Category: Anna Quindlen

Quindlen, Anna.” Stuff is not salvation”. She argues that people waste their money on unnecessary things, stuff can temporally bring happiness and satisfaction. The author explains to her audience some interesting assertions about the consumer culture. Quindlen explains to the reader why stuff do not bring real happiness. I agree with some of the author’s points to an extent, people need to stop wasting their money on unnecessary crap. However, the weakness of the article is the absence of evidence.

In the article “stuff is not salvation”, Quindlen Anna talks about American materialism. The author explains her readers many assertions about the consumers. In the first points she discusses that in today’s society people follow trends; they waste their money such as clothes, toys, and appliances instead of things that matter. Then Quindlen argues the problem why Americans do not care their money. Also, People use credit card daily to buy unnecessary stuffs and they get into debt. Finally, Quindlen analyzes the difference between current and past consumers. She describes that people can live happier without unnecessary things. The author’s intention is to try the involve readers with examples that happened in her childhood, family and friends to convince the audience that the subject is seen from her point view of a society full of prejudices and always wanting to have everything even though they do not need it.

People spend a lot of money on junk. I agree with her point because people waste their money buying things that they want but they do not need. For instance, Emely spend her money buying the latest iPhone instead of saving money for college tuition. Many people lean going to the mall during holidays deals such as Black Friday and Christmas. Persons buy cheap products and clothes that they do not need in those sales. Also, people lose interest in the products that they buy especially when the product is no lengthier part of the latest tendency.

I disagree with some of her criticisms. The lack of evidence in her article makes the audience tend to believe the article is a less reliable source of information. Quindlen does not use many accomplishments which can support her article. The author focuses too much in her observations. She only presents her personal experiences and predictions about the consumerism. By her reasons if the happiest people that I knew were rich I might the supposition that the money bring happiness.

Quindlen makes her readers think about the stuffs that they want but they do not need. People can buy whatever they want, but they need to stop buying junk. They can to learn how to control themselves from over-purchasing.

We are living in a world where it is more important to own an iPhone 11, than to have a plate of food in our homes. Lars Eighner and Anna Quindlen have both written personal essays about consumerism and materialism. In Eigner’s personal essay “Dumpster Diving” he portrays how he can make a living by searching dumpsters, and how people don’t acknowledge things that are yet helpful and important. Likewise, Quindlen’s essay “Stuff is Not Salvation” touches on the contemporary issue in regards to the increasing number of individuals who invest crazy amount of money on stuff that they don’t need. The message that both writers give are similar, however they use different ways to develop their claim. Although some individuals are controlled buyers, most of the american society let consumerism and materialism get over their head, and they start buying stuff to fit into a classified society as well as to hide themselves from reality.

In Anna Quindlen essay “Stuff is Not Salvation” she discusses how Americans are wasting large amounts of money in stuff that have no meaning. In “Stuff is Not Salvation” by Anna Quindlen, Quindlen writes “A critical difference between then and now is credit” (426). Therefore the benefits and convenience of utilizing credit cards often make individuals purchase new products that they cannot afford. People regularly binge spend on consumer goods utilizing credit cards, which could even result in a massive debt. Quindlen also mentions “A person in the United States replaces a cell phone every 16 months, not because the cell phone is old, but because it is oldish” (427). This quote infers that Americans are not only buying stuff without having the money for it, but that they will also throw out products after a certain period of time. People often think that because a new phone was released there is a need to replace that phone with the new one, they start thinking that this new phone has a better camera and battery because that is the image that the companies portray; big companies like Apple and Samsung have created amazing advertisement for people to go crazy and buy their products no matter what the situation of that person might be. Overall, Quindlen encourages her readers/audience to ponder the things that they purchase.

In Lars Eighner personal essay “Dumpster Diving” he uses his personal experiences as a scavenger to prove his audience that what they might find as trash he might look at it as gold. According to Lars Eighner “Students throw food away around breaks because they do not know whether it has spoiled or will spoil before they return” (280). Eighner emphasizes this in his personal essay because the food that college students throw out thinking that it might be expired or that it will soon, is what fills up his stomach most of the time. He often finds food in good condition for his dog and for him to eat, and that shows us how our society throws out a bunch of food that are still in good quality just because they might see it damage. Another example found in Eigner’s piece is “In particular they tend to throw everything out when they move at the end of the semester, before and after breaks, and around midterms, when many of them despair of college” (280). This means that college students are not only throwing out food, but many other stuff like computers, paper, school supplies, among many other things. And most of the time students are throwing stuff out because there might be a new product that just came out, for example, a new computer so they had to throw the oldish one out to buy the new one and try to fit between the other classmates. Overall, it’s seen how one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, which is exactly how Eighner’s feel.

After the terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001, on the twin towers, it left the world in a state of fear and distrust. In these three speeches, titled “Quilt Of A country” where others should come together as one unit, “Making The Future Better, Together”,when it shows how the generations come together. and “The Gettysburg Address” in which Abraham Lincoln also explains how we have to unite. Anna Quidlen, Eboo Patel, and Abraham Lincoln all summarize how people with their differences can settle and become one human race. Although some people may believe that we cannot live as one human race, Quindlen, Patel, and Lincoln, believe we can live as one human race because we all solve out differences for similar things.

In “A Quilt of a Country,” Anna Quindlen argues that people of diverse backgrounds can live as one human race. According to the author,”̈these are the representatives of a mongrel nation that somehow, at times like this, has one spirit. When it actually works it’s a wonder” ̈(Quindlen 5). This means that Anna Quidlen says that, even though Americans are diverse, they have the will and ethics to do things that at most are possible for their groups. This shows importance because it lets us know that even though people are different we can work together, and we could have a single identity as a nation, representing a person with many ideas. The text directly states that”̈What is the point of this splintered whole?” Also as America has no point in it.(Quindlen 3) This quote is explaining that the different groups that have fisticuffs over one another and means that they divide themselves among others. This quote is important because it explains how America still exist even though groups feud, and when connecting this towards me I can agree that at times I can have a connection with an enemy. Therefore people of diverse backgrounds can live as one because, even though we fight and do not agree at times, in the end we can work together, to complete not as one, but as all.

In “Making the Future Better Together,” Eboo Patel believes we can live as one human race since he points out how America has always believed in diversity. According to the author, he quotes , George Washington when he explains, “The government of the United States gives no bigotry, no sanction, to persecution no assistance.̈In which George Washington is also quoted” It only requires the people whom are protected to demean themselves as good citizens. (Patel 4) This quote illustrates that the U.S does not give attention, to judgment to punishment , and also meaning that, it only needs its people, who it protects to show that they are good citizens. Therefore, this quote shows how it does not matter what ethnicity you are, as long as you obey, or be a good citizen, they will accept you. This can connect to diversity to since everyone if different diversities can come together. Later through Eboo’s quotes George Washington again and shows him saying, If they’re good workmen, they can be of Asian, Africa, or Europe, they may be of Mahometans , Jews or Christians, of any section or maybe Atheist.” Later on saying , “ What matters is that they could build.”(Patel 7) This quote clarifies that it does not matter what ethnicity they are it doesn’t matter on their region, as long as they can do what they or as long as they’re good at what they do, they will be accepted as a person, not a tool. Here, the author reinforces the idea of diversity because it shows that everyone can be equal. Everyone and anything can be of use and it doesn’t matter if their a different ethic, they will still be them and accepted. Therefore, Eboo Patel believes that in America there can be diversity because of how people can be accepted and seen as who they are and not what they are.

In “The Gettysburg Address,” Lincoln suggest that we can live as one human race. According to the author, “Our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” (Lincoln 27). In this quote the author says that when the founding fathers came to the land they dedicated it to the equality of the people. This quote is important because, Abraham Lincoln shows that even though we stand as different people we are all equal, this suggests that our differences can make us come together, as one human race. Additionally, Lincoln mentions, “It is rather for is to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us-that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave their last full measure of devotion” (Lincoln 28). Lincoln is showing that we are all here to work together, to devote the land together, and to honor these dead together. He is showing that we could be the nation to show loyalty to those who have given their last breath for us. This further reinforces the idea of being one human race, because Lincoln knows that we have to be one whole to work together, That the people can do things that a simple person or a separated couldn’t. When concluding we can see, ths what the author, Abraham Lincoln said that we can live as one human race, from being this nation.

To recall, the main idea was to show that this nation, and its people can live as a whole. For the people of this nation to work as one and come together. The three different authors had proposed that the nation can come together as one. The three authors share that same meaning and show that the people have to come together no matter what. How would our nation be if we had never worked together?

Travelling through the pages of Anna Quindlen’s thought-provoking essay, ‘Quilt of a Country,’ I find myself embarking on a reflective journey. Quindlen’s words weave together a tapestry of ideas that explore the complexities of America’s diverse cultural landscape. As I delve into her insights, I am compelled to ponder upon the themes of diversity, unity, and the power of acceptance. This reflective essay aims to delve deeper into these themes, inviting introspection and contemplation on our collective identity as a nation.

Quindlen’s essay, written in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, serves as a reminder of the remarkable diversity within the United States. She portrays America as a metaphorical quilt, comprised of various patterns, colors, and textures. Each piece of fabric represents a different ethnic, religious, or cultural group, contributing to the rich tapestry of American society. Quindlen’s imagery prompts me to reflect on the immense beauty and strength that arises from embracing diversity.

One of the key ideas that resonates with me is the notion of unity amidst diversity. Quindlen acknowledges that, at times, the differences among Americans can be challenging and divisive. However, she emphasizes that the very diversity that separates us is also what unites us. The essay reminds me of the importance of finding common ground, of recognizing our shared humanity, and of appreciating the unique perspectives that each person brings to the table.

As I reflect on Quindlen’s words, I cannot help but consider my own experiences and encounters with diversity. I recall instances when I have been exposed to different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. These encounters have broadened my understanding of the world and have enriched my own identity. I recognize the transformative power that comes from engaging with individuals who have different perspectives and backgrounds. It is through these interactions that we grow, learn, and evolve as individuals and as a society.

Quindlen’s essay also reminds me of the importance of acceptance. She asserts that America’s diversity should be celebrated rather than feared. In a world that sometimes fosters divisiveness and intolerance, her words serve as a poignant reminder that our differences should be embraced. Acceptance does not mean conformity, but rather an appreciation of the unique contributions and perspectives that each person brings. It is through acceptance that we can truly forge meaningful connections and create a more inclusive society.

Furthermore, Quindlen’s essay encourages me to examine my own prejudices and biases. It challenges me to confront any preconceived notions I may hold and to strive for a deeper understanding of others. It prompts me to question the narratives I have internalized and to actively seek out diverse voices and perspectives. Through self-reflection and a willingness to challenge my own assumptions, I can contribute to fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.

As I conclude my reflective journey through ‘Quilt of a Country,’ I am left with a renewed sense of appreciation for the diversity that defines America. I am reminded of the importance of unity amidst our differences and the power of acceptance in shaping our collective identity. Quindlen’s words inspire me to be an advocate for inclusivity, to celebrate diversity, and to challenge societal norms that perpetuate divisions.

In the tapestry of America, we are all threads, intricately woven together. Each person’s story, culture, and background contribute to the vibrancy and strength of our nation. It is our responsibility to honor and respect the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their differences. Through reflection and self-examination, we can cultivate a society that cherishes diversity, embraces unity, and upholds the values upon which this nation was founded.

Quindlen’s thesis is how important the idea of a home is for an individual’s life. For instance, “No drawer that holds the spoons. No window to look out upon the world. My God. That is everything”(Quindlen 106). Quindlen argues that a home should have the essential requirements to make a home feel like your own, even the basic necessities like a drawer that holds the spoons.

Purpose and Audience

I think Quindlen’s purpose in writing this essay is to show the audience the importance of a home. Having a home is not about the size or the quality, but the experiences and memories you create living there. Quindlen suggests, “Home is where the heart is,”(105) she believes your home should be special to you.

Method and Structure

I think Quindlen begins the story with Ann because she is an example of someone who was put aside because she did not have enough value. Quindlen demonstrates, “You are where you live. She was somebody”(105). The author argues that since Ann did not have a home she was not important enough since your home defines who you are, but Quindlen knew she was still a person with or without a home. Quindlen could have also begun her essay by illustrating the struggles Ann was going through and asking Ann how she felt when she lost her home.

Dumpster Diving

Meaning

When Eighner ends his essay with the statement “I am sorry for them,”(184) he is referring to the materialistic people. Eighner remarks, “Between us are the rat-race millions who have confounded themselves with the objects they grasp and who nightly scavenge the cable channels for they know not what”(184). This illustrates how people are so caught up in the fantasy of having enviable objects to the point where they keep searching for more. This statement related to the main point of Eighner’s essay by showing how materialistic things don’t matter if you are living a stable lifestyle and shouldn’t want more if it is not needed.

Purpose and Audience

I think Eigner goes into considerable detail about the food he finds in the Dumpsters to show how people waste adequate food that could have been eaten. Eigner describes, “One of my favorite finds is yogurt — because it will keep for several days, even in warm weather” (183). He argues, that the food thrown out can last for days and is going to waste when someone who does not have food can eat it.

In her vehement article, The C Word in the Hallway, Anna Quindlen addresses and exploits the issue of mental health in children and the ignorance that trails behind it. Quindlen utilizes pathos and ethos as well as multiple accounts of extended metaphors and repetition in order to urge parents, caregivers, and even teenagers to stop undermining the extremities of mental health and to start acknowledging it as a treatable illness. Her use of explicit and straightforward diction and criticism evokes a disappointed and indignant tone, essentially placing the blame on naïve parents.

Quindlen commences her article with, “The saddest phrase I’ve read in a long time is this one: psychological autopsy.” Considering that her work was published in the Newsweek and she is well known for her columns and commentary in The New York Times, this statement alone elicits an emotional response from her audience and aids in her attempt to build credibility. For Quindlen to undoubtedly state that out of all her years of writing and observing, this statement is the most upsetting that she’s heard, carries a lot of weight. Quindlen uses this statement to strengthen her claim that mental health is not being taken as seriously as it should be. The doctors that are trained to find these issues in children simply shrug it off and perform psychological autopsies for suicides or homicides that, with proper treatment, could have been prevented. As Quindlen says “it has become commonplace to have…murder suspects with acne problems” she has a demeaning tone that has now guilted her audience into realizing how normal and nonchalantly mental health is treated at home, and at school and calling on them to actively change that.

To stress the heartbreaking reality of this issue, Quindlen shifts to real life examples where mental health was neglected and produced appalling results. By including the accounts of the killings performed by Sam Manzie and Kip Kinkel, she substantially wants her audience to recognize that these children shouldn’t be held accountable for the crimes they committed. Quindlen believes that Manzie and Kinkel were not the perpetrators, but the victims, simply because of untreated psychological issues. No parent wants to be the reason why their child is killing and hurting others, especially at such a young age. She includes these accounts of Manzie and Kinkel in order to appeal emotionally to her audience by instilling fear on them. In her article, Quindlen deliberately mentions that both children did receive psychological evaluations before their misdeeds, however due to their parents’ insensitivity, their issues were not treated. By including this, Quindlen reiterates the need for parents to truly accept that mental health is necessary for children to be sane. Quindlen brings awareness to the relevancy of this topic and the common “excuses, excuses” that is said following the mention of mental health in association with homicides and mass shootings. Her candid tone justifies that mental health is not used as an excuse, but as an underrated condition that could develop into one’s demise.

Towards the end of her editorial, Quindlen provides her audience with an extended metaphor that truly ties her ideas together; comparing treatment to those who are emotionally disturbed to immunization for babies.