Overly Formal Final Paper Proposal

          So, when given the task to think about the topic of my final paper, I immediately thought about what most interested me at the time: transcendentalism.  However, since then, I have realized that transcendentalism is a literary movement and does not necessarily pertain to signs.  It can pertain to some signs, yes, and it serves as an important period in history that has affected many things in modern culture.  However, to write an entire essay about transcendentalism would not express what I have learned in the class, it would merely be me desperately connecting my prior knowledge to signs that do not necessarily fall under the category of “transcendentalist.”  With that being said, I believe that the most incredible piece of signage that I have witnessed on my class outings has been Andy Goldsworthy’s work of art in Golden Gate Park entitled Drawn Stone.

I think, unless future field trips enlighten me more than this work of art has, I will write about Andy Goldsworthy.  I will focus on the meaning behind his work of art in Golden Gate Park, but I will also go into depth about his other important projects and the overall intent of his work.  I may even light upon the subject of transcendentalism while I’m at it, since I find that topic so intriguing. 

Alas, one does not do something important, like write a final paper, without first considering her options.  So, although Andy Goldsworthy is my first choice, other ideas are as follows:

1)       The Haight and how the signs represent counterculture. Overall, what counterculture means and how it pertains to everyday life in San Francisco. This paper would almost be like an extension of my Haight thought paper.

2)       What is a sign? And how does it hold deeper meaning? (The Philosophy of Signs)

3)       How this class has personally shaped my insight and perspective on signage.

And, finally,

4)       Signs through a communication major’s perspective: how do signs attract an audience?

After considering all of my options, I believe that it is safe to say that I have at least brainstormed my topic for my final paper. Although I am fairly set on the topic of Andy Goldsworthy, my topic may be subject to change with future field trips.  

(I apologize for the overly formal tone of the proposal. I was in the mood to write as if I was an old British author speaking to his book club. I hope you can understand. Smashing.)