Research Journal #2

Merriam-Webster defines eulogy as "writing especially in honor of one deceased". This genre, while especially pertaining to death, also can be delivered at retirement parties, anniversary parties, and birthday parties. Kind of morbid, isn't it? To write a eulogy for someone that hasn't died, but hits a certain milestone that gets them a step closer to that point.

George P. Bush's eulogy of his grandfather George H.W. Bush is a really good example of a eulogy. Looking beyond all the political stuff, this eulogy has a way of reminiscing about touching, personal moments between a grandfather and his grandson, and more public occurrences of the former President. What I find most interesting about this particular eulogy is how it is apparent that the speaker doesn't share all the same beliefs with the topic. When George P. Bush says, "my grandfather was thankful for his god", his wording concludes that he doesn't necessarily believe in the same things that his grandpa did. I find this interesting because it could be useful towards my final UGP and how I approach my topic. Also, Bush addresses the audience, and I find that to be important. In my eulogy, I will address the audience, but I first must find who my audience is.

After focusing on a specific example, I honestly am a little more confused about how to approach my writing in a way that is respectful to the eulogy format, as well as conveys my ideas. Is it too insensitive to write a eulogy that reminisces about the things lost in education? Is it too inconsiderate to insert a twinge of humor throughout my writing? I want to be true to the genre, but I also want to be true to my beliefs.