A Comparison of The Running Man and Weapons Training Essay Example

ears," and alliteration with "magazine man, pitter-patter." We can imagine the verbal attack and its subsequent psychological impact on the recruits' well-being due to the crucial delivery of these words.

The constant flow of words without punctuation in his writing imitates the quick gunfire experienced during battle. This technique intimidates readers and presents them with an aggressive tone that enables them to sympathize with soldiers enduring relentless abuse. By frequently mentioning their body parts, particularly their genitalia, the speaker emphasizes the hazards of being on the battlefield. Sexual references such as "cockpit drill," "the old crown jewels," and "turning the key in the ignition" are employed to add levity to his speech.

The soldiers develop empathy for the sergeant by experiencing the same hardships he faces, which helps them understand his aggression. Additionally, they also learn about themselves through the fear and intimidation imposed by the sergeant. Similarly, The Running Man depicts the psychological impact of war, with Tom's behavior transforming after the war and the soldiers being profoundly influenced during their training for war.

The theme of society’s expectations in The Running Man is highlighted through the relationship between Joseph and Simon Jamieson, also known as the running man. At the bus stop, Joseph metaphorically describes the running man as an 'ogre' with shuffling feet and haunted, hunted eyes. This comparison paints a vivid picture of the running man as a terrifying monster. This metaphor underscores the theme of society's expectations, as society and their neighborhood judge Tom Leyton in the same way Joseph labels the running man.

However, the relationship between Joseph and Simon undergoes changes as the

novel unfolds. This is evident in the description of Joseph studying the Running Man closely, observing his puffy eyes and stubble, as well as his father's rage against unspeakable horrors. Initially, Joseph's fear of the Running Man is depicted through his emotive surrender to sheer panic. However, as the story progresses, Joseph starts to overcome his initial judgments and sees Simon Jamieson as a lost soul.

The relationship between Joseph and the Running Man progresses positively, as Joseph attempts to communicate with him and eventually gives him his silkworm poem. This gesture indicates that Joseph gains an understanding of Simon, and this understanding is reciprocated. Both characters gain insight into each other's lives, leading to a mutual understanding. Similarly, the theme of societal expectations is expressed through the relationship between the drill sergeant and the enemy in Weapon's Training.

Using a graphic image and a mix of war jargon and racist remarks, the sergeant constructs a war scenario for his soldiers. The graphic image illustrates the sergeant informing the soldiers that they have a "number-one blockage" and new enemies on their necks, emphasizing the need for immediate action. By employing terms like "number-one blockage," the sergeant establishes credibility and reinforces society's expectation for his extensive knowledge about warfare and the enemy. Consequently, he is obligated to train the soldiers by any means necessary to secure triumph.

The sergeant employs racist language such as "mob of little yellows" and "brand new pack of Charlies" to insult the enemy and dehumanize them, aiming to reduce sympathy towards them and facilitate their killing. This racist rhetoric underscores society's expectations, as the sergeant's role is to

cultivate hatred towards the enemy, encouraging soldiers to be willing to sacrifice their lives for the nation's interest. Through the interaction with the enemy, the sergeant develops self-awareness and gains insight into himself.

In both "The Running Man" by Bauer and "Weapons Training" by Dawe, similarities can be found with the society's expectations for certain individuals. Just like Joseph, who expects The Running Man to be frightening, and society has the expectation that the sergeant will win the war. Through examining relationships, we can gain insight into ourselves and others, which is evident in both texts. These relationships highlight the brutal and violent nature of war and also emphasize the importance of human relationships in shaping our emotional identity. Additionally, they raise questions about the extent to which we should conform to societal expectations.