Analyzing Informational Text: Michael Phelps and the Concept of Perfection
In this text, we learn about Michael Phelps, the greatest swimmer of all time, and how his body is unique when compared to the idea of physical perfection, like Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man. The Vitruvian Man represents an ideal human form, where the proportions of the body are perfectly harmonious. But when we look at someone like Phelps, it becomes clear that perfection can be defined in different ways.
First, the text tells us about Phelps' physical characteristics. He is 6 feet 4 inches tall, but his legs are the same length as someone who is only 5 feet 10 inches. This means his body is kind of like a puzzle where some pieces don’t fit the usual picture! His arms are long, and his wingspan is actually longer than his height. This is important for swimming because long arms can help him paddle through the water more effectively.
The text raises interesting questions about what “perfection” really means. Can we say that Phelps’ body is imperfect just because it doesn’t match the traditional idea of a perfectly proportioned human? The article suggests that maybe perfection isn’t only about how someone looks, but rather how well their body functions in its environment.
This is compared to rabbits in different settings. The white rabbits are harder to see in a snowy environment, while the brown rabbits are better camouflaged in a field of dirt and grass. Neither color is perfect all the time, so what matters is how well each rabbit survives in its own surroundings. Just like the rabbits, Phelps’ physical abilities help him function better in the swimming environment, even if his body doesn’t look like the “ideal” form.
In conclusion, the text argues that Michael Phelps’ body, while not fitting the classic image of perfection, allows him to excel in swimming and achieve great things. It makes us think about how we define perfection in humans. Is it about appearance, or is it about how well we can adapt to what we need to do? This discussion challenges us to look beyond just looks and consider how well a body works in life.