The Narrative Technique of Poe’s Horror Stories

Angela L. Rhea Professor Mack ENGL-2327-XQ2 American Literature I February 28, 2013 The Narrative Technique of Poe’s Horror Stories Edgar Allan Poe writes â€Å"The Black Cat† (695) and â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart† (691) in a narrative voice. In writing the stories he uses the narrator to tell about what happened and the acts that were involved when he did what he did. When telling the stories in first person as Poe did, it is hard to determine the real from the false in this type of narrative, as it was with Poe too. He told his stories from the mind of a madman, per se.He tells both stories from the mind of a mentally ill person or from a diseased mind as in â€Å"The Tell-Tale Heart†. The disease had sharpened my senses, not destroyed, not dulled them. (The Tell Tale Hears, 692)He talks about his disease, referring to his alcoholism being a mental disease. He proves many times throughout the story that he is a mad man. He talks about killing the old man b ecause his eye reminded him of a bird, just the craziness of the human psyche. Poe has a way of showing and defining the human psyche in a demonic fashion.And yet at the same time act like he is not mad and that is what any normal person would do if they are bothered by something or someone. And he shows realism in doing these acts because of how he shows the human emotion in â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart†: â€Å"Yet for some minutes longer, I refrained and kept still. But the beating grew louder, louder! I thought the hear must burst. (The Tell Tale Heart, 693) When he was describing the guilt he had after killing the man. He thought it was his heart beating when in fact; it was his own heart pounding and pounding.These events support the idea that he is mad and confirms the fact that we do not know the reliability of the story at all. Edgar Allan Poe chose to tell his stories the way he did so that he would give the impression that he was not trustworthy. This works towards hi s efforts and would not be the same if told in present tense. Knowing this helps with the message of the story the author is trying to get across as in â€Å"The Black Cat†, â€Å"For the most wild, yet most homely narrative, which I am about to pen, I neither expect nor solicit belief. (The Black Cat, 695) Here at the beginning of the story he leaves you wondering about the credibility of the details and curious if you can trust his story. Edgar Allan Poe wants us to experience the mystery and the climax and surprise that he presents in telling the story. He will start the story with what seems to be a hint of honesty. In â€Å"The Black Cat†, he tells you about his childhood, â€Å"From my infancy I was noted for the docility and humanity of my disposition. My tenderness of heart was even so conspicuous as to make me the jest of my companions. (695) Then he immediately tells you of his alcoholism in â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart†. Poe does not suggest that any o f this would label him as a mad man. He is all to proud of himself on how he was able to come up with the plot in â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart† when he stated, â€Å"You should have see how wisely I proceeded with what caution, with what foresight, wit what dissimulation I went to work! † Poe uses the narration to build up the suspense of the stories and how his human nature was pushed to the limits with the old man’s eye and with the black cat and the return of the black cat.He builds up the suspense and then leaves you a bit feeling sorry for him and trying to understand why he did what he did. Then he goes on to act like he has no feeling whatsoever about the killings. The he is almost justified, I mean, wouldn’t you be if you were him? And then human again as he narrates the apparent guilt he felt over the acts as being the key that ultimately got him caught. His mind played tricks on him and he didn’t notice it. http://www. sparknotes. com/lit/po estories/section8. rhtml MLA Citation â€Å"The Narrative Technique Of Edgar Allan Poe†. Anti Essays. 28 Feb. 2013

Harrison Bergeron Essay

Kurt Vonnegut’s fictional society adopted the theories of Social Contract and Social Justice to establish a new social and legal order. The people amended the constitution to attain equality for all. With the amendments, they created laws to make a uniform citizenry out of their people and in the process stripped them of their individuality. These laws were also intended to make them think and act alike which was their idea of equality. As to who is benefited from such extreme version of social control depends on whose viewpoint it was coming from. Despite their unrestricted freedoms no one was ultimately benefited in this kind of system. It was no guarantee of peace and absolute control, as in the case of Harrison. His physical and mental states were no match for the handicaps. Once both powers were unleashed and unrestrained what resulted was a blending and coordination that produced a beautiful symphony of dance and music. It was symbolical of the good things that can happen or that can be achieved if we let our natural gifts, talents and skills work for the common good. There can be unity in diversity and peaceful co-existence may be possible. In a controlled society as this fictional one, there were no norms, values, and culture that may identify them. For norms, values and culture were what will set them apart. This was a robotic society where the norms were that which are forced upon them because of the handicaps some were made to wear. Acceptable norms were absent because the standard (equality) was built into the system. In effect one had a common standard to follow in which to comport oneself, no less and no better that the others. There was only one value that stood, no one was above the other in appearance and in the treatment he gave and he got. Culture should define who and what this society was, but what would make it truly unique? There was nothing neither appealing nor interesting in it because everything went against the natural ways of man. People followed rules not out of their volition. How were they to know the good was turning bad, and worse was turning worst, if something in their brains signaled a censure. This restraint was basically against their good and benefit, but they had no choice but to obey what was programmed in their system. Once, this was a society that had reached the extreme end of the balance with their all-out freedoms and unchecked rights of individuals. The situation had reached unmanageable proportion that they had to resort to dramatic crisis control which brought them to the other extreme end by way of the encroachment on their rights and freedoms. This society took not only the people’s freedoms but their right senses as well. In what they figure to be the correct moves to effect change, their agitation towards a freak of nature was alarming, like when â€Å"some things about living weren’t quite right †¦ April not being Springtime† (Vonnegut, 1961). Law and society have interchangeable attributes. Law may change a society and society may change the law. In the case of Harrison Bergeron, society had made 3 amendments to their constitution out of desire for and necessity to change. They wanted to regulate and curb freedoms to a comfortable magnitude. The change in the law made this society a strictly tempered one. Lawyers and the legal system do not have a place in this society anymore. The Handicapper General proceeded to punish without trial law breakers. The only crime that can be committed was taking one’s handicaps off and that did not need investigation and defense. The crime and the criminal are self-evident. The fictional society does not have any direct similarities in today’s time. However, the inference to the curtailment of freedoms is plenty. When a society does not allow an artist to express his heart in his art, the Harrison Bergerons to criticize the government which should be for, by and of the people, and ease the fear of ordinary citizens, they are the translations of Vonnegut’s transgressions of freedoms in his fictional society. Instead of seeking for equality in the extreme, working with diversity might be the better option.

American history Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 3

American history - Essay Example It is very evident from different periods that different historical period has left its marks on American economy. All those periods have laid strong base for modern world’s economic super power. Colonial American economy was mainly driven by agriculture. The country tilted towards industrialization from the time of independence. All the industrialization was expanded in 18th century. It started long back in 1776. In that period economy of time 13 original colonies were very strong and stable. At this point of time the country faces great economic expansion as number of population increased and lots of foreign people in fluxed in to the country. People of America became very self sufficient which gave huge boast to their economy. Due to its strategic geographical location, abundant of natural resources has attracted lots of foreigners in to the country. Massachusetts was a great shipping hub. Virginia was an attractive place for business ventures. Fur industry and fishing industry has boosted the local economy very much. Increasing population and foreign trade has developed the American economy at that stage. It was the starting time of global power shifting. At that point o f time white free Americans were accustomed with higher life styles (French 149). In that colonial period people of America earned their livelihood on the basis of small farms. As the colonies grew small local industries like gristmills and sawmills came up. Entrepreneurs started their business endeavours. People started farming rice, grew tobacco and indigo. Building ships and sailing them also was very common for creating wealth. It was a very important phase for economic development in America. It is the time when American people started to unleash their entrepreneurial skills. Americans were fighting for their rights with British people. Britain refused American demand of equality. Americans decided

Business Of The Resale Stores Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 12000 words

Business Of The Resale Stores - Dissertation Example Once this has been done, we will be doing a market segmentation to target our potential customers. Once this has been done, we will design the various strategies required to influence the customers. A detailed plan of how the organization work towards the achievement of its strategic goals and objectives is the operational plan for the business. It provides a clear picture of how the people, teams and the departments of the organizations are collectively working together or the purpose of the business. Finance or the starting capital is the most important thing without which no business can start. Finance is the combination of the acquiring, allocation and the proper management of funds that will actually combine to help in the fulfillment of any business. The financial plan helps the managers to go about with the entire project. It shows the managers and helps them in identifying the different sources of capital and how it can be collected and allocated so that the business may be conducted in a proper fashion. It helps the company to identify the different sources of the capital and how these sources can be properly utilized to actually formulate the business. It also helps in designing and defining the exact way in which the money should be allotted so that the business will be able to breakeven faster and would be successful. In recent times due to the impact of the recession and the inflation on a worldwide basis the consignment shop or resale store is a one-stop solution to all the buyer-seller problems. This is because initially a consignment store or a resale shop is actually a resale business which involves three parties. They are the goods owner or the consignor, the consignee or the seller and the buyer of the resold goods the customer. Goods that are resold or consigned generally are clothes, luxury items, and antiques.

Economic news analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Economic news analysis - Essay Example It has been reported that employers in America increased the number of jobs positions. However, despite the above increase in job positions, most of the applicants could not meet the required level of competencies to do the jobs (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, para1-10). This trend has made the rate of unemployment to remain significantly high at a rate of 7.9% (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, para-9). Additionally, majority of the older employees within an age bracket of 45 to 54 years were unwilling to shift to the new job positions (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, para1-10). Therefore, it was not a wonder to see some few people coming out to compete for the new jobs as employment positions increases (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, para3).The article has further provided a description of what could have attributed a decline in number of unemployed people in the United state. Analysis According to Bloomberg report most the employers find it challenging to find a qualified employee who can feel a job need (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, Para 7). Therefore, most employers opted to approach staffing agency firm for recruitment assistance (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, Para 7). It was reported that about one hundred and sixty jobs were created on February this year, however despite this increase the rate of unemployment remained at 7.6 % (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, Para 9). ... Additionally, frictional unemployment may be experienced among people who have left their jobs and are looking for other better jobs (Mankiw, Nicholas, p 606). The rate of unemployment may be determined using the formula below; Unemployment Rate = Number of unemployed people ?100 Total labor force/civilian labor force Source: (Tucker, p-261) Whereby; Labor forces also commonly referred to civilian labor force involves to those people within employment age and below the retirement age that are either working or are actively looking for a job (Tucker, p-261). Frictional unemployment may be presented graphically as shown below; Wages W0 R2 R1 w2 w1 w3 T0 T2 T1 Duration of labor Source: Author Based on the above graph it can be scrutinized how frictional employment occurs given the level of wages. The wages increases from W1 to W2 while duration of labor decreases from T1 to T2 as more people are willing to work with the available wage rates. In above connection, the professor of economi cs at Northwestern University Illinois (Mortensen) asserted that American labor market has remained flexible due to application of monetary measures. However, inflation rates were projected to increase (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, para3-4). This indicates that as unemployment problems were being addressed inflation rates tend to increases as explained in the Philips curve (Mankiw & Nicholas p-606). Additionally, Fed chief asserted that a long period of unemployment may cause workers to lose some working skills and this can lead to a decline in firms’ productivity (Steve, Rich & Jeanna, Para 10). Fed further asserted that the number of people who remained unemployed for a period of more than 27 weeks reduced in the year 2010 from 6.7 millions to 4.7 million

Mobile computing and wireless communication Essay

Mobile computing and wireless communication - Essay Example This exploratory approach towards making things small yet sophisticated promises much more for the future. While analyzing the evolution [2] of mobile technology, it can be safely assumed that the size and power consumption patterns are on a decline while the bandwidths available for communication will continue to increase. Such trends lead us to believe that mobile communication is bound to play an increasingly important role in everyday life through a variety of new applications often referred to as "ubiquitous or pervasive" computing. The emergence of powerful portable computing devices, along with the advances in wireless communication technologies, has made mobile computing a reality. Sensor Networks: One typical application for mobile communication is the sensor network, used for gathering information about the surroundings of the mobile equipment. Such a network consists of small integrated devices scattered over a specified area in order to collect and share information. The goal in undertaking such exercise is to discretely observe, augment, analyze or control an environment in an automated manner. Mobile networks got further enhancement with the help of wireless communication and sophisticated sensors. ... work on the basis of fixed cell based infrastructure. Coverage is provided by base stations which manage the radio resources from a central location thus integrating the services. Depending upon the area being covered by the cell, certain amount of bandwidth is allocated for mobile subscribers. These cells make use of location-based routing protocols for transfer of information packets from sources to destination. Depending upon the bandwidth allocated, an upper limit is fixed for the number of subscribers that one cell can support. Sensor networks, in particular require to support a large number of 'subscribers', resulting in an increase in density per cell. Such networks are often used for short-range temporary communication. Therefore, implementing an infrastructure supporting such a large sensor network becomes very expensive. Mobile ad hoc networks [3, 4] on the other hand allow direct communication between wireless devices operating within the nearby areas and short distances of each other. Such devices prove to be very useful in disaster prone areas. In case of disaster, whole communication infrastructure may be destroyed. In such cases the intercommunicating ability of mobile ad-hoc networks within short range proves to be very useful. For communicating between two mobile devices which are located beyond range are the method of forward messaging messages via intermediate neighbors is used. Decentralization of an ad hoc communication network also eliminates the need for a fixed infrastructure, and results in greater cost reductions. The most widespread notion of a mobile ad hoc network is a network formed without any central administration which consists of mobile nodes that use a wireless interface to send data

Sustainable transportation paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Sustainable transportation paper - Essay Example The evaluation of the organization’s future performance, as this issue is addressed in Question 3 of the paper, would be based on the information related to urban transportation, as released in the literature. By 2040 the changes developed in Portland are many. These changes have resulted to the transformation of the city’s transportation system. Reference is made specifically to the radical increase of passengers using TriMet for their work trips in Portland. This trend can be related to specific practices adopted by TriMet; these practices have led to the increase of the organization’s ridership by 20% between 2010 and 2040. TriMet has primarily focused on the quality and safety of its infrastructure. When referring to transport, quality is an important criteria for choosing a means of transportation (Karner and Niemeier 2013). In this context, TriMet’s project for the update/ improvement of its network has been based on the Accessibility-Based Approach to Planning. In order for an urban planning project to secure accessibility it needs to meet the above two criteria: ‘mobility and proximity’ (Cervero 2005, p.1). Mobility, as an element of accessibility, shows the easiness in getting from one point to the other, mostly in regard to time spent for completing the relevant trip (Cervero 2005). As for proximity, this term implies the limitation of distance between two points/ areas; this limitation is usually achieved either by using transport means of advanced technology or by developing transport infrastructure, such as bridges etc., that can reduce distance in trips (Cervero 2005, p.1 ). Under these terms, in 2040 people in Portland prefer TriMet in their work trips since they can save significant time in reaching their destination especially since the improvements made in the city’s infrastructure system have emphasized to mobility and

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

Water wave - Research Paper Example Thirdly, it was found out that water waves are divided into three main groups namely: Shallow water wave, Intermediate depth wave, and Deep water wave. It was found out that the distinction between shallow water waves and deep water waves is not associated with oceans’ or seas’ absolute depth. The distinction is usually determined with the ratio of depth of water to wave’s wavelength. Finally, the research paper found that molecules of water in water waver normally exhibit circular motion (orbit) in deep sea water wave, and as the depth of ocean or sea increases, the diameter of the orbit decreases. A disturbance of any type on water (be it on the surface of water, in the water or at the bottom of the water) normally causes wave; this wave is known as water wave. These disturbances on water may include: a pebble that strikes the surface of the water, earthquake, boat movement or even wind among others (Dingemans, 2007). When an individual stands at a beach and closely observe how water waves break and roll in, or even observe surface of disturbed water, the individual might see that the disturbed water is actually travelling towards the shore, or towards the boundaries of the container that holds the disturbed water (Stoker, 2011). Actually no water is moving towards the shore or the boundary of the container that holds the water. When a closer look is made on an object that floats on the water, it is observed that the object moves towards the shore or towards the boundary of the container on the wave crest, and moves the same distance away from the shore with the wave trough ( Hermans, 2011). Several researches have been done regarding the properties of water wave. These properties include: the pattern of water waves, water wave wavelength, water wave frequency, water wave amplitude, types of water wave, what

Criminal Investigation Project Essay Example for Free

Criminal Investigation Project Essay In this generation, all human being have to work to earn for living. However it is not possible for us to be able to do any kind of work. That is why work been divided into physical work and intellectual limitation. An individual’s personality can be exposed through the job that he or she is engaged with. This enables the particular person to improve his/her level of maturation, skills and talents. The most reason that lead psychologist, sociologist, anthropologists, economists is because of the company want a result of earning obtain with giving special attention to human factor, if people are at low level in terms of work value for example lack of skills, knowledge, personality, professional, experience, motivation, everything is useless. First terms of general psychology, and where warranted by special mention is â€Å"occupational psychology†. They prefer to use term â€Å"occupational psychology† because it seems more comprehensive and it include â€Å"occupational psychology† and â€Å"organizational and management psychology†. General psychology about the human personality Generally when dealing with human personalities issue, the presentation will full with sides, component, and aspect. There is no doubt with usefulness of every piece presentation of this psychological reality. Important things they should not lose sight of the whole structure. In reality personality component interact with each other, related with each other, giving birth to structure that already specific by architecture. To actual existence of individual with the matters not the presence or absence of one of these sides, not the degree of development but its own way as it is structure. That is why psychology should focus on personality, structure that lead to a psycho-behavioural level, and lead to many effects. Personality which mediates perception and acceptance of external influence, it integrates them into levers. Its leaves mark on psychology phenomena on any reaction, even on human face. Only man has personality and as it arises and develops it produces the following effect: * Stabilize conduct * Unitary direction * Provides consensus though and fact, project and realizations * Adapts them to the present, but also on future * Exploits all opportunities and human capabilities * Makes deep involvement in dealing with people, tending to its creative transformation Personality is not present at birth. It is formed from the age of three and it is also based on environment around them, it is also not simply a psychological aspect of human life, but totality of diverse and numerous components. Therefore, one personality with full knowledge is not easy and also not good for mentality. Although comprising large number of components, personality is not simply their sum, but whole is based on human behaviour, should direct and lead them in relation to the environment. Features of personality as a whole is common to all, the organization of elements, is the level of development from person to person, personality is unique and original in each of human being that is why everyone have different personality. Personality is strongly determined and conditioned by man’s social existence. Socio cultural framework does not appear with all personality and self-organization. Personality is being influence by micro-environment, so if the micro-environment is good then the personality will be good and if not will be otherwise. All kind of personality traits are related with each other, it is very strong and its form, the fact, the structure. It develops over time and differs from one person to another person based on: * Level of development its component * Level of integration of element in whole personality * Stability of the structure of personality Personality operates like system 24 hours every day even in sleeping, its alive and dynamic. There are close relation and been organized in hierarchy, relation between them is substantial-energetic, functional, direct and reverse information. Activity is important of existence of man and his psychic, the one that lead to sedimentation and mental crystallization, emerge of relatively changes of structure. In analogy to the resolute-productive mechanisms of the transformative-constructive finalities and activities, in the structure of personality the resolute-productive subsystem is developing. Subsystem might be placed on edge of instrumental subsystem. Analogy constructed personality structure with human activity seems to be the most suitable for organizational and management psychology. Approach perspectives to personality In practical analysis and interpretation of reality, it may be a physical, human or social, the great importance is the theoretical concept of where it starts, and human personality study is more complex and dynamic. â€Å"Treaties of the psychology of personality settle to stock, to present a descriptive manner, theoretical models, sometimes associated methods and, rarely, to propose explanatory models, integrationist, combination of models, theories, schools or methods† (by Anita, 2000, pg18). * Golu .M (1993) identifies four main orientations in the study of personality: * Biologist orientation * Experimentalist orientation * Psychometric orientation * Sociocultural and anthropological orientation * Zlate M. (1997) conducted a survey of the main insights of the personality approach and systematized them into four board categories: * Atomistic perspective * Structural perspective * Systematic perspective * Psychosocial perspective FIRST PAGE Conducting Successful Interrogations By David Vessel, J. D.,FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Oct. 1998. Obtaining information that an individual does not want to provide constitutes the sole purpose of an interrogation. A successful interrogation results in a guilty or involved criminal suspects making a confession or admitting participation in an illegal activity. However, interrogators frequently do not acquire information critical to successful case resolution. Often, guilty suspects leave the interrogation environment without making the smallest admission. Many experienced officers leave an interview or interrogation knowingly outwitted by the suspects. When these situations occur, criminals go unpunished and remain free to strike again, causing the entire community to suffer. Interrogations can fail for any number of reasons. Some reasons are foreseeable; some are not. However, interrogators can increase their success rates by eliminating or minimizing identifiable causes of failure. Once investigators have identified these factors, they can consider and act upon them to increase the probability of successful interrogations. These major components include preparing for the interrogation, distinguishing between interrogations and interviews, developing persuasive themes and arguments, establishing a set plan, building a good relationship with the interrogation subject, allowing enough time for the interrogation, acquiring adequate interrogation training, and understanding that some interrogations will fail regardless of any amount of effort employed. While not all-inclusive, these factors prove vital to successful interrogations. LAST PAGE CONCLUSION Interrogations fail for any number of reasons. Addressing and eliminating the interrelated, identifiable causes can prevent most failures. Preparing adequately, understanding the interrogation process, and appreciating the subjects needs and values remain paramount in achieving successful interrogations. Additionally, sufficient training and ample experience in conducting interrogations provide specific assistance to investigators involved in the process. Establishing a well-developed plan and allowing sufficient time for the interrogation to evolve also prove important factors in ensuring successful interrogations. All of these elements need constant attention for investigators to acquire the information critical to successfully resolve their cases. Properly addressing these factors greatly contributes to increasing the number of confessions obtained from guilty or involved suspects and to reducing the number of times officers are duped by these individuals. While interrogation failures impact all aspects of the criminal justice system, the investigators conducting these inquiries remain the most critical factor in reducing these failures. With adequate training, increased awareness, and established plans officers can become successful interrogators and effectively reduce the number of unsolved crimes that plague not only the law enforcement community but also the general, law-abiding population. SUMMARY CONDUCTING SUCCESSFUL INTERROGATIONS Interviewing is one form of communication that is used extensively by the law enforcement. Whether used to screen applicants, to elicit information from a witness to a crime, or to obtain a confession, a good interview can have a significant impact on an organization. However, if conducted improperly, the interview may be rendered worthless or can result in serious negative consequences for all involved. There can be many reasons why interrogations fail, some foreseeable, some not. But by eliminating and minimizing identifiable causes of failure such as preparing for the interrogation, establishing a set plan, building a good relationship with the interrogation subject etc., investigators can have a more higher rate of success. The important factors when conducting an interrogation:- Preparing the Investigation The most important factor is developing a preparation plan. Factors to consider when preparing this plan are the setting and environment, knowledge of case facts, familiarity with subjects’ backgrounds, and methods of documenting confessions. Setting and Environmental Consideration It is important that the investigator be in control of not only the flow of the interrogation but also the environmental setting such as a small, controlled, sound-insulated room that is free from diversions. This ensures that the suspects are only allowed to concentrate on answering the relative questions. Case Facts Knowledge The investigator should have full knowledge of all the facts of the case as well as know which factors are the more important ones. When an investigator is able to state out these facts confidently and with proof, the subjects are more likely to provide the necessary vital information. Familiarity with Subjects Backgrounds Having good knowledge of a subject’s background, such as their feelings, attitude and personal values as subjects usually make confessions based on how they feel then defend themselves with logic. Documenting Confessions Officers/investigators should settle all details regarding the documentation of the interrogation that is the video or audio recordings as well as written documentation, before beginning the interrogation so as to not make the subject feel unimportant and lead to an unsuccessful interrogation. Distinguishing Between Interrogation and Interviews There should be a clear distinction between an interview and an interrogation. An interview should always be conducted first before deciding on an interrogation. Interviews are done to get all the most basic information of the suspects’ involvement of a case. Once it is confirmed that the suspect is involved only then should they proceed to an interrogation. Developing Persuasive Themes and Arguments It is important to have the proper arguments and themes in persuading the subject to tell the truth. Three points stated that will help to make the interview successful in this area are first, investigators should gain more experience as every interview conducted provides different ideas. Second is planning their themes and arguments so as to tackle the subject into answering inquiries, but in a legal way. Third would be conducting good first interviews and identifying the subjects’ key responses, allowing there to be plenty of topics to be converted into themes.

The video shop like letters Essay Example for Free

The video shop like letters Essay The task is to create a logo that can promote the video shop, and be put on all to do with the video shop like letters. My logo should be simple but effective, and not to cheesy. It should catch peoples eye, and make them want to read on. I will try to do this with colour and pictures. Software Requirements The software I choose must be able to: Â  Import pictures, so that I can actually create the logo. Â  Move and edit pictures, so that the logo can be tweaked, and the pictures do not stay as their original. Input text, so that the logo has text as well as pictures and so the name Mercury Entertainment can be on the logo. Shade pictures, so that I can make the logo look and have a professional feel. Â  Overlap and underlay objects, again to create a stylish look, and make the logo look the best it can. Change the text colour, font, and size, so that I do not have to keep boring Arial text, and can make a good logo. Â  Convert to pictures, so that I can save the copy as a jpeg file, to save space and time loading the original file, and then copying it from there. I could produce the logo using a word processor. This is a limited, but simple way of doing the logo. It can do everything above, apart from edit pictures in the way that other programs can do. It can wrap text, and edit the brightness, but it cannot edit pictures in the most expert technique that I want, for example, fading different parts of the graphic, or overlapping objects. It would be able to produce the logo, but it might not be as good as if I used another program. I need it to look the best I can because I want to promote the business as much as possible. I could produce the logo using MS Paint , but this a very basic program, more so than the word processor. It does not have import feature, but you can use traditional copy and paste. It cannot overlap and underlay objects with a toolbar button, but of course, you will be able to by just placing one graphic over another. It cannot convert graphics to pictures either; well I cannot find a tool for it. I will produce the logo using Serif PagePlus 8, because it is the most expert program that I have to choose from, and it will help me to create the logo to the full quality. It can import pictures through the typical copy and paste, and through Insert Picture. It can move pictures through the normal method, by clicking and holding the left mouse button over the picture and then dragging it to where you want it to be. It can input text through the keyboard, just as any other program does. To shade a picture, you must highlight the picture and then click on the attributes tab on the right. Then there is a shade slide bar on the bottom, which you can slide to the right to shade lighter and right for heavier. It can over and under lap objects with the two buttons on the arrange toolbar, at the top: With these, the left sends the item to the back, and the right one brings the picture to the front. Text is edited in the standard way, by the toolbar at the top, or by clicking Format Character. It can convert things to pictures. You have to highlight the certain graphics you want to be a picture, and then click Tools Convert to Picture It will then come up with a box: Select JPEG from the combo box, as it provides a picture with small file size, and therefore easiest and fastest to work with. After this, it will be converted to a jpeg; however, it will be inside the page plus publication. To export the picture so that it is a new file, highlight the picture, and click File Export As Picture This will then open a new window, enabling you to save the picture as a certain format. I chose JPEG, because it has the smallest compression size at a 24-bit format. This will enable me to use it quickly and efficiently. Conclusion I am going to use Serif Page plus 8 for my logo, as it is the most professional and enables me to do things in which a word processor and MS Paint cannot. It is much easier to use from a graphic point of view, and it is not hard to put in text. I also know much more about it than I do a word processor or MS Paint, which makes it easier to work with. That means, if I use a word processor or MS Paint, it will be very time-consuming to find out how to do things that I am not sure about doing. Outline Plan I will type Mercury Entertainment straight into the package in a logo art format, so that it is more eye-catching, and can be changed to different shapes and colours, and can have shadows and backgrounds. I will get my graphics from Microsoft Office Design Gallery. This is because it has a wide selection of clipart and graphics, all available for download. I will bring them onto the page by copy and paste. When you download it, the picture appears in the clipart window, and you can easily highlight it, and then copy (Ctrl + C) and then go to the Page plus 8 windows and press (Ctrl + V) to import it onto the display. I will probably use Times New Roman, as it is the easiest to read, and the default font, that is not that boring. See below. I will then export the thing as a picture, after highlighting it, so it can be used universally. Appendix Trebuchet MS Nice font, easy-to-read, and practical. Tempus Sans ITC Sophisticated, but not that clear first time, better for wine lists. Times New Roman Very good, clear, definitely using this, it is very clear for all ages. Verdana Big, very clear, but it does not look attractive. Arial Easy-to-read, but plain, better for kids stories. Book Antiqua Very Attractive, but still clear, definitely using this. Calisto MT Much like Times New Roman, but more kid-like. Comic Sans MS Very plain and young. Graphite Light ATT Sophisticated and cool, but too narrow. Lucida Handwriting Very nice, but not too easy-to-read. Design of Promotion Logo Michael Boulter 11. 7.

Tourism Industry In Grenada Tourism Essay

Tourism Industry In Grenada Tourism Essay Tourism being the worlds largest and fastest growing industry, has survived many eras for many reasons. The industry is diverse and very easily adaptable. Diverse in this sense refers to the many varying segments making up the tourism industry, for example hospitality, dining, entertainment and travel. This industry is also challenging, from the point of view that each and every experience within this industry is uniquely different. These are some of the features that maintains and sustains this diverse and yet uniquely challenging industry. Tourism according to side store is the travel of anyone for predominantly recreational or leisure purposes or the provision of services to support this leisure travel (side store, 2009). The World Tourism Organization defines tourists as people who travel to and stay in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the place visited (WTO, 2010). Tourism in Grenada went through many eras before reaching the level at which it is today. One can basically say that there are three distinctive periods that tourism in Grenada passed through. These stages are the pre-revolutionary stage from 1955 to 1979, the revolutionary phase from 1980 to 1983 and the existing era which started in 1984. Each of these periods is marked with the occurrence of a major event in Grenadas history. The building of the St. Georges pier in 1939 and the opening of the Pearls Airport together presented a need for basic infra-structure that contributed to the introduction of tourism in a scientific manner to Grenada. However, there are only records to show the storage of visitors from 1955. The feat of the Grenada Revolution in 1979 didnt do well for Grenada as a destination. There was a sudden drop in arrivals from customary markets due to the negative publicity that was bestowed on Grenada as a result of these practices. Nevertheless, there was a bold move by the then Prime Minister, Maurice Bishop, who implored nationals abroad to Come to Grenada and see the positive changes that are happening. This proved a success in some way as there were arrivals of nationals and sympathizers from Eastern Europe and Cuba. The big opportunity for tourism in Grenada came at the start of its third epoch, which was marked by the opening of the brand new international airport. The fact that the airport was very close to world famous Grand Anse beach and other surrounding beaches resulted in a building boom. Unmistakably, this third stage of the development of tourism in Grenada concurred with the emergence of the industry internationally and Grenada has been progressing constantly as a tourist destination ever since. The tourism industry is presently the largest industry in Grenada, in desperation to sustain itself the officials are engaging in numerous strategies to do so. Grenada, as recently as 15 years ago, depended solely on Agriculture as their source of revenue, which was slowly declining. The officials responsible saw the potential of the tourism industry decided to change their focus away from agriculture. Thus investing money and ample time into the industry was their final decision. In this research my sole aim is to link the present global economic recession to Grenadas tourism sector. Determine the areas that were affected as a result of this crisis. Also examine similar countries facing this crisis, so as to reduce the bias on the paper. The tourism industry was affected by the Global recession in many ways which resulted in change in the countrys economy and industries linked to the tourism industry namely; loss of jobs, decline in travel both land and sea, closure of major tourist based businesses and increased crime. The existing economy of Grenada is termed unstable and on a decline, according to Mr. Lennox Andrews (Economist for Grenada). The countrys Gross domestic product is on a decline, in the sense it is below negative. This means that the total market value of final goods and products is less than equal to consumer goods and export goods. In light of this tourism within the country is also declining slowly and displayed inability to sustain itself. The author has therefore decided to do some primary research on the most commonly utilized areas within the tourism industry of Grenada. These areas being; Travel, Hospitality and Entertainment. The sectors were further broken down into samples, for example travel (LIAT), Hospitality accommodation (Grand view inn), Hospitality dining (Le Chateau) and entertainment (Taxi driver). To effectively accomplish this milestone the author has decided to ascertain a list of objectives: Give a history of the tourism industry in Grenada. Give a synopsis of the economy of Grenada. List and discuss the areas within the tourism industry in Grenada that were affected by the financial crisis. Make necessary recommendations. In efforts to help reduce the impact of the existing global recession on the tourism industry The author has come up some possible recommendations; Officials should sort ways to reduce government spending where possible. Implement a contingency fund. They should also seek to reduce the many taxes imposed. Try to optimize the use of recurrent revenue. Try to be self sufficient in their agriculture produce, avoid unnecessary imports. Create an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive. Implement programs to train persons to be versatile in terms of finding alternative employment. Topic: Research question: How has the present global financial crisis affected the tourism industry in Grenada? Aim: Carefully examine the areas within the tourism industry that was adversely affected by this global recession. Objectives: Give a history of the tourism industry in Grenada. Give a synopsis of the economic situation of Grenada. List and discuss the areas within the tourism industry in Grenada that were affected by the financial crisis. Make necessary recommendations. Rationale for the selection of the topic chosen: Like most persons, the global financial crisis has affected me personally. It has reduced my spending power immensely. Therefore it is a growing concern for me as an individual, as to just how long and far is this recession going to progress. Around the world today the issue of the financial crisis is the most popular issue at hand. Judging from the fact it is leaving many persons unemployed, homeless and dead, it should really be a global number one concern. This is the basis for which I have decided to carry out this research, with the hope of finding some logical recommendations. Research Methods: As a means of effectively completing this paper both primary and secondary research methods were utilized. The purpose for undertaking both methods is to avoid bias of information. At the same time give the participants an opportunity to freely express themselves. The authors intent is also to give readers an objective view of the topic. Sample population used: In carrying out research for this paper a suitable sample size was selected. Due to the fact that the tourism industry tends to be such a diverse area, which may involve numerous persons. The author sort it fit to focus on segments rather than individuals. Therefore, utilizing three major segments within the industry here in Grenada. The areas selected were LIAT (Travel), Grand View Inn (Accommodation) and Le chateau (Dining). Historical data was also collected from reputable sources, as a means of completing this paper. Definition of Financial Crisis and Recession: A financial crisis: A situation in which the supply of money is outpaced by the demand for money. This means that liquidity is quickly evaporated because available money is withdrawn from banks (called a run), forcing banks either to sell other investments to make up for the shortfall or to collapse. See also recession (Business dictionary, 2010). A recession: Period of general economic decline, defined usually as a contraction in the GDP for six months (two consecutive quarters) or longer. Marked by high unemployment, stagnant wages, and fall in retail sales, a recession generally does not last longer than one year and is much milder than a depression. Although recessions are considered a normal part of a capitalist economy, there is no unanimity of economists on its causes (.Business dictionary, 2010) Question/Survey: Dear Participant, This survey/questionnaire is intended to be of utmost confidentiality. This is a survey carried out by Donika Christopher-James, a Tourism and hospitality major at the St. Georges University. The purpose of this survey is to determine some of the adverse effects the existing global recession has on the tourism industry in Grenada. With the sole aim of finding some possible recommendations on completion of this study. Therefore, participants are asked not to submit their name or organization name as a means of keeping this information confidential. Thank you, _______________________ Donika Christopher-James Are you aware of the existing Global financial crisis? Yes No Has the Crisis affected youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. Directly Indirectly State in what way was your organization was affected? What percent of your business is owed to tourist? Below 30% 30-40% 40-50% Higher than 50% Do you have repeat guest yearly? Yes No What is the percent of return guests yearly? 10- 30% 30-50% Higher than 50% Has there been any change in the patronage of your organization by return guest within the last year? Yes No Indicate whether there was increase or decrease, by how much? Increase Decrease Less than 10% 10-20% 20-30% 30-40% Over 40% In your opinion do you think there is a solution to the crisis? Yes No Can you give some recommendation(s) to the persons affected within the tourism industry? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Data analysis: Are you aware of the existing global financial crisis? Figure 1.1: The Graph indicates that 75% of the respondents were aware of the financial crisis in the world, where as the remaining 25% was very much unaware. Figure 1.2: This chart indicates how many persons were affected by the financial crisis directly leading to financial decisions being made or indirectly the trickle down effect; 100% were affected directly and there were none indirectly affected. State ways in which you as a business was affected. Figure 1.3: Is an indication as to how the four various sectors were affected by the crisis; 25% indicated they had to make position redundant, another 25% indicated that they suffered higher utility cost e.g fuel, 25% also said that their employees were forced to accept lower wages and the final 25 % stated that they were unable to market efficiently and effectively. What percent of your business is owed to tourist? Figure 1.4: Is an analysis as to how much the various business depend on the tourist for their existence, 25% indicates that 40-50% of their business comes from tourist and 75% of the patrons said that over 50% of their business revenues comes from tourists. Do you have repeat guest yearly? Figure 1.5: This chart indicates that 100% of the participants have repeat guest on a yearly basis. What is the percent of repeat guest yearly? Figure 1.6: This chart illustrates the percentage of repeat guest to the varying sectors yearly; 25% of the participants indicated that over 50% of their guest are repeaters, another 25% indicated that the return guest account for 30-50% of contributions and the remaining 50% said that return guest contributes to 10-30% of business yearly. Has there been any change in the patronage of your organization by return guest within the last year? Yes No 100% 0% Figure 1.7 Was there an increase or decrease in the patronage of tourist and by how much? Participant 1 Participant 2 Participant 3 Participant 4 Increase Decrease 10-20% Over 40% 30-40% 10-20% Figure 1.8 Figure 1.9: This graph is and analysis as to whether the participants believe there is a possible solution to the financial crisis. Where 75% look at it objectively and said yes they believe there is a solution for it and the next 25%indicated no there is no possible solution to the problem. Grenadas employment situation: According to information from the Minister of Finance Grenada (Peter David), unemployment rate at the end of 2009 was predicted to reach 30%. In basic mathematics, this could mean at least 23,000 persons out of work, in a population of roughly 100,000 persons. This is a vast difference in comparison to the (CIAs) Central Intelligence Agencys prediction in 2000 of 12% of potential unemployed persons (CIA, 2010). Present Economic situation of Grenada: The economy of Grenada has rebounded immensely following the devastation and impact of Hurricanes Ivan and Emily in 2004 and 2005, with the recovery centered mainly on reconstruction and the 2007 Cricket World Cup preparations. The economic outlook was most favorable, since several major tourism investment projects were underway. At that point inflation has been subdued. The countrys fiscal performance, however, has been much weaker than programmed in 2006 to 2007, owing it to capital expenditure overruns. Public debt reached 125 percent of GDP at the end of 2006, leaving little room for maneuver in the event of exogenous shocks (CKMC, 2010). According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), on the 25th of November 2009  Grenadas application for a disbursement of US$6.2m under its three-year International Monetary Fund (IMF) poverty reduction and growth facility Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) was approved, boosting total disbursements under the programme to US$23.5m. The IMF noted the severity of the impact of the global recession on Grenadas economy, appointed to a marked decline in the countrys output. Owing to fall in tourism receipts, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and remittance, a rise in the unemployment situation, and large revenue shortfalls in 2009. With estimated public-sector debt totaling nearly 109% of GDP at end-2008 (and estimated to have risen slightly in 2009), the IMF also warned that Grenada remains at a high risk of debt distress. However, the IMF commended Grenada on its efforts to cope with the short-term impact of the external shocks and its commitment to implementing structural reforms, including the introduction of VAT in February 2010. The introduction of the VAT is one of several government initiatives to boost sagging revenue, which has been hit hard by the downturn in the tourism sector (stopover arrivals were down by 14.4% year on year in the first nine months of 2009, which has pulled down earnings). The government has also indicated that it will implement a fraud control plan at customs and boost enforcement to collect tax arrears in 2010. Capital spending is expected to be cut in 2010, by as much as 50% compared with 2009, as the government diverts its scarce resources to boost social spending. Based on preliminary estimates, which reveals that economic activity in Grenada contracted by 7.7 per cent in 2009 compared to real growth of 2.2 per cent in 2008.   This performance reflected declines in construction (52.4 percent), mining and quarrying (29.9 per cent), hotels and restaurants (20.8 per cent), wholesale and retail trade (17.9 percent), transport services (12.3 percent), manufacturing (11.8 per cent), government services (3.8 percent) and communications (2.0 percent).   This therefore indicated there were some bright spots. Agriculture increased by 9.3 percent, Other Services which is dominated by St. Georges University increased by 8.0 percent and Banking and Insurance increased by 8.6 percent. Between January to November 2009, stay-over tourist arrivals declined by 12.8% with a total of 84,240 arrivals in comparison to 96,588 arrivals for the corresponding period of 2008. All the major source markets experienced declines: United States by 1.5%; United Kingdom by 23.2% and the Caribbean by 12.6%. It is believed that the recession experienced in Grenadas major source markets combined with the high cost of air travel contributed to the decline in the number of stay-over visitors. For the period January to November 2009, Cruise Arrivals totaled 276,858 compared to 227,937 for the same period in 2008, an increase of 21.5%. Similarly, cruise calls also increased by 13.5% with a total of 202 calls compared to 178. That said, it is estimated that the average expenditure of these visitors fell reflecting the global economic situation (CKMC, 2010). According to Economist Lennox Andrews the Grenadian economy is projected to grow by 0.8 percent compared with a projected contraction of 2.3 percent for the ECCU.   I should note that Governments projection is higher than the IMF and ECCB projections are a decline of 2.0% and 1.8% respectively but is based on our most recent information on the projects (public and private) which will commence this year. SWOT analysis of the Tourism Industry in Grenada: Strengths: Enrichment of culture- Learning about various cultures is an integral part of any individuals development. It gives one a chance to understand various ways of problem solving; different practices, beliefs, religions, norms and values. In turn this will assist in counteracting the issue of discrimination. Increase in Foreign direct investments- As a result of the evolution of tourism, the Grenadian economy has seen the likes of many new developments in terms of foreign investments. For example; The Port Louis development, Grand harbor development at Egmont point, Bacolet bay Resort development, Prickley bay marina development and the Livera national development. Increase in foreign exchange for the country- This is the main area where the mass foreign exchange for the country is derived. This occurs when tourist engage in tours, dining, outdoor adventures, accommodation and communication via telephone or e-mail. Opportunities for employment- The unemployment situation in Grenada has been a known factor for the country for a number of years, tourism offers opportunities for employment both direct, for example; within the hotels or restaurants or indirect like the vendors and tour guides. Sustain and preserve our environment- The Grenadian officials have seen the need to preserve their natural habitats, numerous historical sites and beaches. Some of the measures they have put in place to do so is regulations and laws like; fees paid to see the forts, no one can visit the mangroves during a certain period and stopping of the locals from mining sand from the beaches. Weaknesses: The industry is very labor intensive- Tourism within Grenada and around the world is seen as a service oriented industry. Therefore it relys on the personal touch of human to bring about the much needed satisfaction to the guest. This may be detrimental, in the event that there is situation like industrial actions or mass outbreaks of illness, the business will be on a stand still. Encourages huge sums in expenditures- Within the island of Grenada over the years it is quite noticeable that there has been a lot of infrastructural development. For example roads, cruise ship terminals and marinas. These development calls for huge sums of expenditure on the part of the Government. Increased in criminal activities- The tourism sector over the years has lured many new investors into the country, though it is seen as an asset it is also negative, since there is the opportunity for white collar crime such as money laundering and theft. Opportunities: The country can create a well known brand- Grenada the isle of spice may seem to be a strong brand, but not everyone is willing to travel thousands of miles for only spice. There is the opportunity to develop the countrys brand. Diversify into various markets- Diversity is imperative as is in any business, this is to gain as much clients and market share as one possibly can. Threats: The present Global recession- Grenada like many other destinations is faced with the wrath of the economic crunch. It has affected the tourism sectors immensely, since most business has seen a decline in clientele as compared to the past. Most persons spending power has reduced critically. Natural and manmade disasters- Natural disasters is a critical issue for Grenada though, history has shown they are far and few. The country is located within the tropics and concerns of hurricanes and storms are growing, for example hurricanes Ivan and Emily in 2004 and 2005. Manmade disasters are likely to occur if care and caution is not taken, for example; fires which is a very destructive feature. Increased competition- Possible completion is always a concern for any industry and business. Within the tourism industry competition will occur with new and emerging destination markets. Areas within the tourism industry that was affected by the financial crisis: The Global recession has affected the tourism industry in Grenada holistically; because there have been persons who are faced directly with this crisis, for example in North America, their spending power has been reduced considerably. The tourism industry like most other countries is made up of numerous sectors. Furthermore the sectors which have felt the wrath of the economic down turn in Grenada are: Travel: (airlines, taxi drivers, tour operators, cruise ship operators and travel agents) Accommodation and dining: (restaurants, hotels, guest houses and travel agents) Shopping: (supermarkets, retail shops, stores and vendors) Entertainment: (Local bands-(steel bands, vocalist), night clubs) Over the past 2 years these sectors has seen a considerable decline in their patronage especially those from tourist, which they were and most cases are still heavily dependent. The key players involved Tourist movement: The tourism industry based on its service oriented nature has numerous key players; these key players are persons involved in the hospitality sector of tourism, the regulatory bodies and the tourist themselves. Within the hospitality sector there are persons or organizations that provide service to tourist. In providing those services they generally ensure that it is sustainable and economically viable to the industry and environment. These sectors are the hotels; who provide accommodation to tourist visiting the island of Grenada, the restaurants; most of these restaurants are located especially within the south of the island are heavily dependent on tourist to sustain them , cruise lines; which is one form of transportation taking persons from varying destinations to Grenada, a large percent of stop-over tourist is accounted for as cruise passengers and airlines; the airline traveling to and from Grenada account for 70% of tourist visiting the country. The second group of persons within the tourism sector of Grenada are the regulatory bodies, which involves; the minister and ministry of tourism who is responsible for a portion of public relations in tourism, as well as implementing rules and policies to help sustain and protect the environment and visitors alike. Another sector within the regulatory body is the tourism board of Grenada who engages in ample marketing for the destination and assists in promoting some of the historical sites. The final major supporters of the tourism industry in Grenada are the tourist themselves, without the much needed tourist travelling from their usual place of resident and work, tourism will not be an industry that Grenada can depend on. Types of effects: The Global recession has affected countries worldwide and more so the tourism sector around the world immensely. Within the Grenadian community the global economic downturn has affected the tourism industry in numerous ways; There is a decline in the visitors to the country. Implementation of new taxes. Loss of skilled laborers within the industry, because of numerous job terminations. Decrease in marketing initiatives and ability by the regulatory bodies. Pull out of airline/transportation service to the island. Higher air fares. Decrease in (FDIs) foreign direct investments. There were businesses facing permanent closure, e.g craft shops, supermarkets. Increase in crime. Measures taken to resolve the situation: Like many of the larger developed and developing countries Grenada has tried numerous strategies to resolve the situation, or to some extent cushion the burden of this crisis. Without success they continue to feel the wrath of this economic downturn. Some of the measures taken by the officials of Grenada to withstand the crisis are; the sort financial assistance to pay out the outstanding debts from the World Bank. The World Bank being an institution that is presently faced with the said situation is unable to assist. Another strategy was to implement the value added tax (VAT), which is only a month old and simply too premature to see any benefits derived. The third and most common strategy was to forcibly reduce wages, rotate and terminate employees positions. The tourism and hospitality sector has felt the blow hardest from this crisis, simply because of its uncertainty and vulnerability in response to change in the economy. Conclusion: While tourism retains the title of the largest and fastest growing industry worldwide, its dynamism is owed to the many efforts to satisfy consumer demands. Similarly within the Grenadian economy tourism today is deemed the number one industry and main source of revenue for the country for over a decade. However, the tourism sector was impacted by many external factors, but most predominantly over the past (2  ½) years by the existing Global financial crisis. The effects of this crisis were as follows and by no means exhausted; Loss of Jobs, decrease in visitors arrivals, decrease in foreign direct investments, loss of skilled workers, higher air fares, decrease in marketing initiatives, pull out of major airlines and crime. Though persons in authority have engaged in numerous measures to counteract the problem of the financial crisis on the tourism sector in Grenada, they were unsuccessful. Based on my analysis of the effects the financial crisis having on Grenadas tourism carried out in this research, it is seemingly unethical and to an extent difficult to try to solve this situation. Because of the nature of a global recession, it is more ethical to let the system take its course. Thus try to implement means to cushion the economy when it is complete at the same time use this era to better prepare for a similar situation. Recommendations: This paper will be deemed incomplete without finding meaningful and yet realistic solutions to the existing problem facing the tourism and hospitality industry in Grenada The Global Recession. In efforts to help resolve this resounding problem the author has come up with a number of recommendations which are as follows: The officials and the key players as mentioned within the paper must develop more programs to encourage spending by the tourist, thus moving away from the usual ordinary activities. Since a recession is usually caused by failure to inject monies back into the economy so it can have the spin off effect, they must implement activities such as; an all you can eat fruit fest for the health conscious tourist or drum by moonlight where they get to hear a bit of our heritage and become a part of it. Implement a contingency fund for the industry, the industry is seen as fickle, but like any other industry it has its peak points and its down falls. Monies must be placed a side or invested to reap profits, in that situations like the financial crisis occurs, the industry will more or less be cushioned and can sustain itself for a longer period. Seek ways to reduce the many taxes being enforced, though taxation is the number one means of most governments revenue. The implementation of taxes will only sort to worsen the recession situation, since a recession is basically failure of the people to inject monies back into the economy. Taxes will only allow them to continually avoid spending. They should try to optimize or maximize the use of the recurrent revenues. Every country, no matter the size has recurrent revenues, which is revenue that is predictable, stable and can be counted on in the future with a high degree of certainty. Try to utilize these revenues for many needed purposes instead of focusing on one given area. Seek to become self sufficient in areas such as agriculture, this is as a means of reducing imports, though the globalization process is inevitable. Create an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive. It is always good for a country to welcome foreign direct investments, but the survival of local businesses is important. Implementing laws and regulations that will not facilitate local business will only put additional burdens on the economy in terms of unemployment. Implement programs to train persons to be versatile in terms of finding alternative employment. This is important in that statistics indicates how many persons are today unemployed within the tourism sector, because of the economic downturn.

Moral of Washington Irvings The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Essay

Moral of Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow In Washington Irving’s short story â€Å"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,† the conflict between Enlightenment and Romantic ideals is narrativized. Irving’s story is an exploration of the conflict between these two schools of thought. Irving uses his setting, his characters, and his â€Å"moral† (or lack thereof) to critique the Enlightenment. At first reading, â€Å"Sleepy Hollow† may seem no more than a dreamy folk tale. But when read in the context of the emerging resistance to Enlightenment thinking, it reveals itself to be a striking denunciation of the ideals of the Enlightenment. The Age of Enlightenment was characterized by the reign of reason. Enlightenment thinkers believed in the supremacy of reason above all other human faculties, and in the perfectibility of man and therefore society. Scientific understanding and the pursuit of knowledge were key pursuits in this time. Materialism was emphasized as an overt rejection of the superstition of the Middle Ages. The ideals of the Enlightenment were rationality, objectivism, and the â€Å"enlightened† society based on pragmatism. In â€Å"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,† Irving uses all of the tools at his disposal as a storyteller to illustrate his criticism of Enlightenment ideals. First of all, he creates an atmosphere and a setting where reason is at a loss. Also, he uses the character of Ichabod Crane to embody Enlightenment principles, and then has this character become a figure of ridicule. Additionally, Irving uses his conclusion to poke fun at the Enlightenment idea of literature as being necessarily didactic. All of these elements come together to provide a thorough indictment of the Enlightenment. ... ...e. He then has the storyteller himself question the veracity of the story with his final line, â€Å"’I don’t believe one-half of it myself,’† which scorns not just the importance of a moral, but again questions the importance of truth and verifiability. While Irving may poke fun at the idea of a simplistic moral, a clear maxim that one can easily digest, he nevertheless infuses his work with a message. If any â€Å"moral† could be taken from â€Å"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,† it is that there are some places where reason cannot guide us. The possibility of a place where reason and rationality are no longer useful is a direct and sharp critique of the ideals of the Enlightenment. Through his â€Å"tools of the trade† as a storyteller, Irving effectively denounces the limits of Enlightenment thinking, and opens the door for the possibilities of Romanticism and the Gothic.

Moral Judgment Essay -- essays research papers fc

‘Moral judgments are nothing more than expressions of personal preference. While there is some point to arguing about questions of fact, moral arguments are a waste of time. The only thing at issue is what people like or don’t like’. I have probably read this statement about a million times and still do not have any qualms against it. Moral judgments are typically based on your upbringing, your likes, your religion (or non-religion), and numerous other aspects that make up your personality. Those listed traits and further attributions give you the basis of what you are going to feel morally to many issues such as: homosexuality, abortion, murder, stealing, etc. While many of us feel that we are always precise when making a judgment, this paper will show that no matter how hard we try; the above statement will always be true. In Rachels’ The Elements of Moral Philosophy; it states, â€Å"Ethical Subjectivism is the idea that our moral opinions are based on our feelings, and nothing more†. Ethical Subjectivism is what the topic statement is defining. When you make a moral judgment, such as the following: I disagree with homosexuality; what is your basis for the judgment? Society, your parents, your religion – these are all things that round out your personal preferences. By making such a statement, you are in fact just stating your own opinion (which is an extension of your preferences). In the dictionary, opinion is defined as: a belief or conclusion held with confidence but ...

Developing an international marketing plan Essay

Working in teams of 4 – 5 students you will analyze a country’s cultural and economic environment in order to develop a marketing program for a specific product or service. The purpose of this assignment is to facilitate cross-cultural understanding and evaluate a country’s market potential. You should work as if you represent a company planning to expand operations to several new countries. Your job is to analyze and tentatively propose a marketing program for the company’s product in one of the countries. The project includes a paper (15 pages plus as many appendixes, tables, etc. as needed) and a presentation (each group will have 15 minutes to present their work to the class). Please see The Country Notebook (p. 586) in International Marketing by Cateora and Graham. Project Components 1) Identify country 2) Identify product and develop product fact sheet 3) Economic analysis 4) Cultural analysis 5) Market audit and competitive analysis 6) Marketing plan 1) Selecting a Country Please choose a country that you have some interest in and would like to develop in-depth knowledge. There are only three restrictions in the selection of a country: 1) you must study a country other than your own, 2) two groups cannot select the same country, and 3) you cannot study the United States. You can select countries ranging from the most economically developed to most recent developing nations. You must have a country selected by week 3. 2) Selecting a Product The focus of this project is exclusively consumer products. You may choose any consumer product. You must also produce a 1 page product fact sheet identifying the product and product features (e.g., brand name, description, usage, purpose, benefits, unit size, cost, contents or other relevant features). The product fact sheet is due in week 4. Also include your product fact sheet as an appendix in your final project. 3) Economic Analysis Entire books have been written on the topics in this section, however I want you to demonstrate an understanding of the economic information and highlight points of particular significance from a marketing planning perspective. Potential categories of information include population, economic statistics and activity, developments in science and technology, distribution systems, and media. Adapt and modify these categories as necessary. In addition, provide a 1-page summary of the major economic points. The 1-page summary is due in week 6. Also place the summary in the appendix of your final project. 4) Cultural Analysis You will need to report cultural facts that you have identified and analyze these facts in terms of likely marketing implications. Relevant cultural information includes geographical setting, social institutions (family, education, political, legal, etc.), religion, living conditions, and language. In addition to reporting facts, it is important to interpret this information. You must answer the question â€Å"What does this cultural information have to do with marketing?† You will also have to complete a 2-page essay on â€Å"what it is like to be a citizen of† the country that you choose to study. The â€Å"what it is like†¦Ã¢â‚¬  essay is due in week 6. Also include your essay as an appendix in your final project. 5) Market audit and competitive analysis This section is used to determine competitive market conditions and market potential. This information is then used to determine the extent of adaptation of the company’s marketing mix. Consider the product and the market (e.g., consider the conditions where the product will be sold, competitors, government involvement, market size, etc.). 6) Marketing plan The information that you have developed should serve as a basis for your marketing plan. You need to identify the most effective means of marketing your product or service in the country identified. Categories include objectives, product, promotion, distribution, and price. Please indicate if you think that this is a profitable market opportunity for your product or service. Be sure to include your recommendations. You have the option of recommending to market or not to market the product in the country. Make sure your decision is supported with adequate information. FORMAT ISSUES †¢ Be concise. The final product should be no more than 15 pages in length (not including appendices and references). The paper should be easily read and understood. o It should be written in concise business-style English o Use bullet-point statements with short explanatory paragraphs when appropriate. o Include charts and figures to describe numerical data. o Include pictures if appropriate. †¢ Form matters. The look of this document is important. It should look as if it has been professionally prepared. Use double-spacing with 12-point font. All tables, figures and appendices should be individually labeled and titled (e.g., Table 1: Descriptive Statistics of †¦; Appendix A: Graphical Representation of †¦). †¢ Writing matters. I expect you to write clearly, using language that conveys what you mean. All members of the group should carefully inspect the document for grammatical and spelling errors. o You do not get credit for correct grammar, punctuation and spelling. However, you WILL MOST CERTAINLY lose points if there are problems in this area. OTHER STUFF †¢ Each group should submit three exam questions (and answers) to the instructor prior to the presentation. One of these questions may be placed on the exam. †¢ History suggests that not every member of a group will actively participate in the project. In order to overcome this tendency, I will ask each group member to complete a peer evaluation for this project. This evaluation is intended to force you to confront (as a group) at the start what expectations each of you has for the others in your group relative to this project. †¢ Each group is required to meet with the instructor during the term to make sure that the group is on the right track with the project. Be prepared to discuss what you will be doing, how you will be doing it, and how you will present this information in class. †¢ Rather than splitting the project up among group members and then putting it together at the end, I strongly urge you to approach it as a total entity. This will help with the flow of the writing and understanding of how each element relates to the others. o Your grade will be reduced if it appears that you slapped together four different parts written by four different people. †¢ Cite all of your sources. PRESENTATION GUIDELINES †¢ Each group is required to make a presentation to the class. †¢ Each group member must present, but the amount of time does not have to be shared equally across all members. †¢ Practice, practice, practice! It is the only way to make sure that the timing is right and the only way to ensure that the transitions between speakers are smooth. †¢ It is important to engage the audience. Make the presentation fun and interesting. Ask questions, show enthusiasm, and include visual aids and props when appropriate. †¢ Make an effort to face the class when you’re speaking. People often have a tendency to talk to the screen. Also, do not stand in front of the screen. Remember, you want your audience to see it. †¢ Speak clearly and deliberately. Students often rush through the presentation. Remember, even though you are really familiar with the content, others are not. †¢ Presentation slides should include enough information to communicate the key points to the class. †¢ Attendance is mandatory for ALL students, whether presenting or not. It is the responsibility of the audience to listen attentively and to engage the speakers where appropriate.

The Lost Symbol Chapter 98-101

CHAPTER 98 Robert Langdon regained consciousness with a crippling headache. Where am I? Wherever he was, it was dark. Deep-cave dark, and deathly silent. He was lying on his back with his arms at his side. Confused, he tried moving his fingers and toes, relieved to find they moved freely with no pain. What happened? With the exception of his headache and the profound darkness, everything seemed more or less normal. Almost everything. Langdon realized he was lying on a hard floor that felt unusually smooth, like a sheet of glass. Stranger still, he could feel that the slick surface was in direct contact with his bare flesh . . . shoulders, back, buttocks, thighs, calves. Am I naked? Puzzled, he ran his hands over his body. Jesus! Where the hell are my clothes? In the darkness, the cobwebs began to lift, and Langdon saw flashes of memory . . . frightening snapshots . . . a dead CIA agent . . . the face of a tattooed beast . . . Langdon's head smashing into the floor. The images came faster . . . and now he recalled the sickening image of Katherine Solomon bound and gagged on the dining-room floor. My God! Langdon sat bolt upright, and as he did, his forehead smashed into something suspended only inches above him. Pain exploded through his skull and he fell back, teetering near unconsciousness. Groggy, he reached up with his hands, groping in the darkness to find the obstacle. What he found made no sense to him. It seemed this room's ceiling was less than a foot above him. What in the world? As he spread his arms to his sides in an attempt to roll over, both of his hands hit sidewalls. The truth now dawned on him. Robert Langdon was not in a room at all. I'm in a box! In the darkness of his small, coffinlike container, Langdon began pounding wildly with his fist. He shouted over and over for help. The terror that gripped him deepened with each passing instant until it was intolerable. I have been buried alive. The lid of Langdon's strange coffin refused to budge, even with the full force of his arms and legs pushing upward in wild panic. The box, from all he could tell, was made of heavy fiberglass. Airtight. Soundproof. Lightproof. Escape-proof. I am going to suffocate alone in this box. He thought of the deep well into which he had fallen as a young boy, and of the terrifying night he spent treading water alone in the darkness of a bottomless pit. That trauma had scarred Langdon's psyche, burdening him with an overwhelming phobia of enclosed spaces. Tonight, buried alive, Robert Langdon was living his ultimate nightmare. Katherine Solomon trembled in silence on the floor of Mal'akh's dining room. The sharp wire around her wrists and ankles had already cut into her, and the slightest movements seemed only to tighten her bonds. The tattooed man had brutally knocked Langdon unconscious and dragged his limp body across the floor along with his leather bag and the stone pyramid. Where they had gone, Katherine had no idea. The agent who had accompanied them was dead. She had not heard a sound in many minutes, and she wondered if the tattooed man and Langdon were still inside the house. She had been trying to scream for help, but with each attempt, the rag in her mouth crept back dangerously closer to her windpipe. Now she felt approaching footsteps on the floor, and she turned her head, hoping against hope that someone was coming to help. The massive silhouette of her captor materialized in the hallway. Katherine recoiled as she flashed on the image of him standing in her family home ten years earlier. He killed my family. Now he strode toward her. Langdon was nowhere to be seen. The man crouched down and gripped her around the waist, hoisting her roughly onto his shoulder. The wire sliced into her wrists, and the rag muffled her muted cries of pain. He carried her down the hallway toward the living room, where, earlier today, the two of them had calmly sipped tea together. Where is he taking me?! He carried Katherine across the living room and stopped directly in front of the large oil painting of the Three Graces that she had admired this afternoon. â€Å"You mentioned you liked this painting,† the man whispered, his lips practically touching her ear. â€Å"I'm glad. It may be the last thing of beauty you see.† With that, he reached out and pressed his palm into the right side of the enormous frame. To Katherine's shock, the painting rotated into the wall, turning on a central pivot like a revolving door. A hidden doorway. Katherine tried to wriggle free, but the man held her firmly, carrying her through the opening behind the canvas. As the Three Graces pivoted shut behind them, she could see heavy insulation on the back of the canvas. Whatever sounds were made back here were apparently not meant to be heard by the outside world. The space behind the painting was cramped, more like a hallway than a room. The man carried her to the far side and opened a heavy door, carrying her through it onto a small landing. Katherine found herself looking down a narrow ramp into a deep basement. She drew a breath to scream, but the rag was choking her. The incline was steep and narrow. The walls on either side were made of cement, awash in a bluish light that seemed to emanate from below. The air that wafted up was warm and pungent, laden with an eerie blend of smells . . . the sharp bite of chemicals, the smooth calm of incense, the earthy musk of human sweat, and, pervading it all, a distinct aura of visceral, animal fear. â€Å"Your science impressed me,† the man whispered as they reached the bottom of the ramp. â€Å"I hope mine impresses you.† CHAPTER 99 CIA field agent Turner Simkins crouched in the darkness of Franklin Park and kept his steady gaze on Warren Bellamy. Nobody had taken the bait yet, but it was still early. Simkins's transceiver beeped, and he activated it, hoping one of his men had spotted something. But it was Sato. She had new information. Simkins listened and agreed with her concern. â€Å"Hold on,† he said. â€Å"I'll see if I can get a visual.† He crawled through the bushes in which he was hiding and peered back in the direction from which he had entered the square. After some maneuvering, he finally opened a sight line. Holy shit. He was staring at a building that looked like an Old World mosque. Nestled between two much larger buildings, the Moorish facade was made of gleaming terra-cotta tile laid in intricate multicolored designs. Above the three massive doors, two tiers of lancet windows looked as if Arabian archers might appear and open fire if anyone approached uninvited. â€Å"I see it,† Simkins said. â€Å"Any activity?† â€Å"Nothing.† â€Å"Good. I need you to reposition and watch it very carefully. It's called the Almas Shrine Temple, and it's the headquarters of a mystical order.† Simkins had worked in the D.C. area for a long time but was not familiar with this temple or any ancient mystical order headquartered on Franklin Square. â€Å"This building,† Sato said, â€Å"belongs to a group called the Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.† â€Å"Never heard of them.† â€Å"I think you have,† Sato said. â€Å"They're an appendant body of the Masons, more commonly known as the Shriners.† Simkins shot a dubious glance at the ornate building. The Shriners? The guys who build hospitals for kids? He could imagine no â€Å"order† less ominous sounding than a fraternity of philanthropists who wore little red fezzes and marched in parades. Even so, Sato's concerns were valid. â€Å"Ma'am, if our target realizes that this building is in fact `The Order' on Franklin Square, he won't need the address. He'll simply bypass the rendezvous and go directly to the correct location.† â€Å"My thoughts exactly. Keep an eye on the entrance.† â€Å"Yes, ma'am.† â€Å"Any word from Agent Hartmann in Kalorama Heights?† â€Å"No, ma'am. You asked him to phone you directly.† â€Å"Well, he hasn't.† Odd, Simkins thought, checking his watch. He's overdue. CHAPTER 100 Robert Langdon lay shivering, naked and alone in total blackness. Paralyzed by fear, he was no longer pounding or shouting. Instead, he had closed his eyes and was doing his best to control his hammering heart and his panicked breathing. You are lying beneath a vast, nighttime sky, he tried to convince himself. There is nothing above you but miles of wide-open space. This calming visualization had been the only way he had managed to survive a recent stint in an enclosed MRI machine . . . that and a triple dose of Valium. Tonight, however, the visualization was having no effect whatsoever. The rag in Katherine Solomon's mouth had shifted backward and was all but choking her. Her captor had carried her down a narrow ramp and into a dark basement corridor. At the far end of the hall, she had glimpsed a room lit with an eerie reddish-purple light, but they'd never made it that far. The man had stopped instead at a small side room, carried her inside, and placed her on a wooden chair. He had set her down with her bound wrists behind the chair back so she could not move. Now Katherine could feel the wire on her wrists slicing deeper into her flesh. The pain barely registered next to the rising panic she was feeling over being unable to breathe. The cloth in her mouth was slipping deeper into her throat, and she felt herself gagging reflexively. Her vision started to tunnel. Behind her, the tattooed man closed the room's lone door and flipped on the light. Katherine's eyes were watering profusely now, and she could no longer differentiate objects in her immediate surroundings. Everything had become a blur. A distorted vision of colorful flesh appeared before her, and Katherine felt her eyes starting to flutter as she teetered on the brink of unconsciousness. A scale-covered arm reached out and yanked the rag from her mouth. Katherine gasped, inhaling deep breaths, coughing and choking as her lungs flooded with precious air. Slowly, her vision began to clear, and she found herself looking into the demon's face. The visage was barely human. Blanketing his neck, face, and shaved head was an astounding pattern of bizarre tattooed symbols. With the exception of a small circle on top of his head, every inch of his body appeared to be decorated. A massive double-headed phoenix on his chest glared at her through nipple eyes like some kind of ravenous vulture, patiently waiting for her death. â€Å"Open your mouth,† the man whispered. Katherine stared at the monster with total revulsion. What? â€Å"Open your mouth,† the man repeated. â€Å"Or the cloth goes back in.† Trembling, Katherine opened her mouth. The man extended his thick, tattooed index finger, inserting it between her lips. When he touched her tongue, Katherine thought she would vomit. He extracted his wet finger and raised it to the top of his shaved head. Closing his eyes, he massaged her saliva into his small circular patch of untattooed flesh. Repulsed, Katherine looked away. The room in which she was sitting appeared to be a boiler room of some sort–pipes on the walls, gurgling sounds, fluorescent lights. Before she could take in her surroundings, though, her gaze stopped dead on something beside her on the floor. A pile of clothing–turtleneck, tweed sport coat, loafers, Mickey Mouse watch. â€Å"My God!† She wheeled back to the tattooed animal before her. â€Å"What have you done with Robert?!† â€Å"Shh,† the man whispered. â€Å"Or he'll hear you.† He stepped to one side and motioned behind him. Langdon was not there. All Katherine saw was a huge black fiberglass box. Its shape bore an unsettling resemblance to the heavy crates in which corpses were shipped back from war. Two massive clasps firmly locked the box shut. â€Å"He's inside?!† Katherine blurted. â€Å"But . . . he'll suffocate!† â€Å"No, he won't,† the man said, pointing to a series of transparent pipes that ran along the wall into the bottom of the crate. â€Å"He'll only wish he could.† In total darkness, Langdon listened intently to the muffled vibrations he now heard from the outside world. Voices? He began pounding on the box and shouting at the top of his lungs. â€Å"Help! Can anyone hear me?!† Far off, a muted voice called out. â€Å"Robert! My God, no! NO!† He knew the voice. It was Katherine, and she sounded terrified. Even so, it was a welcome sound. Langdon drew a breath to call out to her, but he stopped short, feeling an unexpected sensation at the back of his neck. A faint breeze seemed to be emanating from the bottom of the box. How is that possible? He lay very still, taking stock. Yes, definitely. He could feel the tiny hairs on the back of his neck being tickled by air movement. Instinctively, Langdon began feeling along the floor of the box, searching for the source of the air. It took only a moment to locate. There's a tiny vent! The small perforated opening felt similar to a drain plate on a sink or tub, except that a soft, steady breeze was now coming up through it. He's pumping air in for me. He doesn't want me to suffocate. Langdon's relief was short-lived. A terrifying sound was now emanating up through the holes in the vent. It was the unmistakable gurgle of flowing liquid . . . coming his way. Katherine stared in disbelief at the clear shaft of liquid that was progressing down one of the pipes toward Langdon's crate. The scene looked like some kind of twisted stage magician's act. He's pumping water into the crate?! Katherine strained at her bonds, ignoring the deep bite of the wires around her wrists. All she could do was look on in panic. She could hear Langdon pounding in desperation, but as the water reached the underside of the container, the pounding stopped. There was a moment of terrified silence. Then the pounding started again with renewed desperation. â€Å"Let him out!† Katherine begged. â€Å"Please! You can't do this!† â€Å"Drowning is a terrible death, you know.† The man spoke calmly as he paced around her in circles. â€Å"Your assistant, Trish, could tell you that.† Katherine heard his words, but she could barely process them. â€Å"You may remember that I almost drowned once,† the man whispered. â€Å"It was on your family's estate in Potomac. Your brother shot me, and I fell through the ice, out at Zach's bridge.† Katherine glared at him, filled with loathing. The night you killed my mother. â€Å"The gods protected me that night,† he said. â€Å"And they showed me the way . . . to become one of them.† The water gurgling into the box behind Langdon's head felt warm . . . body temperature. The fluid was already several inches deep and had completely swallowed the back of his naked body. As it began creeping up his rib cage, Langdon felt a stark reality closing in fast. I'm going to die. With renewed panic, he raised his arms and began pounding wildly again. CHAPTER 101 â€Å"You've got to let him out!† Katherine begged, crying now. â€Å"We'll do whatever you want!† She could hear Langdon pounding more frantically as the water flowed into his container. The tattooed man just smiled. â€Å"You're easier than your brother. The things I had to do to get Peter to tell me his secrets . . .† â€Å"Where is he?!† she demanded. â€Å"Where is Peter?! Tell me! We did exactly what you wanted! We solved the pyramid and–â€Å" â€Å"No, you did not solve the pyramid. You played a game. You withheld information and brought a government agent to my home. Hardly behavior I intend to reward.† â€Å"We didn't have a choice,† she replied, choking back the tears. â€Å"The CIA is looking for you. They made us travel with an agent. I'll tell you everything. Just let Robert out!† Katherine could hear Langdon shouting and pounding in the crate, and she could see the water flowing through the pipe. She knew he didn't have a lot of time. In front of her, the tattooed man spoke calmly, stroking his chin. â€Å"I assume there are agents waiting for me at Franklin Square?† Katherine said nothing, and the man placed his massive palms on her shoulders, slowly pulling her forward. With her arms still wire-bound be hind the chair back, her shoulders strained, burning with pain, threatening to dislocate. â€Å"Yes!† Katherine said. â€Å"There are agents at Franklin Square!† He pulled harder. â€Å"What is the address on the capstone?† The pain in her wrists and shoulders grew unbearable, but Katherine said nothing. â€Å"You can tell me now, Katherine, or I'll break your arms and ask you again.† â€Å"Eight!† she gasped in pain. â€Å"The missing number is eight! The capstone says: `The secret hides within The Order–Eight Franklin Square!' I swear it. I don't know what else to tell you! It's Eight Franklin Square!† The man still did not release her shoulders. â€Å"That's all I know!† Katherine said. â€Å"That's the address! Let go of me! Let Robert out of that tank!† â€Å"I would . . .† the man said, â€Å"but there's one problem. I can't go to Eight Franklin Square without being caught. Tell me, what's at that address?† â€Å"I don't know!† â€Å"And the symbols on the base of the pyramid? On the underside? Do you know their meaning?† â€Å"What symbols on the base?† Katherine had no idea what he was talking about. â€Å"The bottom has no symbols. It's smooth, blank stone!† Apparently immune to the muffled cries for help emanating from the coffinlike crate, the tattooed man calmly padded over to Langdon's day-bag and retrieved the stone pyramid. Then he returned to Katherine and held it up before her eyes so she could see the base. When Katherine saw the engraved symbols, she gasped in bewilderment. But . . . that's impossible! The bottom of the pyramid was entirely covered with intricate carvings. There was nothing there before! I'm sure of it! She had no idea what these symbols could possibly mean. They seemed to span every mystical tradition, including many she could not even place. Total chaos. â€Å"I . . . have no idea what this means,† she said. â€Å"Nor do I,† her captor said. â€Å"Fortunately, we have a specialist at our disposal.† He glanced at the crate. â€Å"Let's ask him, shall we?† He carried the pyramid toward the crate. For a brief instant of hope, Katherine thought he was going to unclasp the lid. Instead, he sat calmly on top of the box, reached down, and slid a small panel to one side, revealing a Plexiglas window in the top of the tank. Light! Langdon covered his eyes, squinting into the ray of light that now streamed in from above. As his eyes adjusted, hope turned to confusion. He was looking up through what appeared to be a window in the top of his crate. Through the window, he saw a white ceiling and a fluorescent light. Without warning, the tattooed face appeared above him, peering down. â€Å"Where is Katherine?!† Langdon shouted. â€Å"Let me out!† The man smiled. â€Å"Your friend Katherine is here with me,† the man said. â€Å"I have the power to spare her life. Your life as well. But your time is short, so I suggest you listen carefully.† Langdon could barely hear him through the glass, and the water had risen higher, creeping across his chest. â€Å"Are you aware,† the man asked, â€Å"that there are symbols on the base of the pyramid?† â€Å"Yes!† Langdon shouted, having seen the extensive array of symbols when the pyramid had lain on the floor upstairs. â€Å"But I have no idea what they mean! You need to go to Eight Franklin Square! The answer is there! That's what the capstone–â€Å" â€Å"Professor, you and I both know the CIA is waiting for me there. I have no intention of walking into a trap. Besides, I didn't need the street number. There is only one building on that square that could possibly be relevant–the Almas Shrine Temple.† He paused, staring down at Langdon. â€Å"The Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.† Langdon was confused. He was familiar with the Almas Temple, but he had forgotten it was on Franklin Square. The Shriners are . . . â€Å"The Order†? Their temple sits atop a secret staircase? It made no historical sense whatsoever, but Langdon was in no position at the moment to debate history. â€Å"Yes!† he shouted. â€Å"That must be it! The secret hides within The Order!† â€Å"You're familiar with the building?† â€Å"Absolutely!† Langdon raised his throbbing head to keep his ears above the quickly rising liquid. â€Å"I can help you! Let me out!† â€Å"So you believe you can tell me what this temple has to do with the symbols on the base of the pyramid?† â€Å"Yes! Let me just look at the symbols!† â€Å"Very well, then. Let's see what you come up with.† Hurry! With the warm liquid rising around him, Langdon pushed up on the lid, willing the man to unclasp it. Please! Hurry! But the lid never opened. Instead, the base of the pyramid suddenly appeared, hovering above the Plexiglas window. Langdon stared up in panic. â€Å"I trust this view is close enough for you?†The man held the pyramid in his tattooed hands. â€Å"Think fast, Professor. I'm guessing you have less than sixty seconds.†