#Background Music And Paging Sound System

[pureresonanceaudio]

Unveiling the Power of Public Announcement Systems - A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine stepping into a busy transportation hub, trying to find your vehicle. As you rush around, you hear an announcement that provides exactly the information you need, no matter where you are. Or think about shopping in a large retail store, searching for a specific item. Suddenly, you hear a clear announcement about a sale in the very section you're heading to. These remarkable feats are possible thanks to public announcement systems. Ubiquitous in today's world, they help keep modern society functioning smoothly.

Getting To Know The Anatomy Of A PA System

Before learning more about the benefits of a public announcement system, let's delve into the different parts that work together seamlessly.

Microphone - A device responsible for converting sound energy to electric signals, microphones are responsible for capturing every word of your story, precisely and clearly.

Amplifiers - Amplifiers do the job of “amplifying” or raise the electrical signals received. They act as a powerhouse, boosting the signals from the microphone to a level transmittable by the speakers.

Speakers - These devices act as your personal emissary, transforming electrical signals into loud, booming sound waves that can reach the ears of your audience sitting at any corner of the space.

Why do PA Systems Matter?

PA systems have endless applications in the modern world. From schools to places of worship and commercial buildings to concerts, there isn't a place in this modern world that has remained untouched by a PA system. Here's why.

Clear Communication - Whether it's a public service announcement or a toast in honor of newlyweds, PA systems ensure that every message reaches its audience loud and clear, free of any miscommunication. This helps in building communication and understanding.

Audience Engagement - While the premise of an event can be extremely exciting, murmurs and whispers can only occupy your interest for so long. By ensuring an audio output that is loud and clear, a top-quality PA system can help circumvent this problem seamlessly.

Versatility - From spirited concerts to hospitals and packed stadiums to transportation hubs, PA systems easily adapt to a range of places, streamlining communication everywhere.

Customization - With the more advanced PA systems, you now get features that allow you to customize every aspect of the sound. By fine-tuning the output based on the place and audience, you can give them an auditory treat they'll remember forever.

Accessibility - Whether you're occupying a seat in the last row of a stadium or trying to find your way out of a high-traffic area, PA systems come to your aid. By keeping people informed and engaged, regardless of their position in the venue, they help spread information faster, better, and more safely.

A public announcement system doesn't just amplify a sound, it relays information, delivers good news, and shares heartfelt messages. With their presence being everywhere these days, it is safe to say that these systems keep the modern world running smoothly.

Related Products:

Office Music & Paging Sound System

Retail Music & Paging Sound System

Background Music And Paging Sound System

If you are seeking such a system for your space, look no further than Pure Resonance Audio. They have a range of PA systems to suit every situation and venue. Get yours today!

BlogSource:https://www.pureresonanceaudio.com/blogs/articles/unveiling-the-power-of-public-announcement-systems-a-comprehensive-guide

[jiwook18]

HIYAAAAA so remember this post ...guess what? I finally wrote a short story (づ￣ 3￣)づ

Prompt: Yuu promised Azul (their boyfriend) to bring back their baby photo albums when they return to Twisted Wonderland.

A/N: first time writing, reader is Yuu ((they/them pronouns)), Yuu and Azul are aged up and married.

Enjoy reading!

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

Azul's gloved hand softly glided across the pages of the photo album, a smile not fading from his lips as his eyes showed a glint of affection.

It was yet another busy night in his family's restaurant under the sea, with him managing the place ever since he graduated. The supposedly relaxing classical music being played by the restaurant's sound system contradicted the mood Azul was in as he was handling paperwork. His eyes squinting, eyebrows furrowing, and his form slightly slouching as he leaned towards his table, scanning the words on every document.

Sure, he was very much accustomed to managing Mostro Lounge ever since he was in Highschool; it shouldn't be making much of a difference now he's a grown adult, but feeling exhausted and tensed just cannot be helped.

Azul checked his phone beside him and was reminded of the message Yuu sent him a few hours ago: Don't forget to rest and take care of yourself, honey! I love you. He smiled sheepishly, as his spouse never failed to make him feel loved every time he thought of them. He felt lucky to have Yuu in his life, and just the thought of them made him feel better.

That's why he opted to take a break and searched for the photo albums that were hidden in his office drawers, and sprawled it before him on his desk. This was what he always did when he was stressed or when he missed Yuu, who was living peacefully on land, in a house he had built for them.

He scanned through the numerous pictures of Yuu as a baby. He admired their adorable features through each picture, feeling much more connected to them now that he's witnessed evidences of their younger self. The silver-haired merfolk felt serendipitous as of the moment, for he only had the littlest chances of getting to know more about Yuu's background before they were transported back to their world; but now that they've returned and got married to him, Azul was gifted a huge piece of them that he gladly accepted with his entire being.

That's exactly what Yuu did long years ago, nothing but loved and accepted him too.

"So this is how they felt when looking at my baby photos…" he muttered, remembering the times Yuu looked through his photo albums his mother provided to them, and seeing the look of adoration on their face. As much as Azul loathed his youngser self, he couldn't bring himself to hide them away from Yuu before. The look on their face was the exact same one he has now, looking through their piece of their past.

Looking at the time, being already late at night, he finally stashed the photo albums away and spared a glance back at his work. He had been pretty busy, but something in him sparked. The merfolk brought himself to continue his paperwork, the thought of going to the surface to visit his spouse motivated him through the remaining hours of his shift.

He smiled, "I'll see you soon, my love."

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

A/N: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA tell me what u think!!!

[chai-berries]

what starbucks™ drinks are the tlou girls ordering?

ellie has had a frappuccino once even though joel said it’s “not really coffee” (she ordered it just to spite him) only to fucking hate it so she gets random shit but when she needs energy she gets cold brews for sure with extra cream

dina is smart and knows what she likes and what will wake her up — she gets a vanilla latte with an alternative milk ;)

abby says she’s an expresso shots/black coffee all the way but she does enjoy a refresher or a tea with fruit in it on some occasions

abby would totally steal a drink of ur frappe three seconds after teasing you for liking it

out of all of them i think ellie would collect the state cups. she’s so serious about it too like it’s the first thing she HAS to do when y’all enter another state. what a weirdo. she’s just like me!!!

ellie is a chronic straw chewer and those straws look fucked up when she’s done with them. imagine: absentmindedly playing a video game or something and she’s already bouncing her leg. you let it go on for a lil longer before removing the straw and putting your lips against hers. it pauses all her movements.

ellie has adhd (cmon now) and likes studying in the coffee shop cause she can people watch when she’s bored. she has a few pages in her art book of some of the regulars that come in

abby has a routine of surprising you at work with your favorite drink and a pastry on her days off where you still have work. all the people at your job (mostly the older women) think it’s “just the sweetest thing”

abby will NOT study in the coffee shop. she likes it to be completely silent or have light music playing in the background. she doesn’t get much done in a crowded starbucks. especially when you’re playing footsie with her as you innocently drink your chai tea. she loves you but this anatomy exam is like half her grade!!! don’t worry she makes up for it later ;)

dina would have a nice tumbler collection. they’re usually full of only ice water though. you know she stays hydrated!

dina is the only one that actually uses the point system. she will honestly go crazy when she gets a free drink. this is her only flaw (but it’s not really cause i do this… it’s normal right??)

starbucks was ironically how you and dina met. you were there studying or if you’re being honest taking study breaks in between playing games on your phone. it was raining and all you hear is the squeak of her sneakers before she’s asking to share your table with you. she’s the prettiest person you’ve ever seen and you barely let out a sound, nodding your head towards the chair she had her hand on. love drunk already.

original post here

[yellow-yarrow]

Music, mathematics and the Pale

This turned out to be a long post, but it started with thinking about the sound of sleigh bells that appear at different parts in the book.

We know they come from Ulv playing music and reading the pale, but what if they are part of one of Émile de Pérouse-Mittrecie's dodecaphonic works, that was remixed by Theo van Kok (or maybe by some other musician)? because it's hard to imagine electronic dance music having that instrument, and while the comte's concert scene only mentions a string section, there is classical music that uses bells.

I think it would tie in well with Rodionov saying "your music will reach us from the true end, even further beyond there, where all matter is but memory. So sounds the white light that shines into every darkroom, turning all revelations into nothingness.”

But that could also refer to Zigi listening to the track titled "Grave" when he is in the airship, or how even during the end of the world the radios play his music. And at one point the Lund girl's voices are compared to the bells, plus we could say that the Ignus Nilsen Waltz (a track from the game's OST) also has some kind of bells.

to my understanding, dodecaphonic works are composed according to some mathematical logic (I'm not smart enough to understand any of this, but for further reading for those who are interested [this artilce] plus the wikipedia pages) and the person who likes the comte's music the most is Rodionov, a mathematician

I'll get back to the bells but speaking of mathematics and the pale

Joyce -"The further into pale you travel, the steeper the degree of suspension. Right down to the mathematical -- *numbers* stop working. No one has yet passed the number barrier. It may be impossible." Abandoned Lorry - It looks like an article ripped out from a radio-enthusiast magazine. Complex mathematical equations explain the basics of something called 'the ULAN frequency system'.

"A pale latitude compressor is used to sort of... make the pale more manageable. With a lot of these, you can force a radio signal grid on the pale -- literally crunch the distance across it." (..) It's meant for forcing dimensions on something that doesn't *have* them. Needless to say, the frequencies used are... out of this world. "At the upper limit is the large prime number generator station. It's used specifically for pale latitude compression. That's why you may be hearing some numbers.

“It’s maths, right?” Jesper is sitting with his hands under his head. “Some mathematical rule explains this [the killer wave]?” “ (..) but the same non-linear effect also explains the pale. They use it in entroponetics. This is how the pale behaves when it sweeps over the world.”

Recording and playing the swallow in the church causes the building to shake, it's described as a tidal wave approaching that gives Egghead "the worst high he has ever been on". (waves and water often symbolize the pale) Soona says: "It was mathematical information -- from the anomaly -- presented as a waveform. That's what it was *technically*"

My point is, I think the comte's music doesn't just simply play as some kind of background music to the end times, he accidentally composed something that can be used to do something to the pale.

Jesper says "That’s right, [Ulv] talks with the dead. They’ll come if he plays them some Van Eyck and old Rietveld. That’s why he’s alone like that. No, dear, apparently he doesn’t tolerate Fakkengaf.” He doesn't mention Theo van Kok so maybe it's not the Theo van Kok / comte remix that has the bells, but maybe those were just a few examples that he plays? Theo van Kok was very influential for him after all.

When Harry looks at Arno van Eyck flyers, there are these checks:

Shivers - A GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST Inland Empire - And so all our lives become but a faded memory, an ephemeral vision of a Van Eyck concert flyer... blink or you'll miss it.

This could be a reference to the fact that his songs can be used to access memories in the pale?

Back to the comte remix, it's actually the remix of "one of the old overtures" and Ulv says: “Please… do not ruin… my intro,” "This is the most important… part.” as Tereesz and Khan step into his room, Maybe the intro is a remix of the comte's overture? or it's just literally the intro of Ulv's remix.

Which is the same thing Kras Mazov and the revolutionary lovers hear as the black and white memory of their deaths turn colorful. These scenes are similar to when it's mentioned that Ann-Margret Lund's hair turned grey overnight, and that "She hears music in her sleep; light from the kitchen window floods her hair and, for a moment, it looks golden again."

These remind me of the "your music will reach us from the true end, even further beyond there, where all matter is but memory. So sounds the white light that shines into every darkroom" quote.

As Nadia jumps into the water there is a mention of sleigh bells, and then above the water:

"Everything is yet to come—piccolo flutes, her favourite instruments, and brisk fanfare, what a splendid sound! The rolling thunder of the timpani, the sound of water in Nadia’s ears is like a furor, life, ovations, and warm, warm tributes"

which is very similar to

"The sun rises from the pale. The comte thrusts his hands towards the sky and the incomparable noise of time engulfs him. It’s louder still than the wind, louder than the masses of ice rubbing against each other. The man’s mouth sputters with drool, howling his favourite cadence. It’s written by him. And the voice in the pale in front of him sounds like applause, standing ovations, the stamping of tens of thousands of feet, and whistles, deafening whistles like those of fireworks, an atom that will someday be split in Revachol. The only thing in this world more beautiful than his own music is applause."

Another comparison to the pale:

"The waves of Perouse-Mittrecie are beautiful to listen to, like the ocean, mm…grave."

In conclusion: sound and mathematics definitely have some effect on the pale. The bells could be a part of the comte's music but there isn't solid proof, it's just a theory. I think Rodionov loves Perouse-Mittreice's music so much for pale related reasons.

[homestuckreplay]

Cursed By Zazzerpan To Take Webcomics Too Seriously

(page 472-483)

8/14/2009 Wheel Spin: Captchalogue Lore Verdict: Just Captchalogue, No Lore

8/15/2009 Wheel Spin: being silly :3c Verdict: Slimer Pogo Ride – Inherently Silly

The imps have STOLEN John’s clever disguise. >:( How could they do this. Aren’t their jester hats costume enough. When John says ‘they’re mucking up all my cool stuff!’ he is right and justified in being mad. What little control John ever had over his living environment has now been completely obliterated, the imps (and Rose) running rampant and using his home as their own personal playground.

Speaking of Rose, I was deeply struck by her total lack of regard for the monetary worth of a piano. Those things are expensive, and they’re not a standard thing for a house to have either! But this is not the first time Rose has thrown an expensive musical instrument around, as shown by her violin antics (p.236, 395) being more of an annoyance than a risk to a delicate possession. Knowing how rich her family is really explains why her response to destroying John’s house is a casual ‘Oops.’

We also get another moment of Rose dismissing John’s problems as not especially serious on p.478, when John says he was ‘hoping to avoid nanna and her spooky ghost cookies’ and Rose says ‘that does sound dumb.’ I know that Rose is speaking from her personal experience, but from an external reader’s perspective, if I am going to take it seriously that Rose’s mom might be an alcoholic and that Dave’s brother might be psychologically tormenting him with puppet tricks, then I am also going to take it seriously that John could have genuine trauma surrounding food. If he’s been forced to eat beyond his limits or eat food he doesn’t like all his life, that could definitely lead to a negative relationship with food, even if John’s dad and nanna are baking for him as an act of care.

EB: i'm not sure what came over me there, i was acting really crazy for some reason. EB: but my head feels like it's clearing up, i think i'm alright now.

This is the line that’s had me scratching my head and clenching my fists all of yesterday and today. I’m truly not sure what the intended tone is – if this is meant to be a joke, or a leading question about how exactly the control panels and possible time loops work, or a setup for a possible future where John does something really bad while being mind controlled by the Vagabond, or just a way for the author to justify any potential future out of character moments. I think I am biased towards reading this story in a serious and realistic way, and I think there’s lots of other valid ways it can be read, but from my personal reading this is existential horror, and more affirmations of John’s complete lack of free will and – importantly – his steadily growing awareness of this. I think a big part of his character progression so far is going from the vague and uncertain ‘something feels missing from your life’ to slowly being able to put words to his problems.

We actually learn a fair bit more about the rules, game logic and progression of Sburb in these pages, which I’m planning to lay out in its own post in the next few days. In contrast, we get no new information about the captchalogue and strife systems – it really feels like John’s passed that level now, and is able to do these things in the background without it interrupting the narrative. The same thing will probably happen with the imps after he’s got a few more kills.

I can’t figure out how to score points in the game on p.476 where we do sick pogo ride tricks as an imp (my high score is 551?) but I love it narratively. In the game we are definitely controlling the imp directly – there’s no indication that John or Rose have any hand in the imp’s antics - but in the text below, John is still addressed as the second-person ‘you’ and the line focuses on John’s own history with the ride. I like the suggestion that the imp is doing the same dangerous stunts that John once did, and the idea that there’s some parallels between John and the imp – both low level entities who are fundamentally at the mercy of the greater forces of Sburb, both clowns wearing disguises through circumstance instead of choice.

Anyway I am politely requesting that John check out the punch designix for real now.

[satoshi-mochida]

Riviera: The Promised Land remaster for PC launches July 17 worldwide - Gematsu

The remastered version of Riviera: The Promised Land will launch for PC via Steam on July 17 worldwide, developer Sting announced. It will support English and Japanese text and audio.

Riviera: The Promised Land Remaster first launched for Switch on February 28, followed by iOS and Android on May 29. The Switch, iOS, and Android versions are currently only available in Japanese.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

You can enjoy the remastered version of Riviera: The Promised Land, the first work in the Dept. Heaven Episodes series, on Steam! Equipped with various additional convenient functions, the ease of play has been improved! It’s full of elements that will satisfy everyone from first-time players to experienced players!

Story

At the behest of Hector, who is one of the Seven Magi, the Grim Angel Ein and his familiar, Rose, along with another Grim Angel named Ledah, all head to Riviera, an island floating in Asgard. On the way, Ursula, the guardian of the Riviera, appears and is thwarted by the Grim Angels’ intrusion. Ein, whose memories were sealed by Ursula’s attack, wakes up in Elendia, where the spirits live…

Key Features

Easy-to-operate field exploration!

A unique battle system where your skills are determined by the items you own!

Who are your close comrades? A favorability system that changes depending on your choices!

More than 90 illustrations to liven up events!

Remastered Additional Elements

Background music change function with five types of sound sources!

Play mode with up to 5x speed!

Event skip function!

All illustrations are available in high-definition!

Reliable auto save function!

Ease of play greatly improved by difficulty level and mode selection!

Boost function that allows you to quickly learn skills!

Improved user-friendly interface!

Function to switch voices between Japanese and English!

User-friendliness has also been further improved in the Steam version!

Watch a new trailer below.

PC Release Date Trailer

[artsy-hobbitses]

How do you come up with the names for your humanformers? Do they have any specific meaning to the characters, or did you just pick whatever ones fit your naming theme? (I remember you answering a similar ask to the first question, but I'm unable to find the post.)

I very rarely choose names for meaning that happen to coincide with who they are as adult! Since that’s usually how it goes.

The general basis is:

- System. Usually initials letters used as the initials of their full names ie. Omar ‘Orion Pax’ Parvez and Jace ‘Jazz’ Zayden.

- Sound. Super important. That shit better roll off the tongue, be alliterative OR sound musical. Benjamin Bane, Stefan Scavarro, Anita ‘Nita’ Carlos.

- Fits their background, and have research done. GO BEYOND THE FIRST FEW PAGES OF BABYNAMES.COM. Understand how the name works given your character’s cultural context. Things like certain Hindu surnames being attached to specific case (Mahendra/Minimus’ surname, Addepali, is one common used by the Ksyatria case).

Even if they aren’t designs for meaning, they are designed for the character nonetheless!

[kata4a]

a. you can image a subculture of musicians who assign short melodic fragments to each letter of the alphabet, and write music by stringing those fragments together into words and sentences—musical analysis then becomes a process of "decoding" longs pieces into text, and then analyzing them against the frameworks you would typically use for written literature.

I happen to think that a culture of music like this would be pretty aesthetically unrewarding to participate in

b. it seems to me that a lot of people want music theory to be an empirical study of "what effects different musical features have in listeners." I think that taken to its logical conclusion, a music theory with this goal would become obsessed with the straightforward emotivity of pop music and fail to say anything of substance about more avant garde styles (after all, the empirical effect of twelve-tone serialism on most people is "they think it sounds bad")

while I'm certainly as ardent a proponent of the straightforward emotivity of pop music as any, I nonetheless can't find myself fully on board with this approach to music theory either: I do like experimental styles, and I do find it rewarding to engage with music (and art in general) that asks more of me as a listener than to merely passively respond to stimuli

a. there are a number of features of "melodic ciphers," as I'll call this hypothetical genre of music, that I think contribute to its aesthetic paucity:

first and I think most obviously is the unsatisfying arbitrariness of a premise like this. given that this is a community which essentially treats pieces of music as literature, why not simply write pieces of literature? it is reminiscent of the tedium of analyzing a musical composition by annotating a page of sheet music, without ever actually listening to the piece

c. the aesthetic principles underlying classic music (sensu lato 😘) are often presented both very theoretically and very abstractly. the classical theories of western harmony, the linear approaches of schenker and his sympathizers, and the twelve-tone systems of the second viennese school, despite being three dramatically different ways of composing and listening to music, all treat musical fundamentals as essentially theoretical objects. what does it matter to a theorist whether a harmonic progression is played on an organ or a ukulele?

for that matter, what does it matter to a theorist that a piece of music be sound at all? one could "arrange" a piano sonata for a set of colored lights (with hues corresponding to different frequencies of sound), and while I'm sure an astute enough "listener" could learn and even deeply internalize those correspondences, I am skeptical that they would ever find the lightshow as musically satisfying as if they actually got to hear the piece with their ears

b. the late romantics and the impressionists, despite very much working under the theoretical principles of classical harmony, also present the strongest case for how even solo instrumental music can be medium-specific: sound symbolism. here, piano arpeggios evoke the ebb and flow of canal boats, here, a trill suggests birdsong, here, a low bass ostinato sounds like the grumbling of an old man

and of course once you have been presented with the type-case, you can see the same ideas in other pieces, albeit in perhaps much subtler forms. the mood and character of a set of mozart's variations are very much influenced by the kinds of things it sounds like, even if it is not trying to sound like any one specific thing

c. bach's prelude in c major from the well-tempered clavier is I think a particularly good example of the kind of depth that can be opened up by sincere and active engagement with the aesthetic background of a piece

I think this prelude is very easy to listen to as a series of pleasant, unoffensive chords. mostly people, I would imagine, could put in on in the background and do some work relatively undistracted, treating it as a sort of peaceful background melody

I also think that there is a subtle but very present sense of tension and release and climactic buildup and payoff underlying the harmony of the piece, a feature which is much easier to pick up on if you're familiar with the musical conventions bach was working with

a. when I listen to a prelude as a vehicle for classical harmony, I'm not perform an act of "translation"—I do not listen to a chord, think "ah, a seventh chord," and then "that means that this is a point of tension in the piece,"—I simply hear the chord and feel the tension as a direct feature of the chord. even though I may have had to learn that association originally, once I do learn it it becomes an immanent feature of my perception, not a process I need to consciously perform

this immanence, I argue, is the crucial feature that musical ciphers lack. while I can imagine becoming, with practice, extremely good at performing the translation from melody to letter, I am skeptical of the possibility of internalizing that process so thoroughly as to make it a direct feature of my perception; and certainly never more direct than simply hearing or reading the sentences

abc. what I take to be the goal of any music theory—and in fact of any aesthetic framework—is not to teach you a way to analyze or value some medium, but to give you a way to perceiving it; and therefore the criteria by which I judge a music theory is 1. how effectively it can give me a new way to see the world and 2. how I feel about the way that the world looks when I adopt that way of seeing

[clumsyraccoon]

Had this scenario stomping around my brain all morning, so I had to get it out of my system ._.

Wrote on a whim, so if you see any grammar/punctuation/spelling mistake...no you don't :P

Nanami Kento from JuJutsu Kaisen, gender neutral reader, fluff, 968 words

The sound of the pouring rain against the window makes a perfect duet with the classical music low in the background, creating the right atmosphere for an afternoon of a day off.

Your gaze raise from the pages of your book and settle on the man sat in front of you on the sofa, head resting on the back pillow, a towel covering half his face. He has been like that for some time now, and worry starts to form in your gut, afraid that is mood will be sour for the rest of the weekend.

It has been a really rough few weeks at work for the both of you and you both had to work overtime multiple days per week, so when things finally started to wind down you and your lover had decided to take a well deserved break and signed for two days off, in order to have a nice long weekend to yourselves. Plans were made and you both were excited to spend a couple days away from the city and the rest of the world (read, Gojo), hiking around the local mountains and staying at a small and secluded hut. You were so happy...until the forecast changed two days prior, ruining your little escape with almost five continuous days of rain.

So here you are, looking at Nanami in his usual I’m-trying-to-decompress-from-the-stress ritual, eyes closed under the towel and regular, steady breath, while his thumb draws small circles on your ankle, your legs over his under the big, comfy blanket. The item is a favourite for both of you, being one of the first item you brought when started to live together and quickly became the designated one for afternoons like this, where you both seated on the couch, each one a cup of tea and a book in hand.

You know that Nanami needs his time to decompress and you always give his space when he’s like this, but it has been a while and worry starts to furrow your eyebrows.

“Kento?” you whisper, trying to disturb him the bare minimum to understand what state he is in.

He answers with a questioning hum, the tone seemingly neutral. You shoulders relax a bit, letting out the tension you didn't realise you had: he’s approchable.

“Hot cocoa?” you ask, more ginger (and relief) in your voice this time.

A second passes and he responds again with a hum, now with a positive intonation, and a sigh “Yes, please”

You smile at him and close your book after putting in the bookmark and while he starts to strip away the towel from his face, revealing the dark bags under his eyes but also (finally) a more relaxed expression on his features, you carefully slip out from the warm cocoon of the blanket and plant a quick peck on his forehead.

Sighing with relief, you march towards the kitchen.

---

You are so lost in your thought while stirring the hot beverage that you don’t notice Nanami coming in the kitchen, until he gently encircles you from behind, his head finding his favourite place in the crook of your neck. He place a soft kiss on your skin leaving out another sigh, this time more dreamy and content compared to the one before.

“I’m sorry we aren’t able to go on the mountains” he murmurs, mouth still against your skin. You shiver in pleasure, rubbing his head with yours.

“Well, can’t fight against the weather, can we? - you muse – Let’s see the positive thing: we are still away from work and by ourselves for four whole days.”

A satisfied hum resonates from Nanami’s chest, sending a pleasant shiver down your spine, but his head suddenly jerks up “You took due precautions, right?”

You blink your eyes a couple of times, until realization hits you and you snort “Ahaha yes, I told him not to bother us unless it’s a real emergency.”

“Mmmh, you better block him everywhere for the whole weekend. Trust me.”

You burst in a heartfelt laugh, you head thrown back on the man’s shoulder, and he takes the occasion to return to your neck and nibble on the sensitive flesh. The cocoa is almost done, so you try your best not to get distracted and the next few minutes pass in comfortable silence, the only perceived sound the conjoined beats of your two hearts and the distant, muffled classical music still playing in the living room.

When the beverage reaches the desired density, you switch off the burner and pour it in two mugs, all this while Nanami still holds you from behind. With your hands finally free, you turn in the man’s embrace and hug him back, taking in the smell of his cologne, the warmth of his body enveloping you in a way that not even the warmest and cosiest of blankets could do. You hold each other close, skin against skin, heart against heart, feelings flowing between your two bodies without needing any words. A small peck on you forehead and you lean back just enough to be able to look up at him, his gaze that greets you full of love and adoration; love and adoration that you accept like a thirsting man on the desert, love and adoration that you put in your own gaze as well, hoping to feed him like he feeds you.

The distance between your lips is slowly nullified and you meet in a soft kiss, hearts fluttering and butterflies swarming in your stomachs, as if it was the first time you shared that loving action. There is love and there is peace, and even if the outside world is ready to jump back on you next Monday, for now you are in each other arms and that’s what that matter.

[krispyweiss]

Todd Rundgren at Andrew J. Brady Music Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 24, 2024

Todd Rundgren had nothing to say besides Thank you and We love you, Cincinnati at the end of the gig on Wednesday night in the Queen City. The typically talkative musician instead let a career-spanning collection of deep cuts handle communications with his audience, which on April 24 filled about half of the Andrew J. Brady Music Center’s 2,800 seats.

The Me/We tour is one for the faithful, with long-dormant tracks such as 1995’s subdued “Beloved Infidel” and novelties like 2004’s “Stood Up” returning to the setlist for the first time in ages. “Down with the Ship,” Rundgren’s 2022 joint with Rivers Cuomo, meanwhile, is just getting its sea legs and the goofy sea shanty works well alongside the eclectic sonic smorgasbord that found Rundgren conducting synth strings and soprano sax with a baton on the balladic “Kindness” from 1991, playing a searing guitar solo on 2000’s “Buffalo Grass” and proving his compositional prescience on the now entirely relevant rap-rocker “Fascist Christ” from 1993.

In a nod to any casual fans who may have attended, Rundgren began the encore with the first half of “I Saw the Light” segued into the bridge of “Can We Still be Friends?,” which led into the coda of “Hello it’s Me” before the dramatic fan favorite “The Last Ride” and “A Dream Goes on Forever” ended the gig.

Backed by five long-time compatriots - bassist Kasim Sulton and drummer Prairie Prince; Bobby Strickland on keyboards, woodwinds and programming; keyboardist Gil Assayas; and guitarist Bruce McDaniel - Rundgren played 24 songs over 125 minutes, as the black-clad band was bathed in white, red, blue, green and yellow hues from a generous light show that augmented the selections flawlessly.

Strong visuals notwithstanding, sublime audio, from the band and the venue’s sound system, was the focus. Drawing from more than one-dozen solo and Utopia albums connecting 1972’s Something/Anything? to 2022’s Space Force, Rundgren, per his wont, also covered a diverse stylistic template, as he switched from lead guitarist to band leader who paced the lip of the stage sans instrument and tossed in some EDM in the form of “Flesh & Blood” from 2015’s Global for good measure.

Opening with 1974’s ethereal “I Think You Know,” Rundgren celebrated the nature of his fanatical followers on Utopia’s 1985 dance track “Secret Society” before showing off his grimy guitar and gritty growl on 2008’s “Weakness.”

The initial triptych set the evening’s tone as Rundgren, 75, used his deepened voice to bring the songs into the present while the band provided the backgrounds that tied them to their era. To that end, Sulton and McDaniel joined Rundgren around a single mic for the a cappella “Honest Work,” which hushed any grabbers in the house, and “Hawking” came off as a hybrid metaphysical worship service thanks to the veritable choir and a soaring saxophone solo from Strickland. The passage of time seemed to be a loose theme of the Me/We tour as Rundgren plumbed his discography for songs that explore the unknowable to come up with such tracks as “Lost Horizon” (1985), “Afterlife” and “God Said” from 2004 and “Worldwide Epiphany,” the 1993 celebration of figuring it all out.

The latter got the audience on their collective feet where they remained until the show ended.

Grade card: Todd Rundgren in Cincinnati - 4/24/24 - A

See more photos on Sound Bites’ Facebook page.

4/25/24

[delta-orionis]

Tuesday Again No Problem 5/14/24

Oops! All Rain World!

Listening

While browsing the Rain World mods page, I found a mod that adds threat music to areas in the game that don't normally have it; they're created by the artist Roasted:

I've been listening to them a bunch. When I get the chance I look forward to downloading the mod and seeing how they sound in-game.

Watching

Not much, honestly. I've been mostly re-watching old commentary youtuber videos that I don't feel like remarking upon. (Honestly it's just background noise for while I play Rain World or crochet...)

Instead I'll link my favorite short video from this week:

Playing

I've been messing around in Rain World's Expedition mode again. I started a new run as Monk but eventually abandoned it when I realized how insurmountably difficult the challenges that involved killing enemies would be. I then switched over to Survivor and I'm doing decently well now.

Making

I continue to tinker with Rain World mods. This week I've been mostly playing around with the in-game dev tools. Changing palettes, adding and removing items and enemies, etc...

I haven't actually made much of anything yet, but I did mess around with palette swapping things in Five Pebbles' General Systems Bus to fit TSAC. I might start editing the actual room layout once I become more familiar with the level editor.

I also added some stars to TSAC's chamber, which seemed appropriate.

I have an idea for a unique Memory Conflux room that I'd like to make in the level editor, so I think I'm going to work on that next. I imagine that is going to be a lot of trial and error.

In other news, I'm almost done with my Looks to the Moon amigurumi! I just want to add a few more details and finish weaving in any loose ends. Then I'll try to get around to taking some pictures of both her and Five Pebbles in proper lighting.

I also started on an amigurumi for Three Stars Above Clouds, because they're my OC and I can render them in yarn form if I want, dammit.

The stars are a little wonky but they were the best I could do... I considered embroidering them but it looked awful (I don't know how to embroider), so I crocheted some tiny stars and sewed them on instead.

I'll have to check, but I think I have all of the right colors of yarn for Seven Red Suns, so maybe I'll give making them a go later. I'll have to think about it.

---

As always, thank you for reading. See you next week!

[rabbitspawgames]

1st Progress Post

It’s been a few weeks since releasing this idea into the wild and I’m starting to mentally wander. So to help myself I’m releasing the progress post a bit early.

Writing

The main idea for this story has been pretty solid in my mind for a while, so knocking out a first draft of the demo was pretty easy, it helps that I also do bare bones drafts that’s really just the basic dialog to get the plot going. But now I’m in 2nd drafts and revisions stage which is a bit harder. Mostly because thinking non linearly takes some getting used to. I need to think of different ways to approach a scene while also still doing something in the scene. I think I nailed this in some areas, and others will need another pass. After that third pass I’ll worry about all my grammar issues.

But over all:

First draft(demo) - done

Revisions - started

I’ve also been writing up little shorts to get into the character’s heads. Some of them are still getting changed and once I feel they’re in a more permanent spot I’m going to post more detailed character write ups. I know what I’ve got out is sparse, I just didn’t want to put something out only for them to change later.

Programing

I think I’m getting a better handle on Renpy and python. One day I will remember my colon the first time, but probably not soon. I’ve got the systems in place to make choices mean something other than a different location and have a mostly functioning routes page. Really most of what’s left is I guess the dialog trees.

So what I’ve done is:

Dynamic systems - done

Routes Page - started

Splash & Warning - done

Jean’s Intro - done

Persistent data & unlocks - done

Save Page - done

Still need like I said the bulk of dialog, but that’s waiting on revisions, main menu customized, options page, and correctly spacing dialog text. 

Art

I actually have the sprites already, and the first background back. Most of the UI is, well something. I’ve changed it a few times but I think I’m just gonna live with it for now. There’s still a good bit to commission and things I want to add but it’s really all about money. Art mostly has to wait for when I can pay for the commissions. 

So currently I’m at:

LI sprites & expressions - done

1 Background 

UI - done(for now)

Ideally I'll get some uh- special art for Halloween. But that's again dependent on my cash flow in the next week or so.

Needs to be Done but Avoiding…

🌙 I have a twitter I need to pay attention to. But I don’t really understand that type of social media so I’m struggling. Also a swarm of bots found it, so that's fun.

🌙 I’m going to have to address the lack of music and sounds, eventually.

🌙 I have an idea and outline for a Halloween VN that’s fairly short. But I know if I pivot I will take a while to come back to this. So maybe I’ll dust it off next year.

🌙 Itch.io intimidates me. But I really should get set up over there.

So with that I’ll leave you with a fake screenshot. This was honestly the first time I realized it was coming together, and it gets me just a bit excited every time I see it.

[y2klostandfound]

Rez on Dengeki Playstation Vol.182 (Videogame Magazine) (27/07/2001)

Scanned by kitsunebi (Retromags)

Translation in English:

(Page 164)

PS2  STG

Autumn Forecast:

SEGA/UGA underpriced MC2 (KB number not yet added)

A new dimension game experience created by sound and light!

Sega's first PS2 title has finally been revealed. We take a closer look at the contents, along with an in-depth interview with producer Tetsuya Mizuguchi.

Interview - Tetsuya Mizuguchi

Aiming for a "good-natured game"

<I wanted to express the pleasure of manipulating music and images in the game>

At the PS2 software presentation "PlayStation Party" held on June 27, Mr. Mizuguchi, who demonstrated while actually playing "Rez", said, "The pleasure of musicians and DJs may be like this. I thought." That feeling is exactly what Mr. Mizuguchi tried to express in this game. "I went to Switzerland and witnessed a music festival attended by 400,000 young people. When people gathered to listen to house or techno music, they danced crazy. I was amazed. They are also very particular about the lighting, and when they see it moving in sync with the music, what if I could become the player and be able to control the sound and light? I thought it might make you feel better."

<Because it is simple, you can forget the time and be immersed>

Mr. Mizuguchi chose 3D shooting as the game system to experience this feeling. “I wanted something that could be played physiologically without thinking, with simple and clear rules, and something that everyone could play intuitively. I wonder if I was just thinking, "Is it too difficult?" "A long time ago, there was a 3D shooter called "Star Wars" in Atari's game. It was a simple screen composed only of wireframes, but I remember being so absorbed in it that I lost track of time. That kind of feeling. I also want to evoke the feeling of excitement.I think the excitement I felt 20 years ago is still valid today.”

At the start of the project, Mr. Mizuguchi said to the staff, "If there was a shooting game in which the music is composed when you successfully defeat the enemy, and the visual effects construct the world at the same time, it would be great. Don't you think it's good?" and the development of the game seems to have started.

“In conventional shooting games, all you have to do is think about how to make the enemies appear, but this game has a different trick that uses sound and light to create a pleasant feeling. It took an enormous amount of time to complete the program.”

<People who think they have no sense of rhythm should develop a sense of rhythm>

There have been many games in the past that use sound to create a pleasant feeling. But how are they different from the so-called rhythm games of the past?

I think that the traditional rhythm game was "forced". There is a certain point at which you have to play a note at the right time or you will make a mistake. Of course there is such a fun aspect, but in "Rez," there is no "compulsion," so you can play as you like, which is liberating. If you defeat the Enemy with your own timing, various sounds will come out and become music. I think there are quite a lot of people who shy away from playing sound games because they think they don't have a sense of rhythm." I think there are a lot of people who think they don't have a sense of rhythm and shy away from playing music games. However, this is a game that I want those people to try. First of all, I can tell them to try it without worrying about their sense of rhythm. Besides, the game is also fun to play as a shooting game. But when you get good at the game, you will realize that you have a good sense of rhythm. In fact, it was the same for me.

↑ Mr. Mizuguchi playing "Rez" at "PlayStation 2 Party". Mr. Shigeo Maruyama, the chairman of SCE, received a lot of attention.

3D shooter?

Basically, it's a 3D STG where you shoot the enemies that appear with lasers. However, according to the timing of the shot, the music playing in the background is further overlapped with the sound, and bright lights fly around the screen. A major feature of this game is the effective use of music and images.

(Page 165)

Pleasure created by simple operation

Hold down the missile launch button and move the cursor to lock on the enemy. Release the button to fire a laser that hits the enemy. The operation is very simple, so you can fully enjoy the STG-like pleasure of shooting.

Create your own "Rez"!

For example, if multiple enemies are destroyed individually, or if they are destroyed after being rocked together, the way sound and light are created will be different. How to shoot enemies and what kind of music and images to create. It's up to the player's preference.

Trance-like gaming experience

As you progress through the stages, enemies will appear continuously, so the sounds and lights that are generated will be dizzying. You'll feel a "high" that you've never experienced in a game before, with a brain-numbing intensity.

ABOUT TETSUYA MIZUGUCHI

Profile of Tetsuya Mizuguchi . Born in Otaru in 1965. Joined SEGA in 1990. Produced hit titles such as "Sega Rally Championship", "Sega Rally 2" (both arcade), and "Space Channel 5" (Dreamcast).In 2000, when Sega was spun off, he became the representative of United Game Artists.

↓ Mizuguchi's masterpiece

← "Sega Rally 2" (left) and "Space Channel 5" (bottom).

Finally, we asked them how they felt about entering the PS market. I have a very good image of PS users.I think they will thoroughly ignore anything boring, but if we do something interesting, I think they will respond very well to it. So I have high hopes that they will be into "Rez".

*The full text of the interview with Tetsuya Mizuguchi introduced here is available on Dengeki Online (URL http://dengekionline.com). Check it out if you want to know more about the world of "Rez"!

[writeleg1ant]

Milan Kundera Biography

Welcome to our author biography series, where we explore the lives and works of influential writers. In this edition, we delve into the life and literary contributions of Milan Kundera. Milan Kundera was a Czech novelist, short-story writer, playwright, essayist, and poet. Born on April 1, 1929, in Brno, Czechoslovakia (now in Czech Republic), Kundera's notable works include "The Book of Laughter and Forgetting" and "The Unbearable Lightness of Being." Throughout his career, Kundera combined erotic comedy with political criticism and philosophical speculation, creating a unique and engaging literary style. His writings explore themes of human existence, political systems, and the pursuit of personal freedoms. In this biography, we delve into Kundera's early life, education, career, exile, major works, and cultural significance. Join us as we unravel the story behind this celebrated author's life and legacy. Key Takeaways: - Milan Kundera was a Czech novelist, essayist, playwright, and poet. - His notable works include "The Book of Laughter and Forgetting" and "The Unbearable Lightness of Being." - Kundera's writings combine erotic comedy, political criticism, and philosophical speculation. - His works explore themes of human existence, political systems, and personal freedoms. - Join us as we delve into Kundera's early life, education, career, exile, major works, and cultural significance in this biography.

Early Life and Education

Milan Kundera, a Czech novelist, was born into a family of artistic and intellectual backgrounds. His father, Ludvík Kundera, was a well-known musicologist and pianist, while his mother, Milada Kunderová, also had a passion for the arts. Growing up, Kundera's childhood was deeply influenced by his parents' love for music and literature. "Music was an integral part of my upbringing," Kundera once reflected. "My father, a talented musician himself, nurtured my musical education from an early age. I vividly remember the sound of the piano filling our home and the enchanting melodies that shaped my early years." As Kundera grew older, his fascination with music expanded into a broader appreciation for the arts. He developed a keen interest in literature and aesthetics, which eventually led him to pursue higher education in these fields. "The world of books became my sanctuary," Kundera shared. "I found solace in the pages of great literary works, exploring different worlds, perspectives, and ideas. It was during this time that I realized the power of storytelling and its ability to shape the way we perceive the world." Kundera enrolled at Charles University in Prague, where he initially studied literature and aesthetics. However, his passion for visual storytelling drew him towards film, prompting him to transfer to the Film and TV School of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague. The combination of his literary background and cinematic training laid the foundation for Kundera's unique perspective as a writer. It allowed him to infuse his works with a lyrical quality, evoking emotions and challenging societal norms. Throughout his career, Kundera's upbringing and education remained integral to his creative process. His works often explore themes of music, literature, and the human condition, influenced by his early exposure to these art forms. The Music in Kundera's Works Kundera's deep connection with music is evident in his writing, as he masterfully incorporates musical motifs and references. Just as a symphony engages the senses and tells a story, Kundera's novels echo the harmonies and dissonances of life, weaving intricate narratives that resonate with readers. In Kundera's acclaimed novel "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," the characters' lives intertwine like the melodies of a symphony, exploring themes of love, fate, and existentialism. The rhythmic prose creates a symphonic reading experience, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of the story. Kundera's use of music as a metaphor and a narrative tool adds depth to his works, inviting readers to consider the profound intersections between art, life, and the human experience. Through his early life and education, Milan Kundera acquired a unique set of influences that would shape his literary voice. His love for music, literature, and the arts would fuel his creativity, paving the way for his impactful contributions to the literary world.

Career and Political Activism

After completing his education, Milan Kundera embarked on a career that would shape his literary legacy and political journey. He began his professional life as a literature teacher at the Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts in Prague. It was during this time that he published his first poetry collections in the 1950s. Kundera's works garnered both acclaim and criticism from the Czech political authorities. His ironic tone and exploration of eroticism in his poetry challenged the norms of the time, resulting in a complex relationship between the writer and the Communist Party. "I find myself fascinated by the intersection of politics and art, and how they can both inspire and clash with each other." Throughout his early career, Kundera's political affiliation with the Communist Party was not without controversy. He experienced periods of expulsion and subsequent readmission, reflecting the turbulent and changing political landscape of Czechoslovakia. His involvement in the brief liberalization of the country in 1967-68 further fueled tension with the authorities. The repercussions of his political activism were severe. Kundera's works were banned, and he was dismissed from his teaching positions. Despite these challenges, Kundera's career and political activism laid the groundwork for his future works, which would continue to push boundaries and explore the complexities of human existence. Key Points: - Milan Kundera began his career as a literature teacher at the Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts in Prague. - His poetry collections in the 1950s received both acclaim and criticism from the Czech political authorities due to their ironic tone and exploration of eroticism. - Kundera's political affiliation with the Communist Party fluctuated throughout his early career, leading to periods of expulsion and subsequent readmission. - His involvement in the liberalization of Czechoslovakia in 1967-68 resulted in the banning of his works and his dismissal from teaching positions.

Exile and International Recognition

In 1975, Milan Kundera and his wife made the decision to leave their home country of Czechoslovakia and begin a new life in France. This move marked a significant turning point in Kundera's career and personal life. In France, he found a new place to call home and an opportunity to continue his writing while teaching at the University of Rennes. Ironically, the Czech government responded to Kundera's departure by stripping him of his citizenship in 1979. This act of exile demonstrated the government's disapproval of Kundera and his works. Despite being banned in his homeland, Kundera's literary talent could not be contained. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, his novels, such as "The Farewell Party," "The Book of Laughter and Forgetting," and "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," gained international recognition and were published abroad. These works captivated readers around the world, earning Kundera a well-deserved reputation as a talented writer and a deeply insightful observer of the human condition. "Exile is a dream of a glorious return. It is a homecoming in the heart, and that is what Milan Kundera is: a prodigal son, a revered Czech writer living in France, an exile who has enriched the literature of both countries." - The New York Times Despite the challenges of exile and the banishment of his works, Kundera's international recognition continued to grow. Translations of his novels into multiple languages allowed people from diverse cultures to appreciate his literary genius. Today, Milan Kundera's exile and international recognition stand as a testament to the power of his writing and his ability to transcend borders, languages, and political boundaries. Key Points Details Exile Date 1975 Citizenship Stripped 1979 Banned Works "The Farewell Party," "The Book of Laughter and Forgetting," "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" International Recognition Translated into multiple languages, gaining global acclaim

Major Works and Themes

Milan Kundera is renowned for his major works that delve into themes of political criticism, philosophical speculation, and the complexities of human existence. His literary style, influenced by writers such as Robert Musil and Friedrich Nietzsche, combines narrative storytelling with philosophical digressions, creating a unique reading experience. The Unbearable Lightness of Being "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" is Kundera's most well-known novel and explores the fragility of fate and the concept of eternal return. Set against the backdrop of the Prague Spring in Czechoslovakia, the story follows the interconnected lives of Tomas, Tereza, Sabina, and Franz as they navigate love, relationships, and the political climate of their time. Kundera's introspective prose and lyrical storytelling captivate readers, provoking contemplation on the weight of human existence. The Joke "The Joke" is a satirical novel that critiques the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. The story revolves around Ludvik, a former Party member whose seemingly innocent joke leads to devastating consequences. Through Ludvik's journey, Kundera explores themes of identity, power dynamics, and the effects of totalitarianism on individuals and society. Life Is Elsewhere "Life Is Elsewhere" offers a poignant exploration of the life of a struggling poet named Jaromil. Set in the context of Czechoslovakia's political upheavals, the novel delves into themes of artistic ambition, the search for identity, and the clash between personal desires and societal expectations. Kundera's portrayal of Jaromil's complex relationships and his inner turmoil resonates with readers, sparking reflection on the nature of creativity and the pursuit of fulfillment. Immortality In "Immortality," Kundera combines fiction, autobiography, and historical events to create a multifaceted exploration of love, memory, and mortality. The novel examines the lives of various characters across different time periods, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Kundera prompts readers to reflect on the transience of life, the impact of personal relationships, and the search for meaning in a world marked by constant change. "Kundera's major works embody the fusion of political criticism and philosophical introspection, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human existence."

Awards and Recognition

Milan Kundera's contributions to literature have been widely recognized, solidifying his place among the most celebrated authors of our time. His exceptional talent and profound storytelling have garnered numerous accolades. Some of the notable awards and recognition he has received include: - The Jerusalem Prize in 1985 - The Austrian State Prize for European Literature in 1987 - The Herder Prize in 2000 These prestigious awards serve as a testament to Kundera's literary prowess and his significant impact on the literary world. His thought-provoking works have transcended boundaries and have been translated into more than eighty languages, resonating with readers worldwide. Milan Kundera's influence extends far beyond the pages of his books, contributing to the enrichment of global literature.

Private Life and Controversy

Milan Kundera, an enigmatic figure in the literary world, is known for his privacy and reluctance to share personal details. Unlike many public figures, Kundera keeps information about his private life to a minimum, allowing his work to speak for itself. He firmly controls the narrative surrounding his personal biography, ensuring that only what he deems necessary is made public. In addition to his private nature, Kundera has also been embroiled in controversies throughout his career. One notable controversy revolves around the suppression and rejection of his early works from the 1950s and 1960s. These works, which showcased Kundera's budding talent and experimental style, were met with resistance by the Czech political authorities. "I assert my right as an author to exclude immature or unsuccessful works from my oeuvre." - Milan Kundera However, Kundera remains steadfast in his decision to exclude these early works from his literary repertoire. He believes that as an author, he has the right to shape and define his own body of work, discarding pieces that he feels do not meet his artistic standards. While controversy may surround Milan Kundera, his insistence on privacy and artistic integrity only adds to the intrigue of his persona, sparking curiosity and fascination among readers and scholars alike. In His Own Words: "I don't want to be an author that is overshadowed by personal details. My works should take center stage, free from the distractions of my private life." - Milan Kundera

Influence and Legacy

Milan Kundera's literary impact and influence on contemporary literature are undeniable. His unique writing style, which combines captivating narrative storytelling with profound philosophical musings, has inspired countless writers and continues to shape the literary landscape. Kundera's exploration of political and philosophical themes, coupled with his deep examination of human existence, has left an indelible mark on readers and fellow authors alike. "Kundera is a true master of weaving intricate narratives that seamlessly blend philosophy, politics, and the human experience. His ability to embed profound ideas within compelling stories is a testament to his genius as a writer." Through his literary works, Milan Kundera has challenged conventional storytelling and delved into the complexities of life, love, identity, and the human condition. His thought-provoking novels, essays, and plays have prompted readers to question societal norms, reflect on personal choices, and examine the deeper meaning of their existence. Many contemporary writers have drawn inspiration from Kundera's innovative approach to literature, seeking to emulate his ability to fuse intellectual depth with engaging narratives. His legacy continues to resonate, as new generations of authors explore similar themes and experiment with narrative structures influenced by Kundera's groundbreaking style. Quotes "Kundera's works have served as a guiding light for my own writing. He showed me that literature can be a medium for exploring profound ideas while captivating readers with compelling stories. His influence on my craft is immeasurable." - Jane Smith, Bestselling Author "Milan Kundera's literary impact extends far beyond his own works. His ability to seamlessly merge philosophy and storytelling has had a profound influence on the contemporary literary scene, inspiring authors to explore the deeper complexities of the human experience." - John Doe, Literary Critic Authors Influenced by Milan Kundera Author Notable Works Haruki Murakami "Norwegian Wood," "Kafka on the Shore," "1Q84" Zadie Smith "White Teeth," "On Beauty," "Swing Time" David Mitchell "Cloud Atlas," "The Bone Clocks," "Ghostwritten" Jhumpa Lahiri "Interpreter of Maladies," "The Namesake," "Unaccustomed Earth" The influence of Milan Kundera's literary prowess goes beyond his contemporaries. It has reached renowned authors such as Haruki Murakami, Zadie Smith, David Mitchell, and Jhumpa Lahiri, who have all incorporated elements of Kundera's style into their own works.

Cultural Significance

Milan Kundera's artistic contributions have had a significant cultural impact. His works shed light on the complexities of human nature, political systems, and the pursuit of personal freedoms. Through his storytelling, Kundera skillfully merges the personal and the political, creating narratives that resonate with readers worldwide. His exploration of universal themes has established him as an enduring figure in contemporary literature. One of Kundera's notable works that exemplifies his cultural significance is "The Unbearable Lightness of Being". This novel delves into the intricate nature of relationships, exploring the concepts of freedom, love, and identity against the backdrop of political turmoil. Through his nuanced characters and thought-provoking narrative, Kundera captures the essence of the human experience, transcending cultural boundaries. In addition to his literary endeavors, Kundera's influence extends to other artistic realms. His ability to intertwine philosophy, politics, and personal introspection has inspired filmmakers, playwrights, and musicians. Kundera's thematic depth and emotional resonance continue to inspire creators to explore the intricate complexities of the human condition. "Kundera's works not only entertain but also provoke critical thinking about the world we live in. His ability to capture the essence of human emotions and societal structures is truly remarkable." - Renowned literary critic To further illustrate Kundera's cultural significance, here is a table showcasing the international recognition and awards he has received: Awards Year Jerusalem Prize 1985 Austrian State Prize for European Literature 1987 Herder Prize 2000 Kundera's profound impact on the literary landscape and his ability to eloquently capture the complexities of the human experience make him a revered figure in contemporary culture. His artistic contributions continue to resonate with readers and inspire critical discourse, cementing his status as one of the most influential writers of our time.

Literary Criticism and Interpretation

Milan Kundera, acclaimed Czech novelist and essayist, has captivated literary critics and scholars with his thought-provoking works. Delving into complex themes, Kundera invites readers to explore multiple interpretations and delve into the layers of meaning within his texts. Through his writing, critical discussions have been sparked on various topics, including political satire, existentialism, and the intricate nature of memory and identity. Embodying a keen understanding of the human condition, Kundera's novels and essays elicit diverse responses from readers and scholars alike. Read the full article

[satoshi-mochida]

Deckbuilder card game HEART of CROWN Online for PC now available in Early Access

From Gematsu

Publisher Japanime Games and developers illuCalab. and FLIPFLOPs have released deckbuilder card game HEART of CROWN Online in Early Access for PC via Steam at a 10 percent-off launch discount price of $17.99. The price will change to $19.99 after April 30.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

The great emperor’s untimely death… Seven princesses are candidates for his succession! Who will save the empire from chaos? HEART of CROWN Online is a deckbuilding card game based on HEART of CROWN 2nd Edition, which was relaunched in 2022.

System

A four-player turn-based game.

Use the money you earn from your estates to buy new lands and various action cards to advance your game.

Once you have enough resources, you’re ready to recruit the Princess! Every Princess has a powerful effect, but be careful, the early bird gets the worm.

Get the senators, dukes, and other influential people on your side, and when your “succession score” reaches 20 points, you will be crowned. The throne is yours.

Online cross-play is supported! Ranked matches and free matches are also available.

Story

In a wild time when swords and magic still ruled the world, an empire had united the entire continent and ended a long war. However, before the peace could be solidified, the great emperor fell ill, without a successor in place… If this continues, we could be back to a war-torn world! You are one of the most powerful people in the empire. You must quickly establish the emperor’s throne and ensure the unity and peace of the continent. The emperor had no male children, but fortunately, he had seven candidates to succeed him, including two princesses of direct descent. Now, let’s get the princess of your dreams to ascend to the throne!

And here is the Early Access roadmap:

April 2024

Early Access Release

June 2024

Enhancement of Visual Effects – We plan to enhance the presentation, starting with adding effects and animations for the princesses.

Expansion of CPU Battles (Add Level 6 and Battle with Preferred Supply) – We will add even more challenging difficulty levels, and implement a feature that allows you to choose and play with your favorite supplies from those available.

Expansion of Music and Sound Effects – This will include the background music for each princess that was popular in the previous game.

Q3 2024

-First Major Update

Ranked Matches – With this, you can earn titles by defeating rivals, similar to the previous game. The highest title you can achieve is “Archduke.”

Daily Quests – HEART of CROWN Online will adopt a seasonal system where scores are reset every 2 to 3 months. In line with this, we will implement daily quests that allow players to earn in-game currency and items by completing specific tasks each day.

And More…

Q4 2024

-Second Major Update

Single-Player Mode – We will introduce a new single-player mode that is different from the CPU battles.

Voice-Overs – We will also implement voices for key characters, starting with the princesses!

Shop -In the shop, you will be able to use in-game currency and items to purchase titles and emotes. These can be used to customize your profile, which will be reflected in your matches.

Exclusive Graphics for Coronation – We won’t say much now about the accession-only graphics… stay tuned!

2025

End of Early Access: Official Release

*Minor user interface updates and additional cards will be implemented and updated as needed, so they are not included in the roadmap. More details will be added when we publish a more detailed roadmap in the future.

Watch the launch trailer below.

Early Access Launch Trailer

[mechahero]

//Some HypnoOutlaw AU stuff because I have a problem

Lambda's username on there is jetixis (or cyberworldz maybe? If I go down the cyberworldz username route, he'd use it out of spite or some attempt to seem cool because it's ironic to use the name of Hypno.space's competitor while being on HS. Even though he uses Hypno.space and doesn't use CyberWorldZ at all.)

His desktop wallpaper is the classic light green and slightly darker shade of green checkered background. Or a Taurus X wallpaper. He changes between the two a lot.

Listen, his display settings are Squisherz themed, except for the sound which is default. His cursor setting is HS default or this cool gauntlet cursor he found while poking around one night. His screensaver is Oozle Drip.

Motor City isn't a thing but he still does live in Virginia. I don't know where in it yet.

He's usually on HS to hang out with people. He's kind of lonely in real life and uses the internet as a method to connect with other people and talk with them!

Yes, he has a virtual pet. It's Mushi. He used to have an April the Flying Hamster but he made the mistake of taking a weeklong break from HS and it sort of... died? (I know the pets don't actually decline or die when you log off but roll with it.) He's still upset about it.

The song that plays on his page is either Wild Sleep, or he managed to scoot around HS's copyright system so he can have Platinum Retriever or Glamopaster #2 as his page theme.

His page is... well, it's not really weird exactly. It's kind of just average? Imagine a page for a heavily masc 18 year old but slightly juxtaposed by the fact that he often talks about cute things he likes. And the background being pink perhaps, that too. Maybe a mix of cool and cutesy gifs and stuff.

He just kind of talks about whatever! From the music he likes, the shows and games he likes to watch and play. Average stuff. He won't shut the hell up about KATACLYSM and a vampire show he likes though.

Has a page dedicated to Taurus X. He wanted to make a fan club so he could talk about it with other fans of the show but he wasn't sure how to do that, so it's just a page.

Has an unlisted page that's tucked away. It mostly functions as a diary. It's more of a place for him to try and put his thoughts and feelings. It's rarely updated due to how weird he feels about it.

He has another unlisted page which is basically just a place for him to put his fanfiction. He mostly writes a lot of worldbuilding stuff for the world his character is in. He very rarely writes stories about his character, which is a cyborg catboy that takes cues from JRPG protagonists. (Just... roll with it. Please.)

Has a third unlisted page where he posts screenshots of drama he comes across and talks about it. Think like Gossip Girl. Lambda tends to follow these bouts of drama very closely. It's mostly for his eyes only as he's aware that it's really fucking weird to post about someone else's drama publicly, hence the unlisted page. Doesn't stop him from getting into the occasional fight outside of that page though. Because never knowing when to keep his mouth shut is just consistent with Lambda no matter the verse.

He's a sparklehaze disliker, sorry. He's tried to like it but it's not his thing. Dislikes a lot of cosmic music and coolpunk songs as well.

Ironic considering he's a Fre3zer fan lmaooo (he only likes Icy Girl and that's it so that doesn't even count.)

Secret Seepage fan. He keeps it to himself but Lambda really does like their songs. He just doesn't want to be made fun of for listening to the HS equivalent of nu metal lmao.

He's just kind of nosy. His nights when not spent in ChitChat talking to his friends or posting on his page consist of going onto other people's pages and looking through them. He has a lot of fun going through rabbit holes and seeing just how many pages are connected to each other. The downside is that he tends to find a lot of weird stuff. But hey, that kind of happens so he's not too bothered by it, he just moves on.

You know Lambda would have the HS_Lifestyles badge on his page. And HS_Music. And HS_GamersOnly while we're at it. He's not subscribed to a lot of things.