If I'd known you
then
like I know you now,
I'd
of hidden your keys
and
dumped all the alcohol
out.
If
I'd known you then
like
I know you now I'd
keep
all my secrets to
myself
Keep them locked
up
tight under my belt.
If I'd known you then
like
I know you now,
I'd
have studied a law
book harder
So I could run from
you farther.
If
I'd have known you
then
like I know you now
I
wouldn't have spent
so
much time crying over
lost time.
I'd certainly say:
I turned out fine.
The Window Watcher.
+++++++++++++
I wonder
if
you know
I sit on
a
window seat in
a
house
on
my street..
Staring on past
the
Canadian geese
swimming
in
the pond.
(the last thing
that
connects
my life to yours.)
Although
your
Soul has
repulsed me,
I'm
thankful
that
I
got to
see what
it was,
and that
I
didn't
have to endure
15
years worth
of
you
polluting
mine,
like the
city
pollutes
A
pond.
*
I watch now
as
the towns-people
feed
the water fowls
bread,
and
they duck their
beaks
into the water
until
there's
only crumbs
left..
Crumbs
like the bits
of
attention
you'd show
to me..
only to ride
off,
high upon
hearing
of
the horror
that
my life was.
(Only true
evil
enjoys seeing
human
beings in pain.)
-Jade Katherine-
Title: The Breakdown of Communication and Its Effects on Literacy in American Society
Introduction:
Effective communication is the cornerstone of a thriving society, fostering connections, understanding, and growth. Unfortunately, in American society, the breakdown of communication has become a significant concern, with far-reaching consequences for literacy. This essay aims to explore the effects of communication breakdown on literacy in American society, highlighting key aspects and potential solutions.
Body:
1. Technological Advancements and Their Impact:
In an era of rapid technological advancements, communication has evolved significantly. While the digital age has brought numerous benefits, it has also contributed to a breakdown in meaningful communication. The prevalence of abbreviated text messages, social media platforms, and digital distractions has led to a decline in traditional literacy skills, such as reading comprehension, critical thinking, and effective writing.
2. Diminished Verbal Communication Skills:
The rise of digital communication has led to a decline in face-to-face conversations. As individuals rely more on text-based interactions, they lose opportunities to develop and practice essential verbal communication skills. This can result in difficulties expressing oneself effectively, limited vocabulary, weak listening abilities, and reduced comprehension of spoken language.
3. Shortened Attention Spans:
In an age of information overload, individuals are constantly bombarded with stimuli competing for their attention. This constant distraction has led to shortened attention spans, making it challenging for individuals to engage in deep reading and sustained focus. As a result, the ability to comprehend complex texts and engage with nuanced ideas is compromised, impacting overall literacy levels.
4. Misinformation and Critical Thinking:
The breakdown of communication has also facilitated the spread of misinformation. With the ease of sharing information online, false or misleading content can quickly gain traction, eroding trust in reliable sources. This proliferation of misinformation hampers critical thinking skills, as individuals struggle to discern fact from fiction. Without strong critical thinking abilities, literacy suffers, as individuals are unable to analyze and evaluate information effectively.
5. Solutions and Mitigation Strategies:
Addressing the breakdown of communication and its effects on literacy requires a multifaceted approach. Here are a few potential solutions:
a. Promoting Media Literacy: Educating individuals on how to critically evaluate and analyze information from various sources can help strengthen their literacy skills.
b. Encouraging Face-to-Face Communication: Fostering environments where face-to-face communication is valued can improve verbal communication skills and enhance comprehension.
c. Balancing Digital and Traditional Literacy: Emphasizing the importance of both digital literacy and traditional literacy can help individuals navigate the digital landscape while maintaining strong foundational literacy skills.
Conclusion:
The breakdown of communication in American society has had significant repercussions on literacy levels. Technological advancements, diminished verbal communication skills, shortened attention spans, and the spread of misinformation all contribute to this issue. However, by promoting media literacy, encouraging face-to-face communication, and balancing digital and traditional literacy, society can mitigate the adverse effects and work towards a more literate future. It is crucial to recognize the importance of effective communication and make concerted efforts to address the challenges posed by the modern era.
