The World's Best Book Summaries
What is dating down? Is it bad for your happiness and future plans? In The Defining Decade, Meg Jay says that not dating down is an important part of finding a life partner. Dating down means dating someone you would’ve dated in your past, before you were mature or at the point in your life you’re at now. Read more about dating down and why you should avoid it.
What is the cohabitation effect? What is its effect on relationships? The cohabitation effect is when a couple cohabitates without making a strong commitment or begins cohabiting by accident. The cohabitation effect can have negative consequences for relationships. Read more about the cohabitation effect below.
What was the Great Vowel Shift in the history of the English language? How did it change the pronunciation of English vowels? The Great Vowel Shift was a change in the pronunciation of English vowels that took place roughly between 1400 and 1600. Basically, the pronunciation of long vowels moved forward, that is, closer to the front of the mouth. Keep reading to learn about the Great Vowel Shift.
What are the different types of racial microaggressions? What unconscious assumptions do racial microaggressions reveal? Racial microaggressions can be direct and indirect, verbal and non-verbal. Microaggressions are important because they act as signposts for implicit bias and unconscious racist assumptions that might otherwise stay hidden. Read about the different types of racial microaggressions and how to deal with them on both ends.
Why is geography important in literature? What do different geographies symbolize? When an author writes a book, one of the first decisions she needs to make is where it will take place. Geography is a conscious choice and is often used as a plot device. Sometimes, however, the geographical location of a story can tell a reader more about the author than the story. Continue reading to learn more about geography symbols in literature.
What’s the best advice for your 20s? How can you make the most out of these important years of your life? Your 20s are an important part of life where you shape your future and the person you want to be. The best advice for your 20s should focus on how you can build your future and make your best self, personally and professionally. Keep reading for the best advice for your 20s.
Do you ever just stop what you are reading and marvel at the richness and the beauty of the English language? What do you think sets English apart from other languages? English is not only the dominant language of global business and politics but also of literature and oratory, capable of eloquently expressing the most powerful human emotions and desires. Therein lies the beauty of the English language—it is both expedient and expressive. Let’s explore the beauty of the English language and the unique traits that make it so rich and evocative.
What do encoded and explicit sex symbolize in literature? Why is it important to look beyond sex when reading literature? In literature, sex and sexuality are used symbolically in two different ways: encoded sex and explicit sex. Encoded sex means the author uses symbolic imagery to imply sex in a scene, but the reader never sees the sexual act take place. Explicit sex is when the author uses a sex scene to symbolize a larger theme in the story. Continue reading for more information on what sex symbolizes in literature.
What is identity capital? Can you use your identity capital to your benefit? Identity capital is the sum of your personal resources. You can develop your identity capital by taking advantage of opportunities, especially in your twenties. Read more about identity capital and what it means for you.
Why is literature so influenced by the works of Shakespeare? What does an author have to gain by referencing Shakespeare in his work? In the literary world, Shakespeare is considered a sacred text. Authors know that Shakespeare is the most well-known writer in history, so they rely on a reader’s awareness of Shakespeare to deepen the meaning of their own work. Keep reading for more information about the influence of Shakespeare on literature.