Subodh Bhattarai (English & Communication Notes - BBA/BBS/BBBS/BHM/BIM/BMS/MBA/MBS & +2)

  A Matter of Husbands   Ferenc Molnar   Translated by Benjamin Glazer   " A Matter of Husbands " is a one-act play written by Ferenc Molnár , a Hungarian playwright, and translated into English by Benjamin Glazer . The play is a clever and witty exploration of relationships, trust, and the nature of deception, all wrapped up in a lighthearted and comedic manner. Summary of the Play The play features only two characters: The Famous Actress : A confident, charming, and intelligent woman who is accustomed to being admired and desired. She is articulate, persuasive, and enjoys her power over others. The Earnest Young Woman : A naive (innocent), earnest (serious), and somewhat timid young woman, who is married and concerned about her husband’s fidelity (faithfulness). Her innocence makes her vulnerable to manipulation. Setting : The play is set in the drawing room of the Famous Actress’s apartment, which suggests a sense of luxury and sophistication. The setting is inti...

  Knowledge and Wisdom   Bertrand Russell   Bertrand Russell (1872–1970) was a British philosopher and logician known for his work in mathematical logic and analytic philosophy. He contributed to logicism, refined predicate calculus, and supported neutral monism (the theory that denies the existence of a duality in a particular sphere such as that between God and the world). He also developed theories of definite descriptions, logical atomism, and logical types. In his essay, Russell distinguishes between knowledge and wisdom. He says that knowledge is about acquiring information, while wisdom is about using that knowledge practically to create value. Wisdom comes from learning and experience, not just memorizing facts. Although we have more knowledge today than ever before, we haven't necessarily become wiser . Defining wisdom and finding ways to promote it can be challenging. First, let's consider what wisdom is and how it can be taught. Wisdom involves several elements...

Marriage as a Social Institution   Stephen L. Nock Steven L. Nock was a sociology professor at the University of Virginia who researched marriage and family issues. He wrote books and articles about how American families have changed, including topics like privacy, fatherhood, cohabitation, and divorce. His book, Marriage in Men's Lives , won a major award for its impact on family research. In this essay, Nock discusses the national marriage debate, focusing on how social and demographic trends have changed marriage and family roles. He believes marriage and parenthood are private matters, relevant only to the individuals involved. He also highlights programs that have improved marriage stability, reduced divorce rates, decreased births outside of marriage, and promoted responsible fatherhood. Marriage is more than just a partnership between two people; it's a relationship defined by legal, moral, and societal norms. These norms create rules that shape how marriages work and ma...

  On Libraries   Oliver Sacks   Oliver Sacks' essay " On Libraries " is a heartfelt tribute to the importance of intellectual freedom, community, and the joy of discovering something unexpected. Sacks, a renowned neurologist and author, reflects on how libraries shaped his mind and spirit throughout his life. Sacks' essay is a heartfelt reflection on the irreplaceable value of libraries and books, both in his own life and in society at large. He argues that digital books, while convenient, cannot replicate the profound experience of handling and reading a physical book, nor can they replace the centuries of knowledge contained within traditional libraries. As a child, Sacks was drawn to his family's home library, a large, oak-paneled room filled with books. This room was a special place for him, where his father, a Hebrew scholar, kept his books, and where the works of Ibsen, poets of his father's generation, and adventure books belonging to his older brothers...

  The poem " Soft Storm " by Abhi Subedi reflects on the chaos and turmoil in Nepalese society while also expressing hope and compassion. Written in free verse, the poem blends natural and social imagery, with the speaker observing the city of Kathmandu at night. On the surface, it seems to describe a journey through the city's narrow streets, but it carries a deeper message about the indifference of people towards the suffering and poor conditions of others.  The poem is a complex interplay of contrasting images and emotions, where the poet grapples (hand-to-hand struggle) with the harsh realities of the world while maintaining a delicate sensitivity. The title itself is paradoxical. A storm is typically associated with violence and destruction, while soft evokes gentleness and tranquility. This juxtaposition mirrors the poet's internal conflict as he witnesses the world's harshness yet responds with empathy and compassion. The poet undergoes a transformation. H...

  IN-DEPTH SUMMARY: " The Awakening Age " by Ben Okri is a poem that reflects deep themes of unity, hope, and the potential for a brighter future despite past and present hardships. Okri, a celebrated poet and storyteller, often writes about the struggles of African people, but his message here extends globally, calling for solidarity (unity) among all humans. O ye who travel the meridian line,   May the vision of a new world within you shine. This line addresses people who journey along the meridian (being at the best stage of development) line, a symbolic reference to those who traverse different parts of the world or who experience various challenges in life. Okri wishes that these travellers carry within them a vision of a better world, a world filled with new possibilities and hope. May eyes that have lived with poverty's rage,   See through to the glory of the awakening age. Here, Okri speaks to those who have experienced the harsh realities of poverty and anger. H...