#-some of mind and heart's lines in the soul eclectic

[minnowpebbles]

// first off thank you to folly (peachphernalia) and sunny (sunnydayaoe) for discussing these interpretations with me ^_^ i think folly pointed this one out to me specifically a little while ago so it isn't my idea, but I have thought about it a ton since sun mentioned it. also, here's the lyrics doc I'm screenshotting from. I would like to pitch in another potential occurence of this same phenomenon happening this time on Heart's end in Just Apathy-- there are multiple lines where it's super odd for Mind to be singing and/or times when the self/the other become blurred enough that you have to wonder if it's really Mind or if the entire song is Heart

Here, for instance, the ending of Just Apathy, is the most glaring example. Why would Mind call the apathy "his"? Who is "you"? One could argue that Mind is saying Heart is scorning his imposition of "apathy" (if you follow that interpretation) but the wording is still really strange; for him to claim that Heart's apathy is "his" despite going back on this in TME and calling apathy Heart's own undoing is too counterintuitive, even for Mind. Since claiming that Just Apathy doesn't have Mind in it at all based on two lines is too cursory for a well-rounded argument, let's look at another example (light purple text represents Heart and Mind singing together):

Mind sings these lines that are very specifically tailored to Heart, including his established inclination towards violence and his blindness. "Silence" here is another euphemism for apathy; again! There's no reason for Mind to suddenly claim apathy as his.

Also, very strikingly, "Be Born" and "Just Apathy" are only blue and only purple respectively on the whiteboard. The same can be said for Storm and a Spring.

As for how this changes the song, I think it actually brings to light a more intimate view of Heart's perspective. The soft, crackly voice at the beginning of Just Apathy is a vocalization of Heart's own introspection. Here are the lines in question, just to make sure we're on the same page.

Notably, the way it is captioned in the video resembles Soul's imagery (black lettering; Heart's, over a background of gray static; normally, a staple of Soul's). However, the lines have no connection to Soul; similar to the hoarse words whispered in "Good Day", I believe (mostly without foundation) that Heart uses the similarity of his voice to Soul's as some sort of moral leverage (I would add "against Mind", but since he is alone in Just Apathy, as we've established, he's only justifying this to himself). But I digress. When Mind comes in, the conversation he has with Heart is far more subdued than their normal arguing in, say, TSE.

In the description of Just Apathy, Mr. Jash surrounds "I don't care" and "It's all good" in quotation marks just as they are shown here. Their inclusion is, functionally, to provide a sort of self-awareness to Heart saying these lines---a self awareness that goes hand in hand with the way he depicts Mind in this made up back-and-forth dialogue. Straying into unfounded personal opinion territory here again, but I don't think Heart would ever admit all of this if his opponent was truly Mind; in this case, it seems more likely that Just Apathy is a personal confession of Heart's doubts and his way of inwardly genuinely entertaining Mind's criticisms of him in a self-critical way. Also, listen to how Mind's voice is unusually raspy in the entirety of Just Apathy. It seriously sounds like he's about to burst into tears, especially in lines like "then stop acting like it". I don't remember Mind getting this shaky even in TME. It doesn't truly sound like him, if that makes any sense at all. anyway. obligatory disclaimer that this is all speculation and there's no one correct interpretation :-)

Do y’all remember that post that talked about Be Born being a solo song and not a duet?

I believe the original theory was that it’s Minds real voice shining through the deep synthetic one, but a good friend gave me another theory and it keeps shooting me in the face every time I listen to this song.

What if it’s not Minds ‘true’ voice, but an imitation of Hearts? He’s replicating Hearts voice and singing as him to prove that he can handle doing Hearts ‘job’ for him as well as to mock him.

“I can do the same things you do but better.” Type of thing. He’s quite literally taking over Hearts responsibilities, including his voice.

And then she threw another idea at me……. What if he does it because he misses Hearts voice in apathy and subconsciously copes by singing with it. I KNOW IT SOUNDS CRAZY BUT- There’s so much potential….. if you’re enteracting every waking day with someone you’re bound to remember their habits and speech patterns. He tries to relish in the silence but after a while he can’t help but imagine Heart joking with him or complaining about something stupid. Instead of the voice being inside his head….. it comes out of the voice modulator unintentionally. What if he has full on conversations with himself with Hearts voice after a while. What if it distorts his perception of reality and that even in exile he can’t escape him. What if it furthers his hatred of Heart, what if it drives him farther away from Soul because he can’t let himself be perceived as ‘flawed’. Chat what if he’s suffering in his safe space, his mind. GUYS DO YOU SEE THE VISION.

(Gonna write a one shot like this one day trust)

What if you tried to kill me and my grief manifested into an unhealthy coping mechanism that my logical mind was not programmed to handle and it tormented me until you returned home.

[beauty-and-passion]

CCCC Vol.1 - Cacophony: back into one (5/5)

Wow, we’ve reached the end of the Cacophony act!

Let’s recap the story until now:

Mind and Heart try to cooperate, then start drifting apart because of their natural differences

The Juno incident fucks everything up

Heart surrenders to apathy, he leaves Mind in full control of the vessel

Mind berates Heart whenever he can, trying to get a reaction out of him. He fails so much, in the end, he thinks Heart is nothing more than a virus that should be removed.

And since now things can become truly dangerous, Soul finally intervenes.

<- Previous post - First post

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The Soul Eclectic: the real ultimatum

* Soul’s nature

Heart is associated with “acoustic” to emphasize his connection with songs and Mind with “electric” to emphasis his nature as “cynical machine”. Soul, on the other hand, is associated with “eclectic”, to point out how broad and variegated his nature is.

He admits this firsthand, by saying “you can call me whatever”.

* Soul’s leading role

While Mind and Heart fight and bicker about who the leader is, Soul simply appears and:

scolds them both like kids (“Call me your host or call me insane/If that will help you stay in line”)

reminds them that no matter who the leader is, they still answer to him

reminds them that neither of them can control the Soul

calls them parasites living inside of him and scolds them again for nothing useful aside from their constant bickering

Mind or Heart might fight for leadership, but Soul is clearly a superior power - some sort of authoritarian/adult figure who controls the other two.

And yes, he’s not nice to them at all, but he said it since Dream: he’s tired of their bickering.

* Soul’s awareness

Soul is more aware than Heart and Mind about how right and wrong they are. Why each of them tries to insist that they’re 100% right and the other is 100% wrong, Soul can see that it’s more of a 50/50. He has a more detached, external view to their discussion - and a more objective one.

Also, he can see that they’re exhausting themselves: in order to win their stupid war at all costs, all they do is deteriorating their vessel.

And since Soul doesn’t want to destroy the vessel and resort to suicide, all he can do is give a real, final ultimatum. They have one last chance to cooperate. If they fail again, Soul will bring both of them down with him. And unlike Mind or Heart, who are equally powerful and thus cannot bring the other down, Soul proved he’s more powerful than them. So if Soul wants to destroy them both, he can definitely do it.

_______________________________

The Bidding: the reunification

There are four things in particular that got stuck with me here:

1) For the first and only time, Heart talks shit about Mind. He calls him “the piece of shit”, admits he stole his throne (aka his leader role) and even points out Mind never was the ruler - probably referring to a moment before the time loop (maybe the same Mind hinted in Be Born).

And Souls not only confirms that, but he points out it doesn’t really matter who the leader is, because neither Heart nor Mind can fully control him.

So the leader position is basically useless. Heart and Mind are equal. Sometimes, one can be more prominent than the other, but that’s it, they still won’t overcome Soul.

And if it sounds very realistic, it’s because it is.

2) All Soul needs is to confirm they will die today if they do not harmonize and bam, Heart and Mind find a way to harmonize. Talking about being persuasive and the true leader.

3) The harmonization happened over this line:

“Your silence (violence) deafens more than any sound”

Heart and Mind managed to find common ground only while stating their mutual distaste for each other. And yet, this is a step forward, because while stating “yes, I don’t like you”, they also point out the core reason why they do not like each other. The foundation of that mutual distaste.

For Heart, it’s Mind’s silence: that same silence from Night, after Heart asked Mind “What do you want?”. The silence that made his anxieties rise, that convinced him of Mind’s dangerous goals. The same silence that pushed Heart to act and led to the Juno incident.

For Mind, it’s Heart’s violence: the same violence we talked about in The Mind Electric, the violence that struck Mind the most because he was supposed to work with this guy and yet not only Heart tried to kill him, but even dug a hole for him.

And by pointing them out at the same time, they managed to switch perspective and see the problem from the other side’s point of view. Heart saw his own violence, Mind saw the effect of his own silence. It’s extremely clever and Chonny made it even more clever with the switching colors.

4) As soon as they harmonize, Soul immediately drops the suicidal thoughts and rejoices. It was a weak attempt, it wasn’t very harmonious either, but it happened and that’s what matters the most. No matter how flawed it was, they still managed to do it.

As I said in my first post, it’s very typical of people with suicidal tendencies to drop the idea of suicide and immediately latch to a possible hope, no matter how small it is. And since Soul is closer and more similar to Chonny than the other sides, it makes sense he shows this kind of behavior. Heck, he even begs the other two sides to try again to harmonize. He, who was sick and tired of their constant bickering, who was ready to resort to suicide, as soon as he found some hope, immediately got his strength and his will to try again.

And no, it’s not weird, because it’s the same thing that happened in Dream: right from his very first song, Soul showed how tired he is, but also how hopeful he is. And if there is even one small possibility of success, he wants to give it a try. He did it with the time loop, he’s doing it again now.

_______________________________

Light: blurring the lines

*Soul’s payoff: as soon as Soul decides they should blur the lines, Mind and Heart’s rhythms change: Heart’s becomes more robotic, Mind’s becomes softer. I don’t know you, but to me that looks like another confirmation that Soul is the most powerful of the three sides.

And his hard work is finally paying off: by switching perspectives, Heart and Mind can better understand each other, to the point they manage to unify and Chonny as a whole can finally sing.

*Whole!Chonny is incredibly human: he’s the perfect representation of an ex-suicidal on the road to recovery. He still sees his flaws and imperfections, he’s still a “sad sulking mess”. But the negative, dark, pessimistic feelings are taking a step back, because of the overwhelming optimism born from the previous spark of hope in The Bidding. Going over something as dreadful as the idea to die makes the will to live grow stronger - consequently, the love for life increases too, as well as all positive, optimistic feelings. Even if things are still far from perfect, the mere idea of being alive is enough to push Chonny forward and convince himself things can go well.

_______________________________

We’re Gonna Win: a positive perspective

*Connection to Sanders Sides: after so many songs in which they were always at each other’s throat, Heart and Mind finally comes to the realization all they need is each other.

This heavily reminds me of the song Family of Me, from Thomas’ playlist. The interpretation I gave at the time is the same of this song: even if you’re physically alone, you’re never truly alone, because there will always be these parts of you at your side. Friends and family can disappear, love can fade, but your own self will never betray, nor leave you alone.

*Building confidence: If you think it’s a lonely though, consider this from the point of view of an ex-suicidal as Chonny: knowing that, no matter what, you’re never truly alone reassures you a lot. You’re not left to deal with these dark thoughts by yourself, there is always someone who loves, cares and supports you. It calms you, it reassures you - and it makes you more confident. You won’t fear being alone anymore, because you have yourself.

*After a heartbreak: this realization helps a lot especially after an heartbreak. Heartbreaks tend to make people feel weak, wrong, incomplete. But once you realize you’re not alone because you have yourself and yourself is all you need, then the ex isn’t so essential anymore. You can survive without them. Chonny survived without them. And if he’s alive now, it’s thanks to his own strength, not a loved one. Hence, he can face everything now.

*A burning passion for art: as soon as Chonny realizes he can do anything, he immediately reconfirms his love for songwriting and states he wants to make his own songs, until the day he dies. What a perfect representation of what the love for art is.

_______________________________

Two Wuv: the religious theme

We can’t have psychological stories without a sprinkle of religion.

This album makes it very clear that Chonny was/is a dark, depressed, disheartened person. A person who thought and talked about his dark thoughts, suicide and how bad he was feeling.

And yet, when he did it, the people around him failed to understand, help or accept him: they told him to cheer up, to stop talking about this, to “play the happy song”.

Is it so hard to believe that some religious figure told him the same? That instead of offering him the solace he needed, condemned him for being who he is and for his thoughts? That instead of helping, they made it worse?

So, Chonny taking a stand is very, very brave. He doesn’t just admit his flaws to himself, but he does it to the people around them, his family and religion itself. He goes against those huge old institutions to reaffirm who he is, flawed and all.

And, honestly, this is closer to Jesus’ original message, than the religious teachings he probably got. It’s more Christian to love someone for who they are, as long as they’re good people at heart, than judging people according to labels and arbitrary rules.

_______________________________

Variations on a Cloud: synchronized harmonies

Chonny is a lot more confident now. The Bidding started an “optimistic wave” that led him to a bigger understanding of himself and a higher self-esteem. He’s even strong enough to face the people in his life and show himself for who he is - the imperfect, flawed, human person he is.

But still, no matter how flawed he can be, he’s not alone. He has his sides with him, a “tridental sovereignty” helping and supporting him.

So, he shows this by letting them sing and showing us how they all work together now. Sure, they may have slightly different lines, but there is harmony. They are moving together in the same direction.

And so, since they’re all on the same page, they make the same ask: to “keep it coming back”. But back to what?

In the original song, this line was about memories. And here I think the meaning is the same: they are asking Chonny to remember. To revisit what happened, in order to find a closure. Now they’re together, they’re harmonized: they are strong enough to do it.

So Chonny does it and goes back to the start.

_______________________________

The Whole World & You (Outro from Cacophony): a meta retrospective

We have several voices here, all explaining what happened during this arc and drawing their conclusions:

*Chonny (alongside Heart) reconfirms his goal was the same as the Q&A: he wanted to sing about love and duality, the “blues and greens”, his dark thoughts. He wanted to better understand himself. And, if you remember, this exploration of himself always went hand in hand with a sense of inadequacy, because he was just making covers, “singing songs someone already sung”, not writing new ones. Everything he said was “trite”.

But now, he’s finally at peace with this. He made covers and he loves to do them.

*Mind reveals it was all a test. He never forgot the original goal to become one, never. He simply played a part: Heart was Dr. Jekyll, so he just played Mr. Hide. And since Hide is the villain, Mind played the role of a villain.

Honestly? I believe him. Because, for the entire Cacophony, Mind kept trying to get a reaction out of Heart. He repeated he wasn’t a villain, trying to make him understand he’s not the bad guy. He kept blaming and scolding Heart, trying to get something out of him. And when the insults didn’t help, he moved to actual threats, hoping those would do the trick.

But also: Mind really really wanted that leadership position. And the way he kept pointing out how Heart “dug a hole for him” showed some real hurt. So maybe yes, it was all a plan. But this plan definitely had some personal components.

*Soul can finally relax. He endured Heart and Mind, he managed to make them harmonize. He��s on the other side of the time loop now, the worst is in the past. Things will be easier from now on.

In fact, this is the end of the “lore-packed” act. Now Chonny will “go back”, as his sides asked. He will talk about the past, himself and his work.

But before doing that, he offers his thanks to his Muse, the inspiration behind his work: Tally Hall, the original authors of these songs. After all, without them and their songs, this album wouldn’t exist either.

So just like a book starts with the credits, Chonny starts reminiscing his story with the credits as well.

-> Next post

(How about a coffee? ☕)

_______________________________

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[disruptivevoib]

hi! ive listened to some of chonny jash's songs but did not realize that there was really a story? Or i vaguely knew but didn't have the time/energy to get into it and with the release of the bidding animation ive realized theres like a bajillion awesome animations and art and i want to get into cccc but have no clue how. also why does soul have a trident.

OH man!

The story of CCCC has an overall seeming narrative, but much of it's smaller points are interpretive due to Jash himself leaving it up to fans of the album. But! Overall it kind of goes like:

-Jash or, what most people call Whole, splits as due to mental dissonance and waning mental health. (Time Machine Reprise).

- Whole fades into Soul (End of TMR into Dream) and from there its Mucka Blucka as a sort of introductory song. The recap for a story you have or haven't heard yet.

- (The entire album is a time loop! Which is a big metaphor for the cycles of mental health and illness people go through.)

- From there its the section called "Cacophony" which starts off with Soul, but eventually it turns to Heart and Mind + their fighting and inability to see or listen to one another or their points of view. Of course, as Logic and Emotion, they both have valid ideas or opinions, but believe themselves so contradictory that the other must be evil or out to get them.

- Heart attempts to shoot Mind, as referred to in Ruler of Everything. Literal or Metaphorical as you take this, it is seemingly symbolic for an attempt at one's own life if not self sabotage. If not then both.

- The rest up until Soul Eclectic is sort of just the Mind and Heart fighting and their own personal views each on the situation.

- Soul in The Soul Eclectic reaches his breaking point. Threatening to kill them all (A more direct attempt at suicide)

- Mind and Heart in the subsequent songs decide to get their shit together.

- (Two Wuv) Soul realizes that not only can they be happier now but that trying to force themselves to conform to society's ideas of mental health or belief or love is just plainly unbeneficial. Sort of a song about unapologetically being yourself.

- Welcome To Tally Hall is a tribute to Tally Hall themselves more than anything.

- This transfers into Concord soon after! Concord is Whole or Jash by himself, though many of the songs seem to carry themes from Cacophony in them. Self sabotage, disagreement, importance placed on the wrong thing, the idea that no one person is better off than another. It concludes with Taken for a Ride. Which is also sort of CJ's epic "im burnt out as hell" song towards the end. But exaggerated to my knowledge for lyrical shenanigans.

That is CCCC as neutrally told as best as possible. I highly recommend forming your own ideas on it, but I'd be happy to also discuss more in depth my opinion on each song should you or anyone else express interest!

Getting into the Trident: The fandom took the metaphor of "Tridential Sovreignty" and "This trident he formed (found? Lyrics.) is both weapon and motive" and said "Soul's got a trident" to which Jash responded with "Absolutely yes he does now" Same with the crown most people put Mind in, and that is referenced in the "Trident, Crown and Blindfold" line.

Soul really did get noose imagery, a trident and a mask. All Heart n Mind got were a blindfold and crown. Lmao

Though Heart is also commonly drawn with wings. Which is semi-canonical according to album covers. I choose to ignore them because I don't particularly have an attachment to the idea!

Getting into the fandom itself, I can recommend looking around for the Chonny Jash Fan Server (CJFS) Discord link. But it can be extremely intimidating and even I just stick to discussion and one other thread channel. (Sides from my au channels which pop up every once a month or so).

Important note is that only Tally Hall covers have to do with HMS. Any of Jash's other music (of which I highly recommend, always) is unrelated. There is also a fan QnA somewhere that was done like a year ago now which has some neat answers in it.

I, again, am happy to go into my interpretations of HMS and the music as a whole but skdmsm saved you the reading hopefully should that be undesired!

[calamarispiderart]

your interpretation of heart's blindness is so cool and true. giving heart that agency benefits both his character and the overall story so much. something about either mind or soul somehow having the authority to afflict heart like that just rubs me the wrong way tbh. like a big part of the story is they're all one and the same, can't survive without eachother. there's like 3 lines in the soul eclectic about soul's tridential authority being pretty surface level, the only way for him to hurt heart and mind is to hurt himself, so why should it be different when it comes to blinding heart

thank you, yes!! i have a lot of gripes with the way hearts blindness (and heart himself honestly.....) is framed and depicted in some spheres of the community.... im sure its unintentional but i feel a lot of people forget heart has just as much agency, power and control as the other two. him being blind doesnt change that whatsoever and the consistent framing of his blindness as a punishment or some kind of... karmic consequence is just.... yeah. rubs me the wrong way too

...i feel theres definitely some ableism coming into play whenever people frame heart as like... the weak beaten down one thats always abused by the other two, or maybe he just sucks at everything because 'ohh he cant see so he bumps into stuff and is always confused!!!' (which itself holds a fundamental misunderstanding of how blindness can work and manifest), or just framed as otherwise lesser than the other two in a variety of ways ....im sure you can imagine what im talking about. its very much a problem which i hope people realise they need to correct.

ableism aside, while i am biased due to this being my own subjective interpretation of things i do agree and feel heart having the choice and control over his blindness is both just a lot more fitting for his character/themes overall and just....far more interesting for the dynamics of the story? maybe it doesnt hit all the 'dramatic angst notes' in the same way as other interpretations but... yeah idk im just rambling at this point B:•P

im glad u like it!! thank u for sharing ur thoughts B:•]

[birdmitosis]

Fanmix-slash-playlist for Slay the Princess! Song list under the cut. There’s 96 songs on this fanmix/playlist, and it’s about 6 and a half hours long.

Some of the songs were not available on Spotify, and they will be linked to on YouTube below. (Some artists have 2 songs on the playlist; aeseaes, The Crane Wives, Hozier, and Stars each have 3 because they were just too perfect. Also, some songs are definitely on here because of other people's fanvids or even just suggestions, and I've made note of and credited all of those!) (All fanmixes/playlists are a perpetual WIP.)

aeseaes - All Things Devour

aeseaes - Semantics

aeseaes - Tongues

AG - Terrible Thing

t h e . a i m s - Violence & Blood

The Airborne Toxic Event - Poor Isaac

Alanis Morissette - Everything (friend suggestion)

Amanda Palmer & The Grand Theft Orchestra - Trout Heart Replica

Amber Run - I Found

The Amazing Devil - The Horror and the Wild

The Amazing Devil - That Unwanted Animal

Andrew Bird - Imitosis

Andrew Bird - Sisyphus

August Greenwood - How To Let Go

AURORA - Your Blood

Baby Storme - This City is a Graveyard

Band of Horses - No One's Gonna Love You

Beth Crowley - Monster

Blindside - Withering

Bring Me the Horizon - Deathbeds

Camera Obscura - Fifth in Line to the Throne

Caravan Palace - Avalanches

Charming Disaster - Ouroboros

Chonny Jash - The Soul Eclectic (inspiration)

City and Colour - Little Hell

Coldplay - The Hardest Part

Coldplay - Square One

Collective Soul - The World I Know

Cosmo Sheldrake - By Being With You

The Crane Wives - Curses

The Crane Wives - Hollow Moon (inspiration)

The Crane Wives - Tongues & Teeth

Crystal Castles - Suffocation (inspiration)

David Bowie - Changes

The Echoing Green - Starling

Electric President - Some Crap About the Future

Elizabeth & the Catapult - Do Not Hang Your Head

Elizabeth & the Catapult - My Goodbye

Ellie Goulding - Salt Skin

Eurielle - Hate Me

The Feeling - Mr Grin

fin - Ship in a Bottle

Florence + The Machine - Kiss With a Fist

Florence + The Machine - What the Water Gave Me

Forgive Durden - A Dead Person Breathed on Me!

Foxtails Brigade - Long Route

Foxtails Brigade - Nun but the Lost

Ghost and Pals - DEATHBODY

Ghost and Pals - In Iolite

Gregory and the Hawk - Boats & Birds

Hannah Fury - Angels & Absinthe

Howie Day - Collide

Hozier - Francesca

Hozier - In the Woods Somewhere

Hozier - Who We Are

IAMX - Bernadette

I Monster - Who Is She?

Jack Conte - Kitchen Fork (inspiration)

Jack Stauber's Micropop - Choice (inspiration)

The Jezabels - Hurt Me

Jhariah - Flight of the Crows

Journey to Bethlehem OST - We Become We

Kate Nash - Paris

Kiltro - Softy

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard - Magenta Mountain

lasah - taixu (inspiration)

Lisa Hannigan - Oh Undone

Little Dragon - Twice

The Lord Dog Bird - The Shedding Path

Ludo - The Horror of Our Love

Madilyn Mei - Knotted Constellations

Meredith Brooks - Bitch

MGMT - Little Dark Age

Michelle Branch - Everywhere

Mili (feat. KIHOW) - In Hell We Live, Lament

Mirah - Don't Die in Me

Mirah - You've Gone Away Enough

Moulettes - Bird of Paradise, Pt. II

The Mountain Goats - No Children (inspiration)

The Mountain Goats - Sudden Oak Death

Mr.Kitty - After Dark

múm - Prophecies & Reversed Memories

The Nor'easters - 715 — CRΣΣKS (inspiration)

Olivier Bibeau - Better Run, Better Hide

Passion Pit - Seaweed Song

PEGGY - Villains Aren't Born (They're Made)

Perfectly Human - Bad As

Perfectly Human - Fly Again

Racoon - Took a Hit

Rainbow Kitten Surprise - Devil Like Me

Reinaeiry - When the Sun Loves the Moon

Ricky Montgomery - This December

RIProducer - Fruiting Bodies

RIProducer - What Gave It Away?

Sarah Blasko - Bird on a Wire

Satin Puppets - Bad Moon Rising

Seeming - Someday Lily

Sharon Van Etten - It's Not Like

Shayfer James - Boots Worn Through (inspiration)

Sheena Ringo - la salle de bain (inspiration)

Sleeping At Last - Mind

Sleeping At Last - Taste

SNAKE POOL - FIGURE IN THE BACKGROUND (inspiration)

Snow Patrol - Open Your Eyes

Solas Composer - He Who Devoured the Dark II

Southwest Statistic - Fairy Tale (friend suggestion)

Stars - He Dreams He's Awake

Stars - The Night Starts Here

Stars - No One Is Lost

Subsignal - The Bells of Lyonesse (inspiration)

Sunset Rubdown - For the Pier (and Dead Shimmering)

Talking Heads - And She Was

Trespassers William - I Know

TV on the Radio - Stork & Owl

Will Wood - Vampire Reference in a Minor Key

Woodkid - Ghost Lights

[angelic-omega]

An analysis of myself and the characters I relate to that nobody asked for but I totally recommend doing!!

Just a warning it’s kinda sad but I needed to know how I could relate to all these seemingly very different characters and I am a SCIENTIST!!

A: Fussy, Posh, Foodies who have claim to have high standards. Eclectic with very niche interests such as literature, classic music, ancient history, wine, roleplay, slight of hand, tartan, dim lighting, statues, and being old men who can’t work modern technology. Both prefer to do things the old fashioned way and have a distaste for anyone unnecessarily rude. Both are too polite and have a reputation of being polite so they won’t speak their mind in person but will find a way to get that person on the right path later.

B: Religiously traumatized people pleasers who always try to do the right thing and always get hurt for it. Kind, caring, and gentle souls who are forced to change to better humanity. Actually an eldritch creature trying to pass as human and despite being as courteous as possible are still slightly unnerving at times. Think they are being smooth but aren’t and both are clearly in love with their bad boy, car obsessed, classic rock and roll best friends. Both are actually really intelligent in their own ways but are perceived as stupid and infantilized. Chronic insomniacs who either forget to sleep or simply don’t want to sleep. Give the best cuddles and you can’t change my mind.

C: Forced to be strong and fight when all they ever wanted was peace and to be left alone. Queens of making poor decisions when it comes to relationships. Chosen as leaders because of their strength they didn’t chose to have. Just want to live a gentle, carefree life but now have ptsd and can’t. Protective of their siblings and have a strong sense of justice.

D: soldiers who did some bad things and now blame themselves for all the pain they caused. Nightmares of them hurting people that then make them think they are a bad person and don’t deserve kindness. Lost a part of themselves trying to survive and will never get it back.

E: Experienced with knives and have a staring problem. Both shut off in a physical fight and get eerily calm as a trauma response. Both could easily snap and kill someone if pushed but mostly keep to themselves so long as no one goes out their way to piss them off. Unintentionally hurt those they love most because they can’t express an emotion in a healthy way to save their life

F: 100% chance they secretly love wearing dresses because they are pretty and comfortable. shy and soft spoken in the streets but absolutely freaks in the sheets~ bisexual but everyone just calls them fruity little gay men including themselves

G: Will say they are going to do as you’ve asked them but if they don’t agree with it are going to not do what you asked them to do. Stubborn divas who you cannot make betray their hearts. Always on some sort of secret mission and always having something up their sleeve they are keeping from everyone just to reveal it dramatically at the right time.

H: Brainwashed and gaslit so hard they don’t even know what they want out of life anymore

I: Are jokingly mean as a flirting tactic

J: All definitely still have a working land line and a desk top computer. Take their taxes seriously.

K: All have been through past trauma and abuse which caused them to act and behave in ways that felt out of character. Could never be true to themselves and cannot catch a break. Could have really had their shit together if it wasn’t for circumstance but nonetheless are trying to make things right because deep DEEP down they are good people…they just end up making bad decisions because they don’t know how to emote. Authority issues out the ass but somehow all bottoms…(idk if they are or not but it’s funny to say) definitely all have PTSD and definitely feel like a failure because they can’t heal from their trauma.

[galaxyedging]

Tim Rockford x f!reader

Warnings: None really.

WC:1.4k

A little twist on a classic mystery.

La Compère

It was a silly thought. One that left your mind as quickly as it entered. It's almost romantic. The two of you catching little glimpses of the other. Both trying to use the like bits gleaned about each other to build a bigger picture.

He was divorced; recently, there was still a tan line where his wedding band used to be. He had kids, both in high school. You'd heard him talking to them, trying to arrange meeting up with them. Their schedules didn't seem to line up. They were busy with friends, hobbies, and school work. He was busy with his work. With you.

The work that was giving him a headache. His large hand massaged his temple. Not for the first time, you wondered if his hands would be rough or smooth. There was a roughness to him, a directness that some people may mistake for lack of tact. The man had tact, he also had things to do. He wasn't there to play games. He was there to work. He'd been in every room, searched everywhere, turned over every piece of the puzzle in his head over and over again. He touched the items in front of him with such a gentleness as if he could coax some answers out of them with the softness of his touch. 

Other's came by now and then as he worked. They would give their opinion. He was dismissive of most of them. After all, he knew you best. He was the only one that read the unpublished manuscript on your desk. The one where you had so clearly poured your heart out onto each page. The fiction woven so tightly with the fact of you. 

He was the one that stared at your collage of photographs of your wall. The ones that showed the light in your eyes and the love in your life. He'd picked through the mementos in your draws. Concert ticket stubs, rock and shells still covered with sand, wrist bands from festivals. 

It only took him five minutes in your inner sanctum for him to decide he liked you. He'd asked them not to disturb a thing. He was drawn to you in your photos with your friend. Your beauty and vibrance made you stand out to him even if he didn't already know to look for you. The shelves filled with books, CDs and DVDs, gave him an insight into your eclectic tastes. The first time he'd skimmed the spines of your books with his finger, you'd stood and watched. He was handsome, with his brow furrowed and lips parted in concentration. The wrinkles at the corner of his eyes showed his age and a life well lived. A life full of laughter. Not one second of it showed on his face at the moment. His lips were set in a hard line as he sat at your desk, looking through his notes. His deep brown eyes scanned the words over and over as if the answers were hidden in the space between them. It was hard to restrain yourself from laying a comforting hand on his shoulder. The way they were hunched over was a far cry from how broad they really were. They were one of the first things that caught your attention when he'd first entered your home. The other being his eyes. The warmth in such darkness. A whole variety of shades shone as they moved in the light. As they searched each sentence for a clue. They only stopped to shut tightly in frustration. This time you didn't hold back from offering a comforting touch. A shiver ran down his spine. It was so deep that he reached for the gun at his shoulder instinctively. The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end. Sat with his back to a windowless wall, all logic told him he didn't need to turn around. Something in his chest, instinct, unease. If he were a more poetic man he'd say his soul, told him to. There was no surprise that the only things behind him were the wall and the better part of the night. 

The clock on the wall showed three am. His mother would have called it the witching hour. The wariness settled in his bones, his eyes burned as he tried to blink away the pull of sleep. Failing for just a moment he let them close. When he opened them he felt more awake than he had in a long time. The feeling was heightened by the soft sound of your footsteps as you entered the room. He'd found you, or rather you'd found him. Here, in front of him, you looked even more beautiful than your pictures. It threw him for a moment before he called your name and explained who he was.

"I know who you are. Thank you for looking for me." The smile on your face added to the sudden sense of peace he felt.

"It's my job." Still, you felt like more than a job to him.

"It's not your job to stay up all night. When was the last time you ate?" The concern on your face was touching. No one had looked at him like that in such a long time.

"Noon, maybe?" He couldn't recall. He wasn't hungry now. "No, later. Your aunt brought me almond cookies."

"You didn't go home for dinner. You stayed." The two of you stepped closer as you talked.

"There's not much for me to go home to." He tried to coat the bitterness in the sweetness of laughter. "I wanted to find you."

"Because it's your job." Your inflection was somewhere between a statement and a question.

"Because I wanted to meet you. To meet the wit behind the words in your book. The woman that so many people thought so highly of they've spent weeks searching for you." He was directly in front of you now. So close that he could see the depth of colour in your eyes that he thought he knew so well.

"I wanted to meet you too. I've been watching you. Watching you comfort those people. Watching you see me, really see me, in a way no-one has." Why did your words make his heart ache? Why was he just standing here? He should inform his bosses that you are alive. That you are safe with him.

"I enjoyed getting to know you. You were more than just a job. Sorry, I shouldn't have said that." Why did he say that? Why was he letting himself stand impossibly close to you?

"It's okay. I'm flattered. I just wish it didn't end the way it did." He watched the pain flicker across your face.

"What do you mean?" This ended well. He found you. You were safe and well. Safe with him.

"You're a good man, Tim. You wouldn't even refuse Grandma's bitter cookies." Something tugged at the back of his mind. A half formed notion that wasn't ready to be heard. Still, it shifted something in him. When you stepped closer, he didn't hesitate to draw you into his arms. The two of you swayed gently, to the melody of an unheard song. His embrace was warm and inviting. "I'm glad you found me."

"Me too. I just wish it had been earlier." The half formed thought fought to take shape but his mind wouldn't let it. He couldn't accept the truth even though all the clues finally fit into place. You'd said Grandma's cookies. He knew the Aunt's alibi was a lie even though it seemed solid. No, there was no place for regret. He'd solved the case. He'd found you. You were safe. So was he. There was no pain for either of you anymore. 

"Better late than never." His lips brushed your cheek until he found yours, parted and waiting for him. The kiss was soft and sweet. 

"What do we do now?" Years of detective work hadn't prepared him to solve one of life's greatest mysteries. 

"I don't know." You had no plan beyond watching him. It hadn't occurred to you. The weeks you had spent watching him, felt like mere minutes to you. "Do you think they'll find me without you?"

Without him. The thought that he desperately tried to ignore, finally broke through. A moment of sadness flashed through the peace he felt. Not sadness for him, sadness for those he left behind.

"They'll have more reason to look when they find me. Everything pointed to your Grandmother. They didn't think of her having an accomplice."

Tags @kirsteng42 @prolix-yuy @thegreenkid2 @hquinzelle @fangirl-316 @gracie7209 @jedifarmerr @doommommy @scorpio-marionette @sturkillerbase @harriedandharassed @aynsleywalker @mswarriorbabe80 @quica-quica-quica @rise-my-angel @adancedivasmom @graciexmarvel @kinda-nobody @movievillainess721 @munsonownsmyass

[euclydya]

questions: 1) favorite emoji(s)? 2) if you could take one clothing item from DE and add it to your wardrobe, which would you take? 3) what's the first thing you'd gravitate towards on a playground? (swings, slide, sandbox, etc) BONUS QUESTION BC I JUST SAW IT what does a syrup and cheese sandwich taste like???

statements: 1) been loving the mind electric theme, excited to see what line you choose for a soul eclectic blog title <3 2) emerald for the color asks btw! twirls you happily! :] 3) woe, ice cream be upon you :3 <3

That depends on the sysmate! I really like the heart emojis, Concept likes 🌁, Wood likes 👁️, etc etc we don't really have a collective favourite i think...? wait i forgot. 🪩 yeah that's our fave SJSJAJSJDKXXK

SWINGS FOR SURE!!! we r a Swings girlie. we'd spend all our time at the local park on the swingset anytime we went there as a teen tbh. v fun way to space out n listen to music!!

I'd say the bowtie that gives a + to Drama tbhhh. idk if we'd WEAR it but we always liked bowties!

it tastes very sweet!! depends on the cheese you use tho do NOT use the kraft/american cheese holy shit. we use like. Actual Sliced Cheese lmao it tastes so much better. The sweetness of the syrup kinda overpowers the saltiness (??) of the cheese and it is very Good. It also makes the bread tastier too!

-

EEEE THANK YOU!! we have some lines in mind already :3c I'm v excited tbh!!

YAY YIPPEE!! IM GLAD WE'RE FRIENDS TOO <3

Thank you omg!!!

[stocky2016]

" EVERY WORD I WRITE CALLS YOUR NAME "

In every verse I pen, your name takes flight,

Whispered softly, carried on love's sweet breeze,

Within the lines that dance upon my page,

Your essence weaves through syllables with ease.

Each word, a tender whisper, longs to touch,

To graze your heart and gently sway your soul,

A symphony of letters, neatly placed,

Creating lyrics only you can know.

With every stroke of pen, I feel your touch,

Each letter etched upon my poet's heart,

Like magic ink that binds our souls as one,

The very essence of our love, true art.

And as I write, it's you who grants me wings,

To soar beyond the confines of my mind,

With every word, our story takes its flight,

In lyrics pure, our love forever signed.

So let each letter resonate its truth,

And every verse be but a love's refrain,

For in each word, my sweetest love, I find,

Your name, forever echoed in each strain.

My name on your Tunisian breeze, so sweet and airy;

it softly dances as far as I can see;

Further than the land and miles across the sea;

everywhere I go, your butterflies follow me.

My intimate lines of love, so free and poetic;

my heart takes off and soars close to the sky;

Weaving through the air like eagles flying high;

a perfect fanfare of love, displayed and eclectic.

Your name in verse, a soft awakening;

an ode of love, that my heart is bringing;

Forever burns, love's eternal flame;

my dreams of days of us still remain.

We whisper softly, our secrets we must breathe in;

our destinies united in accident, some might say sin;

Defeated all the odds, our hearts should win;

our love will 'til the very end, be carried within.

Call my name again, it carries me in flight;

I feel you there, so close, even when out of sight;

Our silent promises, they fade but not our might;

the love we share will be here forever not just tonight.

Weaving through our poetic lines, is a story untold.

Tracing along the curves, of life's sojourns bold

Never finished, just like our most wonderful lives

Weaving through these lines, of joy and strife.

A collaboration between two special friends...

© Myriam Ghezaïl Ben Brahim ❤️🥀 and

© Geoff Stockton ❤️🥀

[reallyintoscience]

tagged by @issylra, @hardly-an-escape and @mallory-x in the first line game that's going around!

Share the first lines of ten of your most recent fanfics and tag ten people. If you have written less than ten, don’t be shy and share anyway.

Well, here's some Sandman and then my extremely eclectic exchange-based writing...

If Only Grant a Name (Sandman, Dreamling, WIP)

The problem starts because Dream arrives early for his appointment with Hob Gadling.

Sky is a Marvellous Garden Tonight (Sandman, Dreamling)

Meeting with Hob Gadling is at once restful and stimulating. Hob is always pleased to see him. Dream has tried to test this, because he finds it difficult to believe. And yet, no matter how often Dream comes to him, and no matter what he is occupied with at the time, Dream receives that same smile, that same welcome.

Rest at Your Hearth (Sandman, Dreamling)

Dream finds he cannot settle to his work, after everything. He has much to do and no shortage of time to do it in, and yet he. Cannot. Does not want the walls of his home around him, cannot hold his concentration long enough for the more intricate tasks required for the rebuilding of his realm. He feels stretched and thin and empty. Certainly, he has not the frame of mind necessary to create new dreams or nightmares. Creation demands of him his entire heart, a trust in himself and his own nature that has never before been in doubt. Now, he questions himself, he hesitates, he paces, he scratches at the dry wells of himself and he cannot be long in a single place. He has had enough of being still. So much of his role is in stillness. He cannot. Settle to it.

East Side Drowning (Cass Neary Series - Elizabeth Hand, gen)

The Lower East Side in the late 70s was its own thing. 

The waterfront was something else again. I found my way there as if it was another inevitability, on the edge of the Hudson and in the shadow of the old navy. It was a haunted place as only the maritime professions produce; the kind of hauntings that come with transience, identity forged in the running from the past. The twin taunts of camaraderie and isolation, where you can be known by the face and never by the soul. So it was a fitting place for New York's underground to be, the best possible home for the desperate spit-slick glimmer of the cruising scene in those days. 

The Bodyguard's Legacy (Hitman's Bodyguard movies, gen)

Michael lay on the yacht cabin roof, catching some sun and tunes. Two weeks of determined and unavoidable practice made it easy to ignore Sonia’s screaming and Kincaid’s yelling, but—due to an unfortunate incident with a jackhammer in his misspent younger years—the steady thumping vibrations were another matter. He gritted his teeth and bumped up the volume on Tina Turner. Still, when he was suddenly drenched in the spray of a jet ski arcing to a halt next to the yacht, the distraction was something of a relief.

Okay, Then (The Wicked + The Divine, Baph/Dio, pre-Cass/Laura)

If there was one thing you could say about prison, it was that it gave us a lot of time to relearn our miracles. Carefully, of course. The system isn't set up for people like us, and they're jumpy. No one really knows what we can still do. Especially us. 

Re-in-vent the Revent (The Culture series - Ian M. Banks, Zakalwe/GOU Falling Outside The Normal Moral Constraints)

"Listen, pal, I still don't think that strictly speaking this is a great idea, but your skin and all," the ship said. 

"It's a terrible idea," Zakalwe agreed, trying to get comfortable. The explosive wrap was restrictive, that was for sure. "Which is why we're doing it. You don't win wars by not being terrible."

marvellous time (folklore - Taylor Swift, Holiday House/F)

Jerry closed the door on the last of her old art school friends, waving them off from the window as they piled into Selina's old Cadillac and drove away. She'd pretended all weekend not to notice the concerned looks they'd exchanged between them, the way Cassie had offered to stay another week, just to 'keep her company', the whites of her eyes showing when she said it. Brave and lovely. The way they stayed clumped together at night.

Meeting of Minds (Transformers G1 vs Star Trek TOS, gen)

"Captain, I'm reading a debris field, one parsec to starboard. Sensors indicate a large metallic mass of unknown composition."

"Asteroid?"

"Unlikely, Captain. The largest object's angular shape is uncommon in asteroids. Further, there is an anomalous energy signature."

Jim sat forward in the command chair. "Put it on screen, direct all sensors toward the object."

"Our sensors are operating at the furthest range possible and visual detail is lacking, Captain. There is, however, a 92.3% probability that we are looking at a starship of a type unknown to Federation databases."

I'm Sorry If (The Magnus Archives, Jon/Michael)

The statement Jon wants is missing. When he first took it from the subject he thought it was a lot of paranoid nonsense, but now he thinks it could have been one of the Stranger's and he wants to read over it again. The misfiling is frustrating. The tickling between the shoulder blades is unsettling. 

It's watching him again. Jon is starting to be able to tell, his power growing in what might be a natural progression or might just be sheer mortal panic. Or. Scratch the 'mortal' part, Jon might be a lot of things but people who get to call themselves mortal probably don't spontaneously heal from their monstrous injuries. Their injuries from monsters. Something like that. 

Apologies for re-tagging if you're already done it, and no pressure either way but: @lu-inlondon, @beholdingthegaytimes, @gabessquishytum, @blueberrymffn, @dancinbutterfly, @lostelfwriting, @seiya-starsniper, @ginjones, @ghostboyjules, @sans--seraph

[apparelguide]

Title: Timeless Threads and Sips: Celebrating Pop Culture with Movie Quote Merchandise

In the vast universe of pop culture merchandise, few items strike as delightful a chord as those emblazoned with iconic movie quotes. From the casual elegance of T-shirts and the cozy comfort of sweatshirts to the daily ritual embrace of coffee mugs, movie quote merchandise offers fans a way to wear their hearts on their sleeves and sip their morning brew with a dash of cinematic flair. This exploration dives into the appeal and variety of movie quote T-shirts, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs, illustrating why these items have become staples in the wardrobes and kitchens of film enthusiasts everywhere.

The Art of the Quote: Movie Quote T-shirts and Sweatshirts

Movie Quote T-shirts: T-shirts featuring famous movie quotes are more than just casual wear; they are a form of personal expression and cultural connection. These garments serve as conversation starters, enabling wearers to display their movie preferences and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether it's the chilling simplicity of "I'll be back" from Terminator or the whimsical "You're killing me, Smalls!" from The Sandlot, each shirt tells a story and showcases a slice of cinematic history. The design of these T-shirts often combines creative fonts with artistic elements that reflect the film’s style or era, making them attractive to both movie buffs and fashion enthusiasts.

Movie Quote Sweatshirts: As with T-shirts, sweatshirts that feature movie quotes offer both style and comfort but add an extra layer of coziness. Ideal for cooler weather, these sweatshirts can be seen at movie nights, casual hangouts, and even at fan conventions. They echo the same sentiments as their T-shirt counterparts but cater to a need for warmth, making them both practical and sentimental. Popular choices often include lines from cult classics and blockbuster hits, each piece serving as a warm hug filled with movie magic.

Brewing Nostalgia: Movie Quote Coffee Mugs

Movie Quote Coffee Mugs: There’s something inherently comforting about holding a warm mug adorned with a favorite movie quote. These mugs do more than just hold beverages; they stir memories and serve up smiles with every sip. Whether it's a motivational quote from a beloved hero or a snarky remark from a cherished villain, each mug offers a daily reminder of the films that have left an imprint on one's life. The design of these mugs often pays homage to the movie’s visual themes or iconic scenes, making them not only functional but also collectible items.

Coffee Mug Movie Quotes: Flipping the script, some coffee mugs feature compilations of quotes from various movies, celebrating the breadth of cinematic genius. These mugs are particularly popular as gifts, as they cater to cinephiles who appreciate a wide range of film genres. The eclectic mix of quotes can turn a morning coffee routine into an entertaining guess-the-movie game, adding an element of fun to the start of the day.

Graphic Delights: Embracing the Visuals

Movie Graphic T-shirts: Moving beyond text, movie graphic T-shirts incorporate iconic imagery from films, often blended with quotes that capture the essence of the scene. These shirts might depict a striking still from a movie, like the sunset dance of La La Land, paired with a line that speaks to the soul of the film. This blend of visual and textual elements appeals to fans who appreciate the artistry behind movie making and want to showcase their favorites in a visually engaging way.

Graphic T-shirts Movies: The reverse combination—focusing first on the graphic and supplementing with movie quotes—also makes for compelling merchandise. These shirts often use a standout image as the central focus, with the quote playing a supporting role, subtly integrated into the design. This style suits fans who prefer visuals over text but still want to acknowledge their favorite lines in a less overt manner.

Graphic Movie Sweatshirts and Mugs: Extending the concept to sweatshirts and coffee mugs, the integration of graphics and quotes creates multifaceted items that are both visually appealing and emotionally resonant. Whether it’s the eerie silhouette of the Bates Motel from Psycho accompanied by Norman Bates’ chilling words or a colorful depiction of Dorothy’s slippers from The Wizard of Oz alongside “There’s no place like home,” these items blend comfort with nostalgia, making them perfect for gifting or personal use.

Conclusion

Movie quote merchandise, whether displayed on clothing or coffee mugs, offers fans a unique way to celebrate their favorite films. These items serve as personal badges of taste and preference, offering not just a style statement but a way to connect with the larger narrative of film history. As movies continue to influence and inspire, the popularity of these products reflects the enduring power of cinema and its ability to resonate through simple, everyday objects. Whether for personal use or as thoughtful gifts, movie quote merchandise remains a heartfelt nod to the storytellers who enrich our lives with their cinematic creations.

[jack35434]

Making Sense: Art and Meaning

In the heart of a bustling city, amidst the constant hum of life's daily routines, there existed a small, unassuming art gallery known simply as "Making Sense." Tucked away on a narrow street lined with cafes and boutiques, it was easy to overlook amidst the towering skyscrapers and flashy advertisements. Yet, for those who ventured inside, "Making Sense" offered more than just a collection of artworks; it provided a journey into the intricate tapestry of human emotions, ideas, and interpretations.

Chapter 1: The Genesis

The gallery was the brainchild of Emily Rivers, a former art history professor who had spent years studying the evolution of art and its profound impact on society. Disenchanted with the academic rigidity of traditional institutions, Emily longed to create a space where art could be experienced beyond scholarly analysis—a place where meaning could be discovered through personal connection rather than scholarly discourse.

With a modest inheritance from her late grandmother and the support of a few like-minded artists and friends, Emily leased a rundown storefront and transformed it into "Making Sense." The name itself was a playful nod to the elusive nature of art and its ability to evoke different interpretations and emotions from each viewer.

Chapter 2: The Vision

From the moment one stepped through the gallery's weathered wooden doors, it was clear that "Making Sense" was unlike any other art space in the city. The interior was a harmonious blend of minimalist design and eclectic decor, with soft lighting that accentuated the vibrant colors and textures of the artworks on display. Paintings, sculptures, installations—all carefully curated to provoke thought and stir the soul.

Emily's vision was simple yet profound: to create a sanctuary where art could transcend its material form and resonate on a deeper, more personal level with each visitor. Unlike traditional galleries that often dictated the meaning and significance of artworks through didactic panels and curatorial statements, "Making Sense" encouraged viewers to engage with art on their own terms—to trust their instincts, emotions, and intellect in deciphering its meaning.

Chapter 3: The Artists

Central to Emily's philosophy was her unwavering support for emerging and underrepresented artists whose works challenged conventions and pushed boundaries. "Making Sense" became a platform for these visionaries to experiment, express, and provoke. From avant-garde installations that blurred the lines between reality and imagination to abstract paintings that defied traditional notions of beauty, the gallery's exhibitions were a testament to the diversity and dynamism of contemporary art.

Each artist showcased at "Making Sense" brought a unique voice and perspective to the dialogue on art and meaning. Some sought to confront societal issues through their work, sparking conversations on topics ranging from environmental degradation to social justice. Others explored the intricacies of human emotions and relationships, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs.

Chapter 4: The Community

As word spread of this unconventional art haven, "Making Sense" quickly became a gathering place for artists, collectors, students, and curious passersby alike. Discussions and debates flourished within its walls, fueled by the shared passion for creativity and the quest for meaning. Lectures, workshops, and artist talks further enriched the gallery's vibrant community, fostering connections and collaborations that transcended artistic boundaries.

Beyond its physical space, "Making Sense" extended its influence into the digital realm, leveraging social media and online platforms to reach a global audience. Virtual exhibitions, interactive features, and behind-the-scenes glimpses offered a glimpse into the creative process and expanded the gallery's reach far beyond its humble beginnings.

Chapter 5: The Legacy

Today, "Making Sense" stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring quest for meaning in an increasingly complex world. Emily Rivers, now revered as a pioneer in the realm of contemporary art, continues to guide the gallery with unwavering dedication and a commitment to fostering creativity, connection, and understanding.

The legacy of "Making Sense" lies not only in its remarkable exhibitions and innovative programs but also in the countless lives it has touched and inspired. From aspiring artists finding their voice to seasoned collectors discovering new perspectives, the gallery remains a beacon of artistic freedom and exploration.

As the sun sets over the city skyline, casting long shadows across the streets below, "Making Sense" continues to illuminate the minds and hearts of all who seek to make sense of the world through the lens of art. Its story is a reminder that amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life, there exists a place where beauty, truth, and meaning converge—a place called "Making Sense."

Thus concludes the story of "Making Sense," a testament to the enduring power of art to provoke, inspire, and transcend.

[beauty-and-passion]

oh it’s no worries man, and i’m so very excited to see the full post when it does come out, you have an incredible way with words

i will say that you really shouldn’t take everything said in the analysis/explanation provided by others to be end all be all because a lot of the album is very up in the air and open to personal interpretation. even a lot of the core ideas we’ve managed to establish are debatable in the long run, and there’s always a different, entirely defendable idea. but i’m sure you knew that already.

take as much time as you need with the post and absorbing the album, though i will hazard to ask what your favourite song would be so far? can’t help the curiosity lol :]

-cj anon

Hello again, cj anon! :D

Oh don't worry, I checked several theories and, in the end, I don't have a specific one. However, some theories are definitely more valuable than others - I mean, the lyrics themselves make some elements very clear.

Speaking of the songs, a few got my attention, sure: Dream surprised me with the unexpected cacophony and became instantly captivating. Mucka Blucka first shows a clearer separation between voices, so it's very interesting to listen to it. Night is just so good it keeps getting stuck in my head every time I listen to it.

Also, The Mind Electric, The Soul Eclectic and The Bidding are a great triptych, especially because they come one after the other. (And yes, I know the real triptych is The Heart Acoustic, The Mind Electric and The Soul Eclectic, but the one about the Heart is too far from the other two.)

But actually, every song from the album is amazing and worth of attention. Each of them has a line I liked, a detail I enjoyed, a rhythm that stuck in my head. Each and every song is filled with love, care and attention.

So it's not a matter of which one I like: it's more of a "which ones I listen to more", because they are all great. Maybe, of course, I listen to the Calamity and Cacophony parts more than the Concord part, but the Concord songs are so intimate and personal, they deserve some recognition as well.

[partybus11]

Washington DC Party Bus Adventures for Unforgettable Memories

When it comes to exploring the vibrant heart of the United States, Washington DC stands out as a city teeming with history, culture, and excitement. And what better way to immerse yourself in the capital's charm than with a thrilling party bus adventure? At ADC Party Bus, we specialize in turning ordinary journeys into extraordinary experiences, offering luxurious transportation that ensures your time in DC is nothing short of unforgettable.

The ADC Party Bus Experience

Step aboard one of our sleek, late-model party buses and prepare to be whisked away on a journey like no other. Our fleet boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including plush seating, premium sound systems, and LED lighting, setting the stage for an epic adventure through Washington DC's iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Exploring the National Mall

No visit to Washington DC is complete without a stroll along the National Mall, home to some of the nation's most revered monuments and memorials. With ADC Party Bus as your guide, you can cruise past the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Reflecting Pool in style, pausing to snap photos and soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of these historic landmarks.

Cultural Delights in Georgetown

For a taste of DC's trendy and eclectic side, look no further than Georgetown. Hop off the party bus and explore the cobblestone streets lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafes. Whether you're in the mood for shopping, dining, or simply people-watching, Georgetown offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Nightlife Extravaganza

As the sun sets over the city, Washington DC comes alive with an electrifying nightlife scene. Let ADC Party Bus be your designated driver as you hop from one hotspot to the next, experiencing the vibrant energy of DC after dark. Whether you're hitting up the trendy bars of U Street or dancing the night away in the bustling clubs of Adams Morgan, our party buses ensure that the party never stops.

Customized Itineraries

At ADC Party Bus, we understand that every group has unique preferences and interests. That's why we offer customizable itineraries tailored to suit your specific needs. Whether you're planning a bachelorette party, a corporate event, or a sightseeing tour with friends and family, our experienced team will work with you to create a personalized adventure that exceeds your expectations.

Safety First

While we're all about having a good time, safety is our top priority at ADC Party Bus. Our vehicles are meticulously maintained to ensure optimal performance and reliability, and our professional chauffeurs are trained to prioritize the well-being of our passengers at all times. Sit back, relax, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you're in good hands with ADC Party Bus.

The Essence of DC's Neighborhoods

Beyond the well-trodden paths of the National Mall and Georgetown lies a tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. With ADC Party Bus as your guide, you can delve into the soul of the city and discover hidden gems that often escape the radar of tourists. From the vibrant murals of Shaw to the historic row houses of Capitol Hill, our party buses offer a front-row seat to the rich tapestry of DC's neighborhoods.

Culinary Delights

No journey through Washington DC would be complete without indulging in the city's culinary delights. From world-class restaurants to bustling food markets, DC offers a feast for the senses at every turn. With ADC Party Bus, you can embark on a gastronomic adventure, sampling everything from authentic Ethiopian cuisine in Adams Morgan to mouthwatering seafood in the Wharf. And with our onboard amenities, including coolers and storage space, you can bring your favorite drinks and snacks along for the ride.

Historical Treasures

As the capital of the United States, Washington DC is steeped in history at every turn. With ADC Party Bus, you can explore the city's rich historical legacy with ease. Step back in time at the Smithsonian museums, where you can marvel at priceless artifacts and learn about the nation's past. Or embark on a guided tour of the city's historic neighborhoods, where you can trace the footsteps of presidents, activists, and visionaries who have shaped the course of American history.

Seasonal Spectacles

Washington DC is a city of endless surprises, with each season bringing its own unique delights. In the spring, the city bursts into bloom with the iconic cherry blossoms, transforming the Tidal Basin into a sea of pink and white petals. In the summer, you can beat the heat with a refreshing cruise along the Potomac River or a visit to the lush gardens of Dumbarton Oaks. And in the fall, you can witness the city ablaze with color as the leaves change hue, painting a picture-perfect backdrop for your party bus adventure.

Memorable Milestones

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a graduation, or a milestone anniversary, ADC Party Bus is here to help you mark the occasion in style. Our party buses provide the perfect venue for special events, with ample space to accommodate your guests and all the amenities you need to keep the party going. From custom playlists to personalized decorations, we'll work with you to ensure that every detail is just right, so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

In a city as dynamic and diverse as Washington DC, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in cultural delights, or hitting the town for a night of revelry, ADC Party Bus is your ultimate partner in luxury transportation. Book your Washington DC party bus adventure today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

[oathdublin]

From The Shelf | 5 Masterpieces From The Electronic Archive Of The Emerald Isle

Ireland, home to some of the greatest electronic musicians on the planet. Here's 5 of my favorite Irish records from the last decade, fresh from the shelf.

New Jackson - The Night Mail

Originally pressed in 2011 on Bodytonics 'POGO Recordings' imprint and later remastered on Mano Le Tough's 'Maeve' label in 2019 - they do not come better than this. Accurately painted as a 'below the radar anthem' by the RANSOM NOTE, 'The Night Mail' is a unique endeavor, unlike anything I have heard since its release.

Driven by rolling arpeggios, droning bass rhythms, and euphoric synth lines, all glued together by a masterfully blended vocal - it is everything you've ever wanted from an electronic record. A testament to the impressively broad catalog of sounds represented by David Kitt's 'New Jackson' moniker.

A record I could never afford on Discogs before its re-issue, but one that now sits contently on my shelf.

Stream | Buy

Kev Sheridan - Losing Someone Is Never Easy [Alone In Berlin EP]

Another beauty from the ever-growing back catalog of Mano Le Tough's 'Maeve' and a record close to my own heart - Kev Sheridan's 'Alone In Berlin EP'.

Snappy snares, lush pads, and melancholic chords - all combine to create this minimal yet emotionally eclectic affair.

It's not often emotion is encapsulated efficiently in a club-driven track, but Kev hit the nail on the head here. Packed with subtle tones of adapting to life abroad and produced at the hands of pure talent.

'Losing Someone Is Never Easy' earned its place on my shelf a long time ago and there it remains.

Stream | Buy

Lee Kelly - Our Place In Time [Excerpts From Layers Of Identity]

Daire Carolan's First Second Label [FSL] has never really failed to disappoint since its conception in 2011, with contributions from a broad array of Irish talents like ELLLL, Sputnik One and Thrust's Glimmerman - but there's just something about Lee Kelly's 'Excerpts From Layers Of Identity' that ticks all the boxes for me.

Mesmerizing strings, low-frequency basslines and underlying arpeggios complete 'Our Place In Time', a track I've had on repeat since it came off the press in 2019.

Stream | Buy

DeFeKT - Split My Mind [Magnetic Resonance]

"Few artists have been as pivotal in Ireland’s electronic evolution of the past decade as DeFeKT" [DJ Mag].

A playful affair with underlying tones of darkness and raw emotion, this EP is something truly special. Written in the midst of Matt's ongoing struggles with MS, this record is an immersive experience, one that allowed me to connect with an unfamiliar world.

'Split My Mind' became an instant dance floor anthem when it hit the shelves in 2019. Pounding kicks, acid basslines, lush arpeggios and mesmerizing pads - all the keys to my heart, served immaculately on a plate of wax.

Here DeFeKT uses his craft as an outlet to contextualize his experience and solidify his reputation as a modular mastermind who never falls short of the mark.

Stream | Buy

Bicep - Glue

There are few tracks in existence I vividly remember hearing for the first time, this will always be one of them. Responsible for nearly 200,000,000 streams on Spotify and now casually disregarded by many as "overplayed" - 'Glue' is an undeniable masterpiece.

Comprised of mellow breakbeats, stuttering synths, harmonic pads and a vocal that will enlighten your soul, this track as much an experience as it is a piece of music [so much so that the live version has become an 8 minute escapade].

Records that have seen the club as much as 'Glue' has are few and far between and armed with memories and beer stains, mine has probably seen the inside of my record bag more than it has my shelf - After all, records were meant to be played...

Stream | Buy

[toraashi]

[ red string of fate ]

akaashi keiji x gn!reader

[ warnings/genre ]

fluff, brief mentions of alcohol, language

[ word count ]

1,665 words

Akaashi found himself zoning out far too much lately. During work, during time with friends, over dinner, and now on his second date this week. Stirring his food around with his chopsticks, he spun his noodles, lifting them to his mouth, and making eye contact with his date across the table as he did so. Through the haze of his thick lashes, he watched as they prattled on about some mindless work topic, their free hand waving aimlessly while the other wrapped around a glass of wine. 

He desperately tried not to, but once again, his mind trailed off, sapphire hues flicking to the dainty red knot tied around his pointer finger, following the thread as it trailed in front of him before vanishing in the distance. Akaashi, like many others, had all but given up on this fantasy. Finding your soulmate. The one for you. It was an exciting concept as a teenager, knowing that there was one person in the world that the universe assigned as yours, someone unique and entirely catered to you and your soul. Alas, as time drew on, reality set in. True, the concept was exciting, but there were several billion existing on this Earth, and many times people's strings would lead them to a cemetery. People often never found their soulmates regardless, and Akaashi had heard of people avoiding them. It was a confusing system, all but a naive dream, and most learned to maneuver through life disregarding it. After years of high school revelation and the words of others insisting he just ignore it, he'd finally began branching out, hoping to find peace with another.

Wasn't it disheartening to commit to someone knowing that there'd always be someone better out there, though? He bit his inner cheek in thought, pushing his glasses up his face as the person seated before him sighed.

“Akaashi-san, are you even listening?” Chin raising, he glanced at them, lips curling into an apologetic smile. They cupped their cheek with their hand, eyes reprimanding and bitter. "Your head's always in the clouds, Akaashi-san. It's infuriating." He fought the urge to roll his eyes. Level-headedness was a trait he took pride in; clearly, this person wasn't observing him like he was them. 

"I was listening. It's been a long day at work. I'm sorry I seem distracted." Repressing the distaste in his tone, he searched their eyes for relent, waiting for them to continue their rant. The person across the table groaned loudly, sliding a hand through their hair before moseying it across the table, knuckles brushing up against his. Akaashi's entire body grew stiff at the contact, discomfort swelling his being as they followed the path up his arm to his face, eyes tender and reluctant.

"Akaashi-san, I really like you," Was this supposed to feel so wrong? He'd been on a few dates with this person, and maybe they'd been more invested than he noticed, but every dinner felt empty and meaningless to him. Gemstone eyes fluttering closed, he let an exhalation drop from his pursed lips, fingers withdrawing. 

"I don't feel the same. Perhaps we shouldn't reschedule this date." Akaashi cushioned his words with deliberate sympathy, features softening while their's hardened. Guilt stung like a dagger in the back, and in an instant, he was attempting damage control. "I'm sorry-" 

"Shut the fuck up. You've been leading me on this whole time." Flinching at their biting words, he averted his gaze to his food, eyebrows furrowing with annoyance. 

"We're just not compatible." A huff sounded above him paired with a jingle of keys. He made no argument as they slid from the ornate chair, fingers digging into their waist as they examined him with hostility.

"I hope you find what you're looking for, but don't bother contacting me again." Grimacing, the boy didn't look as his former date stormed from the restaurant, leaving him with both the bill and an empty seat. Dating was much too complicated, he decided. Was it really worth the heartache for something he wasn't particularly invested in? Running a straggled hand through the inky waves on his scalp, he reached for his phone and unlocked it. 

11:30pm. 

He worked early the following day. Perhaps his date walking out on him was for the best. 

The scarlet thread tied neatly around his finger seemed to glow beneath the flaxen lights of the Italian rooftop restaurant, and he sighed for the millionth time that night, flagging the waiter down for the check.

Soulmates. 

Maybe Akaashi was indeed just a romantic at heart, a raging eclectic who refused to settle for anything below the best. He'd always viewed himself as level-headed, but after countless dates initiated by bored co-workers, he never felt the pull he longed for in a partner. 

A pull. 

Akaashi raised his hand peculiarly, noticing as the thread grew taut, tugging in a specific direction. A skipped heartbeat and his eyes followed the string over the ledge of the second floor, through the myriad of cars parked impatiently at the stoplight and to a figure across the way. They held their hand up suspiciously, staring at a glittering amber knot. 

Akaashi rose abruptly, nearly knocking his table over before quickly rifling through the cash in his wallet, splaying a debatable amount on the white tablecloth before grabbing his coat and pacing briskly through the restaurant. The stairs felt eons-long, his feet slapping against the metal, glasses fogging with the intensity of his breaths, but he could hardly care. Every moment in his life led up to this one. Pushing through the line of people, he exited the building, the cool night air biting his cheeks and painting them a rosy red. The tug of his hand directed him, almost as desperate as he to meet this mystery person. From this distance, he could tell they were bundled in a thick shadow-colored jacket in an attempt to fight the cold and the color of their shoe as they stepped into a taxi- 

"Wait!" He shouted over the traffic, jogging in between cars, spouting apologies left and right between incessant honks, the drivers swerving to avoid his form. "Wait! Sorry, one second." His fumbling through lanes of cars seemed to catch the person's attention, and they instantly perked up, features flooded with panic and concern. They leaned to the cab driver as his foot met the pavement once more, holding a lone finger, a plea on their lips. Goosebumps littered his skin as he turned to them, shivering in his navy turtleneck. Now that he was here, he was unsure of what to say. He'd been so eager to stop them, he hadn't thought of the consequences of his impulsive choice. What if they didn't want to meet him? What if they were dating already? A flurry of questions and insecurities pelted his mind in milliseconds; he barely caught the playful quirk of their lips tainted by a breath of exhaustion. 

"Can I help you? My cab can't wait all night." Refocusing, he peered into the dripping hues of their eyes, watching as the color glimmered beneath nearby shop lights. Their hair was dusted with snowflakes that he longed to brush away. He felt a pull towards them, something he'd been missing in dates for his entire life. "Hello? Stranger?"

"Sorry," He chuckled, embarrassment leaking from his words. "I saw you from the restaurant roof across the street, and I think you're my soulmate." God, that was so embarrassing to say, and he wrapped his arms around himself in consequence, hiding from both the cold and their reaction. They stared at him with the widest eyes he'd ever encountered, cheeks tickling with a blush before they held up their hand, palm facing towards his shivering form. 

"Can you see my string?" His heart nearly thumped from his chest as he revealed his own, nodding slowly and bringing it towards theirs. An inch filled with longing and tension separated the pair's fingertips, and his breath hitched when they pressed their palm to his, smiling tenderly. "Is this okay? I can't explain it, but I feel a pull to you already? Is that weird?" A laugh rumbled in his throat, and he was shaking his head vigorously.

"No. I feel the same." Relief billowed from their lungs, and their fingers collapsed in the spaces of his. 

"Aren't you cold?" They whispered, peeking up at him through thick lashes, a reserved timidness radiating from their form. He hummed, lifting their hands once more, pressing a feather-light, almost polite kiss to the back. 

"I'm not." And he wasn't. In their presence, he felt warm despite it all. A few shy glances later and the cab driver interrupted the moment.

"Oi! Am I taking you or not?" Disappointment fluttered through their features at the abrasive words of the chauffeur, and they removed their hand from his. Lips parting to break the news, he moved first, spluttering words without consent from his brain. 

"I can take you home. If you're comfortable, of course." Sunshine shot through them like lightning at his suggestion, and they pulled on the sleeves of their jacket, grinning giddily. 

"Are you sure? You barely know me." He'd never been more sure of anything in his life, but he went light on the dramatics, eager to please and impress.

"Like I said, if you're comfortable." Casting him a sparkling smile, they nodded eagerly, turning to the driver and sending him away. 

"All right, Stranger, lead the way." They chortled, skipping to his side. Akaashi returned the enthusiasm, offering his hand. Taking it with pleasure, his soulmate hummed, allowing him to lead the way. Guiding them through throngs of people towards his car, he glanced back tenderly. 

“My name’s Akaashi Keiji.” The dreamy look that swam through their eyes had him swooning. 

"That's a lovely name." They cooed, squeezing his hand before speaking their own.

Akaashi could get used to this.