please mark! golden age text response

[eloise1231]

hi all, this is a golden age text response essay that i've written. it would be really helpful for me to get some feedback and a mark if possible! thanks heaps!!

“You must have a certain ruthlessness.” What is it that enables the characters in The Golden Age to survive?

Joan London’s novel The Golden Age, set in 1950s Perth, chronicles 12-year-old Frank Gold’s experiences with polio during his formative years, and the effects both polio and war have on those around him and their families. Many of Frank’s peers are confronted with significant obstacles through the impacts of polio, war, and their interpersonal relationships, necessitating them to draw on any means available if they wish to survive.

One of the most potent facilitators of survival throughout the text is the love the characters have for each other- in spite of seemingly unsurmountable events, the characters find strength and tenacity through their bonds with other people. Initially in the text, Meyer is depicted as a stoic and unassailable figure in Frank’s life- however, as the text progresses, he is revealed as an extremely introspective character struggling to endure his separation from “his city” and his feelings of “failure” for not “protecting” Frank from polio. However, when Meyer visits Frank, he is reminded of the “bliss of being loved”, which comforts him and assists him in persevering through the “exile” he faces in Perth. Frank’s “unconditional affection” for Meyer makes his “head go quiet at last”, illustrating to the reader how the “balm” of being loved has a calming and soothing effect upon Meyer, allowing him to temporarily forget the guilt he feels about Frank’s contraction of polio. When coupled with Meyer’s previous feelings that he was “beyond intimacy” and “terminally tired”, Meyer’s changed outlook upon receiving Frank’s affection accentuates how love has motivated him to survive. This is further emphasised by the juxtaposition of Meyer’s personality before and after he spends time at the Golden Age with the other families. Beforehand, when alone, he seems hopeless and desolate, stating that the “wide streets felt empty”, signifying his dreary outlook on life in Perth. However, after spending time with his family and newfound friends, Meyer begins to realise that the “past seems further away”, even telling Ida that their son’s “first Christmas at a polio hospital” was “good”- suggesting that although Frank is stricken with polio and confined at the Golden Age, the love they receive there is sufficient to help them endure this “trial”. Thus, Meyer’s change of heart and newfound lightness of spirit indicates that the love he has received has granted him a reason to survive, allowing him to conquer his feelings about this place of “exile” and to find hope in bleak times. 

The characters in The Golden Age are often obligated to survive through the responsibility they feel for others, thus giving them a motive to withstand the considerable hardships they confront. As the characters believe they must survive for the sake of others, they are seemingly left with no other option but to persist, thus enabling them to push themselves beyond their own limits in the pursuit of survival. In the Isolation Ward, although Elsa believes she is dying, she forces herself to stay alive as she knows that “if she was, her mother would also die”, indicating the extent of the responsibility that Elsa feels towards her mother. Elsa’s unwillingness to die, not for her own reasons but so her mother will survive, highlights her commitment towards protecting her family. This commitment propels her to “concentrate” on “holding on”, accentuating the strength Elsa must put towards this “one thing”- survival. Enduring the Isolation Ward, which she describes as her “worst time”, is near impossible for Elsa, and she is only able to come through because of her obligation towards her mother, who is “breakable”.  Conversely, London draws a contrast between Elsa’s responsibility to her family and Frank’s refusal of this responsibility. Frank “refuses to be [his parents’] only light”, and as he shirks the responsibility of being his parents’ source of “happiness”, he loses a motive for survival. Instead of the fear many of the other characters speak of in their polio onset stories, Frank describes the experience as being “matter-of-fact”, indicating his complacency and apathy towards his survival- although polio threatens his life, he appears to have no reason to survive and instead is almost glad to have contracted it as it has taught his parents “a lesson”. In this way, London’s dichotomy between Elsa’s strong intent on survival and Frank’s indifference towards life or death- shown when Sullivan mentions that Frank has “come to terms with death”- accentuates the direct correlation between the responsibility the characters feel for others and their will to survive. This suggests that a greater obligation towards others can give characters a reason to survive, as it forces them to survive not only for themselves but for the good of others. 

It is not only external factors which enable the characters to survive, but their own innate capabilities. London depicts the discovery of certain facets of one’s identity as a key factor in the survival of certain characters. Upon Frank’s discovery of his vocation, he feels as though he can “overcome anything” because he has a “vocation”, which engenders a sense of purpose and meaning in Frank’s life. This gives Frank a reason to “overcome” his battle with polio as he feels that his “future has been restored” to him. This emphasises to the reader how the discovery of his vocation, an integral part of his personality and identity, is imperative in allowing Frank to rediscover the true reason for his survival- for the “future” he will eventually attain. This encourages Frank to continue his battle with the after-effects of polio as well as to persevere in his efforts with poetry. Frank’s attachment to poetry adds a new source of depth and meaning in his life, and in his eagerness to uncover more about it, Frank involuntarily begins to recover from polio and withstand the effects it has had on him, for although it has “taken his legs” it has granted him his vocation. The impact that the characters’ intrinsic capabilities have upon their own survival is further exemplified through Ida’s experiences during the war. She mentions that when she played piano, she was required to have a “certain ruthlessness”, and as the novel progresses, this “ruthlessness” within Ida is proven to facilitate the survival of both Frank and herself. Ida’s “loneliness” at her separation from Meyer and her resultant “sad, tight heart” emphasise the sense of loss and helplessness Ida feels throughout the war as she is separated from her husband and then, briefly, her son. This helplessness Ida feels is shown to have a drastic impact upon her, as she feels as if the “courage of her bones” has been stripped from her. However, as the novel progresses, Ida is shown to call upon her “fighting core of survival” and of “self-love”, which she must “not lose”. These resources she draws upon provide her with the strength to overcome the fear and losses she endures, such as her separation from Frank and Meyer- although Ida confronts her challenges alone, the aspects of her identity such as the “hunger” to win and survive equip her to not only endure the war, but protect her child at the same time. Through this, London suggests that the cultivation of aspects within Ida’s identity are what allows her to withstand the vulnerability and helplessness she feels without Meyer. Hence, the discovery and enhancement of new aspects of individuality and ability are shown to give characters not only a means but a reason for survival. 

Through many different origins, the will and desire to survive can be fostered- often characters are able to utilise whatever resources are available to them in order to withstand seemingly insurmountable events. The love of others is a notable source of the strength and vitality of many characters, whereas others are obligated to survive through the responsibility they feel for others. However, the will to survive can often be obtained from the characters’ own identities, and the previously undiscovered aspects of them which come to light in times of adversity. 

[amentzing]

Overall the essay was easy to read but didn't really link back to the topic until the third paragraph. Try to avoid talking about only one character in each paragraph if you can as well. Given that there are so little resources I'm hoping the examiners will mark us lightly. I'll share an essay of mine that would probably get like a 7 (maybe?). I've also put together a small phrase bank as well which I'll share.

[amentzing]

‘She was his homing point, the place he returned to.’ (pg 119) London’s The Golden Age demonstrates that love helps people overcome adversity. Do you agree?

Joan London’s The Golden Age depicts a time in which love and acceptance were essential to the survival of many during an era of hardship. Set in Perth, during the 1950s, ‘the years of great epidemics’ London’s novel explores the need for affection and committed relationships in the fight for survival. Within her text, London explores the many ways in which people can be affected by unforeseen tragedy and suffering. Additionally, the importance of a fulfilling vocation is presented as a method for coping with personal trials and tribulations. Fundamentally, it is the love shared between family, friends and acquaintances that is depicted as the most influential force when overcoming adversity.

Throughout The Golden Age, the effects of hardships and sudden misfortune is explored. While those residing at The Golden Age Children’s Polio Convalescent Home must face challenges each day, they find comfort in each-others presence and acceptance. From the texts beginning, London emphasises the difficulty for ‘the new boy’ during his migration to Australia. Despite coming down with polio Frank is able to overcome much of his sadness with the support of those he meets in various hospitals. While he is often thought of as ‘the kid’ by many on account of his mischievous behaviour, it was his ability to be a ‘resilient little fellow’ that allowed Frank the greatest acceptance at both Infectious Diseases Branch and The Golden Age. Elsa’s plight, similar to that of Frank, unexpectedly takes away her ability to use her legs, and for a while, her dreams of becoming a doctor, as her Aunt Nance encourages her to instead invest in a ‘quiet, sedentary job.’ Despite her auntie’s efforts, within the epilogue, her son Jack recalls to Frank that ‘she retired from medicine,’ highlighting her ability to overcome adversity for the dream career. The love she receives from her mother, Margaret as well as Frank, affords her the ability to overcome her suffering and achieve despite the challenges she has faced. Although not suffering from polio, Sister Olive Penny faces challenges of her own, following the death of her husband by a ‘sniper’s bullet in Egypt.’ After she ‘lost faith in everything,’ she found that ‘nursing sustained her,’ while also finding joy in the achievements of her daughter Elizabeth Ann, who her ‘father would be terribly proud of.’ Despite the varying effects of the challenges faced by such individuals, they are able to overcome such sufferings with the love and acceptance of those around them.

Throughout her text, London also explores the significance of a satisfying vocation in surviving and managing misfortunes and setbacks. Prominent for both Frank and Sullivan is their love for poetry and their use of it as a distraction, allowing them to ‘overcome any hardship.’ Although Frank had ‘hardly given poetry a moment’s thought,’ he finds, with the help of Sullivan that ‘poetry didn’t have to be about heroics,’ giving him the ability to use his new found hobby as a pastime to entertain him throughout his suffering. Similarly, after Sullivan loses the use of his legs and his capability to perform in ‘his real love [of] sailing,’ he finds comfort in poetry. His vocation also allows him to ‘[come] to terms with death,’ which he considers to be an ‘early advantage’ for both himself and Frank. Both Sullivan Backhouse and Frank Gold are shown throughout the text to use their talent to triumph, despite the tribulations they face. Additionally, Franks mother, Ida Gold, also uses her talent as a pianist as means of survival during her time in both Buda and Pest when confronted with the hardship associated with World War II. ‘It was her giftedness’ for playing the piano, which she believed in ‘its surprisingness, came from God,’ that allowed the safety of herself, Frank and Meyer from the dangers of the war. All in all, the author emphasises that a love for something such as a vocation in overcoming hardship is essential.

Ultimately, it is shown that the support and commitment of family, friends and peers that affords them their greatest opportunity to achieve despite suffering misfortune. Many of the children recovering at The Golden Age have a knowledge of what their parents are going through due to the disease they now suffer from. Meyer’s love for his thirteen year old son, shared also by Elsa Briggs, allows Frank to have a reason for survival. His recollection of taking ‘two – no, three – steps on [his] own,’ to Meyer early in the text displays the care Frank, as well as many others took in regards to their parents, knowing they had ‘left tragedy at home with their mothers and fathers.’ Similar to the relationship shared between Frank and Meyer, Elsa and her mother Margret are also shown to have a strong bond. Although ‘all kids could identify their mother’s footsteps,’ Elsa and her mother appeared to have a more intense connection. Elsa’s belief that ‘she’d only kept breathing … so that her mother wouldn’t die,’ emphasises the importance of family, not only to her, but the other children as well. Additionally, the children’s affection for each other within the convalescent home also motivates them to recover to the best of their ability. Both Frank and Elsa are shown to have a close relationship, giving them a chance, ‘until they went home,’ to forget ‘they were in a tragedy.' The understanding of each-others plight allowed the children to be content in their ‘natural quarantine,’ while continuing to improve their condition. Fundamentally, it is the love from family, friend and acquaintances that encourages and allows these children to overcome the sudden tragedy of polio.

London’s text emphasises that it is possible to achieve out of adversity, not only with a meaningful vocation but also committed relationships with those around them. Through love from their family and friends especially, those within the novel are able to ‘find [their] feet’ both physically and mentally and achieve out of misfortune.

[clarke54321]

Although this post has exceeded the period of 30 days, I've provided feedback on these essays in the interest of future students studying The Golden Age 

hi all, this is a golden age text response essay that i've written. it would be really helpful for me to get some feedback and a mark if possible! thanks heaps!!

“You must have a certain ruthlessness.” What is it that enables the characters in The Golden Age to survive?

Joan London’s novel The Golden Age, set in 1950s Perth, chronicles 12-year-old Frank Gold’s experiences although Frank is the main character, this prompt does not solely focus on Frank. You need to communicate this to examiners. In an opening sentence, it would be fantastic to acknowledge the microcosmic nature of the Golden Age, and its extended examination of the human condition. with polio during his formative years, and the effects both polio and war have on those around him and their families. Many of Frank’s peershere is a nice expansion. But are obstacles only endured by his peers? Consider the adults in this novel and their many adversities. are confronted with significant obstacles through the impacts of polio, war, and their interpersonal relationships, necessitating them to draw on any meansthis is pertinent to the essay question. Hence, these means ought to be delineated early in the introduction. available if they wish to survive.

One of the most potent facilitators of survival throughout the text is the loveabsolutely. This should be signposted in your intro. the characters have for each other- in spite of seemingly unsurmountable events, the characters find strength and tenacity through their bonds with other people. Initially in the text, Meyer is depicted as a stoic and unassailable figureyou must support this with textual evidence in Frank’s life- however, as the text progresses, he is revealed as an extremely introspective character struggling to endure his separation from “his city” and his feelings of “failure” for not “protecting” Frank from polio <---this is retelling. It's fantastic to pick up on character development, but without proper analysis, this insight becomes lost. . However, when Meyer visits Frank, he is reminded of the “bliss of being loved”, which comforts him and assists himhow? Evidence required. in persevering through the “exile” he faces in Perth. Frank’s “unconditional affection” for Meyer makes his “head go quiet at last”, illustrating to the reader how the “balm” of being loved has a calming and soothing effect upon Meyer, allowing him to temporarily forget the guilt he feels about Frank’s contraction of polio this is lovely analysis! Try and flesh out evidence like this throughout the entirety of your essay. When coupled with Meyer’s previous feelings that he was “beyond intimacy” and “terminally tired”, Meyer’s changed outlook upon receiving Frank’s affection accentuates how love has motivated him to survivecan you strengthen the connection between love and survival? The association between love and serenity is firm, given your previous analysis. But I'm not sure about the former relationship. Perhaps you can speak of the spiritual affinity Meyer has with Olive. In the chapter, "Meyer Walks Home," there is a distinct character shift (with Olive being the obvious catalyst). Note also in this chapter how London narratives only the experience of Meyer.. This is further emphasised by the juxtaposition of Meyer’s personality before and after he spends time at the Golden Age with the other families. Beforehand, when alone, he seems hopeless and desolate, stating that the “wide streets felt empty”, signifying his dreary outlook on life in Perthcan you infer anything else from this phrase? In wide streets you'd expect an abundance of traffic, walkers, etc. So for these streets to be empty, amplifies the utter seclusion of Perth (perhaps echoing Meyer's own internal displacement).. However, after spending time with his family and newfound friends, Meyer begins to realise that the “past seems further away”, even telling Ida that their son’s “first Christmas at a polio hospital” was “good”- suggesting that although Frank is stricken with polio and confined at the Golden Age, the love they receiveyou've skimmed over this too quickly. What love? A highly significant person you are neglecting is Olive Penny. She precipitates all of these seemingly absurd reactions in Meyer. there is sufficient to help them endure this “trial”. Thus, Meyer’s change of heart and newfound lightness of spirit indicates that the love he has received has granted him a reason to survive, allowing him to conquer his feelings about this place of “exile” and to find hope in bleak times with some further analysis, this would be an excellent argument.. 

The characters in The Golden Age are often obligated to surviveexpression is a bit odd. through the responsibility they feel for others, thus giving them a motive to withstand the considerable hardships they confront a very nice argument. As the characters believe they must survive for the sake of others, they are seemingly left with no other option but to persist, thus enabling them to push themselves beyond their own limits in the pursuit of survival <---hmm...this seems like an extended topic sentence? I'd class it as redundant. Get into some analysis.. In the Isolation Ward, although Elsa believes she is dying, she forces herself to stay alive as she knows that “if she was, her mother would also die”, indicating the extent of the responsibilitytease this out further. There is the implication that she and her mother are interconnected. Discuss the concept of interdependency. How the actions of one, influence the lives of others. that Elsa feels towards her mother. Elsa’s unwillingness to die, not for her own reasons but so her mother will survive, highlights her commitment towards protecting her family <--paraphrasing the previous sentence. Omit.. This commitment propels her to “concentrate” on “holding on”, accentuating the strength Elsa must put towards this “one thing”- survival. Enduring the Isolation Ward, which she describes as her “worst time”, is near impossible for Elsa, and she is only able to come through because of her obligation towards her mother, who is “breakable”this is all retelling/repeating previous ideas.  Conversely, London draws a contrast between Elsa’s responsibility to her family and Frank’s refusal of this responsibility lovely contrast. Frank “refuses to be [his parents’] only light”, and as he shirks the responsibility of being his parents’ source of “happiness”, he loses a motive for survival. Instead of the fear many of the other characters speak of in their polio onset stories, Frank describes the experience as being “matter-of-fact”, indicating his complacencyis it complacency? and apathy towards his survival- although polio threatens his life, he appears to have no reason to survive and instead is almost glad to have contracted it as it has taught his parents “a lesson”yes, Frank is undeniably spiteful towards his parents, but it is a stretch to argue that he has no reason to survive (if you can't justify it with evidence + analysis). In relation to Frank's survival, I'd consider Sullivan + Elsa.. In this way, London’s dichotomy between Elsa’s strong intent on survival and Frank’s indifference towards life or death- shown when Sullivan mentions that Frank has “come to terms with death”this is out of context. Sullivan is referring to the idea of acceptance, and how to thrive in the midst of tragedy.- accentuates the direct correlationyes, but only if you neglect Frank's relations with others (which won't allow for a nuanced discussion) between the responsibility the characters feel for others and their will to survive. This suggests that a greater obligation towards others can give characters a reason to survive, as it forces them to survive not only for themselves but for the good of others. 

It is not only external factors which enable the characters to survive, but also their own innate capabilitiesDoes love not pertain to something innate? Consider #1 paragraph. . London depicts the discovery of certain facets of one’s identity as a key factor in the survival of certain characters<---very clunky in expression. Upon Frank’s discovery of his vocation, he feels as though he can “overcome anything” because he has a “vocation”, which engenders a sense of purpose and meaning in Frank’s life. This gives Frank a reason to “overcome”you must flesh this out further. Reconcile the connection between vocation and purpose. Think about Frank's conversations with Sullivan. What does poetry signify for them? Especially its style. Not rhyming, not strutting about, relishing in quotidian experience, etc. This all points to originality/rawness. his battle with polio as he feels that his “future has been restored” to him the idea of restoration will become stronger if you include a discussion about poetry . This emphasises to the reader how the discovery of his vocation, an integral part of his personality and identity, is imperative in allowing Frank to rediscover the true reason for his survival- for the “future” he will eventually attain great V+V statement, but the intermediate, wholesome analysis is lacking.. This encourages Frank to continue his battle with the after-effects of polio as well as to persevere in his efforts with poetry <-- see how this contradicts paragraph 2?. Frank’s attachment to poetry adds a new source of depth and meaning in his life, and in his eagerness to uncover more about it, Frank involuntarily begins to recover from polio and withstand the effects it has had on him, for although it has “taken his legs” it has granted him his vocation rambling. The impact that the characters’ intrinsic capabilities have upon their own survival is further exemplified through Ida’s experiences during the war. She mentions that when she played piano, she was required to have a “certain ruthlessness”why does it grant her with this ruthlessness?, and as the novel progresses, this “ruthlessness” within Ida is proven to facilitate the survival of both Frank and herself. Ida’s “loneliness” at her separation from Meyer and her resultant “sad, tight heart” emphasise the sense of loss and helplessness how did you come to this conclusion? What does the word "tight" indicate? Devoid of feeling/expression?Ida feels throughout the war as she is separated from her husband and then, briefly, her son. This helplessness Ida feels is shown to have a drastic impact upon her, as she feels as if the “courage of her bones” has been stripped from her <--analyse everything you quote. Using quotes as mere evidence pushes you into the dangers of retelling.. However, as the novel progresses, Ida is shown to call upon her “fighting core of survival” and of “self-love”, which she must “not lose”. These resources she draws upon provide her with the strength to overcome the fear and losses she endures, such as her separation from Frank and Meyer- although Ida confronts her challenges alone, the aspects of her identity such as the “hunger” to win and survive equip her to not only endure the war, but protect her child at the same time retelling. Think about the way Ida employs a conscious ignorance to survive. . Through this, London suggests that the cultivation of aspects within Ida’s identity are what allows her to withstand the vulnerability and helplessness she feels without Meyer. Hence, the discovery and enhancement of new aspects of individuality and ability are shown to give characters not only a means but a reason for survival.

Through many different origins, the will and desire to survive can be fostered- often characters are able to utilise whatever resources are available to them in order to withstand seemingly insurmountable events. The love of others is a notable source of the strength and vitality of many characters, whereas others are obligated to survive through the responsibility they feel for others. However, the will to survive can often be obtained from the characters’ own identities, and the previously undiscovered aspects of them which come to light in times of adversity.Although some wonderful insight comes through in this conclusion, and essay for that matter, it seems very disjointed. There's no defined contention/interpretation. 

‘She was his homing point, the place he returned to.’ (pg 119) London’s The Golden Age demonstrates that love helps people overcome adversity. Do you agree?

Joan London’s The Golden Age depicts a time in which love and acceptance were essentialkeep to the present tense to the survival of many during an era of hardship. Set in Perth, during the 1950s, ‘the years of great epidemics’ London’s novel explores the need for affection and committed relationships in the fight for survival. Within her text, London exploresbe careful not to overdo a discussion of authorial exploration. Examiners need to see your own insight/arguments. There's a reason why the prompt asks, "Do you agree?" the many ways in which people can be affected by unforeseen tragedy and suffering. Additionally, the importance of a fulfilling vocation is presented as a method for copingthis deviates from the prompt. If you want to discuss the significance of vocation, you need to expand the definition of "love." Love can be interpreted in a myriad of ways. with personal trials and tribulations. Fundamentally, it is the love shared between family, friends and acquaintances that is depicted as the most influential force when overcoming adversity. this introduction focuses heavily on sources of love. It does not, however, examine how love subjugates adversity (how it thus cultivates a sense of belonging: think about the quote's significance.)- the crux of the essay question.

Throughout The Golden Age, the effects of hardships and sudden misfortune is exploredagain, where is your own argument?. While those residing at The Golden Age Children’s Polio Convalescent Home must face challenges each day, they find comfort in each-others presence and acceptance. From the texts beginning, London emphasises the difficulty for ‘the new boy’ during his migration to Australia <---this is retelling. To maintain relevance to the prompt, analyse the way this "new boy" identity precludes sincere love (given the judgement/exclusion immigrants so often endure). Despite coming down with polio Frank is able to overcome much of his sadness with the support of those he meets in various hospitals. While he is often thought of as ‘the kid’ by many on account of his mischievous behaviour, it was his ability to be a ‘resilient little fellow’ that allowed Frank the greatest acceptance this is merely retelling. How did it allow for acceptance? Was it his capacity for interaction, for empathy? The notion of mutuality is critical in this novel.at both Infectious Diseases Branch and The Golden Age. Elsa’s plight, similar to that of Frank, unexpectedly takes away her ability to use her legs, and for a while, her dreams of becoming a doctor, as her Aunt Nance encourages her to instead invest in a ‘quiet, sedentary job.’ Despite her auntie’s efforts, within the epilogue, her son Jack recalls to Frank that ‘she retired from medicine,’ highlighting her ability to overcome adversity for the dream career there is no analysis here-only retelling. Also, you seem to be ignoring love as the solution here. Your most recent example centres itself around tenacity- not love.. The love she receives from her mother, Margaret as well as Frank, affords her the ability to overcome her suffering and achieve despite the challenges she has faced<--evidence/analysis required Although not suffering from polio, Sister Olive Penny faces challenges of her ownthis is a very quick leap. Coherency is lacking between points., following the death of her husband by a ‘sniper’s bullet in Egypt.’ After she ‘lost faith in everything,’ she found that ‘nursing sustained her <--- this is a vocational solution (love?),’ while also finding joy in the achievements of her daughter Elizabeth Ann, who her ‘father would be terribly proud of.’ Despite the varying effects of the challenges faced by such individuals, they are able to overcome such sufferings with the love and acceptanceTo establish a greater logicality between points, you need to expand the definition of love. Does a vocation open one up to love? Does acceptance motivate love? These are the questions that ought to be answered/scrutinised in your body paragraph if you take the above direction. of those around them.

Throughout her text, London also exploresswap this verb for asserts/intimates/imparts. It should seperate your own thinking to that of the author. the significance of a satisfying vocation in surviving and managing misfortunes and setbacks. Prominent for both Frank and Sullivan is their love for poetry and their use of it as a distraction, allowing them to ‘overcome any hardship.’<--focus on how it allows them to overcome hardship. Remember that this prompt is centred around love. Although Frank had ‘hardly given poetry a moment’s thought,’ he finds, with the help of Sullivan that ‘poetry didn’t have to be about heroics,’ giving him the ability to use his new found hobby as a pastime to entertain him throughout his suffering why don't you consider the connection between poetry and contentedness (self-love)? This would link very nicely to the prompt. To expand on this connection, recognise the symbolic association between poetry (Sullivan's flexible structure of it) and the victims' own bodies. Learning to accept and love the unconventional. Finding solace in their condition.. Similarly, after Sullivan loses the use of his legs and his capability to perform in ‘his real love [of] sailing,’ he finds comfort in poetry. His vocation also allows him to ‘[come] to terms with death,’ which he considers to be an ‘early advantage’ for both himself and Frank why? You really need to reconcile the threshold between finding belonging+ love + overcoming adversity.. Both Sullivan Backhouse and Frank Gold are shown throughout the text to use their talent to triumph, despite the tribulations they face. Additionally, Franks mother, Ida Gold, also uses her talent as a pianist as means of survival during her time in both Buda and Pest when confronted with the hardship associated with World War II. ‘It was her giftedness’ for playing the piano, which she believed in ‘its surprisingness, came from God,’ that allowed the safety of herself, Frank and Meyer from the dangers of the war. All in all, the author emphasises that a love for something such as a vocation in overcoming hardship is essentialnow your direction makes more sense. This needs to be in the topic sentence, AND defined in the introduction. After all, everything in a prompt is up to interpretation, so long as you can plausibly justify it. .

Ultimately, it is shown that the support and commitment of family, friends and peers that affords themwho is them? The prompt is all-encompassing (in the context of those facing hardship). Be specific here. their greatest opportunity to achieve despite suffering misfortune. Many of the children recovering at The Golden Age have a knowledge of what their parents are going through due to the disease they now suffer from evidence needed. Olive talks about how these children have an awareness beyond their years.They are conscious of the obligation they owe their parents.. Meyer’s love for his thirteen year old son, shared also by Elsa Briggs, allows Frank to have a reason for survival. His recollection of taking ‘two – no, three – steps on [his] own,’ to Meyer early in the text displays the care Frank, as well as many others took in regards to their parents, knowing they had ‘left tragedy at home with their mothers and fathers.’ Similar to the relationship shared between Frank and Meyer, Elsa and her mother Margret are also shown to have a strong bond.<--and how does this rapport grant children with strength? Although ‘all kids could identify their mother’s footsteps,’ Elsa and her mother appeared to have a more intense connection. Elsa’s belief that ‘she’d only kept breathing … so that her mother wouldn’t die,’ emphasises the importance of family, not only to her, but the other children as well tease it out further. A very powerful sense of interdependency. Without one, the other cannot function.. Additionally, the children’s affection for each other within the convalescent home also motivates them to recover to the best of their ability. Both Frank and Elsa are shown to have a close relationship, giving them a chance, ‘until they went home,’ to forget ‘they were in a tragedy.' The understanding of each-others plight allowed the children to be content in their ‘natural quarantine,’ while continuing to improve their condition fantastic- it is mutual tragedy that binds the children. Gives them a sense of belonging. Consider the "waterhole" metaphor London uses.. Fundamentally, it is the love from family, friend and acquaintances that encourages and allows these children to overcome the sudden tragedy of polio.

London’s text emphasises that it is possible to achieve out of adversityodd expression, not only with a meaningful vocation but also committed relationships with those around them. Through love from their family and friends especially, those within the novel are able to ‘find [their] feet’ both physically and mentallyI didn't sense this much throughout the essay. and achieve out of misfortune.