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influencermagazineuk · 2 years ago

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Discover the Best Attractions to Visit in London

London, the vibrant capital city of the United Kingdom, is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and historical sites. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply eager to explore the city's rich heritage, London offers an array of must-visit attractions. In this article, we'll unveil the top attractions that should be on your itinerary when visiting this captivating city. Tower of London: The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a medieval fortress steeped in history. Explore its ancient walls, visit the Crown Jewels, and witness the famous Beefeaters guarding the premises. Immerse yourself in the stories of kings, queens, and notorious prisoners as you wander through the tower's chambers. British Museum: For a journey through human history and culture, the British Museum is a must-see. Home to an extensive collection spanning thousands of years, this world-renowned museum showcases artifacts from around the globe, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and ancient Greek sculptures. Buckingham Palace: No visit to London is complete without witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Marvel at the grandeur of the official residence of the British monarch and stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace. Check the schedule in advance to witness this iconic tradition. Westminster Abbey: Immerse yourself in centuries of British history by visiting Westminster Abbey. This magnificent Gothic church has witnessed royal weddings, coronations, and burials of notable figures. Admire its stunning architecture, explore the chapels, and pay your respects at the Poet's Corner, where literary greats rest. The British Library: Book lovers and history enthusiasts should head to the British Library, one of the world's largest libraries. Browse through its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents, including original works by Shakespeare, the Magna Carta, and the Gutenberg Bible. The Coca-Cola London Eye: Experience breathtaking views of the city from the Coca-Cola London Eye, a towering Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. Take a ride in one of the glass capsules and marvel at the panoramic vistas of iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul's Cathedral. The Tate Modern: Art enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit the Tate Modern, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station. Explore its vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks, including pieces by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The Victoria and Albert Museum: Delve into the world of art, design, and fashion at the Victoria and Albert Museum, known as the V&A. Discover an eclectic mix of exhibits, from ancient sculptures to intricate fashion garments. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and showcases works from around the world. The Natural History Museum: For a journey through the wonders of the natural world, the Natural History Museum is a must-visit. Marvel at the dinosaur skeletons, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about Earth's diverse ecosystems. Don't forget to take a picture in front of the iconic Diplodocus skeleton in the main hall. St. Paul's Cathedral: A symbol of London's resilience, St. Paul's Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece. Climb to the top of its dome for breathtaking views of the city, admire the intricate mosaics, and discover the fascinating history behind this iconic cathedral. The Globe Theatre: Step back in time to Shakespearean England at The Globe Theatre. Experience the magic of live performances in this replica of the original open-air theater where Shakespeare's plays were first staged. Catch a play or take a guided tour to learn about the theater's history and significance. The Science Museum: Embark on a journey of scientific discovery at the Science Museum. This interactive museum offers a hands-on exploration of various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge technology. Engage in interactive exhibits, witness captivating live demonstrations, and expand your knowledge of the natural world. Hyde Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Hyde Park, one of London's most beloved green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll along its serene pathways, rent a paddleboat on the Serpentine lake, or have a picnic in the lush surroundings. Don't forget to visit the beautiful Kensington Gardens within the park. Covent Garden: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden, a bustling district known for its street performers, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Explore the market stalls, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in delicious food from around the world. The Shard: For unparalleled views of London's skyline, head to The Shard, Western Europe's tallest building. Take the high-speed elevator to the viewing platform and marvel at the panoramic vistas stretching across the city. Time your visit to catch the sunset or see the city lights illuminate the night sky. Camden Market: Experience the eclectic and bohemian spirit of Camden Market. This vibrant market is a haven for fashionistas, foodies, and music lovers. Browse through unique stalls offering vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and international cuisine. Catch a live music performance at one of the iconic music venues nearby. Greenwich: Discover the historical and maritime charm of Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Royal Observatory and stand on the Prime Meridian, where the Eastern and Western Hemispheres meet. Explore the Cutty Sark, a 19th-century sailing ship, and stroll through the beautiful Greenwich Park. Kew Gardens: Nature enthusiasts should not miss Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's most famous botanical gardens. Wander through its enchanting landscapes, discover exotic plant species, and explore magnificent glasshouses, including the iconic Palm House. The Victoria and Albert Museum: Art lovers shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, known as the V&A. Discover an eclectic mix of exhibits, from ancient sculptures to intricate fashion garments. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and showcases works from around the world. Hampton Court Palace: Step back in time to the Tudor era at Hampton Court Palace. Explore the magnificent palace rooms, wander through the lavish gardens, and experience the world-famous Hampton Court Maze. Immerse yourself in the history of Henry VIII and the Tudor dynasty as you walk in the footsteps of royalty. London offers an abundance of attractions that cater to all interests and preferences. From historical landmarks like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey to art galleries like the British Museum and National Gallery, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and artistic wonders. With its beautiful parks, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks, London guarantees a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Plan your itinerary wisely and embark on a captivating journey through the vibrant city of London. Read the full article

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discoverhowitworks · 2 years ago

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Discover the Best Things to Do When Visiting London

London - A Traveler's Delight - Tips, Tricks, and Must-See Sights

London, the capital city of England, is one of the most popular destinations in the world for travelers and tourists alike. With a rich history and vibrant culture, London offers a unique experience that is both fascinating and unforgettable. From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower Bridge to world-renowned museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery, there is always something to see and explore in this bustling city. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or entertainment, London has something to offer for everyone.

When visiting London

You can immerse yourself in its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and charm. From the trendy streets of Shoreditch to the historic district of Westminster, you can experience a range of atmospheres and vibes. But London is not just about its sights and sounds. It's also a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines, offering some of the world's most delicious and diverse food options. From traditional fish and chips to trendy fusion cuisine, you can satisfy your taste buds with a variety of dishes. With so much to offer, it's no wonder that London attracts millions of visitors every year. If you are planning a trip to this vibrant city, we have got you covered. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to London, including the best places to stay, eat, and explore. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover all that London has to offer.

Planning a trip to London?

Are you planning a trip to London, and wondering what to see? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the top attractions and must-see sights in this beautiful city.

Iconic Big Ben

First on our list is the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, one of the most recognizable landmarks in London. You can take a tour of the parliament buildings and learn about the history and workings of British politics. And while you're there, don't forget to take a photo with Big Ben in the background. Big Ben is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, England. Located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock tower. The tower itself is officially called the Elizabeth Tower and stands at over 96 meters tall. Completed in 1859, Big Ben has become a symbol of British culture and is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors from all over the world coming to see and photograph the famous clock tower.

Tower of London

Next, head over to the Tower of London, a historic castle that has served as a royal palace, prison, and armory over the centuries. Here, you can see the Crown Jewels, take a tour of the castle's towers, and even meet the Tower's resident ravens. The Tower of London is a historic castle located in London, England. Founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower has served as a royal palace, prison, and armory over the centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming to see the Crown Jewels, take a tour of the castle's towers, and even meet the Tower's resident ravens. The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and fascinating exhibits.

National Gallery

For art lovers, the National Gallery is a must-visit. This museum houses a vast collection of European paintings, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Botticelli. The Tate Modern, another popular museum, is located in a former power station and showcases contemporary art from around the world. The National Gallery is an art museum located in Trafalgar Square, London, England. It was founded in 1824 and houses a vast collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The museum boasts over 2,300 works of art, including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Van Gogh, and Botticelli. With free admission, the National Gallery is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering visitors the chance to view some of the world's most celebrated works of art in person.

Warner Bros Studio

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Warner Bros. Studio in London – The Making of Harry Potter. Here, you can see the sets, costumes, and props used in the beloved movie series and even ride a broomstick like a real wizard. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a must-visit attraction for fans of the Harry Potter book and film series. Located in Leavesden, just outside of London, England, the studio tour allows visitors to step behind the scenes of the beloved movie franchise and see the sets, costumes, and props used in the films. Highlights of the tour include the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 3/4. Visitors can even ride a broomstick like a real wizard! The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a popular attraction, and tickets must be booked in advance to ensure availability.

Notting Hill

For a more laid-back experience, visit the famous Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. This colorful market offers a variety of antiques, clothing, and food stalls. It's the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and experience London's vibrant street culture. Notting Hill is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood in west London, England. Known for its colorful houses, bustling markets, and lively atmosphere, Notting Hill has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Portobello Road Market, a famous street market that dates back to the 1800s, is located in Notting Hill and offers a variety of antiques, clothing, and food stalls. The neighborhood is also home to a number of stylish shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring. Notting Hill is easily accessible by public transportation and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to London.

What to see in London: 10 Places You Can't Miss

- The British Museum: This world-renowned museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. - The Tower of London: Explore the castle's rich history, see the Crown Jewels, and even meet the Tower's resident ravens. - Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms of the Queen's official residence. - The London Eye: Take a ride on the famous Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of the city. - Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament: Take a tour of the iconic clock tower and the historic seat of the UK government. - St. Paul's Cathedral: Visit the magnificent cathedral, which has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years. - The National Gallery: Admire the masterpieces of European art on display in this world-famous museum. - Tate Modern: Explore the world's largest museum of modern and contemporary art, housed in a former power station. - Westminster Abbey: This historic church has hosted countless royal weddings, coronations, and funerals over the centuries. - Notting Hill: Visit this trendy neighborhood in west London, known for its colorful houses, bustling markets, and stylish shops and cafes.

Something for everyone

When it comes to food, London has something for everyone. From traditional fish and chips to trendy fusion cuisine, you can satisfy your taste buds with a variety of dishes. Be sure to try some of London's famous street food, such as a classic British pie or a delicious curry from Brick Lane. To get around London, consider purchasing an Oyster card, which allows you to use the city's extensive public transportation system, including the iconic red double-decker buses and the underground tube. Be sure to pack an umbrella and a light jacket, as London's weather can be unpredictable. And remember to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time in this amazing city. London is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and excitement. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip. Whether you're interested in art, history, food, or shopping, London has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and get ready to experience all that this amazing city has to offer! Read the full article

#BigBen #BritishMuseum #BuckinghamPalace #England #London #LondonEye #NottingHill #sightseeing #St.Paul'sCathedral #TateModern #TouristAttractions #TowerofLondon #Travel #Visiting #WestminsterAbbey

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ingravinoveritas · 3 years ago

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I don’t know if anyone has seen the pilot of Heart To Heart--a web series in which David Tennant plays the heart of a dying 21-year-old lesbian (a.k.a, Lump)--but it is actually hilarious and also quite touching. The first two episodes are now available to view, along with a Q+A with the creators.

As mentioned, David voices the titular organ and utters a number of deeply filthy/memorable lines (including but not limited to “ya funky little lesbian,” “ice vole and ermine,” at least three instances of the word “pussy,” and making actual high-pitched breathy sex noises), while sounding like a drunk, lecherous Scottish pirate the entire time.

What was interesting to me, however, was that in the Q+A panel, one of the creators said that David mentioned during recording that he almost never uses that particular voice--a heavy, camp Glaswegian accent--for roles. And as I thought about it, it occurred to me that the one other role of note where he used that accent was the Ghost of Christmas Present in Nan’s Christmas Carol with Catherine Tate.

(Screencap chosen because he just looks so goddamn cute here.)

In many of the roles David’s played, he’s had to do accents other than his own. An RP accent for Doctor Who and Shakespeare, an English accent for Crowley, an American accent on a few occasions (god help us, please never again). Even when he’s gotten to have a Scottish accent--such as in Secret Smile--it’s more often than not toned down for the audience. (The one exception, of course, is Broadchurch, where Alec Hardy’s accent is aggressively Scottish and seemingly much closer to David’s own.) The thing about Lump the Heart and the Ghost of Christmas Present, though, is that they are decidedly non-straight roles, and in both cases, David’s accent takes on a different quality. It almost feels like the roles and the accent represent a part of him...a part that maybe David has had to keep hidden a lot of the time. The camp and the flamboyance of these roles seem as equally connected to a possible part of David’s sexuality as to who he is overall--a Scotsman living in London who knows that people who sound like him are perceived a certain way (and most especially so if they’re not 100% straight). But Scotland--especially the area of Glasgow--is where David’s heart lives. It’s his home. So maybe these particular roles are where and how David can “go home” again, and feel the most safe to express that part of who he is.

I also keep thinking about Good Omens 2 filming in Scotland, and how significant that is to David, and that hopefully it will mean he can see his family while he’s there. Maybe he would want to be Michael’s personal tour guide, too...showing him where he grew up in Paisley and chattering excitedly about the landscape and the people and all sorts of little things. (And of course Michael would be completely enchanted by David’s adorable enthusiasm.) And maybe there--in Scotland, with Michael--is another place he’d feel safe to be himself. l hope so, anyway.

So, yes. Those are just some observations I had about some of the delightful new David content we’ve been treated to recently. Always wonderful to see (or in this case, hear) him lighting up the screen...

#david tennant #soft scottish hipster gigolo #heart to heart #good omens 2 #i hope David knows that he is lovely #and deserves good things #also 'we suffer many ailments darlin' but heterosexualism isn't one of them'#will forever live rent-free in my head #ALL THE AWARDS to David for that one #i'm just saying #bisexuality #david is lowkey bi and michael is highkey bi #thoughts #discourse

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whatdoesshedotothem · 4 years ago

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Tuesday 16 September 1834

Very good one last night. fine but hazy morning F57° at 8 35 am - at my desk at 8 ½ - kind letter to M- glad she had found out by means over which I had no control that ‘I had even written less often to those who are perpetually heaping upon me kindness after kindness, and whose very situation in life makes them supposed to be the1st objects of my consideration’ –........ if ‘not more heart, I had more common sense than to value the things of this world according to the scale which has been laid down for me – Had you believe me often, and known me better, it would have saved us both much pain - But if heaven has willed it otherwise, let us not complain – the final ruler of events is wiser than we - I am deeply sensible of all your affection, but from the moment of your having deliberately told me your determination and the leading arguments which gave rise to it, my chief endeavour was to be convinced and reconciled - Mary! You trusted me too little for happiness - Remember this, and be comforted – cheer up- trust me, you have much to hope – much more than you seem aware – the prospect will [be] brighter by - by I have never failing consolation in the thought, that you will be happier in others, than you could have been in me - Confidence was too much shaken on both sides - Mary! The last blow on mine, was too severe - Be comforted – be assured, that you have acted wisely for us both – violent changes are generally irksome to all parties at 1st, but, remembering what I myself have suffered, I do not easily despair for any one - I do not feel inclined to say much on the subject of our meeting – the reflections to which it would give rise, could only be painful - Do as you think best’ - Hope ‘her niece’ will exceed her all her expectations - ‘I can easily enter into your motive for calling her Percy’ – pleased at the thought of her going to the Rhine next year – only anxious about her choice of a companion - mention Geneva as a fine town ‘having many literary and economic advantages’ – that a family of 2 or 3 might live in affluence at Rolle for £250 a year – date my latter ½ page 3, Monday 15 September and say it shall go at last night, the herald of the small parcel (stays, 6 laces, pair of earrings from Geneva and book, Coxes’ picture of Italy edition of 1815 too old – barrowed when last at Lawton December 1833) to be sent off by me of today’s mails - ‘I found my aunt much the same as I left her, and Mr Sunderland told me, he thought her general health quite as good – but she is uncertain – this season of the year, or rather later, has generally tired her very much, and I fear, if she gets over the winter at all, it will be very indifferently – she suffers a great deal, yet her cheerfulness does not forsake her – she desires me to give her love, and say how glad she shall be to hear you are better - The 30 shillings for Thomas Beech’s great coat are paid, and I will place this sum to your account - If you do not feel quite sure of my understanding all your wishes about money matters, tell me more particularly what you would have me do - God bless you, my dearest Mary! Ever very especially yours. A. L.’ nice enough letter to Lady S- will consider about the fourgon ‘when I am more able to fix upon my next line of route’ - ‘I am perfectly astonished that I had your letter 12 days ago, and that I had been at home a fortnight on Saturday - I know not how the time has slipped away - I have been so busy about my law-concern, etc the days have seemed like moments, and I have scarce been out of the house - yet I have often thought of you, and wondered how you would settle all those disagreeableness I was so grieved to hear of...... mention letter from Vere - shall go and see her one of these days - at present can make no plans - ‘my poor aunt suffers a martyrdom; yet still she lives, and may live for several months - it is a great comfort to me to see her so pleased at my having got a little friend to take care of me in my travels - I hope you will tell Miss Tate - but, dearest Lady Stuart, it was what you said that I have never forgotten, and it is you that I shall always think of, and thank with all my heart - wrote this morning under the seal ‘I do hope to hear from you soon, if it be only one line to tell me you are better, and have settled things more comfortable than you expected - Do not trouble yourself one instant about a frank - I shall be delighted to see a Norfolk postmark - I shall trouble Lord Stuart with a note to Lady Stuart de R- and a little note to dear Charlotte about the parcel from Paris - Ever, dearest Lady Stuart, very truly and affectionately yours A. Lister’ - general account of my journey to Lady Stuart de R- hoped for some common in Paris - perhaps she doubted my abilities - could not doubt how happy I should have been to do my best - ‘I had a little friend with me whose good care soon set me above Mr. Freeman’s medicines; and we had some delightful wanderings among the Savoy mountains - I do confess that my ‘bowels yearned’ towards Mt. Blanc; but he was a little surly; and the 2 Savoy and avocats who attempted his summit, and said, tho’ unbelieved by any, they reached it, were glad enough to get down again - they had no regular guides, only ½ a dozen peasants, two of whom had made the ascent before - and, had they been a few hours, would probably have been lost - we made what is called the grand tour of Mt. Blanc’ ......... crossed the great and little St. Bernard......... we had no gollis-work - the little Inns very fairly comfortable ‘except one in the village de Ferret where there were only 2 bedrooms for the widow and her 8 children, one man servant and 2 guides, our 2 selves, and 2 sick infants the poor woman had taken to muse, tout compris, at 6 francs each per month - we returned by the Savoy lakes and Chamberi - saw the pass of the Echelles, and the grande Chartreuse - spent 2 or 3 days at Lyons - tho’ many of the houses damaged or destroyed in April are already repaired or rebuilt, there are still too many traces of the émente - Several opulent manufactories have left the town, and set up their establishments elsewhere - there are 3 large ones just completed at Voiron now communicated with Echelles by a fine new road of 3 postes - there are several new roads finished and in progress - that by St. Etienne, opened 2 years ago (missing Lyons) saves 3 days journey to Marseilles’ - 2 or 3 days at St. Etienne and 2 or 3 at Clermont - ‘the view from the Puy de Dome is one of the most interesting and extraordinary I have ever seen - a vast assemble of cones of extinct volcanoes - a vast coulee (sea) of lava - but the heat was so excessive in walking up, and the air so cold at the top, I only staid about ½ an hour - Do tell the girls, they never saw such a dirty figure as I was on coming out of the fine silver mines (opened 2 or 3 years ago) near Pont de Gibaud - But the coal-mine of Firminy, near St. Etienne, astonished me most - it is exactly like a commons tone quarry (open to the day, and worked in the same way) but the rock is coal of excellent quality - it is only 3 years that is has been worked in this way, and is the only coal-mine known of the kind - the miners at the silver mine were chiefly Germans - Be the government what it may, I never saw so great an appearance of improvement and prosperity in the country - the écoles des mines have done an infinity of good to the mining interests of the country’ - dined with Lady CL- and the Berrys - and was delighted with my visit - all were in good spirits, and were very agreeable and kind - I had never seen so much of Lady Charlotte’ (Lindsay) ‘who says things so nicely, and whose manners are so interesting, she made quite an impression upon me - Miss Berry is really wonderful - thank you very much for giving me their address - I was quite glad to improve so nice an acquaintance - unexpected pleasure to see Lord Stuart - ‘what an enviable tour in Norway! I wish a [I] knew a little more about it - If I live, I mean to go there one of these days - my aunt, as to general health, is much the same as when I left her - but she suffers a martyrdom from rheumatic pains, and her medical men fear she cannot long survive the winter - I enclose a little note for Charlotte - Believe me, dear Lady Stuart, always very truly yours A. Lister’ - then wrote on ¼ sheet the following ‘Shibden Hall - Monday 15 October [September] 1834 - my dear Charlotte - I send you a very little note, the herald of a very little parcel, which Miss Berry was so good as promise to bring from Paris - I told Lady Stuart, it was for you - I always thought of giving you some small remembrance on your entrée into the great world - I wished it to be something useful, and only hope I have chosen well, and that you will like the watch for its own sake, and for mine - I hope you are all enjoying yourself, and looking quite rosy and well at Highcliffe - I should not know it again - if you still hunt for fossils, and care as much as ever for the collection, you can fancy how disappointed I was to find, on reaching here, that all my fine specimens from the Auvergne silver-mines, and many others that were packed in the carriage tool-box, were lost in London, throw away as lumber I suppose, by the coachmakers’ men, who thought anti attrition better worth - I often thought of you among the high alps of Savoy, and wished you were with me - what sketching for Louisa! give my love to her - I shall always feel very much interested for you both, and believe me, my dear Charlotte, your very sincere and affectionate friend A. Lister - my kind remembrances to Miss Hyriott’ - went down to breakfast at 11 ¼ and sent off the letter by George my letter to ‘Mrs. Lawton the Reverend M. Miller’s Scarborough’ - breakfast – Mr Parker sent the lease of ‘Lidgit’ to Mr Lampleugh Wickham Hird for A- to read over – she read it aloud to me – the game reserved as in my leases – only allowed to have 7 DW under plough – penalty £10 per DW –not to cut or prune timber – 34 DW not to underlet except with written leave – Rent £100, terms 10 years -Asleep ½ hour – at my desk at 1 5 wrote my note to C. Stuart and at 2 ½ had written so far of today, and had folded and sealed up in envelope my note - 4 pages of ½ sheet to ‘The Lady Stuart de Rothesay’ enclosing in the same my note to ‘the honourable Miss Stuart’ and enclosed these and my note to ‘the Honourable Lady Stuart Whitehall’ under cover to ‘Lord Stuart de Rothesay 3 Carlton house terrace London’ - sent the above letters at 7 pm by George - A- and I out at 2 ¾ to Brearley hill to meet Holt about getting water for John Bottomley and about sinking pit to enable me to look after Mr. Rawson - getting the water will cost about £16 to £20 sinking and driving at 3/. to 3/6 per yard - about 100 yards - ordered this job to be advertised next week for letting as also the pit sinking - H- thinks the pit will cost about 40/. per yard sinking about 100 yards deep to the lower bed - saw the place near the upper gateway just above Conery wood in the Park farm well field - with a small fire engine might get coal there for many years - easily roaded along the foot of Bairstow, out just below Whiskum cottage into the new bank to Halifax - pit to be oblong 8ft. x 5.4 .:. about not quite said SW. tonight 5sq. yards stuff will come out at each yard depth of sinking - 5x100 = 500 yards of stuff carting down to the foot of the wall opposite the house = about £20 - the water of dirt band (36 yards band) and fourscore yards band to be gathered up in sinking and turned the conery clough separately or not to the house - H- said the coal would sell at 8d at the pit’s mouth - and no turnpike to Hx would make a penny a load difference - R- sells at 9 1/2d in the town - we should sell at 9d - would average 5 ½ corves or loads per square yard - 20 loads or one score would sell for 13/4 at the pits mouth -

From Brearley hill A- met me at Whiskum cottage – thence down the old bank to Halifax to the Bowling foundry for fine-grates for north parlour north chamber and tent room – then to Miss Hebden’s – good account of Charlotte Booth – then to Whitley’s – brought home volume 3 8vo Lyell’s Geology and Busby’s Journal among the vineyards of Spain and Portugal - and pamphlet by John Travers on the Tea duties – then to Throp’s about acorns and settling Bairstow with them – home up the old bank at 6 55 – dinner at 6 – coffee – had Washington – nothing to be made of Mrs Machin about the sale of her 11 DW of coal – but W- told me he would call again on Saturday – A- and I sat talking and reading the newspaper George brought back this evening – with my aunt from 9 ¾ to 10 ¾ - wrote all but the 3 first lines of this page till 11 ½ pm at which hour F59 ½° in my study - very fine day - note from Mr. Wilkinson Heath to say the front pew in the north gallery nearest to the west gallery is at liberty rent 1 guinea a year.

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7-wonders · 6 years ago

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Ironically Alive

Summary: Now that you’ve recovered from your first meeting with your father-in-law, one question nags at your mind: what about the rest of Michael’s family?

Word Count: 3124

A/N: Mad Love part 8, woo! Hope you guys enjoy, if you do I’d love to hear your thoughts on it. Comments, likes, and reblogs are always appreciated.

Michael’s back to his awkward self for the rest of the weekend, but you can’t really blame him. How is a person supposed to act when their father kidnaps the subconscious of their spouse and attempts to scare them into submission? After your wonderful Friday with him, though, it’s disheartening to be back on opposite sides of a figurative brick wall. You spent most of the day yesterday in bed, reading a book to try and keep your mind off of your encounter with Satan. Although Michael stopped in periodically, he wasn’t nearly as attentive as he was the day before. Since you’re leaving the mansion in a matter of hours, you at least want to talk to him a little bit. Michael, you’ve noticed, has a habit of avoiding people or things when there’s a subject that he desperately doesn’t want to talk about.

A solitary knock on the office door is the only advance warning you provide before swinging open the door and waltzing in, a sarcastically cheerful “hi, Mikey!” falling from your lips. Michael tries not to react, but you can see the slight quirk of his lips as he rolls his eyes.

“I thought you were made aware that no one is allowed in my office?”

“Figured that didn’t apply to your wife,” you reply while taking a seat in the chair on the opposite side of the large oak desk.

“You believe that you’re exempt from all the rules of this household,” Michael points out.

“That’s because I am exempt.” You lay your head down on your arms, looking up at Michael while he works.

“Something’s on your mind.”

“You promised me that you wouldn’t use your magic!”

“I didn’t. Your eyes, however, always manage to betray you.” Shooting a quick glare at him, you can only hold a stern expression for a quick second before your lips twitch and you sigh.

“I was just...well, we need to talk about what happened on Friday.”

“What is there to talk about? I had assumed you asked all of your questions after it happened.”

“I’ve thought of some more.”

“Of course you have,” Michael chuckles, rolling his eyes. “Ask away, then.”

“When Satan was speaking to me, he mentioned your mother, but you’ve never mentioned her to me.” Michael stiffens at your words, slowly laying down his pen and looking up at you.

“I’ve never seen the need to mention her.”

“Why not?”

“Must I explain my reasoning to you?”

“I just think it’s a little unfair that you get to know every single detail about me, but then you get to pick and choose what you tell me about you.” You know not to press him when you’ve already made some valid points, so you wait in silence as he mulls over what you’ve said.

“My mother’s name was Vivien Harmon, she was a cellist and the wife of an adulterer. The Harmon family moved from Boston to Los Angeles, in the hopes that it would repair Vivien and Ben’s relationship. Unfortunately, that move would mark the beginning of the end, for they moved into the so-called ‘Murder House.”

“The house where those two nurses were murdered by that serial killer?”

“That and more. The house sits upon a Hellmouth, causing all of the spirits that die there to remain trapped as spirits. My father took advantage of a young, impressionable boy, possessing him and making him--” Michael’s voice breaks as he shakes his head, “--making him rape Vivien. Vivien, however, was already pregnant by Ben.”

“So...you have a twin? How is that even possible if you each have different fathers?”

“It’s incredibly rare in modern medicine, but it does happen. I overpowered him in the womb, basically starved him of nutrients and prevented him from ever being able to survive. A boy named Jeffrey, born stillborn mere minutes before I was born. The stress, the carnage that was my birth killed Vivien. That’s all I wish to say about the matter.”

“Michael,” you reach a hand out to touch his arm, but he jerks his arm away while wiping a stray tear from his face.

“You should be getting back home, (Y/N). Don’t you have an early class tomorrow?”

“I--yeah, I do.” Standing, you bounce awkwardly as you wait to see if Michael says anything else. “Uh, see you later?”

“Later. I’ll call you.” He’s short, in a way that he normally isn’t with you. Reaching the door, you turn around to look at him one last time. He’s facing away from you, staring out at the warm afternoon light while lost in his thoughts.

/////////////////////////

Curiosity is going to get you killed one day, but you’re hoping that day isn’t today. Maybe you should have left the conversation with Michael in his office, but it was all too easy to find the address for the Murder House, and even easier to pick the lock once evening fell and you could move under the cover of darkness. The entire time you were fiddling with the lock on the back door, you told yourself that you would leave if you couldn’t get it open; a sign that you were meant to leave the information as it was, and never speak of your trip to Michael again. But when the lock popped open after only two minutes of picking it, you took it as a sign that you needed to pursue this matter further.

The light of your phone flashlight illuminates your surroundings, and you’re shocked to see that it doesn’t look like the dusty interior of any horror movie house you’ve seen prior to this. It’s well-kept, every odd and end in its place and not a speck of dust in sight. You hesitantly flip the light switch next to you, the light suddenly flooding in from the overhead ceiling lamp that someone still works. You’re pretty sure you can even hear an air conditioner running, and you briefly wonder if a family does live here and if you’ve just accidentally committed breaking and entering. If you have, then it’s a family who doesn’t like to personalize their home at all. There’s no photographs up, no childish artwork hanging on the fridge, nothing besides the obsessive cleanliness to indicate that anyone lives here.

Trailing your fingers along the wall, you take your time as you meander through the house. Although you don’t want to, you find yourself imagining a younger Michael. Was he a cherubic blond boy, chasing after a toy ball down this long hallway? Did he sit atop the arm of the couch while watching the house get cleaned, little legs swinging in the air? Which bedroom belonged to him? Thinking of Michael like this humanizes him, in a way. He’s always been human to you, but he’s always seemed like this indomitable figure that you could never fully touch. Having these mental images of Michael as a gap-toothed child somehow makes him seem just like every other person that you’re friends with.

Oh god, are you friends with Michael now? You did kiss him, so this shouldn’t be too startling, but being friends with the man who had you kidnapped doesn’t sit too well. People are supposed to be friends with their spouses though, right? That’s a good start, then, that you’ve gone from despising him to actually considering him one of your friends.

“It’s rude to break into a locked house, even if it is abandoned,” a cool voice mutters behind you. Gasping, you spin around at the unexpected voice.

An older woman with pinned-back red curls and mismatched eyes, one brown and one cloudy blue, stands before you. She’s clutching a feather duster in her liver-spotted hands, a white maid’s collar selling the look that this is the maid of the house.

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t know that people lived here or else I wouldn’t have picked the lock!” You mentally curse upon realizing that you just admitted your guilt.

“Child, surely your mind isn’t so closed off to believe that.” The woman smiles, extending a hand for you to follow her. “Come, I can practically see your mind whirring with questions.”

“How do you--”

“Please, we could feel the Devil’s mark on your soul from the moment you slipped through the gates.” A clean southern accent accompanies the words that float down the winding staircase along with the woman in a flowing dress, blonde hair teased into a beehive and delicately balancing a glass of bourbon and a cigarette in one hand. “My dear, you look as if you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Funny,” you say dryly.

“Now, who are you and how did my grandson manage to dig his claws into such a pretty, intelligent girl?” She reaches a shaking hand out, clutching your chin in her grasp.

“You’re…?”

“Why, Constance Langdon, of course.” Although Michael had never told you about his grandmother, the dramatics that both favor would have been enough of a giveaway. “You do know what that boy is, don’t you?”

“Unfortunately.” When Constance quirks an eyebrow at you, you continue. “He had me kidnapped and forced me to marry him in some weird Satanic ritual. Now I’m his wife, which is super ironic because the institution of marriage is inherently tied into religion.” You laugh awkwardly, not really sure how else to explain your unconventional situation.

“Welcome to the ‘lives ruined by Michael’ club.” A teenager with shaggy blond hair wearing an ill-fitting green sweater appears in front of your eyes, Constance tightening her grip on you to keep you from falling down the stairs in surprise. “I’m Tate and I’ll be your tour guide today,” Tate snickers.

“Um, I’m (Y/N).”

“Could you let go of her, Ma? Your nails are going to pierce her skin any second now.” Your eyes widen when your mind connects the dots. This must be the man who was unwillingly conscripted into Michael’s conception. Before you can form a coherent thought in your brain, Tate grabs your arm and pulls you from his mother’s grasp and in the direction of a living room. “Why are you here? We don’t get much in terms of visitors here, and when we do they’re usually killed by the ghosts here.”

“That’s not comforting at all,” you blanch.

“None of us could kill you even if we wanted to, not with the Devil having laid protection on your soul.” At least there’s one upside to being married to Michael, then.

“I just want answers, I guess. I get that Michael’s, you know, Satan’s kid, but there’s still the whole nature versus nurture debate. Could it have been prevented? What was it like when he was growing up? Did he just live in a house with ghosts? Did Satan raise him? Where do the Satanists come into this equation?” Once you start asking questions, you can’t stop, the inquiries pouring out of you like word vomit.

“Whoa, slow down. Who said we were even going to answer your questions? I may not be able to kill you, but I can still make your time here extremely painful.”

“Fuck off, Tate, you don’t scare me after everything that I’ve seen,” you roll your eyes at his pathetic intimidation attempt.

“You’ve seen it too, haven’t you?” A woman with copper hair leans against the doorway, a sleeping baby in her arms.

“Seen what?”

“Satan,” her voice drops to a mere whisper, as if the very mention of his name will summon him to this house. You don’t need to answer her, the widening of your eyes giving her your reply. “At least I was able to give Michael some humanity, or else he wouldn’t have someone like you as his bride.”

“Vivien?” A sad smile appears on her face as she nods.

“What did you see that made you seek out a place like this for answers?” A crowd has gathered, with spirits that you haven’t yet met joining the few that you have.

“I--It was on Friday. Michael lets me have my freedom during the week, so long as I spend the weekend with him. I had decided to take a bath, and I must have dozed off. When I woke up, I was faced with Satan. He...taunted me, made fun of me and then berated me for not yet procreating with Michael. Then he tried to kill me. I guess I screamed loud enough to jolt myself back to consciousness, because when I woke up Michael was yanking me out of the bath.

“Michael has never told me anything about his family, and so I was surprised when Satan mentioned you, Vivien. He complained about the fact that you had managed to pass your overly caring heart to Michael. I tried to ask Michael about his family today, but he gave me the story of his birth and then told me to leave. I’ve never been the type of person to leave with unanswered questions, so I came here. Probably not the smartest decision I’ve ever made, but it's the one that I stuck with.”

“That boy…” Constance steps forward, taking a swig of bourbon and bringing a hand up to her throat, “is nothing but a monster. You’d do well to find a way out of this marriage that he’s forced you into.”

“I can’t. He told me that if I leave, or tell anyone, he’ll kill my entire family. I tried once, and he managed to figure out what I was doing even though I had encrypted my computer. I’m stuck, and I just need to know. I need to know that there’s some good left in him. If there is, maybe I can stop the end of the world from happening.”

Constance and Vivien share a long look, and proceed to tell you everything. The small animals and nannies that he killed, the rose bushes, the priest, Constance’s suicide, and Michael’s subsequent abandonment. It only gets worse from there; Ben’s attempts to “help,” Tate’s disownment, the lesbian couple that he incinerated, Ms. Mead and the Satanists, and Michael’s first sacrifice.

It’s horrifying to hear the two women describe it. Michael, impressionable mind still catching up to his body after aging ten years in a single night, being manipulated by the Satanists to let them bring a kidnapped young girl into the house. The macabre pomp and circumstance of the ritualistic slaying, in which Ms. Mead and two others plunged a knife into the virgin’s chest and ripped her heart out. They presented the organ to Michael on a figurative silver platter, the boy taking a hearty bite out of the mass of muscle and tissue with nary a moment’s hesitation. Vivien vividly describes the shadow of a horned beast appearing over Michael and unfurling its wings as he swallowed, sealing his fate and affirming his birthright. You’re ashamed that, after all you’ve seen, heard, and experienced over the past month or so, your reaction to the graphic description of Michael’s first sacrifice…

...is to throw up.

You sprint out of the house in a frenzy, barely making it past the gate before violently retching. Your mouth burns as your stomach expels everything it has in it, heaving repeatedly until you’re vomiting nothing but stomach acid. Your hair’s been pulled back from your face, and the hand rubbing your back is soothing until you realize that the ghosts are trapped on the property that you’ve just left. Wiping your mouth on the back of your hand, you shakily glance up to see Michael.

“I’ve got you,” he soothes, running a hand down your face.

“Michael? How’d you know I was here?” Michael smiles softly, shaking his head.

“When you looked back at me before you left my office, I knew you wouldn’t let the matter go. After I realized that I gave you the name of the house, it was just a race to get here to you.”

Michael’s expecting you to be furious at what you’ve learned from his family. He’s expecting you to lash out and fight him, calling him terrible names and threatening to end his life over all of the sins he’s gladly committed. When you envelop him in a hug, his body stiffens from the turn of events.

“Why...are you...hugging me?” He’s gotten more used to hugs since you came into his life, but it’s still something he’s not used to.

“I’m so sorry for all of the shit that you had to go through. You didn’t deserve any of it; it’s not your fault how you were born.”

“Shh, you don’t need to apologize.” Michael slowly wraps his arms around you, but it’s still awkward for him.

“But it’s not fair that you--”

“I’ve come to terms with how my childhood was, (Y/N).”

“You’re not mad at me.” It’s not a question; you’ve seen Michael angry before, and this isn’t it.

“No. It’s my own fault for laying the temptation at your feet. I do wish you would have listened to me, though. I would have told you the information you desired in time, in a way that wouldn’t have been so overwhelming for you.” You chuckle, grabbing the hand he extends to you and allowing him to pull you up. “Come on, let’s get you home.”

“My home,” you say adamantly, looking Michael in the eyes.

“Yes, your home. After all, cats are supposed to be the best cure for a person’s turmoiled thoughts, are they not?” You quietly laugh, nodding.

“She’ll be more pleased to see you than me.”

With his bride clutching his arm, Michael glances back at the house. He hadn’t expected to actually see the spirits, but of course the nosy ghosts are all crowded in the windows. There’s his mother, her auburn hair shining in the late-afternoon light. Tate and Violet hold each other protectively, as if Michael’s mere glance will cause them to burst into flames. Front and center, as always, stands Constance.

She watches him with wise eyes, the grandson that she thought she was saving by hiding his murderous tendencies. She takes a drag of her cigarette and holds it deep in her chest, smoke leaving her lungs in delicate tendrils. Constance has a warning expression on her face, silently imploring Michael to let you go before he does even more damage. His father’s plan of bringing his soulmate to him, it seems, is just another disappointment to add onto Constance’s list of reasons to detest Michael. And so the prodigal son, unwillingly dragged once again to the house of his birth, raises his middle finger to the elderly woman before turning his back on the family he once wanted desperately to belong to.

/////////////////////

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ewh111 · 5 years ago

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Annual List of Favorite Film Experiences of 2019

Happy New Year! All the best to you for a fabulous 2020 and new decade!

2019 was a busy year of traveling. Work took me back to China (three times), Japan, Korea, and first time visits to the Czech Republic and Australia.

I had the opportunity of a lifetime when I helped lead a group of Harvard-Westlake faculty members on a culture and food themed trip to China with James Beard Award-winning food writer/chef Fuchsia Dunlop. As a big fan of hers, I invited her to join us as our culinary tour guide and she accepted, leading us through three regions of China with distinct cuisines (Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Shanghai). Over ten days, she curated 19 meals with over 300 different courses! For more, go to my first annual food post: https://ewh111.tumblr.com/post/189972112494/2019-food-lists

And now, here are my favorite film experiences of the past year.

Cheers, Ed

The Best and The Favorite of the Year

Parasite

The less you know before viewing this metaphorical, fiercely dark, genre-bending comedy/horror/social satire of haves and have nots where everyone is arguably a parasite, the better. Korean filmmaker Boon Joon-ho creates a memorable, twisty, thought-provoking film experience with exquisite storytelling, stunning visuals, sudden tonal shifts, unexpected turns, and a terrific cast. Just take the journey and enjoy this masterful work that may be the best film of the year. Trailer: https://youtu.be/isOGD_7hNIY

Jojo Rabbit

Appealing to my affinity for the quirky, this one is my favorite film of 2019. Who knew that a story during the waning days of WWII about a 10 year old Hitler Youth, his imaginary friend Adolph Hitler, and his single mom who is hiding a Jewish girl in their attic would be so sweet and funny. While an absurdist witty satire on the surface, it’s really an anti-hate, coming-of-age story as we experience the world through the eyes of 10 year old Jojo as he confronts and reconciles “the other” he’s been taught to hate in the world around him. Delicately balancing whimsy and seriousness, Jojo Rabbit is a beautiful and soulful film thanks to a great cast, including a terrifically endearing Scarlett Johansson (while likely to garner more attention for Marriage Story, this is the more memorable character to me), the audacious Jewish-Polynesian director Taika Waititi as the sophomoric Hitler bestie, Sam Rockwell as an SS officer with a heart, and a wonderful Roman Griffin Davis in the title role. Trailer: https://youtu.be/tL4McUzXfFI

Racing Against Time

1917

Wow. Daring and bold filmmaking in one of the most realistic and visceral war film experiences since the opening scene of Saving Private Ryan. In a role that may be overlooked during awards season, George MacKay is a standout as one of the two soldiers sent on an impossible mission through No Man’s Land to deliver a message to prevent British forces from entering a massive German ambush. Oh, and via pure movie magic, director Sam Mendes and master cinematographer Roger Deakins tell this story in what seems like one continuous shot. I was totally drawn in by the Gallipoli-esque race against time, the real-time pacing of 24, and the immersive POV of a video game. The result is breath-taking as the camera dances around the soldiers, trenches, bunkers, and towns in a beautifully choreographed dance without distracting from the gripping storytelling. Trailer: https://youtu.be/gZjQROMAh_s

Ford v Ferrari

An exhilarating, high octane, crackling thrill ride. The story of two obsessively passionate crazies, ex-racer and car designer Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and British race car driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale), who join forces with American corporate titan Ford to defeat Ferrari at the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1966. It’s pure adrenaline that non-racing enthusiasts can enjoy because of the well-crafted story and performances. Trailer: https://youtu.be/I3h9Z89U9ZA

Unforgettably Creepy and Disturbing

Joker

Joaquin Phoenix disturbingly and completely transforms himself into the pathologically deranged, downtrodden, and delusional part-time clown/aspiring comic Arthur Fleck in this origin story of Batman’s arch nemesis. Joker is a deeply disturbing character study of how an emotionally fragile individual on the fringes of society gets pushed deeper and deeper into the downward spiral of insanity to the breaking point. Dark, edgy, and unsettling, Joker is not for everyone. But there’s no denying Phoenix’s brilliant, tour de force performance. (Unfortunately, my edginess was heightened in my screening by an audience member who was similarly laughing inappropriately like Phoenix’s character, which had me looking for the closest exit in the event of a disturbance). Trailer: https://youtu.be/zAGVQLHvwOY

In his sophomore directorial effort, Jordan Peele has gone beyond the horror and social commentary of Get Out, and into even deeper, more chilling existential territory. In Us, Peele has created an All-American family terrorized by a creepy scissor-wielding doppelgänger family and spirals into more terrifying and mysterious terrain with a fabulous dual performance by Lupita Nyong'o. Who is Us? Is Us them? I’ll leave the metaphorical debate for later. Trailer: https://youtu.be/hNCmb-4oXJA

**Midsommar deserves notable mention in the creepy category–a slow-burn, dark tale of a young American couple’s vacation in the remote Swedish hinterland at a once-in-lifetime summer festival that goes creepily and morbidly wrong. Trailer: https://youtu.be/1Vnghdsjmd0

Masterworks by Tarantino and Scorsese

Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood

Perhaps Quentin Tarantino’s most mature film, Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood beautifully captures in painstaking detail a specific moment in time: Hollywood, 1969. A passionate homage and love letter to Los Angeles and the Hollywood scene, Tarantino blends a concoction of history and fantasy (a la Inglourious Basterds) in a buddy movie with Leonardo DiCaprio as declining TV hero/star and an endearing scene-stealing Brad Pitt as his stalwart stunt double/best friend whose lives fatefully intersect with Sharon Tate and the Manson family. While at times meandering (it’s less plot and more a series of vignettes), it is also at times spellbinding (an on set encounter between DiCaprio’s character and a fellow 8 year old child actor; Margot Robbie’s Sharon Tate watching herself on screen inside Westwood’s Bruin Theater). As the title implies, this is a quintessential Tarantino fairy tale: funny, yet warm, and, of course, violent. Trailer: https://youtu.be/ELeMaP8EPAA

The Irishman

An epic, career-capping entry into Martin Scorsese’s mob-themed oeuve, The Irishman appropriately brings De Niro, Pacino and Pesci together in this elegaic saga, complete with de-aging technology to tell the story of mob hitman Frank Sheeran (De Niro) through multiple flashbacks. And for those of us old enough to remember, the story helps to answer the unsolved question, what happened to Teamster head Jimmy Hoffa. Trailer: https://youtu.be/RS3aHkkfuEI

Family Dramas

Marriage Story

Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver are top-notch in this raw, yet poignant, and ultimately life-affirming journey through the disintegration of a marriage and the logistical mechanics of the divorce process and custody fight seen from both sides as each struggles to reestablish priorities in their lives and redefine family. Trailer: https://youtu.be/BHi-a1n8t7M

The Farewell

We are told the film is “based on an actual lie” in the film’s opening titles; director Lulu Wang’s heartfelt, deeply personal, and charming film stars Awkwafina as a young woman whose grandmother (in China) has been diagnosed with terminal cancer but the entire family has decided to keep it a secret. Under the guise of a hastily planned family wedding, the family gathers to say goodbye to grandma. Capturing the uneasy tension between Chinese and American culture, questioning where one belongs and the role of family in our lives, Awkwafina shines in her first dramatic role, as does the rest of the supporting cast. Trailer: https://youtu.be/RofpAjqwMa8

Little Women

Director Greta Gerwig follows up Lady Bird with another achievement, giving the classic 19th century Louisa May Alcott period piece a thoroughly modern feel with an effervescent cast and 21st century non-chronological storytelling. Saoirse Ronan leads a fantastic cast. Trailer: https://youtu.be/AST2-4db4ic

Two Funny Smart Girls, Two Religious Guys, and Only One Baby Per Family, Please

Booksmart

More than just a female version of Superbad, Booksmart is an impressive directorial debut for Olivia Wilde with the fantastic duo of Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein (HW ‘11) as the “study hard” academic besties on a mission to “play hard” on the last night before graduation. Also memorable is the scene-stealing Billie Lourd (HW ‘10). This very funny and delightful coming-of-age pic stands out in the pantheon of teenage comedies not only for its quirky and smart tone, but for its inclusive and diverse three-dimensional characters, including LGBTQ+ and gender non-conforming teens whose sexuality don’t define who they are. Trailer: https://youtu.be/Uhd3lo_IWJc

The Two Popes

I didn’t expect a film that is essentially an extended conversation between two people would be so intriguing and gripping. The imagined conversation in 2012 involves two very different men, one the sitting pope who finds himself standing increasingly in the way of progress, and the other, his eventual successor looking to retire from an institution he is increasingly frustrated with. But with spot-on casting and terrific performances from Jonathan Pryce as the ABBA-humming future Pope Francis and Anthony Hopkins as the stoic, humorless intellect Pope Benedict XVI, The Two Popes is a joy to watch. Trailer: https://youtu.be/T5OhkFY1PQE

One Child Nation

This one’s a doc. From 1979 to 2015, China instituted the “One Child Policy” as a means of population control to stave off mass starvation. Documentarian Nanfu Wang, herself an exception to the policy and now a first-time mother, explores the enduring ripple effects of the policy that included forced abortions, sterilizations, abandonment of baby girls, and child trafficking. This powerful and devastating documentary looks at the multi-layered trauma–how it was carried out and the heartbreaking human and societal toll it has taken. Trailer: https://youtu.be/gMcJVoLwyD0

**Other documentaries to check out: Cold Case Hammarskjold, Where’s My Roy Cohn, The Biggest Little Farm, Leaving Neverland.

All Out Pure Fun Movie Experiences

Knives Out

An enthusiastic bundle of joy, Knives Out is Rian Johnson’s stellar, intricately crafted, Agatha Christie-like whodunit with a stellar cast who seem to be having as much fun as the audience. Trailer: https://youtu.be/qOg3AoRc4nI

Rocketman

Can’t help but compare this to Bohemian Rhapsody, but Rocketman is the superior and more entertaining musical biopic (using the term loosely). It’s bold, magical, and fantastical, as befits Elton John. Trailer: https://youtu.be/S3vO8E2e6G0

Other notables: The King, Avengers: Endgame, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Honey Boy, Yesterday, Velvet Buzzsaw.

In the queue: Pain & Glory; Uncut Gems; Bombshell; Richard Jewell, The Last Black Man In San Francisco.

Favorite Binge-worthy TV Shows

Dark, Succession, When They See Us, Chernobyl, Mindhunter, Barry, Veep, Sex Education, Silicon Valley, Stranger Things 3, Don’t F**k with Cats

Special Shout Out to Dark

With elements of the mysterious strangeness of Twin Peaks and Stranger Things (minus the humor and camp) and the intricate intertwined storytelling and compelling characters of The Wire, Dark is the story of four families who live in a tiny German town situated next to a nuclear power plant (add a little of Chernobyl) who are inextricably connected through some strange cosmic phenomenon. Oh, and throw in a big dose of time travel. Dark is incredibly compelling and addictive. It is hands down the most complex and thoughtful (i.e., sophisticated and makes sense) time travel-themed story I’ve seen. Do yourself a favor and resist Googling anything about the show to avoid spoiling the experience. Just watch. There are two seasons worth at Netflix. And one more on the way. Trailer: https://youtu.be/S3vO8E2e6G0

#favoritemovies2019 #favoritefilms2019 #submission

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secretlessonnews · 2 years ago

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Transcendental meditation mantras list

Transcendental meditation mantras list Dive into Serenity: A Step-by-Step Guide to Transcendental Meditation with Sol. Hello there, tranquility pioneers! My name is Sol, your friendly neighborhood Transcendental Meditation (TM) tour guide. "Am I here to meditate or potato-tate?" may be what's on your mind; rest assured I will lead you step by step through a transcendental meditation technique from the comfort of your own home (or potato field!) Here's the best part--it's totally free! No hidden costs or premium subscription. Let us embark on this adventure of transcendental meditation for free - like an opportunity for inner peace without hidden costs or fees. Step One: Mantra Magic Our journey towards mindfulness starts by selecting our own mantra--a sound or phrase which has no direct connection with what it represents for us personally, but which helps calm our minds nonetheless. Think of it like whispering "broccoli" into your cat's ear - they won't understand, yet it does wonders for calming their nerves! Step Two: Cozy Comfort B. Sit comfortably without contorting yourself like a contortionist act - meditation doesn't involve contortions! Simply find a comfortable spot where your spine remains upright - any simple chair will do. Step 3: Eye-Mellow* Now close your eyes gently. Don't force a stare-off with the sun; simply use this time as an opportunity to temporarily shut out outside stimuli and relax your mind. Step 4: Melody Your Mantra The next step in creating your mantra melody is silent repetition of it in your head - almost like singing it to yourself. This creates a personal melody inside of yourself which will allow you to relax more deeply. Step 5: **The Fade-Out**After several minutes have passed, let your mantra slowly fade out - not like an unexpected plot twist in a thriller film but as calmly and subtly as lullabies gradually dissolving into nothingness. Now is the time to simply appreciate and relish every second of life as the clock ticks by. Step 6: Ease OutAfter 20-25 minutes, gradually bring yourself back into reality. Don't view this process as an effortful race; treat it more like stretching after deep sleep and becoming aware of yourself and the world again at your own pace. For maximum benefits, practice transcendental meditation twice daily- ideally in the morning and evening- in order to reap maximum advantages from this technique. Don't worry- it can be done anywhere from a bustling train station in Manhattan to an idyllic potato field in Idaho! Approach this transcendental meditation technique without preconceived ideas or stress about whether or not you are doing it right. If your mind wanders off track, gently guide it back without judgment - embrace the journey and relish its benefits of serenity and tranquility! So what's holding you back? Begin your transcendental meditation journey today and discover its many advantages - inner peace and self-awareness are only some of the many rewards of transcendental meditation - from stress relief to increased creativity; all for just minutes of your time investment! So come meditate! ☟ ☟ ☟ Read the full article

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bluesfortheredj · 6 years ago

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Modern Romance.

A/N: Let me know if you’d like to see a second part to this. Unsure of whether to do one or not. Hope you enjoy!

I noticed her as soon as she stepped off of the Millennium bridge. Her face lit up at the sight of the Globe theatre and I smiled to myself as I recognised that look; it was one of wonder, and I was sure this was the first time she’d seen it. I stood as still as I could, not wanting her to notice me watching, and she diverted suddenly from her path when she noticed the view from across the river. Her phone appeared from her pocket and she snapped photos of St Paul’s before turning her attention back to the Globe. Another smile crossed her face as she slowly moved towards it, phone out and ready to take another picture, and she got her opportunity when the throngs of people thin out for a split second. She moved a little nearer to read the signs outside, then looked up at the crowd inside that were getting ready for their tour.

I’m assuming she’s on her own as no one has approached her and she hasn’t spoken to anyone yet, but I’m not entirely sure what I’m going to do with this information. There’s something about her that caught my eye, and I’m not one hundred percent clear on what it was, but I’m glad it did. She has black boots on with a small heel that clicks confidently along the pavement, black tights peek out from underneath a long striped dress which is covered by a black hoodie, and a black duster coat that she’s wrapped around herself. Earphones trail from her phone but only one of them stays in as the other hangs over her skull printed black and white scarf.

The only thing I can do right now is watch her to see what she does next. Her feet begin to walk away from the theatre, and she chooses to take the route that goes behind the end of the bridge rather than in front where all the crowds are. I can’t blame her, London is manic at the best of times, but then again it’s an advantage for me where I can blend in and go mostly unnoticed. Before I know what’s happening I’m walking through the mass of people in hopes that I get a glimpse of her again. Right on cue, she appears from behind the ramp and heads straight for the entrance to the Tate Modern.

This is it, if I let her walk in there without following, I’ll never see her again. Something inside me is telling me to go in as well, so I start to stride across the concrete as she disappears through the door. The bag checks work to my advantage after having slowed her down a little, and when I enter the doors she’s staring at the guide on the wall. There’s a low droning sound that’s echoing throughout the main part of the building, and she gives a small frown as she looks around, then spots the sign that explains it’s an installation and smiles to herself. When she looks up, her gaze almost falls straight upon me, and I feel myself redden at the close call.

This is crazy, it’s nearing stalker territory surely? But there’s something that’s pulling me towards her and I can’t stop it. If I talk to her, it won’t be creepy, right? Then at least I’m not following her around like some kind of weirdo. Shit, now she’s gone. I walk hurriedly towards the middle of the opening then spot her heading towards the stairs and I can’t help but follow again. She stops on the next floor and heads into one of the galleries, but this time I stay outside and choose a seat to sit on instead of walking in after her.

When she reappears there’s a tiny moment of hesitation, but then she walks confidently towards the escalator, and I jump up out of my seat to walk towards her. She’s walking quicker than before, almost as if to a beat that she’s listening to through that one earphone that still sits inside her ear. Sure enough when I get closer to her I can hear the oh so familiar beat of another one bites the dust, and I know I have to say something before she walks past. This is a sign, I know it, it’s too much of a coincidence not to be.

“Queen,” I smile, pointing to my ear to signal her music playing. She stops in her tracks as I step almost in her path, and she takes her one earphone out with an embarrassed smile.

“Sorry, bit loud isn’t it?” she apologises, and I shake my head furiously.

“No, not at all. Couldn’t blast it around this place instead of the constant hum, could you?” I grin, a little too wide maybe.

“If only,” she chuckles, and she’s perfect. The definition of an English rose with her fair skin, natural coloured hair and the slightest hint of a blush on her pale cheeks. Her lips are small yet plump, and her smile lights up her face. The only hint of make up on her is a thin layer of mascara that accentuates her already long eyelashes, and I try not to melt at the sight of her.

“Where are you heading next?” I ask, desperately wanting to make this moment last forever.

“I’m drifting,” she smiles, “no real plan.”

“Are you, uh,” I pause as I almost bottle it, “are you drifting on your own?”

“I am,” she nods, and I definitely smile too widely this time.

“Would you mind if I drifted with you?” I ask, and she briefly averts her gaze as she thinks it over. It was a stupid question, she’s got some strange man coming up to her in an art gallery and asking if he can join her as she wanders aimlessly. She probably came here today to get away from reality for a while and enjoy some alone time, and here I am ruining it.

“I wouldn’t mind at all,” she replies after what seems like minutes. She takes out her one earphone, unhooks the lead from her scarf and unplugs them from her phone before putting them away in her bag.

“Were you listening to The Game?” I question, trying to make some sort of conversation.

“You know your Queen,” she chuckles, and boy, do I know Queen, “it’s just a playlist.”

“Very good choice of song then!”

“Thanks,” she blushes, and oh my goodness, that blush on her cheeks is like a work of art itself.

“Shall we go up?” I suggest as I point towards the escalator. She nods so I let her lead the way, then we get onto the level that connects to the other building and we walk across the bridge. There’s another gallery to the left, so we automatically stroll into it in silence, and I watch her face begin to glow as she realises it’s all about pop art.

“I take it this was a good room to walk into?” I smile, and my face will surely start to hurt soon if I keep grinning like a fool.

“Very much so,” she beams, “the colours are so vibrant, it’s impossible to be unhappy when you look this type of art.”

I take a quick look around the room and agree, but my eyes soon settle back on her, and that’s where I want them to stay for the rest of the day.

“What do you think of this?” she asks, nodding towards the wall, and when I look at what she’s smiling at, a drawing of what appears to be three backsides greets me.

“It’s, um… Well the use of eggs is fantastic,” I laugh, and she gives me a smirk before reading the small description next to it.

“Spoiler alert,” she starts, then side steps over to me and bumps my arm in the process, “the eggs are indeed meant to represent testicles.”

She stays against my arm as I grin down at her, then she walks off to the next painting, and I’m left stunned. As if her beauty wasn’t enough, she has a wicked sense of humour as well. Bloody hell, just marry me already. Did I just think that? I don’t even know her name. Her name!

“So… I just realised I’ve been extremely rude and haven’t even asked your name...” I say as I catch up to her and she turns towards me.

“(Y/N),” she grins, “and you are?”

“Gwilym.”

“It’s very nice to meet you, Gwilym.”

“And you too, (Y/N).”

We continue around the room where we put on posh voices and softly whisper amongst ourselves as we give our very best art critic impressions, and I wish I could frame this moment myself so it could hang on the walls here, because it’s art; it’s beautiful and intricate, and something only we would understand.

“Where now?” she asks as we exit this section with our arms brushing against one another as we walk.

“Have you been to the viewing platform before?”

“I’ve never actually been here before,” she admits with an embarrassed look.

“Then you need to go to the viewing level,” I smile, and boldly bend my elbow for her to link her arm through mine. Without hesitation her hand moves through the gap, and I have to remind myself that I’ve done enough grinning today already. I walk her towards the lift and by some absolute miracle we’re the only ones going up to the tenth level at that time. She gasps as we step out and walks straight over to the window, which leaves me a little deflated from the sudden loss of contact, but she soon beckons me over with a huge smile gracing her perfect little lips.

“Come on,” I chuckle as she lets out a light ‘wow’. I hold my hand out and she grips it tightly as I lead her out of the glass doors and into the cold air outside.

“Oh my…” she trails off, pulling her coat together with her free hand as the wind blows harshly around us.

“Yeah,” I nod, “beautiful isn’t it?”

“So beautiful. Even on an overcast day like today,” she agrees, then squeezes my hand when we near the edge.

“Are you okay with heights?” I ask, watching her face carefully as she gulps before answering.

“As long as I don’t go too near the edge,” she replies, trying to focus on the view. I step back then tug on her hand to join me, and her body visibly relaxes, so I slip my hand out of hers and wrap my arm around her shoulders instead.

“It’s all good, we can stay back here,” I reassure, and she leans into my body. We take the walk around the outside slowly, stopping so she can take photos of the view from every angle, and she never leaves my side, much to my absolute delight. Can I frame this moment, too? This is one I’d like to look at over and over again as well. When we get back inside we’re both a little wind swept, and I suggest a hot cup of tea, so I leave (Y/N) sitting at a table by the window while I get the drinks. She looks up at me when I return, and starts to laugh a little.

“What?” I smile as I place the cups on the table.

“Stay right there,” she replies as she gets her phone out and snaps a photo, “now you can sit.”

She turns the phone towards me so I can see what made her smile, and I chuckle as I look at the photo of my face next to the large sign along the top of the lifts that reads ‘everything is going to be alright’.

“Art!” (Y/N) announces, “a beautiful piece of art. We should print this and stick it up somewhere to see if they notice.”

“They’d notice that,” I laugh, “however, if it were you standing here instead of me, then it would certainly be considered art, and I’d come and see it every day.”

That was too much, way too much. She’s going to run away from the weirdo now. I brace myself for her swift exit, but all she does is smile up at me, unsure of how to react. Please say someone’s said something like this to her before. How could they not? I take my seat opposite her and wonder whether to broach the subject of seeing each other again.

@painthatiusedto @winnielinleigh @queenslandlover-93 @excellentbecca @ametaphorbrian @peachllobotomy @lovemarvelousfics

#gwilym lee x reader #gwilym lee #gwilym lee fanfic #gwilym lee imagine #gwilym lee fluff

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londontravelblog-blog · 5 years ago

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A Very first-Timer's Have to-See Guideline to London

With a lot more and more company conferences and gatherings set in London, convention hotels are normally loaded with individuals finding the town for the 1st time. If you're a person of them, and will need a speedy manual of what to do and where by to go in your spare time, this is a fast record of the ought to-see, must-do points of interest that a single seriously should not pass up. Buckingham Palace Tours If going to London to visit the Queen has been on major of your intellect since preschool times, here's your likelihood! Or, at minimum, in which she life, stays and functions- the Palace is only open for tours when she is absent on her annual visit to Scotland. If your conference is established for July, August and September, you can get time out from the really serious discussions inside of individuals London meeting motels and pop more than to the most iconic royal buildings in the planet. The home of Her Majesty, The Queen is one particular of the past remaining performing royal palaces in the globe and is located at the coronary heart of the metropolis. The Bridge Encounter "London Bridge is slipping down..." No, not truly. It is, even so, the website of one of the most entertaining points of interest you can knowledge absent from these London meeting inns, set within the arches of the bridge you have beforehand read (a good deal!) of in that nursery rhyme. With are living actors, amazing special results and animations, as properly as an engrossing storyline, it truly is a wonderful interactive experience that delivers you back again in time! The Tower and The Tower Bridge Exhibition If your pursuits lie in stories of historic drama, you can expect to want to acquire time absent from perform and go to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Continue to a person of the most well-liked sights in the town, a go to to the Tower finish with Beefeaters, the Crown Jewels and the Royal Armouries should not be missed. The Tower Bridge walkways, on the other hand, not only supply glimpses of historical past, but fantastic photo possibilities with the scenic sights from the large walkways. You would certainly like to obtain additional facts regarding London click here kindly. Thames River Cruise If you would like to see (and acquire images of) lots of legendary landmarks this kind of as Huge Ben, Homes of Parliament, Canary Wharf, the website of the Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the retired struggle-cruiser - HMS Belfast, St Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's World and the Tate Modern-day and many additional in one fell swoop, just one comforting but attraction-abundant journey weaving via the coronary heart of the metropolis on a Thames River Cruise genuinely is the ideal way to do it. On your working day off from your meetings in those people London meeting motels, guide a journey in one particular of the cozy all-temperature boats that acquire off from Westminster Pier. You can expect to soon discover why this cruise always can make it to the top rated of any listing of will have to-see points of interest in London. To know more about London visit at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Bridge

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fubarexpo · 6 years ago

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/’fu:bar/ 2018

Select:

Exhibition

Performances

Lectures

Workshops

SAT Oct 6th

8pm – /’fu:bar/ 2018 EXPO & FESTIVAL OPENING @ Gallery Siva [AKC Medika, Pierottijeva 11, Zagreb]

8pm – Sabato Visconti [US] – #Glitchbooth [interactive installation @ Siva]

9pm – Lovely Insomnia [HU] – Live Set/DJ Set [performance @ Siva]

SUN Oct 7th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

7pm – Ramiro Polla [BE] – FFglitch [lecture @ Siva]

8pm-10pm – Mark Klink aka srcXor [US] – 3d glitching [teleworkshop @ hacklab01]

MON Oct 8th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

2pm-5pm – Holographic_thought_process [FR] – Video Dirty Mixer [workshop @ hacklab01]

6pm – Nikša Gligo [HR] – Can glitch music be music at all? [lecture @ Siva]

8pm – Magno Caliman [NL] – screenBashing [performance @ Siva]

TUE Oct 9th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

2pm – Random Pixel Order [FR] – The Archive [open studio @ Siva]

6pm – Ingeborg Fülepp [HR] – The history of artistic usage of errors in film, video and digital techniques [lecture @ Siva]

8pm – FRGMNT [DE] – SSB - Sequenced Noise Beauty [performance @ Siva]

WED Oct 10th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

2pm-5pm – FRGMNT [DE] – SNU noise machine [workshop @ hacklab01]

6pm – Magno Caliman [NL] – Error making and "not-knowing": some particularities of the relation between artists and programming languages [lecture @ Siva]

8pm – Paul Vivien [FR] – 99% [performance @ Siva]

THU Oct 11th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

6pm – ROUND TABLE @ Siva

8pm – Nada Hasan [EG] – Experimental Desires [safe passage] [performance @ Siva]

FRI Oct 12th

6pm-10pm – Exhibition @ Siva

6pm – GUIDED EXHIBITION TOUR @ Siva

8pm – Tabache & Lady oN [IT] – cHroma flux [performance @ Siva]

9pm – “Ondes noires” screening & FESTIVAL CLOSING @ Siva

Sabato Visconti [US] – #Glitchbooth SAT Oct 6th – 8pm [interactive installation @ Siva]

#Glitchbooth> is a live interactive video installation where participants have their best selves captured in 1-to-2 minute video portraits. The video portraits are glitched using a corrupted DivX encoder and processed for live screening so that participants can see their glitch selves. Modeled after the photo booths found in weddings and events, #Glitchbooth considers "Selfie Culture" as a social practice that is conditioned by the structures of digital technologies and distribution channels.

Sabato Visconti — a Brazilian-born photographer and new media artist based in Western Massachusetts. He was born in São Paulo, grew up in Miami, and studied Political Science at Amherst College. Sabato’s work seeks to reconfigure traditional understandings of photography for the post-internet era, where photographic and cinematic practices become absorbed by digital processes, hybridized media, online networks, and machine intelligence. His work captures the subject in the face of ecological turbulence driven by the dysfunctions of vast impersonal systems. Sabato began experimenting with glitch processes in 2011 with the help of a defective memory card that randomly wrote zeroes on JPEG files. Since then, his work with glitch and digital media has been awarded the ArtSlant Prize IX and has been shown in places like Tate Britain, ICA Boston, SPRING/BREAK Art Show in New York City, LACDA, the FILE Festival in São Paulo, as well as galleries throughout the world. His work has also been published in TIME Magazine, WIRED, The New York Times, AI-AP’s "Latin American Fotografia 4" Anthology, and in Photographer’s Forum annual "Best of Photography" books for eight straight years. sabatobox.com

Lovely Insomnia [HU] SAT Oct 6th – 9pm – Live Set/DJ Set [performance @ Siva]

Gábor Hufnágel — a Hungarian electronic music composer/producer. He’s currently studying electronic music and digital arts at University of Pécs. He describes his music as a fusion of polyrhythms, rich textures and field-recordings. His process often involves algorithmic techniques and aleatoric elements.

During his studies he was influenced by the works of the 20th century electroacoustic composers but he always felt the contemporary experimental music scene closer to him. His upcoming debut album (from which he will play a live set at /’fu:bar/) would like to explore the relation of these two and contribute to abolish the boundaries, elitism and controversy which still surrounds these topics. His works are also heavily emotion-centered, dynamic in terms of tempo as he also tries to unfold the possibilities of contrasts in music.

Ramiro Polla [BE] – FFglitch SUN Oct 7th – 7pm – [lecture @ Siva]

FFglitch is a precision multimedia editing tool based on FFmpeg. When you glitch a file using a hex editor, it's like getting a tattoo with a radioactive axe. You might get some cool results, but you have very high chances of dying from blunt trauma or some cancerous genetic mutation. FFglitch, on the other hand, is more like genetic engineering. You manipulate your genes to naturally grow your tattoo. FFglitch produces valid bitstream, so Facebook or YouTube won't choke on your files. It is so precise it can barely be considered glitching at all...

Ramiro Polla — likes hacking things. He was an FFmpeg developer for 5 years, but now he got better... ffglitch.org

Mark Klink aka srcXor [US] – 3d glitching SUN Oct 7th – 8pm-10pm – [teleworkshop @ hacklab01]

Demonstrating methods for glitching .obj files, using text editors and spreadsheets. Mark will also discuss the standard triangle and edgeloop patterns that are used to form most 3d models and then demonstrate remeshing techniques which can ultimately produce more interesting glitches. If time is available, we’ll discuss other 3d file formats and ways they might be glitched.

Mark Klink — has been and done many things: swept floors, worked in a factory, been an athlete, a minor government official, a lifeguard, a computer programmer, and a traditional print maker. For twenty years he taught children and other educators how to use computers. But the thing he likes best (beside family) is making curious pictures. srcxor.org

Holographic_thought_process [FR] – Video Dirty Mixer MON Oct 8th – 2pm-5pm – [workshop @ hacklab01]

Building of a video dirty mixer, which "mixes" two analog video sources the bad way, resulting in a glitched output. A good case study to talk about composite sync signal and how messing with it can yield wonderful results.

Bastien Lavaud — imagines and creates electronics devices for arts. Audio, video and DIY enthusiast, he shares his creations on his website by providing information on how to build them, and makes demonstration of it in the realisation of video clips/VJing under the alias Holographic Thought Process. syntonie.fr

Nikša Gligo [HR] – Can glitch music be music at all? MON Oct 8th – 6pm – [lecture @ Siva]

The answer to this question depends on what we consider music. Looking back in history we find the expressions like musica mundana, musica humana, and musica instrumentalis. But the meaning of musica there is equal to harmonia, i.e. accord and has nothing to do with the narrower meaning of harmony in the tonal theories. My aim here is to point out that glitch music belongs to all these kinds of music which do not imply traditional, constant determinants of music as art. Glitch music belongs to the same group as "furniture music" (Erik Satie), "paper music" (Josef A. Riedl), "noise music" (Italian futurists), "prose music"/"music to read" (Dieter Schnebel), "eye music" (Luciano Berio), "son organisé" (Edgard Varèse), "organization of sounds" (John Cage), "sound art"... If we want to avoid "sound art" as something that doesn’t belong to music in the most general sense, then we are obliged to think about music in plural ("musics"). Glitch music would then be just one of them with its own theory, aesthetics and meaning.

Nikša Gligo — born in Split in 1946. Croatian musicologist. He graduated in English and comparative literature from Zagreb University (1969) and in musicology from Ljubljana University (1973). He later studied with Koraljka Kos at Zagreb University (MA 1981) and with Andrej Rijavec at Ljubljana University, gaining the PhD in 1984 with a dissertation on problems of new music. He was awarded scholarships to study at the universities of Cologne, Berlin (with Carl Dahlhaus and Rudolf Stephan) and Freiburg (with Hans Heinrich Eggebrecht). He has taught at the Zagreb Academy of Music since 1986. He is the ordinary member of the Croatian Academy of Arts and Sciences and of Academia Europaea in London. Gligo is concerned with the aesthetics, semiotics and terminology of 20th-century music and the use of computers in musicology. His project on the standardization of 20th-century Croatian music terminology resulted in his book Pojmovni vodič kroz glazbu 20. stoljeća, which is relevant to both musicology and linguistics, and for which he received the Croatian National Award in the Humanities.

Magno Caliman [NL] – screenBashing MON Oct 8th – 8pm – [performance @ Siva]

screenBashing is a live coding piece, where audio and visual materials are programmed in real time during its performance. It utilises SuperCollider (a sound oriented programming language) for it's sound components, and C (a general purpose programming language) for it's visual elements. By using the very basic functionality, present in pretty much all programming languages, of printing characters on the screen back to the user, the visuals are created by printing characters such as backslashes and underlines in rapid succession, and at the same time freezing the whole system several times per second, creating the illusion of animated motion; something neither C nor the printing function were originally intended to do. (...) After a certain threshold, the system becomes erratic, up to a point where it is no longer possible neither to gain control, nor to foresee the end of the performance, which happens at the onset of the machine processor capability, when it indubitably fails and crashes, or there is no alternative but to force shut both the visual and audio generators. The current version of the performance, to be played at fu:bar, adds a new layer of error, with the use of a laptop not connected to a power outlet. The amount of charge left in the battery at the beginning of the performance is chosen in order to determine the duration of the piece, which ends with the involuntary shut down of the machine.

Magno Caliman — originally trained as a classical composer at the conservatory, but with a background as a hardcore / death metal guitarist, now present himself as a sound artist and multimedia performer, with a focus on the intersection between art and technology. In particular, two specific practices have guided almost entirely the processes in his works for the last few years: the construction, modification and manipulation of electronic circuits; and the embracing of programming languages as places for poetical speculation. vimeo.com/magnocaliman

Random Pixel Order [FR] – The Archive TUE Oct 9th. – 2pm – [open studio @ Siva]

Random Pixel Order is a project started in 2015 by Clara R/ and Guillaume Cartis - a crossover collective between IT and micro-edition. The project aims to bring the two closer and comprehend how they can mutually develop. Torn between glitch / dev / analog hacking on the one hand and illustrations / graphic novel / zine on the other, the collective choses to do both. The Archive is a digital art zine collection, every publication with its little background story, a particular technique used (sometimes multiple). The collection is open to digital art in general and holds a multitude of techniques - glitch (sonification, 3D glitches, pixel sorting,...), creative coding, web found images, bitmap and MS Paint drawings, scanner movement, digital collage... Different print techniques are also used - some are fully digital prints, some are screenprint or riso, others mix printing techniques. The entire collection of 50 zines will be presented at /’fu:bar/ 2018. Anyone involved with the festival is invited to participate to author a new zine on the spot.

Clara R/ — founded RandomPixelOrder in 2015 with Guillaume Cartis while she was an undergraduate student in mathematics and computer science in Bordeaux, France. Seeing that much code everyday and being fascinated by mathematical functions, she couldn't keep herself from trying to apply those new knowledges to something visual and fun. She experimented on different techniques along the time, going from classic 2D glitch and datamoshing at the very beginning to generative coding and 3D glitch. During this few years, Clara has been implicated on creating projects that build the bridge between zines and computer. Today, as the collective is exploring new physical supports, Clara is opening herself to more interactive techniques as Arduino and video game making. Now she continues her master degree in graphic computer science, robotic and video game while making posters and fanzines. Guillaume Cartis — after a few self-published zines, founded RandomPixelOrder in 2015 with Clara Rigaud aiming to create a bridge between digital and zine making. Exploring different glitch art techniques, he introduced himself to 3D, video editing and film making. In 2016 he joined Disparate, an associative zine store, where he works on Bordeaux Zinefest organisation and workshops. During those years he started to get into risography, screen printing, scenography and awkward electronic music. facebook.com/randompixelorder/

Ingeborg Fülepp [HR] – The history of artistic usage of errors in film, video and digital techniques TUE Oct 9th – 6pm – [lecture @ Siva]

The twentieth century and the beginning of the twenty-first can be labeled as a century of media art. Not only filmmakers, but also painters, sculptors, graphic artists, architects, stage designers and many others have been experimenting with media technologies since its very beginning. This lecture will present a brief historical review of the use of media technology imperfections as an artistic expression. By using the example of Media in Motion Berlin-Zagreb GbR (Ingeborg Fülepp and Heiko Daxl, 1990 to 2012) video production, the lecture will present a multiplicity of artistic image editing approaches, which were realized by a symbiosis of analogue film, video and digital errors in specific video works. At the end of the lecture, visitors will be able to see a selection of the best works of Media in Motion art production.

Ingeborg Fülepp — Born in Zagreb, lives and works in Rijeka, Zagreb and Berlin. Studied film editing (at the Academy for Theatre, Film and Television in Zagreb; today Academy of Dramatic Art - ADU) and post graduate studies, film, video and interactive media at Harvard University (Ed.M) and at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Media Lab. Taught film editing at the Academy of Dramatic Art (ADU), Zagreb in 1978 - 1993. Lectures in USA, Great Britain, Netherlands, Austria and Germany since 1983, as well as at the New Media Department at the Academy of Applied Arts (APURI, Rijeka) since 2013, where she founded, and leads the Center for Innovative Media CIM since 2017. She’s an active participant of many international scientific gatherings, exhibitions and festivals, and participates in several EU projects as an associate or a jury member. Worked as a film and video editor on many productions. Received a multitude of scholarships and awards as an independent artist. Own artistic practice involves film, interactive multimedia projects, video art and video installations, of which some were shown in the New National Gallery in Berlin, Museum of Contemporary Art (MSU) in Zagreb, Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMSU) in Rijeka, as well as in many private and national galleries around the world. As a curator, an art director and a media art event organizer - she has ran a non-profit Media in Motion GbR, Berlin-Zagreb with Heiko Daxl, and has organized numerous international exhibitions and gatherings. fuelepp.com

FRGMNT [DE] – SSB - Sequenced Noise Beauty TUE Oct 9th – 8pm – [performance @ Siva]

The performance is a ~30 minutes live improvisation with advanced self made electronics. This involves the SNU (Special Noise Unit, FM-synth), sequencers, ring modulators and unique ultrasonic instruments (transmitters & "bat ears"). The main Units (SNU & sequencer I put under open license & distribute docu after the concert).

Jo FRGMNT Grys — born 1963 in Essen/Germany. Studied chemistry, philosophy, mineralogy etc @ the Justus-Liebig-University of Gießen then more & more turned towards arts using scientifically influenced thinking to investigate formation of structure from noise & order, from error & law and feedback as his main artistic themes. Grys is working with video-snow, electronics, computers, body & brain. Performed with noisiV (self-made electronics and video manipulations), TOB (transmitters and self-made electronics) as FRGMNT (structured noise & DIY ultrasonics) since 2010 and 2VM (VJ team) since 2002. Grys also makes electronic installations & gives workshops since 2004. Among other festivals he has taken part in V2´s DEAF NL, Piksel NO, Pixelache FI, Art Trail IE, Dorkbot CH, CTM DE. Works as an artist & inventor of machines. In recent years he also presents his computer graphics work to the public. frgmnt.org

FRGMNT [DE] – SNU noise machine WED Oct 10th – 2pm-5pm – [workshop @ hacklab01]

In this workshop, participants will be shown how to build the SNU (Special Noise Unit), an experimental sound circuit which uses illegal states falling between 1 and 0, and drives the digital chip it uses into an in-between world of uncertainty, resulting in complexity and uncontrollable behaviour, but also a playable instrument. Bio:

Magno Caliman [NL] – Error making and "not-knowing": some particularities of the relation between artists and programming languages WED Oct 10th – 6pm – [lecture @ Siva]

Computer programmers working in non-artistic applications and artists using programming languages to support an artistic practice might seem, at first, to be making use of the same tools (computational devices), and therefore can be thought of having similar practices. In this lecture we will draw parallels between the modes of operation of this two use cases. Specifically, we will comment on how artists are in a position not conceivable to the professional programmer: one where error making, trial-and-error, and "not knowing" some of the underling technical aspects of the practice are not only expected, but sometimes necessary in both the day-to-day experimental practice, as well as in the learning of those computational tools.

Magno Caliman — originally trained as a classical composer at the conservatory, but with a background as a hardcore / death metal guitarist, I now present myself as a sound artist and multimedia performer, with a focus on the intersection between art and technology. In particular, two specific practices have guided almost entirely the processes in my works for a few years now: the construction, modification and manipulation of electronic circuits; and the embracing of programming languages as places for poetical speculation. vimeo.com/magnocaliman/

Paul Vivien [FR] – 99% WED Oct 10th – 8pm – [performance @ Siva]

Loading… Loading… a transfer, a life, a movie, everything needs a time to prepare itself before it’s ready, before it becomes perceptible and pleasant. And when it’s ready, hurray! We can consume it. Why do we need it to be ready? Why don’t we prefer the things which are still in progress? A premature baby, an immature fruit or the current moment of my life with the evolving cells of my body? The last percent is missing, just enough to make you feel uncomfortable about this loading which will never end, with this file and my life you will never successfully download.

Paul Vivien — a new media artist who creates installations and performances. Experimenting with lights, generative custom software, video and sound, each project is an opportunity to discover a new expression way. Thanks to new technologies, he tries to make the virtual boundaries tangible, to augment the experience we could have of the real, accompanied by technology as invisible as possible. The artistic universe of Paul Vivien is hosted by a research about digital forms of life, a theme merging the notions of singularity, artificial intelligence, science fiction and nature. Based in Paris, Paul does talks and workshops at ENSAAMA, ECV and EPSAA art schools. In parallel of his solo projects, he participates to OYÉ visual art label production support, kaleidos studio art and design researches, exhibitions curation, and Omicron Persei 8 live AV. paulvivien.fr

ROUND TABLE THU Oct 11th – 6pm @ Gallery Siva

— on the current state of reinterpretative new media, its (role)models, changes, its influences, in regard to its artistic and technical ethos and praxis. The talk aims to discuss and contextualize diverse glitch-based critical new media (& appropriation) practices, in the company of /’fu:bar/ 2018 guest artists.

Nada Hasan [EG] – Experimental Desires [safe passage] THU Oct 11th – 8pm – [performance @ Siva]

A performance of reading texts and verbatim poems, installations of glitched video and live audio-visuals; an onsite experiment of a woman and her alter egos as she seeks to become the super human. The piece involves the ambivalent contradictions of female/male, weak/strong and white/black as they reside within a single body navigating hostile geographies. The project will explore the emotional, mental and physical aspects of becoming the perfect human through a mind trip and a process of being exposed to an archive of the most tangible realities and feelings, desires and traumas.

Nada Hasan — a Cairo based multidisciplinary artist from Southern Egypt. Her special focus is in video and media arts but her artistic practices vary between illustration, graphic design, performance, theater and storytelling. BA degree holder from faculty of Languages, Russian language and literature department and studied filmmaking at the Cairo Jesuit Cinema School by the year 2010. Since then she developed her skills in film and video art work by self teaching, exploring and experimenting new and various forms of creating moving image. Her work focuses on the emotional package of a body as a commodified being; making the struggles of bodies visible, emotions resistant to modern society persecution, while emphasizing the experience of oppression and our survival performances in functioning within privilege imbalances in connection to the quadrilogy of Race, Gender, Sexuality and Power. Her video and media art practice is curious to transcend the limitations of classical filmmaking and explore contemporary new media practices and its broad possibilities to create an alternative relation between the artist and spectator while constructing unconventional visual, image and motion driven narratives.  vimeo.com/user5161708

GUIDED EXHIBITION TOUR FRI Oct 12th – 6pm @ Gallery Siva

(hrvatski ~45’ | english~45’) Inquiries contact: [email protected]

Tabache & Lady oN [IT] – cHroma flux FRI Oct 12th – 8pm – [performance @ Siva]

"cHroma flux" explores a process of metamorphosis in which cells of colour and sound expand in order to create new forms. Thanks to technological devices, colour pixels and acoustic music mutate and distribute themselves throughout space giving life to a "technological landscape". The visuals are generated by live manipulation of paintings that have been transferred onto acetate. The resulting prints are positioned onto TV screens by means of feedback generated by webcams and this process triggers a series of transformations of the coloured pixels. The visual flow of colour is managed and produced thanks to an analogue video mixer. The result is a technological animation of colour as if under a microscope. It becomes a kind of digital mantra that responds to itself, reproducing and moving outwards to take over a new space. The audio has been developed from synth sources and classical music sampling. The acoustic samples have been literally deformed by digital and analogical technology, so that they reach the listener as naked sound that has been completely transformed from its original grammatical, cerebral and human nature as musical language. In "cHroma flux", sound and image influence each other in a synaesthetic vision that has been achieved not by machinery but by the physical gesture of a performance coordinated by the performer’s reciprocal listening and looking.

Tabache — starts his journey in 2004 with "Problems with my Mind", an electro experimental punk band with influences from bands like Suicide and subsequently flow into House, Techno, IDM. Publishing two records, "Album" (2005) and "Stato di Tensione"(2007). After moving to Bologna, he started his first solo project, Tabache, specifically devoted to a live and sensorial experience, with strong influences from Techno and Ambient. His new life injected him a new flow of creativity, which brought Francesco to publish in 2015 his first solo record ‘Searching a total state’, and to found his own record label with Alberto Randi and Giovanni Ricchi, "Timeless Records". In the same year he curated the performance and sound design for the performative theatre shows directed by Ennio Ruffolo. His natural interest in clubbing leaded him to open a new channel for the electronic music in Bologna and surroundings, with a serie of electronic events, such as "Sunday Calling" (2012 - 2014), "Futuro Dancefloor" (2015 - 2017), "Bologna Elettrica" (Electronic experimental Festival in XM24 social center, 2017, 2018) , and the new art collective "Einheit" (2017). soundcloud.com/tabache Lady_oN — operates as a videomaker and a visual artist on the national and international scene, realizing dreamlike live visuals sets, wraparound and imaginative visual scenographies invading the spaces of DJ sets, live music, installations and theatrical performances. In a constant state of research and experimentation, Lady_on’s visuals create hypnotic space-time fabrics in a cut up of images, video synthesis, found footage and feedback, contaminating the many pre-existing visuals with the possible infinites of live shooting and sonic incursions. Simultaneously, she is working on the Mediamorphose project, researching a multiplicity of visual expressions via music clips and video documenting reality.instagram.com/mediamorphose/

"Ondes noires" screening & FESTIVAL CLOSING FRI Oct 12th – 9pm @ Gallery Siva

"Ondes noires" / "Dark Waves", Documentary (21’14’’) In an ultraconnected society where waves have almost invaded every space, three electromagnetic intolerant people bear witness of survival in a world that seems more and more inacessible to them. The staging explores the idea of a deceleration in time. A necessary condition for the perception of a reality that extends beyond the visible. Written & Directed by Ismaël Joffroy Chandoutis; Cinematography by Nikos Appelquist Dalton; Production : Le Fresnoy – Studio national des arts contemporains.

// Screens and Prints Aaron Juarez Adrian Cain Affar Oppip Allison Tanenhaus Bartek Pilarczyk Creation by Destruction Cyberart By Justin Digital Ruins Earnest Raw elle thorkveld Ivana Miljkovic Ivana Miolin Barić John Bumstead jrdsctt Magdalena maja kalogera Mark Klink Mila Gvardiol Mirna Udovčić Neal Peterson Riitta Oittinen Robert Hruska Sabato Visconti satej soman Sebastian Gatz sepo Skinny Bunny tajny_projekt Tchidu Twin Pixel vivid windowzine Yuri Zalevski // Interactive Dario Zubovic Jim Andrews jonCates Kolmogorov Toolbox Magdalena Zoledz x Robert Kowalski Sabato Visconti Timo Kahlen // Narrative Gelido Jessica Evans Random Pixel Order // Time-based Baron Lanteigne + Derek Piotr Christoph Kerschner DAJAJDE Daniela Olejnykov (a.k.a paranthre, velvet_bites_) Daniela Takeva, Nikolina Nedialkova, Felix Ermacora Demet Karapinar DF0:BAD Digital Ruins Dom Barra _ AlteredData elle thorkveld Gochevas Ismaël Joffroy Chandoutis Kacper Mutke Lívia Zafanelli Lou Morlier Marija Lučić Meena Khalili Nickk Outernet Explorer Paloma Schnitzer & Pablo Denegri Paul Beaudoin Petra Drevenšek Philippe Girardet Qin Tan [sic][redacted] | alan page Timothy Nohe vivid // Lectures And Workshops Holographic_thought_process Ingeborg Fülepp Jo FRGMNT Grys Magno Caliman Mark Klink aka srcXor Nikša Gligo Ramiro Polla Random Pixel Order // Performances Jo FRGMNT Grys Lovely Insomnia Magno Caliman Nada Hasan Paul Vivien Tabache & Lady oN

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bristypathan · 3 years ago

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MUSEUMS & GALLARIES HIDE MASTERPIECES AWAY

Pablo Picasso in the institution’s permanent collection can currently be seen by visitors. Just one of California conceptual artist Ed Ruscha’s 145 pieces is on view. Surrealist Joan Miró? Nine out of 156 works.

The walls of the Tate, the Met, the Louvre or MoMA may look perfectly well-hung, but the vast majority of art belonging to the world’s top art institutions (and in many countries, their taxpayers) is at any time hidden from public view in temperature-controlled, darkened, and meticulously organised storage facilities. Overall percentages paint an even more dramatic picture: the Tate shows about 20% of its permanent collection. The Louvre shows 8%, the Guggenheim a lowly 3% and the Berlinische Galerie – a Berlin museum whose mandate is to show, preserve and collect art made in the city – 2% of its holdings. These include approximately 6,000 sculptures and paintings, 80,000 photographs, and 15,000 prints by artists including George Grosz and Hannah Höch.

“We don’t have the space to show more,” says Berlinische Galerie director Thomas Köhler, explaining that the museum has 1,200 sq m in which to display works acquired over decades through purchases and donations. “A museum stores memory, or culture,” explains Köhler. But here, like in other museums around the world, many works rarely if ever see the light of day.

A spatial deficit is only one reason why not. Another is fashion: some holdings no longer fit their institutions’ curatorial missions. Lesser works by well-known artists may also languish – their hits hang on museum walls; their misses lie forgotten in flat files. Works that come to a museum within estate acquisitions “might sit around in crates for years, waiting to be sorted,” explains Köhler. Some works stay under wraps due to delicacy or damage – and different institutions have varied storage and rotation policies, depending on a collection’s nature and scope. While London’s National Gallery uses a double hang system, thereby increasing the number of its permanent works on view, the Albertina in Vienna possesses more than a million Old Master prints – many of them centuries old and very sensitive. The percentage on view is thus very low, even if most of the holdings are kept onsite. (Other museums keep their caches in secret offsite warehouses.)

“Having 5% of your national collection on show is something people find difficult to understand,” says British curator Jasper Sharp, who was the commissioner of the Austrian pavilion at the 2013 Venice Bienniale. Many art institutions are thus coming up with ways to show their stuff, so to speak. “There is a great move to open up collections,” adds Sharp. Besides digitising images of the permanent collection (which many major institutions are currently in the process of doing), one way to display holdings is the idea of the Schaulager (translation: ‘storage display’) – in which visitors can see works archived, on sliding racks, behind glass, or during restoration. The Hermitage’s storage facility opened in 2014 and offers guided tours of collections long unseen; a number of US museums, like the Brooklyn Museum of Art have also created accessible storage centres. Other museum expansions – the Tate, the MoMA, and the Met are just a few currently underway – are meant to increase space for permanent collection viewing.

Until visible storage is everywhere – or museums grow so large that everything is on view, like a massive database – here are a few examples of wonderful things not often seen, and why.

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whereiputtheotherstuff · 7 years ago

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(Gif not mine but writing is)

New School

You had been dreading this day for weeks and there was no backing out now. “Good luck today sweetie. You’ll be fine. I’m always on the other end of the phone if you need me.” your Mum said as you waved to her whilst leaving your house. You had recently moved to America from England because of your parent’s work. It was the first day at your new school and you were more than anxious. The breeze blew the skirt of your dress. It takes only a second to make a first impression, so you thought that you should dress casually for your first day. A long sleeved dress, black tights and a pair of converses. Surely you would not look too out of place today.

After reaching the very intimidating building, you checked your watch. Early as planned. Before walking in, you took a deep breath in an attempt to calm the knot of nerves in the pit of you stomach. Slowly you approached the office desk as a kind looking woman greeted you. “Hi, I’m (Y/N). I-it’s my first day a-and I was told to come here early.” you said quietly. “Of course, welcome (Y/N). Boys come here.” she called.Two guys appeared from around the corner. One wore glasses and his mouth appeared to be constantly smirking. The other wore a blue shirt and kept alternating from looking at you and the floor. He looked just as nervous as you felt, which made no sense as he was already familiar with the school… or… were the students here really that bad? “(Y/N), this is Jared Kleinman and Evan hansen. Take good care of her guys, this is her very first day.” the woman smiled as the boys led you out into the hallway.

The school corridor had started to fill with students. One thing that you noticed immediately was that Jared was far more confident than Evan. He showed you to your locker and then the three of you continued to walk as more people squeezed around you as they went about their business. Jared was like your own personal tour guide as he told you the ins and outs of everyday school life. “(Y/N), the most important thing to remember is that there are three different kinds of people at this school. The popular kids.” He pointed to incredibly pretty girls whose strapping boyfriends hung an arm around their shoulder. “The unpopular kids.” Jared pointed at Evan who was stood beside you. “And then there’s me.“ You raise an inquisitive eyebrow at his last comment. “One of a kind and one hundred percent class." His words made you giggle, causing both him and Evan to smile. The relationship between the two boys seemed a bit of a strange one and their friendship seemed to be very one sided.

"Hmm and I think that’s about it. Unless there is anything else you would like us to show you?” Jared asked. “No but thank you for your help.” you replied shyly in a quiet voice. “I’m sorry what?” Jared said. “No but thank you for your help.” you repeated but louder this time. Jared, Evan and a couple of the students who were close enough to hear you, froze. Jared’s eyes widened slightly. "Your majesty.“ he said dramatically as he bowed infront of you, causing even more people to stare. Damn, he must have picked up on your accent. Your cheeks flushed red in embarrassment. Why did he have to make such a big deal about it, was it not obvious to him that you were already nervous? Luckily the bell rang before anything else could be said. Turning on your heels, you hastily ran to class.

Your morning classes had been better than you thought. Most of them were just icebreaker exercises so you could get to know your fellow students. Or they were introductory lectures on what you were going to be taught during the year. Despite this you found the mixture of being in a new place, introducing yourself to strangers and discovering how many different things you were going to learn this year, very overwhelming. You breathed a sigh of relief when the lunch bell rang. Unable to have the courage to face the school cafeteria, you were thankful to have brought a packed lunch. It was just a question of where to eat it. Outside looked chilly, so you slid into the library which was currently empty. The room looked a lot bigger inside than you expected. Shelves were stocked high with books on a variety of subjects. Despite being in a deserted room, you could not shake the familiar feeling of nerves that made you on edge. Even though you had made it through the morning you were anxious about what the afternoon would bring. You needed to retreat somewhere. Walking down an aisle, you sat on the floor when you reached its end. By this time you started to breath heavily and you knew what was coming. Please not here. Not on your first day. Your body started to shake as tears pricked your eyes but did not fall. Reaching into your bag, you pulled out your phone, perhaps you should call your Mum. No if you phoned your mum she would instantly come and pick you up and you would feel like a failure. In truth she was as nervous about your first day at school as you were. Come on (Y/N), you could do this. After sliding your phone back in your bag, you sat there and stared at the floor continuing to gasp for air. How many minutes was the maximum it was supposed to last, twenty? Hopefully the internet wasn’t lying. The sound of your heavy breathing rang in your ears, which abruptly stopped when you heard a book fall over quite far in front of where you were sitting. You quickly looked up. A guy was standing at the other end of the aisle. Dressed in a black hoodie and skinny jeans which emphasised his tall, lean figure. His face partially covered by his long brown hair. Despite being quite far away, he was staring at you intensely. How long had he been there? How much had he seen? Judging by where he was and how he looked at you, he had been there for a while. Great, you thought to yourself. An audience is just what you need when you have a panic attack. Trying to make you look less suspicious, you grab a book from a shelf and stare at it whilst you frantically flicked through its pages. Luckily you were in the right section of the library as you had picked a book called ‘Pre-Raphaelite Paintings’. You loved their work and art was one of the subjects that you enjoyed the most. It didn’t take you long to find the page with your favourite painting on. Ophelia by John Everett Millais. There was something so beautifully morbid about it, almost poetic. You remembered the school trip that you went to in London when you lived in England. Your class had visited the Tate Britain gallery. This very painting had caught your attention and it took over an hour to pull yourself away from it. If you closed your eyes it was like you were back there. A school kid engrossed in the brush strokes of an old master. Opening your eyes, you jump slightly as the mysterious man had walked closer to you. He looked your age. His eyebrows were in a confused frown, though his eyes showed little to no emotion. What did he want? You set the book down on your lap with trembling hands as you reached in your bag for an apple. Your breathing was more steady but not back to normal yet. Despite looking at the apple that you had bitten into, you could feel him still staring at you. Feeling slightly uncomfortable you glanced up at him and quietly said "Sorry” to fill the awkward silence. He chuckled slightly, wondering what you were apologising for.

He continued to walk towards you and was now only about a metre away. “Is it a tragedy or a blessing?” he said in a stern voice. You looked at him in confusion. What an odd phrase to use as his first ever words spoken to you. Even so, he didn’t seem like a bad guy. Usually you would be too scared to talk to people that you didn’t know but you decided to push yourself and try something new. Encouraging his conversation, you pat the floor next to you. To your surprise, he sat down next to you as he spoke. “Ophelia… Her death in Hamlet.” You nodded with a smile in reply. You could see what he was getting at. Reaching into his shoulder bag, he took out a sandwich and began to eat it. “I’m Connor by the way” he mumbled with a mouthful of food. “(Y/N). It’s lovely to meet you.” you smile back at him. Suddenly he frowned at you and anger filled his eyes. “Is that some sort of sarcastic joke? I’m sure that Kleinman has told you about me!” he growled. You did not understand why he suddenly changed his mood. If he wanted to scare you on your first day then he was going the right way about it. You saw that he was getting ready to stand up and probably leave. In an effort to stop him you quickly began to speak.

“No. You are the first person to actually come over and talk to me today. I’m new and I have found today difficult. Especially since you saw that I…” you cut yourself off, looking down at your trembling hands in embarrassment. He knew that you were going to say ‘since you saw that I had a panic attack’ you just couldn’t bring yourself to say it aloud. Also you found his harsh stare very intimidating. “Chip?” he offered, holding a bag of crisps to you. “Thank you.” you replied taking one and quickly devouring it. It was nice, you both felt human. You glanced at Connor and saw that the edge of his lips were curled up into a small smile, which made you smile. Sometimes it is what’s unsaid that says the most. The bell rang, snapping you both back to reality. Hastily you placed the book on the shelf and stood up, however Connor did not seem to be in such a rush. “Sorry I have got to find out where my next class is. I look forward to seeing you again.” you smile. He gave you a nod as you sprinted out of the library.

Your afternoon lessons were similar to the ones that you had attended in the morning. It had been a stressful first day and you were exhausted, thankful when the final bell of the day rang. As you walked home, your mind began to wonder and think about the day’s events. The kids there seemed nice. You probably had most in common with Evan, he was always nice and tried to help where he could even if his nerves were getting the better of him. With Jared, his sarcasm knows no bounds. Sure he meant well but it was sometimes bordering on being well… just an annoying jerk. Finally there’s Connor, who you guess was more of an acquaintance than a friend. He was still a complete mystery. Perhaps it was because you both felt out of place at this school and this had brought you together. You did not even know if you would see him again so you could get to know him better but perhaps he would be in one of your classes.

Opening the door, you smile as you were finally back to the familiarity of home. “Sweetie is that you? Your father and I are in the dining room and I have just served up a plate for you.” called your Mum. As you walked into the room, your parents could instantly see how tired you were because of the black rings under your eyes. “So how did it go? Tell us everything.” your Mum asked excitedly. You proceeded to talk about your classes and what you were going to learn throughout the year. That Jared and Evan showed you around. You glossed over the part about lunch as you knew that they would ask why you didn’t go to the cafeteria.

The next day at school was a lot better. It helped that you now knew the building, so you did not feel so anxious. Each class today did give you homework, it was not a lot but enough to keep you busy. Pushing yourself again, you decided to eat your packed lunch in the cafeteria. Sitting next to Evan, much to Evan’s surprise, you thought it best if you started to know each other a little better. You felt most comfortable talking to him and discovered that you actually had quite a few things in common. The both of you spoke about your love of nature. “M-maybe I c-could show you the parks near here.” he stuttered. “I would love that.” you replied with a huge grin on your face, making Evan smile.

Breezing through your afternoon classes, the last bell of the day was a most welcomed sound. Quickly you walk to your locker. “Queenie!” called the unmistakable voice of Jared who walked towards you and put one of his arms around you, Evan trailing behind. Honestly he was a bit too close for comfort but you knew that he was just trying to be friendly. After he removed his arm you went and stood next to Evan, to give yourself a little bit of space between you and Jared. “Hi, did you have a good day?” you ask the boys cheerfully. They start to talk about their day. Jared looked a little saddened when he heard that you and Evan had sat on the same table at lunch without him.

A smirk appeared on Jared’s face. “Hey Connor, loving the new hair length. Very school shooter chic.” he said as he looked at someone behind you. Could it be the guy you shared lunch break with yesterday? However why would Jared say something like that to him? You did not dare turn around to see who he was talking to as you didn’t want to get involved. “I’m just kidding. It’s a joke.” he added. However it really didn’t sound like a joke. “Yeah I know it was funny. I’m laughing. Can’t you tell?” said a familiar voice, it was the same Connor from yesterday. Nerves started to knot in your stomach as the conversation made you feel uncomfortable, hopefully it was finished now. There was no need for the two boys to be rude to each other or was there some sort of history there? “Am I not laughing hard enough for you?” Connor continued now in a raised voice that made you jump slightly. You looked up to see Evan looking behind you in concern. He must be feeling nervous too. “You’re such a freak.” Jared replied “That was not very nice.” you said quietly to Jared as he walked to his locker which was a few feet away.

“Did someone laugh! Or did someone add a snide comment!” Connor shouted in anger. Your face lost all of its colour. Perhaps the ground would swallow you up as you really did not want to be there anymore. Connor now seeing red, his eyes focused on Evan who he stormed towards. Connor was now in front of you a foot away from Evan’s face, luckily with his back to you. “You think I’m a freak?” he yelled. “N-no I-I didn’t say a-anything.” Evan stuttered. “Bullshit!” Connor shouted. Slowly you took a few steps backward, hoping that you could blend in with a lockers that lined the walls of the hallway. It was too late, Connor had noticed your shadow start to move. He wasn’t going to let the owner of the shadow get away so easily.

“I bet it was you! You must think that you are so hilarious tha-” he turned around yelling but cut himself off when he saw you but it was too late, the damage had already been done. Your face was one of pure fright. Connor Murphy was terrifying. You had cowered slightly under his imposing frame. Staring at you for a fraction of a second, the image of how you had looked in the library yesterday when you were having a panic attack filled his mind. However this time he was the one who caused you to panic. Tears pricked in the corners or your wide, shock filled eyes. It was all too much. You needed to get out of there now. Raising your arms, you gently push into Connor’s chest, causing him to take a couple of steps back. Before you ran down the hallway and out of school. He wanted to run after you but something was holding him back. “Nice one Murphy.” said Jared sarcastically. Connor glared at him with his fists clenched before walking off.

Taking a deep breath to calm yourself, you open the door to your home. Just act natural, the last thing you want is for your parents to be worried about your current state. “I’m just going to my room to look at the homework I got today. I’ll eat later.” you called. “OK, don’t work yourself too hard honey.” said your Dad. After climbing the stairs you close the door to your bedroom after entering it. The walk home had allowed you enough time to calm down a little bit. However your mind started to replay the events that happened earlier. Connor did not mean it, or did he? He was alright in the library on your first day but was he now showing his true colours? No it was a mistake. You made a mental note to ask Evan and Jared tomorrow about Connor. There seemed to be a history about him that you did not know. Should you be worried about it? Your brain was working overtime. You needed to distract yourself somehow. Picking up your school bag, you begin to look over all of the homework that you had been set.

Your phone began to vibrate. Unlocking it, you see the words ‘1 new message’ illuminate the screen. 'Hi (Y/N), I hope that you are ok. Do you want to talk?' It was Evan checking to see if you were alright. He was always so kind, you’ll be best friends in no time. You quickly replied. 'I’m ok, just a little shaken up. Will be better by tomorrow. Hope that you are ok :)' You were so engrossed in texting that you nearly didn’t hear the doorbell ring, shortly followed by footsteps climbing the stairs. Mum must be home. Your bedroom door swung open, it was your Dad.

“(Y/N) there’s a boy here to see you. He didn’t want to come in so he’s out the front. Also he seems to have difficulty talking.” your Dad said before walking back to the kitchen. “Evan” you mumble to yourself with a smile. He must have stopped by to make sure that you were OK. Happily you sprint down the stair before walking out the front. You froze when you looked up to see who was waiting for you…Connor. You started to back away from him slightly. In all honesty you did not know how to feel at this point. “(Y/N). Wait… Please.” he started in a voice that was barely louder than a whisper. “I wanted to stop by to say that it was just all my fault… I just… I just get so angry sometimes over the stupidest shit and I don’t know why. I am such an idiot.” he said with honesty in his voice. You tilted your head to one side slightly as confusion wash over your face. “Damn it, I guess it’s ok because we weren’t that close. I knew that I would screw up and lose you sooner or later. Just didn’t think it would only be in a couple of days.” he growled. There was a look of despair in his eyes. “I’m sorry” he said.You continued to stare at him. It was obvious from his face that his apology was genuine. He had anger problems but not everyone was perfect. In all honesty you did hardly know the guy but there was definitely a potential friend there. Connor has been one of the few who hasn’t yet made fun of your accent. He had gone out of his way to apologise. Everyone deserves a second chance.

A small smile appeared on your face. “Let’s try again. Hi I’m (Y/N).” you say as you gently grab his hand and shake it. The action had caused him to jump but when he realised what you were doing, he started to smile back at you. “Connor Murphy.” he replied. “Would you like to join me for lunch tomorrow, I’ll be on the table in the corner?” you asked. “I look forward to it.” he grinned before waving goodbye and walking off.

One thing was for sure, Connor Murphy was still a mystery.

#connor murphy x reader #dear evan hansen #connor murphy #deh #mike faist #fanfic

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