My eye has been convinced to buy....

The concept of a visual argument is by no means a new one. The study of visual arguments however, is fairly new. The author, Blair, breaks things down in a simple but often overlooked manner. A visual argument is simply that. an argument (or idea) in a visual form. This may seem simple (because it is), but the point is well seen. His combination of two broad terms makes it virtually impossible to deny the existence of visual arguments. In my mind, ads would be the obvious culprit, and for a large part... they are. The authors definition however, expands to include nearly all forms of intentional visual media if not more. Everything has a purpose or meaning that can be expressed through images. While much of these arguments are dependent upon adequate socialization he is right for the most part. He should further address two issues however. First off would be the perception of visual arguments. If the argument is not perceived correctly (as intended) is it still an argument? Secondly, if one is blind, do visual arguments exist? Beyond these two points, Blair exceeds my expectations to create a compelling argument through a different visual medium... Words...

Who names their kid Gunther?

This article was back to the old boring style, but the author still manages to make some excellent points. Gunther makes several interesting observations and tries to redefine genre. While my perception of genre remains relatively unchanged, it is easy to see where Gunther is coming from. The genres are defined by the joining of different modes(of media). He is quite outspoken about the subject to the point where he seems to rant but at least has the sense to give a clear call to action. Gunther informs the audience that his analysis can benefit the education system and future generations. While many writers or their pieces fail to impress or even attempt to impress an idea upon a person, Gunther is able to succeed on this regard. This may seem unimportant, but the fact that I can remember what he is trying to achieve is better than a piece that fades into my memory.

McCloud and Horn: Images that Preach?

First off, I really enjoyed McCloud's piece as it is more engaging and visual than a traditional reading.(obviously) That being said, I have encountered his work before. Excerpts from this very reading in fact. The medium however continues to prove his points despite my previous encounters with it. I find it interesting that he believes cartoons are not simple, but just more focused on what they need to show. In a way it is like poetry. But whereas poetry is "saying more with less" to allow for interpretation, comics limit in a way that narrows perception to create a message. It can be a very strong tool as McCloud (literally) illustrates in his piece. His argument is so persuasive, I would say the only reason comics are not used more is their public image. Furthermore, the way he writes is convincing and seems to push you out of your comfort zone by engaging you so completely. It is kinda wierd in an existensialist way but the points are well seen. The Horn piece speaks about the power of the image as well, but does so in a more straightforward way. Images are far from the very literal pieces of paper they start as and the various abstract examples serve his point well. Pictures not only are worth 1000 words, they are also an intentional message by nature it would seem. In a "V for Vendetta" sort of logic, the pictures and images become ideas which are far more important than we initially realize.

Literacy, an evolution of ideas

This piece, besides being very boring, dealt with the evolution of literacies as the are seen today in an increasingly technology dependent world. I find it interesting that literacy in modern terminology originated with the growth of industry. It would seem that many of our current values derived from such pursuits of wealth. All in all, quite intriguing. Furthermore, the term "literacy" is reapplied to old and even defunct technologies by the author. It is like the meaning always existed but we never had a word for it. Literacy. Is it the ability to manipulate a technology or something more? One thing remains certain. Literacy has become an integral part of the modern world

Multimedia Blending

This Article seemed to focus most on the blending of media that has taken place more and more commonly. Media has transformed dramatically in recent years, and continues to do so in new and inventive ways. The author of this article however leaves us there. There are no real conclusions drawn, just the observation of change. If anything this article is simply meant to draw awareness to the many media and literacy we often ignore. All in all the article was good but I wish the author would take the next step and give us the "why" of the issue. As a reader I can make my own conclusion about the matter but I wish the author would tell us his. All to often authors forget to tell why their work is relevant.