Speech on Changing Perspectives

It is known that one of the most talked about, and perhaps most nerve racking things about completing high school is not what uni you get into. It is not what car you're going to buy. It is not where you're going to work. It is not girlfriends, careers, new friends or looking for an apartment to rent. It is not any of these things, but it is all of them. It is transitioning from high school, a set and controlled environment into the urban jungles of Sydney, where the rules are very different. The prospect of coming into the world its tough, challenging and frightful. But despite all this, one can't help but feel a burst of adrenaline as the transition begins. However there is a larger problem, one that few people face, which is much more challenging that beginning life in the new world. This problem is returning to life after your prosecution has ended.

I'd like to relate this experience to a visual text, perhaps one with which some of you are familiar. Tony Kayes American History X is not a fairytale about a highschooler starting university. The notions represented within the text are certainly controversial ones. The transition is told via a linear narrative structure, with flashbacks being shown in monochrome. Derek, a former Neo-Nazi has just been released from prison back home where he is a god to some, including his little brother, and a menace to society for others. Dereks ideologies are juxtaposed with his former notions, as shown by the visual juxtaposition of flashbacks in tie with the narrative. Back into society, Derek tries to undo his past wrongs, including stopping his brother from making the same mistakes he made. It is this notion of coming back into society with a different mindframe that possess a challenge for Derek, as he is previously known as 'the ultimate skinhead'. For todays society, once an image is formed about a specific person, such as a celebrity, it becomes very difficult for the individual to change their public image. For examples, please look towards Lindsay Lohan, Kim Kardashian and etc.

In conclusion, it is safe to say that although this transition of returning is difficult, we as a community to not make it any easier. Will a murderer ever be forgiven? Will a former cocaine addict ever be fairly judged? For how long do these men have to ensure the injustice, after they've paid their dues? Unfortunately, in this context, the answer to that question might be forever. Thank you for your time.