HUM 102 Module Four Project Draft Template
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School
Southern New Hampshire University *
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Course
102
Subject
Arts Humanities
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by LoisaNerd53
HUM 102 Module Four Project Draft Template
Complete this template by replacing the bracketed text with the relevant information.
Part One: Choose the Creative Works
1.
Already drafted for your Module Two project proposal
2.
Already drafted for your Module Two project proposal
3.
Describe the value of the diverse perspectives demonstrated in the chosen creative works.
In the movie Garden State, one of my chosen creative works, there are quite a few aspects of diverse
perspective demonstrated. Andrews journey of “emotional awakening” is crucial throughout the film. His
different interactions with characters in the movie, especially Sam, provides different perspectives on
life, love, and self-discovery. Natalie Portman’s character Sam is very available, desirable, and genuinely
likes Andrew. Her openess contrasts with his emotional barrier, emphasizing the value of vulnerability
and connection. We see friendships in which there are diverse viewpoints and experiences help to
remind Andrew of his past and help to shape his future. In a nutshell, the film Garden State celebrates
the richness of diverse perspectives, allowing viewers to reflect on their own emotional journeys, as well
as their connections and relationships with others.
The other creative work that I have chosen is the song Sober by Demi Lovato. Some examples of
diverse perspective represented in this song are personal experiences, societal perspectives, and the
emotional turmoil associated with addiction. This song is a very raw and honest account of Demi’s
personal struggle with sobriety. There are lyrics pertaining to her guilt and regret such as, “Momma, im
so sorry, im not sober anymore,” and “daddy please forgive me for the drinks spilled on the floor.” The
lyrics also talk about the pressure of obtaining a public image and the societal pressures and
expectations placed upon her. The diverse perspectives in this song add depth and complexity, making it
a powerful commentary on addiction. “Sober” brings awareness to the pressures and expectations that
public figures often face, but even more importantly, by sharing her personal experiences, Lovato makes
the song relatable to people that may be facing similar struggles. Famous people are just like you and
me. The diverse perspectives in this song enhance the lyrical depth as well as contribute to the impact
the song has as a piece of social commentary on addiction.
4.
Describe potential biases and assumption
s
present in the creative works in relation to the topic.
The portrayl of mental health in movies, songs, and other media can significantly impact public
perception and understanding. Unfortunately biases, negative assumptions and misrepresentations
often persist in different creative works about mental illness. In the movie Garden State, characters with
mental health conditions seem to be reduced down into different stereotypes, which feeds into the
harmful notion that people with mental illness are very one dimensional or that they are solely defined
by their mental conditions. The film may lead to the assumption that mental health struggles can be
dangerous, or a joke, failing to recognize the diversity and complexity of experiences that come from the
topic of mental health. In the movie they have a way of romanticizing or oversimplifying mental health
issues and recovery. In one regard it portrays mental issues as a source of artistic brilliance, and while
creativity and mental health challenges can coexist, oversimplifying can downplay the real struggles
people with these conditions go through. The film also can lead to the assumption that a single turning
event such as a romantic relationship, can magically ease the symptoms and aid in the mental health
recovery process. One stigma that caught my attention in this film is the one that taking medication is a
sign of weakness or defeat. It leads to the assumption that medication or therapy can be useless or
unnecessary which could discourage viewers from seeking professional help. In its portrayls of mental
health, Garden State, in my opinion, missed an opportunity to educate on the topic of mental health and
reduce biases.
Even though the song Sober is a very deep personal account of Demi’s struggles with mental
heath and addiction, like most creative works, its subject to biases and assumption of its creator and its
audience. Part of the song suggests that addiction is a personal issue rather than a complex health issue
that involves genetic, environmental, and pshycological factors. This perspective emphasizes the stigma
and shame that can surround addiction. The line “im not sober anymore” implies the assumption that
sobriety is the only path to recovery, which overlooks other harm reduction approaches that can also be
affective to some individuals. “Im sorry to myself,” is a heavy line in the song that places a strong
emphasis on personal responsibility for recovery and even though personal responsibility is certainly a
part of recovery, this perspective overshadows the importance of factors such as access to quality
mental health care and the many different outlets of support out there. These biases and assumptions
are not unique to this song or Demi Lovato. They are present in many creative works about mental
health and addiction. As the audience and listeners of media its crucial for us to challenge these
narratives and look beyond the context of these works and see the bigger picture and reality of mental
health in general.
Part Two: Self and Society
1.
Describe how the creative works create meaning surrounding the topic.
Garden States weaves together personal experiences, music, nature, and vulnerability to create a
meaningful depiction of mental health. It allows the audience to reflect on their own emotional journeys
and find comfort in shared human experiences The film contributes to the understanding of mental
health by keeping a very realistic point of view. It does not sensationalize mental health, there is no
magic snap of a finger and youre cured. There are no quick fixes or easy solutions when it comes to
mental health and in my opinion this film encourages empathy, self-awareness, and helps people
recognize that healing isn’t instantaneous, it’s a gradual process, and that is something almost all of us
can relate to, mental conditions or not. That’s just part of being human.
Demi Lovato puts herself out there in a way that leaves her completely vulnerable with the song
“Sober.” We see more and more celebrities and influencers opening up about their struggles with
addiction and mental health, and because of the impact they have, its given a whole new meaning to the
topic. In this song, Demi reveals the “not so pretty” side of addiction and the reality of relapse. Her
transparency and courage has earned her a lot of respect from fans and others in the industry. In a world
where substance abuse can be so glorified, she stands out as someone who confronts and reveals the
harsh reality behind addiction and Demi has used her platform to help end the bias surrounding
addiction and mental health and gives hope to those who need it most.
2.
Describe how the creative works have impacted society’s perception of the topic.
Demi Lovato’s song Sober has had a significant impact on societies perception of mental health,
particularly to addiction and recovery. By openly discussing her struggles, she has helped to destigmatize
addiction and mental health issues and that helps to encourage others to share their experiences and to
seek help. The song humanizes addiction by showing it as a struggle faced by many people, including
celebrities. It shows the reality of the recovery process and how it is a journey of many ups and downs
which can bring understanding and empathy to people in recovery. This song can lead to conversations
and discussions that lead an increase in awareness and support. Through her music, Lovato has become
a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health and addiction, showing that even in the
spotlight, its okay to acknowledge ongoing struggles and to seek support.
The
movie Garden State impacts the perceptions of mental health by directly breaking down
stigma, highlighting the importance of seeking help and finding heathy coping mechanisms. By depicting
the main characters emotional challenges, the film humanizes mental health struggles which encourages
empathy and understanding. Garden State helped contribute to a more open conversation about mental
health, emphasizing the importance seeking support and breaking down the biases surrounding the
topic itself.
3.
Describe how the creative works might be perceived by different groups of people.
The movie Garden State has produced diverse perceptions from various audiences. Some seem to
appreciate the films authenticity and indie charm and its portrayl of emtotional struggles while others
seem to criticize for being sentimental and that it relies on to many cliches. Some may find the movie to
be relatable, especially if they’ve faced their own quarter-life crisis or battled mental health and
depression. Others may put down the fact that the main character has found this dream girl and seems
to rely on her to “save him” in a sense. Wether or not this film resonates with people, I believe, will
depend on their perspective and life experiences.
Just as with Garden State, Sober can be perceived differently by various groups of people based
on their experiences, understanding, and perspectives. Their perception of the song Sober also could
heavily rely on their relationship with Demi Lovatos music as a whole.
4.
Explain how the creative works influence the development of empathy regarding the topic.
Garden State portrays empathy as a vital element that bridges emotional
gaps, promotes and fosters
connection, and contributes to our overall well-being. Zach Braff, the writer and director of the film, used
his own personal experiences and struggles to influence the creation of the main characters. Through
their actions, we witness first hand the power of empathy in shaping mental health and human
connections.
5.
Explain how the creative works encourage critical thinking regarding the topic.
While the movie Garden State has presented some
flaws, it serves as a canvas for critical thinking and
examination of experiences involving mental health, different societal expectations, and the delicate
balance between reality and imagination. Zach Braff’s vulnerability in creating this film reminds us that
creative expression can be both therapeutic and challenging.
References
Lovato, D. (Songwriter). (2018). Sober [Recorded by Demi Lovato]. Hollywood and Safehouse Records.
Braff, Z. (Director). (2004). Garden State [Film].
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