An open letter to myself about 2017 and looking towards 2018. I'm proud to have had a great and successful 2017. It was far from perfect, but I can be confident in the habits and skills I honed. 2018 is about commitment and execution, a continuation of the expectations and accomplishments I've set on myself.
Despite the office dress code being much more lax than most people expect, any level of deviation from the perceived bar becomes quite socially controversial. I despise that, because the masses are self-censoring and it suffocates creativity. I rant about it.
Genuine, gentle, nuanced opinion on the Charlottesville protests, quickly reviewing the obvious [Fuck Trump. Fuck Nazi's. Black Lives Matter.] and expanding on some nuances [They're justifiably angry, there's so much worse, we should be optimistic.] I'm trying to be fair, honest, balanced, truthful. Persuasive if you're so inclined. Enjoy! Take it as a whole! Cheers!
If you're struggling with your own challenges/goals/closing out resolutions, please let me offer some realistic, if not sobering advice. But, much like this being my own scream into the void, I'm also more optimistic than is, perhaps, called for. Keep doing your thing. I believe in you!
Reread Americanah for a book club. 4.54/5.00. Could touch on poverty more. Occasionally bias/generalizes. But all the characters and their stories are great. Has astute observations and situations that are well worth understanding and dissecting.
Rant incoming. I am mad about a lot of things, but I'm particularly mad about inaction. We can't just sit back, complain and expect things to get fixed. We have to be part of the solution. That'll be tomorrow, but today I'm going to spit pure anger at those lazy scumbags who didn't find time to vote in the democratic republic we're blessed enough to be a part of.
I’d give this book a strong 4.10. It is great, but it’s difficult to read. I learned something, indoctrinated myself into a different culture. The book made me think deeply about what it is and what the author was trying to convey, and I think I did understand and appreciate it. I don't have much reference books because it's such an alien culture to me. But that might have made me appreciate it more.
4.59/5.00 Great Graphic novel, also very representative in a field that could use it. Worth analyzing and pouring over. Beautiful all around.
It's a dark and scary world out there, friends. Sometimes I'd also rather just sit inside, wrapped in blankets. But we've got ourselves. We've got each other. It'll work out, but it's fine if it doesn't.
Festival Season is over, and this year the beautiful culmination of EZoo, Gov Ball, and the Meadows ended in Dirty Bird Campout. I've been playing with this piece for a bit, trying to give some voice to the high that comes from the shared festival experience that I've come to love.
4.20/5.00 Not without flaws but the world building, philosophical quandaries, unique narration make this instant classic worth reading and discussing. Will watch and update with Blade Runner.
5th book club book. 4.17/5.00 Definitely worth reading, unique in it’s focus and characters. I think I may have missed some of the nuances as I’ve never read the Bible. Some very well written passages lent to a good flow and pace. Interesting perspectives on women’s health and their histories. I thought it may have missed an opportunity to expand on Dinah’s experiences raising a child.
Excellent. A spiritual successor to Catcher in the Rye, but more resonate in my mind. I highly suggest everyone puts this on their required reading list, and revisit as often as possible. It's short, nuanced, striking honest, and fulfilling. A masterpiece. 4.96/5.00
I do a bit of a review/analysis, reflecting on what the book has taught me and why I love it so.
Get Out is just an excellent movie, worth watching two or three times at least. I highlight a couple interesting things I pick up and offer high praise for it's acting, shots, score, plot, humor, and message. Everyone should watch! [SPOILERS]
What is Originality and why do we keep searching for it? What do we do if Originality is just a question incorrectly asked? I argue the Originality isn't a good goal and present that Authenticity as the better alternative
Read A Scanner Darkly and watched the movie with friends
Overall, great book, great movie, highly recommended. 4.35 Book, 4.1 movie. Great universe and interesting story. Plus for such a unique blend of sci-fi and poverty/drug addiction. Possibly would require me to reread closer for a deeper understanding and appreciation.