Sharon's Tenth Reaction

       I thought we hit numerous key points during discussion today, particularly the idea that people inherently want to destroy the ‘beautiful and sublime’ simply because they can; it gives them a sense of control and superiority. One thing that I found interesting was the narrator’s immediate sadness or shame, but then happiness in the long-term, after the act of destructing something; like Raoul, I felt that my reaction would be reversed –initial pride followed by disappointment instead.

        I also thought Alexa’s reaction to the generalizations helped prove a point and validated the narrator’s beliefs. In the end, it all comes down to self-interest –people are willing to accept whatever when it comes down to a topic that doesn’t involve themselves. On the other hand, even if the evidence and facts are there, it is easy to argue against an idea that one is personally invested in; I found this depiction of human nature to be accurate, and am continually amazed at how the narrator is able to illustrate broad analysis of human nature and psychology in only a few paragraphs.