THE ECKLEBURG PROJECT

Howdy, y’all!  Okay, now that I’ve gotten my stereotypical Texan greeting out of the way, let’s proceed!  This past week I contacted Francesca Willow & Madison Mae Parker. Francesca is 22 and originally from Newcastle upon Tyne, England.  She studied dance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, receiving her B.A. in Contemporary Dance.  Francesca also received her M.A. in Theater and Performance Studies from King’s College London.  Madi is 24 and originally from Lubbock, Texas.  She attended Texas A&M and studied Creative Writing.  Together these two people make up “One Thousand Promises.”

Pictured in order: Francesca Willow & Madi Mae Parker 

What is One Thousand Promises, you ask? Well, OTP is a performance duo that combines spoken word and dance.  Amazing, right?  This past Sunday, October 25th, One Thousand Promises performed at Mic Check, a weekly spoken word event held at Revolution Cafe & Bar in Bryan, TX.  Since they were going to be visiting the Bryan-College Station area, I emailed them to see if they would be down to do an email-based interview (their schedules are crazy, yo).  So, let’s begin, shall we?

Q:  First thing’s first, how did you two meet?

Fran - We met in London. Madi studied abroad in spring 2012 and we met as she started coming to Hillsong London, the church I’m part of.

Madi – I hadn’t even started doing spoken word poetry then, it’s crazy how it worked out because it wasn’t until the following fall that I started even performing at mic check.

Q: Each of you had to get started on poetry or dancing in one way or another.  How did each of you get involved in your respective art form?

Madi – I’ve been writing from a young age and was studying creative writing, in fall of 2012 I discovered mic check and soon started performing my poems on Sunday nights.

Fran – I danced from a young age, but not seriously or doing anything that required technique. I had a friend who was training seriously to go to dance school and he suggested I start training with his teachers (he dances for Cullberg Ballet in Sweden now so it paid off!). So at 15 I convinced them to take me, despite having done no ballet or proper contemporary, and I essentially had two years working my butt off to get into dance school but it worked!

Q: Your art project is called “One Thousand Promises.”  Where did this name come from?

One Thousand Promises (OTP) - We had like a three hour skype meeting trying to decide on a name. Francesca had already started choreographing to my poem ‘To Be Woman Is To Be Water’ and in the poem I have a line about women being seen as ‘origami skin being expected to bend ourselves into what we need to be’. We were both really interested in origami and when we started looking into it we discovered the Japanese legend that if you make one thousand paper cranes you have a wish granted. Something about that really captured our attention, and it came from there.

Q: You’re currently on tour.  How did you decide you wanted to go on tour together?

OTP - Francesca was already coming to Texas as her and another dancer had been funded to come perform at Texas Grand Slam. She was planning to stick around for a while longer, and the start date of the writing residency I will be attending soon had just been pushed back to January so I had a spare few months too. The idea just kinda popped into our heads: we’re both here, we both perform, why not do it together?!

Q: Where do each of you get your inspiration to write poetry or choreograph dance?

Madi – personal experiences first and foremost, it’s a way for me to communicate what’s inside to the outside world. I often say in workshops with students that if you can put the chaos around you on page, it doesn’t seem so big any more. I’m also inspired by strong visual images that pull the readers/audience in that hopefully makes them think about something tangible in their lives in a new way.

Fran – For me it really differs piece to piece, as I’ve been involved in quite a variety of projects! In general when I’m choreographing I tend to have a concept I want to work with, and I spend a lot of time improvising and setting myself tasks to make movement, shaping the thing properly comes later on in the process. With choreographing to poetry I tend to pick out certain lines that resonate with me and play around with how that can be represented physically without being too literal, or how it prompts my body to move.

Q :What does a typical day look like for y’all on this tour?

OTP - There really is no typical day!! Some shows are a couple hours from the last venue, some are twelve hours away. Shows end quite late, so most days involve getting up a bit later and doing a hefty amount of driving straight away. Then as much as possible we look around the city before we head to our venue for the night to set up.

Q: What do each of you hope to convey to the audience?  What do you expect from the audience in return?


 OTP - That’s a big question, but I think we’re just hoping to use our stories and experiences to convey a sense of hope, whilst still acknowledging how hard life can be sometimes. It’s about not pretending everything is perfect, but recognising the darkness that can occur in life, and still finding a sense of empowerment, and the belief that you can overcome, despite that. In terms of the audience we just want to create a dialogue, an open space for conversation. After a lot of our shows people have come up to us and told us how our work related to their story and their lives, and I think if we’re encouraging others to share and talk about their own challenges by addressing ours, that’s a healthy and good thing.

Q: Your tour is set to go to Louisiana, Texas, California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and Illinois.  Which location has been your favorite to go to?  Which location are you most excited for (and it better be Bryan for Mic Check--kidding)?

OTP - Every venue has something different to offer, and each space and audience has been so different that it’s almost impossible to compare! That being said, Fran is pretty stoked to perform in LA and Chicago because she has some really great friends there. Madi hasn’t been to any of the cities outside of the Louisiana/Texas shows, so she’s just excited to see cities she hasn’t seen before

Q: What has been your biggest challenge on tour so far?

OTP- Driving. It’s not necessarily a challenge but it’s more tiring than you expect it to be.

Q: What do each of you do to pass the time when travelling from performance to performance?

Fran - Poor Madi has to do all the driving because I can’t drive! In England it’s not a necessity like America, but luckily our musician joins us next week and he does drive so then they can share. I make origami cranes! We’ve been selling them on tour; each one has a little poem inside so they take a while to make. We’ve also been listening to a lot of This American Life; Ira Glass is a storytelling genius.

Q: Did you think you’d ever be where you are today--on tour, performing for many people, and traveling around the U.S.?

Madi - Hell no! It still seems unimaginable that we are doing this. The fact that people from various states and cities want to come and see our work is truly humbling. Still unsure how I stumbled into such a worthwhile and meaningful profession.

Fran – Funnily enough I’ve already travelled the US before, so it’s so weird now doing it for work! It’s my first time performing in America so the difference in audiences has been really cool.

Q: When did you realize you wanted to do poetry & dance?

OTP - Basically when we decided to do a tour haha. I think we just realised no one else was doing it, and to us it seemed so obvious, and collaborating is so fun! So, we just decided we should do it.

Q: Do you have any advice for those just getting into poetry or dance? Any personal experience you want to use to teach an important lesson?

Madi – constantly put yourself out there. It can be scary but the more experiences and tried you give yourself the more you will learn and grow, and the more opportunities will fall into your lap.

Fran – don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do it. I’m not saying you’ll become famous or anything, but I believe anyone can dance if you work hard enough. I had the odds stacked against me. Also, as much as you have to be talented, I always say you have to be able to hustle in this industry. And I don’t mean stabbing someone in the back to get to the top, I just mean if you have an idea, or something you want to share, you don’t have to wait for someone to hand you the opportunities. You can make it happen, you can put on your own shows, you don’t need a huge dance company to employ you. It’s hard work, but it can be done.

Q: Who are each of your favorite performers (poets for Madi & dancers for Fran)?

Madi – Anise Mojgani, Franny Choi, Tanya Ingram and Derrick Brown.

Fran - I really like CandoCo as a whole company because they’re a rep company, which means they get different choreographers in each season and are always showing something different. I also love what they’re doing in terms of inclusivity and displaying different body types. In terms of performance art I also love Richard Dedominici, he’s wildly funny and his work is so intelligent.

Q: Where would be your dream place to perform together?

OTP - The White House if Donald Trump is NOT president! Haha just kidding. We’re really hoping to get out to Asia/Australia/New Zealand at some point in the future. We’ve got friends in Japan and Korea so we would love to get out there.

As you can see, both Francesca and Madi are absolutely wonderful people.  You can check out their tour information here.  Maybe they’ll be performing near you!  You can also follow them on Instagram to keep up with their amazing tour adventures.

Hope you enjoyed the interview & I hope you have a great week!

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During my short time here in Nottingham, England, I have been given the amazing opportunity to explore the culture, art, and history of a place I have never been before. While I’ve enjoyed learning more of 20th century Nottingham author D.H. Lawrence and exploring the stomping grounds of the legendary Robin Hood, I have most enjoyed getting involved with the music scene. Being a part of the music section of the University of Nottingham’s official student magazine IMPACT has allowed me to research and discover some of the UK and Ireland’s greatest current musicians, (I am even getting the chance to see and possibly interview the band alt-J!)

The Mercury Prize is an annual competition in partnership with BBC Music that highlights some of the year’s best albums in the UK and Ireland. The contest has great range, allowing artists from all different stages of their careers and unique genres to participate. The twelve Albums of the Year for 2015 are each extremely deserving of the distinction, together highlighting the diversity and pure talent of the British music scene.

Check out the nominees, as there is surely an album that will fit everyone’s musical tastes!

Syro – Aphex Twin (Electronica)

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With over a decade spanning between Syro and his last album, Aphex Twin manages to create a modern record that stays true to his 90s synesthetic-inspired, ambient techno background; in fact, his aesthetic is something rarely found in 2015. Often difficult for electronica artists of current times, Aphex Twin’s sound is distinct, and each song employs vastly different yet cohesive compositions and sounds. Syro also won the 2014 Grammy for Best Dance/Electronica Album, and tops the charts in its genre.

For fans of: Deadmau5, B12, the Orb

 At Least for Now – Benjamin Clementine (R&B)

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Self-taught musician Benjamin Clementine’s breakout album At Least for Now is one of the most powerful records on this year’s shortlist. At only 26, Clementine—who is also a poet—has a sound that is simple and sophisticated, with beautiful lyrics in both verse and prose backed by clean piano, violin, and percussive instrumentals. This soulful album is perfect for listeners of R&B—as well as for fans of spoken word poetry.

For fans of: Hozier, Aloe Blacc, Sly Johnson

 Architect – C Duncan (Indie Pop/Alternative)

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C Duncan’s debut album, Architect is very relaxing, with beautiful airy harmonies—not completely different from those of the 60s—and simple instrumentation. This young artist has a sophisticated sound reminiscent of early pop/rock musicians, and each song has the ability to influence the mood of the listener—whether hopeful, joyous, or somber. Architect, while employing diverse sounds, is very cohesive, and is a very easy album to listen to.

For fans of: Sufjan Stevens, Nick Castro, The Beatles

 Eska – ESKA (Folk/Soul)

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Originally born in Zimbabwe, Eska’s self-named debut album is much like Clementine’s At Least for Now when it comes to its powerful lyrics and themes. However, ESKA is still remarkably unique with its eclectic mix of sounds and genres; it is one part jazz, one part folk, one part soul, and all parts poetry. Her powerful vocals are perfectly complimented by simple yet interesting instrumentation. ESKA is a record that is easy for fans of any time of music to fall in love with.

For fans of: Corinne Bailey Rae, Lianne La Havas, Etta James

 How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful – Florence + the Machine (Indie Rock/Neo Soul)

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Possibly one of the most well-known artists on this list in America, Florence + the Machine’s newest album has topped the charts all across the globe. With popular singles such as “Ship to Wreck,” How Big represents Florence + the Machine’s distinctive style: soulful, jazzy, and upbeat. However, this album is better-rounded and richer in sound than their previous works. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful is a record that will only make fans of Florence + the Machine stronger fans, and will certainly gain this indie rock group an even bigger following.

For fans of: Ingrid Michaelson, Brandon Flowers, Lana del Rey

 Matador – Gaz Coombes (Alt Rock/Britpop)

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Former frontman for Britpop bands the Jennifers and Supergrass, Gaz Coombes’ latest album Matador is a powerful one that is crafted with over two decades of musical experience and growth. The record—heartfelt and written genuinely--always seems to remain at the cusp of multiple emotions, allowing its listener to feel so powerful what Coombes was at the moment of each song’s conception. Matador is amazingly diverse, with sounds of psychedelica and electronica mixing artfully with rock. Coombes’ work is reminiscent of his past musical endeavors, yet is perfect for the 2015 alternative rock fan.

For fans of: Gorillaz, Supergrass, Muse

 Shedding Skin – Ghostpoet (British Rap)

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Ghostpoet is no stranger to a Mercury Prize nomination, being nominated of the prize in 2011. Shedding Skin is a great album for fans of rap, spoken word, as well as indie rock; Ghostpoet’s profound lyrics are backed by alternative rock instrumentals, distinguishing it from much of the mainstream rap of 2015. The album is beautifully crafted, telling its audience a story both honest and powerful. Compared to his previous albums, Shedding Skin seems to show a level of growth unexpected for an already talented musician. Ghostpoet’s latest release is great for a wide variety of listeners—including those who tend to stay away from rap.

For fans of: SBTRKT, Ty, the xx  

 In Colour – Jamie xx (Dubstep/Trip-Hop)

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Part of the 2010 Mercury Prize winner the xx, Jamie xx’s debut album In Colour is reminiscent of the dream pop band while focusing less on rock and more on electronica. The record employs the sounds of dubstep, glitch, and hip-hop to create a well-rounded and unique album. The psychedelic, trippy instrumentals are often complimented by dreamy lyrics—many times by fellow the xx member Romy—and each song is distinct while creating a masterly-crafted and cohesive album. In Colour is perfect for fans of trance music that are looking for an album easy yet exciting to listen to.

For fans of: The xx, Caribou, the Glitch Mob

 Hairless Toys – Róisín Murphy (Electronic Pop)

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Formerly half of acid jazz duo Moloko, Murphy creates a unique sound reminiscent of later disco in her latest album Hairless Toys. Her almost hypnotizing electronic beats and ethereal vocals upgrade her house roots of the 90′s to a more trance-like sound, with flavors of electrofunk and synthpop. An exciting and captivating album, Hairless Toys is extremely diverse, with songs that would appeal to modern fans of any electronica genre.

For fans of: Moloko, La Roux, Chromeo

 Are You Satisfied? – Slaves (Punk Revival)

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Likely the most exciting and humorous album on the shortlist, Slaves’ Are You Satisfied? is wickedly clever, with vicious guitar riffs and biting, frustrated lyrics. Perfect for fans of 90s and 2000s punk, the album is angsty, putting even the most sophisticated adult listener in touch with their inner teenage millennial. Slaves’ debut album is witty and exciting, recorded with the much-missed integrity of grungy, emo garage bands; however, Are You Satisfied? modernizes this aesthetic, making this album fit—however uniquely—into 2015.

For fans of: Weezer, The White Stripes, Vant

 Before We Forgot How to Dream – SOAK (Indie Folk/Dream Pop)

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At the age of 18, Irish singer-songwriter SOAK shows impressive talent with her airy and unique vocals and instrumentation in the album Before We Forgot How to Dream. The album is extremely powerful despite its simple sound, with lyrics that lament the loss of one’s childhood and delve into the modern teenage mind. That being said, Before We Forgot is exceptionally sophisticated and refined. SOAK’s debut album is a beautiful record that is easy to listen to, and will appeal to fans of dreamy folk ballads.

For fans of: Sinéad O’Connor, Tegan and Sara, the xx

 My Love is Cool – Wolf Alice (Post-Grunge)

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Wolf Alice’s debut album My Love is Cool—which follows two rough-edged EPs—shows the sheer ability of the alternative band to create edgy, deliberate music that is both clean and grungy. Each song is distinct, with quite a few different sounds and genres serving as inspiration throughout the album, including punk rock, folk, and electropop. Wolf Alice reworks two old tracks, and their cleaner sound shows the new-found professionalism of the band while adding to My Love a much-appreciated nod to Wolf Alice’s roots. Fans of many different styles of rock can find something they appreciate in this album.

For fans of: Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Kooks, Peggysue

The winner of the 2015 Mercury Prize Album of the Year will be announced November 20th on their website, and is guaranteed to be a tight race with so many talented musicians up for nomination.

 Who do you think will win? Let us know!

FIRST: name, major, classification, and hometown

 Adam Navara, Biomedical Engineering, Junior, San Antonio, TX

QUESTION NUMERO UNO: why did you join TEP?

I’ve just always had a love for writing and art, ever since I was in 5th grade and my awesome teacher, Ms. Aleyassin, instilled that in me. But I had never really done anything with it, other than my own writing, so when I started college I just really wanted to finally join an organization to foster that love.  TEP was that organization, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

QUESTION NUMERO TWO: what do you do in your free time?

Hahaha, I sleep when I can. I suppose I do that in my non-free time too sometimes though.

QUESTION THREE THREE THREE: favorite book, movie, poetry, tv show

 My favorite book is definitely Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut, really, really funny book and probably the best ending I’ve ever read in my life.  My favorite movie changes all the time, but I’ve always loved the first Pirates of the Caribbean.  Poetry changes even more than the movie, I love just being in the moment with poetry, so my favorite would always be one of the ones I had just read or heard that day.  Favorite TV show… I just finished watching the first two seasons of Rick and Morty which was really funny.  I’ve always loved Friends too, Phoebe’s the best.

QUETSION FO: if you could have dinner with any literary character who and why?

 Hmmmm, probably someone who could cook really well… I remember Pi Patel, from Life of Pi, cooking something with a lot of spices, which is how I cook, so that would probably be pretty good.  Plus I think he’d have an interesting perspective on the world and life.

 QUESTION FIVER: where is your favorite reading place?

 Somewhere outside and quiet.

QUESTION SIX: how would you describe your personal writing style?

 I’ve always thought I write like I speak, which is generally minimally.  However, I think most people write like they think, and my thoughts have always been long-winded and going off in several directions at once, which I think is how I write.  Long-winded. And with comma splices.  Lots and lots of comma splices.

QUESTION S-S-S-SEVEN: who do you draw inspiration from?

 My family, mostly.  My mom for her hard work and patience, my dad for the career he’s made for himself in science, which is something I strive to emulate, and my sister for her vitality and determination.

QUESTION EIGHT: if you could switch places with any literary character who and why?

Probably someone who’s got it made.  There aren’t really many of those in the literary world though.  I guess it would have to be one of the leads from a 19th century romance novel, like Jane Eyre or Pride and Prejudice.  They always seemed to end up rich and in love.

QUESTION NIIIIIINE: what is your favorite quote?

 From George Bernard Shaw’s play Back to Mathuselah: “You see things and you say ‘Why?’.  But I dream things that never were and I say ‘Why not?’.

 QUESTION TEN: what is your absolute dream job?

Annie Hwang

This is Annie Hwang, poet extraordinaire. Annie is a two time published author (third time coming soon), relentless blogger, and a junior in college.  Annie is a beyond amazing poet/student/overall human being. I had the immense privilege of being in high school with her when she was publishing her first two books and it was impressive, like soul crushingly impressive. Not to mention she has managed to keep up her literary momentum since entering college, and travelling across the world to South Korea. That is why this artist spotlight is an exclusive interview with the inspiring Annie Hwang.

• What’s your major, what year are you, and how old are you? My major is English Language & Literature. Surprise, surprise. But really, it is a surprise because I am living in South Korea. I am in my third year, and I am 21 years old.

• What university do you currently attend? Seoul National University

• You’re essentially a poet, but do you dabble in other literary forms (i.e. prose)? I think anyone who likes to write has the dream of one day writing that Nobel prize-winning novel or international bestseller. Although I feel most in my element with poetry, I am always dabbling in prose.

• How did you come upon the decision that you were going to publish your works and what are some steps you took to get there? By sophomore year in high school, I had accumulated a significant amount of writing. I cannot vouch for the quality, but the quantity was there, and seeing as I was already keen on sharing them on my blogs, my father suggested I bind them in a book for family and friends. Publishing a book had always been my long-term goal, but it had never occurred to me before then that I could start off small, by self-publishing. I looked for companies near my area and became my own nagging editor and agent.

• How has your personal writing style evolved over years, particularly since being in college? No matter how many times I despair that I have reached my limit, when I look back on my old writings, I always discover that I have changed. In regards to prose, I can see the influences I received from my favorite authors at the time, and with poetry, I can see the different themes that dominate for each period of my life. From God to death to love to etc.

• What are some tips to keeping a blog alive and thriving? When I had a lot of time on my hands in middle school and high school, I did a lot of networking on blogging sites. I supported other people, exposed myself to them, posted about things that would interest others. Now I mostly write and post for myself, not as consistently or promptly, but I still gain just as much, if not more followers, by simply focusing on my own goals and passions.

• You are so young and so amazingly accomplished, do you have any advice for other young artists trying to build themselves up? It would be a nightmare to think I am "accomplished," past tense. I am far from being accomplished, far from knowing enough, or having done enough. I am still on the track, like most people my age. I would hate to give advice to people younger than me who have age on their side and probably talent, too, but - There is no secret: Learn to love something. You will know by the hours of energy you pour into it. You will know by how much it hurts when you realize how much you suck at it. Then you will fall in love all over again.

• Who/what have been some of your biggest inspirations to keep you going professionally as a poet? Emily Dickinson, Anne Carson, Richard Siken, Ocean Vuong, Louise Glück, are some poets that come to mind, whose writings never fail to inspire me. People who have read and sent me messages telling me that I am inspiration, keep me inspired.

• What has been, for you personally, your biggest accomplishment? My biggest accomplishment was self-publishing my second book, Recovery Ritual. Sure, I want to burn it along with my first one. But the pride I felt at the time is unforgettable.

• How does one maintain motivation to endure the process of publishing a book? I am so awful at tedious things. Why can't I be popular enough already so that people want to do that stuff for me? Self-publishing was the most tedious thing I had to endure as a grade school student. I motivated myself with the surge of excitement I felt at the idea of controlling every aspect of my work of art. It was like designing how my blog would look. It was tedious, but at the same time, I could find the fun in it once I change my attitude toward it.

• What gets you in the zone to write (snack foods, types of music/playlists, movies, books, podcasts, people) Complete silence in my room. Dim lighting. Early morning or late at night.

• What excites you most about your future in poetry or anything literary (Like is there anything your looking forward to or even a small goal? you’re hoping to accomplish) These days, I am coming up with a new collection for my college years. I am very excited because it is a whole new writing style, whole new themes I am dealing with, and completely new "self" that I have created and discovered. I don't know what will happen to the manuscript once it is complete, but this small, humble personal project is something that is happening on the side, with no particular deadline or stress. It grows alongside my life.

Shown below are the two incredible books published by Annie Hwang, and if you’re interested in reading them feel free to check them out on Amazon. To keep up to date with Annie’s most current works and to be apart of her poetic life adventures follow her blog on Tumblr.

Annie’s blog

http://www.somstory.tumblr.com

Recovery Ritual

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Our Earthly Eyes

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Happy Sunday, everyone!  If you’re like me, sometimes you just need some goofy, lo-fi, feminist tunes to get you through the week.  I just finished polishing off a short (19-minute) playlist and you can check it out here.  Keep reading to find out more about the bands I picked and why I picked them!

Siri, Open Tinder//Childbirth, from the album “Women’s Rights”

Childbirth is a band from Seattle, Washington and is made up of three females, all of whom have previously been in punk-ish, feminist bands--Stacy, Bree, and Julia.  With lyrics like “chacos--swipe left,” “tech bro--swipe left,” and “group shot--which one are you,” it’s a simple song but great, none-the-less.  If you need something simple, yet funny, I definitely recommend this song.  If you end up liking this one, they have plenty of other great tracks on this album including, “Tech Bro,” which casually mentions mansplaining, and “Will You Let the Dogs In?” which is just fun & simple and if you have a partner and own a dog, you might find you relate to this song even more.  Listen to this album, have a good time, enjoy your day. (Image source)

Wishlist//Potty Mouth, from the album “Hell Bent” (Explicit)

Potty Mouth, who hail from Northampton, Massachusetts, is similar to Childbirth, as they are made up of three female members--Abby, Ally, and Victoria--and full of punk angsty-ness.  Their 2013 album, “Hell Bent,” was released through Old Flame Records in the U.S. and Marshall Teller Records in the U.K.  “Wishlist” is no exception to their sound, either.  When listening to this, you’ll probably be transported back to your high school days, which were filled with teenage angst and an overwhelming desire to leave your town.  Mixed with a quicker beat and the irony of your high school self, you’ll have a good time listening to this, I promise. (Image source)

Cat Fancy//Tacocat, from the album “Take Me to Your Dealer”

Bringing it back to the first song on this playlist, Tacocat is related to Childbirth (or vice versa) due to the fact that one of the members of Tacocat, Bree, is a member of Childbirth.  In addition to Bree, the band also consists of Emily Nokes, Eric Randall, and Lelah Maupin.  Based off of just the title of this song, if you’re thinking this song is about Cat Fancy, the magazine, then you’re on the right track.  I love this song just for its silliness and simple lyrics w/ a lo-fi sound.  If you’re a cat person, you might even like this song more than I do.  I’m still waiting for them to put out a song about dogs… (Image source)

Entertain//Sleater-Kinney, from the album “The Woods” (Explicit)

Alright, so this isn’t as goofy of a song as the above tracks, but if I’m going to make a feminist, punk-based playlist, of course Sleater-Kinney has to be on there.  They’re my absolute favorite and I totally have a crush on Carrie Brownstein (but then again, who doesn’t.)  Upbeat, with plenty of distortion, it’s a great way to give you the motivation you need for the day.  “Don’t drag me down, I’m not falling down” is all you need to hear to gain the confidence you need for the day.  Doubting yourself?  Make this song move it’s way through your eardrums and you’ll be all set. (Image source)

Will You Let the Dogs In?//Childbirth, from the album “Women’s Rights”

I know I mentioned this song above, but I just really felt like I needed to add a dog-related song to the playlist since “Cat Fancy” was included.  Short, fast, and to the point, I love this one.  Honestly, I’ll probably listen to this quite a bit this week just because I’m really feeling it & I hope you enjoy it, too. (Image source)

TV//Colleen Green, from the album “I Want to Grow Up”

From Los Angeles, California, Colleen Green has developed a fun 10-track album entitled, “I Want to Grow Up.”  While this track definitely doesn’t have the same feel as the other songs I have listed above, it still maintains that lo-fi sound.  Laid-back, this song is dedicated to the relationship we have to TV, told from Green’s perspective.  Simple drums & guitars, with distortion.  Easy peasy. (Image Source)

Hey Girl//Tacocat, from the album “Nvm”

Alright, so I’m repeating artists, but this is another song I just really love.  While not directly silly, I really enjoy the band’s ironic humour throughout this song.  Ever been cat-called?  Pump this through your headphones and just jam!  “Oh, it helps my self-esteem, ‘cause you finally noticed me.”  I couldn’t have said it any better myself.

When it comes to the local music scene, it may be surprising to hear there is more than meets the ear. Bands in Bryan-College Station have found growing support by fans to do what they do best, and Odd Folks knows this all too well. What started out as just a classroom experiment became something so much greater. When Marco Pisterzi, Jacob Pavel and Michael Martin joined a music class in the spring of 2014, their sole intention was to start a small, folk music group, hence the name “Odd Folks.” But, according to Martin, the band's drummer, the trio soon realized their talents lied elsewhere. “We found out pretty quickly that we were much better at playing pop punk/indie rock,” said Martin. “We recruited Alex Knoll to help write songs midway through the semester and began playing shows at Rev's and other venues.” Soon after Knoll's addition to the group, a fifth member, Nic Shields, also joined. And thus, Odd Folks in its current iteration was born. The band was well on its way towards achieving their pop punk dream, playing local venues like Rev's, Grand Stafford Theater and New Republic Brewery. When asked if Odd Folks drew inspiration from any fellow pop punk performers, Martin maintained that the band was very much its own thing with a truly original sound. “We are trying to establish ourselves as our own brand of indie rock/pop punk,” Martin said. “Being that it's 2015 means we have the opportunity to craft a new sound that harkens back to the bands that inspired us while infusing a lot of what we like to listen to now.” Odd Folks certainly know how to play tribute to the bands for which they show admiration. The band is playing a show at Rev's on Halloween night with several other bands, all of which are set to cover one of their favorite pop punk groups. Odd Folks will be going as Simple Plan, while Corusco takes on Taking Back Sunday, LUCA covers Manchester Orchestra, and The Cheap Haircuts honor The Front Bottoms in what is sure to be an excellent way to spend Halloween night. In addition to these great performances, the band also plans to release its debut album, 'Monica,' the same night. But it never would have been possible without the support of the local music scene. During a summer tour, Odd Folks played shows all around the state, but Martin says his favorite show was the one they played here in town. “My favorite show we got to play was right back in our stomping grounds at Grand Stafford Theater.” Martin said. He mentioned that this was an important show, not only for them, but for their friends over in Hodera, who had just finished up a tour in New Jersey. Martin was hoping to show the band a good time here in Texas, and was more than pleased with the results. “We really wanted to give them a good crowd and good merch sales, and boy did the community come through!” Martin said. “We got to play an incredible crowd and we were able to give Hodera an insight into how supportive and excited the music scene is in Downtown Bryan, so that, for us, made it one of our most exciting and memorable shows.” The band's debut album, 'Monica,' is available for preorder at oddfolks.bandcamp.com for only $5. When you preorder, you receive instant access to 3 tracks plus the album in its entirety the moment its released. The album will also be available for streaming on Spotify.

You may have seen the posters around campus, you made have heard the announcements by some of your professors, and you may have seen a screening of one or two of the films shown leading up to this event.  What event you ask? Well, Dustin Lance Black, filmmaker and activist, visited Aggieland this past Wednesday and it was all the rage.  (If you like film, that is).

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This entire past week provided plenty of promotion for this new event that was coming to campus.  There were screenings of three of his films--Virginia, J. Edgar, and Milk.  There was also a reception early Wednesday, before the panel was set to begin that evening.

“An Artist’s Journey: Dustin Lance Black” began with an introduction by Daniel Humphrey, in which he mentioned which organizations sponsored the event, including the Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, the university libraries, College of Medicine, the English department, ResLife, Aggie Allies and the College of Liberal Arts, amongst many others.  Following the acknowledgement of all of the effort required by so many people to organize such an event, Dustin Lance Black took the stage!

Black discussed his life, from the past until now (which makes sense, duh).  He began with his experience growing up as a Mormon in San Antonio, Texas.  This background eventually gave way into how he knew he was different--and how the church told him different was bad.  He conveyed how the struggle with this, whilst not fully understanding it as a child, interrupted his childhood and impacted his adult life.  Following this narrative of ‘difference meaning hell,’ Black went on to say how he lived, scared to tell his "good, Southern, Mormon mother."

Dustin Lance Black also talked about his experience leaving the church, moving to California with his mom, brothers, and new step-father.  Granting him the opportunity to go to UCLA, his family eventually moved all of the way across the country to Washington, D.C.  Adding this element to his life story opened up other doors within his life.

Black then relayed how he came out to his mother and the lack of acceptance he received.  The struggles he had during his college years might have spoken to many LGBTQ+ individuals in the audience that night, providing a sense of support for the students--a narrative of how not being accepted, doesn’t mean it’s the end of your world.  Finally, he spoke about how his mother came around to accept and love her son for exactly who he was, and this, too, possibly gave some hope to some of the students in the audience.  While his personal life was a large chunk of what Black talked about, it wasn’t all of it--he also spoke of his career, the ups, the downs, and everything in between.

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From activism within the LGBTQ+ community to creating inspiring films with a political message, Dustin Lance Black is a hard worker.  Proving himself day in and day out, Black's efforts are creating change in this world--overturning Prop 8 in California is just one of the things he helped to accomplish, creating a more equal community.  But this isn't to say he solved everyone's problems and he realizes that, too.

Post-overturn of Prop 8, Black received a call from his older brother.  His brother came out to him and was very upset at his recent break up.  While Black was excited and hopeful for the change that his brother was going to see (in regards to marriage), his brother did not have as positive of an outlook.  His brother, born in Texas and living in Virginia, still had the potential to be fired for his sexuality, regardless of the fact that he may one day be able to marry his partner.  Hearing Dustin Lance Black acknowledge both sides of the story was refreshing, as marriage is not the end-all-be-all for the LGBTQ+ community.

While his speech about his life experiences had its ups and downs, Black pulled the audience back together in a passionate call for progress.  Through discussing his life story, he said he hoped to rally others to improve the world through passion and leadership.  

Following his call for action, the floor was opened up to questions.  People asked a wide variety of questions, but some of the most interesting/most applicable ones, in my opinion, were: • What are the most valuable aspects of directing and screenwriting? • DLB: knowing the language of filmmaking (visual) and how to develop strong characters for your story. • What are the most important questions for a writer to ask themselves? • How is telling a story from the past going to influence the future? • How is the story personal [to the writer]? • What is the most important element of storytelling? • Being able to quickly summarize your story in 2 sentences or less. • Being able to successfully tell what the story is about and what the goal of telling this story is. • When creating a film, what role do you prefer to have? • writer-producer, because you are able to have more control over the finished product.

It’s Saturday morning, everyone is still asleep from a night out of partying or going to Texas Grand Slam Prelims, and a new coffee shop just opened up just down the road from A&M.  The shop is ‘Minuti Coffee’ and they are wonderful!  If you need a break from Sweet Eugene’s, Lupa’s, or Mugwall’s and are tired of your daily Starbucks ritual, you’re in luck!  

Minuti is an Italian-based coffee shop, but they also make their own chocolates and balsamic vinegar.  All of their coffee beans are roasted and brought in directly from Modena, Italy.  Owned by Ardavan Motamedi, the company originally started in Houston and is expanding their reach; while most of the locations are confined to the Houston-area, this is College Station’s first Minuti Coffee.  The atmosphere is different that Sweet Eugene’s or Mugwalls--and I mean that in a good way!  Minuti adds its own personality to the local coffee community in Bryan-College Station.

Mr. Motamedi originally got his start in the coffee business through his family, which he still still carries out to this day.  Now that they’ve been in this business for a while, they distribute their products to over 25 different countries.  However, the U.S. is the only country that has retail locations, and even with their retail locations, Texas is the only state that can claim to have such a wonderful coffee shop.

Minuti Coffee is a sister-shop of Momenti Coffee and the idea behind the name is that Mr. Motamedi wants people to spend a minute drinking their coffee, not just a moment.  In addition, Motamedi aims to utilize this coffee shop as a social space for friends to gather and enjoy time with each other.  An open floorplan, comforting decor, and friendly employees is a great way Minuti Coffee will help to facilitate Motamedi’s wish.  

Design-wise, the owner went with a European-designer.  Motamedi picked the setup of the shop to combine European-look with American style, fully setting the atmosphere for his new shop.  The soft glow of table lamps atop of tables with modern bar stools, a beautiful espresso machine in the corner, plenty of natural light, and pops of color create the wonderful atmosphere that is present in College Station’s newest coffee shop.

In regards to the actual coffee itself, it was delicious!  I ordered a vanilla soy latte and I’m pretty sure it was one of the best lattes I’ve ever had.  The soy milk was perfectly steamed and flawlessly balanced with the volume of espresso.  The foam was light & airy and complemented the sweet, caffeine-laden drink I was sipping in a corner table.

Food is also readily available here. They have muffins, scones, fruit, and sandwiches, among other items.   While I didn’t try any, it sure did look delicious and many others picked up something to eat while I was there.

After my experience today, I certainly will be stopping back by and picking up another soy latte.  Whether it’s for a study session or just hanging out with friends, Minuti Coffee would be a great option for you.  At Minuti you can say hello, grab a cup o’ joe, and leave feeling like you’ve had a delightful experience to get your day started.

-Alex Cowan 

FIRST: name, major, classification, and hometown

Alyssa Brady Supply Chain Management with International Studies Minor Junior Houston

QUESTION NUMERO UNO: why did you join TEP?

I first happened upon this wonderful organization when I was a wee little freshman and I saw this really pretty sign that said “Do you like poetry and pretty words?” and I was like YES I DO CAN I JOIN THIS ORGANIZATION?! I just think that it is amazing to work with other cool kids and make a magazine filled with prose, poetry, and art made by our fellow students!

QUESTION NUMERO TWO: what do you do in your free time?

In my free time I like to go on spontaneous road trips to avoid completing my undergraduate degree planner. Also, I like to rewatch The Office to practice my Dwight monologues.

QUESTION THREE THREE THREE: favorite book, movie, poetry, tv show

Little Miss Sunshine Derrick C. Brown The Office I can’t decide on a book

QUETSION FO: if you could have dinner with any literary character who and why?

I would like to have dinner with Enzo the dog from The Art of Racing in the Rain. But I would like Enzo to be able to speak to me and not just have me read his mind. Ironically, there is this Irish saying that says, “If you ask a dog a question and he answers, you will surely die,” I hope this doesn’t apply during my dinner with Enzo.

QUESTION FIVER: where is your favorite reading place?

I will read anywhere that is near a window. This means cars, planes, coffee shops, my bed, just sitting down on the floor by a window (I like options).

QUESTION EIGHT: if you could switch places with any literary character who and why? here is this book called Ireland by Robert Delaney, where the main character literally walks around Ireland and meets the coolest people and figures everything out and I would like that.

QUESTION NIIIIIINE: what is your favorite quote?

“Get me some ice and a Styrofoam bucket”

QUESTION TEN: what is your absolute dream job?

FIRST: name, major, classification, and hometown:

Nina Kathleen Rodriguez “Big Baller and Shot Caller” Smith (I’ll tone it down now because really who actually thinks that highly of themselves) Junior journalism major from ArlingFUN, Texas

QUESTION NUMERO UNO: why did you join TEP?

Because all the cool kids were doing it. What do you mean that is not a substantive enough answer?!

QUESTION NUMERO TWO: what do you do in your free time?

 I do know myself to be a person who occasionally relishes in free time a bit too much. “Free time” is really “professional procrastinating time.”  I often bind one of my close pals into hours of contemplative and blindly “profound” conversation while driving the 2818/Hwy 6 loop around College Station. However, you might hear me laughing in my room alone to many a Grace Helbig or Hannah Hart video, and delving into the latest pursuits of the inimitably wonderful Mindy Kaling. In my more no-nonsense pursuits I listen to podcasts from the Nerdist Network and spend hours at Om Grown Yoga Studio in Downtown Bryan finding Nirvana. You can decide for yourself whether or not that last bit is a joke. Hehe.

QUESTION THREE THREE THREE: favorite book, movie, poetry, tv show

4 bookz - I have a hard time trying to decide between the Encyclopedia Britannica and Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by William Shakespeare. Both scholarly choices, but I’ll go with the latter to appeal to the literarily parched masses. Oh and by “Shakespeare” I actually mean Mindy Kaling. Yes, a scholarly choice indeed. A real confection of literature I know. 4 poetry - In studying Marianne Moore, I was rather enthralled with her mark made on early twentieth century American literature. The whole idea of her and Ezra Pound roving around New York City together in the 1920s is very romantic and cool. Plus, she was one of the first feminist writers/poets when the idea of gender disparity was a million times more prevalent than it is today. She was making bold moves while creating some of the most tangible and real work I’ve ever read. 4 preferred on-screen entertainment - I do love a good Sleepless in Seattle and, as one could guess, I watch The Mindy Project religiously.

QUETSION FO: if you could have dinner with any literary character who and why?

I think my 5-year-old self would be highly disappointed if I did not answer Junie B. Jones. She was my world during my early elementary school coming of age, and I paid homage to her in naming my first car Junie B. Jetta. Plus, there would be very little pressure to ask the right questions because she (assuming she has not aged traditionally) is six.

QUESTION FIVER: where is your favorite reading place?

Aspirational Nina would say in the nook of a dimly lit coffee shop with a mug of dark roast by my side. Every once in a while, aspirational Nina will peer up above the cover of her erudite literature selection and contemplate the fragility of life and the essence of existentialism.  However, real Nina admits that reading only ever happens in bed right before she’s about to go to sleep.  Nothing romantic or mysterious about it truly.

QUESTION SIX: how would you describe your personal writing style?

 A Venti quad soy latte with no whip.

QUESTION S-S-S-SEVEN: who do you draw inspiration from?

 Would you be surprised if I said Mindy Kaling? No? Okay, good talk.

QUESTION EIGHT: if you could switch places with any literary character who and why?

 Hester Prynne. She had it easy.

QUESTION NIIIIIINE: what is your favorite quote?

“I prefer men to cauliflowers” – Mrs. Dalloway in Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway. I read that about a year ago and have had it on my wall ever since. I don’t really have a quote that I’ve kept constant from age 12, but I like this one because it reminds me to be frivolous and that it’s okay to prefer men to cauliflowers. Also, good generic go-to of mine is “don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.” While it is hella indistinctive, its profoundly important. i.e. when trying to complete school, make friends, mold relationships, do anything, etc.

QUESTION TEN: what is your absolute dream job?

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ACL 2015 has reached its unfortunate conclusion, and as I sit here icing my legs and trying to coerce my dog into bringing me a bottle of water and some Advil, I thought I might write up some post-show superlatives about the festival. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed waiting in a 30-minute line to use the port-o-potty.

Most “chill, but not too chill” show: Father John Misty played an incredible set, and proved his talent extends far beyond the recording studio. Father John (he told me I could call him that) not only entertained a hot crowd with his coolest songs – old and new – but also managed to inject some comedy into his act, roasting several girls who had their phones out for a prolonged amount of time, and at one point looking over at his drummer and dryly stating “you're stupid.”

Most energetic performance: I've seen Walk The Moon twice before, but this was by far my favorite performance of theirs. It may have been the $31 bottle of wine I had just polished off, but these guys kept the audience on their feet the entire time, never allowing a lull to stop us from dancing. Their new album mixed well with their old one, and I've since contributed to at least 30 million of the 118 million views on YouTube of their hit song “Shut Up and Dance With Me.”

Most “I think my soul is leaving my body” performance: Florence and The Machine rocked the Samsung stage for over an hour and a half, and I don't think lead singer Florence Welch stopped moving the entire time. Her interpretive dance-style performance accompanied with her strong, confident vocals had me singing along to all of my favorite songs, and wondering if Florence was just an angel sent to us from heaven, and if the night was even real at all.

Best Uber Driver: This award has to go out to Veronica, my Friday night driver, of whom I spent over an hour and a half with while stuck in traffic. Our conversations ranged from our favorite country artists (to which I replied: none) to how she met her husband at a military base in Puerto Rico and everything in between. Thanks for the ride, Veronica, and if you're reading this, I hope my $57 trip fee will go towards your son John's tuition at the Catholic School he's wanting to attend.

Best food: This was a tough one, but I believe the award must be given to The Peached Tortilla, who's brisket tacos gave me just the right amount of energy to sit through Disclosure's hour and a half of random noises and sounds.

Congratulations to all the award winners. Your prizes are imaginary but important (just like my dreams) and I look forward to seeing more of everyone's work as the year progresses.

– Parker Breaux

Davis Land, Telecommunications and Media Studies, Whitehouse, TX

 QUESTION NUMERO UNO: why did you join TEP?

 Well it seemed like a good idea at the time…

 I felt I had something to offer. TEP had only existed for a semester previously and the semester I joined it was my first semester here (how many times can I use ‘semester’ in this sentence). I was excited to be involved with something that fit my interests that was so new and full of potential.

 QUESTION NUMERO TWO: what do you do in your free time?

 Hahahahahaha.

 QUESTION THREE THREE THREE: favorite book, movie, poetry, tv show

 Oh favorites are so difficult. Currently I’m reading The Machine Question by David Gunkel, which I’m enjoying so far. It’s non-fiction (I don’t read a lot of novels, shamefully) and about how we are to ethically interact with artificial intelligence. Some of my “all time favorites” in different genres are: Repeating Ourselves by Robert Fink (non-fiction), The Captain Asks For A Show of Hands by Nick Flynn (poetry), the movie Children of Men, and the show Twin Peaks.

 QUETSION FO: if you could have dinner with any literary character who and why?

 Crowley from Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s Good Omens. I feel like a dinner with him would lead me to involvement in some biblical heist that neither of us really wanted to be involved with and we’d both act pretty indifferent towards it. It would be really funny.

 QUESTION FIVER: where is your favorite reading place?

 Definitely my back porch. It’s not really that pretty or comfortable but I’m always able to concentrate there.

 QUESTION SIX: how would you describe your personal writing style?

 I tend to write (in my poems) like I’m forgetting what I’m saying as I’m writing it, as if you’re only hearing one side of a conversation. I also tend to use metaphors of being trapped inside things or of things breaking open. A lot of stuff happens (physically) to other stuff in my poems. In prose I’m very minimal, often repeating phrases and really trying to hone in on a particular feeling through repetition and a child-like diction.

 QUESTION S-S-S-SEVEN: who do you draw inspiration from?

 I cite Nick Flynn like he’s the only poet I’ve read. Kiki Petrosino’s book, Hymn for the Black Terrific had a profound effect on how I think about form.

 QUESTION EIGHT: if you could switch places with any literary character who and why?

 I imagine in some book somewhere there is a rock described sitting at the bottom of a riverbed. I would like to be the rock. Seems peaceful.

 QUESTION NIIIIIINE: what is your favorite quote?

 “Work harder.”

 QUESTION TEN: what is your absolute dream job?

As you may be aware of by looking at the latest Coachella/Shaky Knees/ACL lineup, the names of bands have become increasingly obscure (or so it seems.) However, it’s all about getting the reference! Some of the most creative musician names pull from literature, and it may be a coincidence but some of my favorite books contain the namesakes of some super cool bands.

Here are five bands that are worth a listen (named for literature worth a read!)

1. The Boo Radleys

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If you’ve read Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, you are probably familiar with the name Boo Radley. Boo is a mysterious man who is ostracized by the town, but later saves the Finch children from Bob Ewell. A late-80’s and 90’s British alt pop and psychedelic band, the Boo Radleys use their name to put themselves on the outside of society, allowing them to push boundaries and create diversity through their music.

2. Forgive Durden

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Of course I would find a band which references Chuck Palahniuk, specifically his book Fight Club.  Seattle-based indie rock/alternative band Forgive Durden get their name from the novel’s mysterious, anti-consumerism antagonist Tyler Durden. Their first album is also called Wonderland, which has darkened versions of Lewis Carrol pieces like “Beware the Jubjub Bird and Shun the Frumious Bandersnatch” that were given a dose of Palahniuk-esque cynicism. Additionally, this already very literary-named band has albums that play like stories, adding an extra dimension to their already interesting music!

3. Heaven 17

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Heaven 17 actually steal their name from a fictional band The Heaven Seventeen from Anthony Burgess’s 1960’s dystopia A Clockwork Orange. The pop band in the book is number four on the charts, which may explain why Heaven 17 choose to be named after a “successful” fiction band. The 1980’s synthpop, new wave band has very danceable and exciting music, which is honestly much different than the classical music the dark A Clockwork Orange protagonist Alex listens to.

4. Atreyu 

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California-based metalcore band Atreyu is named for the main character in the German book The Neverending Story. Though I am not a metal fan, I can appreciate the way Atreyu takes the whimsy of the book and alters it into a more modern, hard-core sound. However, I do wish that they would make a cover of the film’s theme, complete with an animatronic luck dragon!

5. The Doors 

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Believe it or not, the 1960’s rock band is named after literature! Aldous Huxley’s book The Doors of Perception explores a trip he had on a psychedelic drug mescaline, and the title also borrows from a line of poet William Blake’s verse. The wild Jim Morrison’s charisma and the Doors’ trippy rock music makes it easy to see why they selected their name.

Personally, I like to listen to music very quietly when I read, and now that I have another book to check out (I am yet to read Huxley’s The Doors of Perception) I think I’ll give listening to the Doors while reading it a go! Additionally, these bands are further proof that you can gain some of the best inspiration from art that already exists. Now go out there, read some books, listen to some music, and gain that inspiration!

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I can say with almost complete confidence that I do not remember a single day in my lifetime where I was not in the middle of some book. But I also can’t remember more than a few books that actually drastically changed the way I think. Well, over spring break, I finished John Berger’s Ways of Seeing, and it is definitely one of those books.

Ways of Seeing is a book format of a mini-series that Berger made for BBC in the early 70′s. Berger is an all-around artist. He writes novels and poetry, paints, and produces art criticism, and is just generally an enfant terrible of the British art world. Well Ways of Seeing isn’t even pointed art criticism. It’s technically just a relatively short essay about art criticism. It is actually seven essays that aren’t really connected. Three of those essays don’t even have words. They are only a series of images from Western art, mostly paintings, arranged in a way that makes you rethink their meaning. But this slim book managed to make me rethink my entire outlook on western art.

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You see, I love art. I love museums. They’re rarely inviting, honestly. They are cold reminders of the past, usually the calculatedly beautiful side of history, and they beg to be seen, without giving any concessions. I enjoy the connection to history, and there’s something sobering about learning about people and cultures different from mine. Museums idealize these people and places, showing us the beautiful side of things and often leaving out the nasty.

Berger confronts some actually evil things as they are presented in the often overly stylized world of art. Take misogyny for example. I have always been quick to excuse paintings of nude women as less than inappropriate and objectifying, because hey it’s art right? Berger doesn’t let that excuse stand. Paintings of nude women, especially in the context in which they were painted, is the extreme of objectification as well as a great enforcer of heteronormative and restrictive gender roles. Woman is literally turned into a thing the man can buy, and he props up his own masculinity when he hangs her on his wall. Berger attacks oil paintings themselves in much the same way. While some artists were able to transcend their times, most oil paintings were produced for rich patrons as status symbols. This book made me look at art too as a vehicle for the propagation of divisive social systems and sometimes as a thing primarily concerned with money and consumerism.

If this all sounds a little cynical, well, sure, it could be. I was a little bit annoyed with Berger when I finished it. But it was one of those books that still has me thinking about how I view my world weeks later. Museums aren’t quite safe anymore. Now I see the elitism involved in the system, and I have to change how I look at museums in general. Can I, as a consumer, appreciate the beauty of some of these pieces without supporting the oppressive luxury that truly produced them? I think the answer to that is yes, to a degree. One can marvel at the excesses of the past and learn from them how to treat people better, if you want. Ways of Seeing is a quick read that isn’t a light read, but, if you’re looking to challenge yourself, I definitely suggest it.

So we are aware that his next novel to hit the big screen is Paper Towns, which will be coming to us live at the end of July. *excitement*

I was slightly disheartened when I realized Looking For Alaska wouldn’t be the next major motion picture, solely because it is my FAVORITE of the John Green classics, but I’m slowly moving on. Plus, Paper Towns is going to be such an excellent summer movie because it revolves around A ROAD TRIP hayyyyyy.

But not only that, the entire premise of the story is the idea of how we (because we all do it) romanticize people. It’s so easy to fall in love with the “idea” of someone or something, but it’s not nearly as easy to recognize it. The main character of Paper Towns, Q, is hopelessly in love with his spunky, fascinating neighbor, Margo. He takes his infatuation to a new realm because the idea of Margo that he’s so “in love” with, is completely different than who she actually is. SO when she goes missing and he goes on his cross-country trek to find her, he slowly has to realize that maybe the girl he’s looking for and the girl he will find might not actually be the same person.

I’m incredibly interested in this storyline because so many other authors THRIVE off of this disillusioned idea of love. Edward Cullen and his (slightly twisted) obsession with this RANDOM girl in his bio class???  He doesn’t even know her, yet he thinks she’s larger than life. John Green brings to light how much we, so often, imagine people instead of actually meeting people. It’s refreshing and much appreciated.

Let’s also just mention that Nat Wolff will be playing Q so you better believe I will be there to support him.