Eddy Jackson MBE

Book cover

Social Media's Role in Reimagining Pride and Prejudice.

Day and McGowan’s adaptation offers a fresh take on "Pride and Prejudice," exploring contemporary themes and issues. Though it may not resonate with all readers, its critical examination of social media's role in shaping relationships and perceptions makes it a compelling addition to literary adaptations. The innovative use of social media reimagines a classic for the digital age.

Exploration of social media as a Narrative Device:

Day and McGowan skilfully integrate social media into the "Pride and Prejudice" storyline, reimagining characters such as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in the digital age. Using platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, the authors create a parallel world where communication, love interests, and conflicts are all played out in the realm of social media. This approach adds a layer of immediacy and relevance to the timeless tale, allowing readers to connect with the characters in a more contemporary context.

Examining the Themes and Issues Explored:

The novel address’s identity, communication, and societal expectations through social media. Elizabeth is portrayed as a feminist blogger challenging traditional gender roles, while Mr. Darcy is a mysterious influencer. The authors highlight how the pressure to curate a perfect online image leads to misunderstandings, mirroring the novel's central theme of pride and prejudice.

Critique of the Authors' Approach:

While the digital update is innovative, some readers may find the constant social media references distracting. The fast-paced nature of online interactions can overshadow the emotional depth of characters and relationships, making their struggles and growth less nuanced. Reliance on social media as a narrative device might alienate readers unfamiliar with these platforms.

Day and McGowan successfully updated Austen's novel for the digital age, some readers may find the constant references to social media distracting or contrived. The fast-paced nature of online interactions can sometimes overshadow the characters' emotional depth and relationships, leading to a less nuanced portrayal of their struggles and growth. Additionally, relying on social media platforms as a primary narrative device may alienate readers who are less familiar with these technologies.

Conclusion:

Day and McGowan’s adaptation offers a fresh take on "Pride and Prejudice," exploring contemporary themes and issues. Though it may not resonate with all readers, its critical examination of social media's role in shaping relationships and perceptions makes it a compelling addition to literary adaptations. The innovative use of social media reimagines a classic for the digital age.

This contemporary adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice" offers a fresh perspective on the timeless story, shedding light on how social media shapes our relationships and perceptions. While the novel may not resonate with all readers, its exploration of contemporary themes and issues makes it a compelling and relevant addition to literary adaptations. By critically examining the use of social media as a narrative device, we can appreciate the authors' innovative approach to reimagining a classic work for the digital age.

DROVER DOGS

Dogs play a crucial role in droving, which involves herding and moving livestock over long distances.

Here are some key roles and tasks that drover dogs typically perform:

Herding:

Drover dogs are trained to gather and move livestock, such as cattle or sheep, from one place to another. They use their natural herding instincts to keep the animals together and guide them in the desired direction.

Guarding:

These dogs also help protect the livestock from predators and other threats. Their presence can deter potential dangers and keep the herd safe.

Driving:

Drover dogs assist in driving the livestock forward, ensuring they stay on the correct path. They often work alongside human drovers to manage the movement of the herd efficiently.

Here is a detailed insight into the drover nomads from rural histories.

Sorting:

In some cases, drover dogs help sort animals, separating them based on specific criteria such as age, size, or health. This is particularly useful during market preparations or veterinary checks.

Communication:

These dogs respond to commands from their handlers, often through whistles, voice commands, or hand signals. Effective communication between the dog and the handler is essential for successful droving.


Breeds commonly used for droving include Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, and Kelpies, known for their intelligence, agility, and strong herding instincts.

The word “drover” has its origins in the early 15th century, though it appeared as a surname as early as the late 13th century. It comes from the word “drove,” which means a herd, especially of cattle.

The term “drove” itself originates from the Old English word “draf,” meaning beasts driven in a body or a road along which cattle are driven. This, in turn, comes from the verb “drifan,” which means to drive.

So, a drover is essentially someone who drives cattle or sheep to market. It’s fascinating how the word has maintained its connection to driving livestock over centuries!

Book

Check out Michael Morpugo’s new book Cobweb - a fascinating history story about a drover dog.

Workplace Dictatorships How Employers Rule

Here is a topical event. It sounds like the place where you work.

Deep within the bustling city, a young woman named Emily was trapped in a peculiar situation. She worked diligently in a large corporation that promised freedom and equality, but it operated like an authoritarian private dictatorship beneath the surface. This revelation shook Emily to her core, leading her on a journey of introspection and discovery.

Here is a topical event. It sounds like the place where you work.

Deep within the bustling city, a young woman named Emily was trapped in a peculiar situation. She worked diligently in a large corporation that promised freedom and equality, but it operated like an authoritarian private dictatorship beneath the surface. This revelation shook Emily to her core, leading her on a journey of introspection and discovery.

Emily had always believed in the ideals of fairness and justice, and the disparity between what was promised and what was happening in her workplace troubled her greatly. Did this totalitarian and authoritarian rule reflect the features of fascist governments?

As she delved deeper into Elizabeth Anderson's insightful book, "Private Government: How Employers Rule Our Lives (and Why We Don’t Talk about It)", she felt a spark ignite within her, urging her to co.

Armed with newfound knowledge and a sense of purpose, Emily began to observe the intricacies of governance in her workplace with fresh eyes. She noticed how power dynamics played out daily, how authority was wielded without accountability, and how the language of markets obscured the inequalities present in the firm.

As she navigated through the maze of cubicles and conference rooms, Emily felt a sense of urgency to change. She realized that she was not alone in her struggle and that many colleagues also yearned for a more just and balanced work environment.

Drawing inspiration from Anderson's concept of 'private governments,' Emily initiated conversations with her coworkers, raising awareness about the coercive nature of their workplace. Together, they started to question entrenched hierarchies and sought ways to amplify the workers' voices in decision-making processes.

Despite resistance and pushback from those in power, Emily refused to back down. She organized peaceful protests, circulated petitions, and engaged in constructive dialogue with management to advocate for a more democratic and inclusive workplace.

Through her unwavering determination and courage, Emily became a beacon of hope for her fellow workers. Her actions sparked a movement within the company, leading to a shift in organisational culture and increased transparency in decision-making.

As the walls of authority began to crumble, Emily realised that she had the power to effect change within her workplace and society at large. She understood that by challenging the norms of private governments and advocating for a more equitable system, she could pave the way for a brighter and fairer future for all.

And so, amidst the chaos and challenges, Emily stood tall as a symbol of resilience and empowerment, inspiring others to stand up for their rights and strive for a world where true freedom and equality reigned supreme.

English graduates and new AI job opportunities

English graduates have many opportunities to benefit from artificial intelligence (AI) in their careers as technology continues to shape the workforce. The integration of AI in various industries presents English graduates with new avenues for professional growth and development.

One key area where English graduates can benefit from AI is in content creation and curation. AI tools, such as natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, can assist in analysing data, generating insights, and creating compelling content. For example, AI can help writers generate new story ideas, analyse trends in online content, and tailor their writing to specific audiences. English graduates who possess strong writing skills can leverage AI tools to streamline their workflow, increase productivity, and produce high-quality content more efficiently.

Moreover, AI can also aid English graduates in editing and proofreading their work. Advanced grammar and spell-checking algorithms can assist in detecting errors and suggesting improvements in writing. This can help English graduates refine their writing skills, communicate more effectively, and enhance the overall quality of their work.

Additionally, AI-powered platforms can provide English graduates with opportunities in content marketing and search engine optimization (SEO). AI tools can analyse data to identify trends, predict consumer behaviour, and optimize content for search engines. English graduates who understand how to leverage AI in content marketing can create targeted campaigns, drive traffic to websites, and enhance brand visibility.

Furthermore, AI can enable English graduates to explore careers in technical writing and documentation. AI-powered software can assist in creating user manuals, technical guides, and documentation for various products and services. English graduates can utilize AI tools to simplify complex information, enhance readability, and ensure accuracy in technical documentation.

In conclusion, English graduates stand to benefit greatly from AI in their careers. By embracing AI technologies and developing new skills, they can enhance their writing abilities, streamline their workflow, and explore diverse opportunities in content creation, editing, marketing, and technical writing. As AI continues to revolutionize the workplace, English graduates who adapt and leverage technology effectively will remain competitive and thrive in the ever-evolving job market.

Graduates benefitting from new AI career opportunities

English graduates can benefit from AI in various career aspects, as it opens up new opportunities and enhances existing skills. Here are some ways AI can be advantageous:

• Content Creation: AI can assist in crafting compelling content, providing tools for grammar and syntax enhancement, and style assistance to refine the writer’s voice¹.
• Literature Analysis: AI can analyse vast volumes of literature, helping English graduates in research and interpretation tasks¹.
• Job Market Analysis: AI tools can provide insights into job market trends, guiding English graduates towards in-demand career paths².
• Skill Development: AI-powered platforms can recommend skill development opportunities, aligning graduates’ skills with industry demands³.
• Writing Assistance: AI-driven grammar and style checkers can improve writing skills, making English graduates more competitive in the job market².
• Career Pathways: AI opens up new career paths at the intersection of technology and humanities, encouraging innovative collaborations¹.

Moreover, AI can optimize the job search and application process, with tools that aggregate job listings, analyse resumes, and generate cover letters tailored for specific roles⁴.

This integration of AI into various facets of career development allows English graduates to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The book and rise of digital media - Books versus ebooks - What is the future?

What role and function has Apple’s iPhone played in a world where digital technology reigns supreme? Has the printed book has proven its resilience in the face of the digital era? Once thought to be on the brink of extinction due to the rise of e-books and e-readers, traditional books have not only survived but also found new ways to flourish alongside their digital counterparts.

The battle of printed Books vs. E-Books has been fierce, with printed book sales experiencing a decline as digital media continues to soar. However, this decline rate is slowing down, suggesting that printed books are finding their footing in the new landscape. E-reader sales, once booming, have plateaued in recent years, with major players like Amazon's Kindle and Barnes & Noble's Nook facing challenges. Despite the allure of e-books, print books still dominate the market in the UK, with significant amounts spent on them compared to e-books. Additionally, genre preferences play a role, with adult fiction favouring e-books while cookery and religious books thrive in print.

The printed book showcases its resilience through the book’s many Lives. Unlike e-books, printed books can circulate actively, being loaned, gifted, or sold second-hand, allowing them to have multiple lives. With its craftsmanship, bindings, and illustrations, the tangible pleasure of holding a physical book in hand evokes sensorial pleasure, memories, and nostalgia that digital copies cannot replicate. Even when battered or recycled, the paper itself retains value, extending the life of the book.

Digital media and online conversations using mobile technologies have also played a role in preserving the printed book's relevance. Innovations like personalised books create a bridge between physical and digital realms, providing unique experiences for readers. Furthermore, digital conversations, such as reviews, blogs, and social media discussions, bring books to life collaboratively, enriching the reading experience and keeping them a part of cultural discourse. My iPhone 15 Pro Max has worked overtime on this agenda.

In conclusion, while digital media has undoubtedly transformed the way we consume content, the printed book stands as a testament to endurance. Its materiality, ability to circulate and evoke memories, and capability to adapt to new technologies ensure that it remains a cherished part of our cultural heritage. The printed book has weathered the storm of the digital era and emerged stronger, proving that it is here to stay.

Verse 1)
Surging waves and cool wind, the sailor's true friend
Black markings telling direction, guiding us until the end

Submerged rocks, silent danger lurking below
Navigating shallow channels, rocky headlands we go

A Border Terrier's first sailing trip on the West Coast of Scotland

(

Chorus)
Big tides, fast currents, the sea's relentless dance
Swirling overfalls and steep cliffs, taking every chance

(Verse 2)
Hidden coves and flashing transits, the sailor's delight
Prominent marks and bright screens, leading us through the night

Chart plotter guiding our way, sandy estuaries in sight
Harbour cill and wooden pontoon, a safe harbor in the light

(Chorus)
Bowline cleat and green seaweed, memories of the sea
Damp locker, salty clothes, a life that's wild and free

(Verse 3)
Bright phospherence lighting our way, in the black nights
Flashing nights and prominent headlands, under starry lights

Glossy varnish, graceful lines, a vessel fine and true
Narrow beam and coach roof, the sailor's world in view

(Chorus)
Sliding hatch and colored halyards, a sailor's work is never done
Grey chain and heavy anchor, a life under the sun

Damp cushions and slow oven, a sailor's simple life
Pitching yawl and VHF channel, through calm and strife

As we journey through the oceans, with distant voices calling
Nautical chatter and white horses, the sea's majestic brawling

Slicing crests and Channel chop, we persevere with might
Trimmed genoa and chrome windlass, sailing through the night

And in the end, we'll raise our sails, under mackerel skies
White beaches and steep cliffs, where the fearless soul flies

Sailing south and curving foil, on a dusty track we roam
Isolated islands and rolling seas, our hearts forever at home.

Power & Society - Fighting for their rights and place in society

Shivering, shaking, blinking, I suddenly woke from deep sleep to a nightmare. Hearing terrifying cries, filling the night’s darkness with violent, echoing chaos, I put my head under a pillow. 

Arrows took the last breath away from the night watch and silenced the guards.

The silent northern blue tattooed raiding Celts, skilfully scaling the hamlet’s wooded defences and breeching the defences, were now howling for blood. Swinging, flashing silver blades struck the heart of my community. 

BedNow howling and screaming, the violators charged, kicking in doors, entering, and ending the lives of families stumbling from their last slumbering movements. Oozing blood flowing from the living signalled the ending of their conscious existence. Final screams and gurgling from surprised, gaping mouths signalled their ending. They had no chance. 

The burring hamlet on Priory Hill sent flaming fingers upwards. Rejecting clouds lit up an image of bedlam and hell.

Grabbing my hands, with the tattooed raiders storming up the stairs, Leif and Magnus were lowering me out of the window. The old world was ending. Capturing Gyda and dragging her away, they torched the wooden house and cremated the bodies. 

These are the worst scenes from the nightmares haunting my early life. May you never experience the miasmas from hell's infernos of the burning stench of human flesh and panicking, baying animals escaping flaming barns.

Stumbling along a hidden forest path with night birds guiding and flanking our paths to safety, a parliament of Tawney owls scouted the escape route. Bats sonic screeching helped by spotting hazards and fallen trees. A chorus of hooting was guiding the fleeing refugees. Silent, sure-footed roe deer guarding the flanks helped by propping us up, stopping us from falling.

Away to the Northwest, on Priory Hill, evil skies still reflected the evil raiders' deeds; angry red and yellow flames reflected against the clouds.

At the end of the escapade from the raiders, the trooping deer, who had been skilfully and quietly escorting my frail party, led us into a secret hunting lodge hidden high in the foothills of the fabled Tabletop Mountains. 

Dense thickets, fast-flowing rivers and small lakes guarded the refuge. Only the best and fittest survived here. Eagles and birds of prey, carrying out high-level reconnaissance from the skies, were searching, scanning, and circling the hidden refuge for signs of approach from the marauding kidnappers.

For two days, laying low, we spent sleeping, talking, planning, and discussing escaping from our catastrophic nightmare. Staying locked in the warmth and security of our safe house would have been the easy option. The will and the desire to save Gyda and try to do something positive was the winning option. 

Again, with the roe deer silently guiding us through the thickets, we found a small coracle tied to the moss-covered bank of the fast-flowing riverbank. With salmon and otters escorting us, the leather craft quickly bobbed down the winding river. Birds, wrens, robins and crows were keeping a sharp lookout. Ferrying past rocky rapids, valley troughs, and deep pools with swirling whirlpools, we escaped to the sandy estuary where the river entered the bay. Here, the deer and bird friends gave the protective escort to gannets, petrels, and black-backed gulls. Dancing, glinting dolphins began towing the tiny craft over the blue seas to the magical castle on the island in the west where the sun sets. 

As the moon waxed, the dolphins safely guided us into a sheltered cove hidden from prying eyes and the evil raiders.

Scheming how to rescue Gyda in the magical island castle, Magnus, the wise, began slowly evolving his cunning plan with the horned, helmeted Norsemen. Leif used his heroic father’s links to build new friendships with the clans, families and alliances that had evolved from his family’s proud heritage, exploring distant lands across the ocean toward the setting sun.

The petrels and swallows were constantly bringing news of sightings and developments on the movements of the northern raiders. A drugged and tied-up Gyda was being taken north into the Purple Mountains and the home of the Celt marauders.

Circling high over the hill route to the northern purple mountains, buzzards following the raiders constantly informed of the raider’s movement. Thinking, working hard, and mapping out the information, Magnus was developing a courageous plan to save Gyda. He was delegating duties and tasks in the briefing for the raid to save Gyda. Whales and dolphins for aiding the rescue party across the blue seas and into the sandy estuary. Flights of birds were the eyes and ears, deer and hares leading the heroic rescuers to the brigand’s camp.

Tawney owls coordinating the rescue, hooting as dawn broke, secretly scouting the approach route to the brigand’s den. Asta, Magnus and Lief, riding on the backs of the deer, knowing the otters were breaching the stockade, prepared their stun grenades and laser swords. Creeping through the silent, sleeping enemy den with snoring Celts, quietly waking a trembling Gyda, Leif treading silently led the brave raiders to the safety of the surrounding forest.

The animal friends, escorting the rescuers, gave no clues to the drunken Celts. At the estuary, a school of whales, towing the long boat, ploughing the gentle waves, sped the rescuers to safety.

Gyda, crying, laughing, speaking, told the party of her ordeal when the golden eagle landed on the balcony and told how the Celts, fighting a losing battle with the forest animals, were being driven out of their mountain dens.

Celebrating the victory, Asta, proclaiming peace, declared independence for the animals and the people in the magical land of the Winding River.

Power & Society

Early Years Child Development at South View

What pathway will an infant take when crawling towards the crossroads of awareness, finding meaning, developing perceptions, experiencing feelings, and creating an early understanding of the world? Does it matter?

My beautiful nursery teacher left the classroom during the art sessions, and the stern gatekeeper secretary stood on guard, unsure of how to control thirty toddlers. And, of course, whilst painting a colourful impressionist beach painting, I knocked over the jar holding the water.

As quickly as a puppy terrier eating scraps falling from the dinner table, the interloping outsider invading our cosy, safe, and secure room demanded if it was deliberate or accidental. If I said something wrong, my timidity would receive a stiff verbal lashing not prescribed in the Montessori philosophy.

Infant art education - language development and thinking skills

I looked at the Secretary’s permed hair and smart attire; please don’t touch me or wipe your nose on my skirt, and I thought she was from a different tribe and culture to the women where I came from. I experienced this insight many other times…more later.

A careful response to this new person with her signs and symbols of power and authority was needed. Ruefully and carefully, I considered the question and replied, I do not know what deliberate or accidental means.

An infant's language experience in an English nursery

Mrs Prim and the proper School Secretary's face broke into an enormous smile, and she bent down and kissed me on my forehead. I thought language is only useful when a shared understanding of its meaning exists.

There was a structural problem in this social transaction. As if sent for, my beloved, pretty teacher returned to save me from the trauma of the outsider’s interrogation.

Sappho, the Ancient Greek poet Sappho contemporised

In a contemporary verse, I shall dwell,
On the words of Sappho, her stories to tell.
Through the corridors of time, they have soared,
With longing and love, her heartstrings outpoured.

Gazing upon the moon's ethereal gleam,
Sappho's verses dance, like a lucid dream.
She unraveled secrets, the desire she knew,
A poetess divine, her words ringing true.

From distant shores, with passion she yearned,
Her verses ignited, the passion she churned.
In words untamed, her emotions unfurled,
A symphony of longing that set souls awhirl.

Lost in time, silent fragments are found,
Yet whispers of her voice sublimely resound.
I'll attempt to complete her unfinished lines,
In a tapestry of words, a dance that defines.

"Come close and let me hear your gentle sigh,
Whisper promises that forever shall lie,
In the realms where love knows no boundary,
United in dreams, our souls shall run free.

Like wildflowers dancing in the summer sun,
Our love will bloom, a river overflows as one.
Through every twist and turn, forever entwined,
In love's embrace, our spirits aligned.

With every beat of the heart, a love divine,
Our souls aflame, like stars that forever shine.
No distance can tear us apart, we are bound,
In a love that forever echoes, profound.

In the shadows of night, we find solace near,
Into the darkness, our love holds no fear.
For even in silence, our souls will collide,
In the sacred realm where passion resides.

So let these words complete Sappho's plead,
In a contemporary flow, her desires we read.
Her legacy lives on, in whispers and sighs,
Forever entwined, our hearts reach the skies."

Idnetity & self-discovery