Feature_Article_What_Not_to_Do_.

Human society has always been stratified-overlooking the obvious values and similarities which was humans share. Texts: A Gateway to Discovering Different Worlds It seems there is something missing; have we forgotten the humanity we all own' – The most important similarity we have. Our shared humanity is not only the glue holding us together but our gateway into discovering and understanding the different worlds we have created. Correspondingly with these values we all have in common our ongoing search for happiness is expected to unite us. This is where we go wrong, the opposite effect takes place as conflicting interpretations of happiness set us apart even further, building up then eventually evolving into our prejudice. Entering Amritsar, India we see Darcy boarding off a plane at the Amritsar Airport. With a high-angle shot, his confusion is emphasised – essentially overpowering him as he transits from laidback London to this chaotic city. Meanwhile we see Lolita in the more peaceful rural region of this city, surrounded by workers in very much traditional Indian apparel while she sits on a tractor in Western clothing. “This is mayhem, this is like Bedlam.” Darcy’s initial reaction entering into Amritsar gives reference to London’s mental institution, Bedlam – reflecting the extent of disorder Darcy finds within Amritsar. This is the opening scene of hit-film Bride and Prejudice – in the space of five minutes the conflicting worlds within Amritsar alone are already evident. The mismatched scenario of Lolita’s clothing and her surroundings in this scene add to this effect; giving its viewers the sensation of experiencing “different worlds”. The transition into the following scene immediately reveals the importance of wealth and the happiness it supposedly brings. In the Indian culture (according to the film), marriage is of upmost priority with many Indian mothers, especially Mrs. Bahkli (Lolita’s mother) desiring this for their children. In addition, reputation is a highly important factor in one’s life; both the Indian and Western cultures value this deeply. However, in their efforts to achieve this (being marriage), the meaning of this sacred union between man and wife has been lost and replaced as a means of providing for oneself, maintaining social status, and carrying on the family name. Certain conflicts and complexities involved in Darcy and Lolita’s relationship reverse the damage caused by this social and cultural prejudice both the Indians and Westerns share. This romantic comedy with a Bollywood twist allows the audience to feel the joy, love and unison of marriage – as it should. The collision of Amritsar and London – with a glimpse of LA shows us that within these worlds what are so seemingly diverse, both shared general values of wealth, social status and marriage. Back home in Australia, the division continues – yes, racial conflicts can be found deep within the roots of Australia, despite our vast multiculturalism. In Deadly Unna' We enter Blacky’s world, expressed to us through a series of humorous techniques and a great deal of irony. His dysfunctional family with his cruel, machine-like father tension is added to the novel, this new level of complexity added to Blacky’s journey to manhood. “This constant selection… a dangerous, almost inevitable cycle” A contemporary setting conveys old ideas of racial intolerance and even further masculinity. Generally, the Goonyas (White Australian from the Port) and the Nungas (Indigenous Australians from the point) do not mix under any circumstances, except one. “The footy was really the only place where Nungas and Goonyas got to hang around together.” Why the footy' The Port has always had an intriguing obsession with their football (AFL), prioritizing it over everything else. For such a small town, this sport was the only gateway to proving its worth - not only for the town as a collective, but for every individual team member as a man. Fame, courage and heroism are all commendable qualities in any person, but are they the key components of one who is happy' The last words in the novel being; “I was as happy as Larry” immediately indicates the importance of this emotion, of this state of being to the protagonist, not as a man but as a human. As he challenges the status quo through his friendship with Dumby Red (Nunga), Blacky (Goonya) begins to realize – just as Lolita – the substance of dignity and strength in character. As we see mutual respect and integrity in both individuals, the town opposes. This constant selection of people according to stereotypes or certain prejudices has become a dangerous, almost inevitable cycle. Here, we have these two teenage males from different races willingly setting aside their racial differences, prejudiced upbringings, and weaknesses to build a strong, respectful friendship: where one is always there for the other while maintaining their masculinity. What was it that made Lolita and Blacky obtain their happiness' Was it the wealth' Was it winning the Grand Final' No, definitely not. The satisfaction they both received, from living honestly, setting aside social conformations while doing what was right for them led them to true happiness. Being human, forgetting our differences and embracing our similarities, our humanity. Both of these characters had to challenge the status quo in order to progress as individuals in their separate worlds. As an audience there is some comfort in knowing that someone on the other side of the world shares your experiences or at least sympathises with your circumstances (whatever they may be). Personally, I perceive these texts as a gift, an opportunity for us to begin building a mutual understanding and acknowledging our correspondence once again in a humane manner. I leave you with this, Lolita and Blacky achieved their happiness through simplicity in character and needs, so readers keep it simple. Readers, through these texts, we are provided with the gateway to the discovery of many great things which will strengthen us within. Anna Maria Hanna .