rssenglishworld, The English Literature and Grammar Digest

Beethoven  by Shane Koyczan Section 1: Abusive Childhood and Forced Genius (“Listen. / His father made a habit out of hitting him… Beethoven.”) Paraphrase: The poet begins by asking the reader to listen carefully. Beethoven’s father was violent and abusive. Like some men who drink, shout, or beat their children, he did all three. His cruelty came from a desire to make his son a genius. Beethoven grew up in a home where his name had no value and kindness had to be earned. Only flawless music could win approval. Each perfect note had to rise heavenward, as if pleasing angels, yet even that was not enough. Beethoven, a child who already had hearing problems, poured immense passion into his music but received no mercy. Section 2: Relentless Practice and Constant Rejection (“Who heard his father’s anthem… it was NOT GOOD ENOUGH.”) Paraphrase: Whenever Beethoven touched the piano keys, he heard his father’s harsh judgment telling him he was inadequate. He tried playing slowly, softl...

  Story A Letter to God By Gregorio Lopex Y. Fuentes The house — the only one in the entire valley — sat on the crest of a low hill. From this height one could see the river and the field of ripe corn dotted with the flowers that always promised a good harvest.  The only thing the earth needed was a downpour or at least a shower. Throughout the morning Lencho — who knew his fields intimately — had done nothing else but see the sky towards the north-east.  “Now we’re really going to get some water, woman.” The woman who was preparing supper, replied, “Yes, God willing”.  The older boys were working in the field, while the smaller ones were playing near the house until the woman called to them all,  “Come for dinner”.  It was during the meal that, just as Lencho had predicted, big drops of rain began to fall. In the north-east huge mountains of clouds could be seen approaching. The air was fresh and sweet.  The man went out for no other reason than to ha...