Writing 105

       Imagine one day waking up without the ability to run, walk, stand, or do anything on two legs. Imagine how your life would be affected, whether it be your job, relationships, or emotional wellbeing. Fortunately, most people will never have to worry about that, but for some people, it’s a reality they can’t escape. This was almost the case for Cliff Devries, the diving coach at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). A surgery to remove a spinal tumor left Cliff paralyzed from the neck down, removing the ability to walk and stand on two legs, or so the doctors thought. His motivation to overcome these obstacles allowed him to learn to walk again. But what motivates Cliff? Every year on his birthday he dives into his pool, which is remarkable, but for Cliff, it's what keeps him moving for the other 364 days of the year.      Tackling obstacles is nothing new for Cliff, as he is paralyzed. He also challenges the conventional idea that people with ...

         The cover for The New Yorker, What So Proudly We Hailed on November 5th, 2001 was heavily influenced by events from that time period. Looking at the date, you’ll realize that November 5th, 2001 is close to two months after the events on September 11th, 2001. More specifically, since the collapse of the twin towers was located right in New York City, New Yorkers were more touched by 9/11 thus it would only make sense for The New Yorker to publish an article about it. The cover targets many issues in America that were present at the time. The first one is the flags all over the taxi. The bright yellow taxi is a symbol of New York City, which is why it was used. Additionally There is a sign that says “God Bless America.” Those two objects as well as the title of the magazine “What So Proudly We Hail,” are references to the patriotism that was widespread throughout the US. The artist of the cover placed these objects there with the intent of showing the ...