Punctuation INSIDE the Quotation Marks

 If punctuation were logical, we wouldn’t have a mark in book publishing that is nonexistent in news media, the en dash. If punctuation were logical, we wouldn’t use quotation marks to set off “words as words” like “fella” anyway. Some other symbol would do that job.

If punctuation were logical, you wouldn’t see “healthcare laws” in one publication and “health-care laws” in another with both being correct. And we certainly wouldn’t have a system in which “the dog’s” could be either a contraction or a possessive.

Punctuation began as a system of printers’ marks. The idea: to help visually arrange information and guide the eye to where it needs to go. The printers and publishers who shaped the rules here in America believed that a period or comma after a closing quotation mark looked bad. So they decided it should stay inside, logic be blasted.

And yes, aesthetics are important. The visuals of a written work should never get in the way of the message. “Ugly” may be subjective; the goal of ensuring that a written work flows visually should be universal.

Whenever I mention the rules about periods and commas with quotation marks, people argue. But to me, that’s a testament to this system. Why? Because the folks who write to me to argue for a more “logical” system all read newspapers. They probably read books too.

This means that they have, countless times, seen commas and periods inside of quotation marks regardless of meaning or logic. Yet this system is so visually unobtrusive that my correspondents never noticed that it’s standard. That’s a good thing.

I’m certain, however, that this system is doomed. In an age where almost everyone’s a writer and a self-publisher, people guess at how to punctuate terms in quotation marks. Naturally, no one guesses that punctuation rules might not be logical.

But until the current rules die, here they are: In the U.S., a period or comma always comes before a closing quotation mark. It doesn’t matter if the quotation marks indicate a direct quotation, a “word as word” or, as is done in some publishing styles, a movie, TV show or song title.

Question marks and exclamation points follow a different rule. They actually are logical: An exclamation point or question mark could come before or after a closing quotation mark, depending on whether it pertains to the whole quotation (Did you notice how often Betty used the word “freedom”?) or just the quoted matter (Alfred E. Neuman’s catchphrase is “What, me worry?”).

These rules don’t apply outside the U.S. In Britain, for example, forms like “fella”. This is correct, as logic dictates. But here in the U.S of A., for the time being, that’s always a mistake.

JUNE CASAGRANDE is the author of “It Was the Best of Sentences, It Was the Worst of Sentences.” She can be reached at JuneTCN@aol.com.

We Are the World

We Are the World was released in 1985 as part of a major humanitarian effort to address the famine in Ethiopia. It played a crucial role in the 1985 famine relief efforts by raising significant funds and awareness. At the same time, We Are the World exemplified how artists can come together to impact social movements positively.

The legacy of We Are the World continues to inspire humanitarian efforts within the music community and beyond.

INTRODUCTION (easy as A B C) A) Be sure to begin with a great hook sentence.

B) Your introduction should contain historical context.

C) Be sure to include a clear thesis sentence leading your reader into your three body paragraphs.

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4 Points of Historical Context & Setting:

Here are four points of historical context and setting pertinent to the song.

1. Ethiopian Famine: 

In the early to mid-1980s, Ethiopia faced a devastating famine caused by drought, civil conflict, and other contributing factors. Millions of people were affected, leading to widespread suffering and death.

2. Live Aid Initiative:

The song was conceived as part of the Live Aid initiative, organized by musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure. The goal was to raise funds and awareness for famine relief in Ethiopia and other regions suffering from poverty and hunger.

3. Gathering of Artists:
In January 1985, a group of 45 prominent artists came together in Los Angeles to record "We Are the World." The collaboration featured numerous well-known musicians from various genres, demonstrating a united front for a global cause.

4. Release and Impact:

The single was released on March 7, 1985, and it quickly became a massive commercial success. It raised over $60 million for famine relief, directly funding food, medical assistance, and other resources to help those affected.

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3 BODY PARAGRAPHS

In your opinion, what are the most important key themes, emotions, and messages of "We Are the World"? You might want to also consider which ones ones are needed today.

4 Key Themes:

1. Unity and Global Responsibility:

The song emphasizes the idea that the world is interconnected and that individuals must come together to tackle global challenges. It calls for a collective effort to help one another, regardless of nationality.

2. Compassion and Humanitarianism:

The lyrics highlight the importance of compassion and caring for those in need, particularly in times of crisis, such as famine or disaster. It encourages listeners to respond to suffering with empathy.

3. Hope and Empowerment:

There is a strong underlying message of hope, suggesting that positive change is possible when people work together. The lyrics empower individuals to believe that they can make a difference.

4. Charity and Altruism:

The song calls for tangible actions, urging listeners to contribute to charitable causes and support those who are less fortunate.

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7 Key Emotions:

1. Empathy:

The lyrics evoke a strong sense of empathy for those suffering from poverty, hunger, and disaster. The call to recognize and share in the struggles of others encourages listeners to feel connected to the plight of those in need.

2. Urgency:

There is an underlying sense of urgency throughout the song, urging immediate action in response to global crises. This emotion compels individuals to realize the significance of coming together and making a difference without delay.

3. Hope:

Despite the themes of suffering, the song carries a hopeful message that change is possible when people unite for a common cause. It inspires a belief that collective efforts can lead to a better future.

    

4. Compassion:

The overall tone emphasizes compassion and kindness, encouraging listeners to act selflessly and lend their support to those facing hardships. This feeling is central to the song's call to action.

5. Inspiration:

The collaboration of various artists creates an uplifting sense of inspiration, motivating individuals to contribute positively to their communities and the world at large. The message is one of empowerment, showing that everyone can play a role.

 

6. Solidarity:

The repeated emphasis on "we" fosters a sense of solidarity among people globally, reinforcing the idea that everyone is part of a larger human family. This feeling of togetherness is vital in promoting collective responsibility.

7. Sorrow:

There is an inherent sorrow expressed for those affected by crises, highlighting the weight of suffering in the world. This emotion serves as a catalyst for the call to action, emphasizing the need to alleviate pain and hardship.

Overall, these emotions work together to create a powerful message that resonates with listeners, encouraging them to reflect on their role in creating a compassionate and supportive global community.

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Key Messages:

1. Collective Action: 

The refrain "We are the world, we are the children" promotes the idea that all of humanity must come together to effect change, reinforcing the notion of shared responsibility.

2. Empowerment Through Action:

The lyrics encourage individuals to take action, demonstrating that each person can play a vital role in making a difference, regardless of how small their contribution may seem.

3. Awareness of Global Issues:

The song serves as a reminder of the various social issues that exist around the world, urging listeners to be aware of and responsive to these challenges.

4. Hope for Change:

Ultimately, the message is one of hope—that through unity and compassion, humanity can overcome obstacles and create a more just and caring world.

By breaking down the lyrics, it becomes clear that “We Are the World” is more than just a song; it is a powerful call to awareness, collaboration, and positive action toward creating a better future for all.

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Conclusion

Summarize Key Points:

Briefly restate the main points you've covered in your essay (key themes, emotions, and messages).

Connect to the Present:

Mention how the themes of the song are still relevant today. You might reference current global issues or movements that align with its message.
*see Roles of Artists in Social Movements - below for ideas

Call to Action (optional):

Encourage your readers to think about how they can contribute to positive change. This could be through volunteering, raising awareness, or participating in charitable activities.

End with a Strong Statement:

Finish with a memorable quote or a thought-provoking question that leaves readers reflecting on the message of the song and its relevance. Remember TT/CC

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Role of Artists in Social Movements:

1. Raising Awareness: 

Artists used their platform to raise awareness about global issues, effectively leveraging their celebrity status to draw attention to the situation in Ethiopia and similar crises.

2. Mobilization:
The collective effort of the artists exemplified how music can mobilize and inspire action among the public. Their collaboration demonstrated solidarity and showcased the power of collective action in addressing humanitarian crises.

3. Cultural Influence:
"We Are the World" exemplified the growing trend of artists engaging in social and political issues. It set a precedent for future musical collaborations aimed at philanthropic causes, influencing other artists and initiatives around the world.

4. Legacy of Philanthropy in Music:

The success of "We Are the World" and Live Aid paved the way for similar initiatives that reinforced the idea that musicians can actively contribute to social change beyond their music.

"We Are the World" played a crucial role in the 1985 famine relief efforts by raising significant funds and awareness while exemplifying how artists can come together to impact social movements positively. Its legacy continues to inspire humanitarian efforts within the music community and beyond.

LAGNIAPPE
Thirty-nine years ago, the biggest music stars in the world crammed into a recording studio in Los Angeles for an all-night session that they hoped might alter music history. It is still known as “The Greatest Night in Pop."

“We Are the World” was a 1985 charity single for African famine relief that included the voices of Michael Jackson, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Paul Simon, Tina Turner, Dionne Warwick, Lionel Richie, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen.

“It (was) a celebration of the power of creativity and the power of collective humanity,” says producer Julia Nottingham. “The amazing thing about the song is it’s such an inspiration for so many artists.”

There is a documentary that has recently been released that highlights wonderful behind the scenes moments.

Here are some special tidbits from the documentary:

There was a moment when the 40-plus superstars are asked to groove from their knees and stop pounding their feet on the risers, which was throwing off the sound. 

Producer Quincy Jones tried to head off any hubris by taping up a sign: “Check Your Ego at the Door.”

In an interview with the AP at the Sundance Film Festival, Lionel Richie recalled that having Ray Charles there was helpful, since he was revered. The presence of Bob Dylan also helped neutralize any griping.

“We got the right players to come in. And then once we realized we were trying to save people’s lives, then it’s not about us anymore,” Richie said. "But to deliver that in one night? An impossibility.”

The documentary anchors the effort in the activism of Harry Belafonte, who had raised the alarm about famine in Ethiopia, and having him in the studio singing “We Are the World” was poignant.

The group — exhausted and giddy in the wee hours — also serenaded the legend with a spontaneous version of Belafonte's “Banana Boat,” with the lyrics “Daylight come and we want to go home.”

It is revealed that Loggins suggested that Huey Lewis replace Prince in the solos, right after Jackson. No pressure, right? “It was just one line, but my legs were literally shaking,” Lewis recalls in the movie.

The song co-writers Jackson and Richie were still working on it 10 days before the recording session on Jan. 28, 1985. Once in the studio, footage captures superstars — no assistants allowed — nervously hugging. “It was like first day at Kindergarten,” Richie says.

The decision to pick that particular night to record the single was made in order to piggy-back off the influx of music royalty attending the American Music Awards, hosted by Richie, who performed twice and won six awards. The cream of the cream then made their way to the all-night recording session at A&M Studios.

Lauper, who dazzled everyone with her vocal prowess, was almost a no-show. Her boyfriend counseled her to skip the recording because he thought the single wouldn't be a hit. But Richie told her: “It’s pretty important for you to make the right decision. Don’t miss the session tonight."

Nottingham, the documentary producer, isn't sure such a similar recording session with music superstars could ever happen these days, especially with ever-present social media and armies of assistants.

“It was very ahead of its time in terms of it being the '80s and technology. But I would hope it would serve as an inspiration for other artists to keep trying and do these things for great causes.”

source: https://www.mprnews.org/story/2024/01/31/we-are-the-world-goes-deep-inside-recording-session-of-starry-1985

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THISTLE Class KWO Butterfly Example

KWO rules 

1  Handwrite your KWO

2  Write the complete title  

3  Number the SENTENCES. 

4 Three words maximum per sentence

5  Numbers, symbols, and abbreviations – as many as you want  (do not go crazy!)    

 

Zero Waste Lifestyle (Lauren Singer) TedED

 Zero Waste Lifestyle

Lauren Singer

Consider these important questions in order to find the most important points.

What did Lauren do to make the transition to zero waste easier?

1) She stopped buying packaged food.

2) She started making many of her own products.

3) She started shopping second-hand.

4) She downsized

What are the benefits of living a zero waste lifestyle?

1) saves money

2) eat better (healthier) and feel better

3) happier 

What recommendations does Lauren offer to help people reduce the trash they produce?

1) look at your trash and understand where it comes from

2) do little things (over time they make a positive large-scale difference)

3) DIY (do it yourself) - learn to make products yourself

Start with something like this:

  (2) In class we watched a TedED video called, Zero Waste Lifestyle. The speaker, who was named Lauren Singer, explained her unique lifestyle and why she thought it was important to share. (6) It was truly fascinating!

If you need help picking a quote, here are some memorable ones:

"Zero waste for me means I don't make any trash."

"If I was going to move away from plastic, the only way that I was going to be able to do that was to learn how to make my products myself."

"The idea that I didn't have to produce any trash, was so empowering, and so inspiring!"

"The benefits of living this lifestyle far outweigh any of the negatives that you can imagine."

"I'm living in direct alignment with my values."

"I want to be remembered for the things that I did while I was on this planet . . and not for the trash I left behind."