Literary Distilation

In this deprecation of human society, the narrator is attempting to convince the reader that humans make bad decisions, undervalue the little things in life, and aren’t thankful enough for existing in the first place. The author does so by stating things like, “Gentlefolks in general have a very awkward rock ahead in life” and “You dabble in nasty mud, and made pies, when you were a child; and you dabble in nasty science, and dissect spiders, and spoil flowers, when you grow up”, these quotes are used to convey the obstacles and cruel nature of life. This is entitled for the more intellectual peoples who can understand some of its sophisticated vocabulary.

"Angry" Letter Assignment

Dear Coach Heagney,

Thanks for an amazing season, I am still completely shocked about how well the Norton High School hockey team did. I just wanted to let you know that each and every one of us have tremendous pride in our accomplishments. While I wish I could have gotten more playing time, I still had the time of my life this season. Everyone on the team treated me very kindly and made me feel like I was a part of the group. I am extremely grateful for that.

The skills and techniques that you taught me this season made me a better hockey player, from your defensive zone set-up to your “pass of pads” philosophy. I can now apply those skills when I play summer league, my town teams, and even when I’m playing street hockey. I am very happy that I chose to play at Norton instead of Somerset, it was the right choice.

I don’t know if you think the same as I do, but I believe that Bobby played amazing this year. He was always where he needed to be. He also came through in the clutch to score some really important goals. Maverick played well too, despite his many penalties, and Cassy played strong in net. Troy played really well this season too, he was basically the backbone of the team. Everyone on the team contributed in some way. Of course that’s only my opinion.

To conclude, I once again want to thank you, Coach Heagney, for all that you did for me and the NHS team during this remarkable season. I will always remember the fun we had and I am eager to attend tryouts next year. Have a great day.

Best Regards,

           John Silvia #20

Unorthodox Narration Piece

Sitting on the bench at Driscoll Rink,

unable to breathe and sweating uncontrollably. You watch as the bench door closes, then reach for a water bottle. You gulp down a few sips then stand up. Watching as an opponent races off on a breakaway, he scores. Your head drops in disappointment. As you stare at your skates, you say with great determination, “This game is not over.”

You pick your head up and look at the scoreboard. The team is losing by a goal with seven minutes remaining in the game. You slide your way to the front of the line on the bench. As you prepare to jump on to the ice, you gaze back at Coach who looks just as anxious as you are. A teammate skates to the bench and calls for a change. You hop on the ice and skate into the defensive zone to help out. As you get into the zone, you look around and quickly examine where you should be. Positioning yourself at the top of the left wing circle as the puck is passed to the defensmen you are assigned to cover. Skating towards him as he winds up for a slap shot.

The puck hits your shin pad with a loud thud and bounces into the neutral zone. You are now in a full out foot race with the defensmen. Running out of breathe, you know the game now rests on your shoulders. You gain inside position on the defensemen and gain control of the puck. The defensemen falls down as you get a quick burst of speed. Now it is just you and the goalie, one on one, if you score the game will be tied.

Everything now seems to be moving in slow motion as you focus in on the goaltender. You advance up the ice, gasping for air. As you approach the crease, the goalie dives for the poke check, but misses. You have a wide open net to shoot at. As the puck leaves your stick, you hold your breath. The puck goes top shelf. The parents loud applause fills the rink, you celebrate as if you had won the lottery. You are a hero.

Eventually your team scores again, and win three to two. But it couldn't have happened without you. You smile with great pride as you get dressed in the locker room. A job well done.