Final Draft Author's Note

1. This is my final draft of my analysis of a public space.

2. The suggestions and changes concerning word choice and vague pronouns definitely strengthen the piece. The piece comes across as more clear and focused for the reader, strengthening the argument.

3. I hope my argument makes you ponder that which is truly “Zeke’s” and makes you smile in the process.

First Draft Author's Note

1. This is a first draft of my analysis of a public space.

2. I like this piece because – while it was academically driven – it was also personal. I am worried about this piece because it definitely steps out of the type of writing to which I am accustomed as a film major (which is far less formal and structured completely differently) and as history minor (more formal and rigid).

3. Please mark at least three things that you like and at least three things I really need to work on.

Meaning of Space for Local Community

Zeke’s is there for the neighborhood. It gives the locals a place to go where they won’t be disturbed when they don’t want to eat at home. No one bothers you; someone may just say “hey,” but that’s the extent. If you talk, it’s to the waitresses. One waitress in particular has been there a long time. She’s the anchor; she’s the person who makes it all happen in an orchestrated way.

Zeke’s is also there for comfort – food and familiarity. The fish is fried and so are the fries and hush puppies and everything else. You definitely aren’t going there for a healthy experience. It’s just to feel good. Everyone seems to know what they want without giving it much thought. That’s way makes it comfortable – people know they can get what they want.

Observation Experiences

My experience at Zeke’s was not out of the ordinary. I always order the same food, and the same waitress was on duty. However, I must say that it was interesting to look at a place that I’ve been to thousands of times in an analytical way. I had never noticed how dated everything seemed to be. The paint was fresh, but the décor was definitely classic time period stuff. I’ve also never looked at the people quite so closely. Zeke’s is the type of place you go because you know everyone there has been there as many times as you have, so you don’t look around. The ages varied as well as their backgrounds. People there look like they were eating at home – reading the paper, a few cuss words flying, and couples ignoring each other. However, I did spend a bit more time in the area where you place your order. It’s like a circus tent before the audience gets there – lots of characters and decorations and laid back happenings.

Public Space Analysis Proposal

The public space I am choosing is Zeke’s Fish ‘n Chips located off Camp Bowie and Bryant Irvin. I decided on this space for several reasons. First, I have been eating there for quite a while with my family. We moved to the Ft. Worth area about 12 years ago, and we’ve been customers from the beginning. Second, I lived in that area for a couple of years, so I also spent time there with friends. Everyone seems to like it. Because of the amount of time I’ve spent there, I think I can develop a strong argument.

I plan to observe the space either Tuesday, February 10, or Thursday, February 12. I sometimes meet my family on Thursday nights for dinner, so perhaps this date will be best. I plan on being there for the dinner crowd as it seems more varied.

I’ve never looked at Zeke’s analytically, so I’m sure I’ll be surprised at my observation. Sometimes it’s best if you don’t look too closely, so I hope I’m not turned-off to the place after this. I know I’ll probably touch on the location and the building. Most of the people I know are aware of Zeke’s because of its sign on top of the building. It’s a Ft. Worth landmark.