Journal Question #24 (2010-2011)

The title of this painting is "The Card Players," by a french artist named Paul Cezanne.  Cezanne lived in the late 19th into the early 20th century.  Currently, there is show of his card player paintings - he did a number of them - in New York City.  How do you react to this work?  Talk about its subject (4 men playing cards), its composition (3 figures sitting, one standing, the shapes of the hats, the pipes, the table, the curtain...), its colors (of course, the painting is a lot more vibrant in person), or anything else the painting brings to mind.  Do you like this sort of art?  Other kinds?

Journal Question #23 (2010-2011)

Happy Valentine's Day.  The red rose is a symbol of love, and many men will be giving roses to their sweethearts today.  Some people dislike Valentine's Day, partly because it can make people who don't have a sweetheart at the moment feel lonely.  Lots of men don't like Valentine's Day because of the pressure they feel to do something nice for their girlfriend/wife.  Maybe the best way to look at Feb. 14 is as a day to think of those you love (not just sweethearts), especially those you can't see this day.  What do you think?  Do you like Valentine's Day?  Why or why not?

Journal Question #22 (2010-2011)

After George Washington, Abraham Lincoln is probably the most famous American President.  He was president during this country's Civil War (1860-1865), signed the "Emancipation Proclamation," which abolished slavery, and gave several memorable speeches, including "The Gettysburg Address," possibly the most important political speech in American history.  This Saturday (February 12) is Lincoln's birthday.  Have you heard of Lincoln?  Can you think of a political figure in your country that has similar fame and inspires people to this day?