QUESTION
Assignment: Reflective Essay/ Descriptive Essay from a 17 year old girls’ perspective in the United States
The works we’ve read so far in Unit One have been both difficult to understand and hard to relate to. We don’t typically go on sea voyages anymore, or gather in mead-halls, or hide away from humans in forests. But it would be a mistake to assume that you can’t relate to Old and Medieval English literature. All of these works also demonstrate universal themes and deal with emotions and experiences we recognize today: the loss of a home or a way of life, the need to stand up to evil, the need for community, and taking long, life-changing journeys.
Choose one of the prompts below and develop a two-page (400-500 word) response that links thematically and updates one of the classics we’ve read. You do not have to discuss the classic text since each prompt is already thematically linked to the classic. For example, when you write about loss (Prompt #1), you’re connecting to the feeling of loss explored in The Wife’s Lament. If you write about the coffee house (Prompt #2), you’re addressing the themes of friendship and camaraderie found in Beowulf, and Prompt #3 deals with a time you felt alone or misunderstood as seen in Grendel. A good rule of thumb is to fully address the prompt as it’s worded.
This is an informal writing assignment, so feel free to get creative and have fun with this assignment, or to get personal and expressive. You are welcome to use first person (I and we) and to write this in any form you choose — poem, short story, letter to the editor, journal entry, blog post, or newspaper article— as long as your writing meets the minimum word count.
Choose one of the following prompts:
PROMPT#2: You are trying to open up a restaurant / coffee shop that will become a social gathering place for your friends and peers. You want this place to be really cool — but also a place where people can relax and get comfortable. What kind of establishment will you open? How will you get people in the doors? What will they do once they get there? How will you keep them there for long periods of time and keep them coming back? Write a description or story of your ideal social meeting place. (If you write about the coffee house (Prompt #2), you’re addressing the themes of friendship and camaraderie found in Beowulf * see attached PDF)
ANSWER
My Ideal Social Gathering Place: A Coffee Haven for Connection and Comfort
Introduction
As a 17-year-old girl living in the United States, I envision creating an inviting and trendy coffee shop that serves as a social gathering place for my friends and peers. This establishment will be a haven where individuals can relax, connect with others, and find comfort in their daily lives. In this essay, I will describe my ideal social meeting place, highlighting its unique features, strategies to attract customers, and the experiences they can expect once they step through the doors.
Description of the Coffee Haven
My coffee shop, named “Bean & Brew,” exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a blend of modern and rustic decor. Warm, earthy tones dominate the interior, complemented by soft lighting and comfortable seating arrangements. Natural elements like potted plants and wooden accents add a touch of nature, fostering a calming ambiance.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, enticing visitors as they enter. Bean & Brew offers a wide range of high-quality coffee blends sourced ethically from various regions worldwide. To cater to diverse preferences, the menu boasts an array of specialty beverages, including unique flavored lattes, invigorating iced teas, and healthy smoothies made from locally sourced ingredients.
Engaging Customers and Building Community
To attract customers and cultivate a sense of community, Bean & Brew employs various strategies. Social media platforms serve as a digital hub, where we engage with customers through interactive content, exclusive promotions, and a loyalty program. The shop’s website features a community forum, providing a space for customers to connect, share experiences, and organize events.
Bean & Brew hosts regular events such as open mic nights, poetry readings, and live music performances, showcasing local talents and providing a platform for creative expression. Additionally, workshops and educational sessions on coffee brewing techniques and latte art are offered to foster a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Creating an Inviting Experience
Once customers step inside Bean & Brew, they will find an inviting space that encourages both relaxation and socialization. Comfy nooks with plush couches and bean bags provide cozy corners for intimate conversations or solo moments of reflection. Long communal tables foster a sense of camaraderie, where individuals can work on projects, study together, or engage in lively discussions.
The shop offers a curated selection of books, board games, and puzzles, providing opportunities for intellectual stimulation and entertainment. Free Wi-Fi is available to accommodate students and professionals seeking a productive environment. A dedicated quiet zone offers a serene space for introspection or focused work.
Conclusion
In my vision of Bean & Brew, I aim to create a vibrant and inviting social gathering place that caters to the needs and desires of my friends and peers. This coffee haven prioritizes friendship, camaraderie, and comfort, offering a respite from the demands of daily life. By fostering a sense of community, providing diverse experiences, and embracing creativity, Bean & Brew aspires to be a cherished destination where individuals can relax, connect, and find solace in the company of others.