Nothing says it’s Christmas like watching Die Hard. Yes, the 1988 film starring Bruce Willis is absolutely a Christmas film. It’s set on Christmas Eve, features sleigh bells in its soundtrack, and has Willis crawling through tight spaces not unlike chimneys to deliver justice to those naughty listers trying to rob the place. Oh, and the small matter of him saving Christmas for a whole bunch of people just so he can spend Christmas day with his wife. What’s not Christmassy about that? So, for a bit of an ‘out-there’ recommendation for a Christmas book, why not the bestseller that was the basis for the blockbuster film?
High atop a Los Angeles skyscraper, an office Christmas party turns into a deadly cage match between a lone New York City cop and a gang of international terrorists. They’ve taken hostages, issued demands, and promised bloodshed all according to plan. But they haven’t counted on a death-defying, one-man cavalry with no shoes, no backup, and no intention of going down easily.
Nothing Lasts Forever may not seem like a traditional Christmas tale, but its holiday setting and themes make it an unexpectedly compelling festive read. Set during a Christmas Eve party in a Los Angeles skyscraper, the novel uses the holiday backdrop to heighten the emotional stakes and create a unique blend of suspense, action, and reflection.
At its heart, Christmas is about family, forgiveness, and redemption—all of which are key elements of the story. No McClane this time around, in the novel it’s the much less quippy Joe Leland who comes to Los Angeles to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Stephanie. His journey to save her from terrorists becomes a symbolic battle for their fractured relationship, mirroring the redemptive arcs of classic Christmas tales. The Christmas setting also adds a bit of irony and contrast. Cheerful decorations, festive music, and the holiday spirit are juxtaposed with violence and chaos, creating a tension that’s quite poignant—nobody wants to see Christmas ruined, after all.
Moreover, the novel’s introspective tone aligns with the reflective nature of Christmas. Joe’s struggle isn’t just physical; it’s an emotional reckoning with his past failures and his mortality. He’s not just fighting for his life here but for a better future and reconciliation with his daughter. These universal themes resonate deeply during a time when we like to look inward and seek a bit of connection over the holidays. We may have to drive for miles to make that connection, while bullets measure Leland’s struggle.
It’s also important to note that this novel is very much a product of its time and serves as an exercise in examining how tastes change. This was written in the ‘70s, when terrorism very much became mainstream with the Munich massacre, and Leland’s disdain for women terrorists raises an interesting point on just how views on gender have shifted in the past fifty years.
For those who prefer their Christmas stories with an edge, Nothing Lasts Forever offers a gritty alternative to sugary holiday narratives. Its mix of action, emotional depth, and holiday symbolism creates a thrilling, thought-provoking read that balances the holiday’s light and dark aspects.
Whether you’re drawn to its unconventional Christmas spirit or its tense, page-turning plot, this novel delivers a holiday experience unlike any other. Sadly though, there is a distinct lack of ‘yippee-ki-yay’s.
If you are interested in studying English or English Literature, Oxford Open Learning offer the chance to do so at several levels, linked below. You can also Contact Us.
From its early beginnings, education and teaching have been a way to preserve cultural values and knowledge. Today, the education system has become more globalised, with students increasingly exposed to other cultures and views that play an important part in shaping individual identities, and how their roles fit into our modern society.
Cultural representation within curriculum subjects such as literature, history and art is important to help nurture student identities and broaden their understanding of the world. Without inclusivity, students from marginalised backgrounds may feel alienated or underrepresented which can lead to the reinforcement of inequality.
Language can have a profound impact on a student’s cultural identity, influencing how they see themselves and embrace other cultures. In countries where students’ mother tongue is taught, it helps to preserve traditions and nurtures their sense of heritage. Studies have shown that students taught in their mother tongue perform better academically at an early age. If, however, only dominant languages are used, students may face linguistic displacement that promotes the erosion of indigenous heritages.
The accounts and case studies of which cultures’ stories are told and which ones are marginalised help form an understanding of cultural histories and shape how students see their own identity. Including diversity in historical narratives can help foster empathy and understanding while a focus on individual history can lead to a singular, limited view of the world.
Globalisation, international schools and migration have led to a blending of cultures, where education which embodies multiple cultural elements can help expose students to multiple viewpoints and adopt multicultural traditions, leading to a greater global understanding.
Education is often a powerful driver for social change. New cultural movements and ideas can help shape the material taught within schools to challenge traditional views, promote equality and foster critical thinking. This provides students with the tools they need to become informed in areas of gender equality and of economic differences that can shape ideologies and create inclusive communities. An example of this can be seen in the inclusion of the recent Black Lives Matter movement in some school curricula subjects such as history and sociology. This helps to bring current and relevant issues to the forefront, to enable awareness and inspire discussions on racial inequality and modern activism.
Some of the key challenges to multicultural education lie in the fact that many curricula are rooted in dominant cultural narratives. This can sometimes be down to a lack of teacher training or resources to teach diverse classrooms, or because institutions can view multicultural initiatives as unimportant. It can be complicated to ensure that teaching materials and methods are non-biased and do not reinforce stereotypes.
If you would like to study Sociology, Oxford Open Learning offer the chance to do so at GCSE and A level, with course pages linked below. You can also Contact Us.
October half-term is the perfect time to take a break from the hustle of daily routines, enjoy autumn’s beauty, and spend quality time with family and friends. With Halloween festivities and the crisp, colourful weather, this is a great opportunity to embrace the season’s charm while keeping kids entertained. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or creative indoor activities, here are some fantastic ideas to make the most of the October half-term.
Visiting a pumpkin patch is a quintessential autumn activity that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Many farms across the UK open their fields for pumpkin picking in October, offering a fun day out where you can choose the perfect pumpkin to carve for Halloween. Many pumpkin patches also host other activities, such as tractor rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. Don’t forget to snap a few seasonal photos to capture the magic of autumn!
Top Tip: Check local farms for pre-booking requirements, as pumpkin patches can get busy during the half-term.
With the leaves turning golden and the crisp air setting in, October is one of the best months for enjoying the UK’s stunning natural landscapes. Take a trip to a nearby national park or woodland for a peaceful family hike, picnic, or wildlife spotting. Autumn is the perfect time for collecting conkers, pine cones, and colourful leaves to use in seasonal crafts later.
Where to go: The New Forest, Peak District, or Sherwood Forest are all fantastic for autumn walks.
Many attractions across the UK embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween with special events that range from family-friendly fun to haunted house experiences for older kids and teens. From ghost tours and haunted castles to pumpkin trails and fancy dress parties, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the Halloween spirit.
Where to find Halloween events: Check your local museums, stately homes, and theme parks for Halloween activities. Some, like Warwick Castle, have special Halloween experiences with spooky trails and stories.
For families with a love of outdoor sports, half-term is an excellent time to try an adventurous activity. Many outdoor centres offer everything from climbing, abseiling, and archery to paddle boarding and canoeing. Adventure parks and activity centres often run special half-term sessions where kids can learn new skills or try something new in a safe, supervised environment.
Great outdoor activity centres: Go Ape locations across the UK are ideal for tree-top climbing and zip-lining, while centres like PGL or local adventure parks offer multi-activity days.
The UK’s rich history offers a wide range of fascinating historical sites and castles to explore. Many of these places run special half-term activities for families, such as themed treasure hunts, costume days, or living history demonstrations. Visiting a castle or historic house is not only a great way to learn about history but also a chance to explore stunning grounds and gardens.
Top sites to visit: Windsor Castle, Tower of London, and Edinburgh Castle are popular, while lesser-known gems like Bodiam Castle and Kenilworth Castle often host half-term events.
If the weather isn’t on your side, a visit to a museum or science centre can provide an educational and exciting day out. Many museums across the UK offer free entry and have interactive exhibits that are perfect for children. Check if your local museum is offering any half-term workshops, craft activities, or temporary exhibitions that might pique the interest of curious minds.
Family-friendly museums: The Natural History Museum and the Science Museum in London are firm favourites, while the Eden Project in Cornwall and the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester are excellent alternatives.
For a creative day indoors, why not try some autumn-inspired arts and crafts? Leaf printing, pumpkin carving, and making Halloween decorations are great ways to get into the seasonal spirit. You can collect natural materials like leaves, acorns, and pinecones from a nearby park or forest to use in your projects. Baking Halloween-themed treats like spooky cookies or toffee apples is another way to make the day special.
Craft ideas: Make autumn wreaths, paint pine cones, or create spooky garlands to hang around the house.
Autumn is a wonderful time to see wildlife, as many animals prepare for winter. Whether you visit a wildlife reserve, zoo, or a local nature reserve, half-term is a great chance for kids to learn about nature. Many wildlife centres offer guided walks, bird-watching sessions, or even bat walks, where you can discover nocturnal creatures in a safe environment.
Top wildlife parks: Visit Longleat Safari Park or Woburn Safari Park for an exciting animal adventure, or take a quieter trip to a wildlife reserve like RSPB Minsmere or Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
Many theatres across the country put on special performances for children and families during the October half-term. Whether it’s a magical pantomime, a musical, or a puppet show, catching a live performance is a fantastic way to introduce children to the arts and enjoy a cosy afternoon together. Check your local theatre for family-friendly performances, including adaptations of popular books and films.
Theatres to watch: The West End in London offers big productions, while local theatres often have affordable, charming shows perfect for younger audiences.
Many theme parks across the UK go all out for Halloween, offering special spooky events alongside their usual rides and attractions. Some parks feature haunted mazes, scare zones, and Halloween-themed parades. These parks cater to various age groups, with milder activities for younger children and scarier thrills for teens and adults.
Theme parks to try: Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, and LEGOLAND Windsor offer Halloween events perfect for a family day out.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective activity, why not create your own treasure hunt at home? You can make it Halloween-themed, with clues leading to hidden treats or spooky surprises. Tailor the difficulty to suit the age of your children, and let them solve puzzles or follow maps to find hidden treasures. This can be a brilliant way to engage their imagination and keep them entertained indoors.
For a relaxing day at home, plan a cosy movie marathon. You can theme it around Halloween with spooky-but-not-too-scary films for younger kids or pick a family-favourite series like Harry Potter. Create a cinema experience by making popcorn, dimming the lights, and letting everyone choose their favourite film.
Movie ideas: The Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Pocus, or Coco are great autumnal options.
October half-term offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best of autumn, whether that’s embracing the season’s natural beauty, indulging in Halloween festivities, or spending quality time indoors. With a range of activities that cater to every interest and budget, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this break and create lasting memories with your family.
There are many subjects related to activities available for half-term. You can find them at the top of Oxford Open Learning’s Home Page by clicking on ‘Courses’. There are a variety of levels you can choose to study at for most subjects. You can also Contact Us for more information.
We all debate most days in some form. This is especially true for teens, who spend much of their time contesting topics with either peers or parents!
It may also be true to say that the state of public discourse is in tatters. There’s endless amounts of vitriol flooding into cyberspace, as well as inflammatory statements made by those who are supposed to have the coolest heads and most sensible outlooks. Where do you fit into this picture? Well, it’s important to watch how people settle their differences. There’s much you can discover about them, yourself, and the art of agreeing to disagree maturely. Let’s explore this in more detail. Here’s what you can learn from watching a debate.
Many people look for authenticity in a debate. Particularly during political debates, many voters look for the human being behind the politician. They won’t find them. Not everybody understands that where there’s an audience, there’s a performance. Nobody is in their natural element on a debate stage, with a microphone, speaking to swathes of people across an array of backgrounds. Debaters will be periodically reading from scripts prepared by committee, and even wearing makeup!
One could argue nobody is their authentic self when debating online, either. You’ve probably heard of ‘keyboard warriors’, and it’s because it’s easier to appear smart by text, anonymously, than it is in-person with the spoken word. All of this to say – there’s a performance element involved in debating. Debaters must speak persuasively, project loudly, and stand confidently. Enunciation must be clear, and sentences should have punch. Even a mumbled word can spark doubt in a debate. They must be comfortable being judged. Ultimately, it’s vital to key in on language in a debate, both spoken and in body. Debates are not just about what is said, but the way things are said.
You’ve likely heard the old mantra ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail’. That saying rarely rings more truly than on the debate stage.
There is a place for opinion in debates. However, subjective viewpoints are supposed to be backed up by objective data. Debaters must present their take on a topic, but reinforce each with statistics, credible research, and even historical record where relevant. That way, it’s easier to see how their remarks are a missing piece of a puzzle.
Are the debaters you’re watching able to recite key data? Moreover, do they do this to credibly reinforce their point, or to overwhelm and confuse their opponents? Which resources did they choose to recite, and what does that say about them? Is their source up to date on current issues? How debaters wield data can be extremely telling about them. There’s such a thing as over-preparing too. Debaters who can’t go off-script and improvise to counter their opponent will stumble and fail. The key is to know your stuff, but not over-rely on it.
It’s fair to say that the quality of debates in modern times is steadily decreasing. Even past, present, and potential world leaders struggle to argue their points with class and cohesion. By watching others debate, you can try to identify whether they’re engaging in mindless bickering or approaching each other in good faith. The latter avenue is essential for a productive and meaningful discussion. Debates are not about ‘looking clever’ or making the other person ‘look dumb’. They’re supposed to be about an exchange of ideas. Being open-minded enough to engage with another’s point of view, before presenting one’s own. It’s for others to decide who the winner is, not the participants. By being able to identify who’s more interested in name calling, point scoring, and lying, you can start to understand who the real losers in a debate are. Successful debaters don’t bully.
It’s okay to lose a debate. If you debate people long enough, it will happen. Regularly. How one deals with that defeat is crucial. It can tell you whether that person debated to satisfy their ego and settle personal vendettas, or whether they truly care about the larger issues discussed on the debate stage. It’s okay to have flawed opinions, or to be proven wrong on issues raised. What matters is clarity and enlightenment and using a debate to try and reach some kind of consensus. A good debate is an education, and everyone benefits from that. Debates are always a learning opportunity, even for the loser.
Of course, the world is complicated and messy too. Sometimes, common ground can’t always be reached by the end of a debate. That’s okay. But, even then, what debaters can do is shake hands and agree to continue the discourse until resolutions are found. Hopefully, there’s much you can glean from that, in terms of remaining cordial and preventing escalation.
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There aren’t many people who claim they enjoy giving presentations. It’s certainly not everybody’s cup of tea. However, the presentation is a powerful tool. They allow people to share their ideas without interruption. The presenter can also argue their points while being backed up with data and intriguing findings, too, making their efforts at persuasion far more effective.
Of course, homeschooled pupils like yourself can face different challenges here too. Public speaking skills can be hard to practice if you’re learning frequently involves one-on-one study. Now let’s talk about all of this in more detail. Here are a few ways to improve your presentation skills!
Some people can get too caught up in what they’re talking about instead of who they’re talking to. It’s an easy trap to fall into when you’re giving a presentation. You might find that your presentation ‘really comes together’ when you start tailoring it for your audience.
While you’re preparing, ask yourself:
Who is assessing me, and what am I specifically being assessed on?
Why is my audience here?
Am I expected to be formal or informal?
How much time have I been given to speak?
If you don’t know the answers to these questions, ask ahead of time. Doing so will give you insights into your audience and help you tailor your presentation to their needs. It can also help you with your nerves and help you get out of your own head; the presentation isn’t about you, but your audience.
Try to remember everyone is on your side, too. As you can probably guess, no one wants to sit through a bad, boring presentation. So, they are rooting for you!
To some degree, giving a presentation is a performance. After all, not many stand at the front of a room to monologue to people for fun. Therefore, it’s a good idea to try and pay closer attention to your body language and what it communicates. Remember, there is a science to body language, and people can read into that as much as anything you might say during your presentation.
Instead of crossing your arms and putting your hands in your pockets, use them to gesture as you speak, whether to animatedly talk or direct your audience’s attention to findings of interest. Stand tall and proud, and be sure to smile, too!
These might seem like elementary points to make, but they’re easily forgotten in the build up to, and during, a presentation. When you have these basic principles down, you will feel more confident in your presentation and put your audience at ease, meaning you all get more out of the experience.
While we can all build up presentations in our head sometimes, the structure of them is typically very simple. It’s important not to make more out of it than it needs to be.
Nobody likes to be overwhelmed with information. So, with that in mind, remember to:
Keep the written parts of your presentation concise. Use bullet points and simple language to convey your points clearly.
Talk around the written parts of your presentation. Use the text as prompts that you can elaborate on with speech, creating a stronger connection between what is seen and what is heard. Do not just read what is written verbatim, or your in-person role is redundant.
Find the flow in your presentation. One part of your presentation should lead to the next, helping you and your audience better organise the information in your heads.
There’s no need to get carried away and present a jumble of ideas. Each presentation should be a straightforward journey.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these tips should not only enhance your presentation skills and thereby your presentations, but also ensure you actually enjoy the experience too. After all, you’re simply sharing knowledge, when all is said and done. The people who come prepared and share their findings cheerfully will create a good time for all, so give it your best shot.
If you have an interest in studying Psychology, Oxford Open Learning offer you the chance to do so at GCSE and A level, with further details available via the links below. You can also Contact Us directly.
In a world where adulting often feels like a never-ending series of responsibilities, there’s something wonderfully refreshing about settling down with a good children’s film. But beyond mere entertainment, recent studies have shown that these films can offer a wealth of benefits for grown-ups too. Let’s explore the science-backed reasons why watching children’s films might just be the self-care you didn’t know you needed.
Research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that watching nostalgic content, including children’s films, can increase feelings of well-being and life satisfaction. A 2020 study showed that 76% of adults who regularly watched children’s films reported lower stress levels and improved mood.
A study conducted by the University of Cambridge revealed that adults who watched emotionally complex children’s films showed a 15% improvement in emotional recognition and empathy skills. Films like Inside Out offer brilliant metaphors for understanding and managing our emotions, benefiting viewers of all ages.
Neurological research from the University of Southampton suggests that nostalgia, often triggered by children’s films, can have positive effects on brain function. The study found that nostalgic experiences increased activity in the areas of the brain associated with autobiographical memory and reward, potentially improving cognitive function and mood.
A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that 82% of adults who regularly watch children’s films reported gaining valuable life lessons and insights. From the importance of friendship in Toy Story to the power of perseverance in Finding Nemo, these films remind us of fundamental truths that we sometimes forget in the hustle and bustle of adult life.
A long-term study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that families who regularly watched children’s films together reported stronger emotional connections and improved communication. The shared experience created opportunities for meaningful conversations about the themes and messages in the films.
Research published in the Creativity Research Journal showed that adults exposed to imaginative content, such as children’s films, experienced a 23% increase in creative problem-solving abilities. The whimsical worlds in these films can reignite our own creativity and inspire innovative thinking.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that watching light-hearted content, including children’s films, led to a significant decrease in cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in adults. Participants reported feeling more relaxed and refreshed after viewing sessions.
The scientific evidence is clear: children’s films offer more than just entertainment for adults. They provide a unique combination of emotional, cognitive and social benefits that can significantly improve our well-being. So, the next time you’re scrolling through your streaming service, don’t shy away from the kids’ section. Embrace the magic, humour and heart of children’s cinema. You might just find it’s exactly what you need to brighten your day, soothe your soul, and remind you of the simple joys in life. After all, as Walt Disney once said, “That’s the real trouble with the world. Too many people grow up.”
If you are interested in studying Psychology, Oxford Open Learning offer the chance to do so at GCSE and A level, with further details available by clicking on the respective links below. You can also Contact Us.
The world of media is rapidly evolving, and never before have so many had access to so much; the touch of a button can connect millions of people, places, things and ideas. While access to such a plethora of perspectives can be nourishing, engaging and educational, sometimes it’s simply overwhelming. Mixed messages, fake news and cat-fishing are just some of the drawbacks that come to mind, but a discerning eye and a critical approach can enable us to decipher the media muddle we’re confronted with.
Identifying the true source, author, or voice of the content is imperative. By knowing where content originates, we can understand more about its true intention and whether there is any possible bias. If the author is difficult to identify, this might signal the source is not reliable, whereas tracing names, references and further links (and even cross referencing these yourself) will help to ensure you know where the content comes from. You can then take a more objective view of its credibility.
The style of communication can tell us a lot about the nature of the content. Most media is looking for an audience, and grabbing attention is one key way to ensure views, likes, clicks, shares, or any kind of response. Take a critical perspective of language, imagery, music, or themes, which all will have been crafted to appeal to a particular audience. Clickbait is a classic example of using buzzwords and big headlines, or dramatic (and sometimes heavily edited) imagery, to evoke your interest, curiosity and fascination, even if there’s no substance behind it.
The motivation for particular messaging in particular styles is important. Even if the source is credible, and accurately presented, think carefully about the reason why the content was created and published. The subtext is implied by the content, rather than explicitly stated, and in this often lies the true meaning behind it. By identifying the subtext, we can interpret the message based on our own individual views and expectations, which are different for everybody.
The media outlet can say a lot about the content itself. Taking a view on the publishing platform is important, because it may only present particular viewpoints or perspectives which support an agenda. The most obvious example here is political – we, the public, understand that certain publications may be biased towards a particular political party, which will undoubtedly impact the content it publishes. Therefore, we must maintain a critical perspective when examining content from different sources.
While the media monster is persistently present in our lives, it is possible to prevent some of its more poisonous tentacles from reaching too far into our psyches. A simple checklist can remind us to take a little extra care when reading, watching, listening or scrolling, so that our fundamental truths remains strong.
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“Endings are also beginnings. We just don’t know it at the time.” A wonderful line from The Five People You Meet In Heaven, an equally wonderful novel by Mitch Albom. He makes a great point, as while an ending’s job is to close out the story, it forms the platform for a new chapter when done right. It is similar to the end of exams and getting your results, which is the ending of a phase in your life in which you’ve spent a long time working hard, studying, and growing as a person; With that conclusion, you then have the growth of character and the life tools to embark on something new.
Good endings in stories are important for that very reason. Those closing moments leave a lasting impression on you as the reader. Whilst you may have enjoyed the journey with all its twists and turns and highs and lows, if it doesn’t stick the landing and ends up with a failing grade, you’ll be left wondering why you invested all that time and effort.
So whether you’re writing a short story, or looking to get your teeth into penning a novel, here are some tips to help you nail that ending, make it effective, keep it unique and above all else—make it memorable for all the right reasons.
It’s always good to have a rough idea of how things are going to turn out when you’re first planning your story. That doesn’t mean to have the ending set in stone before you begin, because that’s not how writing works. Over the course of writing your story, you’ll get to know your characters and—as cliché as this sounds—they’ll start to write themselves to an extent. Changes will occur in it but with a resolution of your character’s arc in mind (specifically how they have grown and changed as a result of the story) you can see if your ending actually shows that change. If it doesn’t, the bad news is it needs a rewrite. If it does, make sure it feels earned.
You were probably wondering that, right? ‘Earning’ your ending is about putting your characters through the right kind of obstacles to reach the ending, and having that ending pay off in the right way.
If you have a shy character who hates confrontation, and your story reaches its climax with that character confronting someone, that needs to be earned. That character can’t just miraculously start standing up for themselves, they need to build up to it. Start small: encouraged by friends, having to answer the phone or to go out and be social, and steadily build the stakes (and your character’s confidence) to get to this point. Keep checking your character too. Make sure their actions and dialogue are consistent throughout your story.
Too many films, books and stories in general seem to have an issue with pacing when it comes to endings. No sooner is the problem solved do the credits roll or you run out of pages to read. Don’t be like those stories, as they can leave your readers feeling short changed. You’ve taken the time to build up to your ending and resolution, be sure to take the time to bask in the fruits of your labour.
Avoid throwing in any new characters towards the end, and give those characters who exist in your story the time and space they need. If in the first draft you’re feeling the need to rush your ending… stop yourself. It’s a good sign: it means that you’re invested in your own story and want to get it down as quickly as possible so you can see how things turn out. But that’s never good for quality. Take yourself away from it and return to it the next day. That anticipation of getting back to it will not only help your quality of writing, but will also do wonders for your consistency and writing stamina too. If you’re rushing because of a deadline and you’ve left things until the night before, however, it’s too late for you.
And don’t worry about word counts, that comes later in the redraft when you tidy things up and trim the fat.
Redraft to make it look like you meant it all along. Add some subtle moments to foreshadow what is coming to add substance to your ending. The more savvy readers may cotton on to what you’re setting up, but regardless those who had a clue and those who were clueless will feel equally as satisfied with the ending, as the former get to feel clever at guessing what was coming, while the latter will just enjoy its conclusion.
Once you’ve got your manuscript finished, redrafted, redrafted again, a third time, edited, spellchecked and edited, you’re ready. Right? Wrong.
Next up, you need to get it out there into the hands of some beta readers. These are people who will read early drafts of stories and give feedback on characters, plot, what works and what doesn’t. And if there are any plot holes too. In your case, family, friends, teachers, or whoever you can get your hands on will do. The feedback they give you will be invaluable as to where your story’s strengths lay and where it needs rewriting or tweaking. It might be the case that you need to cut entire sections—or characters!—and that is okay. That’s just part of writing.
That’s about it for tips, but if you put these to good use, you’ll have a pretty solid story on your hands. And like Albom said, while this article is coming to an end (hopefully in a very satisfying way) it is also the beginning of something too: you writing the perfect ending to that story you’re going to write.
While long, hot summer days may be few and far between in the UK, the sunny season often evokes the desire, or intention, to escape. While escapism may take a different form for each individual, research suggests that people prefer to delve into a good book, rather than go to the cinema, or browse social media (Publishers Association 2023). So, what compels us to turn pages, even with the multitude of multi-media at our fingertips?
In our somewhat ironic universe, the origins of great, riveting literature often lie in fear on a collective scale. It is thought that ‘escapism’ emerged from society’s fluctuating and evolving fears and anxieties, marking a transition from literally escaping physical danger, to an ideological concept from the 1930s onwards. Terms such as ‘anxiety’, ‘claustrophobia’, and ‘paranoia’ are all referenced as common cultural emotions which motivate the urge to escape. As awareness of society’s collective consciousness grew, so did the notion of escapism as ‘taking flight from reality’ (Heilmen 1975). Thus, with contemporary society littered with instant news, is it surprising that populations have continued to use literature and its universality (as opposed to other technologies) as a mode of escaping reality? Perhaps not.
Particularly, there are so many texts themselves which explore the theme of escapism; characters and settings we can relate to on an existential level can be the most absorbing. Tennessee Williams, for instance, is argued to portray ordinary, American families whose suffering reflects his own life experiences, and consequently creates imaginary worlds to escape his reality (Aiaqeel 2016). It is these imaginary worlds which readers worldwide find irresistible.
What’s more, the lure of escapist literature is only enhanced by the introduction of hope. If escapist literature is to remedy feelings of fear and anxiety, it must provide us readers with its antithesis: a sense of hope. Segal (2024) recommends several books to escape ‘overrated’ real life, where texts with an ‘immersive loveliness’ enable true escape. That does not mean to say escapist literature must over-emphasise positivity.
In contrast, those texts which uplift and immerse us the most are those which include some ascent for the protagonist; a problem, a journey, and hopefully, a solution (or the possibility of one). Let’s take Bronte’s Jane Eyre, for instance. Its dark, feminist themes portray the somewhat misaligned fates of Jane and Mr. Rochester, whose relationship is a passionate but complicated one, with several casualties along the way. Yet it remains a classic, haunted romance and a superb example of escapist literature.
The timeless notion of such texts is what makes readers feel books are superior to other materials in escaping reality. Whatever way you choose to escape your own reality from time to time, it is a their ability to transport us to planets, people, and psyches distant from our own that is found only in the pages of a book.
References:
How We Escape It: An Essay – JSTOR Daily
(PDF) Escaping Reality in Tennessee Williams’s The Glass Menagerie (1944), A Streetcar Named Desire (1947), and Cat On A Hot Tin Roof (1956) | SMART M O V E S J O U R N A L IJELLH – Academia.edu
Five of the best escapist books – The Guardian
One in three say books offer best form of escapism when having a bad day – The Guardian
It’s World Heritage Day on the 18th of April. So, let’s shine a light on some of the UK’s most well-known heritage sites.
Stonehenge is perhaps one of the most iconic sites in Britain. Located in Wiltshire, the prehistoric stone circle is estimated to date back to 3100 BCE and was most probably built as a monument site for worship. Today, the site receives an estimated 1 million visitors each year.
Dating back to 122 CE, Hadrian’s Wall was built as a Roman defence against the ‘barbarians’ in the north of Britannia. It stretches from Wallsend on the River Tyne in the east of northern England to Bowness-on-Solway in the west. The wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
Located in Warwickshire, Kenilworth Castle is famous as the home of Robert Dudley, the (supposed) lover of Queen Elizabeth I. However, the castle predates Dudley, who only occupied it from 1563, by a few hundred years. The original castle was founded in the 1120s.
Overlooking The Channel, Dover Castle in Kent is one of the largest castles in England. As well as attracting many visitors each year, this castle has also been used as a location for a number of film and TV productions including Doctor Who, Into The Woods, and Avengers: Age of Ultron.
The Giant’s Causeway is an area of volcanic rock columns found on the coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The rock formations are said to be between 50 and 60 million years old and, according to Gaelic legend, the area is the remains of a road built by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill so that he could cross the North Channel to meet Scottish giant Benandonner for a fight.
Also known as Holy Island, Lindisfarne is a tidal island (when the tide goes out it can be reached by land) off the coast of Northumberland that has been an important Christian site since the 6th century. Lindisfarne is perhaps most famous as the site of the first Viking raid on Britain in 793 CE – an event which kickstarted a long series of Viking invasions in Britain.
Also known as the Palace of Westminster, the grade 1 listed Gothic building serves as the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It is thought that the site of the Palace, along the bank of the River Thames in London, has been used as a meeting place and residence for England’s rulers since the 11th century.
Built between 1705 and 1722, Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is most well-known as the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Despite being open to the public, and receiving around 950,000 visitors last year, the palace remains the home of the current Duke of Marlborough.
This is the site of one of the most famous battles in England’s history – the battle during which King Harold of England was defeated by the invading French leader, William, Duke of Normandy. William is now perhaps more widely known as William the Conqueror. After the battle, William had the Abbey built at the place of Harold’s death.
Located off the coast of North Cornwall, Tintagel Castle has long been associated with the legends of King Arthur. It is likely that the area surrounding the castle, the Tintagel Peninsula, had been occupied since the 1st century, but the ruined castle that stands there now upon a rocky islet wasn’t built until 1233. If you visit, you will see that the castle is very much a dramatic sight to behold.
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