There's a brand new dance but I don't know its name~
...I'm still in quite the state of shock at getting A on my General Paper prelim exam. But in a good way. :D
For a measure of how tough GP actually is - I was doing Secondary 4 (roughly Year 12, for the USA-folks) English at Secondary 2, two years ahead of my grade. And still my entire class and I failed the first GP test we ever had. Thanks, MOE.
So here's my essay like I promised, to beef up my LJ and give the pretense that it's not all dolly-speak. I broke up the paragraphs so instead of a wall of text, you get bricks stacked on each other instead wait, is that not a wall?
Discuss the importance of image.
"Anything popular is bad." Said the Irish poet Oscar Wilde. By his standard, no two people will have the same look, and standing out from the crowd would be espoused and endorsed. Yet, an image of conformity is more likely to be accepted by the public. In today's materialistic world, it is often argued that image is everything, but others rebut that image is non-representational of a person's moral values and character. Image is indeed crucial, but without good character, image alone will get one nowhere.
Naysayers who disbelieve the power of image frequently use the argument that image is merely a façade, and that we cannot judge a person by mere appearance. Perhaps this would hold true in an idealistic world, but the sad truth is that no matter how shallow it seems, first impressions do play an important part in people's perceptions. Why else would hopeful interviewees and applicants take such care with their image, having a well groomed appearance and smart set of clothes? Indeed, image is important in determining public opinion and other people's impression of oneself. In the relatively conservative global society, it is still common to see politicians and other celebrities dress demurely. Kate Middleton is most often seen in classic ensembles, and one would be hard-pressed to deem her image as 'revolutionary'. By conforming to the expected image as befitting her station, she avoids slander and overly-hyped speculations of her character. This demonstrates the importance of portraying the correct image, especially for figures in the public eye.
Of course, the 'correct image' changes depending on situations. In sectors where there is a strong emphasis on creative talent, having a wild image can boost one's career. American Idol first runner up Adam Lambert was known for his flamboyant and outgoing dress sense, and this has increased his prominence and popularity among fans, as well as gaining him greater media coverage. However, despite his superior singing abilities, he ultimately lost out to Kris Allen, who projected a completely polar opposite image - that of a clean-cut, wholesome American. Maybe looking grungy can lead to fifteen minutes of fame, but the good boy image always wins out in the long run. Thus, it is again clear that certain images are called for in different situations, and that it holds a crucial spot in determining public opinion. It is an unavoidable fact that people judge others based on what they see, and it cements a stereotype in the minds of the public.
Having a well-cultivated image can lead to greater opportunities. By knowing when to conform and when to break out of the norm increases the chances of being able to ascend the status quo. Late fashion designer Alexander McQueen understood this well, and was capable of creating both outrageous costumes for the catwalk and beautifully chic dresses for sidewalk. While the former increased his value as an artist and pushed the boundaries of creativity, the latter was where profit lay. Image has to be carefully groomed, and being able to read the situation and its requirements will lead to opportunities for success.
Some may argue that only conformation to society's expectations holds any value, but increasingly there has been a call for looks that defy the norm. Andrej Peijic's androgynous good looks and ability to successfully cross-dress have led to him becoming one of the top twenty models in the world for both menswear and women's fashion - in a mere six months. His quick rise to success illustrates how times are evolving, and revolution is widely embraced in the creative industries. Right now, defying gender stereotypes is the new black, and there has thus been an increase in androgynous-looking and transgender models strutting down the runway. It is apparent that image is also fluid and ever-changing, based on the evolving tastes of the public. One would be able to better scale the ladder to success by assessing the situation to determine the image needed for the occasion.
However, while it is true that image can open doors, it is not everything. Without good character to sustain it, image is very short-lived. One action demonstrating bad character is enough to destroy any well-groomed image. Likewise, it is possible to change people's impressions through continued displays of excellent qualities. An apt example for the former situation would be when Roger Federer spit on the tennis court after losing a match. His credibility as a sportsman of good characteristics and role model was severely compromised in that single move, which revealed his inability to lose gracefully. Tiger Wood's well-publicised affair resulted in his loss of sponsors like Gatorade, ruining his entire career so carefully built up over years. Thus, while image can be crucial, it is also vital that one develops clear moral values. Character is inevitably displayed, and excellence will shine through.
Others might insist that since society is evolving, character and key values have also changed and are therefore unimportant. This is a myopic view - indeed, society is changing rapidly, bit it still retains its core values and has remained conservative. Good character traits are universal, and displays of tantrums or dishonourable behavior is still able to destroy one's image and subsequently, future. Susan Boyle was admired by millions of fans for her singing talent, despite her looks. In this, her talent overcame her image of a common plain Jane. Yet, when she lashed out at reporters, fans were instantly turned off; and as reports of her bad behavior and rudeness spread, the number of supporters decreased dramatically. It is hence possible to overcome image in positive as well as negative ways. While it is important, it is definitely not everything. Character is also equally needed - where image will allow one toe scale the ladder to success, character will keep one there. As the artist Andy Warhol once said, "Everyone will have fifteen minutes of fame." Whether one is able to remain successful depends on one's qualities and character.
Image is also able to push forth good causes. Many people have been able to wield image as a weapon to promote their way of life or causes they believe in. This shows the power of image to make statements, to cause people to sit up and take notice. UK-based fashion label Stella McCartney promotes environmental care through the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials. By using the ability of image to transcend geographical barricades, it is used for a good purpose, and the wide reach ensures that people the world over are able to learn more about this cause.
Celebrities are no stranger to using their image to populate a certain way of thinking, thus pushing social barriers as well. Lady Gaga's (in)famous meat dress actually demonstrates her dedication to vegetarianism, as well as supporting her stance that one should never be afraid to go against the norm. The mass of media reports meant that she was able to have a wide outreach, and allowed many fans internationally to understand her point of view and encouragement. However, there have been accusations of animal cruelty by the animal welfare group PETA. Image may be very good at bringing messages across, but it is evident that there is some potential to be misunderstood. Nonetheless, the aggressive nature of PETA does not sit well with the public, who largely ignored the rash accusations and were intrigued by Lady Gaga's antics instead.
In summary, image is critical, especially in the materialistic world today. People tend to form opinions based on image, and thus cultivating an appropriate image is necessary. Possessing the right image breeds confidence and success. This said, character is of even greater importance, for image on its own is not sustainable. In the long run, character plays the bigger role, and image merely complements it.
I'm sorry if it bored you - I still lack what the lecturer calls 'personal voice' so the essay ends up informative but dull. Written in ninety minutes, with half an hour spent on planning and the other hour with the pen flying. I ran out of time towards the end, so the conclusion is really short. I'm also aware that I repeat key phrases too much sometimes. D: I did want to work in Tin Pei Lin and Michelle Obama and Brooke Shields, but I ran out of points that required examples. I would have loved to delve more into haute couture, but any more and I'll be slightly off topic, sadly.
This is proof that when you want me to churn out an A-quality essay you need to give me inspiration to fuel my clothes junkie self and my LJ is just for indulging my hobbies and is actually not very intellectual at all. Love drives everything, obviously.
And omg these are seriously the best wingtips I've ever seen. Also damn this trench coat is like mine except mine has white buttons, I want it so bad so I can bring Kaitou on holiday in matching coats. I will confess to spending an hour or so just drooling at clothes every day, both for humans and dolls alike. -__________-+++
For a measure of how tough GP actually is - I was doing Secondary 4 (roughly Year 12, for the USA-folks) English at Secondary 2, two years ahead of my grade. And still my entire class and I failed the first GP test we ever had. Thanks, MOE.
So here's my essay like I promised, to beef up my LJ and give the pretense that it's not all dolly-speak. I broke up the paragraphs so instead of a wall of text, you get bricks stacked on each other instead wait, is that not a wall?
Discuss the importance of image.
"Anything popular is bad." Said the Irish poet Oscar Wilde. By his standard, no two people will have the same look, and standing out from the crowd would be espoused and endorsed. Yet, an image of conformity is more likely to be accepted by the public. In today's materialistic world, it is often argued that image is everything, but others rebut that image is non-representational of a person's moral values and character. Image is indeed crucial, but without good character, image alone will get one nowhere.
Naysayers who disbelieve the power of image frequently use the argument that image is merely a façade, and that we cannot judge a person by mere appearance. Perhaps this would hold true in an idealistic world, but the sad truth is that no matter how shallow it seems, first impressions do play an important part in people's perceptions. Why else would hopeful interviewees and applicants take such care with their image, having a well groomed appearance and smart set of clothes? Indeed, image is important in determining public opinion and other people's impression of oneself. In the relatively conservative global society, it is still common to see politicians and other celebrities dress demurely. Kate Middleton is most often seen in classic ensembles, and one would be hard-pressed to deem her image as 'revolutionary'. By conforming to the expected image as befitting her station, she avoids slander and overly-hyped speculations of her character. This demonstrates the importance of portraying the correct image, especially for figures in the public eye.
Of course, the 'correct image' changes depending on situations. In sectors where there is a strong emphasis on creative talent, having a wild image can boost one's career. American Idol first runner up Adam Lambert was known for his flamboyant and outgoing dress sense, and this has increased his prominence and popularity among fans, as well as gaining him greater media coverage. However, despite his superior singing abilities, he ultimately lost out to Kris Allen, who projected a completely polar opposite image - that of a clean-cut, wholesome American. Maybe looking grungy can lead to fifteen minutes of fame, but the good boy image always wins out in the long run. Thus, it is again clear that certain images are called for in different situations, and that it holds a crucial spot in determining public opinion. It is an unavoidable fact that people judge others based on what they see, and it cements a stereotype in the minds of the public.
Having a well-cultivated image can lead to greater opportunities. By knowing when to conform and when to break out of the norm increases the chances of being able to ascend the status quo. Late fashion designer Alexander McQueen understood this well, and was capable of creating both outrageous costumes for the catwalk and beautifully chic dresses for sidewalk. While the former increased his value as an artist and pushed the boundaries of creativity, the latter was where profit lay. Image has to be carefully groomed, and being able to read the situation and its requirements will lead to opportunities for success.
Some may argue that only conformation to society's expectations holds any value, but increasingly there has been a call for looks that defy the norm. Andrej Peijic's androgynous good looks and ability to successfully cross-dress have led to him becoming one of the top twenty models in the world for both menswear and women's fashion - in a mere six months. His quick rise to success illustrates how times are evolving, and revolution is widely embraced in the creative industries. Right now, defying gender stereotypes is the new black, and there has thus been an increase in androgynous-looking and transgender models strutting down the runway. It is apparent that image is also fluid and ever-changing, based on the evolving tastes of the public. One would be able to better scale the ladder to success by assessing the situation to determine the image needed for the occasion.
However, while it is true that image can open doors, it is not everything. Without good character to sustain it, image is very short-lived. One action demonstrating bad character is enough to destroy any well-groomed image. Likewise, it is possible to change people's impressions through continued displays of excellent qualities. An apt example for the former situation would be when Roger Federer spit on the tennis court after losing a match. His credibility as a sportsman of good characteristics and role model was severely compromised in that single move, which revealed his inability to lose gracefully. Tiger Wood's well-publicised affair resulted in his loss of sponsors like Gatorade, ruining his entire career so carefully built up over years. Thus, while image can be crucial, it is also vital that one develops clear moral values. Character is inevitably displayed, and excellence will shine through.
Others might insist that since society is evolving, character and key values have also changed and are therefore unimportant. This is a myopic view - indeed, society is changing rapidly, bit it still retains its core values and has remained conservative. Good character traits are universal, and displays of tantrums or dishonourable behavior is still able to destroy one's image and subsequently, future. Susan Boyle was admired by millions of fans for her singing talent, despite her looks. In this, her talent overcame her image of a common plain Jane. Yet, when she lashed out at reporters, fans were instantly turned off; and as reports of her bad behavior and rudeness spread, the number of supporters decreased dramatically. It is hence possible to overcome image in positive as well as negative ways. While it is important, it is definitely not everything. Character is also equally needed - where image will allow one toe scale the ladder to success, character will keep one there. As the artist Andy Warhol once said, "Everyone will have fifteen minutes of fame." Whether one is able to remain successful depends on one's qualities and character.
Image is also able to push forth good causes. Many people have been able to wield image as a weapon to promote their way of life or causes they believe in. This shows the power of image to make statements, to cause people to sit up and take notice. UK-based fashion label Stella McCartney promotes environmental care through the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials. By using the ability of image to transcend geographical barricades, it is used for a good purpose, and the wide reach ensures that people the world over are able to learn more about this cause.
Celebrities are no stranger to using their image to populate a certain way of thinking, thus pushing social barriers as well. Lady Gaga's (in)famous meat dress actually demonstrates her dedication to vegetarianism, as well as supporting her stance that one should never be afraid to go against the norm. The mass of media reports meant that she was able to have a wide outreach, and allowed many fans internationally to understand her point of view and encouragement. However, there have been accusations of animal cruelty by the animal welfare group PETA. Image may be very good at bringing messages across, but it is evident that there is some potential to be misunderstood. Nonetheless, the aggressive nature of PETA does not sit well with the public, who largely ignored the rash accusations and were intrigued by Lady Gaga's antics instead.
In summary, image is critical, especially in the materialistic world today. People tend to form opinions based on image, and thus cultivating an appropriate image is necessary. Possessing the right image breeds confidence and success. This said, character is of even greater importance, for image on its own is not sustainable. In the long run, character plays the bigger role, and image merely complements it.
I'm sorry if it bored you - I still lack what the lecturer calls 'personal voice' so the essay ends up informative but dull. Written in ninety minutes, with half an hour spent on planning and the other hour with the pen flying. I ran out of time towards the end, so the conclusion is really short. I'm also aware that I repeat key phrases too much sometimes. D: I did want to work in Tin Pei Lin and Michelle Obama and Brooke Shields, but I ran out of points that required examples. I would have loved to delve more into haute couture, but any more and I'll be slightly off topic, sadly.
This is proof that when you want me to churn out an A-quality essay you need to give me inspiration to fuel my clothes junkie self and my LJ is just for indulging my hobbies and is actually not very intellectual at all. Love drives everything, obviously.
And omg these are seriously the best wingtips I've ever seen. Also damn this trench coat is like mine except mine has white buttons, I want it so bad so I can bring Kaitou on holiday in matching coats. I will confess to spending an hour or so just drooling at clothes every day, both for humans and dolls alike. -__________-+++