asked him why and he replied, “I left my harp in Sam
Clams disco”</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Ok…. Are you laughing?</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Or did you at least go DUH?</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Try saying the last 8 words again, listening to how it
sounds.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Try singing the last 8 words!</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">To the tune of:</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I left my heart in San Francisco, by Tony Bennett</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Well, I did warn it was a vocal joke so you could exaggerate the
ending.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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**<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">A Mailman was getting ready to retire after 30 years on his mail
route. Most of the people he delivered mail to knew that Friday would be his
last day.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">Friday morning he started his deliveries. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">At the first house he
was given a box of candy as a retirement gift. At the second house he was given
a bottle of wine.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">When he went to the third house he was greeted by a shapely
young blonde woman wearing a see through negligee. She took him by the hand and
led him up the stairs to the bedroom. She gave him the most mind blowing sex he
ever had. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">She then led him down to the kitchen where she cooked him bacon and
eggs, toast and coffee. Under his coffee cup was a one dollar bill.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">The mailman was full and sexually satisfied. He could not
believe his luck. Still, he wondered what the one dollar bill was all about, so
he asked her.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">“Well,” the sexy woman replied. “I told my husband last night
that we should give you something because you were retiring. He said,
‘Fuck him! Give him a dollar!’ the breakfast was my idea.”</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.6pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;"> ****</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><b>Check out my other blogs while you are here.</b></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-25173712623162715312014-09-16T13:41:00.004-04:002014-09-16T13:41:33.585-04:00<ol style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11.8181819915771px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<b>My favorite movie scenes:</b></div>
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By: Joe P. Attanasio</div>
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I like to watch movies. Well, not just any movies, probably
less that 5% of all the movies released each year. Like everyone else, certain
scenes or words can become dear to me for one reason or another. I like to call
these “my favorite scenes”, This is not very original, but identifiable by
many.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Over the course of the last forty-fifty years I probably
have less than twenty favorite scenes. I think you can learn a lot about a
person by asking them about their favorite scenes and since I brought this up,
I will save my readers the bother of asking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>FIRST KNIGHT</b> (1995) – Richard Gere, Sean Connery, Julia
Ormond and Ben Cross:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I really liked this movie a lot. Guinevere was abducted and
Lancelot chased the captors relentlessly and eventually saved her and they
escaped. He stopped for a moment to rest in a small grove of trees and she
asked him why they were stopping. “I’m tired.” was his response. She laughs
politely and says, “Never! You battle in your dreams.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This line exemplified Lancelot’s Spirit and Guinevere’s love
and respect for him. I think all men who consider themselves “champions of a
cause” would like to be seen this way, as tireless in the fight against evil. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHy0MBLs0Mfo2uj_sos9mnN-F1QJBTZbw2GkZVufVC6bA5wJudFoXivhEhTeMXb7nzMESevQNBgahQms0qR7kLWK8jaFLEDAQlWZ13Hs2ujs6kzjv6hsjv-iSBMZiOnLvPoKEZ4VyPUY/s1600/knight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHy0MBLs0Mfo2uj_sos9mnN-F1QJBTZbw2GkZVufVC6bA5wJudFoXivhEhTeMXb7nzMESevQNBgahQms0qR7kLWK8jaFLEDAQlWZ13Hs2ujs6kzjv6hsjv-iSBMZiOnLvPoKEZ4VyPUY/s1600/knight.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
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**
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<b>PRINCESS BRIDE</b> (1987) – Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Robin
Wright, Andre the Giant and many more.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although I have many favorite lines from this movie, one
scene stands out above the rest. Westley was almost killed and mostly dead but
recovering. He was a master planner and was dragged to the city gates by Inigo
Montoya and Fezzik who needed to get inside. The gates were being guarded by
sixty men and there was just the three of them. Westley could not even hold his
own head up he was in such bad shape. “We must get inside but the gate is
guarded by sixty men,” Inigo told Westly while trying to revive him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“What are our assets?” Westley asked rolling his eyes in a
stupor. “My sword, Fezziks strength and your brains,” was Inigo’s response.
“Impossible,” Westley stated, “I mean, if we only had a wheelbarrow, that would
be something.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Indigo responded, “We brought you in a wheelbarrow, it is
over there.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Westley said, “Well, why didn't you list that among our
assets in the first place?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I like dry humor and the whole scene is bathed in it. The
idea of an almost dead man asking what are our assets and chiding them for mot
mentioning a wheelbarrow tickles my twisted funny bone. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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**<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID</b> (1969) - Paul Newman,
Robert Redford and Katherine Ross: <o:p></o:p></div>
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They were being chased relentlessly by a special posse of
expert lawmen and were trapped on a rock ledge about 150 feet above a white
water river. With no way out Butch said, “We will jump, I'll jump first.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sundance replied, “no.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Then you jump first,” Butch countered.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“No, I said,” <o:p></o:p></div>
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“What's the matter with you?” Butch said desperately.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“I can’t swim,” Sundance’s replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Butch looks at the 150 foot drop into the rapids then back
at Sundance and breaks out in laughter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Are you crazy? The fall will probably kill you.” Butch said
grabbing Sundance’s hand and pulling him over the edge with him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“OH SHIT…..,” could be heard as they dropped into the river.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I loved this scene as it showed bravado in a no win
situation, The determination to try anything before giving up to certain death,
and doing it with style.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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**<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>CAT BALLOU </b>(1965) Jane Fonda, Lee Marvin, Michael Callan:<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of my favorite movies but one particular scene always
come to mind and has been quoted by me numerous times. Frankie Ballou (Cat’s
father) is in danger from a gun slinger and she convinces her friends to stay
close to him to protect him. Every time he takes a step three guys move with
him. Frankie stops and spreads his arms moving the three people away from him
and says, “Stand back and let me breathe.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I know this probably sounds mundane but it has stuck with me
all these years. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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**<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>ABBOTT AND COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN</b> (1948) Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, Lon Chaney Jr. and Bela
Lugosi:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This old classic is full of ‘tongue in cheek’ humor and is
very entertaining. A local museum operator orders Dracula’s coffin from Europe
and ends up with Dracula, Frankenstein and the Wolf Man terrorizing their small
town. He is concerned with the loss of his exhibits and blames Chick Young and
Wilbur Grey. In the final scene all three monsters are chasing Chick and Wilbur
when they pass the curator. Wilbur yells, ”Hey, if you still want your
exhibits, here they come,” as he points at them in pursuit. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I love the line and am always finding ways to use it in
everyday life with my wife. The picture of the three monsters chasing them and
the snarky way Wilbur yells it to the curator is priceless.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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**<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>INDEPENDENCE DAY</b> (1996) Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff
Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Margaret Colin, and Randy
Quaid:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I was moved by the speech the president makes in the face of
obliteration from a conquering race of aliens. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="bold"><b><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; padding: 0in;">President
Thomas J. Whitmore:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; padding: 0in;"> </span></b></span><span class="line"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; padding: 0in;">Good morning. Good morning. In less than an hour, aircraft
from here will join others from around the world, and you will be launching the
largest aerial battle in the history of mankind. Mankind, that word should have
new meaning for all of us today. We can't be consumed by our petty differences
any more. We will be united in our common interest. Perhaps it's fate that
today is the 4th of July, and you will once again be fighting for our freedom.
Not from tyranny, oppression, or persecution, but from annihilation. We're
fighting for our right to live, to exist and should we win the day, the 4th of
July will no longer be known as an American holiday, but as the day when the
world declared in one voice, 'We will not go quietly into the night! We will
not vanish without a fight! We're going to live on, we're going to survive.'
Today we celebrate our independence day!</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>I hope we got to know each other a little better through our
FAVORITE MOVIES SCENES. Thanks for reading and feel free to check my blog
archives for other articles.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-16278166513194445902014-09-12T15:14:00.004-04:002014-09-12T15:14:50.442-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Erotic, Hot or Spicy writing:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Ramblings by: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have never been a romance reader per se. I find that odd
since I have always been a romantic person. I have written a number of short
stories and poems of a romantic nature but I was never interested in reading
romance novels. I think that is because I perceived them to be filled with “fluff”.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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In this case fluff would be; ho hum relationships, overly described
in meaningless detail with a number of partners, involving the same schemes and
ending in the hero gets the girl predictability. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Recently I have become involved with a number of authors and
writer groups giving me a responsible desire to sample romance novels of sorts.
This came about as a mixture of curiosity and a sense of reciprocation for
reading the works of fellow writers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I found that the term “Romance Novels” did not fit my preconceived
notions anymore.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Many of these stories have thriller and mystery plots
intertwined with romance and seasoned with Spicy, Hot or Erotic scenes. The
reading is compelling and the story settings are easy to become immersed in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The seasoning here has come a long way from the true
detective stories of the 50’s. The descriptions of intimate scenes are often so
vivid they make you squirm in your chair as you peek through the gaps in your
fingers to read every word you thought you did not want to see.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I see from the comments on Amazon that some people prefer
not to see explicit scenes but they are finding their way into many of the
books these days. Men and women are titillated by these bold descriptions and
curious about some of the alternate sexual lifestyles presented. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Authors are using sex to help draw attention to their works
as less people read and more and more books are released.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I am no stranger to reading and writing adult and erotic
short stories. One does become ‘desensitized’ after a while and finds
themselves skimming the sex to get back to the plot but I still get caught up
in the scenes from time to time. The old adage going around Facebook as a meme is
routed in truth: “Women who read romance novels tend make their husbands very satisfied
at night” or something to that effect. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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It is not simply the descriptions of the sex act that fills
these romance books today but the teasing and flirting in the dialog and the
narrative. Chat room talk to strangers and innuendos set the stage for the
inevitable sex scenes. Tension does drive a story after all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIszziy92Xwg3CxJnIKaAesuWRUHHEbUeQscr2dIUUq7KJVj8tOJxZTHjZ5O7DXeKkPflvyx8Zb0DT9q-FJy-Tm8EjiSklK7cACPjNwm2nEmPEKLao6rXt8vHfhnBT8Kjsqz3pDs4XlY4/s1600/mon030031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIszziy92Xwg3CxJnIKaAesuWRUHHEbUeQscr2dIUUq7KJVj8tOJxZTHjZ5O7DXeKkPflvyx8Zb0DT9q-FJy-Tm8EjiSklK7cACPjNwm2nEmPEKLao6rXt8vHfhnBT8Kjsqz3pDs4XlY4/s1600/mon030031.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of bad erotica and romance
stories on the market by writers that think the sex is all that matters. However,
there are some real gems in the pile of books available if you look. The good
news is that authors in general are responsible enough now a days to tell
exactly what kind and how much sex is in their stories so people know before
buying them what to expect.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Please look over my BLOG archives for other stories to read.</b></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-43042542697938615622014-09-04T19:50:00.004-04:002014-09-05T08:04:13.267-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Learn to write part 3<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Self-Publishing<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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By: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is the <b>final part</b> of my blog for beginner writers. I am
going to assume you have written a novella or a novel. Let’s also assume it has
been edited and beta read by at least four people. You have tweaked and
rewritten your manuscript and finally you are happy with it. Remember to add
page numbers if you have not already done so. You will also want to have a
title and a description of what the story is about. What do you do now?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>With final draft in hand, you have basically two options. </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Option one: Try to get a publisher interested in your
manuscript eventually singing a contract with them to publish and promote your
work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Option two: Self publish your story as an independent
author.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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About option one: It is rare that an unknown author is going
to get a publisher to take on their book. If you are interested in trying this
route then I would suggest hiring a literary agent to do the work for you. This
is often a time consuming and costly process.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>Most writers will be going for option two these days.</b> There
are a number of places to self-publish but I am going to outline the process I
am most familiar with.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQeZYbwndguYUGzNVx57lIj5Z9YoCPyVTk2_JNFsP-Ed9h80hWtNzCaV9FQGFJHFijPfyBleElXWAa-BqU-dggJJE-_0hpnaWUKJK0-m8IoQ9yCUaCyu_d5gUrHcNZ5D0-UNI9oJSe8s/s1600/pub1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQeZYbwndguYUGzNVx57lIj5Z9YoCPyVTk2_JNFsP-Ed9h80hWtNzCaV9FQGFJHFijPfyBleElXWAa-BqU-dggJJE-_0hpnaWUKJK0-m8IoQ9yCUaCyu_d5gUrHcNZ5D0-UNI9oJSe8s/s1600/pub1.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used <a href="https://www.createspace.com/">https://www.<b>createspace</b>.com</a>
because I think all books should be available in both print and digital
formats. You make up a password. They use your email address in place of a user
name. It costs nothing to join. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Before you upload your manuscript you will want to format it
for the size of the book you want. I chose 6x9 inch format. They have tutorials
and community pages to help you do this. I use M.S. Word so for me I had to
select 6x9 as the page size and set the margins as mirrored with a 1.5 in
interior and 1 in for top, bottom and exterior margins. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You will want to include a title page, copyright notice if
applicable and maybe a dedication or other information you want to add before the
first chapter. At the end of the book perhaps a little background about the
story or a biographical note about the author. Perhaps include links to your
blog or Facebook page if you want.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once you upload your manuscript Createspace will require 24
hours to check it to make sure interior file fits the book size and everything
looks alright. They will tell you how many pages your book will be and how wide
the spine will be to accommodate them. This information is used when designing
the cover. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Take your time and design a cover you are happy with. <o:p></o:p></div>
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An example for a book with a 1 inch thick spine follows. The
cover dimensions would be 6 (front) +6 (back) +1 (spine) or 13 in wide and 9 in
tall. You can make your own cover and upload it in adobe format or use the book
cover designer they have available for you. Either way, they have much
information to assist you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once cover and book are approved to fit properly you can
order a proof to look at. They will print one copy or more of your books for
about $5.00 each and mail them to you to look over. You do not have to approve
the finished book until you are happy with it. After you look the physical book
over and are satisfied, go online and click approve. You will then have the
option to make it also available for the Kindle (digital). They will submit the
files and help you because Amazon, Createspace and Kindle are all the same
company. You can have a printed copy in your hands and a book on Amazon in
paperback and Kindle in digital format for under $10.00 if you design your own
cover.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because the paperbacks are print on demand and the kindle
version is digital; you can change the interior files any time to make edits in
case you discover an error. The down time is only 24 hours.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I hope you enjoyed my short version of the entire process
from this three blog series.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<b>Check out my other blogs while you are here from my archives
by month on the right side of this page.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-39547390029637078502014-09-02T15:13:00.001-04:002014-09-06T12:36:59.689-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Learn to write part 2 </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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By: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
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I will assume that you read part 1 of this blog and that you wrote
at least one short story. If you did not write a short story, go back to part
one and write something. You cannot learn to write if you don’t try.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You now have a ‘first draft’ of your story. A lot of writers
will tell you that this is where the real writing begins, polishing your draft.
This is also called editing and rewriting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Many word processors like Microsoft Word will underline text
in red or blue that is used wrong or spelled wrong. In addition, many of these
have a spelling and grammar checker that will help you find possible mistakes
in your writing. I hesitate to use the word mistakes or errors here and these
programs will miss many things and ‘flag’ or color things that are alright or
passable. Still this will go a long ways toward helping you with grammar and
spelling. As a bonus, if you thought a sentence or word were fine and discover
what was wrong, you will be teaching yourself better grammar and spelling.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Certain web sites can also correct grammar, punctuation and
spelling. This site has a free trial but requires signing up for a monthly plan that you can cancel: <a href="http://www.grammarly.com/">http://www.grammarly.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Once you are satisfied that your short story is mostly polished,
have a friend or relative ‘proof it’ by reading it. Even though a story may be
free of spelling or grammar errors it may be confusing to read. You need
someone else to read it and let you know. It may not seem confusing to you, but
it needs to be clear to others also.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Make any necessary corrections and then you will be ready
for the final step.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XqbB0U70AzR576Qe_Gj2YgJuiqgV_U_5RgGhS3vEG8Uy2GJSvJoyuZQhQygUxSMMo_K_kWU3xh4_3IRFJYYSIWGw0DknMi3ol7IqgouW4De-ueM1uQkjfLXIwgZk2ZCjfaCiSpei8Mw/s1600/Typewriter+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XqbB0U70AzR576Qe_Gj2YgJuiqgV_U_5RgGhS3vEG8Uy2GJSvJoyuZQhQygUxSMMo_K_kWU3xh4_3IRFJYYSIWGw0DknMi3ol7IqgouW4De-ueM1uQkjfLXIwgZk2ZCjfaCiSpei8Mw/s1600/Typewriter+3.jpg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b>Post your story online and see what readers think of it.</b>
This can be Facebook, a blog or a website where writers post and others
comment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Places like:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.wattpad.com/">http://www.wattpad.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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or<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.booksie.com/">http://www.booksie.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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You don’t need a picture or even a bio if you don’t want to
post one yet. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You need a unique username like: NC17665 or Lucy2014 etc. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You need a password like: snowbunny41, or boogaloo4<o:p></o:p></div>
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Both of these are usually case sensitive. Write them down so
you remember.<o:p></o:p></div>
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About these sites: People often don’t comment on your work
unless you comment on theirs. This is good because it allows you to see how
other do things and you can build friendships in the writing community. Many
writers still use these sites for feedback and sharing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Part 3, the final part in this series is now posted.</b><br />
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<b>Look back in my archives for past blogs that might interest
you.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-40382206624700884022014-09-01T22:08:00.002-04:002014-10-28T11:43:54.382-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
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<b>Can I learn to write?</b>
Part 1 of 3</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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By: Joe P.
Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"The more you know, the more you realize that you
know nothing." - Unknown</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Some say this quote can be traced back to Plato or Socrates,
but Unknown will suffice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I am going to do a series of blogs about learning to write.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I dropped out of high school in the eleventh grade to join the
army. A better education will certainly help, but you can write without one, I
did. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When I started writing I realized how true this quote really
was. The reason or lesson behind this blog is the proverbial phrase, “If I can
do it, anyone can do it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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First you have to ask yourself this question. “<b>Do I have
something to say?</b>” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Before you answer let me ask you a few questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Do you like to tell someone about your dreams sometimes?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Do you like to tell jokes or stories to friends and family?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Can you chat on the phone for hours sometimes?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Can you talk to strangers in a waiting room?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Do you like to read?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Do you wish you could write?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am willing to bet most people can relate to at least one
of these questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Alright if you agree you have something to say then follow
along.<o:p></o:p></div>
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You next concern might be, “<b>Can I write?</b>”<o:p></o:p></div>
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English was my worst subject in school; grammar, spelling and
composition being the reason. Between reading, crossword puzzles, and an
interest in knowing the meaning of new words I came across; my vocabulary was
not too bad. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Some people write by hand and type it later or have someone
else do the typing. I prefer to type on the computer. Speed and accuracy are of
no concern here as you just want to get your ideas down to start. Trust me when
I say it can all be fixed later. Just get your thoughts down. Don’t worry about
spelling, grammar, elegance, style or composition. This can be fixed later. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Writing a novel can be a daunting task for a beginning writer.
It is rare for a new writer to have it in them to pluck away at a 50,000 to 120,000
word novel. I suggest short stories 500 to 7,000 words. Anywhere in that range until
the story seems done. If you are ambitious a novelette is 7,000 to17,000 words.
A novella runs 17,000 to 45,000 words. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The following is a partial list of literary genres:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Action, Adventure, Humor. Crime, Erotic, Fantasy, Historical,
Horror, Mystery, Paranormal, Philosophical, Political, Romance, Satire, Science
fiction, and Thriller.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My advice is to take a story that you have told before and put
it into words. Maybe the day you swam in a river for the first time. Or a funny
story about putting a metal pan in the microwave. Perhaps write about that camping
trip where you saw the bear. You must have some stories you enjoy telling.
Write one up. Just pretend you are writing it in a letter to a friend. You may
find writing is not so hard after all and you enjoy doing it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I will give a few ideas for a short story.<o:p></o:p></div>
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1. Write a story about Halloween.
It can be scary, funny, or whatever you like.<o:p></o:p></div>
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2. Write a fiction story about
meeting a celebrity. It can be anywhere or anybody.<o:p></o:p></div>
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3. Write a story about an injury
to yourself or someone you know.<o:p></o:p></div>
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4. Write a true short story about
a relative. Maybe something they told you happened to them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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5. Write a story
about something that happened in your childhood.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Parts 2 and 3 are now posted in this series. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Check out some of my other blogs while you are here.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-62102576523483007752014-08-30T12:12:00.004-04:002014-09-27T15:13:03.527-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Passion and Debate:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Thoughts by: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Let me start with some definitions
of these two words:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Passion:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for
something or about doing something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Strong amorous feeling or desire; love; ardor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Passion is when you put more energy into something
than is required to do it. It is more than just enthusiasm or excitement,
passion is ambition that is materialized into action to put as much heart, mind
body and soul into something as is possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Debate: </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A formal discussion on a particular topic in a public
meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Argue about (a subject), especially in a formal
manner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A discussion between people in which they express
different opinions about something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">To engage <u>in</u> argument by discussing opposing points.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(5)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">a discussion between people in which they express
different opinions about something<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">(6)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A debate can be an organized event, an informal
discussion between two or more people, or a general discussion that involves
many people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I am all for passion. Those
that know me have heard me say many times that I despise apathy. For those few
that do not know what apathy is I will list a definition for you. Apathy is a lack
of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I don’t know how people that
don’t care about anything can consider that they are alive. Consciousness
dictates interest, concern and care about most things around us in my opinion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I have mixed feelings about
debate. In theory I suppose debate is healthy in that it presents different
opinions and facts about the subject that is being debated. The reason I say I have
mixed feelings is that in my experience debate has often led to hard feelings.
These hard feelings can destroy relationships; be they family, friends, or
acquaintances. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Another difficulty I find
with debates is “when” they are considered ended. Often one party is not
willing to declare a debate over until the other side concedes to their points.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>This brings me to my blog topic
for today.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Passion and Debate mix as
well as Oil and Water. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I think a debate should have
rules. Perhaps be limited to a certain amount of time or number of points. This
should be agreed on beforehand. I also think a person should be able to “agree
to disagree” in some cases and end all discussion by making that statement. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I know some people that enjoy
debating just about anything with their friends. They revel in presenting pros
and cons for hours. They get to exhibit there knowledge and expertise and truly
enjoy the whole experience. I say, “Good for you if that is your thing.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">To me, debate is just a fancy
word for argue until you prove yourself right. Although I am passionate about a
great many things, you will rarely find me willing to debate my point. I don’t
like the confrontation. I will state my opinion and you can agree or disagree.
Try to debate with me and “I will pass”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">As has been my habit in the
past I will share a poem on passion, I never wrote one on debate.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion <o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">By: Joe P. Attanasio</span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">**</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">**</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion, part of sex for sure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Strong desires are a lure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A love that is compelling</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Feelings that are swelling</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion makes us feel alive</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Energy fueling overdrive</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Pushing us because we care</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Rewarding us, if we dare</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion is the ultimate focus</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Not just simply hocus pocus</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Energizing certain feelings</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Crushing imaginary ceilings</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion can overcome fear</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It can only be, sincere</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Enabling us to reach a goal</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Sustaining our very soul</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Passion can be over anything</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Politics, religion, even spring</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Whatever’s important to you</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Give it your all, See it through</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Without passion, life is bland</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We don’t move, or even stand</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Give yourself a little spice</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Be alive; live your life</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">*</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As always I invite you to
read my other blogs. If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a message here then
go to my Facebook page and private message me. The link is in the upper right
corner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-67324066378117904252014-08-29T14:37:00.001-04:002014-08-29T14:40:20.480-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Alternate sexual
lifestyles:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Musings by: Joe P. Attanasio<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am, what one might call, an old fashioned heterosexual
male. I grew up with Christian teachings both in school and at home. The
subject of alternate lifestyles was never discussed in either place. We knew
there were “gay” people in the world. That is the name we used when referring to
them in the late 50’s and early 60’s. The word “queer” was around but it had such
a degrading connotation to it that most people I knew avoided using it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There was no hatred felt or expressed toward gay people
among my friends. They simply had different feelings of what they were
attracted to. In other words, sixty years ago we accepted them as friends for
who they were not what they believed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>In today’s world (real
life and literature) there are many alternate sexual lifestyles:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Polyamory is gaining popularity. In Polyamory relationships it
is not uncommon to have multiple significant others. This is an emotional
connection with multiple partners, and overcoming jealousy to have meaningful
relationships with each of their partners.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sadomasochism (S&M) is usually combined with Bondage,
Dominance/discipline, Sadism/slave and Masochism/master (BDSM).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgender are often referred to using
the initialism LGBT and often refers to anyone who is non-heterosexual.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gender Fluid is a gender identity best described as a
dynamic mix of boy and girl. A person who is Gender Fluid may always feel like
a mix of the two traditional genders, but may feel more boy some days, and more
girl other days.<br />
Being Gender Fluid has nothing to do with which set of genitalia one has, nor
their sexual orientation.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>The truth is that the alternative sexual lifestyles of
yesterday are becoming mainstream at a steady pace in today’s society.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Regardless of spiritual beliefs or social opinion, the
people involved in “alternate sexual lifestyles” are first and foremost PEOPLE.
As such they deserve the same respect and love that we should show all people. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GlI_nX-u1bJIqHBjg5lxrgRNpXHdLTK6BWkrQdVP1tQM_jANyCCAFlV-aIQJZIIh3CZXSxO8jdcXwirg_3Fdjc6qzI-Y0372xEXMG07o-YdKbLrXG99_oq_76_bOQk2kfzZIobZhGlw/s1600/alt+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GlI_nX-u1bJIqHBjg5lxrgRNpXHdLTK6BWkrQdVP1tQM_jANyCCAFlV-aIQJZIIh3CZXSxO8jdcXwirg_3Fdjc6qzI-Y0372xEXMG07o-YdKbLrXG99_oq_76_bOQk2kfzZIobZhGlw/s1600/alt+copy.jpg" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>
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I am sharing a poem I wrote a few years ago that deals with
this subject.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Not always a choice!<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">BY: Joe P. Attanasio</span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br /></span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Sexual orientation is
not a choice</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">That people just decide
to voice</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It is all a matter of
how one feels</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Who arouses you, who
appeals</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">To yourself, you must
submit</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Not always easy to admit</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Social and peer pressure
felt</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Retributions, might be
dealt</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Some accept, some feel
strange</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">And wish that they could
change</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">But inside; the way you
feel</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Can’t be changed, just
by zeal</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We are all born a
certain way</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Feelings we cannot
betray</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If we try to contradict</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Forever we’ll be in
conflict</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Embrace who and what you
are</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Don’t shy away; grab
that star</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">You do; what you have to
do</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">To let peace and
happiness come through</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Check out my other blogs too!<br />
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752288951905907883.post-46814999597721624092014-08-28T20:31:00.002-04:002014-08-28T20:34:02.436-04:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We all keep secrets during our life at one time or
another. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b>SECRET:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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1.<b> </b>Something
that is kept or meant to be kept unknown or unseen by others.<o:p></o:p></div>
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2. Done, made, or conducted without the knowledge of others<o:p></o:p></div>
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3. Kept from the knowledge of any but the initiated or
privileged<o:p></o:p></div>
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4. Operating in a hidden or confidential manner.<o:p></o:p></div>
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5. Dependably discreet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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These don’t have to be sinister or earth shattering. We
could be talking a rip in your pants. Perhaps you keep certain aspects of your
religious beliefs from your friends for various reasons. You might have intimate
dreams about your neighbor that you would rather not discuss. Maybe you have a
habit that you would rather not share. You might secretly dislike a person in
your social group of ‘friends’. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Secrets vary in size and importance from small to huge. Some
are morally and even legally wrong to keep. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We must be very careful when dealing with other people’s secrets
that we become aware of from them, or by accident.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I wrote this poem on secrets a few years ago and wanted to share
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Secrets</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">By: Joe Attanasio</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We all have secrets
hidden away</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Some we keep for others,
to not betray</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Knowledge not to be
openly shared</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Information we wish not
declared</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Some we take to our
grave</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">No hint of which we ever
gave</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">When a secret is shared
with you</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">You’re trusted to keep it
too</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A secret, some people
can’t keep</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Through all their
friends it will sweep</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Some secrets have to be
told</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Legally and morally
wrong to hold</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A secret that is
discovered by you</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Should certainly be
thought through</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It may be something to
just forget</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Or someone in trouble,
you might get</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We think and do things
we don’t want to share</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If exposed it could be
too much to bear.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Some secrets are fun and
just for play</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Others very serious and
heavily weigh</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">“Can you keep a secret?”
someone might ask</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Better be sure you’re up
to the task</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Most people
automatically say “yes”</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Not thinking the secret
might cause them stress</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Keeping some secrets
seem unjust</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If you don’t tell
someone, you will bust</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If the secret is gossip
and a juicy bit</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Spreading it around
would be unfit</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I hold many secrets
inside of me</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Both my own and for
others you see</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">People confide in me and
trust me for sure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">They need to tell
someone, I keep it secure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If you say “I have no
secrets”, I know</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">That like Pinnochio,
your nose will grow</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">May all your secrets
stay safe and secure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Any never be told until
you are sure</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Joe P. Attanasiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16048167467276129474noreply@blogger.com0