Part 2 Questions with Answers

1. Describe a book or a film that had a strong impact on you.

You should say:

• What it was?
• When you read or saw it?
• How it influenced you?
• Did you like it? Why?

The book that had a profound impact on me is "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.

1. What It Was: "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a classic American novel, first published in 1960, set in the racially charged atmosphere of the 1930s deep South. It addresses themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and the loss of innocence.
2. When I Read It: I read the book during my high school years as part of the English literature curriculum.
3. How It Influenced Me: The book influenced me in several ways:
   • Empathy and Compassion: Through the narrative, I gained a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by marginalized individuals and the importance of empathy and compassion in fostering a just and equal society.
   • Morality and Integrity: The character of Atticus Finch, the protagonist's father, taught me the significance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity and societal pressure.
   • Awareness of Prejudice: The book exposed me to the ugliness of prejudice and the destructive power of ignorance and intolerance. It made me reflect on my own biases and strive to be more open-minded.
   • Value of Friendship: The strong bond between the young protagonists, Scout and Jem, emphasizes the value of true friendship, loyalty, and the importance of accepting others for who they are.
4. Did I Like It and Why: I loved "To Kill a Mockingbird" because of its powerful storytelling, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. The novel's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from anger and frustration to hope and inspiration, made it a compelling and unforgettable read. The story's timeless relevance and its ability to tackle complex social issues with sensitivity and nuance left a lasting impact on me.

Overall, "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers, challenging us to confront our own biases and strive for a more just and compassionate world. It remains one of my all-time favorite books, as its lessons and messages continue to shape my perspectives and actions.

2. Describe a work of art that you find interesting.

You should say:

• What the work of art is?
• Where you saw it?
• What it looks like?
• Explain why you find it interesting.

The work of art that captivates my imagination is "Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh.

1. What It Is: "Starry Night" is an iconic oil painting created by the Dutch post-impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh in 1889. It is one of his most renowned masterpieces.
2. Where I Saw It: I had the privilege of viewing "Starry Night" at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City during a visit to the museum's art collection.
3. What It Looks Like: "Starry Night" portrays a tranquil night scene with a swirling sky filled with luminous stars, a crescent moon, and bold strokes representing the village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The village is depicted below, nestled amidst dark cypress trees that curve toward the sky. The contrast between the bright, swirling sky and the serene village creates a striking visual impact.
4. Why I Find It Interesting: Several aspects of "Starry Night" make it a profoundly captivating work of art:
   • Expressive Brushwork: Van Gogh's distinct, energetic brushstrokes add dynamism and intensity to the painting. The swirling patterns in the sky evoke a sense of movement, drawing the viewer into the artist's emotional and imaginative world.
   • Emotional Depth: The painting conveys a profound sense of emotion and turmoil, possibly reflecting the artist's inner struggles. It evokes a mix of tranquility and melancholy, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of the human experience.
   • Connection to Nature: "Starry Night" exemplifies van Gogh's fascination with nature and his ability to infuse it with emotion and spirituality. The celestial elements and the majestic landscape represent the artist's deep connection to the natural world.
   • Timeless Appeal: The universal themes of nature, night, and the human condition depicted in "Starry Night" make it an enduring and timeless piece of art. Its ability to resonate with audiences across generations underscores its significance in the art world.
   • Artistic Legacy: Van Gogh's tragic life story and his unparalleled contribution to art history add layers of complexity to the painting's appeal. "Starry Night" is a testament to the artist's unique vision and his enduring influence on modern art.

In conclusion, "Starry Night" by Vincent van Gogh is an extraordinary work of art that continues to captivate art enthusiasts and the general public alike. Its expressive beauty, emotional depth, and timeless appeal make it a masterpiece that transcends time and remains an integral part of art appreciation and cultural heritage. Viewing this remarkable painting at MoMA was a profoundly enriching experience that left a lasting impression on my appreciation for art and its power to evoke profound emotions and contemplation.

3. Describe a book that you have recently read.

You should say:

• What the book is about?
• Who wrote it?
• Why you decided to read it?
• Explain what you liked or disliked about the book.

1. What the book is about:
   • The book is titled "The Time Traveler's Wife."
   • It is a romantic science fiction novel.
   • The story revolves around a man named Henry, who involuntarily travels time, and a woman named Clare, his wife, who experiences their relationship out of chronological order.
2. Who wrote it:
   • The book was written by Audrey Niffenegger.
3. Why you decided to read it:
   • I chose to read it after hearing several friends' recommendations.
   • The unique blend of time travel and romance intrigued me, making it stand out from other books.
4. What you liked about the book:
   • The complex characters and their emotional journey kept me engaged throughout.
   • The non-linear narrative added an element of suspense and made the story more compelling.
   • The author's writing style was captivating and brought out the emotions of the characters vividly.
5. What you disliked about the book:
   • At times, the non-linear storytelling was confusing and required more attention to follow the events accurately.
   • Some parts of the plot felt rushed, leaving certain aspects of the story underdeveloped.

4. Describe a film that made you laugh.

You should say:

• What the film is called?
• Who is in it?
• What the film is about?
• Explain why the film made you laugh.

1. Film: "The Hangover."

2. Cast:

   • Bradley Cooper
   • Ed Helms
   • Zach Galifianakis

3. Plot:

   • A group of friends go to Las Vegas to celebrate a bachelor party.
   • They wake up the next morning without memory of the previous night's events.
   • They embark on a wild, hilarious adventure to piece together the events and find the missing groom.

4. Reason for Laughter:

   • Clever and Outrageous Humor:
     1. Unexpected and chaotic situations.
     2. The excellent comedic timing of the characters.
     3. One hilarious scene after another.
   • The Absurdity of Situations:
     1. The characters find themselves in absurd predicaments.
     2. Funny attempts to solve their problems.
   • Witty Dialogues and Slapstick Comedy:
     1. Hilarious dialogues add to the humor.
     2. Slapstick elements that bring laughter.
   • Over-the-Top Performances:
     1. Actors' performances contribute to the enjoyment.
     2. Their portrayal of characters is comedic gold.
   • Perfect Blend of Humor and Camaraderie:
     1. The film's humor is enhanced by the friendship among the characters.
     2. Unpredictable events create an entertaining experience.

The film "The Hangover" is a memorable and hilarious comedy that kept me laughing from start to finish, thanks to its clever humor, outrageous situations, witty dialogues, slapstick comedy, and the fantastic performances of the cast.