#on history literature cinema and romance

[ineffable-opinions]

BL: Romancing in a Bubble?

As always, please let me know if you have suggestions, critiques, comments or corrections.

I will only be discussing BL broadly (here I use BL as an umbrella term) and not just live action. I don’t want to club together BL and GL since in spite of their shared roots they are very different in their genre conventions, target demographics, and history. Also, I am not very familiar with it.

I consider BL a genre in itself – practically well as the way Masala is a cinema genre.

Please check the content/trigger warnings before diving into the works I have mentioned below. Feel free to message or ask.

BL / romance

I don’t think BL is romance or even a sub-genre of romance. A lot of BL is romance. Many more of them have at least a romantic side to them. There is enough overlap between those genres to give the impression that BL is romance. (I remember the discussion Killing Stalking had prompted.)

But there are plenty of BL devoid of romance. Like One Room Angel, Social Reform Season, and The Orc Bride. Similarly, BL is not exactly a porn sub-genre even though there are plenty of ero-BL.

Also, there are plenty of BL where romance takes backseat such as The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window, Blue Morning, Brother, Lawless Gangster and Thousand Autumns.

BL / queer

Queer – Can I call it a genre the way I call BL a genre? Even if one were to ignore queer as method in academia, it is still so complex.

Let me quote Taiwanese tongzhi (queer) author Chiang-Sheng Kuo:

[W]hat exactly is queer literature? Is it queer literature if queer people like to read it, or is it only queer literature if there are queer characters in the books? Or is it an appendage of the queer movement? If a queer author writes a book without queer characters, does that represent a certain aspect of queer culture?

(You can find the whole interview here.)

I think the problem persist even when I think of queer as a label.

Then there is the issue with conception of “queerness” itself. Like, in a way it is a limiting term. Is it fair to call normative or customary male-male erotic practices such as masti and Launda Naach, “queer” just because that’s how it is perceived elsewhere now?

To quote what Kaustav Bakshi wrote in Writing the LGBTIHQ+ movement in Bangla:

In the last decade, the question of decolonizing queer epistemologies was being raised periodically, whereby queer politics, despite having a shared agenda of toppling heteronormativity, and queer culture, albeit having a shared aesthetics, became more and more regionalist – not in a negative sense – but, with implications of difference, which can be interpreted and understood only when one subjectively experiences the ‘region’ with respect to gender, class, caste, ethnicity, physical and intellectual ability, access to education, metropolitan cultures, and most importantly, the internet.

[T]he attraction towards the launda is not understood as ‘queer’ – non-normative or out of the ordinary – but, as an integral part of sexual life, which is not always compulsively alert to the heterosexual-homosexual binary.

Imo, decolonizing queer epistemologies comes in handy when discussing BL since there are plenty of BL dealing with:

Historical BL set in eras and locations that had customary male-male sexualities and practices.

BL with special settings, like omegaverse, with different (if any) idea of queerness.

BL / other queer content

Just as Japan has gei-comi, and other manga like Shoujo Manga Artist Minamoto-San Comes Out, and Kieta Hatsukoi (shoujo), What Did You Eat Yesterday and My Brother's Husband (seinen) beside BL manga, different countries offer diversity in queer content with noticeable overlap. But clubbing them together would not be easy. Moreover, this diversity is as much cross-sectional as it is temporal (tanbi, JUNE, shonen ai, yaoi, BL in Japan).

BL the main difference between BL and other queer genres is BL’s focus on moe (affect). Anyway, BL predates LGBTQ+ acronym. It predates de-pathologization of homosexuality in many BL creating regions. Fu-people (BL fans) were creating BL before mainstream media started representing queer people in media. Fu-people battled state and its censors everywhere along with queer people. Live action BL is commercialized and we get mostly feel-good content. But that is capitalism (and the State) reaping the dividends of decades of fu-people’s labor of love.

I wonder if it is apt to consider BL the way western queer shows (such Verbotene Liebe, Queer as Folks, Os Nossos Dias and SKAM) as benchmark when discussing BL? Won’t it be better to evaluate consider BL in relation to local non-BL queer content in BL producing countries? But then, there are BL inspired by western queer culture such as Partners by Tamaki Yura.

Here are three gei-comi that I recommend for BL audience, through which they can get an insight into non-BL queer manga from Japan (created with androphilic men as target audience) :

Fire Code by Ichikawa Kazuhide

Fisherman's Lodge by Gengoroh Tagame

Coming Home by Go Fujimoto

Here is my BL versus gei-comi list which I think highlights their differences and similarities (I have included only Gengoroh Tagame’s works since they are probably the easiest to access/buy/borrow):

Do You Remember South Island P.O.W. Camp? by Gengoroh Tagame || Hitori de Yoru wa Koerarenai by Matsumoto Yoh

Arena by Gengoroh Tagame || Jinx by Mingwa

Cretian Cow by Gengoroh Tagame || The Orc Bride by Madobuchiya (Nishin)

Uo to Mizu by Gengoroh Tagame || Terpenoid by Okadaya Tetuzoh

My Brother's Husband by Gengoroh Tagame || The Story of My Brother by Ike Reibun

There is lot of overlap between BL and gei-comi. Gengoroh Tagame first published in JUNE (a magazine that contributed to BL we know now). There are magazines and anthologies (Nikutaiha BL) that offer crossover between different streams of queer content.

Similarly, there are danmei (Chinese BL) novel written by queer men such as the autobiographical works: Six Records of a Floating Life and Waiting Until 35 Years Old by NanKang BaiQi and Bei Cheng Tian Jie (北城天街) by FeiTian YeXiang.

BL / Queerness - exploration and conflict

Here are some live action BL (I’m not including some of the more famous ones like TharnType and Wedding Plan) where plot is rooted in character’s queerness and its exploration or implications:

Lan Yu – first danmei to get live action adaptation. The central conflict is rooted in the queerness of its characters, particularly Chen HanDong.

A Round Trip to Love and Irresistible Love – based on danmei by Lan Lin. These are part of a shared universe. The former has both ‘coming out’ (Cheng Yichen) and ‘leaving home’ (Lu Feng). In the latter, all the conflict is rooted in compulsory heterosexuality and we get the perspective of not only an amphiphilic (bisexual) man (Xie Yan) but also an amphiphilic woman (Xia Jun) of the same social class.

Boys Love: The Movie

No Touching At All (2014)

Udagawachou de Matteteyo (2015)

The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese

Sing in Love (2022) – Queerness is part of the main conflict.

Mood Indigo

Life: Senjou no Bokura

Light on Me

I don’t keep track of these things usually, so this is based off memory.

In Japan, most BL has dealt with the struggles of being queer in a largely heterosexist society since the days of tanbi and shonen-ai (such as Zankoku Na Kami Ga Shihai Suru by Hagio Moto). JUNE gained notoriety for focusing on it and yaoi boom was movement away from that. Then yaoi gained notoriety for existing in a bubble. When BL started to treat heterosexism in society as a part of the narrative, it garnered praise for being ‘transformative’.

BL has managed to carry within it different modes of identity and queerness.

Take Okane ga Nai (No Money) by Hitoyo Shinozaki and Toru Kousaka for example.

It is often held up as the epitome of all that is wrong with BL (or yaoi as anglophone fandom calls it). What’s less talked about is the main character, Ayase Yukiya’s queer angst and his exploration of identity that spans several volumes of the manga series. Kano on the other hand doesn’t struggle with his identity at all since his attraction to Ayase is driven by a very strong, initially unreciprocated emotional connection dependency (formed when his father died and he was at his lowest). For him, sexuality is merely a form of expression of his attraction for Ayase. Therefore, it does not inform his identity in anyway.

Within cannon, Someya and Honda’s pairing offer contrast to Ayase and Kano’s pairing. In a way, Kano and Someya have post-queer and pre-queer identities, respectively. Someya is a self-actualized person who mentors other queer characters (club staff, Ayase, Honda, Kano). There is a lot of give and take that happens between Ayase and all the queer people he meets at Someya’s club. Ayase's and Honda’s struggles with identity and sexuality are juxtaposed with Kano's and Someya's self-assured disposition.

That is also why I don’t think I Told Sunset About You stands out much. It can easily fit into the BL fold because there are plenty of BL that approached the same theme as I Told Sunset About You in a similar fashion (including these live action BL: His - Koisuru Tsumori Nante Nakatta, Life: Senjou no Bokura and The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese).  

I recommend the danmei novel Sissy by Shui QianCheng, the author of the works Beloved Enemy, My Stand-In and Meet You at the Blossom are based on, for a more detailed exploration of heterosexism, including femmephobia and homophobia.

Sissy, Beloved Enemy and Professional Body Double (the novel My Stand-in is based on) are all part of 188 group (a shared universe of novels).

There are plenty of other BL from other region that are focus on themes such as heterosexism and compulsory heterosexuality. Here is such a one-shot: Romantic by Motoni Modoru (part of the anthology Tanbishugi).

BL / terms

I like BL and associated terms like danmei because of the culture and the history associated with those terms. Tanbi and danmei are different readings of same characters 耽美 but they represent very different things. Shonen-ai literally translate to boy(s) love but that term (or BRM (boys’ romantic manga) as Emiko Nozawa puts it) carries within it so much history and specific artistic styles and sensibilities. Waai is derived from yaoi/yuri but there are fu-cultural processes, very different from that of yaoi creation, behind the production of Y-novels. I learned a lot from exploring these words alone.

[justasecretflower]

~ Sdv men watching sappy romance movies with you~🪻

Incl- Alex, shane, Harvey, Sam, Sebastian, Elliot, wizard, Gunther, willy.

Alex

The Notebook

He is definitely the type to be like 'I'm not gonna cry I'm a man' and ends up sobbing

he's quietly crying though, looking away and wiping his eyes

At the end he shrugs it off and goes like 'yeah that wasn't even sad..' he says while his voice is still shaky💀

He prefers this over horror movies though, that we'll get into next post...

Shane

Titanic

I believe he wouldn't cry

he wasn't sad or happy he was angry

the whole movie.

I am a firm believer he makes fun of characters in movies from romances to horror.

He's also one of those people that wouldn't shut up about how jack 100% could've also fit on that door.

If he sees you crying, though, he'd chuckle and wipe your tears with his thumb and tell you there's nothing to cry about.

He'd definitely laugh at you secretly, not in a mean way, just teasing.

I think his favorite genre is horror and says all the time how much he hates sappy romances, but since he's got a soft spot for you he'll watch them

Harvey

five feet apart

I think he would enjoy these movies a lot.

he's got an appreciation for all good cinema.

as a doctor he get's a little emotional thinking about his patients ever going through a thing like staying away from the person they love the most, so he does get a little misty.

If you cry, he holds you, and kisses your cheek.

he doesn't believe he's too 'manly' to watch romance, nor does he find it annoying.

I feel like most of your chill dates would revolve around watching a romance movie at home on the couch.

Sam

500 days of summer

he's in and out of this experience so he wouldn't cry

he tries to pay attention for you he really does but sometimes he just finds himself staring at you instead of watching the movie.

he prefers dates where he's actively doing stuff so he can pay attention better, sitting still for a long time is not his forte.

but if you're team Todd, he's team Todd, if you're team summer, he's team summer, you're mad? so is he, you're crying? He is too, and he doesn't even know why.

sebastian

Brokeback mountain

He's kind of just there

I don't think he's super crazy into it and crying, but I also don't think he's distracted 24/7.

he get's a little melancholy, and likes the general feel of the movie.

he likes laying on your lap while you watch the movie, pls play with his hair.

I think he likes it, isn't super into romance, likes sci-fi, horrors, but he appreciates the movie.

Elliot

Romeo and Juliet

he doesn't care if he's soft he's crying at the end and babbling on about the beauty and tragedy of their love story

definitely the type to pause at every scene, translate what they're saying, go in depth about what each thing in the scene symbolizes, ect.

he honestly is a lil annoying to watch a movie with.

if you cry with him he'll hold you and you'll cry together.

90% of you guys watching the movie was him going in depth about what everything meant and everything they said.

rasmodius m wizard

The Phantom of the Opera

he doesn't cry, but he enjoys the art of the story.

it becomes a favorite of his. Saying that, he doesn't watch movies and hasn't ever, really.

he's been busy doing wizard stuff. Whatever that is

he deeply enjoys the tragedy, the heartbreak, the beauty and depth of the story. If anything he'd also enjoy Romeo and Juliet

If you cry, he'll kiss your tears away and run his hands up your arm.

Gunther

The great Gatsby (more of a tragedy...)

He likes to watch historically set movies and documentaries

he's not huge on romance but will watch whatever you watch, just to be close with you.

he has you between his legs with your back on his torso and your head resting in his neck kind of

definitely not his cup of tea but he learns how to semi like it, since it is a great piece of cinema and extremely well written literature.

when he was younger he def was a history and literature kid so he read the book when he was younger.

willy

10 things I hate about you

how did you even convince him to sit down and watch a romance?..

he would hate on romance and how sappy it is

you'd practically have to drag him to the couch.

"Im not the romance type of man darlin"

he would half be watching and half cleaning some of his fishing rods

he is such a Kat stan

don't tell me otherwise

enjoys it but acts like he doesn't

"That was a waste of an hour.."

you will find him watching it later and chuckling.

If u wanna request Sdv use the “🪻” in your request💕

tags

[alovelywaytospendanevening]

The mythical romance of Jean Cocteau and Jean Marais

Jean Cocteau is still cited by students of literature and cinema as one of the most enigmatic pioneers of the 20th century, known for his poetry as well as his poetic films such as Orpheus. His works are an indispensable part of the history of queer cinema, especially due to his brave stance on his own homosexuality and the subtextual commentary against the heteronormative society of that time. Over the course of his life, Cocteau had affairs with many notable figures such as the French novelist Raymond Radigue and the boxer Panama Al Brown among others. However, the highlight of his romantic life was his relationship with actor Jean Marais who maintained a productive creative partnership with Cocteau while also being in love. Together, they were described as the “first modern gay couple”. Their relationship was extremely passionate and intense, with Cocteau recognising the opportunity to cast Marais in his own cinematic projects. Marais starred in most of Cocteau’s most well-known projects, including Beauty and the Beast as well as Orpheus. The filmmaker claimed that Marais’ performance in the latter “illuminates the film for me with his soul”. Indeed, Marais came to be known as Cocteau’s muse who had been heavily dependent on opium for artistic inspiration until then. They are an enduring symbol of gay pride because they made the conscious decision of staying in a Nazi-occupied Paris despite the fascists’ position on homosexuality. Cocteau and Marais were openly gay and were lampooned in the Nazi media for this. The actor even went as far as to claim that he was rejected by the Resistance in France for being gay when he expressed his desire to sign up and fight against the Nazis. Marais outlived Cocteau since the literary icon passed away in 1963 after suffering a heart attack. The actor maintained that Cocteau had been the love of his life and wished that he had found him sooner. “I stay with you” is embedded in Cocteau’s gravestone which is probably a message to the future generations about his artistic influence as well as a private reassurance to Marais. (Full article)

[alightinthelantern]

I want friends to talk about poetry and literature with (also art history, cinema, and music if shared interests). I love contemporary poetry and modern literary literature, but I'm not a fan of genre literature or classical poetry, so capital-R Romantics, Medievalists, and people who only read fantasy/sci-fi, romance, or mysteries aren't really what I gel with, no offense.

My favorite poet is Ruth Stone, and other favorites include Natalie Diaz, Sherman Alexie, Stephen Dunn, Wanda Coleman, Nicole Cooley, Lucille Clifton, Ellen Bryant Voigt, Jack Gilbert, Martin Espada, and more. I'm not big on Mary Oliver, and I hate Rimbaud and Neruda.

My favorite prose books are "Inland" (Tea Obreht), "Temporary People" (Deepak Unnikrishnan), "Insurrecto" (Gina Apostol), "A Constellation of Vital Phenomena" (Anthony Marra), and "The Collected Short Stories of Wallace Stegner".

My favorite movies include "Brief Encounter" (1945, David Lean), "Days of Heaven" (1978, Terrence Malick), "Mirror" (1975, Andrei Tarkovksy), "An Unfinished Piece for Mechanical Piano" (1977, Nikita Mikhalkov), "The Lion in Winter" (1968, Anthony Harvey), and more.

I run a poetry blog, @abellinthecupboard, where you can see the kind of poetry I read and share.

I also write my own poetry, and I've been professionally published a few times in small-time journals now, so I'm decent at it. I'd love it if I could get someone to give feedback on what I write occasionally.

I'm old so I only want to chat with people who are at least 21, no minors.

If anyone is interested, please like or reblog this post and I'll check out your blog. You can also ping me on Discord @/beltanebugle

[livingfictionsystem]

Get to Know The Alters: Xanthe Zeitstück

Origin:

Inworld Germany, then inworld Victorian England---First a fictional character who died in their own story and became a ghost, then an alchemical Frankenstein'd creation. Began fronting in late outerworld 2012. Was created as a clinical Narcissist to counter our abuser's NPD and borrowed traits of Howl Pendragon, Captain Jack Sparrow, and Magnus Bane for a personality. Believed for a long time that it was actually a Victorian ghost that was possessing the body of someone who had already passed.

General interests:

Literature, queer history, Oscar Wilde, culture, psychology, sociology, travel, fashion/aesthetic, fiction.

Music taste:

Shayfer James, Sarah and the Safe Word, Starset, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Charming Disaster, Randall Shreve, Queen, Cinema Bizarre.

Food taste:

Sushi, scallops, and curries.

Favorite shows:

Are You Being Served?, Black Books, Vicious, Peaky Blinders, Fawlty Towers, Darkwing Duck, Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, Shadow and Bone.

Dating:

A long history of dating non-binary Virgos, Kaspar being one of them since early 2016. Strictly polyamorous. Was married to Seran and Visarden of the same collective, but Seran broke up with them and Visarden has vanished, presumed deceased. Now considered widowed; has had little interest in romance since, though occasional 'situationships' arise.

Aesthetic:

Jewel tones. Blue, gold, and blacks. Silks and ruffles, chiefly Victorian-inspired, ranging anywhere from dandyism, to fop, to a gothic vampire sort. Top hats, canes, and frocks.

Favorite films:

Grand Budapest Hotel, The Great Gatsby (2013), Wilde, The Happy Prince, V for Vendetta, Pirates of the Caribbean, Treasure Planet.

Favorite Books/Writers:

Oscar Wilde (Particularly the Picture of Dorian Gray), Leigh Bardugo (Six of Crows), V.E. Schwab, Libba Bray, Neil Gaiman, Gail Carriger, Anne Rice.

Drink taste:

Gin with floral flavors such as rose and lavender, champagne, cognac. Non-Alcoholic includes floral and/or spiced black teas.

Dream Job:

Professional author and book critic.

[psalm22-6]

Source: The Universal Weekly, 2 January 1926 Full article beneath the cut 

UNIVERSAL’S recently purchased French  super, “Les Miserables,” had its first presentation a few weeks ago at the  Empire, Avenue Wagram, Paris, creating one of the most outstanding sensations ever recorded in Continental film circles, Universal reports. The entire European trade and lay press thundered in praise of the masterly interpretation accorded the Victor Hugo classic by its producers, Les Films de France (Societe des Cineromans), according to advices just received at the Universal home office. Immense crowds endeavored to force their way inside the theatre to see the production, more than one thousand persons being turned away from the Empire, one of the largest houses in the French capital. Representatives of French society, officialdom, the press, clergy, stage, screen and laity were present to do honor to what is regarded as one of the greatest pictures ever made. “ ‘Les Miserables,’ presented to an overflowing audience at the Empire, is an outstanding example of what can be done with a great human story. . . ‘Les Miserables’ can hold its own against any production. . . It was a real tribute to the fine work put into the film that, some slight unpleasantness caused by a rush for seats by an eager public immediately subsided once the magic play of lights and shadows began, and the episodes were watched in complete silence, broken only by bursts of applause in tribute to some specially fine piece of acting. . . Scenery, grouping, action, costuming, continuity, show that master hands have been at work . . . scenes remain in the memory as outstanding in a succession  of striking pictures. . . every one in the cast brings skill and sympathy and intelligence to the achievement of a beautiful piece of work,” says the London Daily Mail, England’s greatest newspaper of more than one million circulation, in a full column  review. Le Matin, Paris’s leading daily, in a front-page review, said: “Never has a film presentation been so imbued with the personalities of the silent art, its friends, technicians, the numerous living professionals of the magic band who create in their imagination, reproduce, and exploit  it — nor has there been a more select, more attentive, more interested and unexpected public than the 3,000 and more spectators drawn by the Films de France (Societe des Cineromans) to the Empire yesterday. “It was an unforgettable spectacle which was unfolded amidst applause. A film was presented of the work, the title of which is engraved in letters of fire in the history of philosophy, literature, and romance — ‘Les Miserables,’ by Victor Hugo. . . Has the cinema still enemies? Certainly. But their number decreases every day, while the crowd of screen adepts increases. But let these indifferent or hostile, go in good faith to see ‘Les Miserables.’ They will be converted by seeing what is a joy to the eye and a satisfaction to the mind. “For a long time in the cinema, an amused admiration has been kept for the harmony of the photography, its style, or picturesqueness of decoration, to the big movements of the crowds, the outward play of the characters, and also to this paradox — the discipline apparent in the disorder among the crowds. “Certainly ‘Les Miserables’ has, besides all these essential qualities, as minute and perfect technique as could be conceived. But this film has something greater, higher, and rarer. It contains, epitomises, and pours out the intense generosity, wide charity, vehement pity, and magnificent revolt against ‘special damnation’ — all that makes Victor Hugo’s novel a masterpiece. “In this film is the soul of the holy dreamer, and it touches a responsive chord in us.  . . . It  is  humanity  that emerges, pulsates, imposes, orders. . . Unquestionably and magnificently, its humanity is for the people of all time; it appears colossal, irresistible. It has nobility, splendor, life, such as the penetrating insight of a Louis Nalpas can put into a film, the adaptation and astonishingly sensible production of a Henri Fescourt. And over and above that, an admirable technique. Humanity is indeed the essence of the film,  ‘Les Miserables,’ which will engrave itself on the screens throughout the world. “Henri Fescourt has instituted colossal scenes which show perfect continuity of action . . . even the smallest parts are magnificently played, a bright and intelligent cast giving devoted support to the interpretation of the masterpiece. . . this unquestionable triumph. . .a big  success. The result, so much more brilliant than was expected, will give to the film the great place that it merits on the world’s screens.” The  Cinema, one of the most widely circulated trade papers in the United Kingdom, reports: “The audience comprised some three thousand people, and included a great many prominent Government officials, notabilities, and entire representation of the lay and trade press, and one of the largest gatherings of exhibitors ever assembled in France. In addition, there were big exhibitors from nearly every European country, some coming from as far as Stockholm. “ ‘Les Miserables’ is one of, if not the world’s greatest picture,” continues the Cinema, quoting the remarks of one who witnessed the production.  “In all, the film has been produced at far greater expense than any other European production yet made.” Other lay and trade papers are no less eulogistic in reviewing ��Les Miserables.” A print is expected by Universal Home Office executives shortly. 

[gellavonhamster]

monthly media recap: december 2023

read:

King Arthur’s Enchantresses: Morgan and Her Sisters in Arthurian Tradition by Carolyne Larrington - an analysis of development of Morgan, Morgause, and different incarnations of the Lady of the Lake from the earlier Arthurian texts to modern retellings ("modern" going as late as the 20th century, so no mention of, say, BBC Merlin or Starz Camelot yet). What I found the most interesting was a glimpse into the romances/books I haven't read (yet) and the chapters on Arthurian female characters - mainly the Lady of the Lake - in Pre-Raphaelite art. Lowkey made me wanna reread A. S. Byatt's Possession too, because it was mentioned in this book at some point.

Hellebore Zine Yuletide Hauntings special - another nice batch of articles on the spooky and mysterious in the British history and literature, with beautiful illustrations to boot. This zine has really become one of my favourite little treats to get myself last year.

The School in Carmarthen (Школа в Кармартене) by Anna Korostelyova - a lowkey legendary Russian fantasy novel that's been only published online and in a couple of very small printing runs, and which I was recommended about nine years go (better late then never, yeah). It's set in a Welsh school of magic where the teachers are various mythical and historical figures. Apart from some loose plotlines such as students trying to uncover the past of some of the teachers and the school being threatened to be closed by the bureaucrats, it's basically a sitcom composed of many slices of life. Normally not my cup of tea. But I was reading something more plot-heavy at the same time, and this book was cute and actually funny, with some witty jabs ar British imperialism (and at Harry Potter; for example, one of the characters is basically Snape if he wasn't a dick), so I enjoyed it.

+ I read a couple of articles mentioned in this post (the ones on Villette and Rebecca specifically) and am now reading this research paper on same-sex intimacy and desire in Les Mis and its adaptations and thinking about how glad I am that most of what I see of the Les Mis fandom on my dashboard these days is focused on canon era. Also, still reading One Piece manga, currently at Ch. 839

watched:

still nothing :( the fucking pirate manga wants all my attention to itself. I'll have to drag myself to the cinema in January, that's the only way I'll watch something, I guess. And I actually have some films I want to see for a change

[inapat16]

Similar stories of girls in uniform: 4. Overview of lesbian representation in boarding school movies

In the previous articles, we saw multiple innovative movies about the representation of lesbians through boarding school films. This type of movies was one of the first tolerated ways to depict lesbianism on screens because the relationship between two women was not always explicit and the scriptwriters could play on the confusion with a strong admiration for a role model or even with a substitute mother. However, we saw that some of these films were still rather explicit about their subject, but it came with a problematic vision of romantic relationships: a teacher taking advantage of her position to seduce under-age girls.

Over time, it has become a little more common to present lesbian stories in cinema, even if it is still quite rare. While the types of stories have diversified, some rather recent releases continue to pay tribute to the boarding school film genre. The 2006 release Loving Annabelle, directed by Katherine Brooks, re-adapt the entire story of Olivia and Young girls in uniform, but make the story incredibly explicit as the teacher and the student end up sleeping together, and the teacher being condemned by the law for it. Another movie and surely a better one, Lost and Delirious, released in 2001 and directed by Léa Pool, finally presents a vision of love between two students. Answering to the codes of the teen movie genre, it is a bit surprising that it took so many years to have the story focusing on the relationship of two female boarders. But considering the difficulties of the time, like the code Hays that firstly made the Children’s Hour story heterosexual, these movies were still a first step towards the representation of lesbians in cinema.

There was a time when one of the only ways to cross paths with Sapphic stories was through autobiographical inspired literature, written by female authors, and many movies came from their adaptations. We talked about Gestern und heute by Christa Winsloe in 1930, and about Olivia by Dorothy Bussy in 1949, but it is funny to observe that it is more common than what it first appears. Another example is French literary superstar Colette, who expresses all her feelings as a young teenager in Claudine in 1900, including her joy at spending time at her school with "Mademoiselle Aimée", whose name simply means "Miss loved".

If the boarding school movies were important to develop the representation of lesbians in cinema, we can now demand beautiful and ethical stories about Sapphic romances, and ones that don’t even solve with the death of one of the protagonists! We can however still be grateful for their existence at a time where they were essential: for example, Mädchen in uniform, released in 1931, became cult in the LGBT community. We can also feel the need to know and to preserve that history of queerness in cinema with the recent restorations of Olivia and Mädchen in uniforms. It is thanks to that work of preservation of the past that we can build the cinema of tomorrow.

Zoé Richard

[hividsmarttv]

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Chinese Cinema: A Glance at Popular Movies, Filmmakers, and Cultural Significance

Introduction:

Chinese cinema has emerged as a powerful force on the global stage, captivating audiences with its unique storytelling, rich cultural heritage, and visually stunning films. From critically acclaimed blockbusters to intimate arthouse creations, China has produced a wide array of cinematic gems that have left an indelible mark on the industry. In this article, we will delve into the realm of Chinese cinema, exploring popular movies, celebrated actors and directors, popular genres, and the unique culture of movie watching in China.

Popular Movies from China:

"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000) - Directed by Ang Lee, this martial arts masterpiece captured the hearts of both domestic and international audiences, winning four Academy Awards and becoming a global sensation.

"Hero" (2002) - Directed by Zhang Yimou, this visually mesmerizing wuxia film starred Jet Li and showcased breathtaking cinematography, intricate storytelling, and a deep exploration of Chinese philosophy.

"Raise the Red Lantern" (1991) - Directed by Zhang Yimou, this art film offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of concubines in 1920s China, showcasing the director's keen eye for visual storytelling and complex narratives.

"Farewell My Concubine" (1993) - Directed by Chen Kaige, this epic drama explores the lives of two Peking opera performers amidst the backdrop of China's turbulent history, delving into themes of love, loyalty, and identity.

"House of Flying Daggers" (2004) - Directed by Zhang Yimou, this visually stunning martial arts film combines breathtaking action sequences with a passionate love story, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Well-known Actors, Directors, and Filmmakers:

Zhang Yimou - Known for his visually stunning films, Zhang Yimou is a renowned director whose works often explore themes of Chinese history, culture, and society. His films have received critical acclaim worldwide.

Ang Lee - Taiwanese-born Ang Lee has directed films both in China and Hollywood, displaying versatility in his storytelling. His ability to bridge cultural gaps has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Director.

Chen Kaige - A prominent figure in the Fifth Generation of Chinese filmmakers, Chen Kaige has crafted powerful films exploring Chinese history and society. His works often delve into the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Popular Genres in China:

Wuxia: Wuxia films are characterized by their stylized martial arts action, often set in ancient China and influenced by Chinese folklore and literature. These movies blend action, romance, and fantasy elements, captivating audiences with their dynamic choreography and elaborate storytelling.

Historical Epics: Chinese cinema frequently explores historical periods, bringing to life important events, figures, and stories from China's rich past. These films delve into themes of honor, loyalty, and the struggle for power, immersing viewers in captivating historical narratives.

Contemporary Dramas: Reflecting modern Chinese society, contemporary dramas tackle social issues, family dynamics, and personal relationships. These films often offer nuanced insights into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society.

The Culture of Movie Watching in China:

Movie watching holds a significant place in Chinese culture. Cinemas are popular gathering spots, providing a communal experience for friends and families. Chinese audiences are enthusiastic, often expressing their emotions freely during screenings. The box office success of a movie is an important indicator of its popularity, with high-grossing films often seen as a reflection of public taste.

Conclusion:

Chinese cinema has grown by leaps and bounds, establishing itself as a global powerhouse with its diverse range of movies, talented filmmakers, and iconic actors. From captivating historical epics to visually stunning martial arts films and thought-provoking dramas, Chinese cinema offers a plethora of choices for audiences seeking compelling storytelling and unique cultural perspectives.

The success and popularity of Chinese cinema can be attributed to the visionary directors who have left an indelible mark on the industry. Filmmakers like Zhang Yimou, Ang Lee, and Chen Kaige have showcased their immense talent in bringing Chinese stories to life on the silver screen. Their ability to blend artistic visuals, emotional depth, and cultural nuances has garnered international acclaim, paving the way for a broader appreciation of Chinese films.

In addition to acclaimed directors, Chinese cinema boasts a roster of talented actors who have gained recognition both within China and on the global stage. Stars such as Gong Li, Zhang Ziyi, Andy Lau, and Donnie Yen have captivated audiences with their exceptional performances, adding depth and authenticity to the characters they portray.

Chinese audiences take great pride in their cinema, and movie watching has become an integral part of the country's cultural fabric. Cinemas are social spaces where friends and families gather to enjoy a shared experience. The enthusiasm of the audience is palpable, with laughter, gasps, and applause resonating throughout screenings. The box office success of a film is not only a reflection of its quality but also an indication of its resonance with the public.

In conclusion, Chinese cinema has emerged as a dynamic force in the global film industry, captivating audiences with its diverse range of movies, celebrated filmmakers, and talented actors. From historical epics to contemporary dramas, Chinese films offer a rich tapestry of storytelling, cultural insights, and visual splendor. As the industry continues to evolve, Chinese cinema will undoubtedly leave an enduring impact on the art of filmmaking worldwide.

[mask131]

Cold winter: More about Astérix

MORE ABOUT ASTERIX

Freely translated from the “Dictionary of Characters and Figures – from Literature, Opera, Cinema and BD”

Unlike Alix (see below), Astérix the Gaul, created in 1959 by René Goscinny (texts) and Albert Uderzo (drawings), is a strong enemy of Cesar. In a Gaul almost entirely conquered and pacified, he is the last resistant, just like how companion Obélix the menhir-carver. Gifted with a superhuman strength thanks to a magical potion brewed by the druid of his village, Astérix keeps beating up the poor Roman soldiers he meets, much to the despair and powerlessness of the latter. The lack of drama of the story (since the heroes are invincible) is compensated by a strong caricature and pastiche of the habits and mores of modern France.

The impressive number of translations of the work (one was even done in Latin!) and the numerous attempts at studying the “Astérix phenomenon” prove the enormous success of this little grumpy but sympathetic man, and his oafish sidekick. Interestingly their audience is mostly found among the adults, since the kids tend to not understand the wordplays, Easter eggs and the verbal creativity of the authors. As for the History with a big H, she is constantly wrecked with delicious anachronisms.

- - - - - -

As a note, I want to insist that this Dictionary was published in 1981, so its info and point of view are a bit old – notably, the “Asterix and Obelix” phenomenon was barely twenty years old at this point, unlike today’s whooping sixty years old. It is especially telling that, at this point in history, the writers of the Dictionary assumed that it was ultimately a series more for adults than children – when the series was created precisely for children, and was then re-classed later as a “children thing”. As I told you in my main post about it, the “Asterix” series was precisely aimed at both adults and kids, and this actually confused people for a long time as they weren’t used to have a series that aimed to have an all-age audience.

As for the reference to “Alix”, it is another famous character of the Franco-Belgian BD world. Here is his article:

Alix

Created in 1948 by Jacques Martin, the character of Alix found a huge success in the Tintin Newspaper before getting its own separate series. A young Gaul contemporary of Julius Caesar, Alix was taken as a slave in Asia Minor. Escaping his condition thanks to fights between the Parthians and the Romans, he becomes one of the leaders of the Gaulish opposition against Caesar. However the defeat of Vercingetorix teaches him that the wisest course of action would be to collaborate with the Roman invader – and so, alongside his faithful companion Enak, Alix will start travelling throughout the ancient world as Caesar’s secret agent, and become a prime character in Caesar’s political feuds against Pompey.

The main strengths of this story are its originality, its very detailed art style and its faithful historical reconstruction. A mix of Tintin and Ben Hur, Alix and Enak defend Rome’s imperialism, but with some nuances. In his very last adventure, the young warrior seems to have grown up as he becomes quite attracted by the opposite gender.

[Note: The last note of the Dictionary’s article is actually a nod to something that happened in the world of the Franco-Belgian BD. We had a censorship authority over bande-dessinées, a censorship code quite similar to the one that fell upon American comic books in the 50s. As a result, all mentions of sexuality, but also of love and romance were banned – sometimes even going as far as to remove all female characters that weren’t children or clearly unattractive. As a result, most of the stories were either about children too young for romance or single characters bordering on the asexual and aromantic. It was only after some decades that romance was allowed back into the BDs – hence why in the 80s it is noted that suddenly Alix seems to have gone through some late “puberty” as he now starts to feel attraction for girls after years and years of no-romance adventures].

[ancientphantom]

Horror is genuinely one of my favorite genres, and it isn't because I love blood and gore and people screaming in the woods. (Actually, I hate those things. Horror is very hard for me to consume because I am a scaredy-cat! I have to watch things through laced fingers with support staff standing by!) It's because horror tells really, really compelling stories, and it does so in a way that other genres often can't access without becoming something else.

Horror asks:

What are we afraid of, and why? A lot of the horror genre is simply about examining human fears and what lies underneath them. Why are we afraid of something that looks dead but isn't? What scares us about the idea of someone we don't know in our homes? Why are we unsettled by the Uncanny Valley? Horror gets to play with these ideas in both an anthropological way (we're afraid of someone in our home because we could be endangered in a space that should be safe) and an entertaining one (we're also afraid of it because if one rule - "strangers should not be in your house" - got broken, ANYTHING COULD HAPPEN NOW).

How do we respond to fear and what does that say about us? This is one of the most compelling questions horror asks. When we watch laughing humans torture zombies in Night of the Living Dead, we are forced to ask whether the humans are not just as monstrous as the undead; when we see characters desperately disregard their own safety and life in Saw to try to save others, we see humanity at its best under harrowing circumstances; when we see Mia Wasikowski finally beat someone to death and stagger bloody into the snow at the end of Crimson Peak, we see the ability of humans to adapt from delicate and helpless to savagely self-reliant.

Is our fear justified? This is another one of my favorites: yes, we know we're afraid of, let's say, demons, but what does that mean? Horror, like other kinds of speculative fiction, often uses its story and elements to talk about fears subtly, forcing viewers to draw conclusions from the real world. Something like Black Mirror is a good example: a lot of us are afraid of technological advancements that could be harmful to us or society, but are we justified? What could actually go wrong, and what are we catastrophizing? (And, if we realize we're afraid of something that doesn't make sense, what is it we're actually scared of? Often, the answer is a social one: very frequently horror points out that the root of a fear is bigotry.)

Is this REALLY about fear? A huge chunk of horror is about examining when "fear" is really a different emotion that we repress or avoid. A good recent example is Flanagan's The Haunting of Hill House miniseries, which uses ghosts and hauntings, often hideously violent or disturbing ones, to expose the fact that most of the characters' emotional breakdowns are about grief rather than fear, and that a ghost is partially frightening to their loved ones because it represents the ongoing pain of that grief and loss. Horror as a genre is uniquely good at digging underneath the surface level of "this stuff scares us" to find "because it makes us feel sad/angry/alone/guilty." An example in another direction is Get Out: audiences are forced to grapple with racial guilt and discrimination alongside the characters, which is the entire point.

There's also a real elitism in the history of disdain for horror that I think most folks probably aren't aware of. Horror is genre fiction/film - like romance or science fiction, it's wildly popular and chock full of great stuff, but The Academic Establishment tends to treat it like it's all cotton candy garbage for idiots who can't read Real Literature or watch True Cinema. (This is bullshit, obviously, but it's pervasive bullshit.) This means that horror doesn't get five-star treatment at most film studios or distributors, since it's considered a lesser tier of entertainment, which in turn means that it's much more difficult to get quality projects funded and all the way through the process to hit your screens. There is a lot of very compelling horror out there that has absolutely dogshit production values, because the filmmakers had to choose between that and not having a movie at all and they were scrappy and went for it. (The biggie in recent cultural history is of course The Blair Witch Project, which was incredibly low production values and budget but in being that way managed to help create/popularize its own subgenre.)

Entertainingly, the person screenshotted in the comments above is almost certainly wrong about not being able to name five horror movies; it's not like the ones I listed above are obscure or out of the mainstream, after all. It's more likely that they're just thinking "Well, I don't know any titles like Killer Cannibal Brides of Dracula, so I don't know any horror because that's what horror is," which is tragic. Horror is a beautiful, depthful genre that can say wonderful things.

(And yeah, Cannibal Brides of Dracula IV: They Have Chainsaws probably ain't high art or saying much interesting about the things above. But that's true of every genre; we don't run around saying action thrillers are a worthless film type even though I promise there are just as many terribad films called things like Commando Control VII: Just Me and My Gun out there as there are low-budget slashers.)

people who don’t watch horror movies are SO confident that they know everything there is to know about the genre. like it’s okay to not know things. it’s okay if you don’t like friday the 13th or whatever. i promise you don’t need to make an ass out of yourself on the internet about it

[delhiinstitute123]

Master Italian: Top Reasons to Learn, Essential Phrases for Beginners, and Expert Tips for Fluency

Italian is a language full of charm, melody, and cultural richness. Known as the language of art, opera, and romance, it captivates the hearts of language learners around the world. Whether you’re inspired by Italy’s history, its vibrant culture, or the allure of the Italian lifestyle, learning Italian opens doors to a deeper appreciation of one of the world’s most beloved languages. In this blog series, we’ll explore why learning Italian is a rewarding choice, go over essential phrases and tips for beginners, and provide advanced insights for achieving fluency. Let’s dive in and begin this exciting language journey!

Table of Contents

Why Learn Italian? Top Reasons to Start Italian Language Courses Today

Italian for Beginners: Essential Phrases and Grammar Tips to Get Started

How to Speak Italian Fluently: Advanced Tips for Mastering Italian Language Skills

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Learn Italian? Top Reasons to Start Italian Language Courses Today

Learning Italian is more than just acquiring a new skill—it’s a gateway to a world rich in history, art, cuisine, and tradition. Here’s why many people choose to start learning Italian:

A. Connect with Italian Culture

Italy is renowned for its cultural contributions, from Renaissance art to Italian opera and modern cinema. Learning Italian helps you better understand and appreciate Italy’s cultural heritage. It also allows you to enjoy Italian films, music, and literature in their original form, giving a richer and more authentic experience.

B. Boost Your Travel Experience

Italy is one of the world’s top travel destinations, known for cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence. Speaking Italian can make your travels more enjoyable and immersive, helping you to navigate, converse with locals, and understand cultural nuances.

C. Italian is a “Gateway Language”

Italian is part of the Romance language family, closely related to Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Learning Italian can help you pick up other Romance languages more easily, as they share similar grammar and vocabulary structures.

Italian for Beginners: Essential Phrases and Grammar Tips to Get Started

Once you’re motivated to learn Italian, it’s time to start with the basics! Italian grammar and pronunciation are relatively straightforward, making it accessible to beginners. Here’s a breakdown of essential phrases and grammar tips to start speaking Italian with confidence.

A. Basic Italian Greetings and Introductions

Learning how to greet others is a great place to start in any language. Here are some fundamental phrases:

Ciao! – Hi/Hello/Goodbye

Buongiorno – Good morning

Buonasera – Good evening

Come stai? – How are you?

Mi chiamo [Your Name] – My name is [Your Name]

B. Key Grammar Points for Beginners

Italian grammar has several rules, but here are two essentials to start with:

Gendered Nouns: Italian nouns have gender, which is often indicated by the noun’s ending. Words ending in -o are typically masculine, and those ending in -a are usually feminine.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Italian verbs change depending on the subject. For example, “I eat” is io mangio, while “you eat” is tu mangi.

[safemexico]

Cultural Significance of the Spanish Language

You're likely aware that the Spanish language is more than just a means of communication; it's a crucial link to rich cultural traditions and historical narratives. Consider how it connects millions across continents, from Europe to Latin America, influencing everything from literature and cinema to social identity and unity. But have you considered how Spanish continues to be shaped by the world today? Its role in modern media and its diverse dialects keeps evolving, leaving you to ponder what this means for the future of Spanish-speaking communities. Are you curious about where this journey might lead?

Key Takeaways

- The Spanish language embodies centuries of history, showcasing profound cultural heritage and diversity. - It facilitates understanding Hispanic cultures through literature, idiomatic expressions, and dialects. - Spanish unifies 21 countries, fostering a shared cultural identity among over 470 million speakers. - The language has significantly influenced global literature, visual arts, and cinema. - Spanish-language media, including music and podcasts, enriches cultural experiences and promotes international unity.

Origins and Development

The Spanish language originates on the Iberian Peninsula and is rooted in Vulgar Latin. As you delve into its beginnings, you'll find that it traces back to the 9th century in the northern coastal areas of Spain. This connection to Rome is pivotal because Spanish is a Romance language, which means it's directly derived from Latin. The evolution of Spanish didn't happen overnight; it was a gradual process that involved the development of various dialects. Among these dialects, Castilian emerged as the most prominent and widely spoken. Its dominance began in the region of Castile, and it eventually spread across Spain. You might be interested to know that despite Spain being the language's birthplace, it only accounts for about 12% of the world's native Spanish speakers today. Spanish's journey from the Iberian Peninsula to becoming a major global language is a tribute to its adaptability and rich history. While you might think of Spain when you hear Spanish, remember that it's spoken in 20 countries across four continents. This widespread use underscores its significance and how deeply it's entrenched in global culture.

Global Influence and Spread

As you explore the global influence of the Spanish language, consider how its widespread adoption extends far beyond Spain's borders. Spanish is an official language in 18 American countries, Puerto Rico, and Equatorial Guinea, showcasing its vast reach. With Mexico leading the charge, boasting approximately 110 million native Spanish speakers, the language's presence is undeniable. This global influence is further amplified by large Spanish-speaking populations in Colombia and Argentina, contributing 41 million and 40 million speakers, respectively. Around 38 million Spanish speakers in Spain make the country a pivotal hub for the language, infusing it with a rich cultural heritage that resonates worldwide. Beyond these borders, countries like Venezuela, Peru, and Chile have substantial Spanish-speaking populations, emphasizing the language's role in shaping global communication and cultural exchange. Understanding the Spanish language's reach offers insight into its ability to connect diverse cultures and communities. As Spanish speakers grow, they foster a shared identity across continents. This linguistic unity transcends geographical boundaries, weaving a tapestry of rich cultural narratives highlighting the Spanish language's enduring influence on the global stage. Embrace this linguistic journey and its profound impact.

Cultural Depth and Richness

Plunge into the cultural depth and richness of the Spanish language, where centuries of history come alive through its words and expressions. You'll find that each word, like "Spanish" and "hola," carries a story rooted in ancient origins. The language's grammar and syntax reflect a profound cultural heritage, allowing you to express a vast array of concepts and ideas in ways that are uniquely Spanish. As you explore Spanish literature, you'll discover how it serves as a cultural reference, revealing the soul of Hispanic cultures. Authors like Cervantes and García Márquez have used the language to create timeless works that resonate across generations. Their stories aren't just tales; they're windows into the past, providing insights into the rich tapestry of Spanish-speaking societies. In the spoken language, idiomatic expressions and diverse accents add layers of cultural richness. Each phrase and pronunciation variation contributes to a vibrant linguistic mosaic, showcasing regional identities. By learning Spanish, you gain access to this cultural treasure trove. It's a key to understanding the history and identity of Spain and Latin America, making it an invaluable tool for business, travel, and academia.

Social Impact and Identity

When you consider the global influence of the Spanish language, it's clear how it shapes cultural identity and pride. Spanish isn't just a means of communication; it's a connection to rich histories and shared values across continents. As you engage with this language, you embrace a vibrant tapestry that fosters unity and enriches your understanding of diverse cultures. Spanish Language's Global Influence Spanish plays an essential role in shaping cultural identities and social dynamics worldwide. Its reach is vast and significant as an official language in 21 countries, including many Latin American nations. With over 470 million speakers, Spanish is the second most spoken language globally. This widespread use highlights its importance and underscores its influence in forming cultural connections and shared identities. In Latin America, Spanish is more than a means of communication; it's a cultural cornerstone. It threads through history and traditions, shaping societies and fostering unity among diverse groups. The number of speakers continues to rise, amplifying its impact on cultural and social structures within the region. In the United States, Spanish's popularity is growing. It offers access to a rich Hispanic cultural heritage and fosters deeper understanding among communities. It acts as a bridge, connecting people with a world of diverse experiences and perspectives. Across continents, Spanish doesn't just influence language but also serves as a significant force in social cohesion and cultural pride, enriching the global tapestry. Embrace its worldwide influence and the rich cultural narratives it supports. Cultural Identity and Pride With roots that run deep into the cultural heritage of Spanish-speaking countries, the Spanish language serves as a powerful emblem of cultural identity and pride. It has shaped the history and identity of Spain, offering a rich tapestry of cultural references, idiomatic expressions, and diverse accents. This richness reflects the deep cultural heritage of Spanish-speaking communities. Embracing the Spanish language connects you to a world where art, literature, music, and traditions in Latin America play crucial roles in daily life. In the United States, Spanish is more than just a language; it's a bridge that connects diverse communities, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. As you learn Spanish, you'll gain insights into the unique cultural nuances and historical depth that define Spanish-speaking countries. This journey enhances your linguistic skills and deepens your appreciation of a vibrant cultural identity. Here's a quick look at how the Spanish language influences cultural pride: Aspect Impact Cultural Significance Art Inspiration Reflection of identity Literature Storytelling Preservation of heritage Music Expression Unifying force Traditions Continuity Celebration of roots Communities Connection Fostering unity Engaging with this language means embracing a rich source of pride and identity.

Popularity and Learning Benefits

Millions of people worldwide are captivated by the allure of the Spanish language, making it a popular choice for learners everywhere. With over 470 million speakers, it's the second most spoken language globally. This widespread use isn't just a statistic; it offers substantial learning benefits. As the official language in 21 countries, Spanish connects you to diverse Hispanic cultures, enhancing your global outlook. Whether for business, travel, or academia, understanding Spanish opens doors to numerous opportunities. Learning Spanish is relatively easy for English speakers, so many choose it. The language's structure and vocabulary share similarities with English, making the learning curve less steep. This ease of learning translates into tangible advantages, like improved job prospects and a broader international reach. Companies value bilingual employees who can communicate with Spanish-speaking clients and partners. For those interested in deepening their knowledge, institutions like the University of Texas Permian Basin offer online graduate programs focusing on the Spanish language and culture. This access to advanced learning can further enhance your skills and understanding. Embrace Spanish's popularity and learning benefits, and you'll enrich your personal and professional life.

Literary Contributions

Literature offers a timeless window into a language's soul, and the Spanish language is no exception. Its rich history has produced literary works that resonate across centuries, shaping the cultural landscape worldwide. Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" is a monumental piece in the history of the Spanish language. It is often hailed as one of the greatest novels ever written. This masterpiece entertains and provides insight into Spanish society and values through its vivid characters and storytelling. Pablo Neruda's passionate and evocative poetry further enhances the Spanish language's literary tapestry. His Nobel-winning verses capture profound emotions and have left a lasting impact on both Spanish and global literature. These works aren't isolated; they reflect a tradition where Spanish phrases, idioms, and cultural references intertwine seamlessly, showcasing the language's depth and richness. Contemporary authors from Spanish-speaking countries continue this legacy, enriching global literature with diverse perspectives. Today's literary scene is vibrant and ever-evolving, offering fresh narratives that build upon the storied history of the Spanish language. - Cervantes' "Don Quixote": A cornerstone of Spanish literary history. - Neruda's Poetry: A profound contribution to world literature. - Modern Authors: Enriching global narratives with Spanish flair.

Artistic and Visual Expressions

Spanish art's vibrancy and diversity have captivated audiences globally, showcasing a rich tapestry of styles ranging from Baroque to contemporary visual arts. You can't help but admire how the Spanish language weaves itself into these artistic expressions, enriching them with cultural depth. Legendary painters like Dalí, Sorolla, and Zuloaga have left an indelible mark on the art world, each contributing unique perspectives that continue to inspire. Their works reflect a harmonious blend of traditional influences and modern interpretations, making Spanish visual arts an invaluable repository of innovation. Sculptors like Chillida have pushed the boundaries of creativity, shaping the evolution of visual arts with their groundbreaking techniques. Their sculptures often speak a universal language yet are deeply rooted in Spanish cultural narratives. This duality makes Spanish artistic expressions both relatable and uniquely intriguing. The Spanish film industry adds another layer to this cultural richness. Directors like Buñuel and Saura have crafted cinematic masterpieces that explore the complexities of human experience, using the Spanish language as an essential tool for storytelling. Their films entertain and provoke thought, highlighting Spain's diverse artistic landscape.

Dialects and Variations

When exploring Spanish's cultural significance, you'll notice how regional dialects add rich diversity, from Mexico's vibrant expressions to Argentina's distinct tone—Latin American Spanish sounds different from its European counterpart, showing phonological variations shaped by history. In places like the Canary Islands and the Philippines, unique dialects highlight how Spanish has adapted globally, while Castilian remains the most widely spoken. Regional Dialect Differences Across the Spanish-speaking world, regional dialect differences vividly illustrate the language's rich cultural tapestry. The Spanish language thrives on its diversity, with regional dialects creating a vibrant mosaic of expression. For instance, Latin American Spanish, derived from Castilian, showcases this linguistic diversity. Each country and even regions within countries add unique flavors to the Spanish language. You can hear distinct vocabulary, expressions, and intonations from Mexico to Argentina. Exploring these regional dialects enriches your understanding of Spanish and provides a deeper appreciation for its global impact. As you travel through the regions where Spanish is spoken, you'll notice how these dialects reflect cultural influences and historical contexts. The loss of the Latin case system, except for pronouns, is a shared trait, yet regional variations remain evident. Here are a few key features contributing to the uniqueness of regional dialects: - Vocabulary: Words such as "guagua" for bus in the Canary Islands and "autobús" in Spain can vary significantly. - Verb System: Indicative, imperative, and subjunctive moods can differ subtly. - Expressions: Colloquial phrases often carry local flair, reflecting cultural nuances. Understanding these differences deepens your appreciation for the Spanish language's global reach. Phonological Distinctions Worldwide Exploring phonological distinctions in Spanish dialects reveals a fascinating mosaic of sounds that define its global character. When you immerse yourself in the Spanish spoken in Spain, Latin America, or the Canary Islands, you'll notice distinct differences that stem from a blend of cultural and historical influences. These variations in pronunciation, intonation, and accent reflect the diverse tapestry of the Spanish-speaking world. You'll find that differences in vowel sounds, consonant pronunciation, and stress patterns play a significant role in the richness of Spanish dialects. In Spain, the pronunciation of the "c" and "z" sounds can differ dramatically from the softer consonants in Latin America. Meanwhile, you could encounter sounds influenced by the indigenous Guanche language in the Canary Islands. Indigenous languages, historical events, and geographical isolation shape the phonological distinctions in Spanish dialects, all contributing to the language's unique character. By understanding these distinctions, you enhance your language comprehension and deepen your cultural appreciation. Embracing the variety within Spanish dialects allows you to connect more authentically with the diverse communities that speak this vibrant language.

Spanish in Modern Media

Spanish has undeniably become a powerhouse in modern media, enchanting audiences worldwide with its vibrant and diverse offerings. As the second most spoken language globally, Spanish has a vast reach in the media landscape. Major Spanish-language media outlets like Univision and Telemundo are pivotal in shaping content for Hispanic audiences, providing news, entertainment, and cultural programming. These outlets not only serve native speakers but also attract a wider audience keen to explore diverse narratives. Streaming platforms like Netflix have capitalized on the demand for Spanish-language content, offering many options that cater to various tastes. From gripping dramas to light-hearted comedies, these shows and movies present authentic stories that resonate with viewers from all walks of life. The success of Spanish-language films such as "Roma" and "Pan's Labyrinth" further demonstrates their global appeal and critical acclaim. In addition to film and television: - Spanish-language music, including reggaeton and bachata, dominates international charts. - Famous Spanish-speaking artists frequently collaborate with global stars. - Spanish-language podcasts and radio shows are gaining popularity, offering fresh perspectives. Embracing Spanish in modern media enriches your cultural experience and broadens your understanding of the world.

Unifying Spanish-speaking Nations

Although diverse in culture and geography, Spanish-speaking nations are united by their shared language, which is a powerful connector. The Spanish language emerged from the region of Spain and has become the first language for millions across 21 countries. As you explore these nations, you'll notice how Spanish is a common bond, fostering a deep sense of belonging and cultural unity. This shared language allows for seamless communication and cultural exchange, making it easier for people from different Spanish-speaking countries to understand and appreciate each other. You'll find that the Spanish language transcends geographical boundaries, promoting solidarity and strengthening connections between nations that might otherwise seem worlds apart. As Spanish speakers, you're part of a unique global community with a rich cultural tapestry. This language enables you to communicate with others and connects you to a shared history and identity. It's a powerful tool that bridges gaps between diverse cultures, reinforcing the sense of unity and identity among Spanish-speaking nations. Embrace this linguistic bond, and you'll discover a world of collaboration, mutual respect, and cultural richness.

Conclusion

You've journeyed through the rich tapestry of the Spanish language, uncovering its origins, global influence, and cultural depth. Embracing Spanish connects you to a vibrant world of literature, art, and shared identity across nations. Read the full article

[musingsofmonica]

May 2024 Diverse Reads

May 2024 Diverse Reads:

•”Lies and Weddings” by Kevin Kwan, May 21, Doubleday Books, Romance/Romantic Comedy/Women/Cultural Heritage/Asian & Asian American

•”América del Norte” by Nicolás Medina Mora, May 07, Soho Press, Literary/Political/Cultural Heritage/Hispanic & Latino

•”Ella” by Diane Richards, May 07, Amistad Press, Biographical, Historical/Women/Cultural Heritage/African American & Black

•”Daughters of Shandong” by Eve J. Chung, May 07, Berkley Books, Literary/Historical/Political/Women/World Literature/China

•”A Crane Among Wolves” by June Hur, May 14, Feiwel & Friends/Historical/Mysteries & Detective Stories/Romance/Royalty/Political/World Literature/Korea

•”The Ministry of Time” by Kaliane Bradley, May 07, Avid Reader Press / Simon & Schuster, Science Fiction/Spy Thriller/Time Travel/Romance/Workplace

•”The Return of Ellie Black” by Emiko Jean, May 07, Simon & Schuster, Thriller/Suspense/Women

•”Exhibit” by R. O. Kwon, May 21, Riverhead Books, Literary/Women/Friendship/Cultural Heritage/Asian American

•”Oye” by Melissa Mogollon, May 14, Hogarth Press, Contemporary/Humorous/Family Life/General/Cultural Heritage/Hispanic & Latino

•”Lavash at First Sight” by Taleen Voskuni, May 07, Berkley Books, Romance/Romantic Comedy/LGBT/Women/Cultural Heritage/Armenian American 

•”The Library Thief” by Kuchenga Shenjé, May 07, Hanover Square Press, Literary/Historical/Gothic/Cultural Heritage/African American & Black/World Literature/England/Jamaica 

•”Cecilia” by K-Ming Chang, May 21, Coffee House Press, Literary/Magical Realism/Cultural Heritage/Asian American/LGBTQ

•”Goddess of the River” by Vaishnavi Patel, May 21, Redhook, Literary/Historical/Fantasy/Fairy Tale/Folk Tale/Legends & Mythology/Ancient/Magical Realism

•”Cinema Love” by Jiaming Tang, May 07, Dutton, Literary/Cultural Heritage/Asian American/LGBTQ

•”Bad Seed: Stories” by Gabriel Carle, translated by Heather Houde, May 07, Feminist Press, Contemporary/Short Stories/Coming of Age/LGBT/World Literature/Caribbean & West Indies

•”How to Make Your Mother Cry” by Sejal Shah, May 01, West Virginia University Press, Literary/Short Stories/Women/Cultural Heritage/Asian American/Own Voice

•”Magical/Realism: Essays on Music, Memory, Fantasy, and Borders” by Vanessa Angélica Villarreal, May 14, Tiny Reparations Books, Personal Memoir/Essays/Short Essays/Essay Collection/Memoir in Essay/Popular Culture/Ethnic Studies/Hispanic American Studies

•”Accordion Eulogies: A Memoir of Music, Migration, and Mexico” by Noé Álvarez, May 28, Catapult, Personal Memoir/Cultural, Ethnic & Regional/Cultural Heritage/Hispanic & Latino/Folk & Traditional/Ethnic Studies/Hispanic American Studies 

•”But What Will People Say?: Navigating Mental Health, Identity, Love, and Family Between Cultures” by Sahaj Kaur Kohli, May 07, Penguin Life, Personal Growth/Psychotherapy/Happiness/Emotions/Cultural, Ethnic & Regional 

•”Black Meme: A History of the Images That Make Us” by Legacy Russell, May 07, Verso, Art & Politics/Commentary & Opinion/Ethnic Studies/African American Studies/Communication Studies/Race & Ethnic Relations

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Benefits of Learning Italian: Why Take Italian Language Classes?

Italian is a language of beauty, history, and culture. With its melodic sound and deep roots in art, music, and cuisine, Italian is one of the most romantic and culturally rich languages in the world. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy, interested in expanding your career opportunities, or simply fascinated by the language, there are numerous benefits to learning Italian. In this article, we explore why you should consider taking Italian language classes, including the cultural, professional, and personal advantages.

1. Deepen Your Connection to Italian Culture

Italian is not just a language; it's a gateway to one of the most influential cultures in history. Italy has given the world iconic art, music, and literature, and knowing the language allows you to appreciate these works in their original form. From the masterpieces of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci to the operas of Verdi and Puccini, understanding Italian helps you engage more deeply with these cultural treasures.

Additionally, Italian cinema and literature have a profound influence on the global arts scene. By learning Italian, you can enjoy classics like Federico Fellini’s films or Dante’s "Divine Comedy" without the barrier of translation. This deeper connection to Italian culture is one of the most rewarding aspects of taking Italian language classes.

2. Enhance Your Travel Experience in Italy

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich history. While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, knowing Italian can transform your travel experience. Whether you're visiting Rome, Florence, or the Amalfi Coast, speaking Italian allows you to engage more authentically with locals, navigate less touristy areas, and appreciate Italy’s unique regional cultures.

Italian language skills also make it easier to understand local customs, read street signs, menus, and museum information, and get off the beaten path to explore hidden gems that are less frequented by tourists. With language proficiency, you can also better appreciate regional dialects and traditions, making your travel experiences far more meaningful.

3. Career Advancement Opportunities

In today's globalized world, being bilingual or multilingual is a significant asset in the job market. Italy is one of the world's largest economies, and Italian is the official language of several international organizations, including the European Union. Speaking Italian can open doors to various industries, including fashion, design, culinary arts, and automotive engineering, where Italy plays a leading role.

For professionals in the arts, history, and architecture sectors, learning Italian can be crucial, as it allows for deeper collaboration and understanding with Italian-speaking colleagues. Moreover, Italian language skills can boost your resume, making you stand out to multinational companies with ties to Italy or Italian-speaking regions, whether in tourism, business, or diplomacy.

4. Strengthen Cognitive Abilities

Learning a new language is one of the best ways to challenge and sharpen your mind. Studies show that learning languages can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and delay age-related cognitive decline. Italian, with its complex grammar and vocabulary, stimulates different areas of the brain, enhancing your problem-solving skills, multitasking abilities, and creativity.

Additionally, Italian is considered one of the most melodic languages, which makes it an enjoyable challenge for learners. By studying Italian, you’re not just learning to communicate in another language; you’re also improving your overall cognitive health and mental agility, which are benefits that go far beyond language acquisition.

5. Improve Your Communication Skills in Other Romance Languages

Italian belongs to the Romance language family, which includes French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian. These languages share many similarities in vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure, so learning Italian can make it easier to pick up other Romance languages. Once you grasp the fundamentals of Italian, transitioning to another Romance language can feel much more manageable.

For example, words like "amore" (love) in Italian are very similar to "amor" in Spanish or "amour" in French. Understanding these linguistic patterns not only helps in learning multiple languages but also enriches your appreciation of how languages evolve and influence each other.

6. Broaden Your Social and Professional Network

Learning Italian opens up the opportunity to connect with millions of Italian speakers worldwide. Italy is home to around 60 million native speakers, but millions more live in diaspora communities across the globe, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. By learning Italian, you can engage with these communities and forge new friendships or professional relationships.

In today’s interconnected world, language skills are often the bridge to building valuable cross-cultural connections. Whether you’re working on a collaborative project or attending an international event, speaking Italian allows you to break down barriers and form stronger personal and professional relationships with Italian speakers.

7. Enjoy Italian Cuisine on a New Level

Italian cuisine is beloved worldwide, but understanding the language can give you a new appreciation for its regional nuances and culinary traditions. Each region of Italy has its own distinctive dishes and cooking methods, many of which don’t have direct translations. By learning Italian, you can better understand these culinary distinctions and fully engage with authentic Italian recipes.

Imagine reading Italian cookbooks or ordering at an Italian restaurant in the language itself. You’ll understand ingredient names, cooking techniques, and even the cultural history behind certain dishes. If you're a foodie or aspiring chef, this knowledge can elevate your passion for Italian cuisine to a whole new level.

8. Expand Learning Opportunities with Local Italian Classes

If you're serious about immersing yourself in Italian, consider taking Italian language classes from specialized institutes. These classes offer a structured approach, often with experienced tutors who can guide you through the complexities of Italian grammar, pronunciation, and conversation. Small group or one-on-one classes allow for personalized learning and quicker progress compared to self-study.

Local or online Italian classes also provide a sense of community, where you can interact with fellow learners, practice conversational skills, and receive real-time feedback from instructors. This makes learning more engaging and ensures you are progressing at a pace suited to your goals.

Conclusion

Whether you're learning Italian for travel, career advancement, or personal enrichment, the benefits are numerous and far-reaching. Not only does learning the language allow for a deeper connection with Italian culture and its people, but it also offers cognitive benefits and professional opportunities that can enhance your life in unexpected ways.

By enrolling in Italian language classes, you’ll develop skills that extend beyond simple communication. You'll gain access to a rich cultural heritage, expand your global perspective, and unlock opportunities both personally and professionally. So why wait? Start your journey to fluency and immerse yourself in the world of Italian today!