What am I comparing in essay 2?

I took a lot of time thinking about the topic I'm comparing in this essay. After reading through the 

song several times, I realized Eminem brought out two different personas. In the first few verses I believe Slim Shady is speaking(he talks about his life before fame and the affects it has on his life now). While towards the end of the song, another persona comes out; Marshall Mathers. This side of Eminem talks about the negative side of his career along with other problems his rapping career has caused him over the past few years. So back to my essay, I'm comparing Marshall Mathers life before he became "Eminem" (childhood) and his life today. 

Essay #2 in progress!!!

Not Afraid by Eminem

Introduction and thesis-Slim Shady vs. Marshall Mathers:

Marshall Bruce Mathers III, also known as “Slim Shady,” is one of the most famous rappers in the music making world. His music is based on personal experiences he is facing or past events throughout his childhood. Marshall had a rocky experience as a child and he is still learning how to cope with his personal life problems. Marshall Mathers was neglected by his family during his young adolescent years and today he is following the same path with his own daughter, Hailie. Even though he grew up in the “hood,” he was able to turn his life around by becoming one of the most wealthy rappers in the United States. As a child his family couldn’t even afford clothes, compared to his lifestyle today, Marshall doesn’t have to worry about paying rent each month, yet alone buying clothes; he has an average income of $31.8 million dollars a year. Even though Marshall Mathers had a difficult time getting started as a rapper, today he is one of the top artists to hit the top 100 list; along with winning several Grammy awards over the past ten years. At the beginning of his career, artists didn’t take him seriously and he was rejected by many other rappers. Today many artists grovel at his feet; he’s been able to completely turn the table around. By creating the persona Slim Shady, Marshall was able to overcome the neglect and poverty of his youth; he went from being a nobody to a world-famous, multi-millionaire rapper (Biography for Eminem).

1st point- Neglect
Then: moved around a lot as a child (Kansas City to Detroit). Took root in Detroit, Michigan in 1985. His family didn’t pay much attention to him or support him very well; on his own. His dad left his family and never came back. Switched schools every two to three months; it wasn’t easy making friends, staying out of trouble and couldn’t graduate high school. He failed the ninth grade three times. (his childhood was a “painful experience”)
Now: Due to his career, Marshall doesn’t have time for his daughter Hailie Jade Scott. (She’s experiencing what he had to go through as a child.)- Marshall’s career is more important than family.
(Biography for Eminem)

Marshal Mathers spent much of his childhood adapting to new neighborhoods every few months. His family moved back and forth between Kansas City and Detroit. In 1985, his family finally settled down in Detroit, Michigan. His father had never been in the picture; Mathers learned the basic ways of manhood on his own as well as independence. Because of quick transitions between schools it wasn’t easy making friends, staying out of trouble and trying to graduate high school was impossible. Mathers failed ninth grade three times before realizing school wasn’t for him by dropping out. His childhood was a “painful experience” because he was neglected as a child (Biography for Eminem).He never had a father figure in his life to admire; instead he had a mother who couldn’t decided where she wanted to spend her life. His mother wasn’t able to support him emotionally. This caused Mathers to have an unexplainable behavior and many other psychological problems. Mathers’ rapping persona mentions in one of his songs, Not Afraid, “his gift is a curse,” meaning that his fame and fortune that Shady has brought him has torn him from his family. Mathers continues to neglect his daughter, Hailie, just as he was neglected as a child. Ever since Hailie was born his career has been first priority in his life. It’s hard for a little girl to grow and mature without a father figure present in her life. Hailie might follow the same foot steps her father did as a struggling adolescent fighting for attention from her parents.

2nd point- Poverty
Then: grew up in poverty and in bad neighborhoods. (Eminem Biography)
Now: Billionaire-due to his career the past ten years.

Growing up in impoverished neighborhoods doesn't exactly describe a healthy and normal childhood; as for Marshall Mathers it was the basis to his life. His mom, Debbie Mathers-Briggs, faced many financial problems raising a family on her own without any support from her husband. Her financial status was the main reason for the continuous moving back and forth between cities. Debbie would find themselves living in trailors, mobile homes, living with relatives or public housing. During Mathers chilhood, his mom was under the influence of many drugs such as Vicodin and Valium (Eminem's Biography). Marshall's finanical status has risen since his early childhood. Within the past ten years Mathers has become one of the most famous rappers alive. Because of his success in the music industry, Mathers lives on the upscale of life. He's able to afford almost anything his heart disires.

3rd point- Early rapping career
Then: started rapping at the age of four years old (putting words together and rhyming), battled schoolmates in the lunchroom, people thought he was a joke and he was rejected by many other rappers. At the age of seventeen he made a new name for himself; M&M. Later he changed it to “Eminem.”
Now: sold 8 million records in the United States alone, won several Grammies and awards. 1st rap album to be nominated “Album of he year.”
(Biography for Eminem)
THEN: Rapped in clubs in Detroit and Michigan
Began working with Dr. Dre after he was present in the Freestyle category at the 1997 rap Olympics in Los Angeles.
1st album, Infinite, was crashed by many critics.
Joined ad hoc groups like Basement Production, the New Jacks and D12.
(Eminem Biography)

Works Cited

“Biography for Eminem.” The Internet Movie Database. Amazon.com, 2010. Web. 25 Sep 2010.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004896/bio.
“Eminem Biography.” Sing365.com, 2007. Web. 27 Sep 2010.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lync.nsf/eminem-biography/

The start to essay #2

Introduction and thesis-Slim Shady vs. Marshall Mathers:

Marshall Bruce Mathers III, also known as “Slim Shady,” is one of the most famous rappers in the music making world. His music is based on personal experiences he is facing or past events throughout his childhood. Marshall had a rocky experience as a child and he is still learning how to cope with his personal life problems. Marshall Mathers was neglected by his family during his young adolescent years and today he is following the same path with his own daughter, Hailie. Even though he grew up in the “hood,” he was able to turn his life around by becoming one of the most wealthy rappers in the United States. As a child his family couldn’t even afford clothes, compared to his lifestyle today, Marshall doesn’t have to worry about paying rent each month, yet alone buying clothes; he has an average income of $31.8 million dollars a year. Even though Marshall Mathers had a difficult time getting started as a rapper, today he is one of the top artists to hit the top 100 list, along with winning several Grammy awards over the past ten years. At the beginning of his career artists didn’t take him seriously and he was rejected by many other rappers. Today many artists grovel at his feet; he’s been able to completely turn the table around. By creating the persona Slim Shady, Marshall was able to overcome the neglect and poverty of his youth; he went from being a nobody to a world-famous, multi-millionaire rapper. 

1st point- Neglect

Then: moved around a lot as a child (Kansas City to Detroit), his family didn’t pay much attention to him or support him very well; on his own. His dad left his family and never came back. Switched schools every two to three months; it wasn’t easy making friends, staying out of trouble and couldn’t graduate high school. He failed the ninth grade three times. (his childhood was a “painful experience”)

Now: Due to his career, Marshall doesn’t have time for his daughter Hailie Jade Scott. (She’s experiencing what he had to go through as a child.)- Marshall’s career is more important than family.  

2nd point- Poverty

Then: grew up in poverty and in bad neighborhoods

Now: Billionaire-due to his career the past ten years. 

3rd point- Early rapping career 

Then: started rapping at the age of four years old (putting words together and rhyming), battled schoolmates in the lunchroom, people thought he was a joke and he was rejected by many other rappers. At the age of seventeen he made a new name for himself; M&M. Later he changed it to “Eminem.”

Now: sold 8 million records in the United States alone, won several Grammies and awards. 1st rap album to be nominated “Album of he year.” 

                                            

  Works Cited

"Biography for Eminem." The Internet Movie Database. Amazon.com, 2010. Web. 25 Sep 2010.
        http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004896/bio.

Demons

• What is a demon? A person, thing, reputation, etc? 
• Why do people use the word demon to describe something?
• Where did the word come from?
• In the 1800's did society refer to witches as demons? Why?
• Who used the word? Children? Adults? 
• Are demons be beautiful? OR Repulsive?

Essay #1 Revision: Almost done!!

What is Depression?

                  Perhaps the most misunderstood psychological disorder affecting Americans today is depression. This mental illness has been recorded throughout history and has  been portrayed in literature the past few hundreds of years. A depressive disorder affects the way someone eats, sleeps, the way they feel about themselves and what they think of other people/things. But it’s more than feeling sad or “having the blues.” According to Dr. Prentiss Price-Evans, an expert on depressive disorders, “Clinical depression is more than just feeling blue from time to time. It is a serious condition that a affects a person’s mind, body and spirit; it impacts every aspect of one’s life” (Prentiss). Psychologists like Dr. Prentiss, look at the first discoveries of depression and how it affected people throughout society. Throughout history people of all social classes, ethnic backgrounds etc. have experienced this “whole-body” illness. People with this illness suffer from different mental and physical symptoms everyday. Depression is a serious mental condition that has psychological and physical symptoms and is more prevalent in some populations.

                Depression is a “whole-body” illness that affects every aspect of someone’s life. This kind of depressive disorder is not the same as feeling blue and it’s not a sign of personal weakness that can be wished away. Someone suffering from this disorder cannot “pull themselves together” in a matter of time (Franklin). Many psychologists have studied parts of the brain that depression attacks. While 19th century depression was thought to be hereditary, Sigmund Freud, early 20th century psychologist and scientist, linked the development of depression to guilt and conflict. This medical illness is linked to the biochemistry in the brain. The Prefrontal Cortex is most affected by depression; it’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and positive reinforcement. However, this “emotional control centre” is completely inactive during the depressive stage (Dubuc). Without prefrontal cortex function, the brain is up against severe mental side effects and possible physical damage. 

           Understanding depression involves discussing the physiological changes throughout the decades as well as studying the mental and physical symptoms. Due to improper functioning of the  prefrontal cortex, people can feel lifeless and apathetic; lacking the motivation to partake in hobbies they once enjoyed (Depression). Psychologists find it more common that depressive disorder patients have continuous streams of negative thoughts brewing in the back of their minds. Other psychological symptoms include self-destructive thoughts, poor self-esteem and records show difficulty with short term memory (Franklin). However, common depression sufferers show physical symptoms as well as psychological problems. Frequently, depressive patients will suffer from a loss of sleep or too much rest. A severe change in appetite and unexplained aches/pains is normal from time to time. By recognizing the these symptoms right away someone with this illness can rescue their mind, body and spirit. 

• ONLY TWO MORE PARAGRAPHS TO GO!

Professor Revisions

Perhaps the most misunderstood psychological disorder affecting Americans today is depression.  This mental illness has been recorded throughout history and has been portrayed in literature the past few hundreds of years. A depressive disorder affects the way someone eats, sleeps, the way they feel about themselves and what they think of other people/things. But it’s more than just feeling sad or “having the blues.” According to…., and expert on depressive disorders, “Clinical depression is more than just feeling blue from time to time. It is a serious condition that affects a person’s mind, body and spirit; it impacts every aspect of one’s life” (What is Depression?)... Psychologists, like….., look at the first discoveries of depression and how it affected people throughout society. Throughout history people of all social classes and ethnic backgrounds etc. have experienced this “whole-body” illness. People with this illness suffer from different mental and physical symptoms every day. Depression is a serious mental condition that has psychological and physical symptoms and is more prevalent in some populations. 

Depression is a “whole-body” illness that affects every aspect of someone’s life. This kind of depressive disorder is not the same as feeling blue and it’s not a sign of personal weakness that can be wished away. Someone suffering from this disorder cannot “pull themselves together” in a matter of time (Franklin). Many psychologists have studied parts of the brain that depression attacks. While 19th century depression was thought to be hereditary, Sigmund Freud, early 20th century psychologist and scientist, linked the development of depression to guilt and conflict. This medical illness is linked to the biochemistry in the brain. The Prefrontal Cortex is most affected by depression; it’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and positive reinforcement. However, this “emotional control centre” is completely inactive during the depressive stage (Dubuc).

• Don't use quotes and try not to ask questions
• Put authors name when you're sighting your source
• Third point- Populations
• Understanding depression involves a discussion of pysiological changes symptoms and most common sufferers.

First two paragraphs down!!! (Revision of 1st essay)

  Many people ask themselves what is depression?; “Clinical depression is more than just feeling blue from time to time. It is a serious condition that a affects a person’s mind, body and spirit; it impacts every aspect of one’s life” (What is Depression?). A depressive disorder affects the way someone eats, sleeps, the way they feel about themselves and what they think of other people/things. This mental illness has been recorded throughout history and has  been portrayed in literature the past few hundreds of years. Psychologists look at the first discoveries of depression and how it affected people throughout society. Throughout history people of all social classes, ethnic backgrounds etc. have experienced this “whole-body” illness. People with this illness suffer from different mental and physical symptoms everyday. Depression is a serious mental condition that needs to be recognized as soon as diagnosed. 

   What comes to mind when someone ponders depression? Depression is a “whole-body” illness that affects every aspect of someone’s life. This kind of depressive disorder is not the same as feeling blue and it’s not a sign of personal weakness that can be wished away. Someone suffering from this disorder cannot “pull themselves together” in a matter of time (Franklin). Many psychologists have studied parts of the brain that depression attacks. While 19th century depression was thought to be hereditary, Sigmund Freud, early 20th century psychologist and scientist, linked the development of depression to guilt and conflict. This medical illness is linked to the biochemistry in the brain. The Prefrontal Cortex is most affected by depression; it’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and positive reinforcement. However, this “emotional control centre” is completely inactive during the depressive stage (Dubuc).

Depression Outline (New Draft)

Introduction & Thesis
Many people ask themselves what is depression?; “Clinical depression is more than just feeling blue from time to time. It is a serious condition that a affects a person’s mind, body and spirit; it impacts every aspect of one’s life” (What is Depression?). A depressive disorder affects the way someone eats, sleeps, the way they feel about themselves and what they think of other people/things. This mental illness has been recorded throughout history and has  been portrayed in literature the past few hundreds of years. Psychologists look at the first discoveries of depression and how it affected people throughout society. Throughout history people of all social classes, ethnic backgrounds etc. have experienced this “whole body” illness. People with this illness suffer from different mental and physical symptoms everyday. Depression is a serious mental condition that needs to be recognized as soon as diagnosed.
1st point- What is depression? Who came up with it? When?
“Depression is a "whole-body" illness, involving your body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better” (Franklin, Donald)
Medical illness linked to the changes to biochemistry of the brain

2nd point- Mental symptoms
Feel lifeless, apathetic and empty
Low concentration on easy tasks (now you find them difficult)
Decision making
Negative thoughts run through your head
You think life isn’t worth living-often commit suicide
Irritable and short-tempered
Loss of interest in hobbies and lack motivation
Self-loathing
(Understanding Depression)
Some people report difficulty with short term memory, forgetting things all the time. Negative thoughts and thinking are characteristic of depression. Pessimism, poor self-esteem, excessive guilt, and self-criticism are all common. Some people have self-destructive thoughts during a more serious depression. (Franklin, Donald)


3rd point- Physical symptoms
Suffer from a loss of sleep or too much
Unexplained aches and pains
Loss of energy
Lost appetite(weight loss)
(Understanding Depression)
Chronic Fatigue
Restless-can’t sit still
Insomia
(Franklin, Donald)

Conclusion

Christmas

   

• Where was Christmas first celebrated? and Why?

• Was Saint Nicholas the first person to try to be Santa?

• Did Santa ever exist? 

• Does the North Pole really exist?

• Why do parents lie to their kids about Santa?

• What's the most celebrated activity around Christmas time?

• Do Americans take Christmas for granted? 

Compare and Contrast Paper

I don't exactly have a general idea to write about for this essay. It's difficult to choose two topics within this song and compare/contrast them. If anyone has suggestions please let me know! I still have a lot of thinking to do before next class.

Depression (First Draft)

Fighting Teen Depression 

“Depression is very common and affects as many as 1 in 8 people in their teen years. Depression affects people of every color, race, economic status or age; however, it does seem to affect more girls than guys. “ (Depression--Why people get depressed?) Teenage depression is highly studied by psychologists and other medical professions to end this serious epidemic that results in numerous teen deaths every year. There are several reasons why teens suffer from depression; whether it be from parents divorce, the death of a family member/or loved one or a stressful home life. (Teens Health) Because of depression many teens respond negatively to the extra stress in their lives. It’s important that someone suffering from depression admits they have a problem and seeks help; utilizing their resources will lead to a positive step toward improving their mental health. Although, there are many causes of depression, it’s vital that teens suffering ask for help immediately in order to refrain from reacting irrationally.
“Depression is more than being moody/ It affects people at any age.” (Depression) Many teens get depressed after an intense ordeal such as a parents divorce, the death of a loved one, stressful home life, violence, peer pressure or break up with a boyfriend/girlfriend.(Depression--Why do people get depressed?) In a school environment teens are up against rumors that spread through the hallways. Gossiping about others and spreading of rumors can be hurtful for those who are being judged, ridiculed and humiliated. This makes students feel ostracized and isolated from their peers. At this age teens want to feel included and accepted by there peers. However, if they’re bullied or taunted these students can face other emotional traumas such as loneliness, anxiousness or despondency. These feelings will soon follow into their home life causing a stressful lifestyle outside of school. Unfortunately, this accelerates the stages leading into depression.
Often teens react much differently to the pain of depression; while many cause mischief at school or at home, others will experiment with alcohol, sex or drugs. Instead of asking for professional help, teens will try to “escape” or “medicate” themselves from their emotions; running away or putting yourself under the influence makes the pain disappear temporally. When teens get involved with drugs it may lead to serious substance abuse or obsessive compulsive disorders. Once teens start to overuse drugs it can impact the natural chemicals produced in the brain and causes severe damage to brain receptors; in turn makes the
road to recovery even more challenging. (Depression, Drugs and Alcohol) Although, teens may consider drugs, alcohol or sex to relieve their pain, choosing either of these options are unhealthy ways to react to their problems. Many cases show that some teens with this mental illness take their own lives or harm others around them. Teens need to understand the consequences to their actions by learning healthier way to deal with stress/depression. (“Teens Early Mental Disorder Detection”)
Myth, talking about depression makes things worse; false! Teens can’t warm up to their parents or any adult in general for several reasons (Depression--Why do people get depressed?); one, they believe adults “won’t understand” how they’re feeling, two, teenagers don’t want to fess up to anything they did wrong, or three, they don’t want to be judged by someone they love. It’s important that teens suffering from this mental illness stay connected to both friends and family. If they’re not comfortable with telling a counselor or therapist, than express their feelings to someone they trust. Talking to a friend can be beneficial for them and it allows their friends/family to become aware of their condition. Friends and family are always here to assist the people they care about. It’s imperative that teens with depression stay social and active with extracurricular activities. The last thing they should do is isolate themselves from society altogether; doing so will speed up the depression process. While getting involved with extra social groups, make sure depressed teens avoid people who abuse drugs, alcohol or cause trouble. This king of behavior can influence further mental breakdowns and other psychological problems. In addition to encouraging them to be open and honest about the situation, it’s to make certain that they understand they’re not alone! There are numerous people including psychologists, doctors, therapists, teachers, counselors, that are here to make the upcoming generation fully functional and healthy. (“Dealing with Depression”) There are a variety of routes an individual with depression can follow, however, the most important  is to choose a path and not end up at a dead end.
“Clinical depression is more than just feeling blue from time to time. It is a serious condition that a affects a person’s mind, body and spirit; it impacts every aspect of one’s life.” (What is Depression?) Even though a school environment can be stressful, try to avoid people who have negative attitudes on a daily basis and spend time with people who you share the same interests/goals as you. Through the teenage years it’s hard not to be influenced by your peers, however, lead by example and stay away from peer pressure.
Teens will often give into peer pressure (drugs, sex or alcohol) if they’re dealing with depression because they want a depressant to make them feel better. In this case, it’s up to the parents to reassure their depressed teens in order to make them feel supported and comforted by their families. Reaching out for help and talking to a therapist about psychological problems is a big step for teens; it’ll take time for them to open up, so don’t rush them. Depressed teens have a responsibility to choose a direction that will cure their subconscious problems.

Salary

• Where did salary originate?
• Do many people in the United States get a yearly salary or paid by the hour?
• Do people make more money getting a salary?
• What's minimum wage?
• Why does the United States have a salary?

   Salary originated from the Latin word that referred to an 'allowance' given to Roman soldiers for buying salt. ( 'Salarium,' a derivative of sal, 'salt.') Salt was a valued and important commodity throughout this time period, which is one of the reasons why wars were fought, instead of being taken for granted as it is today. It broadened out to mean 'fixed periodic payment for work done,' and it passed into the Anglo-Norman period, however, it made its way into English-"salarie." 

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_language_does_the_word_salary_come_from




Each states in the United States have passed several federal laws increasing minimum wage, however, today minimum wage still varies. 

Here are only a few states:

Alaska: $7.75-In 2009, a state law was passed to keep the state minimum wage 50 cents above the federal level.

Arizona: $7.25

California: $8.00-The Minimum Wage Ordinance states that exempt employees must make twice the state minimum wage.

Colorado: $7.25-Set to increase or decrease according to yearly changes in inflation; tipped employees earn $4.22 per hour.

Florida: $7.25-$4.23 per hour for tipped employees. 

Maryland: $7.25- Tipped employees earn $3.63.

Ohio: $7.30-$7.25 for 14 & 15 year-olds and employees whose employers gross less than $267,000 yearly. This rate is automatically adjusted on January 1st based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index. $3.65 plus tips for tipped employees;however, it'll remain $7.30 for 2010.

Texas: $7.25-Federal minimum wage used as reference; no actual amounts written in law.

Minimum wage in the United States originated from the Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938. Since then, minimum wage has increased exponentially, originally starting at $0.25 per hour.