Finance

Question: Discuss abouth the Corporate Communication Plan. Answer: Introduction Samsung was found in the year 1938 in South Korea. It entered into the electronics industry business in late 1960s and has expanded its area of operations worldwide for mobile phones and semi conductors. Its rapid increase in revenue has made it a noticeable company and today ranks 4th worldwide. The success can be attributed to the strong development and strategic plans it made. The economic development of South Korea is largely influenced by Samsung and it is the driving force for media, politics, and cultures. The revenue generated by Samsung is estimated to be 17% of the GDP of South Korea. It has comfortable and conveniently established itself in the global markets. As it is rightly said that bad news travels like fire, the company has to be very tactful in communicating such a critical matter that is likely to bring in a lot of negative feedback and criticisms. Communication standards and conventions in business The standards aim at the set of activities adopted by the management in managing the external and internal communications are such a way so as to maintain the favorable viewpoint of the company. The coherence, credibility and ethical value of the message need to be maintained. It helps in translating the vision and mission of the company into cohesive message value for the stakeholders. It is an integrative communication structure linking the stakeholders of the organization (Samsung, 2015). Hence, the organization follows a strong pattern of communication that helps in attaining a strong position. The aims of these standards of corporate communication are as follows: Minimize discrepancies with reference to the message that is being communicated. It ensures that the message is properly communicated and that the related parties are able to understand it with precision. Delegation of tasks of communication Formulation of effective decision-making Decision making is highly influenced with the aid of proper communication (Youndt Snell, 2004). Coordination with the government and regulatory authorities. The communication leads to a strong link between the company and the regulatory bodies which in turn provide a strong benefit. It leads to transparency and creates better understanding (Freedman, 2013). Mobilization of internal and external support. When the communication process is strong internal and external course of action is well defined and hence have a better support. The communication philosophy has to be first decided upon and then policy decisions are to be made about: The benefit of the intended audience has to be identified The key issues and hierarchy of issues has to be listed down The flow of information has to be decided visual or verbal The type of graphics and text to be used is to be identified The approved font styles has to be selected The font size has to be decided based on the hierarchy of the information Use of proper logotypes, trade names, and trademarks has to be followed The flow of communication should be directed by bullets, tables, color, left justification, etc. The purpose of these standards is to ensure consistency in the internal and external corporate communication and to maintain the corporate image by the use of communication standards. The corporate image of any organization can be enhanced with the aid of strong communication as it links the organization with the outside world (Freedman, 2013). These communication channels and protocols are used to inform and persuade people, specifically stakeholders. Therefore, a vital role is being played by the communication process. It is effective in enhancing the goodwill and improves the link up with the external environment (Nisen, 2016). Current Scenario Cell phone exploding due to faulty chargers is not a new thing. But in this case, the exploding of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 has become a serious issue. The root of the problem lies in the battery and since the phone does not have a removable battery, the company has made the decision to recall the cell phones sold both at home and abroad (Khoury, 2016). Out of several millions of phones sold, less than 0.1% of the users are affected but still it continues to be a hazard and the company is not ready for a gamble that will spoil its image. The company will have to face a lot of disclosure and transparency related issues as the customers would like to know the results of the research that have led to this problem. If the process of communication is strong it helps in maintaining a cordial relationship with the external and internal environments and contributes to the success (Kamis, 2016). Thus it is a crisis communication in this scenario. In crisis communication, the public relations aspect occupies a special position as the company tries to defend its public reputation. There is an investigation from the government agency, shareholder lawsuit, media inquiry, criminal allegation, environmental regulations violation and a host of such problems involving legal, financial and ethical standing of the company (Walter, 2016). Objective Scope of Communication Plan As a major catastrophe has occurred leading to tangible destruction, it is an irreparable damage to the reputation of the organization. It is having a significant potential impact on the financial structure of the company and hence the communication should be in such a way that the company admits its mistakes and assures that the customers will not suffer more damage (Robert et. al, 2010). The scope and objective of the communication plan are to assure that the customers will not suffer from any risks or hazards and to provide the required assistance to ensure a hassle free replacement. Any kind of assistance with reference to the return of the phone will be provided and the money will be refunded (Kamis, 2016). This is the core objective since it does not wish to fall low in the eyes of its customers. The company still seeks continued trust and hence wants to communicate the same in the best possible way. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Recall Official Company Statement It reads that Samsung has announced a voluntary recall of all the original or replaced Note 7 phones as the device gets overheated and can pose a significant risk for the customers. This recall is in accordance with the regulatory requirements. Customers owning this device have to power it down and contact the vendors or retail outlets from where they have purchased the same. The contact numbers and the online link for refund are also provided. Apart from this the company also acknowledges offering a credit of $100 upon selection of another Samsung Smartphone and a credit of $25 for the purchase of another brand of Smartphone in exchange for the current owners of Samsung Galaxy Note 7. Reception Customers have felt that the company could have had detachable batteries on the phone which would make it much easier for the company to replace. It is likely that the company is processing faster refunds in the US but same might not be the case in the rest of the world. These non-timely refunds are tarnishing the image of the company in countries like India. The problems seem to be never ending as these phones are also being banned in airplanes after a so-called safely replaced device exploded in the US flight (Katkyama, 2010). Thus the communication is not received to the best of its form and is adding worries for the company and its customers. Ethical Framework of Business communication The ethical framework requires that if the company realizes something is wrong with the product or its distribution and consumption, then it should make immediate attempts to withdraw the same from the market and not wait until complaints are lodged or regulatory authorities step in and force the company to take such steps (Dahlen et. al, 2010). In this case, there were more than 50 cases reported worldwide after which Samsung announced its decision to withdraw. This makes a few people view that the announcement of recall came in a bit late though the company might require time for investigation and research into the real causes. Identification of relevant stakeholders Samsung strives to create value for the stakeholders. The management believes in active communication with stakeholders. This helps to strengthen the relationship and bring transparency thereby leading to an effective atmosphere. The factors and interest in decision making are communicated. Further, the important stakeholders need to be updated that helps to enhance the goodwill and this can be done with the help of an effective communication process. The relevant internal stakeholders are Employees including Managers and Executive personnel Owners The relevant external stakeholders are Shareholders / Investors Customers Media NGO The Government Local Communities Suppliers Samsung uses an array of communication channels to engage in productive relationship driven conversation with customers where they are free to express their honest opinions about the matters related to the company. The communication type and pattern depend on various factors. The country of origin plays a leading role as a pattern of language differs. (Slaper et. al, 2011) The communication channels used by Samsung are depicted below: Source: 2013 Sustainability Report The receivers of communication are belonging to different countries, different cultures, and languages. Hence there are common issues like receptivity, effectiveness and perception value of the message, so on and so forth (Newman Scott, 2013). Same is the case with managing teams and people from different countries as Samsung is having an operation in almost all the major countries of the world. For instance, a message seen as critical in the East might not be perceived to be the same in the West. Hence to aid a smooth communication flow, Samsung follows the below pattern. Different Communication Styles Across cultures, the words and phrases used might be interpreted differently. For instance, in countries with English as the native speaking language, the meaning of the word yes is different from may be, Ill consider it, definitely so and the right use of right words for different audiences needs to be decided (Belch Belch, 2012). The degree of assertiveness also differs across cultures. Hence, the pattern of communication plays a leading role in shaping the destiny of the organization. It depends on from one country to another and thereby the place of operation needs to be considered to attain a better result (Sustainability reporting, 2012). Different attitudes towards conflicts A few countries view conflict as a positive thing whereas a few other countries wish to avoid it. Also the manner of dealing with conflicts in different countries. The Eastern countries like to work out conflicts quietly and also in form of written communication while in the U.S people are encouraged to deal directly and in face-to-face meetings to resolve conflicts. Hence, the perceptions matter when it comes to resolving conflict (Byford, 2016). Different Approaches to knowing disclosure Every country has a valid, acceptable and most trusted means of access to information and knowing. While word of mouth is preferred in one country, web based might be preferred in another. Acknowledging these means, the appropriate method of disclosure is selected (Ballot et. al, 2006). The ethnic, family, educational, personality differences exist in ever culture. Thus the differences in multi-lingual communication channels and requirements are respected and practiced. Samsungs formal informal communication channels The formal communication channels are through official statements announced on the website of the company or by making a press release. Formal communication is direct in nature and is considered to be authentic. The advantage of this communication is that the company accepts and owes liability and responsibility for whatever is said in the statement. It carries evidence and hence has a strong validity. The disadvantage of this method is that it cannot differ or alter or take back what is said and published. Therefore, once said or approved it will remain as it is and cannot tamper in any scenario. The informal communication channel is more of a word of mouth and grapevine started through a few contacts of the company and spread to the public. The advantage is that this provides temporary relief for the worrying customers whereas the disadvantage is that there is no responsibility or liability created as it is more of an oral communication spread through different mouths. Therefore, the informal communication cannot be considered as an evidence because it is not from a formal source. Critical Evaluation of effectiveness of Communication plan As it is very easy to protest, a few customers had started protest from the initial cases shouting slogans against the company and the miserable fact is that such incidents have occurred in different parts of the world (Khoury, 2016). Thus though the company believes and has made the best of its efforts, it is still not a complete assurance and customers are acknowledging the host of difficulties placed despite the refund and exchange process. It needs to be noted that the process of communication cannot be the safeguard once the customers have a negative notion. However, the same can be filtered and removed by the possible acts of communication in the long run. Conclusion It can thus be seen that the company has definitely suffered a drop in the sales due to this unfortunate incident which is more of a technical snag and not an intentional act by the company. Hence, the shortfall cannot be tagged as a voluntary act by the company however, the aftermath cannot be ignored. The company has also apologized for all the inconveniences caused on the appropriate media and forums. Thus the veracity and level of professionalism of the communication is vital and can possibly try to save the company (Simonin, 2016). The possible act by the company reveals that the company has tried its level best in terms of communication to save the patronage. Despite the communication plan made by the company, the damage is huge and it might take a long time for the company to revive its position. References Ballot, B., Heitger, D. L. Landes, C. E. (2006). The future of corporate sustainability reporting: A rapidly growing assurance opportunity. Journal of Accountancy 20, 65-74 Belch, G. E., Belch, M. A. (2012).Advertising and promotion: An integrated marketing communications perspective. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin. Byford, S. (2016). Samsung recalls Galaxy Note 7 worldwide due to exploding battery fears. Retrieved December 18, 2016 from https://www.theverge.com/2016/9/2/12767670/samsung-galaxy-note-7-recall-fire-risk Dahlen, M., Lange, F., Smith, T. (2010).Marketing communications: A brand narrative approach. West Sussex, UK: John Wiley Sons. Freedman, L. (2013). Strategy. Oxford University Press Kamis, N 2016, Value chain and competitive advantage of Samsung, viewed 11 September 2016, https://dewimir.blogspot.in/2012/11/value-chain-and-competitive-advantage.html Katkyama, H. (2010). Significance of Lean Management and Contribution toward Customer Satisfaction . Industrial Engineering Magazine, 47, 22-27. Khoury, R.E (2016). Samsung Galaxy Note7 global recall due to exploding batteries could be imminent.Retrieved December 18, 2016 from https://www.androidpolice.com/2016/09/01/samsung-galaxy-note-7-recall-due-exploding-batteries-might-imminent/ Newman, A, Scott O. (2013). Business Communication. Mason: South-Western Nisen, M. (2016). Acknowledge a crisis, Samsung is trying to improve its corporate culture, Retrieved December 15, 2016 from https://qz.com/288923/samsung-is-trying-to-improve-its-corporate-culture-amid-crisis/ Nisen, M. (2016). Samsung Has A Totally Different Strategy From Apple, And It's Working Great. Retrieved December 15, 2016 from https://www.businessinsider.in/Samsung-Has-A-Totally-Different-Strategy-From-Apple-And-Its-Working-Great/articleshow/21250813.cms Robert C, Brian H.L Paul C 2010, How to Understand Business Finance, Kogan Page Limited Samsung. (2015). Samsung: Annual report and accounts 2014, Retrieved December 15, 2016 from https://www.samsung.com/se/aboutsamsungfile/SAMSUNG_SUSTAINABILITY_REPORT_2015_ENG.pdf Samsung. (2016). Samsung Corporate profile. Retrieved December 15, 2016 https://www.samsung.com/us/aboutsamsung/corporateprofile/ Simonin, D. (2016). International Strategy: The Strategy of Samsung Group. Retrieved December 15, 2016 from 2016,https://www.researchgate.net/publication/285370984_International_Strategy_The_Strategy_of_Samsung_Group Slaper, T. F., Hall, T. J. (2011). The Triple Bottom Line: What Is It and How Does It Work? Indiana Business Review. 86(1), 6-10. Sustainability reporting. (2012). Using sustainability to drive business innovation and growth 2012, Retrieved May 30, 2016 https://www.deloitte.com/view/en_IN/in/index.htm. Walter, D. (2016). Official recall for exploding Galaxy Note7 phones coming, Samsung and US confirm. Retrieved December 18, 2016 from https://www.greenbot.com/article/3119205/android/official-recall-for-exploding-galaxy-note-7-phones-coming-samsung-and-us-confirm.htmlYoundt, M. A. Snell, S. A. (2004). Human resource configurations, intellectual capital, and organizational performance. Journal of Managerial Issues, 16(3), 337-36

Karma And Samsara Essays - Shabda, Reincarnation, Indian Philosophy

Karma And Samsara The belief in Karma and Samsara form the basis for the Hindu's religious worldview. It has been central to Hinduism for thousands of years, and as a result forms a major part in the philosophical thinking of many Hindu's today. The ideas of Karma and Samsara are evident in almost all of the great Hindu scriptures, being touched on in the Veda's, but first properly introduced in the Upanishads. When the idea of Samsara was first introduced it led to a quest for liberation through the practice of austerity or meditation or both. To be released form this life the Hindu's needed to wipe out the effects of their past actions or Karma. It is this set of beliefs that formed the background of many of Hindu's religious movements and beliefs. Karma is the belief according to which a person's future life is determined by past and present actions. Every action, bodily, intellectual or ethical, good or bad, big or small will have its effect. Nothing other than the effects of earlier actions has determined the present state of affairs and nothing other than the present actions will determine the future circumstances. The law of Karma allows no room for chance or divine intervention as everything is inevitably determined by it. The Brhardaranyaka Upanisad simply sates ?By good actions one becomes good, by bad actions one becomes bad?(4.4.5) (Koller 1982: 59). Intertwined with belief in Karma is the idea of Samsara, which is the cycle of repeated births and deaths that subjects an individual not merely to one death but to innumerable deaths (Koller 1982:9). Hindu's believe that as a person dies the Atman (the unconscious, immaterial part of a human) carries the results of their good and bad actions (Karma) into their next existence. This previous Karma will determine what sort of position a Hindu will occupy in their new existence, for example, if a person in a low caste has been very good in their past existence they will be born into a higher caste in their next life. The ideas of Karma and Samsara have justified the unequal Caste system, which has been an integral part of Indian society for hundreds of years. At the time of the Rig Veda (the earliest Hindu scriptures around 1000 B.C.E) (Smart 1989: 60) the key concepts of Karma and Samsara had not actually been stated. However, it does mention that a person's conduct in this world determines his life after death. The brahmins (the religious leaders) stressed the importance of the sacred act of sacrificing which was supposed to have a bearing on man's fate in the next world, and consequently the Satapatha Brahmana 11.1.8,6, states that ?the Sacrifice becomes the self of the sacrificer in the next world?(Stutley 1985: 23). So, even at this early stage of Hinduism, the idea of Karma played an important role in the Hindu's worldview. It was not until the Upanishads (the principal ones dating from 800-400B.C.E) (Smart 1989:49) that we first meet with the doctrines of Karma and Samsara. The Upanishads are concerned essentially with the meaning of the sacrificial rites, and come to the conclusion that knowledge in the ?true reality' is the key rather than expertise in rituals like the Rig Veda's were. In the process they introduce profound metaphysical and religious ideas, such as Karma and Samsara. The Chandogya Upanisad sums up the ideas of Karma and Samsara ?those who are of pleasant conduct here the prospect is indeed that they will enter a pleasant womb, either the womb of a Kshatriya or the womb of a Vaisya (high Indian Castes). But those who are of a striking conduct here the prospect is indeed, that, they will enter the womb of a dog, or the womb of a swine, or the womb of an outcast?(Lipner 1994: 45). The central concept in the Upanishads is that of Brahman. Brahman is the highest truth, the eternal being on which all other beings depend on. Brahman is the same as the atman, in other words, that ultimate being out there, is the same as that eternal something within you. The goal for many Hindus became at this time to gain Moksha (release from Samsara) which

cavalry essays

cavalry essays Throughout time horses have played an important role in society. Since their first introduction, they have continued to prove that they are a valuable asset. The horse fulfilled this role durning the middle ages to almost a key, in both personal and state affiars. It was in state affairs during the middle ages that the Cavalry rose to become an important part of the battle stratagies of medieval commanders. The unit of choice went from Northren Europes intialy based infantry system into a largely dependent cavalary based system. During the cavalarys rain as quaterback of the medieval battlefield, it did not go through untouched, but took some setbacks from certian counter messures designed to combat cavalary . Despite these setbacks, the cavalary managed to maintian it's high level of importnace in medieval battle stratgy. The rise of the calavary in western Europe began for a number of a reasons that all happened around the same time. One of the most influintial of these events was the lose of the Franks to the Romans in 554 A.D. . This lose lead to an increase in the overall size of the average westren European cavalary . It was at this battle that the infantry based Franks faced a tough defeat at the hands of the Romans. The Romans of that day unlike their opponents had come to the battle field with a wide variety of tatical units at its disposal. The unit that proved to be the most effective of them all still was the cavalary, both that day in 554 A.D. and for many future days in European warfare . These horse and rider tandums of the Romans proved to be effective both as heavy cavalry, and mounted archers agianst the Frankish footmen. It was then after this deafeat during the sixth to ninth century that the number of cavalry units per solider in the Frankish military system began to inc rease. Not only were the Europeans at the time taking lessons from the Romans in the benifiets of a strong cavalry, ...

The killing of U.S resident Anwar al-Alwaki Research Paper

The killing of U.S resident Anwar al-Alwaki - Research Paper Example The American government tried to keep the matter a secret but the choice to hunt and murder Anwar became an issue of public debate and scrutiny. Some American wondered the limitation of the powers of the president if he can order the killing of Americans abroad based on secret intelligence. It is significant to note that the killings of Anwar in Yemen brought in new information about the intelligence, military and legal challenges that the U.S government faced. This is because it shows the risks or perils of war, depending on missile strike from drone rarely recognized by the U.S citizens and intricate justifications written for only a selected few officials to read (The New Times, 2013). Â  It is believed that Anwar al-Alwaki and Samir Khan who killed in the drone strike were al-Qaeda operational leader in Yemen. The two were U.S citizens who had never been accused by the American government nor indicted with any crime. The secrecy behind such drone strikes emerged as major issue b ecause of the legal and ethical issues involved in the killings (Wilson Center, 2012). Â  Information from the U.S department of Justice asserted that the drone missile strike that killed Anwar, an Al-Qaeda affiliate whose death was justified by the government, also murdered Samir Khan, who the officials had asserted was a real danger capable to warrant being specifically aimed or targeted. The killing of Anwar in Yemen was justified and ethical because Anwar was an evolving danger or threat in that by the moment the U.S. and Yemen intelligence found him, he had been under the watch list of the C.I.A for more than ten years. For instance, in 1999, he was the first to appear on the F.B.I list because of his link with militants and in 2001, after the attacks in the U.S, he interrogated by U.S officials about his association with the hijackers at his mosque in Virginia and San Diego. In addition, when Anwar left the U.S in 2001, he supported the idea that the United States was officia lly at war with the Muslim community. In Yemen and Britain where he was jailed for eighteen months, Anwar hinted closer to a full support of terrorist activities and the use of violence (Mazetti & Scott, 2013). In 2008, the F.B.I asserted that their investigations have revealed that Anwar al-Alwaki was growing up as a radicalizer. In 2009, when Nidal Malik Hasan serving as a psychiatrist in the U.S army opened fire, murdering thirteen people in Texas, Anwar found his popularity when investigators found out that he been occasionally communicating with Anwar al-Alwaki. After four days,

MIS - Global Projects Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MIS - Global Projects - Research Paper Example Oracle Corporation is ranked at position three in terms of earnings in the global software industry. The most common software products from the company include its supply chain management, customer relationship management, and enterprise resource planning software (Monk and Wagner, 2012). SAPAG is a German multinational company that is considered among the largest software companies in the World. The company mainly specialises in creating software solutions that help companies run their core functions in a much better and efficient manner. The company is revered for its enterprise resource planning software, the SAP business warehouse, the SAP business object software, and the SAP HANA (Monk and Wagner, 2012). Considering that Dual-Tech Inc specialises in the distribution and selling of electrical appliances it means that it is more likely to handle contracts and projects that are based in overseas markets and therefore, the business in general and the management team will need certain business software applications in order to smoothly run their global projects. One of the business considerations that Dual Tech’s CIO would take into consideration while deciding between Oracle and SAP solutions for global projects is the cost associated with each solution. Since businesses are inclined towards, reducing cost whilst maximizing profits it is widely expected that the management would advocate for cheaper solutions. In the survey conducted by Krigsman (2012) it was noted that SAP solutions are usually expensive and hence the reason why despite being frequently short listed in most tenders compared to Oracle and Microsoft dynamics they are rarely chosen by the buyers. Therefore, SAP will be costly to Dual-Tech Inc but the CIO will make his selection considering other factors as well. The management will consider the usability of the two software solutions or the

Paired Reading Essay Example for Free

Paired Reading Essay Paired reading is a research-based fluency strategy used with readers who lack fluency. In this strategy, students read aloud to each other. When using partners, more fluent readers can be paired with less fluent readers, or children who read at the same level can be paired to reread a story they have already read. Paired reading can be used with any book, taking turns reading by sentence, paragraph, page or chapter. Share your examples! Why use paired reading? * It helps students work together. * It encourages cooperation and supports peer-assisted learning. When to use:| Before reading| During reading| After reading| How to use:| Individually| With small groups| Whole class setting| How to use paired reading How to pair students Pair students either by same reading ability or by high level readers with low level readers. Use the following steps to pair high-level readers with low-level readers: * List the students in order from highest to lowest according to reading ability * Divide the list in half. * Place the top student in the first list with the top student in the second list * Continue until all students have been partnered * Be sensitive to pairings of students with special needs, including learning or emotional needs. Adjust pairings as necessary * The reader from the first list should read first while the reader from the second list listens and follows along * The second reader should pick up where the first reader stops. If additional practice is needed, the second reader can reread what the first reader read * Encourage pairs to ask each other about what was read. What was your page about? What was your favorite part? Implementing the strategy 1. Introduce the students to the Paired Reading strategy. This includes: * Establishing a routine for students to adopt so that they know the step-by-step requirements for engaging in paired reading (i. e. Will they read out loud, simultaneously? Will they take turns with each person reading a paragraph? a page? Or will one person read while the other person listens? ). * Teaching students an error-correction procedure to use when supporting each others reading (i. e. re-reading misread words; signals for difficulty). * Modeling the procedure to ensure that students understand how to use the strategy. 2. Ask students to begin reading in pairs and adjust reading speed if reading simultaneously so they stay together. 3. Have students offer feedback and praise frequently for correct reading. 4. Monitor and support students as they work.

Seamus Heaney & Tony Curtis Essay -- English Literature

Seamus Heaney & Tony Curtis On initial reading both the Follower and Strongman are simply about a son's relationship with their father. Whilst this relationship is a central theme of both poems, the poems also explore a range of issues including cultural identity, guilt and social class. This essay will attempt to analyse both poems individually and to also identify areas of conflict and similarity between the poems. The first two words of Follower by Seamus Heaney are "My father" which immediately establishes the poet's emotionally involved relationship with the subject of the poem. In contrast the poet of Strongman writes in the third person for the majority of the poem and it is only really in the last two lines that the poet establishes that he is addressing the poem to the son. Both poems create a vivid picture of physically strong fathers who draw on their physical strength by undertaking skilled manual jobs to support their families "My father worked with a horse-plough" and "A carpenter who could punch nails into wood with a clench fist". Seamus Heaney employs the use of a number of sea images in helping the reader to visualise the immense strength and stamina of his father's body "His shoulders globed like a full sail strung" and "Sometimes he rode me . Dipping and rising to his plod". Similarly Tony Curtis employs powerful visual imagery to illustrate the father in his poem as the pivot of a roundabout with his five sons as seats/chairs swinging from his arms as he "would stretch his arms and hang his five sons from them, turning like a roundabout". This is a very successful simile as it encapsulates the swinging motion of the father playing with his children and on a deeper note the fathe... ...man focuses on the reversed roles of the father and son. The original role of the father as the provider and central axis in the family has now disappeared to the extent that it is now the son who not only cares for the father physically but also emotionally as he reassures the father with "No trouble - he said, no trouble, Dad". The final likes of the poem encapsulate the indignities of sickness and old age. The use of minimalist, stark language, without the use of unnecessary adjectives heightens the poignancy of the last lines. In conclusion both Follower and Strongman are brief but effective poems that successfully portray father - son relationships. The readers are allowed an intimate snapshot/glimpse into these relationships. Both poems describe the permanent bonds between fathers and sons whilst also effectively addressing how these bonds evolve.