This encounter with Geary was a lot more personal and thought provoking than when I watched his talk. The first time, I understood what he said, but only thought about the surface of what he was saying. Some of the details went in one ear, and out the other. Taking my time, annotating the piece drew me more of my attention towards his words. The major difference between the two was with the study of the hypothetic crisis. I didn’t even remember that a group of students were told that a country had been invaded and needed to come up with a solution. I heard about the World War II and Vietnam exposures, however I didn’t understand what he was talking about. After closely reading the transcript, I can comprehend that it was the metaphors that lead to reactions from the students.
Additionally, in the transcript I was able to further connect with his Ralph Waldo Emerson quote of “fossil poetry”. At first, I was confused, because metaphors are not old, but rather new, creative forms of speaking. After further contemplation, I realized that words themselves are old, it is what we do with them that is revolutionary. It is similar to the show Barnwood Builders. They take old logs from houses and completely rebuilt gorgeous homes with the ancient wood. This is when my conversation with Geary was the most meaningful, because though annotating I was able to fully understand the point of him mentioning Emerson and fossil metaphors.
Emily,
It was a pleasure to learn more about you via your “About Me” page. Your photography is beautiful, and I appreciate your fondness for DIY. I’m so impressed by that clock!
I was struck by your use of the adjective “personal” when comparing/contrasting your experiences with Geary. It makes complete sense that your annotations would help personalize your experience, I’ve just never heard it put quite that way. Thank you for the gift!
This passage just blew me away: ” Additionally, in the transcript I was able to further connect with his Ralph Waldo Emerson quote of “fossil poetry”. At first, I was confused, because metaphors are not old, but rather new, creative forms of speaking. After further contemplation, I realized that words themselves are old, it is what we do with them that is revolutionary. It is similar to the show Barnwood Builders. They take old logs from houses and completely rebuilt gorgeous homes with the ancient wood.”
You took your initial confusion, engaged it, and came out with something amazing! Your insight re: Barnwood Builders is innovative and right on. Well done!