I originally reviewed The Last Lecture for reading purposes, but I think it's going to be the subject of my paper for a lit class. I've asked my roommates and friends for their feedback, and would love your opinions
1. [Policy claim]
Despite the author's hesitation to have his memoir produced as a film, Randy Pausch's The Last Lecture should be produced as a film because it will be able to reach a wider audience and be more accessible to more people due to its shortened length.
2. [Definition claim]
Although a "memoir" is traditionally defined as a recollection of one's memories, The Last Lecture should not be considered a memoir because it is largely dictated to, but written by, its co-author, Jeffrey Zaslow. It should instead be considered a biography since it is largely based on a speech given by Pausch.
3. [Comparison claim]
Although it is clear that the Randy Pausch is suggesting we take our lives too seriously, it is clear that this is contradicted by his discussions about his wife and children, and that he is actually suggesting that these are the only things that should be taken seriously.
4. [Evaluation claim]
While The Last Lecture is considered largely autobiographical, it is an incomplete book in comparison to the author's original speech, which was filmed in its entirety on YouTube. The YouTube video is the more reliable source because it is given spontaneously and without editing by literary agents, co-authors, and publishers.
5. [Cause / Effect claim]
While the author's intention is to deliver his last words, it is actually clear that the author's points are given more clearly in the book form of The Last Lecture. This is achieved because of the serious tone of the writing. The author gets his points across more accurately because he is speaking clearly without the comedic embellishments of his live speech.
I like the thought you're getting at in your comparison claim but it needs a little lovin'. I wouldn't repeat "it is clear". You might also want to add what the book is. (..too seriously in The Last Lecture,) Then maybe clarify your claim a little. (..too seriously in The Last Lecture, he actually contradicts this in his discussions about his wife and children where is suggesting that these are the only things that should be taken seriously.) Something to that effect. Good work though. It sounds like it will be an interesting paper, no matter which thesis you choose.
ReplyDeleteI like number 4 (if you can back it up) because when I think of literature, I usually think of how the form and the way that a story has been crafted contribute to what's being said. But you are saying the opposite: that spontaneity and rawness also make worthwhile contributions to content.
ReplyDeleteI really like your comparison claim! I feel like there is tension there that would help you develop your paper as you discuss the contradiction that appears there.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Danielle -- where I see you making an interesting claim is in considering the form and format of the content (and perhaps the issue of adapting / translating content from one medium to another). I would say that you need to work at this in terms of the authenticity that seems to be what really makes this person's story stand out. Is something more authentic in its original form? What are the conditions by which something can be adapted into another format and amplify rather than reduce that authenticity? Remember Borges' interesting statement that "sometimes the original is not true to the translation."
ReplyDeleteI agree, #4 is one I would like to see developed. But all are great theses.
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