#exploration of morals and philosophical questions in my media

[a-b3rry-disaster]

I can't escape

history will always repeat itself

like I remember seeing the tmnt fandom blow up because of the rottmnt movie, remembered my little cousin watching episodes of 2012, and was just curious on what kind of fandom they are

i ended up in months of brainrot, trying to learn more of the different timelines and iterations, i was in deep

transformers blew up because of a new movie, i was curious, i remembered that same little cousin watchin an episode of prime

fuck

i am knee deep into star trek right now, i didn't even finish the tmnt series

brain

i'm begging you

i can't handle two large franchise series right now

transformers is way too much

fuck it

i blame transformers fans for being so passionate and transformers for being my cup of tea

[13eyond13]

gotta say i tried watching the iwtv series but the tone just seems off somehow. there are good things about it sure, and i do love sam reid (?) as lestat, but the tone issue is similar to why i think vampire diaries is so off-putting for me. like, it focuses on sex and blood so strongly in a way, and sort of misses the elements that made the books so interesting to me. i wish i could explain this vibe better, lol.

that being said, i would be interested in your opinion on the show if you ever watch it! often when i happen to know the piece of media you're talking about you voice things about it that i haven't been able to put into words myself but strongly agree with, haha.

I'll try watching it today since the books are still fresh in my mind and see what I think! Curious to know instead of just judge mostly based on clips and gifs...

[reachartwork]

asked my robot son (@statsbot) to brainstorm a minecraft movie that doesnt suck

text under read more

Let me tell you about a different kind of Minecraft movie:

INITIAL QUESTIONS How do we handle the complete isolation of the Minecraft world without resorting to isekai tropes? What's the core philosophical theme that could drive a mature narrative? How do we address the building/crafting mechanics without making them feel gamey? What role should the hostile mobs play in a serious narrative? How can we incorporate the inherent emptiness and loneliness of the world?

DETAILED RESPONSES The film opens in medias res - we never learn how humanity came to this cubic world, because it doesn't matter. Our protagonist is part of a small community of builders and survivors who have always been here. No portal, no transportation, no explanation needed. This is simply their reality, like how we don't question the physics of our own universe. The core theme revolves around humanity's relationship with creation and destruction. The protagonist is a master builder in their community who discovers ancient ruins suggesting that their civilization isn't the first to exist in this world. The film explores cycles of creation, destruction, and rebirth, drawing parallels to real-world lost civilizations.

The crafting system is presented as an inherent natural law of their universe - materials combine in specific ways, like chemistry in our world. The film treats this as mundane reality rather than game mechanics. Buildings aren't instantly placed but constructed through time lapses showing genuine effort and community cooperation.

The hostile mobs are treated as natural phenomena - the Creepers are portrayed as silent, tragic creatures drawn to human creation with an inherent need to destroy it. Zombies and Skeletons emerge from ancient ruins, suggesting they're remnants of the previous civilization. The Endermen are portrayed as incomprehensible beings studying human behavior from a distance.

The vast emptiness between settlements is treated as both beautiful and terrifying. Long shots of endless cubic horizons emphasize the scale of the world and humanity's tiny place within it. The emptiness serves as a canvas for human creativity but also a reminder of cosmic loneliness.

FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS How does the discovery of another surviving settlement change the protagonist's worldview? What happens when they find evidence that the previous civilization fell due to their own hubris in attempting to access The End? Why do some members of the community oppose expanding their knowledge of redstone technology? What drives some community members to venture into the Nether despite the obvious dangers? How does the community handle the philosophical implications of villager trading and their level of sentience?

ADDITIONAL DETAILS The film's structure follows a three-act format but breaks conventional storytelling rules by maintaining a meditative pace. The score emphasizes ambient sounds and C418's original music, treating silence as another character. The visual style embraces the cubic nature of the world while using modern lighting techniques to create genuine beauty.

The climax doesn't involve a typical boss fight but rather a moral choice about whether to repeat the cycles of the past. When the protagonist discovers the truth about The End portal beneath their village, they must decide whether knowledge is worth the risk of destruction.

The film ends ambiguously, with the community choosing to build something new while accepting they may not be the last civilization to inhabit this world. The final shot pulls back to reveal their entire settlement is built upon layers of ancient ruins, suggesting countless cycles of civilization before them.

Key scenes include: A silent sequence showing the meticulous construction of a grand structure The first discovery of redstone, treated with the gravity of discovering atomic energy A haunting scene where Endermen gather to observe a funeral ceremony The protagonist realizing their village's architectural style matches patterns in the ancient ruins

The film refuses to explain many of its mysteries, treating the Minecraft world like our own - full of questions we may never answer. This respects both the source material and the audience's intelligence, creating a genuinely thoughtful science fiction film that happens to be set in a cubic world.

[beemoon17]

Deconstructing my Religion + Reading the Bible Beginning to End

I grew up Christian the way many Americans do. If people asked or if I asked what our religion was I was told Christian, my family has occasional periods where we’d go to church on Sunday mornings, that sort of thing. It wasn’t something we really talked about at home or made a big deal about living by. I went to a Christian school for two years, from 4th to 5th grade, I’m autistic and my mom thought I’d benefit from the smaller class sizes, but she pulled me out after 5th grade because I came out as transgender in 5th and she figured it wasn’t the best environment for me as a queer person.

I’ve explored alternative religions and spiritualities most of my life, starting around 5th grade. I’ve been interested in the Greek gods, witchcraft and paganism, Norse gods, deities like Lord Lucifer or King Asmodeus. It’s in my nature to research, it’s always been my favorite activity. So I’ve read books, posts on social media, watched videos, explored articles. And although I developed technical understandings and even interests in worshiping specific deities or participating in specific practice, I’ve never been able to allow myself to commit.

I wondered often why that is. I’ve wondered why I hold so much fear over doing it wrong, making mistakes, or even just not knowing enough. I’ve come to the conclusion that it is because even though Christianity was not as large an influence in my life as it was for others, it was still an influence, especially because of my queer identity and the commonly held views of Christians in regards to that. I’ve decided that in order to commit fully to a religious or spiritual path that feels right for me I need to fully understand, dissect, and deconstruct my personal understanding of the Christian religion.

To do this I have decided to read the Bible the whole way through, taking notes on my questions interpretations, theories, and general observations. I have decided that I will post my musings here on my blog for others to enjoy. I will put a disclaimer, I am clearly not an expert on religion. I have not studied it in a university, I am not a professor, I am not a philosopher. I’m just a regular old person. My views are subject to personal bias, my interpretations are not full proof , and my theories and ideas will not always be without holes or questionable logic. I am not perfect and make no claims to be. However, I refuse to prescribe to an archaic and classist idea that the Bible and other religious texts can only be interpreted and understood by scholars and those of “superior” intellect. Texts that are published to the public, texts that many are expected to choose to base their lives and morals around, should be analyzed and reviewed by those people. If I get anything blatantly wrong, or if you have other ideas or interpretations, I am extremely open to hearing about my mistakes or discussing things! I love to talk, be respectful and it’ll be fun! These are also my thoughts as I read, as I read I stopped and wrote down exactly what my first thoughts and questions were. So many of them may be incomplete or subject to change and rethinking as I go on. I am providing my in the moment thoughts and opinions, and also my evolution of thoughts.

I’ve decided to take note of every commandment/rule/law so that I can know and understanding them all, so some of these bullet points will just be those with no thoughts. Others will be general observations. There will also be questions, many of which I will have answers to whether that be answers I found through research or answers I found through my personal understandings. I will also have “theories.” And so, without anything else to add, here are my notes.

1. Genesis 2:3 “Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.”

2. Genesis 2:9 “The LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground — trees that were pleasing to the eye and food for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” I had never known there were two distinct trees in the garden, I was always led to understand these two trees as the same, interchangeable in name and function.

3. Why is LORD written in all capital letters at some times and not at others? This is because LORD is a translation of the Hebrew word considered to be the true name of God “YHWH” or “YHVH”. It was written this way because Hebrew lacked vowels and when written, people just knew how to pronounce it aloud despite it not being written out. The Jewish people also had a tradition, a belief, about not saying the true name of God aloud out of respect, because it was holy, instead they would say “Adonai” which is Hebrew word meaning “Lord”, when reading aloud or speaking of God. So in the Old Testament when it says LORD it is a translation of “YHWH” or “YHVH”, the true name of God, and when the Old Testament just says Lord it is a translation of the word “Adonai” which literally means lord, sovereign, or master. When “God” is used to refer to God it is translated most often in the Old Testament from the word “Elohim”, it is a plural word often used alongside singular words to refer to God. It is also used in reference to other gods in the Old Testament.

4. Genesis 2:16-17 ‘And the LORD God commanded the man “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”’ I noted that Adam was given no commands regarding the other special tree mentioned, the tree of life.

5. In Genesis 2:18 and Genesis 2:20 the word “helper” is used to describe the companion God hopes for Adam to have, what is this word helper translated from? It is translated from the Hebrew word “ezer.” The word ezer is also used to refer to God himself 16 times from what I read, including in Psalms 33:20 and Psalms 115:9 where the word is used to describe God as a help to us, to man. Many view women as being created as a subordinate to man, created to be his helper in a way that implies she is less than or subordinate, but the same word used to describe woman’s purpose in being created is used to describe God. And one thing the Christian god is not is subordinate to his creations. Going by this interpretation of the word, I would say that woman was created to be an equal partner to man, to act as a protector, a strength, a rescuer and an ally.

6. In Genesis 2:21-22, God, who is referred to using masculine pronouns, and Adam, who is a man, create the first woman, Eve. Two MEN are responsible for the creation of a person, the first person ever created from another person rather than from God alone. God takes a rib from Adam and fashions it into Eve, and so Eve is, in a way, born from Adam’s body. It almost feels like the creation story here is a way to discredit women in the act of creation, to take away from what it means that women create life in their wombs and bring men and women both into the world. From the gender perspective of the time women are people with vaginas who give birth. So how do you take away from this power women have, this insane act of creation they are capable of? Give the credit to men. I mean right after this in Genesis 2:23 it says ‘The man said, “this is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.”’ But it is literally men who are taken from women, who come from women, life comes from women!

(I personally have a much more complex view of sex and gender, of what it means to give birth, be pregnant, and to be a woman. However, for the case of the perspectives of the time and for my sanity I am using simple and non exploratory language that does not encapsulate my full understanding of sex and gender.)

7. Genesis 3:4-5 ‘“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”’ That is what the serpent says to Eve about eating from the tree, and I’m going to argue that I don’t believe he lied. Yes, the serpent led Eve to disobey the word of God, which of course God would not like, and by Christian standards would be considered sinful, but he in no way lied to do it. As I mentioned before, in Genesis 2:16-17 it says this ‘And the LORD God commanded the man “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”’ God gives no reason why it is bad that Adam would gain this knowledge, the only reason he gives not to eat from it is that he would certainly die when he did. Now, do Adam and Eve one day die? Yes. Do they die as a result of eating from the tree of knowledge of good and evil? No, not in my opinion, which I will explain, and so the serpent didn’t lie about that, it was not certain that Adam and Eve would die as a result of eating from the tree, and they did not certainly have to die at all. Additionally, the serpent says that Eve will become like God if she eats from the tree of knowledge, which she does, as God confirms himself in Genesis 3:22. So once again no lie from the serpent. The serpent only offered Eve what she truly desired, which was KNOWLEDGE, which was WISDOM, as is stated in Genesis 3:6. Eating the fruit didn’t take away Adam and Eve’s immortality, it wasn’t a fruit that stripped them of that, they couldn’t be stripped of it even if it was because Adam and Eve were mortal when they ate the fruit. Eating the fruit simply gave Adam and Eve the same knowledge of good and evil that God himself possessed, which God did not like. Going back to Genesis 3:22-23, which says ‘And the LORD God said, “The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever.” So the LORD God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken.’ When we go back to this verse we see that Adam and Eve did not have to “certainly die”, they possessed the same knowledge and wisdom that God himself possessed, and God was immortal with this knowledge and wisdom, and according to his text possesses this knowledge and wisdom and is still purely good and without sin or fault. So it stands to reason that God simply did not like that Adam and Eve had this knowledge themselves, and so he chose to punish them with death and harder lives. Not for anything truly evil, purely for not doing what he said, and for possessing knowledge that he did not wish them to have. Knowledge that perhaps made them too much like him for God’s taste, too equal to him.

8. All of that above translated to an idea or theory or whatever you’d like to call it in my mind. It seems to me that Heaven may not be the ideal happy place most think it will be. Long after the time of Adam and Eve, the Bible says that Jesus comes to Earth to die for humanity’s sins and give us the gift of eternal life, which God did not allow Adam and Eve to have on account of their gaining of knowledge of good and evil, their new found wisdom. So, in my mind it seems logical to assume that going to Heaven is not just about loving Jesus and God, and viewing them as your savior. My “theory” is that in order to go to Heaven you have to give up what Adam and Eve took for themselves and for all of humanity, the knowledge of good and evil. You pay for your passage into Heaven by becoming a blank slate of sorts, you become passive, without higher critical thought. You lose the likeness to God humanity gained through eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, the likeness that in my theory, is humanity’s ability to create like God, to have ideas like God of new and big things, to innovate and wonder and speculate. Heaven is enteral mindless bliss and worship and devotion, and all it costs is everything that makes you free and “human” as we view humanity today.

[thedrarrylibrarian]

Several people have been kind enough to let me publish their thoughts on fandom, community, and queerness to celebrate Pride in the Library. Today's piece comes from @writcraft.

The Local Government Act 1988 was enacted in Britain nearly a decade before the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the book that would eventually lead me to fandom. This odd piece of legislation covered a variety of things from pet licences to housing arrangements. It also contained the infamous Section 28, which had an enormous impact on LGBT Britain during the late 1980s and 1990s. 

Driven by a moral panic over the inclusion of a book called Jenny Lives With Eric and Martin in school libraries and the stigmatised nature of desire between men at the peak of the HIV/AIDS crisis, Section 28 was the product of a Tory government determined to eradicate any kind of perceived radicalism from education. One of the more famous clips from Thatcher’s 1987 speech on the matter is here if you have the stomach for it, primarily shared due to its eerie similarities with the agendas espoused by conservative politicians around the globe today.

My teen years were shaped by Section 28 and the HIV/AIDS crisis, a time of tabloid press sensationalism on the one hand and silence on the other. Media visibility was complicated by a single shared television in the family home and in those fleeting moments I encountered queer narratives, they often leaned into coded stereotypes, death tropes, loneliness and isolation. Intimacy between women was susceptible to the male gaze, whilst trans folks and bisexuals were largely invisible or negatively portrayed. Nobody in my school year or university class came out during their time in education. We were there, but many of us explored our desires only in the shadows. This climate complicated my same-sex experiences and gender ambivalence, making it all too easy to dismiss them as something other than queer.

My introduction to fandom was through academic research and archives like The Hex Files and The Silver Snitch. When I first met the people behind the stories it was, unusually, not in an online forum, but face to face at a fan convention, where I delivered a paper on the queer pleasures of slash. At the time I was ricocheting in and out of the closet in my day-to-day life and I had no connections with any queer community, just a disparate handful of people I was inexplicably drawn to who tentatively shared their secrets with me and I, in turn, shared mine with them. 

During the fan convention I set up my LiveJournal, made early connections that would blossom into decade long friendships and found myself immersed in a space filled with creative, queer, kink-positive people. The friendships I made, and the ones that came after, gave me the confidence to live a more public queer life, to show up in my local community as an activist, writer and researcher. I have travelled around the world and raised a glass with fandom friends in numerous queer spaces from The Stonewall Inn to Manchester’s Canal Street.

Creatively, fandom gave me the space to revisit, reflect and reclaim. Because canon is so devoid of explicit queerness, it leaves open the question of political and social attitudes towards gender and sexuality. Stories like Little Compton Street, The Beauty of Thestrals and Other Unseen Things, Pride, Harry Potter and the Bisexual Awakening, Born Sick and Secret Love Song allowed me to imagine how Harry and Draco might navigate a world that reinforces binaries and closets, exacerbates internalised homophobia, renders bisexuality invisible and complicates queer awakenings. It has been cathartic to pour queer hope and defiance into those socio-political climates and equally cathartic to explore queer pain, grief and longing.

I do not have a rose-tinted notion of fandom as a queer utopian space. I am well aware of the pervasive issues that marginalise fans of colour (see Squee From the Margins: Fandom and Race by Rukmini Pande). In this particular fandom with an author whose views I find abhorrent, I no longer hold any nostalgia for a franchise I have not invested in for years. What keeps me here is friendship, creative possibility, the understanding that my stories are not for everyone but the hope that some readers might find comfort in the exploration of themes I continually return to. If you made it this far, thank you for reading. Huge thanks to @thedrarrylibrarian for giving me the opportunity to share a little about my topsy-turvy queer journey during Pride month. If you have any questions about anything I have shared, my asks and DMs are always open.

Thank you, Writ, for joining me in the Library and sharing so much insight about earlier days in fandom. I appreciate that you took the time to discuss complicated topics and provided the opportunity for everyone to broaden their horizons and better informed participants in fandom. Most of all, thank you for taking the time to celebrate Pride in the Library with me.

If you want more @writcraft, be sure to check out their work on AO3! Writ has an unbelievable talent for combining history and the impact of real legislation into fic. She recommended some of her fics earlier, but I want to spotlight their fic, The Beauty of Thestrals and Other Unseen Things. I loved the way that they were inspired by Queer history in the UK, and I loved the gentle way that she explored that real heartache and bravery through Harry and Draco. This fic, like so many of Writ's fics, reminds me that there have been countless Queer people throughout history and I'm not alone.

🏳️‍🌈 Lots of Love and Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈

[ciaossu-imagines]

So for day 11 of the event, I used the letter ‘B’ from prompt 13 for Motojirou from Bungou Stray Dogs! I had a lot of fun writing for him, as he’s not someone I have a lot of experience writing for or even digging deep into and I hope that any fans of his will enjoy 😊

Being best friends with Kotojirou

So, let’s bring up the obvious. To truly be best friends with someone like Motojirou, you’d have to have somewhat loose morals. Motojirou is a man with little respect for humanity and human life, holding science above all else. To get along with other people, he needs to find them either interesting and intriguing or respect them and to truly connect with him, his best friend does have to at least hold some interest in science and be willing to accept and roll with the human sacrifices needed, in Motojirou’s mind, for that science.

I do think, for a friendship to really work for Motojirou, he wants a best friend who will challenge him while accepting him at the same time. He wants someone to question him, to be like ‘okay, this doesn’t make sense in my head. Either explain it to me or accept that you might be wrong this time’ because, as a scientist and someone who considers himself a lifelong learner, complacency is a fear of his and having someone to challenge him like that is absolutely necessary in his mind. However, he doesn’t want a ‘friend’ who will constantly be harping on him about how he chooses to live his life or how he chooses to conduct his experiments. He has enough voices calling him insane, unhinged, a villain, he doesn’t need any more and especially not from someone who claims to care about him.

I do headcanon pretty strongly that Motojirou is someone who is attracted, in all ways, to people who are terminally ill or even just deal with a chronic condition. He finds it intriguing and getting to spend his life, even just a part of it, with someone going through that, getting to see the progress of the illness or the impacts it has on his friend – that would really interest him and would make the person both friend and interesting subject to him philosophically, scientifically, and emotionally.

Motojirou is someone who is very intellectual in his own way. He enjoys thinking about and exploring some really deep subject matter and while he’ll be thrilled if his best friend is someone who also enjoys science, it’s not actually a necessity. What is a necessity in his best friend is that they’re someone who is also very intellectual. He wants to be able to talk about all the serious subjects and the heavy topics, both sociologically, scientifically, and philosophically and he needs a best friend who won’t be afraid to talk about, learn about, and discuss these various sensitive topics with him. Not only does he want them to talk about these subjects, but he wants them to have their own opinions and he’ll have a lot of fun, actually, if they make the topic into a sort of debate, with ideas and opinions that might challenge his own.

That’s not to say that being best friends with this man is all seriousness and science and mental stimulation, because it’s not. It will be a large part of it, but at the same time, he is only human, and he does want to just be silly or have fun with his friend at times.

Motojirou really does enjoy opera and he’ll want to get out with his friend to go watch performances whenever their schedules align. While he’ll expect silence during the performance, so that they can both get really into the opera being performed, he really has a lot of fun discussing what was good about the performance, what could have been improved, thoughts on the storyline, the songs, and all of that.

I do really see him loving science fiction stories as well, both reading them and watching media geared towards that kind of thing and I think on really chill days or nights, when there’s not a lot going on or Motojirou has exhausted most of his energy, he really does love just sitting down with his friend, some take-out, a big comfy couch, and binging a good sci-fi show together. He actually doesn’t demand silence during the show and it’s nothing for him and his best friend to keep a pretty steady stream of chatter throughout the show, both about normal topics that pop into their mind and about the show itself.

[fireliit]

LOGAN, THIRTY-ONE, CST; SHE/THEY. | if you’re hearing COMING HOME by BRIDGES playing, you have to know KAREEM SALAAM (HE/HIM; CIS MAN) is near by! the THIRTY-SEVEN year old MUSEUM CURATOR has been in denver for, like, SIX MONTHS. they’re known to be quite FICKLE, but being FREE-THINKING seems to balance that out. or maybe it’s the fact that they resemble YAHYA ABDUL-MATEEN II. personally, i’d love to know more about them seeing as how they’ve got those PERFECTIONISM THAT IS ALWAYS BEING FINE-TUNED AND REWORKED LIKE A MOLD OF CLAY, A GLASS OF CURATED WINE WHILE READING CLIVE BELL FOR THE THOUSANDTH TIME, FRENCH PRESS COFFEE WITH A SPLASH OF CONDENSED MILK vibes. and maybe i’ll get my chance if i hang out around the CHERRY CREEK long enough!

Full profile under the cut! APPLICABLE TRIGGER WARNINGS: brief mentions of death by helicopter accident and natural causes

STATS Full Name: Kareem Arash Salaam Nickname(s): None Occupation: Museum curator at Denver Art Museum Age: Thirty-seven Date of Birth: July 22nd, 1986 Ethnicity/Race: Black, West Indian, African-Caribbean Gender & Pronouns: Cis man | he/him Orientation: Bisexual Height: 193 cm / 6’3” Tattoo(s): None Piercing(s): None Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Current Residence: Denver, Colorado Languages: English (fluent), French (fluent) Social Class: Upper middle class Notable Family Members: Jahmal Salaam (father, deceased), Abigail Salaam (mother), Hamaad Salaam (paternal grandfather, deceased) Traits: Honorable, creative, free-thinking, philosophical, inventive, fickle, snooty and petty MBTI: ISTP - The Virtuoso Eanneatype: Type 3 - The Achiever Moral Alignment: True Neutral Temperament: Phlegmatic Intelligence Type: Spatial, existential Astrology: Cancer sun, Aquarius moon, Capricorn ascending Habits: Glancing at watch, tapping his foot, rubbing chin, tunes boring people out, over-organized, snores when sleeping, turns almost everything into a project, raising eyebrows, often stands with hands behind his back Hobbies: Metalcrafting, wood-working, resin molding, anything art-related, visiting wineries, art journaling, visiting restaurants and giving scorching reviews on social media, reading Likes: Charcuterie boards, cured meats, philosophical debate, questioning existence and other people's poor choices, candles, pastries Dislikes: The fog, cake that's too sweet, flying on airplanes, people trying to give him nicknames, being cold, clutter BIOGRAPHY His father was a hero. That’s what others would tell Kareem when they recounted how his father died in a helicopter accident as an EMSA pilot during a vicious hurricane.  

But Kareem wasn't ever interested in chasing after his father's legacy, in flying that close to the sun, keeping his feet planted firmly on the ground from a young age. 

As the result of his father passing and his mother being away from home a lot working, he was raised primarily by a no-nonsense paternal grandfather starting from the age of seven. His grandfather instilled in him high values and expectations and, as a result, Kareem always has held himself to high standards and views the world with a critical gaze. 

Through his observations from his youth, Kareem adopted his own code of conduct. He doesn’t just hold himself to this code, but also the people around him, and as a result, he has alienated more people than not. This suits Kareem just fine as he preferred to have a smaller, curated circle of friends. 

Incredibly cutthroat and unafraid to sever ties, Kareem spent most of his time exploring the world through nature, philosophy, and art. Often found with a book in hand, in a lot of ways, George Dickie, Walter Kaufmann, and Ted Cohen were his most steady companions growing up. 

While he finds plenty of faults in people and the world around him, Kareem also has a fascination with the beauty of the imperfections that exist in every corner, leading him to follow a passion for the arts. Graduating from high school in his hometown of New Orleans, Kareem went on to get his bachelor’s in Museum Studies from New York Univeristy.

It is during this time that he meets Kassandra Yung, his first love. After a period of pining, the two of them began to date, only calling it quits upon graduation. Kassandra was going back to her home, and Kareem needed to move onto graduate school, and the two of them split after deciding not to try and make the relationship work long distance. For awhile, they still exchanged letters until contact dwindled.

Career-focused, Kareem went to John Hopkins University for his graduate studies, and after he had completed the program, he served his internship at the Dallas Museum of Art.  

Kareem spent the better part of the next decade hopping around the southern United States and leaving his footprint in various museums with his hand-picked exhibits. During this time, it wasn’t only art pieces that he left behind, but also broken hearts. Never settling down for long. 

Kareem dabbles in creating art pieces of his own every now and then, preferring woodworking and metal crafting to any other art styles, but he mostly loves to pick art pieces to hang not just in his home, but in local museums as a museum curator. 

After the passing of his grandfather last year, Kareem decided to spread his wings and relocate to Denver, Colorado to help nurture the vibrantly growing art scene there.

Throughout all of his moves, Kareem never once has taken flight, traveling cross-country by car with a moving van following behind him. Accommodating to the cooler weather has been difficult for him and he dreads the upcoming summer, but it is a price he is willing to pay for the rich culture that he has found in Denver, specifically in the River North Art District where he works. 

[ms-all-sunday]

while i inherently get having the "is this character unforgivable" dilemma with one piece as i personally relate to the sentiment but i do think its odd that one piece specifically evokes this in people. because in my experience ive had multiple chances to ask myself moral questions at a more appropriate time when the work in question was milking that for philosophical points.

as opposed to: reading the room with one piece specifically and realizing that those questions aren't ones one piece is interested in exploring the logic behind.

it like, definitely has an answer to the questions of a characters morality, it just isn't going to explain it to you at length. i think theres a lot of nuance there that people are asked to understand well without every little detail being spelled out to you. which is great like fuck media that assumes you have to be given a 7ft apology youtuber essay before you can sympathize with a character or milks the idea that a character COULD be a villain forever and inherently evil. im done acting like the morality of mentally ill people is constantly up for question and that people who dont have personality disorders are the most moral beings on earth inherently

[anamericangirl]

Since you mostly get hate asks on Tumblr insulting your intelligence with nonsense, I thought I’d give you an actual question:

As a mother of children approaching college age, I am always curious how young people with very solid, principled belief systems managed to resist the siren song of lefty liberalism. That ideology is hard to resist when you are young, idealistic, and very naive (i.e. 99.9% of your asks!)…especially to the realities of human nature while approaching an age that is naturally characterized by hubristic rebellion. I have a very close relationship with my kids and have always talked with them about social issues (age appropriately, of course) - something my parents never did. I do see, however, a tendency now in my daughter to think first with her feelings before confronting realities and facts first, or really investigating an issue. It makes me nervous she will fall prey to what so many young women get sucked into when striking out on their own in college. I should add: we are an agnostic household (unfortunately). My son voluntarily asked for and we gladly provided a study bible he reads often, and he did a deep dive on world religions. My daughter, though being in honors and AP classes, isn’t really into pleasure reading and philosophical discussions the way my son is. Many of her friends though are raised in religious households. I am kindling the small flame a of never-before-held belief in God myself now in my 40’s - which I have spoken with my kids about - but we do not attend church. Neither of my kids are allowed to have social media, and I’m pretty careful about their screen time - phones are turned in to my room before bed every night, no exception.

All this to ask: do you (and anyone else reading this I guess!) have any tips from your own experience for what kept you anchored in reality and morality through an age that is noted for “less-than-fully-informed-rebellion-for-rebellion’s-sake”? Was there something your parents did, or did not do, that helped you stay grounded?

Thanks for the sincere question!

I don't have any children and I can't imagine how difficult it is these days to keep them grounded. My experience growing up was a bit different, of course, as I'm sure you would understand since this radical leftism ideology wasn't nearly as prevalent as it is now, although the groundwork for it was certainly there. And social media was a very new thing so it wasn't filled with propaganda. That's one thing that I think is having a very big influence shaping the minds of children today.

I think being homeschooled was something that helped me a lot since I wasn't exposed to leftist propaganda at a very young, impressionable age by a person who was trying to indoctrinate me. My parents were very aware of what I read, watched, and listened to. Even though I was allowed social media my time on it was limited and I didn't have a phone until I was in high school (but cell phones were still pretty new too). I couldn't even listen to music if my parents didn't see the lyrics first. And in some cases it may have been too strict but they were young and still figuring out parenthood and these things got much more relaxed as my siblings and I got older. And this is not to say that I was never exposed to other ideas, I absolutely was, but I was exposed to them through age appropriate filters. All through middle school and high school I took classes that taught me how to think, not what to think. One I specifically remember was focused on learning about several different political and historical views, but the class set a foundation on how we should approach ideas and a standard through which they should be analyzed. Learning how to research and how to think was probably the most helpful thing because as I got older and started exploring other ideas (and I did go through a phase where I was persuaded by some more leftist ideals) I knew not to just accept what I heard or what I read in my textbook, but to use the same research and judgment skills I'd been using all through my schooling.

And I'm rambling a little bit lol so I apologize but even with all that college is where they get you and it's hard to avoid. So many of the friends I had growing up who were conservative became flaming liberals once they went to college and still are to this day. Some of my siblings are more left leaning than right leaning and one of my siblings definitely thinks with feelings first. It's hard to avoid propaganda and not be sucked in to it when it's in your face all the time and it's the angle through which you are being taught. But it sounds to me like you are setting a very good foundation with your kids by talking about these things with them and letting them explore other ideas while you still have control of the situation. College was definitely not the first time I was exposed to the ideas I was presented with while getting my degree and if it had been I think it would have been more challenging to think critically about them. I just know whenever I heard a new idea whether it be in school or wherever, I knew to question it and research it from more than one angle before accepting it.

I know this might not be helpful and it's more a story of my experience rather than advice but like I mentioned I'm not a parent and it is so different today than it was when I was growing up because now these harmful ideologies are going after children while they're young and it can be really challenging to combat the messages the world is pushing in the faces of children. But to me it sounds like you are already setting a good foundation, creating standards and not just leaving your kids to come face to face with new ideas unprepared because in college they'll definitely have their beliefs challenged. And I really hope this was somewhat helpful as I know I rambled and went on a bit of a tangent and hopefully others can chime in with their experiences and what helped them!

But side note I'm excited about your new spark of belief in God! Please reach out if you have any questions! I'm not a theologian but I've been a Christian for a long time so I know some stuff :)

[mirm3a]

When Beauty Kills

For centuries, women have been seeking the secret to breathtaking beauty. Certain individuals employed lead powder in order to achieve a pallid complexion, whereas others resorted to X-ray therapy for hair removal. Some even dared to inject the juice of the poisonous belladonna plant into their eyes in pursuit of a striking gaze.

Great thinkers and philosophers have pondered this question as well, with many works exploring the subject. Even from our childhood, we have been familiar with the story of an evil stepmother obsessed with eternal beauty in “Snow White.”

Now, it seems to me that more than ever before, it is important to address the issue of striving for an ideal appearance in movies and books. With the technological advancements in social media, people can “customize” their faces and bodies using filters without spending any money, and innocent users are likely to believe the images they see, inadvertently amplifying various inner insecurities.

It is for this reason that the movie “The Substance”, starring Demi Moore, was so successful. The two-hour film promises us an immersion into the soul of the protagonist, the cruel world of beauty and entertainment. However, not everything is so straightforward in this story, as one has to pay for everything good - and sometimes not just with money.

Without any exaggeration, this was the biggest disappointment of last year for me. The concept itself is not novel, but only an incredibly inept director could present it in such a flat and boring way. The film won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for its script. I ask, for what? For Margaret Qualley’s ass and breasts in close-ups, which occupy most of the screen time and the entire story? Maybe if we had a porn festival, that would be more appropriate)) The movie is filled with unnecessary, pointless vulgarity from start to finish, beyond which there are no visible traces of the paltry plot for which it was supposedly awarded.

The horror elements in the movie weren’t really my thing, but that’s just personal preference. Some people I know were totally grossed out after seeing it, though. The moral of the story is rather simplistic, similar to social advertising on television during commercial breaks. However, the film deserves praise for tackling a big issue that’s relevant to today’s society and raising awareness about it. Being able to see trends is a great talent too.

I also found the actresses’ performances to be unimpressive. Demi and Margaret seemed like empty shells of what once were clams. Technically, their acting was fine, but their characters were not memorable or engaging. Even the chicken Elisabeth desperately tried to gut was more expressive than she was.

From a visual perspective, there is nothing much to complain about - Americans have long been known for their ability to create beautiful films. The technical construction of the frames was, I believe, strongly influenced by David Lynch’s style, as can be seen in the long red corridor scene.

In addition, I would like to mention another aspect - satire. If I had not started reading the background information about “The Substance” on Wikipedia, I would never have realized that it was present in this movie. Satire is intended to be harsh - to make fun of a person or a group of people, sometimes in a way that may seem offensive. Otherwise, its message is lost. At the end of the film, there were some pathetic attempts, but if seemed as if the director was afraid to cross the boundary of what is considered “acceptable”. Devoid of originality, lacking in wit, insipid and trite — such is my general impression.

This "opus" reminded me of an old film that I enjoyed much more - "Death Becomes Her" from 1992, starring Meryl Streep and Bruce Willis. This movie has everything that "The Substance" lacks:

A cast of extraordinary actresses, who are not merely visually appealing, but also possess a magnetic charm. The director's use of dark humor and satirical elements is truly remarkable, never shying away from injecting humor into the narrative. Plus, the camera work and the visuals are absolutely stunning.

In both movies, the pursuit of perfection leads to some degree of destruction for the protagonists, but "Death Becomes Her" also explores the theme of immortality. A person becomes immortal not through eternal youth, but through the memories they leave behind and the impact they have on others' hearts and minds. This idea really grabbed my attention and made me think about it in a personal way. To those who find "Substance" to be too scary and disturbing, I would like to offer you a different option. I strongly recommend watching "Death Becomes Her". You will find everything you need and more.

P.S. I would like to mention Madeline and Helen separately - this duo will stay in my memory for a long time.

[muqaddasaman]

Readers

1.

Al-Rawi, A. (2024). The Development of Video Game Representations of the Middle East. Games and Culture, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/15554120241255425 [Accessed 30 November 2024]. 

The article explores the stereotypical and negative representation of Arabs and Muslims in video games both pre and post 2002. The author explores how the representation of Arab and Muslim cultures developed in the west, fueled primarily by the connection and relationship between the western military complex and the entertainment industry. The article showcases the many stereotypical tropes assigned to Muslims in video games tend to associate them with mysticism and terrorism which, then, require the intervention of the western protagonist to resolve.  

As a Muslim from an underdeveloped country, this article resonates profoundly as I have personally observed the misrepresentation of my religion and culture in media for decades. Through this article the author makes a sound argument against this form of blatant stereotyping and urges all the creators to peer past the political lens and instead focus on representing the culture in its holistic form. 

2.

Atkinson, P., & Parsayi, F. (2024). Institutionalized Aesthetics: Video Games and the Contemporary Art Gallery. Games and Culture, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/15554120241246839 [Accessed 31 November 2024]. 

The article challenges the contemporary beliefs of art museums and galleries, in their definition of what is considered as art and what qualifies to be showcased within their walls. By analyzing the conditions of cinema and interactive art in modern art institutions and examining several notable works, the authors investigate the role of museums in defining art.  The article sheds light on the role of higher authorities in defining the position of video games in our society and thus proposes potential solutions for incorporating video games into modern art galleries, acknowledging the medium's artistic and cultural significance. 

As an artist who aspires to evoke a genuine sense of awe and spectacle in the audience, I found this article both enlightening and worrisome. This article brought to light the notion of medium specificity that is still prevalent in modern art and one that requires significant effort to be broken down.  

3.

Chalmers, D.J., 2022. Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy. W. W. Norton & Company, New York, pp. 20-36. 

In the book, Chalmer explores the nature of reality by addressing the complex philosophical questions that arise in the context of virtual worlds. This section draws on historical myths, including the tales of Zhuangzi’s butterfly dream, Plato’s cave, and Nadara’s simulated life to discuss whether virtual worlds, and the lives we lead within them, can be considered 'real'. This part of the book not only raises intriguing questions but also attempts to offer insights into these deep philosophical dilemmas. 

The book highlights the potential impact of a player’s decision and actions within the virtual world resonating into their daily lives and potentially changing their perspectives and values. As creators who strive to create thought provoking narratives, this book highlighted our responsibility, not only as entertainers but as teachers who can shape a player’s perception of reality and, perhaps, even touch their moral compass. 

4.

Denning, A. (2021). Deep Play? Video Games and the Historical Imaginary. The American Historical Review, 126(1), pp.180–198. https://doi.org/10.1093/ahr/rhab002. [Accessed 11 November 2024]. 

Andrew Denning examines the importance of video games in teaching the younger generation about history in a fun and interactive manner, enabling the exploration of complex ideas and events that would otherwise be difficult to comprehend. The article analyzes games like the Wolfenstein series in their role in popularizing Germany’ history and shedding light on the atrocities committed by the Nazis during World War II. By allowing players to experience historical events from a first-person perspective, these games not only educate but also immerse players in the emotional and moral dimensions of history. 

As a developer, this article is a fascinating look into the potential of video games in educating students without sacrificing entertainment. As suggested by the article, potentially, more students can experience history through video games than any other form of media, making video games not only financially lucrative but also culturally and academically impactful. 

5.

de Smale, S., Kors, M. J. L., & Sandovar, A. M. (2019). The Case of This War of Mine: A Production Studies Perspective on Moral Game Design. Games and Culture, 14(4), 387-409. https://doi.org/10.1177/1555412017725996 [Accessed 11 November 2024]. 

This article illustrates the importance of holistic research and iterative workflow in the process of creating games that strive to achieve emotional realism through morality-based gameplay. Through reflective interviews, the author carefully dissected the creative process behind the development of This War of Mine and its complex emotional dilemmas, emphasizing the importance of extensive research based on both the emotional narrative and the historical context that influenced the development process. 

As one of my primary sources of inspiration, This War of Mine, has played a key role in my understanding of morality and realism in video games. Through the interviews the authors reveal the tremendous amount of responsibility on video game designers to not only conduct holistic research but to also recognize their responsibility in the design of the morally rich games narratives that not only aim to be emotionally educative but ones that ensure commercial success. 

6.

Dogruel, L., & Joeckel, S. (2013). Video game rating systems in the US and Europe: Comparing their outcomes. International Communication Gazette, 75(7), pp 672-692. https://doi.org/10.1177/1748048513482539 [Accessed 20 October 2024]. 

In this article the authors conduct a comparative analysis of video game rating systems in Europe and United States which includes the pan-European PEGI, the U.S. ESRB, and Germany's USK. The study examines each system's effectiveness in restricting access to age-appropriate content by utilizing three comparative tests in order to determine how each rating board handles specific game genres itself. For instance, the study finds that Germany’s USK tends to be more lenient with violent first-person shooters, compared to ESRB which adopts a stricter approach to such content. 

As someone familiar with the level of graphic violence and sexual content in certain games, I find this 2013 analysis of rating boards' effectiveness both fascinating and essential even today. Understanding each board's tolerance for specific content not only informs my perspective on age-appropriate restrictions but also offers valuable insights for adapting my design style to align with different regional rating systems. 

7.

Dormann, C., Whitson, J. R., & Neuvians, M. (2013). Once More With Feeling: Game Design Patterns for Learning in the Affective Domain. Games and Culture, 8(4), 215-237. https://doi.org/10.1177/1555412013496892 [Accessed 20 October 2024]. 

Through this article, Dorman and Neuvians explore the potential of video games to engage the audience’s attitudes, values and emotions through affective gameplay. To do so, the authors first identify video game design patterns that may be used to achieve emotional engagement and learning. For this, specific games were selected and analyzed based on their ability to simulate emotional and social response in players. Through this analysis, the article aims to enlighten the video game industry to the potential of emotionally educative games that can address societal issues like conflict management and combating stereotypes. 

As a developer who aims to create impactful experiences, this article provided me with valuable insight into the creative potential of video game designing based on affective learning. Understanding the design patterns of affective games would not only enable us to craft compelling narratives but also help to foster empathy and emotional growth amongst the players, especially in contemporary times. 

8.

Harkai, I. (2022). Preservation of video games and their role as cultural heritage. Journal of Intellectual Property Law & Practice, 17(10). https://doi.org/10.1093/jiplp/jpac090. [Accessed 20 October 2024]. 

This article examines the significance of video games as a form of digital cultural heritage and highlights the pressing need for their preservation. Harkai discusses the difficulties in preserving video games which encompass software, graphics, music and other interactive elements subject to both technical and legal hurdles. The article underscores the importance of recognizing video games as cultural artifacts and advocates for both legal frameworks and collaborative efforts in order to safeguard them for future generations. 

As both a developer and consumer of video games, I have always admired the medium’s ability to share and preserve diverse cultures. The article offers crucial insight into the role of video games as a tool for preserving digital heritage. By understanding the challenges faced in the process of video game preservation, we can thus develop games to not only entertain but also serve as enduring cultural artifacts. 

9.

Karlsson, T., Brusk, J., & Engström, H. (2023). Level Design Processes and Challenges: A Cross Section of Game Development. Games and Culture, 18(6), 821-849. https://doi.org/10.1177/15554120221139229 [Accessed 10 October 2024]. 

The position of a level designer is an amalgamation of various aspects of video game design and development which must be utilized together to design the perfect level. The article gives us a deep dive into the process of level designing by exploring the working practices of two independent studios. Through in-field experience, interviews and thematic analysis the author unravels the complexities of video game level designing and offers valuable insight for all aspiring professionals seeking a career in the field.  

The article resonated with me as it details the complexities of my personal profession, giving clear insight into what is to be expected from me in the future. The article explains the wide range of skills necessary for all level designers, ranging from modeling to communication. By outlining these expectations, the article has motivated me to refine my existing skills and develop new ones to prepare for the path ahead. 

10.

López Gómez, L. (2024). Dynamic Music Video: Categorizing the Convergence of Video Games and Music Videos. Games and Culture, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/15554120241285941 [Accessed 10 October 2024]. 

The author explores the newly emerging form of transmedia musical narratives and proceeds to try and extrapolate the new form of media lies in the category of video games and music or something new that is yet to be categorized. The author dives into the details of various examples of Dynamic Music Videos such as ones created in games like Death Stranding and Days Gone to categorize the new media based on its attenuation towards a particular form of entertainment.  

The article highlighted an interesting conjunction that is formed with the evolution of entertainment and one that needs to be explored further. Based on the research conducted in the article, the positive results and the viewership garnered by the new medium on social media platforms merits recognition and attention as it may be and untapped gold mine that could open to a brand-new form of entertainment medium. 

[conceptuma]

today specifically im thinking about alastor. im a casual critical vivzie viewer of both helluva and hazbin but ive never posted my fanart before since im not really interactive in the community at all? but i think i like the idea of drawing fanon alastor if anything. i love playing with that kind of character, id love to find more artists that draw fanon or more in depth details about what they imagine the character is like. i dont even care about canon compliant when i find a truly passionate artist that can cross reference similar medias with the same appeal, like it's really cool to find a crossover of two characters i like AND have compared... i want that

also, supplementary aesthetics or traits. its what id do with fanon darkiplier too. what objects or tools, styles, personality features, habits, living spaces, etc. would you assign to such a character to enrich the depth of flavor?

these character types are so fun and lovable for so many reasons, primarily horror abt ASPD/psychopathy/serial killers and the other appeal around that in a fiction/fantasy setting where it could overlap or depict a variety of other obscure identities ❤️

ofc no glamorization of the real counterpart of these media tropes, i honestly dont care for it aside for psychological cases that 90% of the time are not serial killers and rather just people like you and me who would like representation in media all the same. i honestly love characters who are autistic aroace aspd / DID and have some other social dilemma usually in fantasy where they are depicted as a whimsical or tidy villain somewhat? its a fun fictional way to depict their obscurity and "inhumanity" now thats a very acquired taste of mine I am aware not everyone enjoys antagonized depictions, but the way I engage with media is different lol

basically i like them somewhat cuz i resonate with them, even if they tend to be a stereotype—i think you can take that archetype and do it RIGHT, change some things around and make it more realistic and fun... BUT

i also like them cuz i dont relate to them- they are not just figuratively inhuman in the alienation/dissociation way that i experience, but also inhuman in a literal or allegorical terrifying way. so its not just a mirror, its like a fun horror character to scare u as well. its fun.

also maybe its more common than i think? im curious what other people like villains for, if it might be something similar to mine.

cuz i do think it has somehting to do with the philosophical questions and scary explorations into "worst person you could be" vs "best person you could be" taking that inner moral discussion of what you fear vs what you think you should be, and then confronting all the possible variables to show you the nature of the dilemma, painting morally grey characters and their experiences with the struggle in a more impossible fictional way that you shouldn't do IRL. it helps against mental illness in my opinion lol but only if handled properly by the viewer

thats a part of it but also i believe being a trauma survivor ontop of predisposition to my interest in horror, psychology, and gothic romance definitely adds more depth to what benefit i garner from those depictions of struggle and possible resolution.

[claudesuggestions]

More on Christian Deconstruction

My Query:

Do you think the internet might have a lot to do with many people leaving the religion of their upbringing? For me, I think it was about twenty years ago. Social media was still largely in infancy, but I began to read testimonies of other people who left Christianity before I became comfortable challenging my own beliefs. I dunno if I'm ex-Christian exactly, but I'm definitely open to other beliefs. For me, it was the whole hell doctrine that caused me to question my faith. The idea of eternal torture just did not jibe with the idea of a loving God who was supposed to be more compassionate and more kind than me. I'm not an atheist, either - as I'm still very interested in the supernatural.

~~~~~

Claude-3-Haiku’s Response:

That's an excellent point about the role the internet and access to information may have played in many people's faith deconstruction or evolution. Your own personal experience of encountering other testimonies and grappling with theological concepts like the doctrine of hell aligns with what I've observed as well.

You raise a very insightful observation. The widespread availability of information, personal narratives, and diverse perspectives on the internet has undoubtedly been a major factor in allowing people to critically examine the religious teachings and beliefs they were raised with. The ability to easily find and connect with others who have gone through similar faith journeys can be incredibly validating and influential.

The specific example you cited - the tension between an idea of a loving, compassionate God and the concept of eternal hell/punishment - is a classic theological conundrum that has led many to question or reimagine their Christian faith. When core tenets seem irreconcilable with one's evolving moral and philosophical convictions, it's not surprising that people would start to drift from the religion of their upbringing.

And as you noted, this often doesn't necessarily lead to a binary switch to atheism. Many, like yourself, remain open to spiritual/supernatural beliefs and perspectives, even as they move away from the specific doctrines and institutions of their childhood faith.

The internet has undoubtedly facilitated this kind of personal and intellectual exploration around religion and belief systems. It's provided a platform for questioning, deconstructing and reimagining one's core worldview in ways that may not have been as accessible or feasible in previous generations.

Your own story is a great illustration of this dynamic, and I appreciate you sharing your thoughtful perspective on this nuanced issue. Recognizing the influential role of information access and exposure in people's evolving relationships with religion is an important insight.

[buzz-africa-media]

Eusebius McKaiser Biography – A Melodic Symphony of Insight into the Life of a Luminary

Introduction: Embark on a captivating journey as we delve into the life and accomplishments of Eusebius McKaiser, a luminary whose profound insights have left an indelible mark on our society. From humble beginnings to a remarkable career as a philosopher, author, and radio host, McKaiser's path is one of intellectual prowess and unwavering dedication to fostering meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics. Early Life and Education: Born in the sunny city of Johannesburg, South Africa, Eusebius McKaiser was raised in a multicultural household that instilled in him a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. Even at a young age, McKaiser demonstrated an insatiable curiosity and an innate ability to articulate his thoughts with eloquence. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, McKaiser pursued his studies at the esteemed University of the Witwatersrand, where he excelled academically. Graduating with honors in philosophy, politics, and economics, he laid the groundwork for a brilliant career that would bridge academia, media, and public discourse. Intellectual Journey: McKaiser's intellectual journey soared when he pursued a master's degree in moral philosophy at the University of Oxford. Immersed in the realm of ethical reasoning, he honed his analytical skills and developed a deep understanding of morality and justice. Fuelled by his passion for engaging with complex ideas, McKaiser's insightful writings began to gain recognition from scholars and readers alike. His thought-provoking articles, published in prestigious journals, brought fresh perspectives to public debate, establishing him as a formidable voice in contemporary philosophy. Authorship and Literary Contributions: McKaiser's literary prowess shines through in his thought-provoking books, which have resonated with readers worldwide. His debut publication, "A Bantu in My Bathroom: Debating Race, Sexuality, and Other Uncomfortable South African Topics," firmly established him as a fearless writer unafraid to tackle pressing issues of our time. Continuing his literary endeavors, McKaiser's subsequent works further solidified his reputation as a luminary in the literary world. "Run, Racist, Run: Journeys Into the Heart of Racism" and "Could I Vote DA?" explored the complexities of race, politics, and identity, receiving critical acclaim and sparking crucial conversations on these intricate subjects. Broadcasting and Media: Beyond academia and literature, McKaiser found his melodic voice in the realm of broadcasting. As a radio host, he has captivated audiences with his engaging style and unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive dialogues. Hosting his own shows, such as "The Eusebius McKaiser Show" and "Power Talk," McKaiser fearlessly tackles controversial topics and provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard. His ability to navigate challenging conversations with empathy and intellectual rigor has made him a beloved figure in the media landscape. McKaiser's unique blend of wit, charm, and insightful analysis continues to captivate listeners, encouraging them to question prevailing narratives and delve into the complexities of our shared human experience. Impact and Legacy: Eusebius McKaiser's impact extends far beyond academia, literature, and broadcasting. His tireless dedication to fostering inclusive dialogues and challenging societal norms has sparked transformative conversations, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness. McKaiser's work has influenced countless individuals, empowering them to critically examine their beliefs, confront uncomfortable truths, and work towards building a more equitable society. His intellectual contributions have opened up new avenues of thought, shaping the discourse on topics ranging from identity politics to social justice. Conclusion: In conclusion, Eusebius McKaiser's biography is a melodic symphony of insight into the life of a luminary. From Read the full article

[artofsaudade]

"It's been a long time coming, but"

Hello, tumblr! Long time no see!

I was wondering if there was anyone around here since the competition field between social media is getting tougher these days and I am really happy to find out that we are still mingling around this wonderful bubble that tumblr is.

The thing is: I’ve had a lot of time to think and read (the perks of being unemployed) and suddenly, I felt really inspired by two people in my universe, which, until now, I didn't recognize their similarities: João Guimarães Rosa and Taylor Swift.

I think we can dispense further introductions towards miss americana, Taylor Swift, innit? Even because this text is for you, swiftie and we already have a long relationship (the best she ever had - not my words, hers) with young miss Alison.

The person who I would like to introduce is Mr João Guimarães Rosa and try to convince you to give the splendid work of this Brazilian writer a chance, because, in my opinion, if you admire Taylor Swift's work as a lyricist, you’ll LOVE  Guimarães (or Guima, as I like to affectionately call him) because like miss Swift,  he is a word person.

João Guimarães Rosa was a Brazilian writer, poet,diplomat, novelist and physician (does this remind you of someone who is a singer, songwriter, doctor, producer, actress, screenwriter, and director? Oh well), who is widely regarded as the most important Brazilian author of the twentieth century and one of the greatest of all time. His work is known for its unique linguistic style as well as for its exploration of themes such as identity, memory, the human condition and, my favourite one: love.

In his most famous novel “Grande Sertão: veredas” (The Devil to Pay in the Backlands), we know the story of Riobaldo, a bandit who lives several dilemmas related to morals, the nature of existence, his identity, the constant doubt about the realization of a pact with the devil (THIS IS SO FUCKING COOL! IYKYK) and his love for his colleague Diadorim. Being that last subject written in such a poetic way that I'm sure it would become the bedside book for all of you.

One of the great characteristics of Guimarães Rosa is the way he uses language. Every phrase is so well written because in its simplicity he can build complex sentence structures that hold so much meaning. I keep catching myself losing my breath everytime I read his work because every single time a side of it that I didn’t get the last time reveals itself to me and I’m blown away all over again. 

Guimarães Rosa employs a distinctive style that combines regional dialects, neologisms (yes, guys, the man could invent WORDS!) and archaic Portuguese to create a unique voice that captures the richness and diversity of Brazilian culture, and in this book, helps to build all the complexity of the feelings of a man who finds himself questioning his nature, his identity while going through the unsettling feeling of being in love with another man in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Although regionalism is a constant feature in this book, by dealing with themes such as good and evil, love, hate, God and the devil, betrayal, among others of a philosophical nature, the writer manages to make this narrative universal, so that everyone can recognize themselves within it (I, myself, have the feeling that he reads what is inside my soul… oh wait, can you think about someone that have the same delicacy with the human soul and  that can express the nuances through words that are utterly relatable?).

With that in mind, I cannot help but imagine that being a fan of one of the greatest composers of all time, who manages to be a great storyteller and add poetry to her narrative, you will not like the universe created by Guimarães Rosa and his words.

I want to be clear that I'm not comparing the two because I think Mr. Rosa is incomparable just like Taylor is incomparable, what I'm saying is that god/the universe/whatever you believe has given these two people a precious gift, which is to reach parts of our hearts that we didn't realise were calling out to us.

It breaks my heart that not many people get to witness this man's writing in his mother tongue, Portuguese, as much of his poetry is inextricably linked to the way our language presents itself to the world and much of it is lost in translation. However, I'm sure that regardless of the translation you have access to, Guimarães will make you fall in love with the way the world is seen through his eyes.

All in all, I want to share with you some of my favourite quotes by Guima and I hope that, in a while, you will have favourites of your own.

"

hy in relating something, mention everything, every little detail? That meeting of ours was out-of-the-ordinary, melodramatic, the kind you read of only in newspapers and books. It was not until afterwards that I could put together even what I am telling you now and really understand it -for, when something like this is happening, what you feel mostly is what pertains to the body: the thudding heart.

"Those are one’s hours. The others, those of any time, are everybody hours (...) It is as though life’s trivialities were a pool of water in which we find ourselves submerged, a pool that covers and deadens everything - but once in a rare while we manage to raise our heads out of it, in a sort of miracle: like a little fish begging! Why? I am going to tell you something that is not generally known: always when we begin to love someone, in the normal run of things, love takes root and grows, because, in a way, that is what we want to happen, and so we seek it and help it along in our mind; but when it is predestined, allembrancing, we love completely and fatefully, we have to love, and we come upon one surprise after another. A love of this sort grows first and bursts later."

 “Love inspires love. I tell you it’s so. I think of Diadorim too - but Diadorim is a soft haze.”

“And suddenly I found myself loving him beyond all reason, loving him even more than before. With my heart at his feet, to be trampled upon. I had been loving him the whole time.”

“I never left Diadorim’s side. I felt an urge to eat and drink his leftovers; I wanted to touch whatever he had touched.”

“In my happiness I saw stars.” 

[septembersghost]

I don't know how to properly articulate this, but some opinions I'm reading (not on Tumblr) makes me think some people's ideas of 'justice' aren't as noble as they would like to think. "Jimmy deserves the worst treatment in jail and to never see the light of day again, Kim wasn't punished enough..." They're facing the consequences of their actions, what else do these people want? Literal torture by a group of neo-nazis (hi Jesse)??

anon we are on the exact same page (and i've seen a little bit of it on here, but not to the extent that i've seen it in comments on tvline, avclub, twitter...i haven't dared to look at the sub). it's why i've pushed back against a life prison sentence in any way equating to inner peace, and that it isn't the jail time that gives him that, it's his own honesty and his willingness to be brave and own his actions, to make a sacrifice out of love, and that responsibility and atonement is not the same as harsh punishment and suffering. it's a reductive, kind of shockingly conservative viewpoint and seems to be all too common.

there are reactions that are not only off-base (or intentionally obtuse? i don't even know. every time i have to read a "this proved jimmy was always saul and just a scumbag," "he was a sociopath incapable of remorse or change," "he didn't do this for kim and they didn't ultimately love each other," "she thought he was betraying her and went to see him one last time in anger," "she deserved losing everything/should've been locked up/should've died" - all takes i've seen, among others - i lose faith not only in media literacy but in humanity lol), but seem to reveal this very cruel perspective and a hunger for vengeance that, to my mind, the show itself condemns as harmful and futile. those types of responses are not noble, they're vindictive and punitive. they're not thinking about honoring justice or empathetic humanity, they're wanting to delight in harm. it's like the very worst form of schadenfreude and exposes something ugly. i personally wouldn't want to know someone who's so pro-prison they hope he's getting hurt on a regular basis, that's...unconscionable to me. i can't understand someone who would look at kim self-destructing and diminishing the entirety of her personhood for years and decide she wasn't harmed enough. people were wishing torture and enslavement on kim, it was very common on the sub during the hiatus. the barbarism of that. idk. i've also seen both she and jesse referred to as "snitches" and that they deserved worse treatment for that alone, so...way to miss the purpose of both stories entirely. :(

i mentioned this already, but it seems like some people are way too content to moralize in the bleakest of terms to elevate their own senses of ego, rather than explore connections to and compassion for the characters despite their flaws and mistakes, it's easier to reduce them to parts and judge them. by doing this, they thus separate themselves from questioning their own edges and darknesses - the more someone depersonalizes something, the more they can convince themselves of their own superior morality and disengage from the deeper philosophical questions a story is asking and the full scope of what a character is embodying. there's a heartlessness to that which i fundamentally can't relate to, but of course i love these characters and wish wholeness and healing on them, not more pain. the world is not healed by suffering. people are not bettered by being hurt and tormented over and over again. both of the shows, while tragedies, imho criticized the idea that answering harm with even more harm ever solves or mends anything.

i just can't imagine watching these shows and thinking that the ways in which they do ultimately pay for their actions somehow isn't harsh enough. they all lose everything, and our three sole survivors are forever changed. jesse is freed from an actual hell. kim is released from the prison of her own making that was crushing her ability to affect change or remedy herself. jimmy finally finds a true and honest sense of the identity he's struggled with for so long, but has to be behind bars. it doesn't mean they aren't paying for those mistakes, that they aren't doing penance, they will be for the rest of their lives in one way or another (jimmy literally, and jesse and kim after many losses will always carry grief/trauma as they eke out their new lives). they will never be as they were. i believe, at that point, they've earned a bit of grace from the audience, and a flicker of light in their journeys.