Last One...

Well, here we are. We have arrived at the end of the semester! Congratulations on surviving until the last week!

For this week, I would like you to post 2-3 paragraphs reflecting on what you have learned about Cuba this semester. Think of structuring this as a mini-essay of sorts: you should have a clear point that you are making, and you should back up what you are saying with specific examples.

For example, you may wish to focus on matters like generational differences between Cuban-Americans, various waves of exiles, portrayal of Cuba in literature and/or film, problems and challenges in the current economy in Cuba, etc. The list of possibilities is, of course, nearly endless! Don't feel limited. Choose whatever you have found most interesting to focus on, but also give me an idea of the whole range of information you feel you have most gained from this course.

The Power of Music

As we have continued the semester, one of the themes we have frequently talked about regarding post-1959 Cuba is limited freedom of expression. In the materials you are preparing for Monday, you will read and hear some views about the alternative music scene in today's Cuba. We will talk about the hip hop and rap scene in class and hear what some of the underground artists have to say about their own music.

For your posting, consider the importance of music in terms of freedom of expression. Why is music so crucial? What does music --as opposed to other forms of expression-- allow one to express?