My time at Millbrook High School has been a journey, full of incredible people and incredible experiences. Over the past four years (particularly the past two, shout-out to IB), I have become a more educated and well-rounded individual, but more importantly, I have developed deep relationships with amazing people.
I was unsure of myself, and of who I eventually wanted to be, when I began my life at Millbrook. I didn't know many of my classmates, the classes were new and challenging, and I didn't really know where I was going (both literally and figuratively).
Sure, I made some great friends and memories along the way, but high school really took a turn for the better once junior year started. Driving to school and off-campus lunches were great, but what really made the difference was the community of students and teachers that I had the privilege to meet. I went from knowing a couple of people in each of my classes to becoming a member of a family of over a hundred new people, with whom I shared similar interests, ideals, and beliefs. It was this family that really made high school something meaningful to me. It was this family that supported me, encouraged me, and really helped to show me what it means to be a conscientious and open-minded individual.
It was this family that helped to make me who I am today, and for this, I am immeasurably grateful.
This blog is, in essence, a thank you. To my friends, I can't tell you enough how much you mean to me. As our time at Millbrook comes to an end, I can't wait to see the great things that you'll all accomplish in the next part of your lives. To my teachers, thank you so much for taking the time to really get to know and understand us as individuals. That is what really makes school, and the IB program, meaningful.
Also, shout-out to Stud Club, you know who you are. You're the realest of the real. La creme de la creme. The best of the best. Don't know what I'd do without you.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Sunday, April 5, 2015
The Notebook
...as in Walt Whitman's notebook. Not the romantic novel by Nicholas Sparks (which was adapted to film in 2004, starring Ryan Gosling and other less famous people).
Any-who...
As I scrolled through Whitman's notebook, the first thing that I realized was his style of writing. It is primarily written in cursive, a writing style that I personally associate with a person who is trying to get his/her thoughts down as fast as possible. To me, Whitman comes off as someone who has a lot to say and wants to lock down his thoughts on paper before they disappear. The fact that there are many crossed out statements and words supports the idea that Whitman didn't spend much time on the phrasing of his ideas. I noticed copious instances of exclamation and question marks following statements, indicating that Whitman tried to incorporate some emotion into his drafts. I also notice that Whitman had an affinity for caricatures and portraits (of himself) and other small sketches. Perhaps these allowed Whitman to express himself when he could not find the words to do so.
As I originally viewed Whitman's musings, I did not realize how they connected to his imaginary dialogue with Abraham Lincoln. There were areas where Whitman was attempting to decide on a title for his work. One potential title was "Lessons for a President Elect". I thought this was particularly interesting. I would have thought Whitman would call his work "Lessons from a President Elect", but Whitman's use of the word for implies that Whitman himself is trying to teach Lincoln something. I would have assumed that it would be the other way around. This hints to me that Whitman believes himself to be very intelligent, and that a man such as Lincoln would be able to learn a thing or two from him.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
I Have a Dream (Not Related to MLK Jr.)
To me, the idea of the American Dream has always taken me back to the post-WWII era of the 1950's and 1960's. This was a time when hundreds of thousands of war-hardened men were returning home from the front, eager to continue where from where their lives had been left off. For most, this meant finding a job, buying a new car, getting hitched, acquiring a mortgage and a home, and ultimately raising a family. This typically occurred in that order or something similar. The men expected to get up and go to work each day to provide for the family, and the women expected to (or at least, others expected them to) stay home and care for the children and the house. On top of these things, from the 1920's onward, the American society developed an affinity for purchasing the greater things in life, like new brand appliances and inventions. A family might consider themselves well to do if they had a quaint home with a well-kept lawn, a sky-blue Hudson Hornet in the garage, a few kids in the living room watching I Love Lucy on the tube, a woman managing the appliance-filled kitchen, and a man returning home from a day's work. How sweet.
To me, the whole 1950's American Dream situation would feel pretty awkward if I were to live it out in today's day and age. I picture wealth as being mentally/physically/financially stable and being able to spend my life with someone whom I love, trust, and enjoy spending time with. The details don't really matter to me. I don't really care if I live in the city, or the suburbs, or the country. I don't care what the dynamics of my family become, as long as we are all comfortable with them. This is what would make me happy, and that is what I strive to be in life: happy.
The idea of the American Dream seems to me like it tends to create an "us vs. the world" situation, where we will do whatever it takes to accomplish our goals. This can cause Americans (and anyone really) to focus more on their own desires rather than the well being of others and the world as a whole. People (myself included) often tend to overlook those less fortunate than themselves, preferring to spend their money on a new __INSERT CONSUMER ITEM HERE__ rather than paying for a homeless person's next meal. This creates a destructive and self-continuing cycle that, in general, makes the world crappy.
Therefore, thus, henceforth and forthwith, I think that we should popularize a term along the lines of the Globally-Minded World Citizen Dream (basically, the true IB Student's Dream). This dream would entail an individual pursuing his/her own personal dreams while at the same time recognizing and attempting to remedy situations such as poverty, hunger, political instability, etc. Of course an individual can't make much of a difference themselves in the grand scheme of things, but if the Globally-Minded World Citizen Dream (I expect credit if this term becomes a big thing) is believed in and worked towards by many, the world would become an inexorably better place.
To me, the whole 1950's American Dream situation would feel pretty awkward if I were to live it out in today's day and age. I picture wealth as being mentally/physically/financially stable and being able to spend my life with someone whom I love, trust, and enjoy spending time with. The details don't really matter to me. I don't really care if I live in the city, or the suburbs, or the country. I don't care what the dynamics of my family become, as long as we are all comfortable with them. This is what would make me happy, and that is what I strive to be in life: happy.
The idea of the American Dream seems to me like it tends to create an "us vs. the world" situation, where we will do whatever it takes to accomplish our goals. This can cause Americans (and anyone really) to focus more on their own desires rather than the well being of others and the world as a whole. People (myself included) often tend to overlook those less fortunate than themselves, preferring to spend their money on a new __INSERT CONSUMER ITEM HERE__ rather than paying for a homeless person's next meal. This creates a destructive and self-continuing cycle that, in general, makes the world crappy.
Therefore, thus, henceforth and forthwith, I think that we should popularize a term along the lines of the Globally-Minded World Citizen Dream (basically, the true IB Student's Dream). This dream would entail an individual pursuing his/her own personal dreams while at the same time recognizing and attempting to remedy situations such as poverty, hunger, political instability, etc. Of course an individual can't make much of a difference themselves in the grand scheme of things, but if the Globally-Minded World Citizen Dream (I expect credit if this term becomes a big thing) is believed in and worked towards by many, the world would become an inexorably better place.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Now ima tell you a story...
THE TECHNOLOGY OF STORYTELLING
https://www.ted.com/talks/joe_sabia_the_technology_of_storytelling/transcript?language=en
SUMMARY
In The Technology of Storytelling, TED talker Joe Sabia discusses the ways in which storytelling has evolved over time. He introduces a man named Lothar Meggendorfer, who invented the first children's pop-up story book, and describes Lothar as one of the first storytelling pioneers. Throughout his presentation, Sabia proceeds to label cases of the evolution of storytelling as cases of "Meggendorferitis". Finally, Sabia concludes that, although the technology of storytelling has changed, the art of storytelling has not, from cave drawings to Twitter posts.
ANALYSIS
The most significant method that the speaker uses to get his point across is by creating his entire presentation about storytelling around a framework of a story. He introduces his story with the words "Once upon a time..." and concludes it with "...live happily ever after.". This technique allows the audience to connect with the presentation because they are familiar with the format. It also allows the speaker to provide further emphasis on the main idea that he is attempting to convey.
I picked this topic because I am interested in anything relating to technology. It is amazing to me how rapidly technology is developing and the fact that it has been applied to something that has been an ancient part of human history - storytelling - makes it even more interesting.
PURPOSE
The speaker's main goal in his presentation is to draw the connections between the way storytelling used to be, and the way it is now. He wanted to explain that although methodology in storytelling has evolved, the purpose and spirit of storytelling has not. It has always been, and always will be, a way for humans to communicate and interact with each other, as well as creating a legacy that will stand the test of time.
https://www.ted.com/talks/joe_sabia_the_technology_of_storytelling/transcript?language=en
SUMMARY
In The Technology of Storytelling, TED talker Joe Sabia discusses the ways in which storytelling has evolved over time. He introduces a man named Lothar Meggendorfer, who invented the first children's pop-up story book, and describes Lothar as one of the first storytelling pioneers. Throughout his presentation, Sabia proceeds to label cases of the evolution of storytelling as cases of "Meggendorferitis". Finally, Sabia concludes that, although the technology of storytelling has changed, the art of storytelling has not, from cave drawings to Twitter posts.
ANALYSIS
The most significant method that the speaker uses to get his point across is by creating his entire presentation about storytelling around a framework of a story. He introduces his story with the words "Once upon a time..." and concludes it with "...live happily ever after.". This technique allows the audience to connect with the presentation because they are familiar with the format. It also allows the speaker to provide further emphasis on the main idea that he is attempting to convey.
I picked this topic because I am interested in anything relating to technology. It is amazing to me how rapidly technology is developing and the fact that it has been applied to something that has been an ancient part of human history - storytelling - makes it even more interesting.
PURPOSE
The speaker's main goal in his presentation is to draw the connections between the way storytelling used to be, and the way it is now. He wanted to explain that although methodology in storytelling has evolved, the purpose and spirit of storytelling has not. It has always been, and always will be, a way for humans to communicate and interact with each other, as well as creating a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Insert Creative Double Indemnity-Themed Title Here
As I watched Double Indemnity, I consistently noticed the lack of empathetic emotion felt by the characters; the idea of committing murder did not seem to faze them (although the idea of being caught sure did). Because of this, I completely agree with the statement that Double Indemnity was "a film without a single trace of pity or love".
Throughout the film, I had the impression that the relationship between Walter and Phyllis was fake. Neither of the two seemed to actually care for each other, despite their situation. The motivation behind their actions always seemed to be money, desperation, and complete detachment from life. They appeared to disguise these motivations behind the idea of love, preferring to think of themselves as passionate and caring, rather than the calculating and cold-blooded individuals that they truly are. My impression was validated towards the end of the movie, when the scheme unraveled and things went awry. Walter shot Phyllis with (relatively) little remorse, even after she confessed that she could not shoot him. Their love for each other was not substantial enough to carry them through the ordeal that ensued when their true love for money took precedence.
Throughout the film, I had the impression that the relationship between Walter and Phyllis was fake. Neither of the two seemed to actually care for each other, despite their situation. The motivation behind their actions always seemed to be money, desperation, and complete detachment from life. They appeared to disguise these motivations behind the idea of love, preferring to think of themselves as passionate and caring, rather than the calculating and cold-blooded individuals that they truly are. My impression was validated towards the end of the movie, when the scheme unraveled and things went awry. Walter shot Phyllis with (relatively) little remorse, even after she confessed that she could not shoot him. Their love for each other was not substantial enough to carry them through the ordeal that ensued when their true love for money took precedence.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
"Watched by Banquo"
Banquo plays an integral role in Shakespeare's Macbeth as a foil to the infamous Macbeth himself. Despite his importance to the story, Banquo is often underrepresented, and the majority of his internal feelings are not revealed through dialog or soliloquy. In this way, much of his character is left up to the audience to determine: Is he loyal to his 'friend', Macbeth, until the very end? Or is he creating his own plot to acquire the throne at the time he was killed?
We will never know for sure, but I have created below a Netflix playlist for Banquo that will hopefully provide my own insight on Banquo as a character.
WATCHED BY BANQUO
#1 - Betrayal
Betrayal is an ABC television series (well, it was until it was canceled after its first season) that revolves around two married individuals who take part in a secret affair. On top of this, there is a murder trial taking place, in which the two are on different sides. The idea of the show is to illustrate the surrounding corruption and lies that result from a compelling story of sex, love, loyalty, marriage, and treachery.
I suppose Banquo might have watched this show if he felt suspicions about Macbeth's intentions. From my own interpretations of Banquo, I believe that he did recognize the danger following the strange sequence of events that progressed after the witches' prophecies, but believed that Macbeth still respected their friendship. Betrayal represents some of these issues of trust, loyalty, and danger that Banquo must have been experiencing at the time he was murdered.
#2 - Beowulf
Beowulf is the film adaption of the Old English tale by the same name. Set in Scandinavia, it is the story of an epic hero. A monster named Grendel wreaks havoc on the mead hall of Danish King, Hrothgar. Beowulf is a boastful warrior eager to earn renown across the land, and he quickly accepts Hrothgar's pleas for help in eliminating Grendel. The story progresses with Beowulf defeating the creature, and then becoming king through questionable practices (namely, making a deal with the creature's mother).
Banquo would have likely watched this movie not only due to its warrior-culture influences, but the hints to corruption and unrightful kingship as well. Also, throughout the movie, Beowulf has a trusting and loyal friend who always stays by his side, despite his corruption. I also expect that Banquo would enjoy the ending, where ***SPOILER ALERT*** Beowulf makes the right choice and saves his kingdom, regardless of how he became king of said kingdom, at the cost of his own life. I suspect that Banquo would ultimately hope that if Macbeth were responsible for the murder of King Duncan, he would still honor their friendship and make a right decision.
#3 - Harry Potter (Yes, the entire series)
Harry Potter is a seven book series by author J.K. Rowling following the lives of Harry Potter and his friends, as well as his enemies. It takes place in the present day world, as well as the secret world of wizards and witches.
The only reason I expect that Banquo would have watched this series is for its interpretation of witches. Although vastly different that the ones in Macbeth, I believe Banquo would be eager to get as many views on witches as possible, in order to explain his and Macbeth's strange encounter with the three witches in the story.
#4 - Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief
Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief brings to film the book by the same name, in which an age-old story in Greek mythology is given a modern rendition.
I believe that Banquo would have watched this movie due to his confusion and skepticism regarding the prophecies made by the three witches in the story. This would have given him a new point of view on prophecies, how and why they are fulfilled, and so on.
We will never know for sure, but I have created below a Netflix playlist for Banquo that will hopefully provide my own insight on Banquo as a character.
WATCHED BY BANQUO
#1 - Betrayal
Betrayal is an ABC television series (well, it was until it was canceled after its first season) that revolves around two married individuals who take part in a secret affair. On top of this, there is a murder trial taking place, in which the two are on different sides. The idea of the show is to illustrate the surrounding corruption and lies that result from a compelling story of sex, love, loyalty, marriage, and treachery.
I suppose Banquo might have watched this show if he felt suspicions about Macbeth's intentions. From my own interpretations of Banquo, I believe that he did recognize the danger following the strange sequence of events that progressed after the witches' prophecies, but believed that Macbeth still respected their friendship. Betrayal represents some of these issues of trust, loyalty, and danger that Banquo must have been experiencing at the time he was murdered.
#2 - Beowulf
Beowulf is the film adaption of the Old English tale by the same name. Set in Scandinavia, it is the story of an epic hero. A monster named Grendel wreaks havoc on the mead hall of Danish King, Hrothgar. Beowulf is a boastful warrior eager to earn renown across the land, and he quickly accepts Hrothgar's pleas for help in eliminating Grendel. The story progresses with Beowulf defeating the creature, and then becoming king through questionable practices (namely, making a deal with the creature's mother).
Banquo would have likely watched this movie not only due to its warrior-culture influences, but the hints to corruption and unrightful kingship as well. Also, throughout the movie, Beowulf has a trusting and loyal friend who always stays by his side, despite his corruption. I also expect that Banquo would enjoy the ending, where ***SPOILER ALERT*** Beowulf makes the right choice and saves his kingdom, regardless of how he became king of said kingdom, at the cost of his own life. I suspect that Banquo would ultimately hope that if Macbeth were responsible for the murder of King Duncan, he would still honor their friendship and make a right decision.
#3 - Harry Potter (Yes, the entire series)
Harry Potter is a seven book series by author J.K. Rowling following the lives of Harry Potter and his friends, as well as his enemies. It takes place in the present day world, as well as the secret world of wizards and witches.
The only reason I expect that Banquo would have watched this series is for its interpretation of witches. Although vastly different that the ones in Macbeth, I believe Banquo would be eager to get as many views on witches as possible, in order to explain his and Macbeth's strange encounter with the three witches in the story.
#4 - Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief
Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief brings to film the book by the same name, in which an age-old story in Greek mythology is given a modern rendition.
I believe that Banquo would have watched this movie due to his confusion and skepticism regarding the prophecies made by the three witches in the story. This would have given him a new point of view on prophecies, how and why they are fulfilled, and so on.
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