Monday, September 30, 2019

Full Moon and Little Frieda

Full moon and little Frieda is a poem written by Ted Hughes. The poem is about Frieda’s first word ‘Moon’, but in this poem, Moon represents her father, which is Ted. He is amazed at her for the first time calling his name. It starts of just like this â€Å"on a cool evening with dogs barking and buckets clanking with spider’s web with dew looking like a mirror. † And cows are wandering in their lane â€Å"A dark river of blood, many boulders† In the first stanza, he says â€Å"as you listening†, it means that he’s trying to put you in his situation or current atmosphere, or in this case, in the barn.It is at night when the cows are getting ready to get back to their ‘home’. It is a silence night where there are spider webs with dews on it. In the second stanza, he shows us that the ‘cows are going home in the lane there, looping the hedges with their warm wreaths of breath’, meaning that the cows are go ing back to their home in their comfortable lane and that they are happy. ‘A dark river of blood, many boulders’ suggests that he wants the reader to think there is some sort of sadness when his wife left him because she committed suicide.But when Frieda cries Moon, his reaction changed become surprised and amazed because he is very happy to hear his name being called. I think it is not a sad poem, but some parts like ‘dark river of blood’ suggest that maybe he is having a family trouble, which could be due to the fact that his wife committed suicide. This poem is well-written in a very simply English even though the meaning behind it is not really obvious.The first time I read the poem, I thought it’s just about a little girl on a farm full of cows calls for the moon. But after a bit of research, I realized that Moon represents her father. The cows represent both sadness and happiness. I see that it is written in 3 stanzas. The first two stanzas, it has 5 verses. There is a lot of imagery going on in the poem that really put you in the peaceful mind, the animals doing what they are suppose to do (going back to the farm because it is late night already).I also see that there is no rhythm or rhyme in the poem. While you’re reading the poem, the feeling of relaxed and chilled are felt. This is a short poem which I love as I can’t stand long poems that literally need deciphering before one can understand them. It had no rhyming or rhythm so one was free to put your one style into it which makes it more fun. I liked the subject of the poem and it was to me a very meaningful and well written poem.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Succubus Heat CHAPTER 9

I was starting to envy the teleportation that higher immortals used. I'd always complained about it in the past (it tended to be a bit disorienting), but suddenly, a spot of dizziness seemed trivial compared to doing the Vancouver-Seattle drive yet again. Annoying or not, I was anxious to talk to Jerome, so as soon as Cedric gave me leave to go home the next day, I hit the road back to the States. Isabelle had seemed convincing enough in denying her role in the Army's shenanigans, and both Carter and Cedric seemed certain she wasn't involved either. I couldn't dismiss any leads here, however, not when my permanent return to Seattle was on the line and certainly not when someone was actually messing with Seattle itself. Isabelle might truly be innocent, but I wasn't going to shut the door on this until I'd run it by Jerome. â€Å"It seems like you're here more than you are there,† noted Hugh when I called to tell him I was back in town. â€Å"Doesn't really seem like you're being punished all that much.† â€Å"Punishment's subjective. Do you know where Jerome's at?† â€Å"Last I knew, he was meeting someone.† â€Å"The Cellar?† â€Å"Mmm, no†¦that new bar in Capitol Hill. Clement's.† â€Å"Is he going to be mad if I show up while he's at a lunch meeting?† â€Å"If he doesn't want to be interrupted, you won't be able to find him.† Fair point. Without going home, I drove straight to Capitol Hill, finding street parking that wasn't actually too far from Cody and Peter's apartment. Clement's was a new place that had gone in recently, a bit sleeker and trendier than the Cellar, which was a divey haunt in Pioneer Square we immortals often frequented. Clement's had the same upscale feel and designer drink menu that Mark's had had, and I had a hard time convincing myself that a drink probably wasn't the best idea while I was here in the midst of demonic business. I spotted Jerome right away. He was at a back table, facing the doorway. His eyes met mine as I approached, my signature declaring my presence, just as his came through to me. Only, his wasn't the only immortal aura there. I recognized the bearer's identity before the woman seated across from him even turned around. Nanette. I came to a stop by their table, speechless more from surprise than fear. Jerome and Nanette together? When had this come about? There was a sly smile on her face, like she was in on some joke the rest of us weren't. She had on another cute sundress, lavender silk that looked great with her blond hair, though the spring weather didn't quite seem warm enough for it yet. Of course, when you were a demon, I supposed the fires of Hell kept you warm. â€Å"Georgie,† said Jerome, not unpleasantly, â€Å"it seems like you're here more than you are in Vancouver.† â€Å"Cedric sent me home. He doesn't seem to want me around if I'm not doing something specific.† Nanette chuckled and paused to take a drink of what looked like a Lemon Drop martini. â€Å"I imagine so, after that spectacle yesterday. Brilliant work, I might add.† I grimaced, deciding to out myself and risk losing Jerome's regard. â€Å"I actually didn't have anything to do with that. They did it without telling me.† Jerome didn't seem to mind. â€Å"That footage is all over YouTube. I've watched it a hundred times.† This whole thing was so confusing. Jerome ostensibly wanted me to help Cedric unravel the cult, yet my boss clearly took great pleasure in seeing the progress stall out. Again I felt like I was missing a piece of the picture here, making me even less secure about my position. â€Å"Look,† I said. â€Å"I don't want to interrupt your drinks. I'd just been hoping to chat with Jerome, but I can find you later.† Nanette downed her martini and stood up. â€Å"No, no. We're finished here. Have my seat.† I was hesitant, but she was insistent, and Jerome didn't appear to be too put out at her departure. She walked out of the bar like a normal human, not bothering with any elaborate teleportation-at least not while others could see her. He gestured toward her chair, and I sat down. â€Å"So, what can I do for you, Georgie?† Jerome was drinking brandy, something more suited to a night by the fire than a Sunday afternoon. â€Å"You were hanging out with Nanette?† I asked, momentarily putting Isabelle on hold. â€Å"As you saw.† â€Å"I told you about her meeting with Cedric.† â€Å"And?† â€Å"And, doesn't it seem weird that she's meeting with each of you behind the other's back?† â€Å"It's not behind anyone's back,† he countered. â€Å"I know she met with Cedric, and she knows I know.† Isabelle was moving farther and farther to the back burner of my mind. Suddenly, it all seemed perfectly obvious. Isabelle had denied being the angel because she didn't want her situation to change. Nanette, however, did want change. She wanted to stop feeling like Cedric and Jerome were eyeing her territory and squeezing her between them. She'd claimed her meeting with Cedric was defensive on her part, yet I couldn't help but wonder if she might be more on the offensive than any of us realized. â€Å"Georgie,† said Jerome dryly. â€Å"I can see those wheels in your head spinning. What are you thinking?† Starting with the meeting at Tim Hortons, I gave Jerome a full report of my experiences with the Army and the theories I'd put together about the Angel of Darkness being a literal angel-Isabelle. â€Å"Ridiculous,† said Jerome. â€Å"It's not her.† â€Å"You sound just as certain as Cedric did.† He shrugged, almost looking embarrassed to have agreed with his rival. â€Å"Because she's not running any cult. I've met her. She's not the type.† â€Å"Well, I'm actually starting to agree.† I took a deep breath and pushed forward. â€Å"I don't suppose it's occurred to either of you that Nanette could be the one behind this?† Jerome's face grew even more incredulous. â€Å"Nanette? Georgie, this is out there, even for you.† â€Å"What, demons eyeing each other's territories? Come on, Jerome. That's not out there at all! It's what you and Cedric were-maybe still are-doing for each other. If something blows up, Nanette's in a far better position to benefit from it than Isabelle would. Nanette's running to both of you, claiming she's worried about the other when really, she's playing you both off each other.† Jerome rolled the brandy in his glass. â€Å"And let me guess: she's blond too, like this alleged golden-haired angel.† â€Å"Well†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He sighed, took a last swig of the brandy, and set the glass down hard. â€Å"Not that I have any reason to explain our goings-on to you, but here it is. Nanette doesn't have the balls to try something like that. Oh, sure, some of your points are correct. This wouldn't be unreasonable demon behavior, particularly one feeling threatened. But not her. She might want to do something like this, but she won't. She's a lot of talk but not much on action.† I didn't usually get answers that detailed from Jerome and was a bit taken aback. â€Å"You're certain?† â€Å"I am,† he said firmly. A waiter delivered a new glass of brandy. â€Å"Leave her and Isabelle behind. Find some other reason for what this absurd group's doing. Barring that, disband them like you're supposed to. And barring that , do give me some credit that I can take care of my affairs without a succubus' help.† I left not long after that, leaving Jerome to drink alone. As I pushed the door open, I glanced back and studied him. His face was momentarily unguarded, troubled as he stared into the depths of his glass. He seemed very alone, literally and figuratively, despite his bold words. I felt a strange pang in my chest, a bit of sorrow over what was undoubtedly an eternity of torment made worse when complications like our current ones ensued. But then, maybe these bursts of demonic drama helped break up the monotony. I considered errands after that but decided heading straight home sounded best. My phone rang just I stepped into my apartment. I kicked the door closed with my foot while my free hand dug through the depths of my purse. Doug's number showed on the caller ID. â€Å"Is everything okay?† I asked as soon as I answered. â€Å"You know what's sad here, Kincaid? You aren't asking if I'm okay. You saw my number, assumed there was some crisis at work, and want to know if the store's okay.† â€Å"Your point?† â€Å"The store's fine. I wanted to know if you're in town. Maddie made it sound like you can cross time and space now and be everywhere all the time.† â€Å"I wish I could, but yeah, I'm at home. What's up?† â€Å"You going to Casey's party?† â€Å"Casey's what?† Even as I spoke the words, I remembered Casey pulling me aside in the store and asking if I'd attend her graduation party. â€Å"Ugh. That's today, isn't it?† â€Å"Yup. You want me to pick you up?† â€Å"Doug, I don't think I can go. In fact, I even told her I couldn't.† â€Å"Right. Tell me right now, immediately, what you have to do instead.† â€Å"Well, I, uh-â€Å" â€Å"Too slow. You have nothing going on.† â€Å"I'm just not in a party mood.† â€Å"The beauty of that is that when people aren't in party moods, that's actually when they need a party the most.† â€Å"Doug-â€Å" â€Å"Come on! How can you not acknowledge the achievements of some brainiac math major who's graduating early, for fuck's sake?† â€Å"Latvian.† â€Å"What?† â€Å"Math and Latvian. Dual majors.† â€Å"You're making my point for me. It would be sad and wrong if we didn't help her celebrate. She overcame a life of adversity, coming to this country in the hopes of making a better life for herself and her family.† â€Å"Doug, she's, like, fourth generation. Her dad's a neurosurgeon.† â€Å"Come on! Maddie's gotta stay and close, so I have no one to go with. That, and it's kind of creepy how I've been going to social events with my sister lately. I need you to make me look like a man again.† â€Å"Doug-â€Å" â€Å"See you in five minutes, Kincaid.† I knew how Doug could be in these moods. He wasn't kidding about showing up in five minutes, and he was also right that I had nothing else to do. With so little time, I simply shape-shifted into a plain gray skirt and black blouse that seemed appropriate for a graduation party. While rustling around for a blank card that I could stick a check into, I dialed Dante to let him know I was in town and to see if he wanted to come with us. Like usual lately, I went to his voice mail. What was it with me and unreliable men? I'd had trouble getting a hold of Seth when we dated because he was always caught up writing. Now I had trouble getting a hold of Dante because†¦well, because he was unreliable. I left Casey's address with the message and hurried to get ready. I'd wanted to wear Dante's watch but couldn't find it before Doug showed up-honestly, it had been more like four minutes-so I ended up just running out the door without accessories. Casey's family lived over in Clyde Hill, a beautiful lakeside suburb befitting a neurosurgeon's family. The party had been going on for about an hour when we arrived, and we found their expansive backyard filled with music, food, and people. Dusk was falling, and the soft glow of lanterns strung along trees and the fence line gave everything a sort of elfin mystique. We paused at the yard's entry, assessing our surroundings and looking for others we knew. â€Å"This is kind of wholesome for me,† Doug noted. â€Å"There are kids here.† â€Å"Of course there are. This is a graduation party, not one of your after-show keggers.† â€Å"Oh, hey,† he said brightly. â€Å"There's a bartender. Looks like this'll be tolerably wholesome.† Casey found us getting drinks and threw her arms around both of us in a massive double hug. â€Å"Oh! You guys came! Thanks so much.† She was aglow with excitement and energy and could barely stay still. She accepted my card with another hug, told us to let her know if we needed anything, and then dashed off when she saw her great aunt from Idaho arrive. â€Å"Wow. All this kind of makes me wish I'd stayed in college,† Doug mused. A few of our coworkers waved at us from the far side of the yard, and we began winding our way toward them. â€Å"Yup. You could have had all this fun waiting for you after school.† He grimaced. â€Å"The problem is, I was having all this fun during school.† The other bookstore staff were happy to see us, and we all fell into comfortable conversation that varied from the party itself to shop talk from work. Casey's family had spared no expense, and waiters came around with various types of finger food. None of us had eaten dinner, so we practically devoured the trays and probably looked like savages in our corner. I was contemplating a second drink when Beth suddenly said, â€Å"Oh, hey. Seth and Maddie are here.† I stiffened. One of the reasons I'd answered the door when Doug came to pick me up was that he'd said Maddie was closing. Knowing I'd get a reprieve from her and Seth had made this prospect bearable, but apparently, there'd been some sort of incorrect intel afoot. I did an immediate 180, hoping I had misheard Beth. Nope. There they were: Seth and Maddie. Worse, Seth's little niece Kayla was with them. She was the youngest of his brother's girls, four years old with blue eyes and a mop of blond curls. I'd recently discovered that Kayla had the makings of a psychic and was able to sense the unseen world, much as Dante or my friend Erik could. She was a long way from having their skills or having any idea what they meant yet. For now, she was just a happy little girl-albeit a very quiet one-and seeing her with Seth and Maddie jerked painfully at my heartstrings. â€Å"I thought you said she was closing,† I hissed to Doug. He didn't notice the upset tone in my voice and read it as surprise. â€Å"I thought so. Maybe she got Janice to do it. I know she's been giving her more and more responsibility. Makes me wonder about my own job security.† The bookstore gang greeted the newcomers with cheering. Kayla broke from her guides and, to my astonishment, ran over to me. â€Å"Georgina!† I scooped her up, and that dark, angry serpent within me settled down a little. Not only had Kayla sought me out, she'd also spoken-a rarity. I hugged her to me, and with her in my arms, it suddenly seemed as though all had to be right in the world. â€Å"You've got a fan, Kincaid,† laughed Doug. He winked at her. She gave him a shy smile in return and then turned back to me and rested her head on my shoulder. â€Å"She spoke,† said Maddie in wonder. Maddie knew I'd been friends with the Mortensens and thought nothing of me knowing the girls. â€Å"An entire soliloquy,† I laughed. â€Å"We're watching her while the others are at a school play,† explained Seth. â€Å"This party's unreal,† said Maddie, gazing around at all the fanfare. â€Å"Does anyone know why she dual-majored in Latvian?† â€Å"Blow-off major?† suggested Beth. â€Å"Anthropology and Women's Studies are blow-off majors,† said Doug. â€Å"Not Latvian.† â€Å"Hey!† said Maddie, elbowing her brother. She often wrote freelance articles for feminist magazines. â€Å"Hey, don't take it out on me. I'll never forget you taking that class called Evolution of the Dress.† â€Å"It was harder than you think!† The rest of us watched the Sato siblings with amusement, and to my dismay, so did Seth. I guess I'd kind of hoped he'd be shooting furtive, longing glances at me. Instead, he watched Maddie almost†¦fondly. Like he found her smart and funny-which she was, of course. He was watching her the way any guy would watch his girlfriend. â€Å"Hey,† I said to Doug. â€Å"Why don't you stop annoying your sister and go get us a refill?† â€Å"You're a bad role model for the kid,† he warned. But he took my cup anyway and headed for the bar. If anything, it seemed me holding Kayla gave Seth and Maddie a chance to be more affectionate. They held hands. So, I paid more attention to Kayla, snagging novel appetizers as they went by and explaining to her what quiche and brie were. Once Doug returned with my drink, I took it down pretty rapidly, still conscious of the fact that I held a child. When I'd finished my third, I knew enough to hand her off. Maddie took her by the hand and led her to look at a koi pond on the far side of the yard. This left me alone with the others, and whether it was alcohol or succubus charisma or just a desire to show up Maddie, I found myself coming to life. I joked and talked to everyone, making sure each person was included in the conversation. I saw them all light up, caught up in the aura of comfort and good cheer I created. Maybe I had ulterior motives, but despite that, I actually enjoyed myself. It had been awhile since I'd been able to just have a fun, effortless social encounter. When Maddie returned, however, I decided it was time for my fourth drink. I headed across the yard, graceful in spite of the alcohol. While waiting in line, the guy behind me struck up conversation. â€Å"I've seen you somewhere.† I glanced up at him. He was tall, late thirties, and had bronzed hair. I gave him a winning smile. â€Å"That's a very bad pick-up line.† â€Å"No, I'm serious.† He frowned. â€Å"In the paper†¦were you in some sort of date auction?† â€Å"Oh my God. You do recognize me.† Through Hugh's machinations, I'd participated in a charity date auction last December. I'd ended up going for an obscene amount of money and had made the paper. â€Å"If I remember, you did a lot for that charity.† â€Å"What can I say? I love kids.† Our turns came, and we each got new drinks. Stepping off to the side, we continued our conversation. â€Å"I don't suppose,† he said, â€Å"that I'd have to pay that much for a date?† â€Å"You're asking me out?† â€Å"Seeing you in person? Yeah. I kind of understand the price now.† â€Å"Wow, you don't waste time on formalities.† He shrugged. â€Å"I don't have time to. Too busy with work.† Ah. One of those guys. I didn't have Hugh's ability to see souls, but something told me I wouldn't get an enormous energy fix from this guy. Of course, just then, it didn't matter. I was drunk and distressed and a sleazy guy seemed just like what I needed right then, no matter how inappropriate the setting. In fact, the inappropriateness kind of added to it. â€Å"No, not that much. Though to tell you the truth, I'm kind of busy myself. I don't like to waste time on something that's going to fizzle out. I'm sort of a try-before-you-buy girl.† He studied me very carefully, face serious. â€Å"What exactly do you have in mind?† I inclined my head toward the house. â€Å"They must have a bathroom in there.† As expected, he didn't take much coaxing. The house was wide open to anyone who needed to get in there, and we passed wait staff moving in and out as we sought one of the house's many bathrooms. We finally ended up at a small one on the second floor that was adjacent to a guest room. It didn't look like it saw much use, and as soon as we shut the door, we were all over each other. He'd told me along the way that his name was Wes and that he had some sort of corporate position in a bank downtown. I'm not sure why he was trying to impress me, seeing as I'd made this painfully easy for him, but I appreciated the weak effort anyway. My biggest concern was his relationship to the family, but it turned out he was a friend of a friend of a business associate, so I had little worry about this getting back to Casey. My skirt came off almost immediately, followed by a rapid unbuttoning of my blouse that pulled off a button. It skittered across the floor, lost forever. He left the blouse itself on, simply hanging open, and ran his hands over my body, taking in the black lace bra and matching panties. â€Å"Good God,† he breathed. â€Å"You might be worth more than that auction price.† â€Å"I'm not a call girl,† I snapped, irritated for some reason I couldn't entirely understand. â€Å"And make this fast. My friends are going to be waiting for me.† Wes seemed a little surprised that I wasn't fawning all over him, but he didn't argue. His pants and briefs came off next, and he grabbed a hold of my hips, tilting me so that I sat on the edge of the counter, with my body at an angle and my head and shoulders against the mirror. The counter and his height lined up perfectly, and a moment later, he was in me, neither rough nor gentle, just somewhere in the middle. It was a little boring, actually, like he couldn't quite make up his mind and take a stand. But as he gripped my ankles and held my legs up, the pace steadily increased, and I saw sweat break out along his brow. The life energy seeping into me was moderate, just like everything else about this tryst, but compared to Dante, it was fairly significant. That energy made up for the rest of it, and when he came with a primal sort of grunt, that burst of life coursed into me in its entirety. Like fine tendrils of light, it raced through my body, reinvigorating me and making me strong. He staggered back, and I hopped down off the counter to quickly put my clothes back on. â€Å"Wow,† he gasped. â€Å"That was-â€Å" â€Å"Do not say worth the money,† I warned. â€Å"Particularly since you didn't pay.† He shut up, and I smiled. With a quick kiss on the cheek, I moved over to the door. â€Å"Thanks,† I said. â€Å"It was fun.† He fumbled for his underwear. â€Å"You want to go out sometime?† â€Å"Nope.† I left him to get dressed, discreetly closing the door behind me and remembering to take my drink with me. No one was upstairs, so our encounter had gone unnoticed-or so I thought. When I reached the bottom of the stairs, I nearly walked right into Seth. â€Å"Oh my God,† he said, giving me a once over. â€Å"You really did it?† â€Å"Did what?† I asked in a saccharine voice. â€Å"You know what. You've got that-that glow. That, and you're missing a button.† I glanced down at the guilty gap in the blouse and shape-shifted it to its former state. â€Å"There. Good as new.† He shook his head, keeping his voice low so we wouldn't be overheard. â€Å"I didn't really believe you'd do it. I saw you walk off with him and thought, ‘No, she wouldn't. Not here.' So I came over and-â€Å" â€Å"You what? Came to stop me?† I couldn't help an incredulous laugh. â€Å"Seth, what I do or don't do is none of your business.† â€Å"What about Dante? You just cheated on him.† â€Å"I cheat on all my boyfriends. Did you forget? It's what I do.† â€Å"You didn't need the energy fix. I could tell.† â€Å"Yeah, but I wanted the energy fix. What are you, jealous?† â€Å"What happened to you?† he demanded, evading my question. â€Å"How did you change so much? You're better than this.† â€Å"I've always been like this. You were just too starstruck to notice.† I turned and left him, heading back out to our friends, making sure I neatened up my appearance in tiny increments as I walked. The alcohol was really kicking in at this point, but I was pretty sure I still managed to walk without looking obviously drunk. When I reached the group, Kayla gestured to be picked up again. I was a little hesitant, but she seemed so insistent that I handed my drink to Doug and lifted her into my arms again. Mercifully, I didn't fall over. She studied me with those big blue eyes, and I wondered what she sensed. Something about her gaze affected me in a way that Seth's chastising hadn't. I felt bad for what I'd done. Dirty. Cheap. â€Å"She sure does like you,† said Maddie. â€Å"And you're great with her too. You should have kids of your own.† I ran a hand over Kayla's fine hair, recalling the dreams Nyx had sent me while she'd stolen my energy. They'd all shown an impossible future, me with a daughter and husband. â€Å"Can't,† I said. â€Å"Doug would be lousy at child support.† â€Å"Oh, be quiet,† he snapped back good-naturedly. I think he'd been drinking as much as me by now. Seth returned just then and touched Maddie's arm, his expression grim. â€Å"We should head off. Terry and the others will be back, and Kayla's probably getting tired.† Maddie's face fell a little. â€Å"Already?† It was the first time in their idyllic relationship that I'd ever seen signs of clouds. â€Å"We need to get her back,† Seth reiterated mildly. â€Å"And I've got a chapter to write.† She rolled her eyes. â€Å"Ah. Now the truth comes out.† Interesting. Maddie had to put up with the same stuff I had. â€Å"Stay,† Doug told her. â€Å"I'll give you a ride.† â€Å"Yeah, like I'd trust you behind a wheel right now.† â€Å"Then you drive me and Kincaid home, and Mortensen can go now.† They all finally decided that was a good idea. As Seth and Kayla were about to go, Maddie suddenly did a double-take. â€Å"Oh! Wait. You have to give Georgina her present.† I blinked. â€Å"Present?† Seth's face turned almost- almost -mischievous, though he was still clearly bothered by what had taken place in the house. â€Å"Uh, yeah. I just got a box of advanced copies of the next Cady and O'Neill book and wondered if you wanted one.† â€Å"I†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I stopped, unsure what to say. Maddie laughed. â€Å"You've been the belle of the ball all night, and this is what makes you speechless?† â€Å"Hey, it's not that easy. I mean†¦this is Cady and O'Neill. You know how I feel about them. I've sort of accepted that I wouldn't get to read their next installment until October. If I get it now, my whole universe will be thrown out of whack.† â€Å"So you don't want it?† asked Seth. â€Å"Oh, I want it. Just seems†¦I don't know. It feels like cheating.† â€Å"They're in the car right now,† teased Maddie in a singsong voice. â€Å"Sure you don't want one?† I looked at Seth's smile, and something weird passed between us. I could hardly believe that minutes ago, we'd been fighting in the house. The looks we exchanged, the way I felt†¦it was almost like it used to be. I hastily turned away. â€Å"Yes,† I groaned. â€Å"Of course I do.† Seth said good-bye to the rest of the bookstore gang and tried to find Casey, but she was surrounded by a throng of relatives. Giving up, he led me out of the yard to where he'd parked a block or so away. Kayla was still in my arms. None of us spoke, and it was just as well because my feelings were all tangled up. Every post-breakup interaction between us had been angry or painfully tense lately. Yet, in these last few moments, things had become almost comfortable again. Was it possible we'd ever move past this phase? Could the pain I'd gone through with him really ease up so quickly? He unlocked the car and got the book for me. I hoped I didn't gape like a schoolgirl when I saw it. All Fools Night . The cover showed the skyline of Washington, DC, blurred like a Renoir painting and overlaid with dark indigo. All sorts of warnings about it being an advanced copy and not for sale were on it, but I paid those no heed. I didn't want to sell it. I wanted to read it. Now. When I dragged my eyes up from the cover, Seth regarded me with happy amusement. â€Å"I can't believe you're really that excited.† â€Å"Why wouldn't I be? And why are you surprised? Lots of people love your books.† He shook his head. â€Å"Yeah†¦but it's still surreal to think that I can write something-create something-that affects people so strongly that they get an emotional involvement with what I've pulled from my head. And to realize that someone I know personally†¦knowing it affects you like that†¦well, like I said, surreal.† The sweet, earnest look in his eyes was making butterflies dance in my stomach, so I hastily looked back at the cover. I almost wished we'd start fighting again. â€Å"Seth†¦why†¦why are you doing this?† â€Å"Giving you the book?† He was puzzled. â€Å"No, I mean†¦being nice. And worrying about me back there.† â€Å"You don't think I'm normally nice?† I looked back up and sighed. â€Å"You know what I mean. We've been avoiding each other since New Year's, and when we have been together, it's been disastrous. Yet, here you are bringing me this†¦I just don't understand it. Was it Maddie's idea?† He stared at me for a long time, or at least it felt like it. A chill ran down my spine, and for a second, I felt disoriented, like I was in this time and another, reliving the same moment over again. â€Å"No. I did it because hate shouldn't last forever,† he said finally, voice soft. â€Å"Because eventually, you have to forgive. You can't just stop caring or†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He didn't finish the phrase. â€Å"I think we'll always have a connection, no matter where we go or what we do. And if so, I'd like us to be friends.† For the second time that night, I was speechless. There were a hundred things that would have made good responses. Telling him I agreed. Telling him I forgave him. Telling him I wanted us to be friends too. Yet, I couldn't muster those words, and I never had a chance to ponder exactly why because Kayla suddenly jerked in my arms, coming awake with wide-eyed alacrity. â€Å"Hey,† a voice called to us. We turned. Dante was about half a block away and walking toward us. With each step, Kayla recoiled further and further from his approach. Dante's lifetime of power-seeking and wicked deeds had left a taint on him, one that Kayla could sense the way she could sense my aura. I didn't entirely know what it felt like for her, but it couldn't be good. â€Å"Here,† I said to Seth. â€Å"Trade me.† Kayla went to him eagerly, and he handed over the book just as Dante reached us. He put an arm around me and kissed my cheek. â€Å"Got your message and thought I'd come by. Hey,† he said, by way of greeting to Seth. Seth nodded back, and whatever fragile companionship he and I had been rebuilding disappeared. Eager to distract, I employed the conversational gift I allegedly had. â€Å"Seth was leaving and just had to get this book for me.† I held it up as explanation. â€Å"How was work?† Dante kept his arm around me in a way that was almost proprietary. He'd always regarded my past with Seth nonchalantly, but I think me being so deeply involved with someone bothered him sometimes. His eyes lighted on Kayla for a moment. She was trying so hard to keep away from him that she was practically crawling off Seth. Mortal magic and abilities varied considerably, but I imagined Dante must be able to sense her too. A ghost of a smile crossed his lips, and then he turned his attention back to me. â€Å"Slow, as usual. I did get a couple of high teens wanting Tarot.† â€Å"Oh, lord. Your favorite kind of teens.† â€Å"Yup. Never questioned the price. I don't even know if they comprehended the fortune, to be honest.† â€Å"You didn't tell them about tree frogs, did you?† â€Å"Tree frogs?† asked Seth. â€Å"Yeah, Dante had these kids on acid come in once, and as part of their reading, he told them to beware of tree frogs.† Grinning, Dante shook his head at the memory. â€Å"Shit, that freaked them out. You should have seen them when they left the store. They were practically crouching on the ground, looking up everywhere, peering at every window and telephone wire. That would have almost been compensation enough.† The image always made me laugh. â€Å"But not this time?† â€Å"Nah, this group was just sluggish and out of it. On the bright side, they paid me ten dollars for a bag of Doritos I had sitting around. Gotta love kids spending their allowance.† Dante and I were both amused by his clients' antics, but glancing over, I saw that Seth was not. Something cold clenched inside me, and I could suddenly see us through his eyes. He didn't really find taking advantage of teens under the influence of drugs funny, whether it was monetarily or psychologically. When I'd first met Dante, I'd actually been appalled by the charlatan side of his business. When had I come to accept it? When had I come to enjoy it? I felt ashamed all of a sudden and hated what Seth must think of me. Then, I became angry for feeling that way, for letting myself feel judged. He had no power over me anymore. It didn't matter what he thought. The last of the coziness between us shattered, and I felt my icy exterior slip into place. I moved closer to Dante, and Seth's body language told me he'd seen the transformation I'd just undergone. â€Å"Well, you guys probably need to go,† I said abruptly. â€Å"Yeah,† Seth said uncomfortably. â€Å"I guess we'll see you later.† â€Å"Thanks for the book.† He merely nodded and then turned to put Kayla into her car seat. Her eyes met mine and I waved a good-bye, but the look of horror on her face never faltered. I knew it was for Dante, not me, but it hurt nonetheless. Dante wanted to head home and had mostly come to give me a ride. By that point, I felt weary and emotionally disoriented. Home sounded good. We went back inside to drop off my glass and tell Doug I was leaving. Doug looked about as thrilled to see Dante as Seth had, but he said nothing that wasn't in his usual jovial style. On the drive home, I stared vacantly out the window and ran my hands over the book's cover. â€Å"You were kind of chummy back there,† noted Dante. â€Å"Huh?† â€Å"With Mortensen. I felt like I was interrupting something.† â€Å"Oh. No. I just got kind of giddy over the book. You know how much I like them.† We came to a red light, and he glanced down at the cover. â€Å"Advanced copy? We could make a lot of money on eBay.† â€Å"Dante!† â€Å"Just a joke, succubus. Well, kind of. If you ever wanted to work your wiles on him and get more books, you could start a little side business.† â€Å"I don't need any extra cash. And my wiles are no good. Things are done. He and Maddie are happy.† â€Å"That doesn't mean anything. You don't think he still wants you? You don't think he'd sleep with you if he could?† â€Å"Why do you assume the worst about everyone?† â€Å"Because it's always true. I'm trying to break you of seeing the world through rose-colored glasses.† He paused while we merged onto the freeway and headed back toward the city. â€Å"And he can want you all he wants. I don't care, as long as you don't want him back.† â€Å"There you go again, acting jealous.† I tried to keep my voice teasing in order to deflect how close he'd hit to home. â€Å"I thought you didn't care who else I slept with.† â€Å"I don't. Just so long as you don't like them better than me.† I laughed and left that as my response, indicating how foolish a notion I thought it was. And yet, as we rode back in silence, I found myself hugging the book closer and closer.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Business Models And Its Managerial Implications Business Essay

Business Models And Its Managerial Implications Business Essay A business model describes the rationale of how an organization creates, delivers, and captures value – economic, social, or other forms. The process of framing the right business model design is an integral part of the company’s business strategy. In theory and practice the term business model is used for a broad range of informal and formal descriptions to highlight its basic objectives like its vision, core competencies, strategies, infrastructure, organizational structures, trading principles, and operational processes and policies.( Changing Business Models: Surveying the Landscape, J. Linder and S. Cantrell) The essence of a business model is that it defines the ways by which the business enterprise delivers value to customers, entices customers to pay for value, and converts those payments to profit: it thus reflects management’s intention of what customers want, how they want it, and how an enterprise can organize to best meet those needs, get paid for d oing so, and make a profit. After all the future of any company lies in the value that they deliver (David Teece 2010). Business models are used to describe and classify businesses (especially in an entrepreneurial scenario), but they are also used by managers inside companies to explore possibilities for future development, and finally well known business models operate as recipes for creative managers. 2. Role and Importance Nowadays, the business models used depends on the technology levels in the organization. Top level managers have created entirely new models that depend fully on existing or emergent technology. Using technology, businesses can reach a large number of customers with minimal costs. Such is its importance in today’s world that a properly framed business model provides clarity to any business. To identify and create value from an innovation, a start-up needs a well structured business model. Business models transform latest technology into outputs at the e conomic level. For emerging firms in industry, established business models cannot be followed, therefore there is a need to frame a new business model. Not only is the business model important, in some situations, innovation lies not in the product or service offered but in the business model itself. Taking into account the complexities of products, markets, and the environment in which the firm operates, very few individuals fully understand the organization’s tasks and objectives in their entirety. The technical experts and the business experts know each of their domains clearly. 3. The Domains of Business Model The conversion process that a business does is shown in the following diagram: Technical Inputs Business Model Economic Outputs A business model covers a plethora of business subjects, which includes financial, marketing, operational and entrepreneurial strategies. The business model itself is an important determinant of the firm’s revenues to be made from an idea. A well framed business model can outshadow even a weak innovation but a weakly framed business model will hide off a good innovation. 4. Components Following are the six major elements in business models: Value proposition – a clear description of the root cause for customer need, the product that will satisfy the need, and the delivered value of the product from customer’s view.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Environmental science lab Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Environmental science lab - Assignment Example Driving my car has made it possible for me to keep my appointments since I usually arrive at my destinations on time. It is easy to travel by road because I follow the roads, which do not have a lot of traffic. Through road transportation, I am able to reach remote areas, which cannot be accessed by other forms of transportation. It is also economical to buy gas for my car. Road transport has saved a lot of lives; drivers are licensed and they maintain speed limits when driving (Reggiani & Schintler 312). There is a little chance of me to change my mode of transportation since the other modes of transportation such as water or air are not convenient for me. For instance, there are areas, which I frequently visit that do not have water or air transportation. Additionally, travelling by air or water does not guarantee me the privacy I need whenever I am travelling. It is not necessary also for me to change my mode of transport, since the other alternatives are either not readily available and they are extremely expensive (Reggiani & Schintler

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Week 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Week 1 - Essay Example Chinatown first noticeable thematic device is the presence of an anti-hero protagonist who, although is basically a good guy, makes questionable moral decisions.  Gittes comes out as the prototypical noir style detective (Miller, Vandome and McBrewster 15). He is a solitary searching hero who comes out as someone with questionable moral attitude.Gittes indecisive morals are most of the times augmented and reflected in the people that are around him throughout the film. He is the good guy of the film, but his big ego at times drives him in making decisions that are questionable. This private investigator finds himself following his ego and ends up thinking he is ahead of the rest when in real sense he is the one who has been left behind. Gittes desperation in trying to assist the femme fatale of the film results in ruining her. Apart from the inducts of the anti hero protagonist, he comes out as a good guy. The plot of this film is full of deceit, greed and murder (Miller, Vandome and McBrewster 10). The audience is told the story through the central character who happens to be a former cop turned private detective. The good guy of the film, Gittes, tries very hard to seek the truth and to try to ensure that the good morals that are lacking in some characters are restored.. He starts with a case of adultery, but ends up getting caught in the middle of murder cases as well as the lies and conspiracies that appear to be entwined into the evil side of humanity. This investigator finds himself in more criminal case when he finally meets Evelyn. He entangles himself in case of corruption and even falls for Evelyn making the issues even more complicated and leaving the viewers questioning his decisions (Miller, Vandome and McBrewster 10). China town, though a film that was shot in the 1974, still has some feelings associated with the traditional film noir style. Some of the feeling can be traced to the cinematography that has been

The Iraq war Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Iraq war - Research Paper Example The cold war was associated with near-series of close bloody engagements between the two1. The two superpowers involved the use of surrogate nations in their conflict, with Russia supporting Vietnam and the US supporting Afghan. Both the two countries lost the wars. Much of the devastation was felt by the global north countries. The Vietnam conflict resulted in 4 million deaths of Vietnamese and 1.5 to 2 million Cambodians deaths and displaced millions. To the contrary only 58,000 soldiers died with 300,000 wounded. The same situation is evident in the afghan with an estimation of almost 1.3 million deaths of Afghans and only 15,000 deaths of soviet soldiers. During soviets invasion of Afghanistan, the US through the CIA and other allied nations helped train guerilla fighters to resists the invasion of Soviet. Amongst the nations include Pakistani, Britain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and China. The then United States security advisor urged President Carter that the Afghan resistance was to be supported, meaning they were to be funded and given arms. He informed him of the importance of Chinese and Pakistani support for the rebels. Within three days of submission of the memo to President Carter, the president made a public statement through the secretary of state informing the public of suspension bilateral talks with Soviet Union on the use of atomic energy peacefully. The US Moscow embassy was instructed to cut ties with Moscow. In 1985, president Regan praised the mujahideen fighters, referring to them as their brothers.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Business and society. Critically analyze Joel Bakans argument in the Essay

Business and society. Critically analyze Joel Bakans argument in the book The Corporation - Essay Example by corporations include polluting and poisoning the environment, making people work like slaves by extending minimal wages, colluding with non-democratic and corrupt state governments to manipulate things in their way, using mafia to silence the voices of opposition. Bakan goes on to propose a range of reforms that could restore the real power back to the people. In The Corporation, Bakan introduces corporations as the instruments of evil and corruption, which could be tamed and restrained by pursuing a range of reforms. In the Chapter One, Bakan goes on to elaborate on the origins of the corporation in a historical perspective. The essence of Bakan’s argument is that in the hope of developing public infrastructure, the nations like the US and the UK allowed the corporations to own minimum liability while carrying on their work. This power of minimum liability extended to the corporations was further protected by bringing in the laws that supported and protected corporations. At a local level, the state governments and the courts of law supported and created legal instruments that protected corporations, to attract corporate investment. With the passage of time, these corporations evolved into organic concepts that exerted immense and uncontrollable power over the shareholders and the masses. Besides, the separation of ownership and control by extending shares to the shareholders allowed the corporations to carry on their business with much less control and restraint. The limited liability gr anted to the corporation was not only protected by the law, but also flowed out of the immense wealth owned by the corporations. Gradually, corporations evolved into self sustaining entities, which had the power to influence the society, but were independent of the society in their working. In Chapter Two to Five, Bakan unravels the harm caused to the society by the corporations in the form of environmental pollution, exploitation of the labor and manipulation of the laws

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Transnational IT Operations Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Transnational IT Operations - Coursework Example In addition, with the emergence of information technology particularly the Internet and e-commerce, organizations have also slowly but surely engaged in intercontinental business as these technologies have presented them wonderful tools and opportunities. The reputation of globalization is straightforwardly linked with the reputation of information and communication technology for the reason that it facilitates organizations that at one time were not capable of launching and managing business operations internationally with the prospect of competing globally. It is an admitted fact that the transnational operations can offer the businesses a number of benefits at many different stages, as well as if supervised in the approved manner, the businesses can compensate the potential challenging features that exist in this process, providing these businesses with an optimized arrangement that can change the organization into a winning business working on an international stage. There are many advantages of transnational IT operations; some of the important advantages include access to the worldwide market, elasticity, diversity, and affordable business structures. At the same time as various challenges, for instance, service levels and quality of work have usually overwhelmed worldwide businesses. In this scenario, the development of latest tools and technologies and the knowledge derived from transnational IT operations are as well very much modernizing these aspects and areas and reducing the harmful impact usually held. In this scenario, variety in the human resources also allows the businesses to gain experience and search for latest tools required to launch their products and services internationally (Marulanda, 2010; Kniaziewicz, 2008). Additionally, this diversity does not simply present an opportunity to expand customer contact by

Monday, September 23, 2019

Southwest Airlines - External Environment Analysis Essay - 1

Southwest Airlines - External Environment Analysis - Essay Example This paper will look at the Five Force Model affecting the degree of competition as developed by Michael Porter and discuss the effect of each factor on the airline industry. We will also conduct a PEST analysis for Southwest Airlines as part of the airline industry. The Porter Five-Force Model Michael Porter put forth his Five Force Model in his groundbreaking work ‘Competitive Strategy: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors’ back in 1980. In the decades that followed, he has further explored the global business arena in terms of competition, the value chain, the competitive advantage of nations and even how to create and sustain superior performance in business. Porter maintains that the five forces that affect the level of competition among firms in an industry are (1) barriers to entry and exit; (2) threat of substitutes; (3) bargaining power of buyers; (4) power of suppliers and (5) existing rivalry between firms. In the same work, Porter has also anal yzed industries as falling into one of the following five groups: (a) Fragmented; (b) Emerging; (c) Mature; (d) Declining and (e) Global (Porter, 1980). In fact, Porter’s analysis serves as a good theoretical tool to supplement a firm’s PEST analysis, which we shall now conduct for the airline industry in general and Southwest Airlines in particular. Sources-barriers to entry and exit: The high cost of entry and exit in the airline industry globally include investment in equipment, infrastructure, buildings and facilities, an experienced workforce and aircraft maintenance and inspection, insurance, safety and security features. The high cost of aircraft and fuel is also affecting airline sustainability and the bottom line (Southwest website, 2012). Sources-threat of substitutes: Alternative choices for air passengers would include fast trains, buses, automobiles and even ferry services. However, nothing beats the convenience of an airplane. Terrorist threats, luggage r estrictions and safety and security checks can also scare passenger away (Porter, 1980). Sources-bargaining power of buyers: With the Passenger Protection Act in place to safeguard customers against price hikes, and insurance, safety and security measures that must be maintained at all times, and discount prices that are eagerly picked up by bargaining customers, this puts the buyers in the driving seat on many counts (David, 2011). Club memberships and frequent flyer miles may be offered to regular passengers to help retain their loyalty, and there are often possibilities of an upgrade to a higher class if seating is available.   Sources-power of suppliers: McDonnell Douglas and Airbus Industries are two of the most well-recognized aircraft manufacturing firms having a global recognition and reputation. Both of these firms take most of the world’s orders but there are also a number of smaller firms that make smaller and lighter aircraft for other purposes.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Sarfaesi act Essay Example for Free

Sarfaesi act Essay The Securitization Reconstruction of Financial Assets Enforcement of Security Interest Act,2002 (SARFAESI) empowers banks [financial institutions to recover their non-performing assets without intervention of court. The Act provides 3 alternate methods for recovering of NPA namely- Securitization Asset Reconstruction Enforcement of security without intervention of court Provisions of this Act are applicable only for NPA loans with outstanding balance bove 1 lakh rupees. NPA loan accounts where the amount is less than 20% of the principal and Interest are not eligible to be dealt with under this Act. NPAs should be backed by securities charged to the bank by way of hypothecation or mortgage or assignment-security Interest by way of purchase and lease not liable for attachment under Sec 60 of CPC ,are not covered under this Act. Strengths of the Act- The Act empowers the Bank: 1 . To Issue demand notices to the defaulting borrower and guarantor,calllng upon hem to discharge their dues in full within 60 days from the date of notice.

Friday, September 20, 2019

History Of Public And Commercial Leisure Provision

History Of Public And Commercial Leisure Provision Leisure can be defined as the process whereby everyone gets freedom from lengthy duties and everyday jobs. Roberts describes leisure as the relatively freely chosen non-work area of life. This shows that leisure can be done anytime or when the body call for it. The demand of recreation is constantly increasing, therefore leisure providers try to do as much as possible to attract people and make all kinds of profit in all the ways they can. The leisure provision can be divided into two sectors: first one is public which is provided by the government. Torkildsen (2005, p.131) describes it as provided by a public authority or by legislation for the general use of public. The second one is commercial sector, presented by private industries that are willing to give luxury leisure in return for money. However, their aim is to gain financial profit and an adequate return of investment Tordkilsen (2005, p.193). As we have been asked to write about leisure providers in this essay we will be looking through the history of the two sectors that are involved in the topic, by discussing the different types of organizations within them and saying who benefits from it by trying to explain why these sectors run leisure facilities. History of public and commercial leisure provision Leisure existed during ancient period as part of everyday life. As soon as it attracted more people, different providers of amusement have emerged. First signs of this division are dated on 18th century. In this period aristocracy provided exclusive sport like fox-hunting, horse-racing, shooting, to those who were socially qualified Cunningham (1980, p.17). In other words, it was for wealthy people that often possessed a land. In these circumstances gentlemen (people from middle class) and also gentry (those who had independent income but no land) created their own clubs and often met in assembly rooms. Taverns and public houses provided leisure for labourers, small manufacturers and poor people. Among them the most favourite amusements were dog-fights, cock-fights or bull-beatings. The second half of 18th century to 19th has brought significant social and industrial changes, which also had an impact on leisure provision. During this time people were moving from villages and small towns to cities. It caused overcrowding, increase of crime, poverty and longer hours of work. People could not enjoy leisure and space as they used to do. The most common behaviours were drinking and gambling. That is why important reforms had to take place. The 19th century has changed peoples thinking about what the leisure really was. Reformers were deeply concerned about three different aspects which include welfare of children, urban life with no opportunity for healthy exercise and recreation and encouraging governments to act against social injustice and hardship of masses. As a result of that improvement, government has created Physical Training and Recreation Act 1937, which enabled people access to the leisure facilities. Employers recognized the importance of providing leisu re to their employees and they started to create social and sports clubs in order to fulfil their needs. In 20th century also people from working class started to demand leisure. Public baths, houses and music halls became available not only for wealthy people, but also for those poorer. Leisure gained more recognition after the introduction of cinema, spectator sports and television, which came ultimately as a result of two World Wars. Finally, in 1960 the actual picture of leisure was developed as we know it today. Different organizations within public and commercial sector In current times, we can see clear division of leisure providers. The sectors we will be discussing are public sector and commercial one as a part of the private sector. Both sectors provides leisure and recreation facilities in a wide range. Public sector organizations are those owned by the government. This can be national government or local government Tribe, J. (2005, p.26) Source: Adapted from Tribe J., (2005, p.25) Facilities which are provided by public sector are accessible to us in two different ways. First, is an access without any fee. Examples of them are urban parks, playgrounds, libraries, picnic areas, nature trails, beaches and country parks. They are supported with rates and taxes we pay to concerned authorities. The other way of getting those services is to pay in order to use them. These facilities include swimming pools, playing fields, golf courses, marinas, arts centres, theatres and sports centres. If the leisure is not provided by local authorities, it may include difficulties in affording those facilities. Young people would not have an access to their culture and usage of open land for other purposes like supermarkets and car parks etc. That is why central government provides leisure open for general use. This governing body is responsible for making decisions on major policy and establishes the way in which local government can act. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is a link between Local and Central governments. Therefore, it has significant influence on leisure itself. For instance, the ODPM is responsible for planning improvements such as increasing standards of leisure facilities. Another important department in central government is DCMS (Department of Culture, Media and Sport). This department has a responsibility of providing policy on: The Arts, sport, The National Lottery, libraries, museums and galleries, broadcasting, film, press freedom and regulation, The Historic Environment and tourism. Another sector, which is engaged in providing leisure, is private sector. Although it is divided for voluntary, which is non-profit making and commercial, our case of study will be only the commercial part of it. Private sector organizations are those which are non-government-owned. They can be further sub-divided into profit-making organizations and non-profit-making organizations Tribe, J. (2005, p.26) Source: Adapted from Tribe J., (2005, p.25) Commercial sector is a part of private sector which does not include voluntary organizations. Their activity is mainly directed to make financial profit from users of those services. They try to meet the demand of consumers but it is very hard to do it on current market. The main purpose of commercial sector is to achieve a financial profit or adequate return of investment. It does not exclude benefit in other sectors, but their predominant aims are different. Examples of commercial market are sport clubs, squash clubs, bowling, themed restaurants, amusement parks, holiday camps or cinemas. Commercial organizations do not have an intrinsic interest in leisure and recreation, in and of itself, but in leisure as a source of profit Torkildsen, G. (2004, p. 249) There is a correlation between both sectors mentioned above. When commercial sector creates new market, it tries to reach the highest level of productivity. After that, when they have to invest more money again, it is more beneficial for them to create a new market rather than invest outlay on the previous one. In these circumstances commercial sector puts strain on public sector, because the demand has been created already. If commercial sector do not want to work on it any longer, public sector is expected to do it. Commercial sector is often run by entrepreneurs. There are thousands of businesses involved in commercial sector, but they have been taken over by multinational companies. As a result of this the choices of products that are sold in the market are limited. In order to reduce risk factor in current economic recession period, business people have to sell the businesses in which they may not be good but concentrate on a vertical supply chain. Both sectors have to attract potential clients or lose profit. In the past both sectors dealt with different activities of their own range, but now they have been overlapped in most part of their business. Who benefits Leisure is something that people indulge in their everyday life; according to Doggett and OMahoney (1991, p.23) it is important because it enhances the quality of life in society. Leisure is an activity that can take place anywhere. Roberts (1978, p.125) says individuals can use their leisure for recreation. Alternatively, however, they can spend their time and money in their families, on their homes, in education and other mainstream institutions. Elaborating on this, it shows that people can choose whatever way they wanted to spend their leisure time without being disturbed. The two types of sectors we have, public and commercial, exist to give entertainment to local communities. But although they have the same assumption, they both offer various kinds of amusement (as mentioned above) and both give benefit in their own different ways. Commercial providers invest in and manage public sector facilities; the public sector offers high quality health and fitness opportunities, which have traditionally been offered by the commercial sector, while the voluntary and commercial sector are beginning to establish partnerships primarily for the benefit of customers of commercial facilities The Higher Education Academy (2005) [Online]. Still, it is mostly the people in the leisure industry that benefit the most, especially within the commercial sector, which is a dominant one in United Kingdom, as they provide leisure and service in return of money. Commercial sector is directed towards two groups of customers: those with disposable income and tourist. They as the wealthy people are able to make bigger profit for the company. This sector only give discounts or buy a package and get the other free or half price. It is a completely profit orientated part of leisure industry. However, most customers get refund, if they did not enjoy the leisure that was provided for them by the companies. On the other hand, it gives a lot of opportunities as far as employment is concerned, this sector delivers it. Moreover, it revenues income from abroad and drives development within the country. Practical advice for business [Online]. Public sector is provided by the government and local authorities in order to give equality to people, to make leisure accessible for those, who cannot afford it it raises the quality of life. Among leisure there are many sports facilities which help its users to stay healthy and fit, for example by tackling obesity. Public sector is also responsible for enabling the disabled access to these facilities. What is more, it supplies several kinds of discounts for various kinds of people. One of them is free theatre entry for people under 26 years, to encourage them to use that leisure facility and to make them more familiar to the culture. Also the elderly (over 75) have a cheaper access to many services. There are many local societies within this sector, like Woodhouse Road Family Life Centre for example, which is a group that brings together older people from the local community The Higher Education Academy (2005) [Online]. Older people can attend the meetings to have fun and remain a ctive and sociable The Higher Education Academy (2005) [Online]. So, in public sector it is not only about various facilities, sometimes just mutual support is enough. It is directed toward socially excluded people people are out of work, with low income and ethnic and disabled communities. Generally, this sector is responsible for providing leisure to everybody for free, so every participant is the one who receives a benefit. There is also a lot of support from European Union. Governments can get grants to make an improvement within their countries and local authorities are also able to develop leisure facilities within the cities. This makes citizens proud of the place they live; they have more places to go to and to entertain themselves. Such actions decrease hooliganism by reducing anti social behaviour and attract tourist and event co-ordinations. Specific reasons why public and commercial sector run leisure facilities Local authorities and societies play essential role in providing, supporting and developing leisure and sports opportunities. As local authority have different types of health services such as free consultancy and distribution of drugs (medicine) to the people in need. However local authority is the important part of a borough that keeps in touch with leisure and recreational activities. They are responsible for scheduling new improvement for protecting the environment and for improving the quality of life through local transport initiatives or better green spaces. In sort, local authorities have a significant direct impact on the success of communities. Public sectors really help to developed new supports to the people such as best athletic development and provide funding for developing new sport policies. Sports and recreational conveniences are offered by together private and public sectors. Mostly health centres and fitness clubs are organized by local authorities in the local areas. According to visitor survey by Tourism South East 2004/05 Leisure and Recreation [Online] in England about 13.5 million tourists visited The National Park. The National Park provides a most popular entertaining resource for the visitors living within and around the area, and also attracts several tourist from corner to corner of southern England and on a national scale as well. New developments within leisure also have positive impact of other ways; Leisure and recreation contributes can change the image of a city and lead to increased private savings. The main reason behind the existence of commercial sector is to make a profit. Commercial sector is responsible for delivering quality services for the people with disposable income. Also the particular facilities like swimming pools, which require a lot of maintenance, are only provided by commercial sector. The reason for the provision of swimming pools by commercial sector is that they have got sufficient amount of money for the maintenance work. As the competition is inevitable in this sector so they are concentrating more on the quality of services. These sectors run leisure services because off several reasons such as creating awareness and keeping society healthy. According to Miller the globalization of sport has also created hyper-competitive worldwide surroundings where many nations try to find their moment of fame on the world sport stage. Hoye et al, (2009, p.17). It is important that local communities have access to range of entertainment, arts, sports and recreational facilities for enjoyment. Local councils provide wide range of leisure and sports services including sports pitches, playing fields and playgrounds. Local authorities provide public parks and open spaces for older citizen and people in need. Arts centres venues and theatres, galleries and museums are also run by local communities. Local authorities also conduct various festivals, sporting and culture events. Providing leisure amenities from local establishment are very beneficial for native people. As local authorities have variety of entertainment and rel axation activities. People can find all facilities easily and cheaper then managing on themselves. Local authorities will motivate people towards healthy life style, by investing more money in sport and leisure facilities. Local authorities always have great emphasizes on promoting leisure and sports in the local areas. Conclusions After all of our considerations about the given topic, we came to the following conclusions. Leisure is not a new phenomenon; it has been existing as a part and parcel of our lives since ancient times. There is a wide range of different organizations dealing with the provision of leisure and recreation facilities. The services provided by local authorities are easily accessible to each class of community. On the other hand, leisure facilities provided by commercial sector are for those people, who have disposable income. The services provided by both sectors constitute to the high quality of life and nations health. It is beneficial to invest in both sectors as they are growing dramatically and the needs and demands of the people would be lasting in coming future. From the Travel and Tourism point of view, we can say that, tourists are able to use only a few services, provided by local authorities or voluntary sector, but they can use all the facilities provided by commercial sector as every facility is available to them after payment. As far as Events opinion is concerned, the situation here looks similar to the one above. People participating in events can enjoy those provided by both public and commercial sector equally, even if they are not citizens of given place.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Henry James The Wings of the Dove Essay -- Henry James Wings Dove Ess

Henry James' The Wings of the Dove This paper will present briefly Henry James and his thoughts about the art of fiction that is presented by his same titled essay before thoroughly analyzing his novel: The Wings of the Dove. James’ ideas on his article The Art of Fiction will be applied to The Wings of the Dove and the narrative style that he uses will be indicated by certain quotations taken from the novel. James had read classics of English, American, French, and German literature and Russian classics in translation. His models were Dickens, Balzac, and Hawthorne. Then, there is a harness of French, British, and American culture in his works. His first novel, Watch and Ward (1871) was written while he was travelling through Venice and Paris. James wrote novels that portrayed Americans living abroad during his first years in Europe. He is a very important literary figure both in American and British culture. However, he loves Europe and this fact gives us a clue about his interest in different cultures that come out as American characters traveling abroad in most of his novels. James’ approach to the civilization is presented as: Henry James, at the other extreme, never ceased to regard America as essentially an outlying region of European, more specifically of Anglo-Saxon, civilization . . . Henry James was a patriot to his race, and his final transfer of citizenship, though immediately called forth by his sense of America’s procrastination in the World War, was but the outward sign of a temperamental repatriation already complete.1 In fact, the outbreak of World War I was a shock for James and in July 1915 he became a British citizen in protest against the U.S.’ refusal to enter the war. He was sensitive on n... ...elham. The Art of the Novel. New York: Russell &Russell, 1966. Forster, E.M. Roman SanatÄ ±. Trans.ÃÅ"nal Aytà ¼r. Ä °stanbul: Adam YayÄ ±nlarÄ ±, 1985. Introductory Notes on Henry James . 14 Dec 2001 . Michalski, Robert. â€Å"Spirit and Material Possession in the Supernatural Fiction of Henry James†. 14 Dec 2001 . Myers, Cathleen. Rev. of â€Å"Washington Square and Wings of the Dove†. 7 Nov 2001 . Wagenknecht, Edward. The Novels of Henry James. New York: Frederick Ungar, 1983. Zervos, Kathry. â€Å"The Subtext of Violance in Henry James’ The Wings of the Dove: The Sacrificial Crisis†. 21 Nov 2001 . . .

Bette Howlands Criticism of Henry Jamess Washington Square :: Henry James Washington Square

Bette Howland's Criticism of Henry James's Washington Square Bette Howland, in her criticism of Henry James's Washington Square, focuses on two different aspects of the story's development. She begins by impressing on the reader how Henry James himself viewed his creation and then plunges into the history behind the plot. In doing this, she describes how Henry James has used irony to make this story his own creation. Half way through the article she changes directions and shows how Washington Square is the forerunner of his other novels. She describes how they all have the same basic plot. According to Bette Howland, Henry James never cared for his novel Washington Square. He refers to it as "A poorish thing" and "a tale purely American" (1). In fact, when he compiled his stories in his New York Edition he omitted this story from its pages. He claimed that, "I've tried to read over Washington Square and I can't and I fear it must go" (1). Ms. Howland claims that it is "a fitting irony. You might say that like Dr. Sloper in the novel, James disinherited his heroine, he cut her out of his will" (1). The author of the criticism then focuses on how Henry James received the anecdote that he would transform into his novel. Henry James twists the basic story into his own work by way of irony. Dr. Sloper is at the center of James's irony. While Dr. Sloper criticizes Catherine as a simpleton who is "ugly and overdressed" (3) he states, "I expect nothing . . . so that if she gives me a surprise, it will be all clear gain. If she doesn't, it will be no loss" (3). This is ironical because he himself played a part in her creation. Bette Howland states that while Washington Square may lack the 'supersubtle' nuances of Henry James' future novels, it "offers his irony at its most efficient. The novel is a system of ironies a closed system. . . James is always doing two things at once. Except for Catherine, the characters are always describing themselves and each other . . . and everything they say cuts both ways" (5). Bette Howland also examines the similarities present between Washington Square and The Portrait of a Lady, The Wings of the Dove, and The Golden Bowl. In the four novels, Henry James uses his favorite configuration of a triangle.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Animal Farm, by George Orwell :: Animal Farm Essays

The author of my book is George Orwell. The book I am reading is entitled Animal Farm. My book is a fiction book with talking animals. The animals rebel against Jones and his farm and how their food was low and they had to work to much to just make food for Jones and his family. The animals were victorious in gaining control of the farm. Then the pigs slowly take over the farm and slowly turn it back into just what it had been when Jones had been there. The story takes place on a farm in the country side. Old Major is the first pig and the ruler who gives all the other animals hope of a rebellion. Snowball is the pig who actually put the rebellion into affect and started the whole rules and laws to start their own farm. Then there’s Napoleon who kicks Snowball out of the farm and takes over the farm and slowly he turns the farm back into what it had been with Jones with him and his partner pigs getting lots of food for no work and the workers getting little food for a lot of work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The story starts with Old Major calling for a meeting of the animals where he tells them of the way animals should live and that he only has a few years left to live, but that the animals must carry out a rebellion one day in the future. So Old Major passes away and one day when the animals had been starved for a few days straight the animals broke into the food room and started eating the food. Jones and his men came out to fight them off, but the animals were to strong for them. The animals drove them out of the farm and declared what used to be called â€Å"The Manor Farm† into what they called â€Å"Animal Farm.† Snowball took over as their new leader and served them good especially when Jones came back with some men and guns and tried to take back his farm and Snowball took control and stopped Jones from winning the fight.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Then Snowball gets an idea that they should build a windmill that symbolizes their farm and could be used for hay storage. Napoleon, another pig who wanted to take rule, said that was a stupid idea and Napoleon went on to plant fake evidence that Snowball

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Restricted Earth Fault Protection

A Comparison Between High-Impedance and Low-Impedance Restricted Earth-Fault Transformer Protection Casper Labuschagne, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. Izak van der Merwe, Eskom Enterprises Abstract—Restricted earth-fault (REF) protection on a transformer is a subject for which there has been little attention and, compared to other types of protection, very little literature exists. Depending on the method of transformer earthing and fault location, some transformer earth faults result in only a small increase in phase current, which transformer differential protection may not detect.Conversely, the amount of current in the neutral may be sufficient to detect most or all earth faults, again depending on the earthing method. By connecting an REF relay to CTs installed in correct locations on the transformer, one can use REF protection to complement differential protection in detecting transformer earth faults. Obtaining maximum benefit from REF protection requires tha t one consider many factors, including whether to select high-impedance REF or lowimpedance REF relays. In making this selection, one should understand the theory behind each option.Historically, only high-impedance REF protection was available, because of equipment and technology limitations. Today, numerical protection relays include low-impedance REF elements for transformer protection. Both types of protection have advantages and disadvantages; the relays do not perform equally well in all applications. One key advantage of low-impedance REF protection included in a numerical relay is the ability to use CTs with different ratios and specifications without the need for interposing CTs.One key advantage of high-impedance REF is proven immunity (relay security) to CT saturation for external faults. Key to either type of protection is the ability to provide maximum winding coverage against earth faults. There is also speculation, as yet unsubstantiated, that a high-impedance REF ele ment provides superior sensitivity and coverage against earth faults. This paper summarizes the theory of classical high-impedance REF protection and new low-impedance REF protection.It also discusses issues such as relay sensitivity requirements, transformer fault current distribution, impact of fault location on relay performance (winding coverage), CT requirements, the impact of CT saturation response on REF protection elements, and application considerations for the two protection methods. current changes very little, but large current flows in the neutral conductor [1] [2]. REF takes advantage of the large current in the neutral conductor to provide sensitive and fast protection for transformer faults close to the earth point.REF protection applied to transformers may be referred to as â€Å"unit earth-fault protection,† and the â€Å"restricted† part of the earth-fault protection refers to an area defined between two CTs. Generally, REF protection can be applied in one form or another to all transformer windings, even delta-connected windings (see Delta Winding—NEC/R Earthed). On solidly earthed star windings, we will show that fault coverage is possible from the first turn above the star point, provided the REF element connects to a CT in the transformer neutral.This high winding coverage is possible because the relay operates on the high fault current in the neutral conductor instead of on the small fault current in the phase. On an unearthed star winding or a delta-connected winding without a neutral earthing compensator (NEC), winding coverage is reduced because of the lack of a neutral CT. Unearthed star windings or delta-connected winding installations provide phase CTs only (see Delta Winding—NEC/R Earthed), and the REF element operates on the change in phase current only. II. EARTH-FAULT CURRENT AND IMPACT ON SENSITIVITY A.Earth-Fault Currents in a Transformer for Different Connections When operating from the neutral C T, REF protection provides more sensitive earth-fault protection than does biased current differential protection. However, many setting engineers are uncertain as to the exact increase in sensitivity that REF protection provides. It is therefore necessary to quantify what one means by â€Å"more sensitive. † In the following discussion, we investigate the available fault current for star windings (solidly earthed, impedance earthed, and unearthed) and delta windings. ) Star Winding—Solidly Earthed For a solidly earthed star winding, an earth fault anywhere on the winding is similar to an autotransformer with a fault on the secondary side. Fig. 1 explains the phenomenon. I. INTRODUCTION Power transformers constitute the single most expensive item of primary plant in a substation. To protect this investment properly, transformer protection schemes contain a combination of protection elements, with biased differential protection widely used. Although biased ifferential p rotection provides excellent protection for phase-to-phase and most phase-to-earth winding faults, this element is less sensitive for single-phase-to-earth faults close to the earth point in solidly earthed transformers [1], [2], and [3]. For these faults, phase 2 NS x 14 Current (per unit) x Nc In In 12 10 8 6 4 Neutral Current Phase Current Fig. 1 Solidly Earthed Star-Connected Windings With Earth Fault X Per Unit From the Neutral 2 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 From Fig. 1, it can be seen that the turns ratio (TR) is as follows: TR = and In N + Ns 1 = c = Ip Nc xDistance of fault from neutral (percent of winding) Fig. 2 Neutral Current vs. Distance From Star Point in a Solidly Earthed HV Star Transformer (1) I n = I p †¢ TR = Ip x (2) Where Nc = the number of turns on the common winding (on the shorted part of the winding) NS = the number of turns on the series winding (on the healthy part of the winding) x = the distance from the neutral (p. u. ) Ip = primary side current In = fault current Therefore, for faults close to the neutral (when x is very small, on the order of 0. 1 p. u. ), the current flowing in the neutral is In = Ip/0. 1 = 10 †¢ Ip.Clearly, the change in neutral current is much greater than the change in phase current. Fig. 2 shows the difference in neutral current and phase current, plotted as a function of the fault distance from the neutral point [1] [2] [3] [4]. This curve was obtained from tests that were performed on a solidly earthed star transformer. (Because results vary for different transformer designs, the authors were unable to locate a formula that accurately describes the theoretical earth-fault current for all transformers). Fig. 2 shows that the neutral current (that also flows through the neutral CT) is always very high, in excess of 5 to 6 p. . For faults closer to the phase terminal of the star winding, there is reduced current contribution from the transformer neutral. Relay sensitivity is still not compromised, be cause the operating current through the relay is the sum of the neutral and phase current, with the phase current now higher than for faults near the neutral. Therefore, in the case of a solidly earthed star winding, relay sensitivity is not a problem for faults near the neutral because there is always sufficient current flowing in the neutral CT and through the relay and varistor to ensure relay operation. ) Star Winding—Resistance Earthed In the case of a resistance-earthed star winding, the relationship between fault location and fault current is linear, and the value of the earthing resistance determines the amount of fault current. From Fig. 1, assuming that the neutral is earthed through a resistor, we can see that the following is true: In = x †¢V 3†¢R (3) Where In = fault current x = the distance from the neutral V = the healthy phase-to-phase voltage R = the value of the earthing resistor Equation 3 presents a linear relationship between the fault location and the neutral current available to operate the relay.For small values of x, In is small and there may not be sufficient current to operate the relay. Therefore, for a resistanceearthed star winding, relay sensitivity is important for faults near the neutral. The value of x where the relay will begin operation is related directly to the relay operating current and the CT characteristics, i. e. , how much magnetizing current the CTs on the healthy phases will require. 3) Delta Winding—NEC/R Earthed In the case of a delta winding, there is always sufficient voltage to drive fault current through the fault and NEC/R.In theory, there is always at least half the phase-to-earth voltage available to drive the fault. This results in sufficient fault current, and relay sensitivity is not an issue [3]. 3 Because delta-connected windings do not have a star point, you can use the so-called balanced earth-fault connection or hybrid REF protection function in cases where the source is on the delta side of the transformer. In this case, the neutral CT is excluded from the circuit and the three-phase CTs are all connected in parallel with the relay element.The zone of protection is still only the delta winding of the transformer. The balanced earth-fault connection may also be applied to an unearthed star winding. III. RESTRICTED EARTH-FAULT PROTECTION THEORY To apply REF protection on star-connected transformers, connect the three-phase CTs in star, and connect this combination to a CT in the neutral leg of the transformer, NER or NEC, as shown in Fig. 3. These CT connections provide a path for the zero-phase sequence currents to circulate in the CTs during external faults, but they force the current through the relay for internal faults.Therefore, the REF relay provides protection for all earth faults that fall in the area between the phase and neutral CTs. Any fault outside this area should be covered by alternative protection functions. Red White Blue IFp Inp Ins Relay Ins Fig. 5 Internal Fault Indicating Operation on a Delta Winding With NEC A hybrid REF protection function may also be applied to a delta winding without an NEC. The hybrid REF excludes the neutral CT from the circuit and the three phase CTs are all connected in parallel with the relay element. This is called a balanced earth-fault connection.The zone of protection is still only the delta winding of the transformer. The hybrid REF function can also be applied to an unearthed star winding. A. High-Impedance REF Relay Element The high-impedance REF relay is normally a currentoperated relay with a resistor in series that provides stabilization. Generally, it may be one of two different types. The first type has internal resistors and has a voltage setting. In this type, the resistors are effectively switched in and out to change the setting and therefore the value of the stabilizing voltage.The second type has an external variable resistor where the setting is calculated in ohms and applied by changing the resistance of the variable resistor. 1) Design Considerations A number of design considerations must be taken into consideration when designing a high-impedance REF scheme. The most important considerations are described here: †¢ The ratio of the phase and neutral CTs must always be the same. †¢ In general, the CTs should have the same saturation characteristics. †¢ The kneepoint voltage must be higher than the stabilization voltage for external faults. The voltage across the relay and CTs (all in parallel) should be kept at safe levels while still being sufficiently high to allow operation of the relay when required. The magnetizing current of the CTs depends on the voltage across it, but too high a voltage results in higher magnetizing current that leads to a less sensitive scheme. †¢ In most cases, a metal oxide varistor (MOV) or surge arrestor is connected across the parallel connection of the CTs and relay to clamp the voltage to a safe limit, without affecting relay operation.The MOV protects the relay against high voltages developed during inzone faults. Sufficient current still flows through the relay to ensure operation [5]. Relay Relay Fig. 3 Basic Design of an REF Function Fig. 4 shows an external earth fault on the star (source) side of a transformer, and Fig. 5 shows an in-zone fault on the delta side of a transformer. Currents are in per unit. In Fig. 4, the zero-sequence infeed for an upstream red phase-to-earth fault circulates between the neutral CT and the red-phase CT, and no operating current can flow through the relay element.In Fig. 5, in the case of the in-zone fault on the delta winding, it is clear that all the fault current flows through the neutral CT (IFp = Inp) and nothing flows in the phase CT. Therefore, the secondary CT current has to flow through the relay element for this element to operate. At this stage, we simplify the scenario by not taking into account the magnetization of the other CTs. Red White Blue IF Relay IF – Inp Inp Ins Inp Inp Ins Fig. 4 ing External Fault Indicating Relay Stability on a Star-Connected Wind- 2) Setting Considerations The high-impedance REF scheme is set such that it is stable for a maximum through fault with one of the CTs completely saturated. Calculate VS, the stabilizing voltage, as follows: Vs = I f max †¢ ( RCT + RL ) n (4) Another important factor in the design of an REF scheme is the minimum allowable knee-point voltage of the phase and neutral CTs. This value is necessary during the design phase of the high-impedance REF scheme to ensure adequately specified CTs.To ensure that the CT does not saturate at the operating voltage, many engineers use a safety factor of 2. The knee-point voltage can be calculated as follows: Where Vs = the stabilizing voltage Ifmax = the maximum through-fault current detectable by the relay RCT = the winding resistance of the CT RL = the total lead resistance of the longest cond uctor between the relay and neutral or phase CTs n = the turns ratio of the CT In cases where the earth-fault current is limited through an NER or NEC/R, use the three-phase fault current as the maximum condition.With all four CTs of the same ratio, we expect the phase CTs (not the neutral CT) to saturate for external faults, because the three-phase fault current is higher than the earth-fault current. Therefore, we can ignore the resistance of the leads between the saturated phase CT and the relay. (The saturated phase CT and the relay are not necessarily near each other, so the lead resistances between them are not negligible). Phase CTs are generally located in close proximity to one another, so lead resistances between these CTs are negligible.VS is the value of the stabilizing voltage across the relay for maximum through-fault current and one saturated CT. The relay setting, Vset, is still unknown. If the voltage applied to the relay exceeds Vset, we expect the relay to operate . The most sensitive setting that can be applied is Vset = VS. Because network parameters change (higher fault current for example), Vset is usually selected higher than VS to allow for a safety margin. To ensure greater stability, one would select relay operating current greater than the sum of the healthy phase CT magnetizing currents at the set voltage.This ensures that the largest part of the secondary side fault current is used for the purpose of operating the relay and that less current is used for magnetizing the CTs on the healthy phases. Any mismatch in CT ratio will result in spill current, part of which will flow through the relay. Spill current cannot be related to current that flows on the primary side and flows on the secondary side. It may, therefore, cause the flow of â€Å"fictitious† current that results from CT inaccuracy.Not all spill current will necessarily flow through the relay; some of the current also flows through CTs (phase and/or neutral) not carr ying primary fault current. Effectively, the spill current flowing through the relay raises the voltage across the relay and CTs, causing more magnetizing current to flow. In the case of a through fault, equilibrium is reached between the voltage, relay current, and magnetizing current. Generally, relay current is far less than the operating current, as explained in the calculation of the stabilizing voltage. Vk = 2 †¢ Vs (5)Where Vk = the kneepoint voltage of the CT Calculate Iop, the minimum primary operating current (primary sensitivity) that causes the relay to operate, as follows: I op = n †¢ ( I R + m †¢ I m + I v ) (6) Where IR = the relay operating current m = the number of CTs needing magnetization (generally three) Im = the magnetizing current at the set voltage (to be obtained from the magnetizing curve test results of the CTs) Iv = the varistor current at Vs [5] From this discussion, it should be clear that the desensitizing factors are the magnetizing cur rent Im and the varistor current Iv.Use Equation 7 to calculate the actual impedance of the REF element. Because Vset is the voltage above which the relay operates, and because the relay resistance is much greater than RCT and RL, you can calculate the relay resistance as follows: RR = Vset IR (7) Where RR = the relay resistance Vset and IR are as defined above To verify correct calculation of operating current, it is possible to calculate the voltage across the relay for a specific inzone fault current. If the voltage is above the set voltage, consider this as confirmation that the relay will operate.You can calculate the operating voltage as follows: (8) n Because the relay is set to be stable under conditions where one CT saturates, it needs no additional time delays to improve security or its operation. B. Low-Impedance REF Relay Element Low-impedance REF protection is provided with new numerical or microprocessor-based protection relays. Generally, relay manufacturers employ di fferent methods to provide REF protection. In most cases, operation of the low-impedance REF protection is based on the fundamental current, after filtering removes all harmonic currents [3]. Vop = ( I op ? †¢ n †¢ I m ? I v ) †¢ ( RCT + RL + RR ) 5 The most important difference between classical highimpedance REF protection and new low-impedance REF protection is the input impedance. As with all numerical relays, the input impedance of the low-impedance REF is very low compared to high-impedance relays. For example, a lowimpedance relay typically has an input impedance of 0. 1 VA. At 1 A nominal rating, this computes to 0. 1 W. On the other hand, for a high-impedance REF relay with a voltage setting of 100 V and a 20 mA operating current, the input impedance is 5 kW. This is a significant difference.Low-impedance REF protection does not have the same inherent stability against CT saturation for external faults as does high-impedance REF protection. A second significa nt difference is that the operating current of the low-impedance REF protection is not realized by CT connection. With low-impedance REF, the relay measures all four CTs necessary to realize the element. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 show the wiring and CT connections of the low-impedance REF elements. Fig. 6 shows the fault currents for an external fault on the primary star-connected side of a transformer, and Fig. shows an external fault on the secondary deltaconnected side of the transformer. Inp Red White Blue Ins IF + A Red White Blue Ins + A Inp Ins + Fault IF + B + C N Ins Inp IF – Inp Inp Fig. 8 Low-Impedance REF Connections With Internal Earth Fault on a Star-Connected Winding Red White Blue + + C B A IF Fault IF Ins N Ins Fig. 9 Low-Impedance REF Connections With Internal Earth Fault on a Delta-Connected Winding With NEC + B + C + IF – Inp Inp Fault Location B N Ins Inp Fig. 6 Low-Impedance REF Connections With External Earth Fault on a Star-Connected WindingA very impor tant advantage of low-impedance REF protection is the fact that the CT ratios for the phase CTs and neutral CTs do not have to be the same. Most low-impedance REF relays use an operating and a restraint current. The difference between different relays from different manufacturers lies in the way these relays determine the restraint quantities and in the CT saturation detection algorithm of each relay. Note that, in the case of low-impedance REF protection, there is no inherent immunity to CT saturation, as is the case with high-impedance REF protection.The following different methods are used to determine the restraint and operating current: Use of the residual current Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic as the restraint current and the differential current Id = Ia + Ib + Ic – In as the operating current. (9) 2. Use of the residual current Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic as the operating current and the neutral current In as the restraint current. (10) From Fig. 7, it may be seen that Ia = Ib = 0 for a blue -phase out-of-zone fault on the delta side of the transformer. From this, it is clear that |Ic| = |IF| = |Ins|.From Equation 9 above, one can see that the differential current can be defined as follows: Id = Ia + Ib + Ic – In = 0 + 0 +(–Ins) – (–Ins) = 0 and Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic = –Ins This shows clearly that there is restraint current but no differential or operating current for an external fault. From Equation 9 it can be shown that the following relationships are true: Id = Ins and Ir = 0 1. Ins C + B + A Ins IF N IF Fault Location Fig. 7 Low-Impedance REF Connections With External Earth Fault on a Delta-Connected Winding With NEC Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 show the same relay and CT connections for a low-impedance REF relay.They also show the current flow for in-zone faults on the primary star-connected and secondary delta-connected sides of the transformer, respectively. 6 This means that, while there is a large amount of differential or operating current , there is no restraining current. This can be shown similarly for in-zone and external faults on the star side of the transformer. Because of the nature of the protection, classical lowimpedance REF protection cannot be used as a balanced earthfault protection on an unearthed transformer or on a transformer with only three phase CTs and no neutral CT.In short, it is because the low-impedance REF protection requires a restraint and an operating current, at least one of which is also derived from the neutral CT. When a neutral CT is not provided, a low-impedance REF protection cannot be used to protect an unearthed transformer. However, most numerical relays provide a number of protection elements for each winding. To realize balanced earth-fault protection on an unearthed star-connected transformer or a delta-connected transformer, connect the CTs as explained under Delta Winding—NEC/R Earthed, and associate the CT input with an earth-fault element in the relay. ) Design Cons iderations Because of the inherently unstable nature of the lowimpedance REF element, it may misoperate during external faults, especially in the case of faults not involving earth as phase-to-phase and three-phase faults, when one of the phase CTs saturates. Various manufacturers of REF protection relays have each developed additional supervision elements to improve security during external faults while improving sensitivity during in-zone faults. All these relays scale the CT ratios automatically between the phase and neutral CTs to compare the different values on an equal basis. ) Product A [6] [7] This relay makes use of the direction change of the operating current for in-zone and external faults. It derives a zerosequence operating current from the phase CTs (Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic) and a polarizing current from the neutral CT (In). It then compares the direction of operating (Ir) and polarizing (In) currents. CT saturation logic is necessary to determine whether any existing zero- sequence operating current is from saturation of one or more CTs during a three-phase fault, or from an actual earth fault. CT saturation detection comes from a positivesequence restraint factor supervising the REF operation.The relay compares the positive-sequence current multiplied by the positive-sequence restraint factor (generally set to approximately 0. 1) with the zero-sequence operating current. For earth faults, the positive-sequence and zero-sequence currents are equal, so the result of this comparison will always be a logical 0, indicating no CT saturation. If zero-sequence exists as a result of CT saturation, CT saturation detection asserts whenever the ratio of zero-sequence to positive-sequence current is less than the positive-sequence restraint factor.Using the reasoning that current must flow in the transformer neutral for an earth fault, the relay enables the REF element only if the neutral current exceeds a threshold. Supervising the REF element with the neutral c urrent provides additional security against zero-sequence current in the line CTs resulting from CT saturation. Therefore, the relay enables the REF element only if the line CTs measure zero-sequence current and if the current in the neutral CT exceeds a pickup setting. The zero-sequence current pickup setting is therefore also the relay sensitivity.The zero-sequence pickup must be set higher than any natural zero-sequence current caused by load, CT mismatch/spill current, or any other unbalance. The minimum operating current of the relay is 5 percent of rated current (In). The directional element then compares the operating (residual phase current) and polarizing (neutral) currents and indicates a forward or reverse direction. A forward direction indication is for an in-zone fault, and a reverse direction is for an external fault.The fault is said to be in-zone when the residual and neutral currents are in phase; it is reversed if the residual and neutral currents are 180 ° out o f phase. b) Product B The basic principle of operation for this relay is to compare the residual (restraint) current Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic with the differential current Id = Ia + Ib + Ic – In, Where Ia, Ib, and Ic = the respective phase currents the neutral current flowing in the transIn = former as a result of the fault The relay compensates internally for the difference in CT ratios between phase and neutral CTs.In addition, the relay has a biased differential characteristic that you can set in such a way that the relay is desensitized for big differences in CT specifications and subsequent quiescent spill current under normal load conditions. In this case, the relay achieves stability for a through fault by increasing the restraint current when it detects a fault. The bias setting should still be set as sensitive as possible to ensure relay operation for most faults. The biased differential characteristic of this relay has a fixed slope of 1. 05 p. u. The relay will trip if 1) Id / Ir exceeds 1. 5 and 2) Id exceeds the Id pickup or threshold setting. The purpose of the restraint function is to compensate for CT errors and mismatches and to ensure stability during maximum through-fault conditions. The latter may cause CT saturation, and the bias characteristic provides additional stability against CT saturation. The relay has a minimum operating current of 5 percent of nominal current, or 0. 05 In. c) Product C [8] Similarly to Product A above, this relay uses the residual current calculated from the three phase CTs where Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic and the neutral current In for the REF protection.During an in-zone fault, neutral current will always flow irrespective of the transformer winding connection and earthing arrangement. The residual current depends on the transformer winding connection and earthing arrangement. In this case, if residual current exists, it will be in phase with the neutral current. During an external fault, the neutral and residual curren ts will be equal in magnitude and 180 ° out of phase. The relay uses In only as the operating current, and this current is always present during an in-zone fault. The relay pro- 7 ides a stabilizing method for CT saturation for through faults. Both the current magnitude and phase of the residual and neutral currents stabilize the REF protection. The stabilizing or restraint current is defined as follows: I res = k †¢ (| 3I n ? 3I r | ? | 3I n + 3I r |) (11) Where k = a stabilization factor In and Ir are as defined previously An examination of Equation 11 for both internal and external faults reveals that there is no effective restraint for internal faults because the value of restraint is always negative for internal faults.Therefore, the relay has maximum sensitivity, and small earth-fault currents can cause tripping of REF protection. The restraint for external faults is always positive and larger than the operating current, if the operating and restraint quantities are eit her in phase or 180 ° out of phase. During CT saturation, these angles may be different, resulting in reduced restraint for external faults. To prevent reduction of restraint, the relay calculates the angle between the operating and restraint quantities and then allows operation for a certain angle range and blocks operation for another angle range.For this specific relay, the angle is fixed at 110 °. No operation is possible if the angle between the operating and restraint quantities is greater than 110 °, irrespective of any other values of operating and restraint current magnitude. The stabilizing factor (k) is equal to 2 and is fixed. The relay provides further supervision by comparing the neutral current with the sum of the magnitudes of the three phase currents and the neutral current. The relay provides a settable pickup and slope and allows tripping above the characteristic.The relay has a minimum operating current of 5 percent of nominal current, or 0. 05 In. d) Produ ct D [9] The supplier markets this product as an â€Å"earth differential function† with an additional directional check. The relay, therefore, uses a typical biased differential earth-fault characteristic supervised by a directional element. The relay calculates the bias and differential current, where the differential current is the vector difference between the neutral current (measured by the neutral CT) and the residual current where Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic.The bias current is the highest of the three phase currents and the neutral current. The relay has a base sensitivity range of 5 percent (maximum sensitivity) to 50 percent (minimum sensitivity) for the differential current. This sensitivity value is valid from 0 to 1. 25 p. u. bias current. The bias characteristic has two slopes. The first slope is fixed at 70 percent, and the second is fixed at 100 percent. The first slope is valid from 1. 25 p. u. to a point corresponding to a 1 p. u. differential current. The second slo pe is valid beyond 1. 25 p. u.The directional element uses the neutral current as a reference because direction for this current is always the same for both in-zone and external faults. The relay compares the residual current with the neutral current in the vector plane. For an internal fault, the residual and neutral currents are out of phase. For an external fault, the residual and neutral currents are in phase. For the directional element, the relay compares the second harmonic current in the neutral CT with the fundamental component. If the second harmonic current is greater than a pre-set value, the REF element is disabled.This is a form of second harmonic blocking that provides additional security against operation during inrush but increased dependability during inzone faults. The relay has a minimum operating current of 5 percent of nominal current, or 0. 05 In. e) Product E [10] This relay calculates the differential current as Id = Ia + Ib + Ic + In and the residual curren t as Ir = Ia + Ib + Ic. Restraining current is the maximum of the positive-sequence, negativesequence, or zero-sequence current in the residual current. During external faults, the zero-sequence component of the residual current provides maximum restraint.The relay calculates the zero-sequence component as the amplitude of the vector difference between the neutral and residual current. During an external fault, the neutral and residual currents are in phase, so the resulting bias will be twice the neutral current. For an in-zone fault, the residual and neutral currents are out of phase so the restraint will be less than the neutral current. As previously stated, an external phase-to-phase fault can cause misoperation because of CT saturation. The negativesequence restraining quantity provides maximum restraint during such an external phase-to-phase fault.This relay uses a method where the level of restraint increases after a number of cycles. This method ensures the most sensitive r elay operation upon energization of a faulty transformer. When the restraint increases, security improves for external faults. The positive-sequence restraining quantity is intended to provide maximum restraint during symmetrical conditions such as three-phase faults and load. The relay uses a complicated algorithm to determine the value of the positive restraint component. Discussion of this algorithm is beyond the scope of this paper.The relay has a conventional bias characteristic with a pickup setting and slope setting. Both settings can be modified. 2) Setting Considerations for Maximum Sensitivity Some product-specific setting considerations have been discussed previously in this paper. Most relays have a minimum pickup level of 50 mA. Although all low-impedance REF relays this paper discusses have additional supervision for improved security, many manufacturers recommend a pickup setting greater than the steady-state neutral current resulting from load unbalance (quiescent ze ro-sequence current).This ensures that the relay picks up for actual faults, not for load unbalance. This practice reduces scheme sensitivity, because a greater operating current setting increases the minimum primary operating current. In cases where a biased earth differential protection is provided, the bias setting serves mainly to prevent the relay from operating for external faults resulting from CT saturation and other lesser important factors. These characteristics are fairly 8 fixed, and security against operation for external faults is almost guaranteed. IV.SENSITIVITY ISSUES This paper stated previously that relay sensitivity is not of great concern for faults on either solidly earthed star windings or impedance-earthed delta windings. There is always sufficient current to drive the operating element of the relay to ensure operation. Factors affecting REF scheme sensitivity are CT quality or specification, the magnetizing current the healthy phase CTs draw during a fault, the relay operating current, and the resistance earthing of the star-connected transformer. CT performance impacts greatly the sensitivity of the REF element.Lesser-quality CTs can make low-impedance REF protection more sensitive, because the operating voltage is lower and the CTs on the healthy phases draw less magnetizing current. Equation 6 provides relay sensitivity for both highimpedance and low-impedance REF, with slight variations between the two. The equation is valid for the high-impedance REF sensitivity calculation. In the case of low-impedance REF sensitivity, the varistor current is excluded and the relay does not have an operating voltage. Therefore, the magnetizing current is not the current the healthy phase CTs would draw at the operating voltage.A voltage equal to the sum of the lead and relay resistances multiplied by the fault current would appear across the healthy CTs. The magnetizing current of all CTs at this voltage should be added to the relay operating cur rent to determine the relay sensitivity. The lowimpedance REF measuring element will develop a much lower voltage across the healthy CTs and the magnetizing current necessary for those CTs will be substantially less than for the high-impedance REF case. Although the low-impedance REF relay minimum operating current is as much as 50 mA, the reduction in magnetizing current compensates for the greater pickup threshold.For example, assume that the CTs in a high-impedance REF scheme draw 15 mA magnetizing current at the operating voltage, and the relay operating current is 20 mA. It follows then that the total secondary current should be 4 †¢ 15 + 20 = 80 mA. The corresponding primary current must drive sufficient operating current through the relay to produce the magnetizing current necessary for the CTs to operate the relay. With a 200/1 CT ratio (impedance-earthed transformer), there is an implied minimum primary operating current of 16 A.For a typical 355 A NER, the only part o f the winding that is not covered, assuming zero fault resistance, is the bottom 16 / 355 †¢ 100 = 4. 5 percent. Taking the same example, assume that the CTs in a lowimpedance scheme draw only 2 mA magnetizing current because of the lower voltage across the CTs and the relay draws 50 mA. It follows then that the total secondary current should be 4 †¢ 2 + 50 = 58 mA. With the same CT ratio and NER as in the previous example, the minimum primary operating current is 11. 6 A. Clearly, the low-impedance REF function is more sensitive in this case. However, if the CTs used with the high- mpedance REF were of better quality and the magnetizing current were also 2 mA, the high-impedance REF relay would be more sensitive. In this case, (assuming zero fault resistance) the bottom 11. 6 / 355 †¢ 100 = 3. 3 percent of the winding is not covered. The transformer protection philosophy [11] of Eskom Distribution Division requires that the REF sensitivity for resistance-earthed star -connected windings be such that it can be set to pick up for faults between 10 percent and 25 percent of the maximum available earth-fault current for an earth fault on the transformer terminals.With this in mind, one can perform the necessary calculations to determine an adequate CT ratio and whether to apply high-impedance or low-impedance REF protection. As a general rule of thumb for high-impedance REF protection, the relay operating current should be greater than the sum of the CT magnetizing currents at the set voltage, i. e. , more fault current should be used to operate the relay than to magnetize the CTs on the healthy phases. This generally ensures greater stability. V. APPLICATION ASPECTS As we concluded previously, sensitivity becomes a concern only on resistance-earthed star windings.It is only in this case that the application of high-impedance vs. low-impedance REF protection must be considered. There are two important factors that may influence the decision. A. The Quality and Specification of the Available CTs Good-quality CTs with a very steep and linear magnetizing curve indicate CTs that require very little magnetizing current throughout most of the operating range. Poor-quality CTs require more magnetizing current. Perform calculations according to the specific CTs in use for a specific installation to determine the suitability of high-impedance vs. ow-impedance REF protection for the application. Perform this calculation as described under sensitivity issues. B. The Availability of Matching CT Ratios If the existing equipment is of such a nature that the same ratios are not available for both phase and neutral CTs, you should use low-impedance REF protection, because this type of protection can handle different CT ratios for phase and neutral CTs. However, if the same ratios are available for both phase and neutral CTs, further investigation should reveal whether high-impedance or low-impedance REF is the most suitable for the applicatio n.VI. CONCLUSIONS There is a general belief among many engineers that the fault current for faults close to the neutral point of a starconnected transformer is very small and insufficient to operate the REF protection. This is true only for resistance-earthed star-connected transformers. This paper makes no ruling on whether low-impedance or high-impedance REF protection is the better method, but it 9 provides the information and methods for choosing the more appropriate relay for a particular application.REF scheme sensitivity is a problem only on star windings with resistance earthing, because the fault current is a function of fault position, phase-to-neutral voltage, and earthing resistance value. For faults close to neutral, the fault current is very small. The relay operating current and CT magnetizing current are important in determining the winding coverage. In cases where there is always sufficient fault current to operate the REF relay, the choice between high-impedance an d low-impedance REF is not important.Issues such as available CT ratios for the phase and neutral CTs may dictate the choice. For poor-quality CTs that require larger magnetizing current than a better-quality CT at the same voltage, the lowimpedance REF element is more sensitive. Where you use good-quality CTs, however, the high-impedance REF relay is more sensitive. VII. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors wish to thank the following persons for their valuable contributions: Paul Gerber for his sensitivity calculations. Mike Everton for various discussions on the topic. Veronica van Zweel for the drawings.VIII. REFERENCES GEC Alsthom Measurements Limited, Protective Relays Application Guide, 3rd edition, 1990. [2] D. Robertson, ed. Power System Protection Reference Manual, Reyrolle Protection, Chapter 6, Stockfield: Oriel Press. [3] P. Bertrand, B. Gotzig, and C. Vollet, â€Å"Low Impedance Restricted Earth Fault Protection,† in Developments in Power System Protection, Conference P ublication No. 479, IEE, 2001. [4] SEL-387 Relay Training, Restricted Earth Fault Protection, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Inc. , Rev 0. 0, July 2001. [5] P. E.Sutherland, PE (SM), â€Å"Application of Transformer Ground Differential Protection Relays,† presented at the Industrial and Commercial Power Systems Technical Conference, Sparks, NV, 1999. [6] A. Guzman and L. S. Anderson, â€Å"Restricted Earth Fault Protection for Auto-Transformers Using a Directional Element. † Available at www. selinc. com [7] SEL-387-0, -5, -6 Instruction Manual, Current Differential Relay, Overcurrent Relay, Data Recorder, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Date Code 20040628. [8] SIPROTEC, Differential Protection Manual, 7UT612, V4. , C53000– G1176–C148–1, Siemens. [9] Application Manual, ProtectIT Transformer Protection Terminal, RET521*2. 5, 1MRK 504 037-UEN, ABB. [10] T60 Transformer Management Relay, UR Series Instruction Manual, T60 Revision 4. 0x, Man ual P/N: 1601-0090-G1 (GEK-106490), GE Multilin, 2004 [11] P. A. Gerber, SCSAGAAG0 Rev 3, Transformer Protection Philosophy, Eskom Distribution Division, 2001. [12] Mini APPS Course (Analysis & Protection of Power Systems), vol 1, Section 9, Transformer Protection, 25 February to 1 March 1996. 1] Protection Field Engineer. He is currently a Chief Engineer: Protection Specialist in Resources and Strategy, a Corporate Division of Eskom Holdings Limited. He is responsible for Distribution Division National Contracts for protection schemes and equipment, general protection technology direction setting and technology management, and the implementation of Distribution Automation and Substation Automation in Eskom’s Distribution Division.He has authored a number of protection and substation automation related papers. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in South Africa. Casper Labuschagne earned his Diploma (1981) and Masters Diploma (1991) in Electrical Engineering from Vaal Tr iangle Technicon, South Africa. After gaining 20 years of experience with the South African utility Eskom, where he served as Senior Advisor in the protection design department, he began work at SEL in 1999 as a Product Engineer in the Substation Equipment Engineering group.Presently, he is Lead Engineer in the Research and Development group. He is registered as a Professional Technologist with ECSA, the Engineering Counsel of South Africa, and has authored and coauthored several technical papers. IX. BIOGRAPHIES Izak van der Merwe obtained his B. Eng (Electrical) degree from the University of Stellenbosch in 1991. He started to work for Eskom in 1993 as a  © 2005, 2007 by Eskom Enterprises and Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved. 20070711 †¢ TP6207-01