tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5425514987715337437.post5621408017539380769..comments2024-03-26T22:47:45.276-07:00Comments on Intro to Critical Reading: Unnatural BirthAdamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16302919444091859459noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5425514987715337437.post-80617124946744400322012-02-03T18:11:11.253-08:002012-02-03T18:11:11.253-08:00I don't think the first paragraph accomplishes...I don't think the first paragraph accomplishes anything at all - it's an ok summary of the context of the novel as it relates to Wilson, but at the very least, you should have used the context to clarify your argument.<br /><br />As far as your argument - it should be obvious that the novel is concerned with the ethical consequences of genetic engineering. Could any sane, intelligent reader understand the Oankali in a way which doesn't engage with this issue in *some* fashion? Much of the long, messy middle paragraph basically says this.<br /><br />What's more interesting in the middle paragraph is the claim that a Wilsonian transcendental goal is being articulated here. That's more interesting, and less obvious. It needs to be detailed and defended if it's going to be your argument. Are *you* willing, in other words, to stand up and say that radical, Oankali-esque genetic engineering is exactly what humanity needs? Is that what you're getting at.<br /><br />I am interested in what you're trying to do with the role of rape in the novel, but it seems like an afterthought more than anything. Are you arguing that the rape is resistance to (or the reaction to the resistance to) transendental goals?<br /><br />Short version: this seems rushed and careless in many ways, with too many generalities and too little actual argument, but there are some areas of real potential.Adamhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16302919444091859459noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5425514987715337437.post-88455122129891522322012-02-02T13:11:30.622-08:002012-02-02T13:11:30.622-08:00I think there's a lot of potential for good ma...I think there's a lot of potential for good material in the Biblical comparison you give in this entry, but I suppose if that's a separate issue to you then it's not totally necessary to expound upon it. With the almost god-man relationship the Oankali have the humans, there's a definitely a few parallels between the two works. <br />In light of many people questioning the actions of the humans for being stubborn and unwilling to accept the changes being forced upon them, I think it might be valuable to explore the reasons for the Oankali's blunt, aggressive plan of action towards the humans. Unusual situations often call for unusual measures and reactions, and in light of the relatively bizarre nature of the Oankali's activities, perhaps the resistance of the humans doesn't seem as drastic or difficult to comprehend. <br />Also, as we read further into the second book, and learn more about this offspring that Lilith will be mother to, the Frankenstein comparison you raise could definitely become more important. Perhaps it would be worthwhile to keep Frankenstein in mind.Keith Curranhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00200348032207584256noreply@blogger.com