6. And Of Clay Are We Created

TASK ONE
Locate all references to distance (emotional and physical) in the text. How does the concept of distance change as the story progresses? How are these changes related to notions of subjectivity and objectivity? How do they relate to Rolf Carlé? To the narrator?

TASK TWO
What ironic contrasts can you find between Azucena's and Rolf Carlé's journeys in the story? What role does the theme of religion/spirituality play here?

TASK THREE
Comment on the role of photojournalism in the modern world.

4. Media and the erosion of values

TASK ONE
Murrow claims that "No body politic is healthy until it begins to itch" (226). Explain what he means in your own words. How can the media be instrumental in making us "itch"?

TASK TWO
Do you have a "plug-in drug"? (e.g. your mobile, laptop, iPod, etc.?) Do you see any danger in your dependence on this object, or do you see it as just a routine part of your life? Do you agree with Winn that TV is a "plug-in drug"?

TASK THREE
Rushdie's fear is that "our voyeurism will become more demanding" (241), leading to shows that will "feed our hunger for more action, more pain, more vicarious thrills" (241). Has this fear been realised in any way since this essay was published in 2001? Do you think Rushdie is correct to be alarmed, or do you think viewers will continue to be satisfied with the present level of thrills and action? Justify your answer with specific examples.

TASK FOUR
Write a summary of The Truman Show (maximum 50 words).