1.

Write a critical note on Anita Desai's novel Fire on the

Mountain.
Anita Desai's novel Fire on the Mountain is an introspective, thought-provoking work that delves
into themes of isolation, self-identity, and the complexities of human emotions, set against the
backdrop of the serene but ominous Indian mountains. Published in 1977, the novel is
structured around the lives of its central characters, the aging Nanda Kaul and the young Raka,
who come together in a remote hill station in Northern India. Through their interactions, Desai
explores the human condition, focusing particularly on psychological landscapes and the inner
lives of women.

Below is an outline and critical note on the novel, which could help you structure your paper
and expand upon the themes, character development, narrative style, and socio-cultural
implications. This will guide you in writing the 5-page internal assessment.

Critical Note on Anita Desai’s Fire on the Mountain

1. Introduction

• Overview of the Novel: Fire on the Mountain is a rich exploration of the internal
struggles of its protagonists, set in the quietude and isolation of a hill station in India.
Desai uses the setting as a metaphor for the emotional and psychological landscapes of
the characters. The novel primarily revolves around two main characters: Nanda Kaul, a
widowed woman who seeks solitude in the mountains, and Raka, her young
granddaughter, who is sent to stay with her. The novel reflects on the themes of
isolation, the complexity of human relationships, and the search for personal identity.

• Significance of the Novel: Desai’s work holds a significant place in post-independence

Indian literature, often praised for its deep psychological insights and lyrical prose. The
novel questions the position of women in society, highlighting both their internal and
external struggles for freedom and autonomy.

2. Themes and Motifs

• Isolation and Alienation: One of the central themes in Fire on the Mountain is the
isolation of the characters. Both Nanda and Raka experience isolation, but in different
ways. Nanda’s isolation is self-imposed as a response to a life marked by personal
tragedies and societal pressures. Her move to the mountains represents a desire to
escape the world and to live in solitude. Raka, on the other hand, experiences isolation
 through her emotional distance from the world and her inability to connect with others,
including her family. The hills, though offering a peaceful refuge, also symbolize
emotional desolation.

• Identity and Self-Realization: The exploration of identity is another key theme. Nanda’s
search for peace and self-realization is complex. She is a woman who has lived a life
defined by roles as a wife, mother, and widow, but in the mountains, she seeks to shed
these identities. However, the past continues to haunt her, especially memories of her
relationship with her husband and children. Similarly, Raka’s journey in the novel is one
of understanding herself and her place in the world. Her disconnection from others
points to a deeper existential question about identity and belonging.

• Gender and Freedom: Desai’s novel subtly critiques the gendered expectations placed
on women in Indian society. Nanda, as a widow, is rendered invisible by society’s norms,
and her decision to withdraw into the mountains reflects a form of silent resistance to
these societal expectations. The novel explores how women’s desires for freedom and
individuality are often stifled by cultural norms, even when they appear to be alone or
free.

• Nature as a Mirror of Inner Conflict: The setting of the mountain, with its physical
remoteness, symbolizes the emotional and psychological states of the characters. The
fire, which occurs near the end of the novel, represents both destruction and renewal,
much like the characters’ experiences. Nature, in Desai’s novel, is not just a backdrop but
an active participant in reflecting and intensifying the characters' inner turmoil.

3. Character Analysis

• Nanda Kaul: Nanda Kaul, the novel’s primary character, is a widow who retreats to the
mountains to escape the chaos of her past. She has become emotionally numb, rejecting
connections with people, including her family. Nanda’s withdrawal into herself is
depicted with sensitivity, and through her, Desai explores the inner life of a woman who
seeks both solitude and peace. However, Nanda is not entirely free from the past. Her
memories and psychological baggage intrude upon her attempts at peace, leading to her
ultimate confrontation with the truth of her life.

• Raka: Raka, Nanda’s granddaughter, is a complex character. She is a young girl who feels
disconnected from the world around her, particularly from her family. Her emotional
detachment and aloofness are portrayed in stark contrast to the vibrant life of youth.
Yet, Raka is also searching for something beyond her isolation—she too is trying to figure
out where she fits into the world. Desai presents Raka not merely as a passive child, but
as someone with her own intense internal life, grappling with her sense of identity.
 • The Minor Characters: The minor characters in the novel, such as Nanda's children and
Raka's parents, help to frame the central characters' experiences. They highlight the
emotional distance between the generations and also the expectations that society has
placed on Nanda and her family. Though they are not deeply developed, their presence
in the narrative is crucial for understanding the social and familial pressures that
contribute to the protagonists’ sense of isolation.

4. Narrative Style

• Desai's Narrative Technique: Desai employs a third-person narrative that alternates

between Nanda’s and Raka’s perspectives, offering readers a window into their
respective inner worlds. The narrative is introspective and slow-moving, reflecting the
stillness and isolation of the mountain setting. Desai’s prose is often poetic, capturing
the subtleties of the characters' emotions and the beauty of the natural surroundings.
The introspective tone allows Desai to delve deep into the psychology of her characters,
especially their feelings of alienation and despair.

• Psychological Realism: Desai’s use of psychological realism is one of the novel’s

strongest features. Both Nanda and Raka’s inner struggles are depicted in great detail,
giving a sense of depth and complexity to their characters. The stream-of-consciousness
technique is occasionally employed, allowing readers to experience the characters’
thoughts in a fragmented, non-linear manner, further reinforcing the theme of inner
turmoil and disconnection.

5. Symbolism

• The Mountain: The mountain is not just a geographical location but a symbol of
emotional distance, psychological isolation, and personal reflection. It represents both
peace and desolation, offering a place of retreat but also highlighting the characters'
internal struggles. The landscape is a silent witness to the emotional and psychological
transformation of the characters.

• Fire: The fire at the end of the novel is a powerful symbol of destruction, renewal, and
the uncontrollable nature of both human emotions and life itself. It serves as a catalyst
for the characters’ confrontation with their past and their unresolved feelings. The fire’s
devastating power mirrors the characters’ inner conflict and their eventual
understanding of themselves.

6. Conclusion

• Overall Assessment of the Novel: Fire on the Mountain is a hauntingly beautiful novel
that explores the inner lives of its characters with great psychological depth. Desai’s
 prose is lyrical, and her exploration of themes like isolation, identity, and the search for
self-awareness makes the novel a profound meditation on the human condition.
Through the story of Nanda and Raka, Desai questions societal norms, particularly those
governing women’s lives, and reflects on the complexities of family, relationships, and
personal freedom.

• Legacy of the Novel: The novel remains relevant today for its exploration of timeless
themes that continue to resonate with readers. Desai’s portrayal of emotional isolation
and her sensitive treatment of the psychological landscapes of her characters provide a
rich reading experience that invites contemplation and reflection. Fire on the Mountain
is a key work in understanding Desai’s literary legacy and her contribution to the
landscape of Indian literature.

2.Discuss Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart as a postcolonial novel.

Internal Assessment
Paper Code: ENG 306
Title: Discuss Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart as a Postcolonial
Novel

Introduction
Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart (1958) stands as one of the seminal
works of African literature and a pivotal text in the postcolonial literary
canon. Set in pre-colonial Nigeria, the novel tells the story of Okonkwo,
an Igbo man whose life is intricately shaped by the traditions of his
society and the arrival of British colonialism. Through Okonkwo’s
experiences and the collapse of his village, Achebe explores the
devastating effects of colonialism on indigenous cultures, societies, and
identities. As a postcolonial text, Things Fall Apart offers a critical
commentary on the impact of European imperialism in Africa, not only
through its portrayal of the direct physical violence of colonization but
also through the psychological and cultural disintegration it causes.
In examining Things Fall Apart as a postcolonial novel, this essay will
explore key themes such as the clash of cultures, the disruption of
traditional systems of power, the erosion of indigenous identity, and the
consequences of the colonizer’s gaze. By analyzing Achebe's critique of
colonialism, we will also delve into how the novel challenges colonial
narratives and offers an alternative, African perspective to colonial
histories.

1. The Clash of Cultures: Colonial Encroachment and Cultural

Disintegration
A major theme in Things Fall Apart is the violent clash between the
traditional Igbo culture and the imposition of British colonial rule. The
arrival of missionaries in Umuofia, the village where Okonkwo resides,
marks the beginning of an era of cultural upheaval. The missionaries
bring with them new religions, customs, and ways of life that directly
conflict with the long-established Igbo traditions. The introduction of
Christianity into the Igbo community represents a cultural invasion, one
that does not merely introduce a new religion but seeks to destroy and
replace indigenous beliefs and practices.
In the novel, Achebe portrays this clash in various ways, focusing on the
impact of colonization on the community’s social structures, belief
systems, and individual identities. The Igbo society is depicted as being
deeply rooted in its spiritual and social traditions, with its own complex
systems of governance, law, and rituals. However, the missionaries and
colonial forces view these traditions as primitive and backwards,
encouraging the Igbo people to abandon their ancestral practices in
favor of Western ideologies. This cultural destruction is personified by
Okonkwo’s resistance to the new faith and his inability to accept the
changes that are happening in his village.
Through Okonkwo’s character, Achebe underscores the tension
between maintaining one’s cultural heritage and the forces of
modernity and colonization. Okonkwo’s inability to adapt to the
changes represents the trauma many indigenous people experienced as
their traditional ways of life were systematically dismantled under
colonial rule. The clash of cultures is not just about religion but extends
to every aspect of daily life, from language and education to social and
political structures.

2. The Disruption of Traditional Power Structures

Achebe also uses Things Fall Apart to illustrate how colonialism
disrupted the traditional systems of power and governance in African
societies. Before the arrival of the British, the Igbo society operates
through a system of elder councils, decision-making assemblies, and a
focus on collective leadership. The strength of the community and its
traditions are manifested in the respect given to elders, warriors, and
chiefs. Okonkwo himself is a respected leader in Umuofia, having risen
from humble beginnings to earn his status through his strength and
achievements.
However, when the British colonial administration establishes control
over the region, these traditional power structures are undermined.
The colonizers impose their own systems of law and order, displacing
the authority of the Igbo elders and chiefs. The establishment of a
British court, a police force, and colonial authorities effectively renders
the Igbo political system irrelevant. This displacement of power is a
central theme in Achebe’s novel, which critiques the colonial system for
not only physically conquering Africa but also psychologically and
culturally disempowering indigenous people.
Okonkwo’s failure to understand and resist these shifts in power reflects
the broader disillusionment of the Igbo community, whose sense of
self-reliance and autonomy is shattered. In this sense, Achebe critiques
the way colonialism attempts to completely transform and dominate
indigenous systems of governance, rendering them ineffective and
irrelevant.

3. The Erosion of Indigenous Identity

At the heart of Achebe’s postcolonial critique in Things Fall Apart is the
profound erosion of indigenous identity that colonialism brings. The
process of colonization is not simply a political or economic
occupation—it is also a cultural one that seeks to replace indigenous
identities with a foreign, European-centered worldview. This identity
crisis is embodied in characters such as Nwoye, Okonkwo’s son, who
becomes drawn to Christianity and ultimately abandons his father’s
traditional ways of life.
Nwoye’s conversion to Christianity symbolizes the internalized impact of
colonialism on the individual psyche. His decision to reject his father’s
Igbo heritage is not just a personal choice; it is a reflection of the
deeper psychological effects of colonization, which creates a sense of
shame about indigenous cultures and values. The missionaries, with
their message of salvation, offer Nwoye a new identity, one that
requires him to sever ties with his heritage and embrace a foreign way
of life.
Achebe critiques this loss of identity by highlighting how the colonizers
dehumanize the indigenous people, labeling them as ‘savages’ and
‘primitive’ while promoting the superiority of Western civilization.
Through characters like Nwoye, Achebe shows the painful psychological
alienation that comes with colonialism: the forced rejection of one’s
culture in favor of an imposed foreign identity. The novel thus examines
the devastating effects of colonization on the collective psyche of a
people, as well as the loss of cultural heritage and self-respect.

4. The Consequences of the Colonizer’s Gaze

A postcolonial analysis of Things Fall Apart also involves examining the
consequences of the colonizer’s gaze, which objectifies and diminishes
indigenous peoples. This gaze is evident throughout the novel in the
way that the British missionaries and colonial officers view the Igbo
people as ‘other’ and inferior. Achebe offers a counter-narrative to the
traditional colonial discourse by presenting the Igbo people’s lives,
beliefs, and traditions from an insider’s perspective.
The colonizers’ view of African societies as barbaric and uncivilized is
systematically challenged in Things Fall Apart. Achebe makes it clear
that the Igbo society, despite its differences from Western civilization, is
not inferior. It has its own sophisticated systems of governance, justice,
and spirituality. By providing an in-depth portrayal of the Igbo
worldview, Achebe undermines colonial stereotypes and emphasizes
the richness and complexity of African culture. The colonizer’s gaze, in
this case, is shown to be both limiting and misguided, as it fails to see
the full humanity of the people it seeks to dominate.
Through the novel, Achebe argues that colonization, in its attempt to
impose a foreign identity and worldview, ultimately fails to recognize
the depth and value of indigenous cultures. In giving voice to the Igbo
people, Achebe asserts the importance of African perspectives and
histories in the postcolonial literary landscape.

5. Achebe’s Postcolonial Response: A Call for African Literary Voices

Finally, Things Fall Apart serves as Achebe’s postcolonial response to
the silencing of African voices in colonial literature. Before Achebe,
African writers had largely been portrayed as passive subjects within
the colonial narrative. Through his writing, Achebe seeks to give a voice
to the indigenous people, presenting their experiences and perspectives
in a way that challenges the colonial narrative.
By telling the story of Okonkwo and the Igbo people from their own
point of view, Achebe creates a space for African literature to assert its
own identity in a postcolonial world. Things Fall Apart is not just a
critique of colonialism, but also an affirmation of African cultures and
the need to reclaim cultural narratives that have been suppressed for
centuries.
Discuss the following:
(I) Impacts of media on society
(II) Principles of mass communication
(III) Misinformation and
(IV) Types of social media
Introduction
Briefly introduce the role of media in society today.
• Highlight the significance of mass communication, its reach, and
its influence on individuals and communities.
• State the purpose of the paper: to discuss the impact of media on
society, the principles of mass communication, the issue of
misinformation and disinformation, and the types of social media.

I. Impacts of Media on Society

1. Positive Impacts:
• Information Dissemination: Media has revolutionized how
information is shared across the globe, making it possible for
people to stay informed about global events, issues, and news.
• Educational Role: Media plays a vital role in education by
spreading knowledge, promoting literacy, and educating the public
about various subjects.
• Cultural Exchange: Media enables the exchange of cultural ideas,
values, and traditions. It helps societies become more connected
and understanding of different cultures.
 • Empowerment & Advocacy: Media can empower marginalized
groups by providing them with a platform to voice their concerns
and issues. It has helped in social movements (e.g., civil rights
movements, environmental activism).
2. Negative Impacts:
• Social Isolation: Increased media consumption, particularly on
digital platforms, can contribute to loneliness and social isolation,
especially when face-to-face interactions decrease.
• Shaping Public Opinion & Bias: Media can shape and sometimes
distort public opinion, with news outlets presenting biased or one-
sided views.
• Violence & Negative Behavior: The portrayal of violence and
negative behaviors in the media can influence viewers, particularly
children and adolescents, to emulate such behavior.
• Mental Health Impact: The constant exposure to unrealistic
beauty standards, lifestyle expectations, and online criticism on
social media platforms has been linked to mental health problems
such as anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia.

II. Principles of Mass Communication

1. Encoding and Decoding:
o Mass communication is a process of encoding (transmitting
messages) and decoding (receiving and interpreting
messages). Media outlets encode messages in specific ways,
 and audiences decode these messages based on their own
perspectives.
2. Communication Models:
o Shannon-Weaver Model: This model highlights the process
of communication as a transmission of information from the
sender to the receiver through a channel, affected by noise
or interference.
o Berlo’s SMCR Model: This model outlines the source,
message, channel, and receiver in the communication
process. It emphasizes the importance of understanding
these components in media communication.
3. Audience Reception:
o Different audiences interpret media messages in different
ways. The "Reception Theory" suggests that audiences
actively decode media messages based on their cultural,
social, and personal experiences.
o The Two-Step Flow Theory posits that media influence flows
from media to opinion leaders, who then pass on their
interpretation of information to others.
4. Media Ethics and Responsibility:
o Ethical principles guide mass communication, including
accuracy, fairness, and integrity. Media professionals have a
responsibility to ensure that their content is truthful,
respectful, and non-harmful.
III. Misinformation and Disinformation
Misinformation:
o Misinformation refers to false or inaccurate information
shared without ill intent. It often arises from mistakes,
misunderstandings, or lack of knowledge.
o Example: A news outlet reports a fact incorrectly due to
unreliable sources or human error.
2. Disinformation:
o Disinformation is intentionally misleading or biased
information spread with the aim of deceiving others or
influencing their behavior or beliefs.
o Example: Fake news articles or conspiracy theories
deliberately created to manipulate public opinion.
3. The Spread and Consequences:
o The rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation,
especially on social media, has significant implications. It can
influence elections, damage reputations, and cause panic or
unrest in society.
o The Role of Fact-Checking and Media Literacy:
Organizations like Snopes, PolitiFact, and others are
dedicated to combating misinformation and disinformation
by fact-checking claims. Media literacy programs are
important in teaching individuals to critically evaluate
sources.
4. Government and Platform Responses:
 o Governments and social media platforms have implemented
policies and tools to identify and limit the spread of false
information, but challenges persist in controlling its impact.

IV. Types of Social Media

1. Social Networking Sites (SNS):
o Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: These platforms allow users
to create profiles, connect with others, share content, and
engage in social interactions. They are used for personal,
professional, and commercial purposes.
o Impact: They facilitate communication, foster relationships,
and enable businesses to reach customers. However, issues
like privacy concerns and mental health effects also arise.
2. Microblogging:
o Twitter, X (formerly Twitter): These platforms allow users to
share brief messages, updates, and engage in real-time
conversations. Tweets are often used for news, opinions, and
trending topics.
o Impact: Microblogging platforms can provide instant access
to breaking news and allow for global conversations, but
they also spread misinformation quickly and often lack
context.
3. Content Sharing Platforms:
 o YouTube, TikTok: These platforms allow users to upload and
share video content, ranging from entertainment to
educational content.
o Impact: These platforms have revolutionized the way people
consume content and learn new things. However, they have
also raised concerns about inappropriate content, copyright
issues, and the potential for exploitation.
4. Discussion Forums:
o Reddit, Quora: These platforms provide spaces for users to
post questions, engage in discussions, and share knowledge
on various topics.
o Impact: They encourage community-driven discussions, but
issues like echo chambers and the spread of misinformation
are prevalent.
5. Messaging Apps:
o WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger: These apps focus on
private communication and group chats, often offering
encryption and privacy features.
o Impact: While they offer more privacy and secure
communication, they also serve as channels for the spread
of misinformation and coordination of harmful activities.
6. Emerging Platforms:
o New types of social media platforms and services are
constantly emerging, adapting to user needs, technology,
 and cultural trends (e.g., Clubhouse, VR-based platforms like
VRChat).

Conclusion
Summarize the key points discussed in the paper.
• Reflect on the complexities of media's impact on society and the
ethical challenges in mass communication.
• Emphasize the need for critical media literacy and responsible
media practices, both for content creators and consumers.
• Suggest further areas of research or exploration regarding the
evolving role of social media and mass communication in the
future.
Explain the following:
(I) Obituary
(II) Review
(III) Column
(IV) Trendstory
Introduction
Begin with an introduction to different types of journalistic writing
formats and their importance in the field of media and communication.
• Explain that various formats such as obituaries, reviews, columns,
and trend stories are essential tools that shape public opinion,
provide information, and capture the pulse of society.
• Briefly state the purpose of the paper: to explain and explore the
four formats — obituary, review, column, and trend story —
discussing their characteristics, purposes, and importance in
journalism.

I. Obituary
1. Definition:
o An obituary is a written notice of someone’s death, typically
published in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms.
o It not only announces the death but also reflects on the life
of the deceased, outlining important milestones,
 accomplishments, and the impact they had on their
community or field.
2. Characteristics:
o Factual and Respectful Tone: Obituaries typically have a
respectful, factual tone. They focus on the life and
contributions of the deceased rather than the circumstances
of their death.
o Structure: Obituaries generally follow a clear structure,
starting with a lead paragraph containing the death
announcement, followed by biographical details like birth,
education, career, and family. The closing often includes
funeral arrangements or memorial details.
o Tribute and Reflection: The obituary serves as a tribute,
often highlighting achievements, values, and memorable
moments, sometimes with quotes from family members,
colleagues, or friends.
3. Types of Obituaries:
o Short Obituaries: These are brief announcements of death,
often without detailed personal reflections.
o Detailed Obituaries: More extensive, these include
comprehensive life histories, achievements, and sometimes
personal anecdotes.
o Celebrity Obituaries: These may emphasize public impact,
career highlights, and contributions to culture or society.
4. Example:
 o You could reference an example of a famous obituary, such
as that of a political leader, artist, or cultural figure, to show
how the obituary focuses on contributions and public
influence.
5. Significance and Role:
o Obituaries help society recognize and mourn the loss of
influential individuals.
o They also serve as an essential record of a person’s life and
contributions for historical purposes.

II. Review
Definition:
o A review is a critical assessment of a creative work (like a
book, movie, music album, or product). It provides an
evaluation, offers insights, and helps audiences decide
whether or not to engage with the work.
2. Characteristics:
o Objective and Subjective Balance: A review blends objective
analysis (facts about the work) with subjective opinions (the
reviewer’s personal perspective).
o Structure: Reviews usually start with a summary or
introduction to the work, followed by an analysis of its
strengths and weaknesses. A conclusion often offers a
recommendation.
 o Evaluation Criteria: Reviews assess various aspects of the
work, such as plot, character development, theme,
performance, or technical execution. For example, a film
review may focus on the acting, direction, cinematography,
and script.
3. Types of Reviews:
o Film and Book Reviews: These are common in media and
entertainment journalism, where critics offer an in-depth
analysis of films or literature.
o Product Reviews: These focus on evaluating consumer
goods or services and are prevalent in digital media and e-
commerce platforms.
o Restaurant or Travel Reviews: These focus on experiences at
dining establishments or destinations.
4. Example:
o You can include an example of a famous or well-known
review, such as Roger Ebert’s movie reviews or a review of a
bestselling book, highlighting the structure and depth of
analysis.
5. Significance and Role:
o Reviews play an important role in shaping public opinion
about entertainment, products, and services. They help
audiences make informed decisions and guide creators or
producers in understanding their audience’s reception.
III. Column
1. Definition:
o A column is a recurring feature in newspapers, magazines, or
online publications, often written by a specific author.
Columns provide commentary, analysis, or opinions on
current events, societal issues, or personal reflections.
2. Characteristics:
o Personal and Opinion-Based: Unlike objective news reports,
columns often reflect the personal opinions or viewpoints of
the writer, making them more subjective.
o Regularity: Columns are published on a regular basis (e.g.,
weekly or monthly), and the same author typically writes
them, leading to a consistent voice or perspective.
o Themes: Columns may focus on a variety of topics such as
politics, culture, sports, or social issues. They can take on a
humorous, informative, or persuasive tone depending on the
subject matter.
o Engagement with Audience: Columns often engage readers
directly, sparking conversation or providing calls to action.
3. Types of Columns:
o Opinion Columns: These reflect the columnist’s personal
views on societal or political issues.
o Lifestyle or Advice Columns: These provide advice on
various topics such as health, relationships, or career.
 o Humor Columns: These use humor to reflect on
contemporary events or social observations.
o Specialized Columns: These focus on niche subjects, like
technology, fashion, or sports.
4. Example:
o An example of a famous columnist could be someone like
Maureen Dowd from The New York Times or David Brooks,
known for their impactful opinion pieces.
5. Significance and Role:
o Columns offer a platform for personal expression and can
influence public discourse. They provide regular, thought-
provoking content and often serve as a reflection of the
times.
o They also contribute to building a strong connection
between the writer and the audience.

IV. Trendstory
1. Definition:
o A trend story is a type of journalistic piece that focuses on
emerging trends, behaviors, or patterns within a particular
field, such as fashion, technology, business, or culture. It
highlights how a trend is developing and its potential impact
on society.
2. Characteristics:
 o Focus on Emerging Trends: A trend story is not about one
event but rather looks at patterns and shifts over time,
identifying emerging behaviors or phenomena.
o Data and Research-Based: Trend stories often rely on data,
research, or expert opinions to support claims about the
trend’s significance.
o Future Implications: These stories may discuss the potential
future impact of a trend, offering predictions or insights into
its growth.
o Wide Scope: Trend stories may look at trends within a
specific community, country, or globally, depending on the
subject matter.
3. Types of Trend Stories:
o Cultural Trends: Stories that explore shifts in societal
behavior, like the rise of minimalism or the impact of social
media influencers.
o Fashion Trends: Coverage of changing styles, clothing lines,
or seasonal fashion choices.
o Technological Trends: Stories discussing emerging
technologies such as AI, virtual reality, or new apps.
o Business or Economic Trends: These look at changing
market forces or industry developments.
4. Example:
 o You could discuss how stories about the rise of remote work
or the increasing popularity of sustainable fashion have been
covered in media outlets as examples of trend stories.
5. Significance and Role:
o Trend stories are important for identifying and analyzing
shifts in society. They can predict or guide consumer
behavior, influence industry practices, and provide insight
into where culture is headed.

Conclusion
• Summarize the key points discussed in the paper, reiterating the
significance of each writing format (obituary, review, column, and
trend story).
• Reflect on the role of each format in shaping public
understanding, discourse, and culture.
• Conclude by emphasizing the importance of mastering these
formats for aspiring journalists, as they provide essential tools for
both informing and engaging audiences.

By following this structure, you’ll be able to comprehensively explain

each writing format, providing clear definitions, characteristics,
examples, and an understanding of their significance in the field of
media and journalism. This should meet the 5-page requirement while
ensuring clarity and depth in your writing.