"Fanning the Flame"

I. "Fanning the Flame" http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/leading-articles/leading-article-fanning-the-flame-805411.html, April 7, 2008

II. This article speaks about the personal oppinion of its author on the issue of the Olympic torch and what it represents today. He argues that due to an uprising over a runner through London, the torch officially lost its symbolism of harmony. The torch was originally brought back to fame under Hitler and Goebbel' ideas of what they thought Nazism owed to Sparta. It eventually turned into a symbol for unity and sportsmanship but has now arguably lost both its title and importance.

IIIa) This article best relates to the theme Development and interactions of cultures because it involves an internationally and culturally based event, the Olympics, as well as discusses the ancient ideologies and newage oppinions about them.
IIIb) The historical content of this article relates to both the entire history of ancient Greek sports as well as the more recent ideas stemming from Hitler and Goebbels. Both factions contribute to this article; Hitler and Goebbels from their catalystic event and revival of the torch from the 1936 Berlin Olympics, and ancient Greece itself for creating both the games belonging to early Olympics as well as its entire phenmenon.
IIIc) The author of this document is a man from English decent. Although he is from Britian, he was not present at the scene of the crowd and therefore is considered an outsider which may have some affect on his writing.
IIId) The author heavily impacts this article with his oppinion over facts making it more of an oppinioated article than true factual document. The author blatently states that there's, " nothing particulary sacred about the torch," and, " unharmonious it has become and will remain." This is clearly stated through his view point and unagreed by many which tells it's more of his thoughts about the issue and may not be total truth. His entire negativity soaks through the article in order to pursuade his readers to stop beleiving in the heart of the torch and trust on the present reality.
IIIe) It would be most beneficial to hear from the runner's voice who was crowed against in London. Being one who's so heavily part of the Olympic legend as well as the focal point for what really happened would be able to accuratly tell if the torch is worth it and still holds meaning, or if it is just part of an over extended scheme.
IIIf) I completely disagree with this article's central message, although can connect with some of its minor themes. I don't think the Olympic torch will ever entirely lose its message to the people and still think its long lasted traditions should withold. I have realized however that due to the rapid pace of change and turmoil taking place in our present world, certain tactics about it should be handled differently such as maybe the runners should be watched over by security as they run to prevent such uproars. I also agree that the torch is progressivly losing its significance but due to the people of our world and not the Olympics themselves. If anything I think the Olympics are a symbol for international unity and have noticed that the many negative articles like this one represent the world's un-unification and pride.