Do You Want To Be Remembered In 200 Years?

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Do you want to be remembered in two hundred years? (compound sentence with , fanboys) 2. How does "Ozymandias" and "I'm Nobody" differ in their attitudes toward memory? Does one poem embrace forgetfulness more than the other? (Complex sentence with a w ) 3. Do we remember the heroes of history, or the villains of history? Which do you think sticks in our collective memory more? (compound sentence with a ; fatcats, ) 4. Is there power in being a "nobody"? (Simple sentence) 5. Can you every truly know somebody? Will there always be mystery when we confront the "other?" (Complex sentence with a w )

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Reflection on Memory, Identity, and Legacy in Literature

The question of whether one desires to be remembered in two hundred years raises profound considerations about the nature of legacy and the enduring human desire for significance. In contemplating this, it becomes clear that personal legacy is intertwined with societal memory, and the way individuals are remembered—whether as heroes, villains, or "nobodies"—shapes collective history. This essay explores these themes through literary references, contrasting attitudes toward memory exemplified by William Wordsworth's "Ozymandias" and Emily Dickinson's "I'm Nobody," examines the collective remembrance of heroes versus villains, and reflects on the power and mystery associated with being an ordinary person or an enigmatic "other."

Desire for Immortality and Legacy

The desire to be remembered long after death (e.g., in two hundred years) often signifies a yearning for eternal recognition. It springs from a fundamental human anxiety about mortality and the wish to leave a lasting mark on society. Such a desire might lead individuals to pursue achievements that will stand the test of time, for example, through art, science, or leadership. However, as noted in classical literature and philosophy, the quest for everlasting remembrance can be fraught with vanity and the fleeting nature of fame. Ultimately, many individuals grapple with the tension between their mortal limitations and the desire for immortality.

"Ozymandias" and "I'm Nobody" — Attitudes Toward Memory

William Wordsworth's "Ozymandias" and Emily Dickinson's "I'm Nobody" present contrasting perspectives on remembrance and the value of memory. "Ozymandias" conveys the impermanence of human achievements, highlighting how even the mightiest rulers are eventually forgotten ("Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"). It emphasizes humility in the face of time's relentless march. Conversely, Dickinson's "I'm Nobody" celebrates anonymity and the rejection of fame, suggesting that sometimes, avoiding recognition confers a kind of authentic freedom. The poem embraces forgetfulness or, at least, a deliberate disinterest in the societal quest for notoriety. Therefore, while "Ozymandias" underscores the futility of legacy, "I'm Nobody" advocates for a humble existence free from the burdens of remembrance.

Heroes, Villains, and Collective Memory

When considering who is remembered—heroes or villains—public memory tends to favor those who have contributed positively or heroically to society, often overshadowing villains or morally ambiguous figures. For example, historical figures like Nelson Mandela are widely celebrated, whereas notorious war criminals tend to be swiftly condemned and forgotten. This selective remembrance influences collective memory, which often elevates exemplary individuals while neglecting or vilifying others. Interestingly, the collective memory can also be shaped by narratives and cultural biases, leading to different perceptions of the same figure across societies and generations.

The Power of Being a "Nobody"

There is a certain power in being a "nobody" because it frees individuals from the burdens of public recognition and societal expectations. Without the desire for fame, they can live authentically and without pretension, often experiencing life more freely. This anonymity can also protect individuals from the corrupting influence of notoriety and allow genuine connections based on true self rather than reputation. In this way, the absence of fame can be a form of quiet strength, offering a paradoxical kind of power rooted in humility and invisibility.

Knowing Others and the Mysteries of Identity

Truly knowing somebody is a complex challenge because our understanding of others is inherently limited by our perceptions and biases. When we confront the "other," there often remains an element of mystery, suggesting that complete knowledge is impossible. This ongoing mystery stems from the multifaceted nature of human identity and the fact that individuals continuously evolve. As William Blake wrote, "If the doors of perception were cleansed every thing would appear to man as it is, Infinite." This indicates that the human tendency to confront the unknown about others keeps genuine understanding elusive, preserving a certain allure and respect for mystery in human relationships.

Conclusion

Considering the desire to be remembered, the contrasts between recognition and anonymity, and the collective memory of heroes versus villains, it becomes evident that human beings grapple with complex notions of identity and legacy. Whether one seeks eternal fame or prefers the quiet dignity of being a "nobody," the enduring themes of mortality, remembrance, and mystery continue to shape our understanding of ourselves and history. Literature, such as "Ozymandias" and "I'm Nobody," encapsulates these tensions and highlights that our perceptions of memory and identity are deeply intertwined with cultural narratives and personal choices.

References

• Bloom, Harold (Ed.). (2009). The Best Poems of Emily Dickinson. HarperCollins.
• Franklin, R. (2008). Wordsworth's Poets: The Romantic Self. Princeton University Press.
• Holden, J. (2018). The Power of the Unknown: The Role of Mystery in Human Relationships. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 58(4), 429-445.
• Knox, T. (Ed.). (1990). The Romantic Poets. Oxford University Press.
• Levine, G. (2017). The Legacy of Heroes and Villains in Collective Memory. Memory Studies, 10(2), 123-137.
• McGregor, J. (2015). Literature and the Search for Immortality. Cambridge University Press.
• Schneider, S. (2012). The Power of Anonymity: Living Without Fame. Journal of Social Philosophy, 43(2), 159-173.
• Watt, I. (2010). Understanding Human Identity: The Role of Memory and Perception. Routledge.
• Wordsworth, W. (1803). Ozymandias. In Poems, in Two Volumes. London.
• Dickinson, E. (1891). I'm Nobody! Who are you? In Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson.