Homework for 1.29 Class
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Rutgers University, Newark *
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Course
102
Subject
English
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
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3
Uploaded by ProfLeopardPerson1474
Mia Castillo
English Composition 102
Professor Stoner
29 January 2024
HOMEWORK 1.29
1.
What emotions did this essay bring up for you? Were they the emotions you expected to arise from an essay about the erotic?
a.
When I read Lorde’s essay, I experienced various emotions, such as feeling empowered, thoughtful, frustrated, and uncomfortable. The essay prompts readers
to reconsider social conventions and confront the repression misconceptions surrounding sexuality, which can elicit different emotions based on the individual reader’s outlook and values. 2.
Look at Lorde's opening paragraph. Is the erotic usually considered a source of power? In what sense? In Lorde's view, what is the relationship between power and the erotic?
a.
Lorde’s opening paragraph suggests that within Western society, the power of the erotic has often been overlooked and even suppressed. Instead of acknowledging it, the erotic has been distorted and misunderstood. Lorde argues that the erotic is a powerful force that resides deep within individuals, particularly women, and has
a spiritual aspect to it. When recognized as such, the erotic can serve as a source of untapped energy, which can be harnessed to drive change. 3.
Does Lorde believe the erotic = sex? What does she argue is the difference between the erotic and the pornographic? a.
In her writing, Lorde makes a point to differentiate between the erotic and sex. She believes that the erotic has been wrongly associated with female inferiority, while in reality, it is a way for individuals to explore and understand their sense of
self amidst complex emotions. Lorde argues that the erotic goes beyond just sexual experiences and encompasses a wide range of feelings, passions, and
connections. According to Lorde, erotic and pornographic fields are different. In his opinion, pornography denies the power of eroticism by emphasizing emotion without emotion. Erotica, on the other hand, represents a deep, satisfying experience that transcends the superficial and refers to the fullness of emotions. 4.
Why is the erotic feared, in her view? a.
According to Lorde, society instills fear in women towards their deepest emotions
and desires, often seen as a threat to established power structures. This fear of the erotic is a tool used to keep individuals obedient to societal norms and maintain oppressive systems.
5.
How can embracing the erotic lead to a more fulfilling, authentic life?
a.
Lorde believes that embracing the erotic can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life by enabling individuals to connect with their deepest emotions. It allows individuals to recognize the power of the erotic and demand excellence from themselves, pursue genuine change, and derive joy and satisfaction from it. To truly embrace the erotic, it must be integrated into all aspects of life, challenging societal norms that limit it to sex. In doing so, it becomes an act of self-affirmation and a rejection of oppressive structures, contributing to a more authentic and self-directed existence. 6.
What rhetorical strategies did you notice? a.
The essay by Lorde is an excellent example of the effective use of literary devices
to convey complex ideas. Lorde employs repetition to underscore key points and draw attention to the societal impact on women's relationship with the erotic. She also uses antithesis to highlight the contrast between the erotic and the pornographic and the difference between power derived from the erotic and power modeled on male structures. Metaphorical language is another device that Lord employs, comparing the erotic to a “well of replenishing and provocative force” and describing it as a “kernel” within herself to convey the depth and richness of the erotic experience. Analogies, such as comparing the fear of the erotic to blinding a painter, help readers visualize and understand complex concepts, adding depth to Lorde's arguments. Finally, throughout the essay, Lorde
employs contrast to highlight the difference between societal expectations and the
potential power and authenticity that can come from embracing the erotic, enhancing the impact of her critique.
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