Know the language
Dear Dr English,
We discussed symbolism and motifs in class, but I'm still not clear about their meaning and use. What is symbolism? Why is it used? What are motifs? What are their functions?
Inderjeet Singh
Symbolism is the representation of something in a symbolic form; or in other words, the use of symbols, such as colours, mythical creatures or animals to represent something.
For example, you may be familiar with Scar, the jealous lion and uncle of Simba, in the ÒLion KingÓ. Scar wants to get rid of Mufasa, the Lion King, and prince Simba, so he can seize the throne. His eyes glow green with envy every time he feels jealous.
If you want to know more about symbolism, you can read Rukhsana KhanÕs article on the subject on the website, http://www.rukhsanakhan.com/article-symbolism.htm. She is an award-winning author of many children's books.
Motifs are themes or ideas that are repeated and developed in a work of music or literature. One of the best-known motifs is the two-tone cello music from ÒJawsÓ. Every time you hear it, the shark appears. In Charles DickensÕ ÒA Tale of Two CitiesÓ, there is an allusion to Madame DefargeÕs knitting whenever someone is sent to the guillotine.
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Meal times
Dear Dr English,
What is the difference between ÒsupperÓ and ÒdinnerÓ?
Christine Chou
Earlier, in Western countries, people used to have more than three meals a day.
After lunch, they would have tea, - cucumber sandwiches coming with the beverage - usually around 4pm or 5pm. Around 6pm, dinner, a light meal, was served. Late into the night came supper, the big and last meal of the day.
Today, supper is rarely eaten. Dinner is usually the last meal of the day.
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What is syntax error?
Dear Dr English,
I would like to know what a syntax error is.
Jasleen Kaur
Syntax is a linguistic concept. Syntax is the way words are combined to form phrases or sentences. It is commonly defined as a set of rules, which ensures correctness when followed. A syntax error occurs when someone says something that makes no sense or is so vague that the meaning is lost.
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