Rolling stones hot rocks
ScarfRock
2018.08.07 03:35 ScarfRock
All “Scarf Rock” bands, from the Rolling Stones & the Faces to the New York Dolls & Aerosmith to Hanoi Rocks & Guns n’ Roses to the the Jacobites & the Chamber Strings, etc.
2012.03.18 03:48 John Frusciante From the Outside In
We are a community based around the happening of John Frusciante. John Frusciante, is the guitarist for the red hot chili peppers as well as many other side projects. He was also voted number eighteen in rolling stones magazine top 100 guitarists. John Frusciante is also currently one of the most talented people of the last twenty-five or thirty years.
2011.09.07 20:22 x888x VinylReleases: a place for announcements of releases and pressings
2024.06.02 08:13 JesseOnVinyl Listening bar fail
 | I know listening bars seem awesome in theory, but I went to what was a laughable attempt to capitalize on a vinyl resurgence to make them stand out as a bar. This bar literally has an iPad plugged into the aux laying on top of the turntable, and the now spinning sign was The Rolling Stones while a Kendrick Lamar song was playing. Curious if anybody has had a good experience or are they all like this? submitted by JesseOnVinyl to vinyl [link] [comments] |
2024.06.02 08:08 Proper-Effective406 Elvis Presley: The Untold Story of the King of Rock and Roll
 | submitted by Proper-Effective406 to u/Proper-Effective406 [link] [comments] |
2024.06.02 08:00 Neldere An unsent love letter
Dearest,
I want you to understand me fully, because I find it immensely difficult to communicate any of this unless it is all laid out as one mindset, for I fear being misconstrued as ill-intended when for me this is an exercise of truth and speaking that truth which I feel. It is an exercise of honesty, and one of humility as I lay bare before your conscious attention the fullness of my feeling.
I have loved and I have lost. A number of times now, in various ways. I have explored depths of despair, loneliness, grief, trauma, and other shadowy sides to myself and after entertaining death itself for years, I have emerged refreshed and cleansed. I choose life and all that this incarnation has in store for me while my lungs continue to take breath and my heart continues to beat.
My orientation to life has long been to clench and grip and grab and tightly hold on to illusions of control and security. To ensnare people with untenable relationship arrangements founded on a lack of self-acceptance and love. To entertain conditional and transactional experiences with other humans, for fear of being taken advantage of. These seeds I have allowed to take root have sprung up many times, as I have continued to water and enrich them with anxieties and fears. No longer. I choose to live and to love. I choose to cultivate a space of love that welcomes and accepts and validates and entertains without the need for gripping and containing those who enter it. And as the space expands the walls of my heart, the incalculable depths of loving potential arise to the surface and saturate my being. I choose to be love itself, incarnate as far as my current form will allow. I honor my limitations and find great serenity in accommodating and challenging them in due course.
One of my core powers is understanding the nature of limitation itself. Thus I recognize that in terms of my love, a limit does not exist that can ever long persist. My love is infinite. As I fall into the space of love, I too am infinite as a whole and no longer feel a need to leave this form, or end things, or to do anything especial to avoid suffering. I am just love itself, and that is enough to satisfy my mind and my heart and my soul. All that exists that may limit the outpouring of this love is the nature of my form, and that blessedly is ever changing—seemingly to the benefit of all, and will ever grow alongside the expansion of my heart.
This space is supremely difficult to remain in forever. But when I am with you dearest, I am always in that space. I am always in that space of love with you. Even right now. I am in love with you. Do you get what I am saying? I love you as a person, a human, a being in general. I adore so many aspects of you. But I am also IN the space of love WITH you. I am in love WITH you. I love you, but I am also in love with you.
I have no fear stating this. How could I be afraid of loving utterly she for whom I hold all desire? How could I fear you, dearest, when your embrace is pure comfort and pleasure? You are divinely saturated in feminine expression and attract every atom of my being like a super-magnet. In fact, you instead take all my fears away and alchemize them into precise and pristinely perfect inspiration for me to cheerfully ingest, effortlessly. You ARE my inspiration, my muse, my lady, my woman, and my lover in my mind and in my heart.
Your laugh is a fountain of music and your speech an enchantment for my ears. Your smile as you grin at me is so wonderfully and delightfully silly, mischievous, cheerful, hopeful, and full of desire all at once. I have never felt my capacity to love so challenged as by you, but neither have I ever recognized just how utterly willing I am and will ever be to fully explore that capacity with you.
The way your eyes sparkle with celestial radiance, and draw me down into their depths is a fantasy ride into the very dreamy undertones of my most private subconscious sensualities. And with a bright unserious laugher bubbling up in the blink of said eyes, you make me go to pieces with chagrin and humility in the best possible way. Often, your glance pierces with icy diamond sharpness, but gives way to pools of the most vibrant tropical paradise blue that are wells of the deepest wisdom; a spring from the mountains that begins a stream that will take a lifetime to meet the sea. I would swim in the depths of those pools forever, were I so fortunate as to be invited closer than the leaves of the trees on the edge of the forest. The Keen-Eyed I name you, for there exists no veil or shroud over me that your gaze cannot penetrate with swift and unyielding overtones of warmth and delight. No shadow can endure that light.
Your skin is taut; your muscles wrought—of strength, and powerful endurance. You make the lands vibrate with joy and excitement as the wind chases your feet as they dance through the world. When it is out, the sun glows dazzlingly, glittering with tiny rainbows of color as it plays across your aesthetic and athletic form, and all the wildflowers yearn in anticipation as you pass—hoping for the glory and chance of being picked and tucked behind your ear—to their greatest delight and honor. Framing the soft expanse of your brow, the tresses of your hair flash with a rare and glorious golden radiance that only the light of the stars glittering in the inky darkness of night could produce. Their glow traverses the infinite emptiness of space only to at long last become ensnared and woven into the soft strength of each strand, to radiate that light anew.
When I hug you, I realize that if I could, I would freeze time and spend an eternity just holding you in my arms, lovingly caressing your hair and back as your soft gentle weight presses into me, comforting me utterly with the honoring of the full humility of my stark humanity. Feeling your acceptance, and validation and encouraging enrichment through holding you makes me possessed by great sorrow, knowing I must let you go, but it also leaves me with a lasting serenity and pleasure, knowing that within the space of this long lifetime, I somehow have been so unbelievably fortunate as to have been graced by so loving of an embrace. Humans go entire lifetimes without ever experiencing such a wondrous experience, and I treasure it every time it occurs.
You will never owe me anything, nor suffer any binding at my hand, save those of your own choosing. I offer you infinite depths of connection and reassurance amidst the wide world, but I do not seek to contain or cage you. You have a path to walk just as I do, but I would have yours lead back to me each moment that it may. I would cherish and love you all the days of my life, and never would I intentionally overstep your boundaries nor subject you to violence. I would uphold your honor and work to emphasize your grace with my own stature and beauty and power. Such that is granted to me by the space of each moment, anyways. There is great potential for mutual growth and fulfillment between us over the length of a lifetime if we are willing to invest in developing a deeper intertwining of our bodies and our souls. I recognize many limits but no limit to the depths we might explore together. The universe is vast, but perfection abounds from the highest highs to the deepest depths, and as long as I have you nearby, I may envision it and establish it in turn, for the benefit of our family, should you choose to spend your time in my company in a home of our own.
And if your choice is to seek a path that follows a diversion from my own, I will accept it with graceful resignation, wishing you only the utmost happiness for all your days. I may strain to understand how any other might love you with greater ardor than my heart is aflame with, but the cosmos does not revolve around me, and I recognize that there persist many potential partners of greater consideration and so I willingly let go of any claim I might try to lay for your hand. Instead I offer only a blessing, that should the universe favor me at long last, that this letter will not fall astray and will arrive to a welcome reception in the halls of your heart. Should it not, I will sit with contentment, recognizing my own bravery and madness in sending it, and regretting not the choice to seek your fancy.
You are a treasure dearest, and I am a treasure seeker. I covet many gems and beautiful minerals and crystals that this wondrous planet has grown and shaped. But no crystal radiates as you do. No crystal has so beautiful of colors. Nor is as delightfully energizing as you are. I find no greater assurance in any rock or stone than I do holding your hands and being within the sphere of your aura. I have faith that I will become as strong or as harmonious or supportive as ever you might wish me to be, if only were the smile in your eyes to wake me from dreamspace each morning alongside the rays of the sun and so inspire me to greatness.
May this wishful boat of heartfelt intention and deep desire sail gently into the cavernous depths of your being beneath the mountainous wall of the outer bulwark of your defenses, and may it receive safe harborage in the twilight pools of dreams that glow like galaxies in the soft glimmer of crystal-laden caves that house your soul. May it meet there the doorway to your heart, and may it pass over the threshold, to begin anew the conjugation of the universe with itself through the vehicle of our mutual love.
For K,
Who never received it, having chosen another lover.
submitted by Neldere to TrueOffMyChest [link] [comments]
I want you to understand me fully, because I find it immensely difficult to communicate any of this unless it is all laid out as one mindset, for I fear being misconstrued as ill-intended when for me this is an exercise of truth and speaking that truth which I feel. It is an exercise of honesty, and one of humility as I lay bare before your conscious attention the fullness of my feeling.
I have loved and I have lost. A number of times now, in various ways. I have explored depths of despair, loneliness, grief, trauma, and other shadowy sides to myself and after entertaining death itself for years, I have emerged refreshed and cleansed. I choose life and all that this incarnation has in store for me while my lungs continue to take breath and my heart continues to beat.
My orientation to life has long been to clench and grip and grab and tightly hold on to illusions of control and security. To ensnare people with untenable relationship arrangements founded on a lack of self-acceptance and love. To entertain conditional and transactional experiences with other humans, for fear of being taken advantage of. These seeds I have allowed to take root have sprung up many times, as I have continued to water and enrich them with anxieties and fears. No longer. I choose to live and to love. I choose to cultivate a space of love that welcomes and accepts and validates and entertains without the need for gripping and containing those who enter it. And as the space expands the walls of my heart, the incalculable depths of loving potential arise to the surface and saturate my being. I choose to be love itself, incarnate as far as my current form will allow. I honor my limitations and find great serenity in accommodating and challenging them in due course.
One of my core powers is understanding the nature of limitation itself. Thus I recognize that in terms of my love, a limit does not exist that can ever long persist. My love is infinite. As I fall into the space of love, I too am infinite as a whole and no longer feel a need to leave this form, or end things, or to do anything especial to avoid suffering. I am just love itself, and that is enough to satisfy my mind and my heart and my soul. All that exists that may limit the outpouring of this love is the nature of my form, and that blessedly is ever changing—seemingly to the benefit of all, and will ever grow alongside the expansion of my heart.
This space is supremely difficult to remain in forever. But when I am with you dearest, I am always in that space. I am always in that space of love with you. Even right now. I am in love with you. Do you get what I am saying? I love you as a person, a human, a being in general. I adore so many aspects of you. But I am also IN the space of love WITH you. I am in love WITH you. I love you, but I am also in love with you.
I have no fear stating this. How could I be afraid of loving utterly she for whom I hold all desire? How could I fear you, dearest, when your embrace is pure comfort and pleasure? You are divinely saturated in feminine expression and attract every atom of my being like a super-magnet. In fact, you instead take all my fears away and alchemize them into precise and pristinely perfect inspiration for me to cheerfully ingest, effortlessly. You ARE my inspiration, my muse, my lady, my woman, and my lover in my mind and in my heart.
Your laugh is a fountain of music and your speech an enchantment for my ears. Your smile as you grin at me is so wonderfully and delightfully silly, mischievous, cheerful, hopeful, and full of desire all at once. I have never felt my capacity to love so challenged as by you, but neither have I ever recognized just how utterly willing I am and will ever be to fully explore that capacity with you.
The way your eyes sparkle with celestial radiance, and draw me down into their depths is a fantasy ride into the very dreamy undertones of my most private subconscious sensualities. And with a bright unserious laugher bubbling up in the blink of said eyes, you make me go to pieces with chagrin and humility in the best possible way. Often, your glance pierces with icy diamond sharpness, but gives way to pools of the most vibrant tropical paradise blue that are wells of the deepest wisdom; a spring from the mountains that begins a stream that will take a lifetime to meet the sea. I would swim in the depths of those pools forever, were I so fortunate as to be invited closer than the leaves of the trees on the edge of the forest. The Keen-Eyed I name you, for there exists no veil or shroud over me that your gaze cannot penetrate with swift and unyielding overtones of warmth and delight. No shadow can endure that light.
Your skin is taut; your muscles wrought—of strength, and powerful endurance. You make the lands vibrate with joy and excitement as the wind chases your feet as they dance through the world. When it is out, the sun glows dazzlingly, glittering with tiny rainbows of color as it plays across your aesthetic and athletic form, and all the wildflowers yearn in anticipation as you pass—hoping for the glory and chance of being picked and tucked behind your ear—to their greatest delight and honor. Framing the soft expanse of your brow, the tresses of your hair flash with a rare and glorious golden radiance that only the light of the stars glittering in the inky darkness of night could produce. Their glow traverses the infinite emptiness of space only to at long last become ensnared and woven into the soft strength of each strand, to radiate that light anew.
When I hug you, I realize that if I could, I would freeze time and spend an eternity just holding you in my arms, lovingly caressing your hair and back as your soft gentle weight presses into me, comforting me utterly with the honoring of the full humility of my stark humanity. Feeling your acceptance, and validation and encouraging enrichment through holding you makes me possessed by great sorrow, knowing I must let you go, but it also leaves me with a lasting serenity and pleasure, knowing that within the space of this long lifetime, I somehow have been so unbelievably fortunate as to have been graced by so loving of an embrace. Humans go entire lifetimes without ever experiencing such a wondrous experience, and I treasure it every time it occurs.
You will never owe me anything, nor suffer any binding at my hand, save those of your own choosing. I offer you infinite depths of connection and reassurance amidst the wide world, but I do not seek to contain or cage you. You have a path to walk just as I do, but I would have yours lead back to me each moment that it may. I would cherish and love you all the days of my life, and never would I intentionally overstep your boundaries nor subject you to violence. I would uphold your honor and work to emphasize your grace with my own stature and beauty and power. Such that is granted to me by the space of each moment, anyways. There is great potential for mutual growth and fulfillment between us over the length of a lifetime if we are willing to invest in developing a deeper intertwining of our bodies and our souls. I recognize many limits but no limit to the depths we might explore together. The universe is vast, but perfection abounds from the highest highs to the deepest depths, and as long as I have you nearby, I may envision it and establish it in turn, for the benefit of our family, should you choose to spend your time in my company in a home of our own.
And if your choice is to seek a path that follows a diversion from my own, I will accept it with graceful resignation, wishing you only the utmost happiness for all your days. I may strain to understand how any other might love you with greater ardor than my heart is aflame with, but the cosmos does not revolve around me, and I recognize that there persist many potential partners of greater consideration and so I willingly let go of any claim I might try to lay for your hand. Instead I offer only a blessing, that should the universe favor me at long last, that this letter will not fall astray and will arrive to a welcome reception in the halls of your heart. Should it not, I will sit with contentment, recognizing my own bravery and madness in sending it, and regretting not the choice to seek your fancy.
You are a treasure dearest, and I am a treasure seeker. I covet many gems and beautiful minerals and crystals that this wondrous planet has grown and shaped. But no crystal radiates as you do. No crystal has so beautiful of colors. Nor is as delightfully energizing as you are. I find no greater assurance in any rock or stone than I do holding your hands and being within the sphere of your aura. I have faith that I will become as strong or as harmonious or supportive as ever you might wish me to be, if only were the smile in your eyes to wake me from dreamspace each morning alongside the rays of the sun and so inspire me to greatness.
May this wishful boat of heartfelt intention and deep desire sail gently into the cavernous depths of your being beneath the mountainous wall of the outer bulwark of your defenses, and may it receive safe harborage in the twilight pools of dreams that glow like galaxies in the soft glimmer of crystal-laden caves that house your soul. May it meet there the doorway to your heart, and may it pass over the threshold, to begin anew the conjugation of the universe with itself through the vehicle of our mutual love.
For K,
Who never received it, having chosen another lover.
2024.06.02 07:57 Only_Indication_9715 I'm starting a new company that's all-salary and will be employee-owned. Please tell me why it will fail.
I'm in that part of my career where I'm ready to start my own thing. I ran a branch of someone else's company for 2 years way back in the day, but the rest of my career has been in the field.
Things are gathering momentum, and I'm pretty stoked.
I also have a lot of well-meaning people in my life who are 100% optimistic and positive regarding my business model. Which is awesome - having cheerleaders in life is the coolest.
I've also been through startup before, and I've watched up-close as plumbing businesses succeed and fail. I've been spending a lot of time recently trying to punch holes in the model, and to figure out where I'm wrong. That's been helpful, but I'm pretty biased, lol; so maybe I'm not my most honest critic.
So, plumbers of reddit with field experience, and those of you who started your own thing from the ground up - please rip this idea to shreds. Seriously, I want to know everything that's wrong with it, and how it's going to fail.
I'm starting with 3 trucks - one plumber, one apprentice per truck, plus me in a smaller service vehicle, also with an apprentice. So, 8 field staff.
I have not structured or budgeted the office staff yet, but I have designated funding.
Compensation: On day 1, everyone, including me, is salaried. Going forward, all staff will be salaried after 90 days, excepting apprentices, who are hourly for their first year (this is for their benefit - I want new folks to feel free to leave with no hard feelings or negative consequences if the work isn't their bag).
Monthly revenue bonuses wil be paid out when a truck's revenue exceeds it's expenses by $10k. The size of the bonus will, of course, increase geometrically as the truck's margin increases that month. I haven't decided if I'm doing calendar months or rolling 4 week periods yet - I'll likely hand that decision to the crews. I want to incentive folks to earn, but I don't want them to be under pressure to earn every single week just to live.I also want them to know that their check is enhanced when the truck is hot - because high-revenue months are usually high-hour months.
Quarterly and/or annual bonuses to be paid out based on personal and general performance and growth. Company has a big year, everyone gets a piece.
The Employee-Owned Part:
Currently, I own 100% of the company, but that's a polite fiction. In reality, 90% of the startup funding is from a bank that has decided to roll the dice on me. 9.5% is my personal stake, and 0.5% is my wife's stake (bc she's awesome). By lunchtime on day 1, I will own 79.5% of the company.
On day 1, the 3 plumbers become 10% shareholders between them. They have decided how to split that fairly among themselves, which was pretty cool to see.
The 4 initial apprentices will receive a 5% share divided evenly among them, 1.25% each.
Going forward, apprentices who start their apprenticeship with us will be owners after their first year, and licensed folks who join up will become owners after a period, but we haven't decided what that tenure should be, yet.
Office & shop staff will receive a similar deal, but we can't structure that until we structure that staff and those positions.
My goal is for employees to control 45% of shares within 5 years. I'm open to the company being majority employee-owned eventually, but not until/unless the company pays off startup debt and is stable.
Accountability:
This company will operate in a 'right-to-work' state. The staff - field, office, & shop - have been tasked to form an in-house union within the first year of business. Honestly, I hope they get it done in the first month, but I also kinda hope we're so busy that they need more time haha.
The company will cut a check to help with consultation, training, legal, etc costs to get them off to a running start, but the union will fund itself going forward.
Part of the union's duty will be to keep me accountable. A 3rd party arbiter will be hired on retainer (shockingly cheap, btw) to keep everyone accountable, and to help prevent disagreements from becoming disputes.
Another responsibility of the union will be to present a plan for structuring many aspects of the employee-ownership system. I will have a benefits package secured for the first year of business, but I'd like the employees to have control over that sooner rather than later.
So, if you're still here, thanks, and please let me know what's going to screw us first 🙂
submitted by Only_Indication_9715 to Plumbing [link] [comments]
Things are gathering momentum, and I'm pretty stoked.
I also have a lot of well-meaning people in my life who are 100% optimistic and positive regarding my business model. Which is awesome - having cheerleaders in life is the coolest.
I've also been through startup before, and I've watched up-close as plumbing businesses succeed and fail. I've been spending a lot of time recently trying to punch holes in the model, and to figure out where I'm wrong. That's been helpful, but I'm pretty biased, lol; so maybe I'm not my most honest critic.
So, plumbers of reddit with field experience, and those of you who started your own thing from the ground up - please rip this idea to shreds. Seriously, I want to know everything that's wrong with it, and how it's going to fail.
I'm starting with 3 trucks - one plumber, one apprentice per truck, plus me in a smaller service vehicle, also with an apprentice. So, 8 field staff.
I have not structured or budgeted the office staff yet, but I have designated funding.
Compensation: On day 1, everyone, including me, is salaried. Going forward, all staff will be salaried after 90 days, excepting apprentices, who are hourly for their first year (this is for their benefit - I want new folks to feel free to leave with no hard feelings or negative consequences if the work isn't their bag).
Monthly revenue bonuses wil be paid out when a truck's revenue exceeds it's expenses by $10k. The size of the bonus will, of course, increase geometrically as the truck's margin increases that month. I haven't decided if I'm doing calendar months or rolling 4 week periods yet - I'll likely hand that decision to the crews. I want to incentive folks to earn, but I don't want them to be under pressure to earn every single week just to live.I also want them to know that their check is enhanced when the truck is hot - because high-revenue months are usually high-hour months.
Quarterly and/or annual bonuses to be paid out based on personal and general performance and growth. Company has a big year, everyone gets a piece.
The Employee-Owned Part:
Currently, I own 100% of the company, but that's a polite fiction. In reality, 90% of the startup funding is from a bank that has decided to roll the dice on me. 9.5% is my personal stake, and 0.5% is my wife's stake (bc she's awesome). By lunchtime on day 1, I will own 79.5% of the company.
On day 1, the 3 plumbers become 10% shareholders between them. They have decided how to split that fairly among themselves, which was pretty cool to see.
The 4 initial apprentices will receive a 5% share divided evenly among them, 1.25% each.
Going forward, apprentices who start their apprenticeship with us will be owners after their first year, and licensed folks who join up will become owners after a period, but we haven't decided what that tenure should be, yet.
Office & shop staff will receive a similar deal, but we can't structure that until we structure that staff and those positions.
My goal is for employees to control 45% of shares within 5 years. I'm open to the company being majority employee-owned eventually, but not until/unless the company pays off startup debt and is stable.
Accountability:
This company will operate in a 'right-to-work' state. The staff - field, office, & shop - have been tasked to form an in-house union within the first year of business. Honestly, I hope they get it done in the first month, but I also kinda hope we're so busy that they need more time haha.
The company will cut a check to help with consultation, training, legal, etc costs to get them off to a running start, but the union will fund itself going forward.
Part of the union's duty will be to keep me accountable. A 3rd party arbiter will be hired on retainer (shockingly cheap, btw) to keep everyone accountable, and to help prevent disagreements from becoming disputes.
Another responsibility of the union will be to present a plan for structuring many aspects of the employee-ownership system. I will have a benefits package secured for the first year of business, but I'd like the employees to have control over that sooner rather than later.
So, if you're still here, thanks, and please let me know what's going to screw us first 🙂
2024.06.02 07:57 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Aaliyah Sunglasses
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/inj2kgmpl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=73b524d69f57ef4276706a92dfbd5735b09ab071 Are you looking for a pair of sunglasses that effortlessly combines style, quality, and versatility? Look no further than our roundup of the best Aaliyah sunglasses! From retro-inspired styles to sleek modern designs, we've gathered a variety of options to suit every taste and budget. The Top 19 Best Aaliyah Sunglasses
Reviews🔗Alaïa Black Oval Full Rim Sunglasses with Grey Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/d145lfdql34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a64ab86ba71f057e152c59e8e6534c7135e96a5c As someone who loves a good pair of sunglasses, especially when they come with the allure of Azzedine Alaïa's designs, I was intrigued by the Alaïa Black Round Sunglasses. Featuring a stunning shiny black acetate-metal frame and solid grey lenses, these sunglasses were a unique combination of vintage and modern styles that fit perfectly with my summer wardrobe. What stood out to me the most was the brand's signature timeless legacy, which was showcased through the delicate sculptural shapes and edgy cuts. The acetate material was smooth but sturdy, perfectly complementing the lenses' high-quality UV protection. Additionally, the sunglasses were versatile as they fitted both indoor and outdoor activities, and their progressive lenses made adjusting to different light conditions a breeze. Despite the stunning design, there were a few drawbacks. The sunglasses are slightly heavier than some of my other pairs, which might be an issue for those with sensitive noses. However, this didn't detract too much from the overall experience, especially considering the brand's rich history in creating couture-inspired eyewear. All in all, I found my experience with the Alaïa Black Sunglasses to be an exciting blend of luxury and practicality. With the brand's signature style, they stand out as a unique addition to anyone's sunglasses collection, and I will definitely be recommending them to friends and family. 🔗Stylish Aaliyah Sunglasses with Polarized Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/b8kaywlql34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=073cfbb48d2f913a05a4de4bd9e72fe03b19e315 Take a walk on the chic side with these Aaliyah sunglasses. As a daily eyewear wearer, I've been blown away by the comfort and durability these Polarized beauties bring to the table. Adjustable nosepads ensure a secure and cozy fit, while high-quality metal arms and stainless steel hinges add to the sturdiness. Not only do the lenses protect against 100% UVA/UVB and harmful blue light, but their scratch-resistant feature has me confident in their longevity. A splash of peach tortoise and black adds a pop of fun to any outfit. The multi-layer TAC Polarized lenses promise crystal-clear vision, and the full-rim, cat-eye frame shape is both stylish and practical. The only thing better than these sunglasses is the warm feeling of sun on my skin! . 🔗Shiny Transparent Pink Sunglasses by Azzedine Alaïa AA0055S 003https://preview.redd.it/8cub826rl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16e4ef17386fcc3982908a5487058f5b398eac5a I've been sporting these Aazzedine Alaïa sunglasses (AA0055S 003) for a few weeks now, and I must say, they are a stylish addition to my look. Their pink frames with a transparent finish catch everyone's attention, and the solid ink blue lenses complement the overall chic style. The Cat Eye frame shape adds a unique touch to this full-rim design. The sunglasses come with a Bridge length of 23 mm, and the Lens height is 44.30 mm, providing the perfect fit. Their Diagonal of 50 is ideal for a more comfortable wear. While they are made with Acetate, they still feel lightweight and comfortable. However, one downside I did notice was that the pink frame is a bit more of a highlighter shade than expected, which might be overpowering for some outfit combinations. Nonetheless, the blue lenses make up for it and provide a stylish contrast. Overall, I would recommend these sunglasses to those who enjoy a bold yet feminine design. 🔗Aaliyah Transparent Light Orange Sunglasses with Petal Studshttps://preview.redd.it/zbgdipbrl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c72cc920891ca62e3fc732ce2d0dab9739695b3e These orange Aaliyah sunglasses have been a staple in my everyday life lately, providing both style and functionality. I've found the soft squared shape to be incredibly comfortable, making it easy to wear daily. The Pètal studs on the frame add a unique and distinctive signature to the design. One of my favorite features is the beveled acetate — it not only adds a bold and voluminous touch to the frame, but it also ensures that the sunglasses remain comfortable even after extended wear. And let's not forget the Category 3 UV protection, which keeps my eyes safe from the sun. The solid brown lenses not only look great, but they also provide excellent clarity, making these sunglasses suitable for progressive prescription wear too. However, there have been some minor issues with these sunglasses – the transparent light orange frame may not be the best choice for those seeking a more opaque color. Additionally, the silver Pètal studs can sometimes catch on fabric or other surfaces, so be cautious when wearing them. Nonetheless, the overall experience with these Aaliyah sunglasses has been quite enjoyable. 🔗Sophisticated Acetate Aazzedine Alaia Gradient Sunglasseshttps://preview.redd.it/xxb9hzrrl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=01f26c6bae23ce2ab1144668f5daf744f914d107 When I first tried on the Azzedine Alaïa AA0062S 001 Black Grey Sunglasses, I was immediately drawn to their oversized, edgy square shape. The modern and contemporary look they provided really stood out to me. The micro studs embellishments added a touch of elegance, with their striking precision in decorating the spoiler and temples. While trying them on, I noticed the beveled acetate, which offered great volume and boldness, without compromising the comfort. I appreciated the option for progressive lenses, which ensured a clear and seamless vision. The dark gradient lenses not only looked stylish but also provided excellent UV protection with Category 3. However, I did find that the sunglasses were slightly more expensive than similar products on the market. I had to consider the quality and unique design before making the purchase. Overall, I'm happy with my decision, as these sunglasses have been both comfortable and stylish while providing the necessary protection against UV rays. 🔗Aazzedine Alaia AA0059S 002 White Grey Sunglasses - Modern Rimless Frames with Grey Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/mnypyk9sl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98e4ed15fdf65bdaee53e45149c5ba46a8731d88 I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Azzedine Alaïa AA0059S 002 White Grey sunglasses. These shades are the epitome of sophistication and style, blending a timeless aesthetic with modern elegance. The shiny solid ivory acetate frame and solid grey lenses provide both visual appeal and exceptional UV protection. The meticulous craftsmanship of Azzedine Alaïa really shines through in these sunglasses, as the sculptural approach and couture-inspired embellishments exude a sensuality that's difficult to ignore. I found the smooth acetates and edgy cuts to be quite unique and eye-catching, making these shades stand out in a crowd. However, it's important to note that these sunglasses are not suitable for all face shapes, as they are designed to flatter heart, oval, round, and square faces. Additionally, the full-rim frame style might not be the most comfortable for everyone. Overall, the Azzedine Alaïa AA0059S 002 White Grey sunglasses are a beautiful and stylish accessory that perfectly captures Aaliyah's timeless legacy. They're definitely worth a try for those who appreciate both fashion and functional design. 🔗Stylish Black Oversized Round Sunglasses by Azzedine Alaïahttps://preview.redd.it/83islzksl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a1c7108c9ca57f291b24837a93f8d6ebf6431ee4 I've been rocking these Azzedine Alaïa sunglasses for a while now, and let me tell you, they're a game-changer. The oversized round frames are not only stylish but also great at shielding my eyes from the sun. And speaking of sun, these bad boys come with 100% UV protection, so you don't have to worry about those pesky rays. The case and cleaning cloth that come with the package are a nice touch, too. They keep your glasses safe and clean when you're not wearing them. The only downside? They can be a bit heavy on the nose, but I guess that's the price you pay for style and protection. All in all, these Aaliyah sunglasses are a fantastic addition to any wardrobe. 🔗Azzedine Alaïa AA0034S Sunglasses - UV Protection, Grey Lenseshttps://preview.redd.it/a2e2qw4tl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3c816e5508685ede16e8bf135a6056e572125709 I've had the pleasure of wearing these Azzedine Alaïa AA0034S sunglasses, and let me tell you, they're a real treat. The shiny black frame and solid grey lens make for a sleek and chic look, perfect for my everyday style. One of the standout features is the 100% UV protection, keeping my eyes shielded from the sun's harsh rays. The tinted lenses are a welcome addition, making them even more practical for outdoor activities. I also appreciate the option to replace the lenses, adding an extra layer of convenience. The cloth and case included are a thoughtful touch, ensuring my sunglasses stay in pristine condition. Made in Italy, these glasses exude a refined and sophisticated quality, perfectly embodying the Azzedine Alaïa brand. All in all, I'm thoroughly impressed with these sunglasses and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a stylish and functional pair. 🔗Stylish Red Acetate Sunglasses by Azzedine Alaïahttps://preview.redd.it/i4w2kugtl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d975433c3ef5137f70579ea6f00783cb96c53746 As someone who recently tried on the Azzedine Alaïa AA0058S 003 53 - Red Sunglasses, I must admit, they left quite the impression. The sleek oval frame shape, combined with the studded accents at the temple, gave them a chic, sophisticated vibe. However, the size might be a bit too large for those with smaller faces, although they're comfortable once you find the right fit. What really stood out was the 100% UV protection and solid lenses, which kept my eyes safe from harmful rays and the glare. As a bonus, the case and cleaning cloth included ensure easy care and storage. This designer piece brings elegance and functionality together in one pair of sunglasses. 🔗Luxury Grey Azzedine Alaïa AA0065S Sunglasseshttps://preview.redd.it/agmp70ttl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0da58f780a14f71cfd8b0aa0ec87679f440e16c0 I recently had the chance to try on a pair of Azzedine Alaïa AA0065S 001 Grey Sunglasses, and let me tell you, the experience was a mix of elegance and comfort. The shining light grey frame, combined with the shiny silver studs, gave a sophisticated yet edgy look, making it perfect for a day out or a night on the town. The recycled acetate frame felt smooth and sturdy in my hands, and the gradient grey lenses provided excellent UV protection and a clear view of my surroundings. However, I also noticed a slightly more minor issue: the shape was a bit square for my face, and I had to adjust the fit several times to find one that suited me best. Nevertheless, the sunglasses' craftsmanship, modern aesthetic, and feminine vibe made it a worthwhile addition to my collection. In conclusion, these Azzedine Alaïa sunglasses embody the perfect blend of luxury and practicality, making them a standout choice for any fashion-forward individual. 🔗Azzedine Alaïa Silver Grey Aviator Sunglasseshttps://preview.redd.it/yb5rs5bul34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44a94e1bc9c251c9747837c0cfecdcdeee0c3374 Last week, I decided to give the Azzedine Alaïa AA0067S 001 Silver Grey Sunglasses a shot. These stylish sunglasses feature a shiny silver metal frame and black leather cover-bridge with a petal cut-out design. The gradient grey lenses provide excellent clarity, making them a perfect addition to my daily wardrobe. On a brisk afternoon, I paired them with a sundress and strappy heels, feeling both chic and comfortable in my new accessory. The frame is a full rim style, which I appreciated for the added durability and snug fit. The aviator shape and 62-11-140 size were ideal for my head, but the sunglasses may not be the best fit for those with larger or smaller heads. One of the standout features of the sunglasses was the meticulous craftsmanship, showcasing Alaïa's renowned timeless legacy. The smooth acetates and couture-inspired embellishments truly make these sunglasses a work of art. While I can't deny the quality and sophistication of these sunglasses, I must admit that the AA0067S 001 Silver Grey Sunglasses do come with a slightly higher price tag. This may deter some potential buyers, who would be better suited for a more budget-friendly option. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed wearing these sunglasses, and their stylish yet timeless design has certainly earned a place in my collection. 🔗Alaïa 61mm Round Ruthenium Sunglasses - Slim, Stylish, and 100% UV Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/lw7efmgul34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c7b6ff3098f722457deffceab64e2293cc5ed92 I recently tried the Alaïa Women's Alaia 61mm Round Sunglasses in the Ruthenium color, and I must say, they are a true fashion statement. The round lenses, combined with the dotted pattern detail, give off an air of sophistication and elegance. One of the standout features is the lightweight nature of the sunglasses, which made them comfortable and hassle-free to wear throughout the day. The adjustable nose pads were a nice touch, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. However, one downside was that I do wish the case and cloth had been included with the purchase. Overall, I would highly recommend these sunglasses for anyone seeking a stylish and functional pair of shades. 🔗Stylish Azzedine Alaïa AA0033S Black Sunglasses - RectangulaSquare Designhttps://preview.redd.it/zdqwjgxul34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7f49f1dfc322246cc77e3616f4068a3a7e748730 The Azzedine Alaia AA0033S Black sunglasses are a head-turning addition to any wardrobe. With an oversized D-shaped frame, they exude a glamorous air that's sure to catch eyes wherever you go. Made with premium glossy black acetate, these sunglasses offer a luxurious feel and a polished look. The dark-gray lenses provide excellent visibility, while the polished silver accents add a touch of sophistication. The triangular case, featuring the label's anagram, is a perfect storage solution between uses. Overall, these sunglasses are an elegant choice for those looking to make a statement. 🔗Stylish Italian Sunglasses for Casual Wear - AA0060S 001 Black & Grey Collectionhttps://preview.redd.it/lgpn75evl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=caa0dcae13ff7d3065ba48bf5b1c1af4835706c3 I recently tried on the Azzedine Alaia AA0060S 001 Black Grey Sunglasses, and I must say, the soft squared shape was a delight on my face. The Pètal, an iconic code, added a unique and distinctive signature to these sunglasses. I appreciate the four silver petal studs carefully applied on the front. Beveled acetate provided volume and boldness without compromising comfort. While I enjoyed the stylish features of these sunglasses, I did notice that they didn't have any mirrored or polarized lenses, which might be a downside for some users under bright sunlight or driving conditions. Nevertheless, the overall look and feel of the AA0060S 001 Black Grey Sunglasses made me feel like a true fashionista. 🔗Azzedine Alaïa Luxury Recycled Acetate SunglassesSlipping on the Azzedine Alaïa AA0065S 002 Black Grey Sunglasses feels like a fashion statement. The shiny solid black recycled acetate frame adds a touch of luxury to my outfit, while the gradient grey lens provides a practical touch with UV protection. The square frame shape is bold, yet the full-rim style lends an air of sophistication. What I love most about these sunglasses is their femininity and uniqueness, which echoes Alaïa's timeless legacy. The sculptural approach and meticulous craftsmanship are evident in the smooth acetate frames, which glow through the edgy cuts inspired by the sensuality of the body. However, the couture-inspired embellishments might not be everyone's cup of tea. Overall, the Azzedine Alaïa AA0065S 002 Black Grey Sunglasses are a bold accessory that combines style with practicality. They add a touch of elegance to any outfit while protecting my eyes from the sun. 🔗Chic Aaliyah Stud Detail Sunglasses with Shiny Silver Frame and Grey Lens📷Azzedine Alaïa's AA0007S 002 sunglasses made my day brighter on a hot, sunny afternoon. The monochromatic lenses minimized glare, allowing me to clearly see the world. The stud detailing on these oversized frames made me feel like a celebrity, and the square shape added a touch of edginess. But as much as I loved wearing them, I found the sunglasses a bit heavy on my nose. Despite my minor concern, these sunglasses are worth the weight and a great addition to any wardrobe. 🔗Azzedine Alaïa Brown Sunglasses for Ultimate Style and Eye Protection📷Give these Azzedine Alaïa AA0056S 003 sunglasses a try for a fashionable and unique twist to your eyewear collection. I've been using these sunglasses daily and I can't help but be drawn to the shiny, gradient transparent dark brown to brown frame that adds a touch of sophistication to my look. What stood out to me, though, is the solid brown lens that filters out 100% of harmful UV rays, protecting my eyes from the sun's harsh glare. The sunglasses feature a square full rim shape that fits comfortably on my face, while also making a statement about my style. The Azzedine Alaïa brand is known for its originality and quality, and these sunglasses definitely carry that reputation forward. 🔗Aalay Hollow Square Sunglasses - White📷I recently had the chance to try on the Alaïa Women's 48mm Oval Sunglasses in white, and I was quite impressed with their sleek design and comfort. The oversized frame adds a touch of elegance, while the solid lenses offer great 100% UV protection. It's always a boon that these sunglasses are made from Acetate, making them lightweight and stylish. One thing I noticed was the saddle nose bridge, which did require a slight adjustment in the beginning. However, once I had them fitted perfectly, they were incredibly comfortable to wear. Another feature I adored was the 48mm lens width making them super easy to see through. I do wish the sunglasses came with a case and a cloth, but overall, the Alaïa Women's Oval Sunglasses were an amazing addition to my daily style. 🔗Azzedine Alaïa Nude Pink Oversized Round Sunglasses with CR39 Lenses📷I recently found myself reaching for the Azzedine Alaïa AA0061S 002 Beige Grey Sunglasses, and I've been pleasantly surprised by my experience. The oversize round shape makes me feel like a lady, while the bold acetate front frame combines beautifully with the light metal temples to create an overall sophisticated look. I love the petal pattern décor on the external part of the temples, which adds a unique touch to the sunglasses. Wearing them makes me feel confident and stylish, and I've received several compliments on them. However, I noticed that the lenses can be a bit reflective in bright sunlight, but overall, I'm quite satisfied with my purchase. Buyer's GuideWelcome to our Aaliyah Sunglasses Buyer's Guide! Here, we will discuss important features to consider, general advice, and helpful tips when choosing your perfect pair of Aaliyah Sunglasses. Whether you're a fan of the late artist or simply appreciate her style, these sunglasses offer a unique blend of fashion and function.1. Style and DesignAaliyah was known for her edgy and chic style, so it's important to choose sunglasses that reflect this. Some popular designs include the Aaliyah Duckboot Sunglasses and the Aaliyah Butterfly Sunglasses. The style and design of the sunglasses will also play a role in how well they fit your face shape and complement your features. Consider factors like frame shape, lens shape, and color when making your selection.📷 https://preview.redd.it/9n04xcexl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=28a7e2c350d7524426cbd9905fc2113ec50b5983 2. Fit and ComfortAaliyah Sunglasses should not only look great but also feel comfortable on your face. Narrow frames, for example, may not be comfortable for those with wide faces, while wider frames could be too bulky for narrow faces. Pay attention to the materials used in the sunglasses, as well, as some may be more breathable and lightweight than others. In general, well-fitted sunglasses should not slide or pinch when worn.3. UV ProtectionSunglasses must offer adequate UV protection to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Look for sunglasses that have a UV rating of at least 400, which covers the full spectrum of UV rays. This will help maintain eye health and prevent age-related eye damage such as cataracts and macular degeneration.4. PolarizationPolarized lenses can be a great feature for those who spend time outdoors or in environments with glare. These lenses reduce glare and reflective light, improving your comfort and safety. They can also enhance visual clarity and make it easier to see in bright sunlight or around water. https://preview.redd.it/bopv0nwxl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c37a0f09393bd6c6968c4b0162c65d6ceb7a81b4 5. Frame MaterialAaliyah Sunglasses come in a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and acetate. Each has its pros and cons. Plastic frames are typically lightweight and affordable, but some may not be as durable as metal frames. Metal frames offer a more sophisticated look but can be heavier and more expensive. Acetate frames are known for their durability and elegant appearance but can be heavier and more expensive as well.6. Lens OptionsDifferent lenses offer varied benefits depending on your needs. For example, sunglasses with mirrored or gradient lenses can help reduce glare and protect your eyes from additional light during outdoor activities. Polarized lenses are ideal for driving or sports, as they reduce glare and provide better contrast. Transition lenses change automatically from clear indoors to dark outdoors, offering a convenient option for those who prefer not to switch between multiple pairs of sunglasses.7. Accessories and MaintenanceTo ensure your Aaliyah Sunglasses stay in optimal condition, consider purchasing a protective case and cleaning cloth. These accessories will protect the sunglasses from damage and maintain their appearance over time. In terms of maintenance, clean your sunglasses regularly using a gentle solution designed for eyewear. Avoid using abrasive materials or cleaning solutions that may cause damage. https://preview.redd.it/xum9fsjyl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=224d93c975d229d949f2d97f550d862ecacb4b9e 8. Budget and Shopping ConsiderationsWhile Aaliyah Sunglasses can be purchased at various price points, it's essential to consider the balance between quality, style, and cost. Higher-priced sunglasses generally offer better materials, construction, and features, although this may not always be the case. Be sure to read customer reviews and compare different options to ensure you're making an informed decision. You may also consider purchasing from authorized retailers to ensure authenticity.9. Customer Support and PoliciesBefore making a purchase, be sure to review the retailer's customer support policies and return or exchange options. A reliable retailer should offer straightforward and helpful policies that put the customer's needs first.FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/dk41w3tyl34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a80dea64c89f587ce586a9b5cc4694f61dae897f What are Aaliyah sunglasses?Aaliyah sunglasses are a line of trendy eyewear inspired by the late singer Aaliyah Dana Haughton. The collection features a mix of modern and retro styles, perfect for anyone looking to make a statement.Where can I buy Aaliyah sunglasses?Aaliyah sunglasses are available at various online retailers and authorized resellers. You can look for them on popular shopping websites like Amazon, eBay, or the official Aaliyah shop. Make sure to check the seller's credentials before purchasing to ensure authenticity.What are the frame materials used for Aaliyah sunglasses?Aaliyah sunglasses are typically made from a combination of acetate, metal, and plastic materials. Acetate is a popular choice for the frame body due to its lightweight and durable properties. Metal and plastic materials are mostly used for the temples and nose pads, adding both style and comfort.What is the lens material used for Aaliyah sunglasses?Aaliyah sunglasses feature lenses made from polycarbonate or polarized materials. Polycarbonate lenses are durable, lightweight, and offer excellent UV protection. Polarized lenses help reduce glare and provide a more comfortable visual experience during outdoor activities.Do Aaliyah sunglasses come with different lens color options?Yes, Aaliyah sunglasses come in a variety of lens color options, including solid colors and gradient shades. The lenses help block harmful UV rays and provide optimal visual comfort. Your choice of lens color can depend on your personal preference and the level of darkness you prefer.How can I determine the size of Aaliyah sunglasses that will fit me best?To determine the size of Aaliyah sunglasses that will fit you best, measure the width of your face at the bridge of your nose and the distance between your temple and your jaw. Refer to the sizing chart provided by the seller when making a purchase, or consult the manufacturer's specifications for a better fit.How should I care for my Aaliyah sunglasses?To ensure a long-lasting, high-quality pair of Aaliyah sunglasses, clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth and a special lens cleaner. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or harsh chemicals. Store them in a protective case when not in use to prevent scratches and damage.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.02 07:57 Echobins This run was rock solid. (10/18) I didn’t know if I would get a smack down but I managed to rollout of the way and head smash my way through. I will really need to grow my skills for the next run. Can you guess the type?
 | Rock was the toughest run I have had in a while. There were several fights I got stumped on and usually not where I was expecting. I thought misty would stall me but I blew through her like nothing but then surge stopped me for a long time. Bruno was a really tough nut to crack. Lucky Lorelei rolled ice which was easy to crack. MVP goes to cradily mainly for his special prowess as few rock types can hit or resist specially. submitted by Echobins to pokemonradicalred [link] [comments] |
2024.06.02 07:56 TheMintyLeaf 29F: Can clearing your throat often cause sickness? Not sure if I was already getting sick or caused it today.
So today I was "sucking up" phlegm from my throat and I did it when my throat felt dry (just finished coffee and didnt drink water right after). It was a hot sunny day too so I felt a bit dry. I felt something stuck a bit and decided to clearmy throat.
Well it hurt but I did get something else out instead of phlegm. I guess i sucked up so hard that I got a tonsil stone out. Which is great cause i didnt know i had some but now my throat feels dry and achey a bit. I have been dri king water and it still feels super dry hours later. Now idk if I have an upcoming sore throat.
The reason I question if I was getting sick was because my kids caught a cold 2 weeks ago. They're already over it a week ago. So I wasn't sure if I already caught it and the symptoms are coming now, or I just caused my own sore throat just now coincidentally.
If it helps, I did blow my nose in the morning (as usual with allergies) and there was less boogers, yet stickier? It feels like my nose is drier than usual to the point it feels stingy?
submitted by TheMintyLeaf to AskDocs [link] [comments]
Well it hurt but I did get something else out instead of phlegm. I guess i sucked up so hard that I got a tonsil stone out. Which is great cause i didnt know i had some but now my throat feels dry and achey a bit. I have been dri king water and it still feels super dry hours later. Now idk if I have an upcoming sore throat.
The reason I question if I was getting sick was because my kids caught a cold 2 weeks ago. They're already over it a week ago. So I wasn't sure if I already caught it and the symptoms are coming now, or I just caused my own sore throat just now coincidentally.
If it helps, I did blow my nose in the morning (as usual with allergies) and there was less boogers, yet stickier? It feels like my nose is drier than usual to the point it feels stingy?
2024.06.02 07:48 Future-Rutabaga9258 [QCRIT] ASCENSION TO HELL - Adult Contemporary Fantasy (114K, 3rd Attempt) + First 300 Words
Hello everyone. I can't thank you enough for all the help I've received here on this subreddit. I've taken your valuable advice and fixed a number of things, but I'm sure I'm still missing some things. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
--
Query
Dear [Agent],
Mark, a journalist who reports from troubled regions to make the world a better place, goes to Heaven after an untimely death. With all the comforts God has to offer, Mark grows increasingly frustrated with the lack of challenges. So when he discovers that Heaven has a therapy for unhappy souls like himself, he gives it a try. And Mark is horrified to learn that the therapy is the live-streaming of Hell's tortures, also known as Hellflix.
Worse, if Mark doesn't complete the therapy and become happy, he will be condemned to Hell. He gives in and becomes a voyeur of others' misery, but then he realizes that new Hellflix episodes are reruns. With the revelation that communication with Hell has been cut off, Heaven wants to find out what's going on. And fast, as its citizens—including Mark—are driven mad with curiosity and concern.
Mark, with his journalistic experience in the harsh conditions, is sent to investigate Hell, where he discovers a shocking truth. There has been a revolution, and now free, many sinners are seeking repentance. While Heaven exploits Hell's political divisions to send the guilty back to suffer, the revolutionists urge Mark to expose Hellflix's dark secrets and unite Hell. He will be eternally damned with billions of others if they fail, but Mark is up for the risk if he can make the world better. He just doesn't know which way to go—bring happiness back to Heaven or save Hell from eternal torment, especially when he doubts that the wicked can truly be redeemed.
ASCENSION TO HELL is an adult contemporary fantasy at 114,000 words, a standalone book that has series potential. It will appeal to those who enjoyed mystery aspect of paranormal realms as in SIGN HERE by Claudia Lux, and modern-day take on the conflict between Heaven and Hell as in THE LIBRARY OF THE UNWRITTEN by A.J. Hackwith.
[BIO] I specifically wrote to you due to [insert reason here]. I am happy to make the full manuscript available upon request and eagerly await your response.
Warm regards,
[Insert name]
First 300
Long was the line. But I won’t add some typical adverbs here, like unbelievably and infinitely, to emphasize the point. Well, it might make our hardship sound like that of people waiting in line for a new iPhone, and I hate to give you that impression. In truth, the real pain of the line came more from not knowing where it would end than from its length. The Line of the Dead moved forward, twisting and turning like a giant snake. And I, one of the countless scales clinging to its sinister and hideous body, could only wait in vain, no matter how fast it moved or how far it went.
Why did I not think of breaking free and running away, then? Before I tell you this, I must tell you about the six of us who endured the long wait together.
First up goes Lewis.
I was behind the line before the hot Spanish sun, reflected off the chrome bumper of the truck that had hit me, faded from sight. We were standing in a wasteland where the vast, desolate plain offered nothing but peculiar rocks on the distant horizon. I looked behind me to find a multitude of people, their numbers growing, perhaps wearing the same bewildered faces as mine. I hadn’t taken a single step, yet these people had already placed me in line and made me an inseparable part of it.
Then I looked forward again and met the black eyes of a handsome young man who must have died right before me. The man, whose name I would later learn was Lewis, was confused, angry, frustrated, and most of all, in love. There was enough will in his blazing eyes to kill me again if I had thwarted a certain goal of his. Not finding what he was looking for behind him, the man ran straight ahead.
submitted by Future-Rutabaga9258 to PubTips [link] [comments]
--
Query
Dear [Agent],
Mark, a journalist who reports from troubled regions to make the world a better place, goes to Heaven after an untimely death. With all the comforts God has to offer, Mark grows increasingly frustrated with the lack of challenges. So when he discovers that Heaven has a therapy for unhappy souls like himself, he gives it a try. And Mark is horrified to learn that the therapy is the live-streaming of Hell's tortures, also known as Hellflix.
Worse, if Mark doesn't complete the therapy and become happy, he will be condemned to Hell. He gives in and becomes a voyeur of others' misery, but then he realizes that new Hellflix episodes are reruns. With the revelation that communication with Hell has been cut off, Heaven wants to find out what's going on. And fast, as its citizens—including Mark—are driven mad with curiosity and concern.
Mark, with his journalistic experience in the harsh conditions, is sent to investigate Hell, where he discovers a shocking truth. There has been a revolution, and now free, many sinners are seeking repentance. While Heaven exploits Hell's political divisions to send the guilty back to suffer, the revolutionists urge Mark to expose Hellflix's dark secrets and unite Hell. He will be eternally damned with billions of others if they fail, but Mark is up for the risk if he can make the world better. He just doesn't know which way to go—bring happiness back to Heaven or save Hell from eternal torment, especially when he doubts that the wicked can truly be redeemed.
ASCENSION TO HELL is an adult contemporary fantasy at 114,000 words, a standalone book that has series potential. It will appeal to those who enjoyed mystery aspect of paranormal realms as in SIGN HERE by Claudia Lux, and modern-day take on the conflict between Heaven and Hell as in THE LIBRARY OF THE UNWRITTEN by A.J. Hackwith.
[BIO] I specifically wrote to you due to [insert reason here]. I am happy to make the full manuscript available upon request and eagerly await your response.
Warm regards,
[Insert name]
First 300
Long was the line. But I won’t add some typical adverbs here, like unbelievably and infinitely, to emphasize the point. Well, it might make our hardship sound like that of people waiting in line for a new iPhone, and I hate to give you that impression. In truth, the real pain of the line came more from not knowing where it would end than from its length. The Line of the Dead moved forward, twisting and turning like a giant snake. And I, one of the countless scales clinging to its sinister and hideous body, could only wait in vain, no matter how fast it moved or how far it went.
Why did I not think of breaking free and running away, then? Before I tell you this, I must tell you about the six of us who endured the long wait together.
First up goes Lewis.
I was behind the line before the hot Spanish sun, reflected off the chrome bumper of the truck that had hit me, faded from sight. We were standing in a wasteland where the vast, desolate plain offered nothing but peculiar rocks on the distant horizon. I looked behind me to find a multitude of people, their numbers growing, perhaps wearing the same bewildered faces as mine. I hadn’t taken a single step, yet these people had already placed me in line and made me an inseparable part of it.
Then I looked forward again and met the black eyes of a handsome young man who must have died right before me. The man, whose name I would later learn was Lewis, was confused, angry, frustrated, and most of all, in love. There was enough will in his blazing eyes to kill me again if I had thwarted a certain goal of his. Not finding what he was looking for behind him, the man ran straight ahead.
2024.06.02 07:41 Sweet-Count2557 Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives
 | Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] Experience Rock and Roll Paradise at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives Price Level: $$$$ Hotel Class: 0 Welcome to the ultimate rock and roll paradise in the heart of the Maldives - Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo. Situated within the breathtaking Emboodhoo Lagoon, this hotel is part of the first integrated resort destination in the Maldives. Just a short 15-minute boat ride away from the airport, guests can easily immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of this iconic hotel. With 178 spacious guestrooms, including family suites, beach villas, overwater villas, and two-bedroom overwater villas, there is a perfect accommodation option for every type of traveler. Whether you choose to stay on the beautiful island or opt for an overwater villa, you can expect nothing less than a luxurious and unforgettable experience at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. Amenities of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives At Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives, guests can enjoy a wide range of amenities to enhance their stay. The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and balounge, where guests can indulge in delicious meals and refreshing drinks. For those looking to relax and unwind, the hotel features a spa, where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. The hotel also offers a fitness center, perfect for those looking to stay active during their vacation. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool and private beaches, providing the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. With amenities such as free internet, room service, and airport transportation, guests can enjoy a convenient and comfortable stay at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. Contact of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives 119606651400 Akasdhoo South Male Atoll, 00960 rsvn@hrhmaldives.com http://www.hardrockhotels.com/maldives Location of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives Pictures of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives Tips for Staying in Hard Rock Hotel Maldives You can never go wrong selecting Hard Rock Maldives.. BEST HOTEL IN MALDIVES 🇲🇻The diamond overwater pool villas are really niceThe Hard Rock Pub, was not too sensitive to predicament. The attitude was a little disappointing.We went in the end of June and did not have any problem. We had good access to the pool and the beach and we respected the country's laws.You wont be disappointed. Reviews of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives in Akasdhoo, Maldives Book Hard Rock Hotel Maldives Now !!! Tags |
2024.06.02 07:37 kingofstormandfire This the Top 6 singles of 1971 according to Billboard year-end list. Which one is your favourite?
Despite an impressive showing by Diana Ross, in the end, Simon & Garfunkel won the 1970 is a very decisive victory.
***
BTW, for singles that are credited are Double A-Sides, I’ve decided to just put the most famous song of the pair on the poll.
***
1) “Joy to the World” (Three Dog Night) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVcpKjXYa5c
This is the 2nd of 3 chart-toppers for American rock band Three Dog Night. It was written by Hoyt Axton. The song is a mix of rock and pop with a playful, feel-good vibe. Hoyt Axton wrote the song, originally intended as a part of a children's television program. The song's whimsical and nonsensical lyrics reflect this origin. "Joy to the World" is a cheerful and upbeat song that celebrates happiness and unity. The lyrics are light-hearted and fun, with the famous opening line, "Jeremiah was a bullfrog," setting a playful tone. The song features a lively arrangement with prominent electric guitar, keyboards, and brass. The production is energetic, capturing the band's dynamic performance. Chuck Negron, one of the band's three lead vocalists, sings the lead vocals on this track, delivering a spirited and enthusiastic performance.
Very enjoyable song. I like Three Dog Night quite a bit. A fun band, though basically a covers band.
2) “Maggie May” (Rod Stewart) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlFPDi1B-jM
The first of three solo chart-toppers for Sir Rod Stewart, it was written by Stewart and Martin Quittenton. The song blends elements of folk rock and blues rock. The lyrics of "Maggie May" are semi-autobiographical, recounting a young man's relationship with an older woman. Stewart has said the song is based on his own experience of losing his virginity at a jazz festival. The song features a distinctive acoustic guitar riff, played by Martin Quittenton, along with mandolin played by Ray Jackson of Lindisfarne. The arrangement also includes electric guitar, bass, drums, and Stewart's raspy vocals. "Maggie May" is widely praised for its storytelling, Stewart's emotive vocal performance, and its memorable melody. “Maggie May” was credited as a double A-Side with “Reason to Believe”, both from the album Every Picture Tells a Story. The song has been included in numerous "best of" lists and is considered a classic rock staple.
A monster of a song. Just wow. One of my favourites from this era.
3) “It’s Too Late” (Carole King) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkKxmnrRVHo
This is the sole chart-topper by singer-songwriter Carole King, but as a songwriter, King had written/co-written many Top 10 hits prior to this including several No. 1s. It was billed as a double A-side alongside “I Feel the Earth Move”. Both songs came from her second album Tapestry, which would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of the 1970s, and has been certified Diamond in the US. The music of “It’s Too Late” was composed by Carole King, but the lyrics were written by Toni Stern. Reportedly, the song might be about James Taylor who had dated Stern, and who would score a No. 1 hit of his own covering King’s song "You've Got a Friend”. “It’s Too Late” is a blend of soft rock, pop, and jazz influences. The lyrics deal with the end of a romantic relationship, capturing the bittersweet emotions of accepting that a relationship is over.
Nice song. It’s not my favourite off Tapestry, but it’s a solid song.
4) “One Bad Apple” (The Osmonds) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-pUJAWzUk0
The sole-charter by American pop group The Osmonds, a group of brothers who were teen idols in the early 1970s (particularly younger brother Donny Osmond). It was written by George Jackson and is a blend of pop and R&B, with a sound reminiscent of Motown and especially The Jackson 5. In fact, this was to be recorded by The Jackson 5, but The Jackson 5 themselves weren’t impressed and so it wasn’t released. The Osmonds recorded "One Bad Apple" in 1970, with Merrill Osmond providing the lead vocals while Donny Osmond sings part of the main hook. The song is about romantic reassurance. The lyrics tell a story of a boy trying to convince a girl that although she has been hurt by a past relationship ("one bad apple"), she should not let that experience ruin her faith in love. The song features a lively arrangement with upbeat rhythms, harmonised vocals, and an energetic pop sound. The production includes prominent use of strings and brass, adding to its vibrant feel.
People hate this song, and I get it. It's such a Jackson 5 rip off, but I love it. So catchy. I like the Osmonds.
5) “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” (The Bee Gees) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzhmwJI8Bps
The first of nine US chart-toppers by The Bee Gees, this song was written by Barry Gibb and Robin Gibb. The song is a blend of soft rock and pop, with soulful influences. The song was written during a period when the Gibb brothers were reconciling after a brief breakup of the Bee Gees. The lyrics reflect themes of heartache and longing for resolution.
I dunno, I like The Bees Gees a lot, but I find this song painfully boring and unmemorable. They had another song from around this time called "Lonely Days" which went #2 Hot 100 and #1 Cash Box that I think is much much better.
6) "Indian Reservation (The Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian)" (Raiders) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVxYL2sI1oM
The sole chart-topper by the rock group the Raiders, formerly known as Paul Revere and the Raiders. As Paul Revere and the Raiders, the group had enjoyed multiple Top 40 hits during the mid-to-late-60s, including several Top 10 hits. The song was written by John D. Loudermilk. The song was originally recorded by Marvin Rainwater in 1959 under the title "The Pale Faced Indian," but it did not achieve significant success. The Raiders version however was a No. 1 single. The song's lyrics recount the forced relocation of Native Americans, particularly focusing on the Cherokee's removal from their ancestral lands in the south-eastern United States, which is often referred to as the "Trail of Tears." It serves as a lament for the suffering and loss experienced by the Cherokee people.
I actually really like this song, but I have a feeling most people in this sub won’t.
***
Rounding out the Top 10 is “Go Away Little Girl” (Donny Osmond) (No. 7), “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (John Denver) (No. 8), "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)" (The Temptations) (No. 9) and “Knock Three Times” (Tony Orlando & Dawn) (No. 10).
An interesting and eclectic Top 10. Not the best (and not indicative of the behemoth that is 1971 in terms of music quality), but certainly not the worst of the 70s.
View Poll
submitted by kingofstormandfire to ToddintheShadow [link] [comments]
***
BTW, for singles that are credited are Double A-Sides, I’ve decided to just put the most famous song of the pair on the poll.
***
1) “Joy to the World” (Three Dog Night) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVcpKjXYa5c
This is the 2nd of 3 chart-toppers for American rock band Three Dog Night. It was written by Hoyt Axton. The song is a mix of rock and pop with a playful, feel-good vibe. Hoyt Axton wrote the song, originally intended as a part of a children's television program. The song's whimsical and nonsensical lyrics reflect this origin. "Joy to the World" is a cheerful and upbeat song that celebrates happiness and unity. The lyrics are light-hearted and fun, with the famous opening line, "Jeremiah was a bullfrog," setting a playful tone. The song features a lively arrangement with prominent electric guitar, keyboards, and brass. The production is energetic, capturing the band's dynamic performance. Chuck Negron, one of the band's three lead vocalists, sings the lead vocals on this track, delivering a spirited and enthusiastic performance.
Very enjoyable song. I like Three Dog Night quite a bit. A fun band, though basically a covers band.
2) “Maggie May” (Rod Stewart) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlFPDi1B-jM
The first of three solo chart-toppers for Sir Rod Stewart, it was written by Stewart and Martin Quittenton. The song blends elements of folk rock and blues rock. The lyrics of "Maggie May" are semi-autobiographical, recounting a young man's relationship with an older woman. Stewart has said the song is based on his own experience of losing his virginity at a jazz festival. The song features a distinctive acoustic guitar riff, played by Martin Quittenton, along with mandolin played by Ray Jackson of Lindisfarne. The arrangement also includes electric guitar, bass, drums, and Stewart's raspy vocals. "Maggie May" is widely praised for its storytelling, Stewart's emotive vocal performance, and its memorable melody. “Maggie May” was credited as a double A-Side with “Reason to Believe”, both from the album Every Picture Tells a Story. The song has been included in numerous "best of" lists and is considered a classic rock staple.
A monster of a song. Just wow. One of my favourites from this era.
3) “It’s Too Late” (Carole King) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkKxmnrRVHo
This is the sole chart-topper by singer-songwriter Carole King, but as a songwriter, King had written/co-written many Top 10 hits prior to this including several No. 1s. It was billed as a double A-side alongside “I Feel the Earth Move”. Both songs came from her second album Tapestry, which would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of the 1970s, and has been certified Diamond in the US. The music of “It’s Too Late” was composed by Carole King, but the lyrics were written by Toni Stern. Reportedly, the song might be about James Taylor who had dated Stern, and who would score a No. 1 hit of his own covering King’s song "You've Got a Friend”. “It’s Too Late” is a blend of soft rock, pop, and jazz influences. The lyrics deal with the end of a romantic relationship, capturing the bittersweet emotions of accepting that a relationship is over.
Nice song. It’s not my favourite off Tapestry, but it’s a solid song.
4) “One Bad Apple” (The Osmonds) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-pUJAWzUk0
The sole-charter by American pop group The Osmonds, a group of brothers who were teen idols in the early 1970s (particularly younger brother Donny Osmond). It was written by George Jackson and is a blend of pop and R&B, with a sound reminiscent of Motown and especially The Jackson 5. In fact, this was to be recorded by The Jackson 5, but The Jackson 5 themselves weren’t impressed and so it wasn’t released. The Osmonds recorded "One Bad Apple" in 1970, with Merrill Osmond providing the lead vocals while Donny Osmond sings part of the main hook. The song is about romantic reassurance. The lyrics tell a story of a boy trying to convince a girl that although she has been hurt by a past relationship ("one bad apple"), she should not let that experience ruin her faith in love. The song features a lively arrangement with upbeat rhythms, harmonised vocals, and an energetic pop sound. The production includes prominent use of strings and brass, adding to its vibrant feel.
People hate this song, and I get it. It's such a Jackson 5 rip off, but I love it. So catchy. I like the Osmonds.
5) “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” (The Bee Gees) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzhmwJI8Bps
The first of nine US chart-toppers by The Bee Gees, this song was written by Barry Gibb and Robin Gibb. The song is a blend of soft rock and pop, with soulful influences. The song was written during a period when the Gibb brothers were reconciling after a brief breakup of the Bee Gees. The lyrics reflect themes of heartache and longing for resolution.
I dunno, I like The Bees Gees a lot, but I find this song painfully boring and unmemorable. They had another song from around this time called "Lonely Days" which went #2 Hot 100 and #1 Cash Box that I think is much much better.
6) "Indian Reservation (The Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian)" (Raiders) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVxYL2sI1oM
The sole chart-topper by the rock group the Raiders, formerly known as Paul Revere and the Raiders. As Paul Revere and the Raiders, the group had enjoyed multiple Top 40 hits during the mid-to-late-60s, including several Top 10 hits. The song was written by John D. Loudermilk. The song was originally recorded by Marvin Rainwater in 1959 under the title "The Pale Faced Indian," but it did not achieve significant success. The Raiders version however was a No. 1 single. The song's lyrics recount the forced relocation of Native Americans, particularly focusing on the Cherokee's removal from their ancestral lands in the south-eastern United States, which is often referred to as the "Trail of Tears." It serves as a lament for the suffering and loss experienced by the Cherokee people.
I actually really like this song, but I have a feeling most people in this sub won’t.
***
Rounding out the Top 10 is “Go Away Little Girl” (Donny Osmond) (No. 7), “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (John Denver) (No. 8), "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)" (The Temptations) (No. 9) and “Knock Three Times” (Tony Orlando & Dawn) (No. 10).
An interesting and eclectic Top 10. Not the best (and not indicative of the behemoth that is 1971 in terms of music quality), but certainly not the worst of the 70s.
View Poll
2024.06.02 07:36 Lopsided_Director321 Story I Wrote a few Years Ago— what do you think? Should I persue this?
Inebriated Conversations
submitted by Lopsided_Director321 to writingcritiques [link] [comments]
After eight long and grueling hours, we began our rapid descent from the heavens. I never really got the: “did it hurt when you fell from heaven” pickup line until we hit the tarmac. The force of the impact nearly knocked my head into the seat in front of me, so fuck yeah, it hurt when I fell from heaven. I’d imagine even Lucifer himself had a softer landing than we did. He also didn’t have to endure the stomach churning and nauseating food that was served on the plane, but I digress, at least we had finally reached our destination. A land not so far away that only varied in appearance, but the truth was this mystical and magical land, deep down, was no different from the place I grew up or attend college. As I waited in purgatory, the security line, I began wondering if I was dreaming. Was I really in London or even a different country for that matter? The line, which seemed so much longer than the European and the U.K., line was filled with fellow Americans. Perhaps they are still acrimonious about us beating them in the Revolutionary War, so they decided that this was ample punishment for our victory. Whatever the case, we finally made it through security, then collected our bags. I saw my relatively new bag with the bowtie on the handle and was relieved that it had not been lost or left in the United States. We met our tour guide, Emma, who at first glance seemed to be very different. She had an unusual hair cut that was much shorter than ones most woman her age would have, but I soon learned that her appearance, much like London’s, would not be any indication of what lies beyond. When we finally escaped from limbo, the airport, we were put on a coach bus, and taken to our hotel. I was exhausted and in need of a shower, but all I could do was drop my luggage off, then swiftly return to the lobby. As we stood outside in the crisp, refreshing air, we were handed our subway passes, or as they say, “tube passes.” We followed our guide, Emma, on a short walk to the underground. When our group finally descended the stairs and made our way to the map, a map Virgil couldn’t even navigate, we began our journey that involved the same punishment as those afforded to people in the eighth level of hell. We walked endlessly, 10.6 miles, and viewed the most popular tourist attractions London had to offer. I was surrounded by beautiful statues, fantastic architecture, and attractive people whose dialect could captivate almost anyone. At first, like everyone else, I was completely and utterly captivated by it all, because it was a completely different world. Our group finished the day with a mile and a half walk to the Globe Theatre, where we saw Shakespeare’s play, Comedy of Errors. My fellow students and I stood, as our professors sat comfortably watching the play. During the production, all I could think about was my numb legs and my aching feet. I tried drowning the pain with a few glasses of overly priced and nasty wines, but my attempt was to no avail. For once in my life, I knew what it was like to experience actual physical agony, not just the tedious and never-ending emotional kind. It wasn’t the lake of fire or some frozen wasteland, but that shit was still excruciating. After the play, we struggled to find a new passageway to the hot and crowded underworld, the tube, but luckily, I had service on my phone, so we found it. We finally made it back to the hotel around eleven in the evening. After a long day of flying and an excess of walking, I had never been as excited as I was to climb into a bed that was, quite frankly, too small for my six-foot-five physique. To anyone reading this, don’t worry, I’m not planning on giving a day to day synopsis of what I saw while I was abroad, because the sights aren’t what truly matter. I mean, I could just rant about Buckingham Palace and its beauty, Windsor Castle and its enormous layout, the Tower of London and its history, the Natural History Museum and its priceless artifacts, Stratford upon Avon and Shakespeare’s life, Oxford and it’s impressive library, Cornwall and its tranquil beaches, the Minack Theatre and its sublimity, or the Ashmolean Museum and its Jeff Koons exhibition, but that shit has no genuine meaning to it. I’m not going to waste your time by writing about some tourist sites that you could see in almost any travel magazine about the U.K., so if that’s what you are looking for stop reading. I suggest you pick up a travel magazine and read it until you are content, but if you want to read something real, then I suggest you continue. The reality is, the things I’ll take from this trip are the inebriated conversations I had with others. I not only gave these people advice about their lives; I learned something new about my own. I, ***** *******, am the Barstool Prophet, who descended from the heavens prepared to spout wisdom and retardation. Before I divulge the serious and deep conversations I experienced abroad, I want to let you know that the other person and I were under the influence of alcohol. I know what you are thinking, but alcohol has been a part of human culture since 7,000 B.C.; to put that into perspective, man invented alcohol before the wheel. From what I've seen in my lifetime some people drink to forget, some drink to remember, some drink to punish themselves, and some drink to converse with others. I fall into the latter category, but while I was in the U.K., I encountered people whose purpose for drinking was similar to mine as well as people that would fall in the other categories. I never really got the saying, "It's better to be a glass half full person, than a glass half empty person." I get the whole positivity aspect of the saying; however, I'd trust a "glass half empty person" far more, because they'd just order another drink. I am in no way trying to promote alcoholism; in reality, I am just trying to explain how alcohol can fuel an in-depth conversation. The Latin proverb "In Vino Veritas" states that "In Wine there is Truth"; wiser words have never been spoken. Alcohol allows people to speak their hidden thoughts and desires, especially to a stranger like me.Emma
As I stated earlier, Emma was our tour guide, who sported a relatively short and somewhat masculine haircut. Luckily, I had consumed enough alcohol at the time of her arrival to ask her why she chose that specific style. After giving me a vague: “because I like it” response, she clutched her glass of wine and forced it down. We talked about her occupation and how lonely traveling could get, but she seemed like she was familiar with the feeling of loneliness. She asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up, and I said, “I want to be a lawyer.” Emma slammed her glass down and began to laugh hysterically; she said, “Seriously?” I found her response quite peculiar until she revealed that her ex-husband was a lawyer. He was devoted to his job and always worked long hours, which did not bother her, at first. I surmise that his lack of interest in her is what led to their separation. After a long moment of silence, I gulped my drink down and gained the courage to ask: “do you think the relationship you had with him prepared you for this job?” She paused and began to think intently. She took a sip of her wine, laughed, and said, “I guess so, that’s one positive thing I got out of the relationship.” The chat continued with talk of food, politics, weather, and other small-talk topics, but then we somehow made it back to her haircut. Emma told me that she was bi-sexual, which, despite the tell-tell signs in her appearance, isn’t something she shares with most people. I told her that homophobia and racism is a major part of the culture that I grew up in, which surprised her. She couldn’t comprehend how someone with that upbringing could be so openminded. I responded with one word and one word only, “Self-Awareness.” I came to the realization that in life people are consciously and unconsciously molded by those around them, but at the end of the day, it is their choice to decide who they are and what they believe. Emma’s marriage may not have been picture perfect, but she was still able to take something positive from it. As much as we don’t want to admit it, even the worst of our relationships impact us in a positive way.Phillip Goldsmith
Before I get into this incredibly intense and somewhat depressing story, I’d like to describe its setting. I was sitting on a red velvet couch, drinking Jack Daniels Honey in a tall glass with one ice cube. I know what you are thinking, but I was not in a strip club. Our hotel’s game room/ bar area looked like an American strip club, not that I’ve ever been in one. Like seriously, if a few poles and dancers were added, I’d feel like I was at the Red Carpet, which is a strip club near where I live, but again, I may or may not have been there. I had finished half my bottle when Phil walked in, and I could immediately tell that he was hurting on the inside. Excluding dumbass frat guys, not very many people drink vodka straight out of the bottle with the intention of finishing it. He sat next to us, so I reached my hand out and said, “Hey man, what’s your name?” He said, “Hello, I am Phillip Goldsmith.” I responded as anyone would and said, “That’s a badass name!” We talked about life, love, and women as most guys do. We were both close to finishing our bottles when I noticed a tattoo on his arm that said, “Harry.” Who was this Harry? He certainly didn’t strike me as a Royalist, so I knew he didn’t just get the prince’s name on his arm for shits and giggles. I gulped down a few more sips of my drink and slowly placed it back down. I looked him in the eyes and said, “who is Harry?” His response shook every bone in my body to their core. After holding his tears back and ingesting some more of his vodka, Phil looked at me and said that “Harry was his son.” Was? He continued speaking, and I learned that Harry died three days after he was born. That tragic loss would result in a few other loses in his life, his wife, and his faith. Phil told me that he used to go to his grave on his birthday and Christmas, but he couldn’t do it anymore. He didn’t see a point in it any longer. Surprisingly I felt the urge to tell him that “God loved him and that he would see his son again.” I am in no way a prolific believer; I’d probably put myself in the wayward son category. However, something came over me, and I felt like I needed to tell him that. We had both finished our drinks, and as we were saying our goodbyes, he thanked me. I don’t know why, but he did. My encounter with Phil taught me that when you meet someone, you don’t know what they are going through, but through love and compassion, you can have a positive impact on them.Lexie
Lexie is a beautiful and intelligent young lady from Kansas City, Missouri. We met and chatted throughout the week because she was a part of our EF group. One night, after Lexie and I had more than our share of wine, we began to talk about our plans for the future. Before I tell this story, you must know, I have the unfortunate handicap of flirtation when I drink, but she was able to move past my impulsive outburst. I think my accidental comments about her beautiful eyes, stunning smile, and cute laugh allowed her to open up to me. Despite what you are thinking, I like to flirt because I enjoy making women smile, I don’t always do it for self-serving reasons. Anyways, as I said, we started discussing our plans for the future, but one can’t divulge their future in an inebriated state without discussing their past. I gave my whole spiel about wanting to be a prosecutor who would later become a congressman, then a Supreme Court or D.C. Circuit Court justice. She said, “Wow! That’s quite the plan. I want to go into Law as well.” I hastily responded by saying, “That’s sexy. I could see it.” We both laughed, but then she said, “I don’t know though, Law School is hard.” She didn’t strike me as a person who couldn’t handle a challenge, so I asked, “Why do you think you wouldn’t excel? You present yourself as someone who does.” She tried not to blush, then sipped her extremely sweet white wine. I know it was sweet because I made the unfortunate decision of trying it; it was so sweet that even a rock would get a hangover from it. Anyways, she started talking about high school and how people thought she was unintelligent. I laughed and thought about how I experienced that very same thing. I said, “Fuck that, screw them. God, high school girls are mean. Do you actually believe that crap?” She giggled and said, “Of course not, but it’s still in the back of my head.” I grabbed another beer from Raj, the bartender at the hotel. Yes, we were on a first name basis; did you expect anything less from the barstool profit? I sat back down and leaned in, intent on getting this point across to Lexie. I sipped my beer, ever so casually, and said, “Listen, we all remember the immature negatives of our high school existence, but this is now. At some point, we have to grow up into the people we want to be, not who everyone tells us to be.” She then asked, “Why are you so wise?” (You are probably thinking “sure she did,” but I swear that is what she said; I’m not a narcissist using creative license to praise myself.) I accredited it to my amazing parents as well as the shitty ex-girlfriends, situations, and friends I had experienced. We continued talking about a lot of random things like abortion, racism in America, and other pseudo-political topics. It was 3 am. when we finally decided it was time to go to bed. I hugged her and told her to use those negative voices as motivation. Again, I was thanked for the conversation, which, at this point, seems to be a normal thing for strangers to do. My conversation with Lexie made me realize that, when we travel, the baggage we carry isn’t only the physical kind. That tedious and deep emotional baggage also comes along for the journey. Most people, who travel somewhere, will lose a physical part of their baggage, like a sock, shirt, or something of that nature. Lexie did something most could not and do not, she left a piece of her emotional baggage, the night I spoke to her in the bar.Szymon
Szymon was in the bar area when I got to the hotel. He had a very interesting accent, which was far different from the ones I had heard that week, so I asked, “Where are you from?” He said, in a relatively drunken manner, “I am from Poland. You’re from America, aren’t you.” I responded with a firm: “Yes.” The conversation proceeded with small talk, but as I had a few more beers, the topics shifted to more serious topics. I was recently in a Holocaust history class, so of course, the first serious thing I asked was if he had been to Warsaw to see the Concentration Camps. He paused in silence, so I said, “Talk about hell on Earth, the holocaust was some fucked up shit.” After saying that he seemed to gain the courage to tell me that he was Jewish. He told me about the things his parents endured as children and how his grandfather had died in a concentration camp. He told me how he had rejected his faith after hearing these horrible stories. He said to me, “What could faith do for someone. The Jews have been persecuted countless times for it.” I understood where he was coming from, but at the same time, I didn’t. He had real reasons for his existential doubt, and I truly could not say the same. I got a shot of vodka from Raj; threw it back, and said, “Our faith shapes our decisions in life, even if we tell ourselves it doesn’t.” He sat pondering my words, but he seemed bored of the discussions about faith. I quickly changed the subject and asked him, “Why are you in London?” I learned that he travels all over continental Europe cleaning asbestos out of old buildings. I responded as any young person would and said, “that’s cool. I’d love to travel all over Europe.” He said, “it might be for a young single guy, but I hardly see my kids. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if my wife cheated on me.” I couldn’t believe he would say something that personal, but then again, that’s what alcohol does. I suggested that he quit the job and find one closer to home. He laughed and said, “Ugh… you sound like my wife right now.” I bought him another beer and said, “maybe you should listen to her.” He looked at me and said, “maybe you are right ha-ha.” My conversation with Szymon taught me that it doesn’t matter how much money you make or how many places you get to travel on the company’s dime. What matters in life is family and the ones you love. By the time we stopped talking, I could hardly understand him, but he shook my hand and said, “have fun in London.” I laughed and said, “I will, call your wife tonight and tell her you love her.” He smiled and nodded, assuring me he would. It was time to leave, so I packed my things and got ready to go to the airport. I finally boarded my fiery chariot that would bring me back to the heavens. I forced down a few shots of Jack Daniels, closed my eyes, and wondered if the Barstool Prophet would have a second coming. Would I ever return to this amazing city and spout words of wisdom and retardation? Would I ever drink two whole liters of cider and wake up with a black eye? Well, that one is a definite no, but so many questions are left unanswered. Did I actually impact those that I talked to? Did they even remember the conversation? As much as I want to believe I did, I’ll never know. We don’t know what this life holds or what our encounters with strangers will yield; all we can do is give it our best shot and live like we are dying… (Que inspiring music).Let me know if the foundation of this sardonic and surface level literature reference writing has potential… first ever post!
2024.06.02 07:23 _turntables_ 26M - Seeking an Epic New Friend!! [Friendship]
Hey there!
I'm on a quest to find a new friend, maybe even a best friend, to share epic adventures and unforgettable moments with!
I'm absolutely obsessed with all things pop culture. When it comes to gaming, I dive deep into worlds like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, God of War, and The Witcher 3. On the screen, I'm captivated by Game of Thrones, The Boys, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Demon Slayer, and My Hero Academia. And I can't get enough of delving into the fascinating realms of history and true crime.
I've got a dark sense of humor and a big heart. I love making people laugh until they cry and being a rock for those who need it. Plus, I come with a constant stream of memes and reels to keep the good vibes rolling!
Thanks for taking the time to read this! If you're up for an epic chat, let me know! ✌🏻
submitted by _turntables_ to MeetPeople [link] [comments]
I'm on a quest to find a new friend, maybe even a best friend, to share epic adventures and unforgettable moments with!
I'm absolutely obsessed with all things pop culture. When it comes to gaming, I dive deep into worlds like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, God of War, and The Witcher 3. On the screen, I'm captivated by Game of Thrones, The Boys, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Demon Slayer, and My Hero Academia. And I can't get enough of delving into the fascinating realms of history and true crime.
I've got a dark sense of humor and a big heart. I love making people laugh until they cry and being a rock for those who need it. Plus, I come with a constant stream of memes and reels to keep the good vibes rolling!
Thanks for taking the time to read this! If you're up for an epic chat, let me know! ✌🏻
2024.06.02 07:22 _turntables_ 26M - Seeking an Epic New Friend!!
Hey there!
I'm on a quest to find a new friend, maybe even a best friend, to share epic adventures and unforgettable moments with!
I'm absolutely obsessed with all things pop culture. When it comes to gaming, I dive deep into worlds like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, God of War, and The Witcher 3. On the screen, I'm captivated by Game of Thrones, The Boys, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Demon Slayer, and My Hero Academia. And I can't get enough of delving into the fascinating realms of history and true crime.
I've got a dark sense of humor and a big heart. I love making people laugh until they cry and being a rock for those who need it. Plus, I come with a constant stream of memes and reels to keep the good vibes rolling!
Thanks for taking the time to read this! If you're up for an epic chat, let me know! ✌🏻
submitted by _turntables_ to MakeNewFriendsHere [link] [comments]
I'm on a quest to find a new friend, maybe even a best friend, to share epic adventures and unforgettable moments with!
I'm absolutely obsessed with all things pop culture. When it comes to gaming, I dive deep into worlds like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, God of War, and The Witcher 3. On the screen, I'm captivated by Game of Thrones, The Boys, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Demon Slayer, and My Hero Academia. And I can't get enough of delving into the fascinating realms of history and true crime.
I've got a dark sense of humor and a big heart. I love making people laugh until they cry and being a rock for those who need it. Plus, I come with a constant stream of memes and reels to keep the good vibes rolling!
Thanks for taking the time to read this! If you're up for an epic chat, let me know! ✌🏻
2024.06.02 07:11 FennelExpress2383 I’ve really been struggling lately with being able to derive joy from things I usually love
This is cyclical for me. This time it was triggered by a falling out between a few people in a friend group. I had to exert a lot of emotional energy to try to mediate and repair but one party was unable or unwilling to reciprocate. I’ve been pretty socially isolated for a while so it was really devastating for this group of safe people to turn out to be not so safe. This has led to me withdrawing from a lot of other social situations because I’ve just been too anxious and drained to handle it. Which obviously has an adverse effect on my mental health as well. I’m hoping that the relationships I’ve built in the recent months are resilient enough to withstand some withdrawal on my part.
Anyway. It’s hard to get anything done when nothing feels good. Walks, video games, reading, yoga, tea, Diet Coke, writing, hot baths, being in nature… all of those things usually will at least spark some little glimmer of joy (or even just, an at-peace feeling not even joy necessarily) in me but right now it’s like trying to squeeze water out of a rock.
Even my cats cuddling with me feels like nothing :( which just makes me feel guilty and I think me being upset makes them more clingy and then I’m annoyed and guilty for feeling so annoyed at my sweet babies.
Today, the best I felt was when my partner took me on a walk after dark and we saw some bats. Then we went and swung on a swing set at a park. It was nice. Or, as nice as it can be for the state I’m in. I also pulled a heavy pot out of the garage that I want to plant some moon flowers in. I want a moon garden to attract bats and other nighttime pollinators. So, a little victory I guess.
It feels horrible going through the motions of things that should make me feel good and getting nothing. But I’m still making myself stick to a routine because I’m trusting that some hidden part of my brain or body is getting something from it passively and will aid in my healing.
submitted by FennelExpress2383 to CPTSD [link] [comments]
Anyway. It’s hard to get anything done when nothing feels good. Walks, video games, reading, yoga, tea, Diet Coke, writing, hot baths, being in nature… all of those things usually will at least spark some little glimmer of joy (or even just, an at-peace feeling not even joy necessarily) in me but right now it’s like trying to squeeze water out of a rock.
Even my cats cuddling with me feels like nothing :( which just makes me feel guilty and I think me being upset makes them more clingy and then I’m annoyed and guilty for feeling so annoyed at my sweet babies.
Today, the best I felt was when my partner took me on a walk after dark and we saw some bats. Then we went and swung on a swing set at a park. It was nice. Or, as nice as it can be for the state I’m in. I also pulled a heavy pot out of the garage that I want to plant some moon flowers in. I want a moon garden to attract bats and other nighttime pollinators. So, a little victory I guess.
It feels horrible going through the motions of things that should make me feel good and getting nothing. But I’m still making myself stick to a routine because I’m trusting that some hidden part of my brain or body is getting something from it passively and will aid in my healing.
2024.06.02 07:11 apexjaggi A More Constructive Critique of the Drake Talisman Map Theory
TL;DR Don't be rude when theorizing or critiquing people's theories, paragraphs 5-8 have the meat of the stuff I want to say that I haven't seen posted elsewhere so just read those if the whole thing's too long.
I'm sure everyone is tired of reading these posts but this has been sort of gnawing at me all day so I thought I would get it out of my system. I personally find the theory that the dragon depicted in the haligdrake talisman is a map of what the Lands Between may have looked like in the past extremely unconvincing and I'm going to dedicate way too much text to explaining why (no pictures tho cuz i'm lazy).
Earlier today, there was a post that attempted to explain why the theory was unconvincing, but I think OP there didn't do a very good job of responding to people's points, and IMO was also very rude to everyone in the comments. I feel like this may have psychologically made people feel somewhat more prone to defend what I believe is an unconvincing theory, so I'm aiming to do a more thorough and also less obnoxious job of saying why I'm not convinced.
The previous poster stated that the haligdrake talisman could not be depicting a map because it's "just a dragon" and doesn't look anything like TLB. This fails to meaningfully refute the theory in any way because the viewpoint of this theory's supporters is not that the talisman isn't a dragon, but that it is a dragon and a map at once, and that the map is of a past depiction of TLB, a landmass we know has undergone drastic changes over time from mountains of different in-game evidence. Therefore, the theory is stating that one possible past version of the ever-changing lands-between looked like a dragon, and that the talisman is depicting this. If I'm doing a flawed job portraying the theory let me know because I'm trying my best not to strawman here. I want to have an actual good-faith discussion unlike some on this sub.
This is where my issues with the theory crop up. My first issue is that this theory is impossible to disprove. We know that TLB looked different in the past for a variety of reasons (meteorites, blackstone, farum azula, eternal city banishment, etc.) but since the game takes place at a specific point in time and we don't go back in time except to fight placidusax (which doesn't effect our in-game map), we have no examples of what TLB looked like in the past from a cartographic standpoint (except the map in the theory of course). Because the landmass has changed numerous times and we do not know what any of these times looked like, literally anything could be pointed to and called a former map of TLB if it looks even vaguely map-like. So yes, I am admitting that I cannot disprove that TLB could have looked like a dragon in the past because there are an infinite number of things it could have looked like. However, just because it's possible that the map looked like that is not itself evidence that it did. I think this is a perfectly acceptable headcanon, it's admittedly pretty cool, but it's not something that I think makes sense to claim as a fact.
This is where I would expect someone to say that the talisman being a map is the proof that it looked that way, and I think that's a fairly reasonable response. However, this is where my second issue appears, and it's that there is very little to suggest that these talismans represent a map at all other than vaguely looking like one. I can genuinely see why people say it's a map, since it does kind of look like one, and people have pointed out similarities that are interesting, but I don't find this to be compelling evidence. It is very easy to look at two things and find similarities if you are looking for them. Many things I've seen on this sub pointing out similarities completely ignore the stuff that doesn't match and try to account for it with the impossible to disprove statement of "it's in the past and TLB in the past could be anything". This is not really my main point against it being a map, however. My main point is that if the talisman were depicting a map, why does the item description not make any indication that that is the case? The item description for the haligdrake talisman is as follows:
"Talisman depicting a golden ancient dragon. Boosts holy damage negation. The ancient dragons, who ruled in the prehistoric era before the Erdtree, would protect their lord as a wall of living rock. And so it is that the shape of the dragon has become symbolic of all manner of protections."
A couple things to notice here are the complete lack of reference to maps of any kind, the fact that the dragon depiction is specifically symbolic of something other than a map, being protection (obviously something can symbolize more than one thing but I think it would warrant mentioning), and that the dragons protect their lord as "a wall of living rock."
A lot of the basis for the map theory comes from the talisman looking like it has coastlines, and that's understandable. However, in my mind a simpler explanation is that these supposed coastlines are actually depicting the stony, wall-like nature of the dragons that the talisman's description mentions. This would mean that the strangely flat map completely missing any kind of variance in elevation except coastlines is actually a just a stylized depiction of a dragon, meant to more clearly get across its stony nature while still being a different color than the dragons' typical stone-grey (since it's gotta get across the point that it negates holy damage). This applies to all the other elemental versions of the drake talismans as well.
As an aside, the ones besides the haligdrake talisman have elemental effects that pretty significantly obscure the supposed map that Miyazaki wants us to see, which to me seems strange because if it were actually a map you would think it would be clearly visible on all of the drake talismans and not just the one. Additionally, the pearldrake talisman has more smooth "coastlines" that don't make a ton of sense if all these talismans are supposed to be the same map AND if it's a map, why would someone in universe decide to put three of the same map on the +1 and +2 talismans, or even put a map on a talisman in the first place, instead of on paper where a map typically is (I'm sure there are maps on things other than papescreens irl, but it's not typical and i'm mostly spitballing for this part).
These are essentially the reasons why I don't think the drake talismans are depicting a map of TLB during the age of the ancient dragons, but I want to add one more quick thing. If I'm completely wrong (totally possible) and these actually are depicting a map, what does that add to the story? We already know TLB changes physically through the ages as tons of much less obscure evidence in the game tells us. The giant skeletons, the eternal cities, the blackstone civilization, the giant crater in the center of the map, and the apparent missing caelid/mountaintops land bridge already serve to give the player a sense of TLB's vast history and tumultuous state of physical being in a much more tangible and evocative way than a single talisman that vaguely looks like a map ever could. If the devs wanted to add another element to this they certainly could to further expand that feeling, but why do it in such an obscure way that there has to be so much argument about whether the evidence in question even exists in the first place? It is my opinion that any good theory for this game should be able to place itself in the context of one's reading of the game as a whole. If a theory doesn't add anything to the story, what's interesting about it in the first place? This is where I'm most looking for some opposing opinions though, since I genuinely haven't found anything where someone places this in the broader context of the story in a compelling way imo.
Hope I did a decent job of not being rude (sorry if I didn't, I dislike this theory quite a bit and am trying to be nice about it), and hopefully some decent discussion can come from this and not more flame-warring. A lot of arguments against this theory kind of amounted to "you're wrong because i said so" and i thought that was lame and wanted to try and make an argument against it in actual good faith instead of blind rage lol.
submitted by apexjaggi to EldenRingLoreTalk [link] [comments]
I'm sure everyone is tired of reading these posts but this has been sort of gnawing at me all day so I thought I would get it out of my system. I personally find the theory that the dragon depicted in the haligdrake talisman is a map of what the Lands Between may have looked like in the past extremely unconvincing and I'm going to dedicate way too much text to explaining why (no pictures tho cuz i'm lazy).
Earlier today, there was a post that attempted to explain why the theory was unconvincing, but I think OP there didn't do a very good job of responding to people's points, and IMO was also very rude to everyone in the comments. I feel like this may have psychologically made people feel somewhat more prone to defend what I believe is an unconvincing theory, so I'm aiming to do a more thorough and also less obnoxious job of saying why I'm not convinced.
The previous poster stated that the haligdrake talisman could not be depicting a map because it's "just a dragon" and doesn't look anything like TLB. This fails to meaningfully refute the theory in any way because the viewpoint of this theory's supporters is not that the talisman isn't a dragon, but that it is a dragon and a map at once, and that the map is of a past depiction of TLB, a landmass we know has undergone drastic changes over time from mountains of different in-game evidence. Therefore, the theory is stating that one possible past version of the ever-changing lands-between looked like a dragon, and that the talisman is depicting this. If I'm doing a flawed job portraying the theory let me know because I'm trying my best not to strawman here. I want to have an actual good-faith discussion unlike some on this sub.
This is where my issues with the theory crop up. My first issue is that this theory is impossible to disprove. We know that TLB looked different in the past for a variety of reasons (meteorites, blackstone, farum azula, eternal city banishment, etc.) but since the game takes place at a specific point in time and we don't go back in time except to fight placidusax (which doesn't effect our in-game map), we have no examples of what TLB looked like in the past from a cartographic standpoint (except the map in the theory of course). Because the landmass has changed numerous times and we do not know what any of these times looked like, literally anything could be pointed to and called a former map of TLB if it looks even vaguely map-like. So yes, I am admitting that I cannot disprove that TLB could have looked like a dragon in the past because there are an infinite number of things it could have looked like. However, just because it's possible that the map looked like that is not itself evidence that it did. I think this is a perfectly acceptable headcanon, it's admittedly pretty cool, but it's not something that I think makes sense to claim as a fact.
This is where I would expect someone to say that the talisman being a map is the proof that it looked that way, and I think that's a fairly reasonable response. However, this is where my second issue appears, and it's that there is very little to suggest that these talismans represent a map at all other than vaguely looking like one. I can genuinely see why people say it's a map, since it does kind of look like one, and people have pointed out similarities that are interesting, but I don't find this to be compelling evidence. It is very easy to look at two things and find similarities if you are looking for them. Many things I've seen on this sub pointing out similarities completely ignore the stuff that doesn't match and try to account for it with the impossible to disprove statement of "it's in the past and TLB in the past could be anything". This is not really my main point against it being a map, however. My main point is that if the talisman were depicting a map, why does the item description not make any indication that that is the case? The item description for the haligdrake talisman is as follows:
"Talisman depicting a golden ancient dragon. Boosts holy damage negation. The ancient dragons, who ruled in the prehistoric era before the Erdtree, would protect their lord as a wall of living rock. And so it is that the shape of the dragon has become symbolic of all manner of protections."
A couple things to notice here are the complete lack of reference to maps of any kind, the fact that the dragon depiction is specifically symbolic of something other than a map, being protection (obviously something can symbolize more than one thing but I think it would warrant mentioning), and that the dragons protect their lord as "a wall of living rock."
A lot of the basis for the map theory comes from the talisman looking like it has coastlines, and that's understandable. However, in my mind a simpler explanation is that these supposed coastlines are actually depicting the stony, wall-like nature of the dragons that the talisman's description mentions. This would mean that the strangely flat map completely missing any kind of variance in elevation except coastlines is actually a just a stylized depiction of a dragon, meant to more clearly get across its stony nature while still being a different color than the dragons' typical stone-grey (since it's gotta get across the point that it negates holy damage). This applies to all the other elemental versions of the drake talismans as well.
As an aside, the ones besides the haligdrake talisman have elemental effects that pretty significantly obscure the supposed map that Miyazaki wants us to see, which to me seems strange because if it were actually a map you would think it would be clearly visible on all of the drake talismans and not just the one. Additionally, the pearldrake talisman has more smooth "coastlines" that don't make a ton of sense if all these talismans are supposed to be the same map AND if it's a map, why would someone in universe decide to put three of the same map on the +1 and +2 talismans, or even put a map on a talisman in the first place, instead of on paper where a map typically is (I'm sure there are maps on things other than papescreens irl, but it's not typical and i'm mostly spitballing for this part).
These are essentially the reasons why I don't think the drake talismans are depicting a map of TLB during the age of the ancient dragons, but I want to add one more quick thing. If I'm completely wrong (totally possible) and these actually are depicting a map, what does that add to the story? We already know TLB changes physically through the ages as tons of much less obscure evidence in the game tells us. The giant skeletons, the eternal cities, the blackstone civilization, the giant crater in the center of the map, and the apparent missing caelid/mountaintops land bridge already serve to give the player a sense of TLB's vast history and tumultuous state of physical being in a much more tangible and evocative way than a single talisman that vaguely looks like a map ever could. If the devs wanted to add another element to this they certainly could to further expand that feeling, but why do it in such an obscure way that there has to be so much argument about whether the evidence in question even exists in the first place? It is my opinion that any good theory for this game should be able to place itself in the context of one's reading of the game as a whole. If a theory doesn't add anything to the story, what's interesting about it in the first place? This is where I'm most looking for some opposing opinions though, since I genuinely haven't found anything where someone places this in the broader context of the story in a compelling way imo.
Hope I did a decent job of not being rude (sorry if I didn't, I dislike this theory quite a bit and am trying to be nice about it), and hopefully some decent discussion can come from this and not more flame-warring. A lot of arguments against this theory kind of amounted to "you're wrong because i said so" and i thought that was lame and wanted to try and make an argument against it in actual good faith instead of blind rage lol.
2024.06.02 07:09 SpeedyGLT Video musical
Hace poco más de 10 años cuando estaba en secundaria, un profe de inglés nos puso varias canciones en inglés para aprender la letra, y de las 3 (counting stars, everybody's changing) solo me falta 1, solo recuerdo el video musical, al inicio hay una casa, y conforme avanza el video se muestra como la casa se va demoliendo poco a poco, no estoy seguro si con explosivos o con una bola de demolición, eso es todo lo que recuerdo, no era Rock n roll, era algo más pop, pero sigo sin encontrar nada, ni ChatGPT me ha podido ayudar 😭😭, tienen idea de cuál puede ser?
submitted by SpeedyGLT to LostMediaEsp [link] [comments]
2024.06.02 07:07 NoahMeier What usually changes when there's a new season?
I've only had DRG for about a 1,5 months or so(have around 80 hours playtime)and am wondering what changes after every season, since i only played this one. Rock and stone!
submitted by NoahMeier to DeepRockGalactic [link] [comments]
2024.06.02 07:05 thermalaxis Spotted on the menu of a Seattle cocktail bar
 | submitted by thermalaxis to arresteddevelopment [link] [comments] |
2024.06.02 06:55 mansplanar The 11 Best Bumble Prompts and How to Answer Them to Strategically Meet Your Match
Somewhere between 90 and 95% of openers I get are either "hi" or "hey." So literally anything else puts you sonewhere in the top 10%. Even "HEY ASSHOLE! would at least be memorable. So I wouldn't sweat it too much; the bar is set really low.
If you're really insistent, though, it's thd same sort of stuff women want in an opener, just with waaaayyyy less competition. And if you can somehow prove you're not a scammer while you're at it, even better.
The opener I start with is usually something easy to answer and invites a thoughtful response. Such as, "What is your go to karaoke song?" or "What's your favorite thing about living [insert city]"? or "What's your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?"
I usually get the conversation started and then if he doesn't match my energy, I unmatch.
One of my favorite opening lines I got from a guy was “Hi there! Let me know what you think of the following:
A white picket fence house, a couple dogs, some nice cars, maybe a boat for weekend trips to the lake, and we can do that for about 5 years until you get sick of me. After that we divorce, I let you keep everything, and we’ll call it a good time!”
Made me laugh and for being an introvert who struggles immensely with conversation this helped relax me instantly.
The online dating world is vast, with a plethora of apps to choose from. However, according to a study by Statista, one outranks them all when it comes to finding love: Bumble. The app, known for letting women make the first move, has since expanded into a networking platform for building both friendships and professional connections. But if you’re still interested in using Bumble for its original intent, you might be wondering how to go about answering all those Bumble prompts, of which there are over 40 to choose from. Here, we’ve rounded up ten of the best Bumble prompts, plus example answers. So fill out that profile, pick your preferred zodiac sign to date (it’s Pisces, right?) and watch the notifications roll in—before you know it, you’ll be needing a spreadsheet to track all those dates.
How Do You Write a Good Bumble Prompt?
The best way to write a good Bumble prompt response is to be honest, specific and positive, according to experts. If you leave your profile generic (or worse, empty), you’re not giving dates enough information to work with so that they can start a conversation. So, focus on being clear about what you want (without being a negative nelly) and don’t be afraid to throw a little humor in there, too. After all, laugher is proven to help us relax, and when we feel at ease, we’re more comfortable sharing about ourselves and learning about others.
The Best Bumble Prompts and How to Answer Them
What you can say:
Catching a flick (sci-fi or rom-com) followed by dinner at my favorite Italian restaurant in Los Angeles. If the sky is clear, we’d drive up to Griffith Park and have a little La La Land moment.
Picnic in Central Park and then a ride in a rowboat—you’re doing the rowing, of course. We’d top it off with ice cream and maybe a bookstore jaunt.
We’d eat our way through Smorgasburg in Brooklyn and then sit on the pier looking at the Manhattan skyline as the sun sets.
What you can say:
Paris in the springtime. I took a gap year there and love going every April to see the cherry blossoms, and one day I’d love to do a tour through Provence to see the lavender, too.
Rock climbing. I’m at the climbing gym at least twice a week and love going bouldering once a month with my club. If you haven’t seen Free Solo, you’re missing out.
Broadway shows. Every year, my dad and I spend a weekend in NYC marathoning every single musical we can get tickets for. I’ve seen Phantom of the Opera five times and yes, I’m crushed that it’s closing.
What you can say:
Pro: I’m a great baker, so you’ll always have fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies. Con: I’m definitely a planner and being spontaneous can be hard, but I’m working on embracing last-minute adventure.
Pro: I’m on the pulse of the restaurant scene and always have great recs. Con: I can’t stand the MCU. (But I’ll make an occasional concession.)
Pro: I’ll never ask you to TikTok dance with me. Con: I can be slow replying to texts—but I’m working on it!
What you can say:
Great communicator.
You like and are conversational about art, books and travel.
You think living abroad for a few years sounds like an ultimate bucket-list adventure.
What you can say:
Making conversation with strangers and putting them at ease.
Cooking for a crowd.
Somehow always managing to win the Broadway lottery.
What you can say:
Curled in bed with a book—I live for murder mysteries, Jane Austen and fantasy novels.
At a concert; I’m obsessed with alternative rock and country music.
Baking cookies while watching the latest season of The Bachelorette.
You totally trip over nothing on the sidewalk, because I do that at least three times a week.
You haven’t read Pride and Prejudice, as long as you promise to watch the Kiera Knightley version with me.
You have zero sense of direction. Me too.
What you can say:
The way he/she makes eye contact with the people they speak to, making them feel seen and heard.
Remembering important dates—birthdays, anniversaries—and celebrating them.
Prioritizing others’ needs first, while still having healthy boundaries.
What you can say:
I’ll totally stick by you if you’re the wallflower.
I can talk about literally any subject.
My dance moves can’t be beat.
What you can ask your friend to talk about:
Your personality traits that they like.
A favorite memory together.
Five reasons they would date you.
What you can say:
A sense of humor.
Planner extraordinaire.
Thoughtfulness.
submitted by mansplanar to MatchMeBro [link] [comments]
If you're really insistent, though, it's thd same sort of stuff women want in an opener, just with waaaayyyy less competition. And if you can somehow prove you're not a scammer while you're at it, even better.
The opener I start with is usually something easy to answer and invites a thoughtful response. Such as, "What is your go to karaoke song?" or "What's your favorite thing about living [insert city]"? or "What's your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?"
I usually get the conversation started and then if he doesn't match my energy, I unmatch.
One of my favorite opening lines I got from a guy was “Hi there! Let me know what you think of the following:
A white picket fence house, a couple dogs, some nice cars, maybe a boat for weekend trips to the lake, and we can do that for about 5 years until you get sick of me. After that we divorce, I let you keep everything, and we’ll call it a good time!”
Made me laugh and for being an introvert who struggles immensely with conversation this helped relax me instantly.
The online dating world is vast, with a plethora of apps to choose from. However, according to a study by Statista, one outranks them all when it comes to finding love: Bumble. The app, known for letting women make the first move, has since expanded into a networking platform for building both friendships and professional connections. But if you’re still interested in using Bumble for its original intent, you might be wondering how to go about answering all those Bumble prompts, of which there are over 40 to choose from. Here, we’ve rounded up ten of the best Bumble prompts, plus example answers. So fill out that profile, pick your preferred zodiac sign to date (it’s Pisces, right?) and watch the notifications roll in—before you know it, you’ll be needing a spreadsheet to track all those dates.
How Do You Write a Good Bumble Prompt?
The best way to write a good Bumble prompt response is to be honest, specific and positive, according to experts. If you leave your profile generic (or worse, empty), you’re not giving dates enough information to work with so that they can start a conversation. So, focus on being clear about what you want (without being a negative nelly) and don’t be afraid to throw a little humor in there, too. After all, laugher is proven to help us relax, and when we feel at ease, we’re more comfortable sharing about ourselves and learning about others.
The Best Bumble Prompts and How to Answer Them
- Perfect First Date...
What you can say:
Catching a flick (sci-fi or rom-com) followed by dinner at my favorite Italian restaurant in Los Angeles. If the sky is clear, we’d drive up to Griffith Park and have a little La La Land moment.
Picnic in Central Park and then a ride in a rowboat—you’re doing the rowing, of course. We’d top it off with ice cream and maybe a bookstore jaunt.
We’d eat our way through Smorgasburg in Brooklyn and then sit on the pier looking at the Manhattan skyline as the sun sets.
- I Get Way too Excited About...
What you can say:
Paris in the springtime. I took a gap year there and love going every April to see the cherry blossoms, and one day I’d love to do a tour through Provence to see the lavender, too.
Rock climbing. I’m at the climbing gym at least twice a week and love going bouldering once a month with my club. If you haven’t seen Free Solo, you’re missing out.
Broadway shows. Every year, my dad and I spend a weekend in NYC marathoning every single musical we can get tickets for. I’ve seen Phantom of the Opera five times and yes, I’m crushed that it’s closing.
- A Pro and Con of Dating Me...
What you can say:
Pro: I’m a great baker, so you’ll always have fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies. Con: I’m definitely a planner and being spontaneous can be hard, but I’m working on embracing last-minute adventure.
Pro: I’m on the pulse of the restaurant scene and always have great recs. Con: I can’t stand the MCU. (But I’ll make an occasional concession.)
Pro: I’ll never ask you to TikTok dance with me. Con: I can be slow replying to texts—but I’m working on it!
- A Non-Negotiable...
What you can say:
Great communicator.
You like and are conversational about art, books and travel.
You think living abroad for a few years sounds like an ultimate bucket-list adventure.
- My Real-Life Superpower Is...
What you can say:
Making conversation with strangers and putting them at ease.
Cooking for a crowd.
Somehow always managing to win the Broadway lottery.
- After Work You Can Find Me...
What you can say:
Curled in bed with a book—I live for murder mysteries, Jane Austen and fantasy novels.
At a concert; I’m obsessed with alternative rock and country music.
Baking cookies while watching the latest season of The Bachelorette.
- I Promise I Won’t Judge You If...
You totally trip over nothing on the sidewalk, because I do that at least three times a week.
You haven’t read Pride and Prejudice, as long as you promise to watch the Kiera Knightley version with me.
You have zero sense of direction. Me too.
- Favorite Quality in a Person...
What you can say:
The way he/she makes eye contact with the people they speak to, making them feel seen and heard.
Remembering important dates—birthdays, anniversaries—and celebrating them.
Prioritizing others’ needs first, while still having healthy boundaries.
- I’m a Great Plus One Because...
What you can say:
I’ll totally stick by you if you’re the wallflower.
I can talk about literally any subject.
My dance moves can’t be beat.
- A Review from a Friend...
What you can ask your friend to talk about:
Your personality traits that they like.
A favorite memory together.
Five reasons they would date you.
- My Favorite Quality in a Person...
What you can say:
A sense of humor.
Planner extraordinaire.
Thoughtfulness.
2024.06.02 06:51 chocolatecauldrons Part II: The Anthology - An Analysis of Each Track
Thank you guys for all your nice comments on my previous post! Here's my followup post walking through the anthology - I apologize for the delay, but I wanted to sit with this half of the album a bit longer. This analysis will be slightly different: first I’ll go through themes present throughout the anthology, and then walk through each song individually, since it’s not as consecutive of a story as the first album. As with my first analysis, I tend to also stay away from literal details as proof that a song is about a certain subject or muse – to me, it’s easier to understand the album when you think first about what the song’s overarching meaning is, rather than getting caught up in literal details (and I think Taylor often throws these in as red herrings). Moreover, it’s important to note that it’s likely that the literal detail she’s thrown in is one that only she and the muse will understand (i.e. her referencing a lilac skirt in imgonnagetyouback is unlikely to be one we’ve ever seen her wearing in public, so it’s useless to paternity test based on that detail!).
Firstly, the word anthology means a collection of assorted literary works. As a result, I think there are more themes scattered through this album, and it’s meant to be a little harder to parse than the first one. I think this album is what TTPD would have been before it crystallized into a tighter theme – similar to the 3 AM tracks for Midnights, the majority of which were written prior to the standard edition’s tracks.
There are a few themes throughout this album. From a romantic context, to me, this album is primarily about Joe. I’ll walk through why I believe that, but this album feels less muddled to me in terms of its muses, and I think that is in part due to the fact that her self-described mania from the standard edition is not a theme on the anthology. This work also covers her own relationship to celebrity and fame, and how that affects her romantic relationships and her personal life in general. And finally, I think the final theme throughout this collection is the idea of childhood, of formative experiences, and how our author goes about processing events that happen to her.
The Black Dog
What happens when you intimately know someone, when you share every aspect of your life with someone, and then it's over? Six weeks after their breakup, she’s barely holding it together (“I move through the world with the heartbroken”). She even tried to rebound her pain away (“I took the miracle move on drug, the effects were temporary”), and wasn’t able to succeed. Meanwhile, she sees him go to a bar, and she has the sudden realization that he may be able to do what she failed to do – he might be able to move on, with someone new. Reckoning with that realization is horrifying. If he is able to pull it off, what does that mean about the love they shared? When he had told her for years that he was who he was for her, and her alone?
You said I needed a bravе man
Then proceeded to play him
Until I believed it too
And it kills me
How could they go from being so intimate that they shower together, that she’s aware of his every move, to being so distant from each other that she wonders if making her fall in love with him was a hazing? And the cruelest part of it is – she doesn’t want either one of them to be able to move on, and give validity to the fact that they weren’t right for each other, even though she knows they have to. Moreover, she’s already *tried* to move on at this point, and failed – she tried to manufacture a counterfeit version of their intimacy, but what if he’s able to perfectly replicate it? And to really drive in the knife, what if it’s with someone younger than her?
And you jump up, but she's too young to know this song
That was intertwined in the magic fabric of our dreaming
Given that a theme throughout the first album was her feeling like she’d given him so much of her youth, so much of her childbearing years, with nothing to show for it, what does it feel like to know that he can essentially reset time, by being with a younger woman, but she’ll never be able to get that time back?
imgonnagetyouback
We know that her and Joe took a break or two while they were together (see: Hits Different, The Great War, in addition to PR articles). To me, this song is about when you do take that break from your partner, and you’re trying to make a point to them that they’re not going to find anyone better than you (I can tell when somebody still wants me, come clean) – the two of you are too intimately intertwined to find a suitable replacement. You know what to wear, what to say, what to do to bring them back to you:
I, I hear thе whispers in your eyes
I'll make you wanna think twice
You'll find that you were never not mine
This song also has a lot of similarities to So Long, London, which is why I attribute it to Joe. To me, it provides a deeper story to some of the lines she touches on in So Long, London:
I didn't opt in to be your odd man out
I founded the club she's heard great things about
And to some of the lines in Hits Different:
I washed my hands of us at the club
You made a mess of me
I pictured you with other girls in love
Then threw up on the street
//
Bet I could still melt your world
Argumentative, antithetical dream girl
imgonnagetyouback is a story of one-upmanship – of trying to out-jealous your partner, of proving to them that nobody knows them better than you do. And maybe this time when they’re both playing this game, it works:
Push the reset button, we're becomin' something new
Say you got somebody, I'll say I got someone too
Even if it's handcuffed, I'm leavin' here with you
//
We broke all the pieces, but still wanna play the game (Oh)
Told my friends I hate you, but I love you just the same
Pick your poison, babe, I'm poison either way
The spacing to me is a deliberate red herring (the 1975 very famously made a song called fallingforyou), and a way to illustrate that the subject of the song wants space from her – but she’s not going to give it to him. This is another theme that calls back to Joe – in So Long, London, she describes him as constantly pulling away (Pulled him in tighter each time he was driftin' away). Matty didn’t pull away – he was all in for two weeks, until he chose to ghost her, and leave abruptly. There was no slow death, no push and pull to her relationship with Matty – it was a meteoric rise and fall.
The Albatross
This song feels like a sister song to “peace” – she describes what it’s like to love her. It’s a little more twisted, however, as she describes her love for her partner as both a danger, and a rescue from the danger she’s imposing on him by being involved with him:
Wise men once said
"Wild winds are death to the candle"
A rose by any other name is a scandal
Cautions issued, he stood
Shooting the messengers
They tried to warn him about her
She’s described herself as wind and liquor in her relationship with Joe previously, in Mastermind:
I'm the wind in our free-flowing sails
And the liquor in our cocktails
She has empathy for the narrator, but disdain for herself. There’s also acceptance though: she knows that she tried to prevent it, and tried to warn him about the danger she posed. In the end though, he chose this life with her, and he chose the danger – there’s only so much she can protect him from.
The devil that you know
Looks now more like an angel
I'm the life you chose
And all this terrible danger
Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus
This song feels like another sister song to The Black Dog – how does she cope with the idea that her long-time partner might move on? How does she cope with the fact that if she chooses to leave, she also chooses the future in which they both move on? A future in which they don’t know each other? It also touches on her wondering if she should move on with Matty, and how feasible it would be to know someone else instead of her partner:
If you want to tear my world apart
Just say you've always wondered
This song, more than anything else, illustrates that moving on with Matty was nothing but a way to move past Joe – what she really wants, more than anything, is a response greater than indifference from Joe:
As the decade would play us for fools
And you saw my bones out with somebody new
Who seemed like he would've bullied you in school
And you just watched it happen
There’s also the realization that Joe may never love who she is now – who she was at the beginning of their relationship will always be who he prefers:
If you want to break my cold, cold heart
Just say, 'I loved you the way that you were'
She’s trying desperately to find some way to make up for the fact that she had to leave Joe, that there was nothing she could do to stay – she tried changing everything about herself, but still, the need to leave him eventually caught up with her:
I changed into goddesses, villains and fools
Changed plans and lovers and outfits and rules
All to outrun my desertion of you
And you just watched it
And she wonders whether despite his indifference, and the distance between them, she should still stay:
Could it be enough to just float in your orbit
Can we watch our phantoms like watching wild horses
Cooler in theory but not if you force it
To be, it just didn't happen
But now, they are merely ghosts of who they once were – it’s not possible to force the relationship anymore.
How Did It End?
When a long-term relationship ends, you can point to the factors that led to its demise: a difference of opinions on money, on marriage, on children, and so forth. It is easy to determine the “what” and the “why” of an ending. But what is harder to diagnose is how you both became the versions of yourselves that weren’t on the same page, that were unable to discuss these topics, that couldn’t move past these dilemmas. That is much, much harder to pinpoint, and this is the question Taylor asks in this song. She knows what killed them:
We hereby conduct this post-mortem
He was a hot house flower to my outdoorsman
//
We were blind to unforeseen circumstances
We learn the right steps to different dances (ohh)
And fell victim to interlopers' glances
Lost the game of chance, what are the chances?
But what she still doesn't know is how it happened – how did it end? She also finds the empathy from the media and from the public to be false and selfish – they only want to know what happened to feverishly spread the news like wildfire.
Come one, come all
It's happenin' again
The empathetic hunger descends
We'll tell no one
Except all of our friends
We must know
How did it end?
//
Soon they'll go home to their husbands
Smug 'cause they know they can trust him
Then feverishly calling their cousins (ohh)
//
Say it once again with feeling
What the feeding frenzy wants more than anything is gossip, and they don’t care that she is utterly lost – lost as to why this happened, and lost physically and mentally:
Guess who we ran into at the shops?
Walking in circles like she was lost
How does she give an answer to quell the empathetic hunger, when she herself doesn’t understand exactly how it happened?
So High School
In an album that touches so much on feeling like she’s running out of time to have the future that she wants, and running out of youth to give the various men who come into her life, it is interesting and heartwarming that the song about Travis on the anthology is one that describes being with him as regaining her youth:
The brink of a wrinkle in time
Bittersweet sixteen suddenly
Moreover, another detail to note in this song is the difference in how she describes alcohol and drugs – in nearly every other song on TTPD, alcohol is a vice she uses in her moments of despair, and drugs are what her previous partners turn to in their moments of strife (she also describes the influence of drugs on her partners as something she detests – “sinking in stoned oblivion” and “you needed me but you needed drugs more”). With Travis, she’s not imbibing in any substances – instead, his thoughts and jokes are enough for her:
I'll drink what you think, and I'm high
From smoking your jokes all damn night
Travis is giving her back her youth, making sober promises, and the impression that we get is that they’re building this dreamlike reality together – it’s wholesome, all-American, and high-school-inspired, yet still grounded in something tangible, unlike the promise of fate and destiny, which powered her relationship with Joe and her entanglement with Matty.
I Hate It Here
More than anything, I think this song illustrates how Taylor sometimes uses escapism and maladaptive daydreaming to ignore the reality of the situation she’s dealing with. She recognizes that it’s not possible to stay where she is, locked inside this prison of stagnation and boredom:
If comfort is a construct
I don't believe in good luck
Now that I know what's what
She recognizes that this isn’t what she used to be, and that she never intended to choose this life of secrecy, perhaps alluding to all those years she spent “locked inside her house”:
You see I was a debutante in another life but
Now I seem to be scared to go outside
She describes herself as finding hope in the places her mind creates (seemingly alluding to her creation of characters and places for folklore and evermore):
I hate it here so I will go to
secret gardens in my mind
People need a key to get to
The only one is mine
I read about it in a book when I was a precocious child
And her escapism into her past, and imaginings of what could have been:
I hate it here so I will go to
Lunar valleys in my mind
When they found a better planet
Only the gentle survived
I dreamed about it in the dark
The night I felt like I might die
All throughout the song, there’s recognition that she doesn’t want to be here – she doesn’t want to feel as if the only place she can be free is in these imaginary worlds she creates. But there’s also concession – is she perhaps only destined for an eternal consolation prize? For loneliness? For imagined romanticism? For the fantasy of how she imagined her life and her love to be?
I'm lonely but I'm good
I'm bitter but I swear I'm fine
I'll save all my romanticism for my inner life and I'll get lost on
purpose
This place made me feel worthless
Lucid dreams like electricity, the current flies through me,
and in my fantasies I rise above it
And way up there, I actually love it
thanK you aIMee
This song, along with a few others in the latter half of the anthology, discusses the loss of innocence she felt in key moments of her life. This one quite obviously alludes to Kim Kardashian, and their infamous feud. I will make a separate post on this, but I think people describing this song as petty may not remember the depth of the hate aimed at Taylor in 2016. Kim and Kanye organized a revenge porn music video for Famous, and held a museum exhibit so that people could take pictures with the naked dolls. The night the snapchat videos were released, every Kardashian family member descended upon social media to gleefully celebrate the #TaylorSwiftIsOverParty. The amount of hate Taylor got was so unprecedented that Instagram actually built their comment filtration system because of this incident. It really was that bad.
And every baby step Taylor took (for example, even just posting that she had a good 2017 was met with immediate media backlash) was quite literally mocked across the internet. People thought the reputation era was cringey, that she was over, and that she deserved everyone’s ire because she was “proven” to be a liar. She describes this in the song:
Each time that Aimee stomped across my grave
And then she wrote headlines in the local paper
Laughing at each baby step I'd take
And it was always the same searing pain
But the whole time, despite the pain and blood, she was dreaming of the day that she would heal, and dreaming of the day that she would climb her way back to to the mountaintop:
And our town, it looks so small from way up here
//
So I pushed each boulder up that hill
Your words were still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head
What still irks her though, is that this bully who created this entire hate train and organized her downfall will pretend as if it never happened – she will undoubtedly reframe things to make our subject seem overdramatic, petty, and unable to move past the incidents of years ago. Taylor, however, has always been clear about one thing: sometimes, no amount of time can heal you from something that deeply traumatized you.
I Look in People’s Windows
This song to me feels like a sister song to The Black Dog, but a few months after the official end of a relationship. A sub theme that runs through Taylor’s songs about the Joe breakup is the loss of being understood – when you are no longer with a long-term partner, how do you cope with the fact that you move the world knowing everything about this person, but at the same time, not knowing them anymore? Would you peek into their windows just to get a glimpse of what their life looks like now? As anyone who has gone through a breakup knows, the hardest part is often not being privy to the mundane details of that person’s world – their dinner parties, their wine, their friends, and so on.
I look in people's windows
Transfixed by rose golden glows
They have their friends over to drink nice wine
I look in people's windows
In case you're at their table
What if your eyes looked up and met mine
One more time
The Prophecy
The prophecy is devastating. More so than any other song Taylor has ever written, it is full of desperation and longing. All she asks for is to be known, to be understood – to not be perceived as an idea of a woman, or a starlet with no humanity:
Please
I've been on my knees
Change the prophecy
Don't want money
Just someone who wants my company
Let it once be me
Who do I have to speak to
About if they can redo
The prophecy?
It’s striking especially considering how much she laments that leaving Joe means she’s giving up being known – it’s also striking given the fact that in the epilogue poem, she states that neither Joe or Matty ever truly knew her:
He never even scratched the surface
of me.
None of them did.
What she desires beyond fame, beyond notoriety, beyond money, is to be loved and to be known. The song also alludes to her being in therapy, and to finding some sort of consolation that she will find someone to share her life with:
I'm so afraid I sealed my fate
No sign of soulmates
I'm just a paperweight
In shades of greige
Spending my last coin so someone will tell me
It'll be ok
Cassandra
This track is a sister song to thanK you aIMee, and continues exploring the theme of fraught public womanhood we see in Clara Bow and Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me. In this song, Taylor discusses how the validation of women is never publicized in the way that the crucifixion of them is:
When the first stone's thrown, there's screaming
In the streets, there's a raging riot
When it's "Burn the bitch, " they're shrieking
When the truth comes out, it's quiet
Moreover, when women speak up about an issue, they’re often viewed as overdramatic, and unserious. Cassandra, in Greek mythology, was cursed by Apollo to always predict the future accurately, but never be believed. We see this happen every day to women in politics, in the media, and in pop culture:
So, they killed Cassandra first 'cause she feared the worst
And tried to tell the town
So, they set my life in flames, I regret to say
Do you believe me now?
And for Taylor, it’s reminiscent of all the times she’s been the first to speak out about something in the industry – for example, against Scooter Braun and his well-established pattern of bullying, or of the exploitation of artists on streaming services – but never been supported broadly by her peers. They believe her later, but at that point, very few people give her the credit for speaking up in the first place. It’s reminiscent of the Kimye scandal. When the news broke originally, the hatred she received was widespread. But when she was acquitted by the long-form video that leaked, it didn’t receive anywhere near the level of coverage that the original scandal received.
Peter
Peter is another song that touches on both the male muses for this album, and in turn, on the promises various men have given her over her life (we’ll circle back to this in The Manuscript!). It also touches on the theme of waiting that’s seen throughout this album, especially on her songs about Joe – how much time is enough time to give?
Both Matty and Joe were 25 when they met her, and it’s abundantly clear that both men made promises to her: promises of marriage, of children, and of a future. But how long can she wait for these promises to be fulfilled? To Joe, she gives six years of her life and youth, and to Matty, she gives him a chance to prove that he was reformed from the time she knew him last: both men eventually fail. Neither man is ready to give up their childish whims, and she has no choice but to lose hope that either of them ever will.
And you said you'd come and get me but you were 25
And the shelf life of those fantasies has expired
Lost to the lost boys chapter of your life
Forgive me Peter, please know that I tried
To hold onto the days when you were mine
But the woman who sits by the window has turned out the light
Another thing to note is the interesting double meaning of the song title. To peter also means to diminish gradually – much like her faith in both men’s promises.
The Bolter
A lot of the songs Taylor has written about Joe in this album deal with the question of “when is the right time to leave?” When you know that things are stagnant, and you know that you’ve given everything you have to a relationship, you know that you have to leave – but it’s easy to convince yourself if you have a history of “leaving before you get left” that you should ride out this wave, and that this pain might just be temporary.
The Bolter, to me, reflects on Taylor’s history – it seems like she prided herself on being able to see the warning signs, and being able to get out in time.
She's been many places with
Men of many faces
First, they're off to the races
And she's laughing drawin' aces
But, none of it is changin'
That the chariot is waitin'
Hearts are hers for the breakin'
There's an escape in escaping
It’s relevant to TTPD, because likely, she saw not bolting as a sign of growth and maturity. You know that you’ve grown as a person when you don’t abandon ship at the first sign of trouble, but what if there are so many signs of trouble that the truly mature thing to do would be to leave?
Robin
Robin leads into this theme of childhood and innocence that we see further in The Manuscript. The track name is also the name of Aaron Dessner’s child. She ponders how beautiful and sweet it is that we work so hard to protect childhood naivete:
Strings tied to levers,
slowed down clocks tethered,
all this showmanship
To keep it, for you,
In sweetness
And there’s an element of wistfulness to it – don’t we sometimes wish that we could also be protected from the worst the world has to offer?
You have no room in your dreams for regrets
You have no idea
The time will arrive for the cruel and the mean
You'll learn to bounce back just like your trampoline
But now we'll curtail your curiosity
The Manuscript
This song is perhaps the most climactic song on the album. It covers her romantic history up until that point, and starts at the moment she feels everything went awry – and it predates Joe and Matty. Instead, it calls back to the first time she experienced a proper heartbreak, and the first time she lost her childlike innocence in the world – her relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal (a time she described as her transition from childhood to womanhood). She describes how they compared licenses, and how he told her that if they had sex, and it was as good as the conversation was, then they would get married, and have a family. He was the first man to make her these promises:
He said that if the sex was half as good as the conversation was
Soon they'd be pushin' strollers
But soon it was over
He tells her that it’s ok that they have an age gap, because she’s so advanced for her age:
She thought about how he said since she was so wise beyond her years
Everything had been above board
She wasn't sure
While dating him, she desperately wants to be older, and starts emulating his behavior:
In the age of him, she wished she was thirty
And made coffee every morning in a French press
And when it’s over, she regresses, and turns back into a child – unable to sleep alone without the comfort of her mother, and unable to eat anything substantial besides the sugary cereal of her youth:
Afterwards she only ate kids' cereal
And couldn't sleep unless it was in her mother's bed
She forces herself to date boys her own age, to not rely on the maturity of an older man to guide her through adulthood, but she can’t help but feel disappointed in their youth:
Then she dated boys who were her own age
With dart boards on the backs of their doors
Finally, as she creates the All Too Well short film, she recognizes the damage he did to her, and how the consequences of that affair have shaped her life since:
And the years passed
Like scenes of a show
The Professor said to write what you know
Lookin' backwards
Might be the only way to move forward
Then the actors
Were hitting their marks
And the slow dance
Was alight with the sparks
And the tears fell
In synchronicity with the score
And at last
She knew what the agony had been for
Everything calls back to this first man, and these original promises – everything she’s been chasing since is reminiscent of this first scar. And just like how releasing All Too Well transformed and healed her, she hopes that by releasing this additional manuscript into the world, it will heal her again. As she describes in the epilogue poem, she is entering all her thoughts, emotions, and pain into evidence – she now asks the audience to process it with her, and thus conclude this process of healing.
The only thing that's left is the manuscript
One last souvenir from my trip to your shores
Now and then I reread the manuscript
But the story isn't mine anymore
If you read all of this - thank you! I enjoyed writing it, and I'm excited to discuss with you all in the replies :)
submitted by chocolatecauldrons to TaylorSwift [link] [comments]
Firstly, the word anthology means a collection of assorted literary works. As a result, I think there are more themes scattered through this album, and it’s meant to be a little harder to parse than the first one. I think this album is what TTPD would have been before it crystallized into a tighter theme – similar to the 3 AM tracks for Midnights, the majority of which were written prior to the standard edition’s tracks.
There are a few themes throughout this album. From a romantic context, to me, this album is primarily about Joe. I’ll walk through why I believe that, but this album feels less muddled to me in terms of its muses, and I think that is in part due to the fact that her self-described mania from the standard edition is not a theme on the anthology. This work also covers her own relationship to celebrity and fame, and how that affects her romantic relationships and her personal life in general. And finally, I think the final theme throughout this collection is the idea of childhood, of formative experiences, and how our author goes about processing events that happen to her.
The Black Dog
What happens when you intimately know someone, when you share every aspect of your life with someone, and then it's over? Six weeks after their breakup, she’s barely holding it together (“I move through the world with the heartbroken”). She even tried to rebound her pain away (“I took the miracle move on drug, the effects were temporary”), and wasn’t able to succeed. Meanwhile, she sees him go to a bar, and she has the sudden realization that he may be able to do what she failed to do – he might be able to move on, with someone new. Reckoning with that realization is horrifying. If he is able to pull it off, what does that mean about the love they shared? When he had told her for years that he was who he was for her, and her alone?
You said I needed a bravе man
Then proceeded to play him
Until I believed it too
And it kills me
How could they go from being so intimate that they shower together, that she’s aware of his every move, to being so distant from each other that she wonders if making her fall in love with him was a hazing? And the cruelest part of it is – she doesn’t want either one of them to be able to move on, and give validity to the fact that they weren’t right for each other, even though she knows they have to. Moreover, she’s already *tried* to move on at this point, and failed – she tried to manufacture a counterfeit version of their intimacy, but what if he’s able to perfectly replicate it? And to really drive in the knife, what if it’s with someone younger than her?
And you jump up, but she's too young to know this song
That was intertwined in the magic fabric of our dreaming
Given that a theme throughout the first album was her feeling like she’d given him so much of her youth, so much of her childbearing years, with nothing to show for it, what does it feel like to know that he can essentially reset time, by being with a younger woman, but she’ll never be able to get that time back?
imgonnagetyouback
We know that her and Joe took a break or two while they were together (see: Hits Different, The Great War, in addition to PR articles). To me, this song is about when you do take that break from your partner, and you’re trying to make a point to them that they’re not going to find anyone better than you (I can tell when somebody still wants me, come clean) – the two of you are too intimately intertwined to find a suitable replacement. You know what to wear, what to say, what to do to bring them back to you:
I, I hear thе whispers in your eyes
I'll make you wanna think twice
You'll find that you were never not mine
This song also has a lot of similarities to So Long, London, which is why I attribute it to Joe. To me, it provides a deeper story to some of the lines she touches on in So Long, London:
I didn't opt in to be your odd man out
I founded the club she's heard great things about
And to some of the lines in Hits Different:
I washed my hands of us at the club
You made a mess of me
I pictured you with other girls in love
Then threw up on the street
//
Bet I could still melt your world
Argumentative, antithetical dream girl
imgonnagetyouback is a story of one-upmanship – of trying to out-jealous your partner, of proving to them that nobody knows them better than you do. And maybe this time when they’re both playing this game, it works:
Push the reset button, we're becomin' something new
Say you got somebody, I'll say I got someone too
Even if it's handcuffed, I'm leavin' here with you
//
We broke all the pieces, but still wanna play the game (Oh)
Told my friends I hate you, but I love you just the same
Pick your poison, babe, I'm poison either way
The spacing to me is a deliberate red herring (the 1975 very famously made a song called fallingforyou), and a way to illustrate that the subject of the song wants space from her – but she’s not going to give it to him. This is another theme that calls back to Joe – in So Long, London, she describes him as constantly pulling away (Pulled him in tighter each time he was driftin' away). Matty didn’t pull away – he was all in for two weeks, until he chose to ghost her, and leave abruptly. There was no slow death, no push and pull to her relationship with Matty – it was a meteoric rise and fall.
The Albatross
This song feels like a sister song to “peace” – she describes what it’s like to love her. It’s a little more twisted, however, as she describes her love for her partner as both a danger, and a rescue from the danger she’s imposing on him by being involved with him:
Wise men once said
"Wild winds are death to the candle"
A rose by any other name is a scandal
Cautions issued, he stood
Shooting the messengers
They tried to warn him about her
She’s described herself as wind and liquor in her relationship with Joe previously, in Mastermind:
I'm the wind in our free-flowing sails
And the liquor in our cocktails
She has empathy for the narrator, but disdain for herself. There’s also acceptance though: she knows that she tried to prevent it, and tried to warn him about the danger she posed. In the end though, he chose this life with her, and he chose the danger – there’s only so much she can protect him from.
The devil that you know
Looks now more like an angel
I'm the life you chose
And all this terrible danger
Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus
This song feels like another sister song to The Black Dog – how does she cope with the idea that her long-time partner might move on? How does she cope with the fact that if she chooses to leave, she also chooses the future in which they both move on? A future in which they don’t know each other? It also touches on her wondering if she should move on with Matty, and how feasible it would be to know someone else instead of her partner:
If you want to tear my world apart
Just say you've always wondered
This song, more than anything else, illustrates that moving on with Matty was nothing but a way to move past Joe – what she really wants, more than anything, is a response greater than indifference from Joe:
As the decade would play us for fools
And you saw my bones out with somebody new
Who seemed like he would've bullied you in school
And you just watched it happen
There’s also the realization that Joe may never love who she is now – who she was at the beginning of their relationship will always be who he prefers:
If you want to break my cold, cold heart
Just say, 'I loved you the way that you were'
She’s trying desperately to find some way to make up for the fact that she had to leave Joe, that there was nothing she could do to stay – she tried changing everything about herself, but still, the need to leave him eventually caught up with her:
I changed into goddesses, villains and fools
Changed plans and lovers and outfits and rules
All to outrun my desertion of you
And you just watched it
And she wonders whether despite his indifference, and the distance between them, she should still stay:
Could it be enough to just float in your orbit
Can we watch our phantoms like watching wild horses
Cooler in theory but not if you force it
To be, it just didn't happen
But now, they are merely ghosts of who they once were – it’s not possible to force the relationship anymore.
How Did It End?
When a long-term relationship ends, you can point to the factors that led to its demise: a difference of opinions on money, on marriage, on children, and so forth. It is easy to determine the “what” and the “why” of an ending. But what is harder to diagnose is how you both became the versions of yourselves that weren’t on the same page, that were unable to discuss these topics, that couldn’t move past these dilemmas. That is much, much harder to pinpoint, and this is the question Taylor asks in this song. She knows what killed them:
We hereby conduct this post-mortem
He was a hot house flower to my outdoorsman
//
We were blind to unforeseen circumstances
We learn the right steps to different dances (ohh)
And fell victim to interlopers' glances
Lost the game of chance, what are the chances?
But what she still doesn't know is how it happened – how did it end? She also finds the empathy from the media and from the public to be false and selfish – they only want to know what happened to feverishly spread the news like wildfire.
Come one, come all
It's happenin' again
The empathetic hunger descends
We'll tell no one
Except all of our friends
We must know
How did it end?
//
Soon they'll go home to their husbands
Smug 'cause they know they can trust him
Then feverishly calling their cousins (ohh)
//
Say it once again with feeling
What the feeding frenzy wants more than anything is gossip, and they don’t care that she is utterly lost – lost as to why this happened, and lost physically and mentally:
Guess who we ran into at the shops?
Walking in circles like she was lost
How does she give an answer to quell the empathetic hunger, when she herself doesn’t understand exactly how it happened?
So High School
In an album that touches so much on feeling like she’s running out of time to have the future that she wants, and running out of youth to give the various men who come into her life, it is interesting and heartwarming that the song about Travis on the anthology is one that describes being with him as regaining her youth:
The brink of a wrinkle in time
Bittersweet sixteen suddenly
Moreover, another detail to note in this song is the difference in how she describes alcohol and drugs – in nearly every other song on TTPD, alcohol is a vice she uses in her moments of despair, and drugs are what her previous partners turn to in their moments of strife (she also describes the influence of drugs on her partners as something she detests – “sinking in stoned oblivion” and “you needed me but you needed drugs more”). With Travis, she’s not imbibing in any substances – instead, his thoughts and jokes are enough for her:
I'll drink what you think, and I'm high
From smoking your jokes all damn night
Travis is giving her back her youth, making sober promises, and the impression that we get is that they’re building this dreamlike reality together – it’s wholesome, all-American, and high-school-inspired, yet still grounded in something tangible, unlike the promise of fate and destiny, which powered her relationship with Joe and her entanglement with Matty.
I Hate It Here
More than anything, I think this song illustrates how Taylor sometimes uses escapism and maladaptive daydreaming to ignore the reality of the situation she’s dealing with. She recognizes that it’s not possible to stay where she is, locked inside this prison of stagnation and boredom:
If comfort is a construct
I don't believe in good luck
Now that I know what's what
She recognizes that this isn’t what she used to be, and that she never intended to choose this life of secrecy, perhaps alluding to all those years she spent “locked inside her house”:
You see I was a debutante in another life but
Now I seem to be scared to go outside
She describes herself as finding hope in the places her mind creates (seemingly alluding to her creation of characters and places for folklore and evermore):
I hate it here so I will go to
secret gardens in my mind
People need a key to get to
The only one is mine
I read about it in a book when I was a precocious child
And her escapism into her past, and imaginings of what could have been:
I hate it here so I will go to
Lunar valleys in my mind
When they found a better planet
Only the gentle survived
I dreamed about it in the dark
The night I felt like I might die
All throughout the song, there’s recognition that she doesn’t want to be here – she doesn’t want to feel as if the only place she can be free is in these imaginary worlds she creates. But there’s also concession – is she perhaps only destined for an eternal consolation prize? For loneliness? For imagined romanticism? For the fantasy of how she imagined her life and her love to be?
I'm lonely but I'm good
I'm bitter but I swear I'm fine
I'll save all my romanticism for my inner life and I'll get lost on
purpose
This place made me feel worthless
Lucid dreams like electricity, the current flies through me,
and in my fantasies I rise above it
And way up there, I actually love it
thanK you aIMee
This song, along with a few others in the latter half of the anthology, discusses the loss of innocence she felt in key moments of her life. This one quite obviously alludes to Kim Kardashian, and their infamous feud. I will make a separate post on this, but I think people describing this song as petty may not remember the depth of the hate aimed at Taylor in 2016. Kim and Kanye organized a revenge porn music video for Famous, and held a museum exhibit so that people could take pictures with the naked dolls. The night the snapchat videos were released, every Kardashian family member descended upon social media to gleefully celebrate the #TaylorSwiftIsOverParty. The amount of hate Taylor got was so unprecedented that Instagram actually built their comment filtration system because of this incident. It really was that bad.
And every baby step Taylor took (for example, even just posting that she had a good 2017 was met with immediate media backlash) was quite literally mocked across the internet. People thought the reputation era was cringey, that she was over, and that she deserved everyone’s ire because she was “proven” to be a liar. She describes this in the song:
Each time that Aimee stomped across my grave
And then she wrote headlines in the local paper
Laughing at each baby step I'd take
And it was always the same searing pain
But the whole time, despite the pain and blood, she was dreaming of the day that she would heal, and dreaming of the day that she would climb her way back to to the mountaintop:
And our town, it looks so small from way up here
//
So I pushed each boulder up that hill
Your words were still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head
What still irks her though, is that this bully who created this entire hate train and organized her downfall will pretend as if it never happened – she will undoubtedly reframe things to make our subject seem overdramatic, petty, and unable to move past the incidents of years ago. Taylor, however, has always been clear about one thing: sometimes, no amount of time can heal you from something that deeply traumatized you.
I Look in People’s Windows
This song to me feels like a sister song to The Black Dog, but a few months after the official end of a relationship. A sub theme that runs through Taylor’s songs about the Joe breakup is the loss of being understood – when you are no longer with a long-term partner, how do you cope with the fact that you move the world knowing everything about this person, but at the same time, not knowing them anymore? Would you peek into their windows just to get a glimpse of what their life looks like now? As anyone who has gone through a breakup knows, the hardest part is often not being privy to the mundane details of that person’s world – their dinner parties, their wine, their friends, and so on.
I look in people's windows
Transfixed by rose golden glows
They have their friends over to drink nice wine
I look in people's windows
In case you're at their table
What if your eyes looked up and met mine
One more time
The Prophecy
The prophecy is devastating. More so than any other song Taylor has ever written, it is full of desperation and longing. All she asks for is to be known, to be understood – to not be perceived as an idea of a woman, or a starlet with no humanity:
Please
I've been on my knees
Change the prophecy
Don't want money
Just someone who wants my company
Let it once be me
Who do I have to speak to
About if they can redo
The prophecy?
It’s striking especially considering how much she laments that leaving Joe means she’s giving up being known – it’s also striking given the fact that in the epilogue poem, she states that neither Joe or Matty ever truly knew her:
He never even scratched the surface
of me.
None of them did.
What she desires beyond fame, beyond notoriety, beyond money, is to be loved and to be known. The song also alludes to her being in therapy, and to finding some sort of consolation that she will find someone to share her life with:
I'm so afraid I sealed my fate
No sign of soulmates
I'm just a paperweight
In shades of greige
Spending my last coin so someone will tell me
It'll be ok
Cassandra
This track is a sister song to thanK you aIMee, and continues exploring the theme of fraught public womanhood we see in Clara Bow and Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me. In this song, Taylor discusses how the validation of women is never publicized in the way that the crucifixion of them is:
When the first stone's thrown, there's screaming
In the streets, there's a raging riot
When it's "Burn the bitch, " they're shrieking
When the truth comes out, it's quiet
Moreover, when women speak up about an issue, they’re often viewed as overdramatic, and unserious. Cassandra, in Greek mythology, was cursed by Apollo to always predict the future accurately, but never be believed. We see this happen every day to women in politics, in the media, and in pop culture:
So, they killed Cassandra first 'cause she feared the worst
And tried to tell the town
So, they set my life in flames, I regret to say
Do you believe me now?
And for Taylor, it’s reminiscent of all the times she’s been the first to speak out about something in the industry – for example, against Scooter Braun and his well-established pattern of bullying, or of the exploitation of artists on streaming services – but never been supported broadly by her peers. They believe her later, but at that point, very few people give her the credit for speaking up in the first place. It’s reminiscent of the Kimye scandal. When the news broke originally, the hatred she received was widespread. But when she was acquitted by the long-form video that leaked, it didn’t receive anywhere near the level of coverage that the original scandal received.
Peter
Peter is another song that touches on both the male muses for this album, and in turn, on the promises various men have given her over her life (we’ll circle back to this in The Manuscript!). It also touches on the theme of waiting that’s seen throughout this album, especially on her songs about Joe – how much time is enough time to give?
Both Matty and Joe were 25 when they met her, and it’s abundantly clear that both men made promises to her: promises of marriage, of children, and of a future. But how long can she wait for these promises to be fulfilled? To Joe, she gives six years of her life and youth, and to Matty, she gives him a chance to prove that he was reformed from the time she knew him last: both men eventually fail. Neither man is ready to give up their childish whims, and she has no choice but to lose hope that either of them ever will.
And you said you'd come and get me but you were 25
And the shelf life of those fantasies has expired
Lost to the lost boys chapter of your life
Forgive me Peter, please know that I tried
To hold onto the days when you were mine
But the woman who sits by the window has turned out the light
Another thing to note is the interesting double meaning of the song title. To peter also means to diminish gradually – much like her faith in both men’s promises.
The Bolter
A lot of the songs Taylor has written about Joe in this album deal with the question of “when is the right time to leave?” When you know that things are stagnant, and you know that you’ve given everything you have to a relationship, you know that you have to leave – but it’s easy to convince yourself if you have a history of “leaving before you get left” that you should ride out this wave, and that this pain might just be temporary.
The Bolter, to me, reflects on Taylor’s history – it seems like she prided herself on being able to see the warning signs, and being able to get out in time.
She's been many places with
Men of many faces
First, they're off to the races
And she's laughing drawin' aces
But, none of it is changin'
That the chariot is waitin'
Hearts are hers for the breakin'
There's an escape in escaping
It’s relevant to TTPD, because likely, she saw not bolting as a sign of growth and maturity. You know that you’ve grown as a person when you don’t abandon ship at the first sign of trouble, but what if there are so many signs of trouble that the truly mature thing to do would be to leave?
Robin
Robin leads into this theme of childhood and innocence that we see further in The Manuscript. The track name is also the name of Aaron Dessner’s child. She ponders how beautiful and sweet it is that we work so hard to protect childhood naivete:
Strings tied to levers,
slowed down clocks tethered,
all this showmanship
To keep it, for you,
In sweetness
And there’s an element of wistfulness to it – don’t we sometimes wish that we could also be protected from the worst the world has to offer?
You have no room in your dreams for regrets
You have no idea
The time will arrive for the cruel and the mean
You'll learn to bounce back just like your trampoline
But now we'll curtail your curiosity
The Manuscript
This song is perhaps the most climactic song on the album. It covers her romantic history up until that point, and starts at the moment she feels everything went awry – and it predates Joe and Matty. Instead, it calls back to the first time she experienced a proper heartbreak, and the first time she lost her childlike innocence in the world – her relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal (a time she described as her transition from childhood to womanhood). She describes how they compared licenses, and how he told her that if they had sex, and it was as good as the conversation was, then they would get married, and have a family. He was the first man to make her these promises:
He said that if the sex was half as good as the conversation was
Soon they'd be pushin' strollers
But soon it was over
He tells her that it’s ok that they have an age gap, because she’s so advanced for her age:
She thought about how he said since she was so wise beyond her years
Everything had been above board
She wasn't sure
While dating him, she desperately wants to be older, and starts emulating his behavior:
In the age of him, she wished she was thirty
And made coffee every morning in a French press
And when it’s over, she regresses, and turns back into a child – unable to sleep alone without the comfort of her mother, and unable to eat anything substantial besides the sugary cereal of her youth:
Afterwards she only ate kids' cereal
And couldn't sleep unless it was in her mother's bed
She forces herself to date boys her own age, to not rely on the maturity of an older man to guide her through adulthood, but she can’t help but feel disappointed in their youth:
Then she dated boys who were her own age
With dart boards on the backs of their doors
Finally, as she creates the All Too Well short film, she recognizes the damage he did to her, and how the consequences of that affair have shaped her life since:
And the years passed
Like scenes of a show
The Professor said to write what you know
Lookin' backwards
Might be the only way to move forward
Then the actors
Were hitting their marks
And the slow dance
Was alight with the sparks
And the tears fell
In synchronicity with the score
And at last
She knew what the agony had been for
Everything calls back to this first man, and these original promises – everything she’s been chasing since is reminiscent of this first scar. And just like how releasing All Too Well transformed and healed her, she hopes that by releasing this additional manuscript into the world, it will heal her again. As she describes in the epilogue poem, she is entering all her thoughts, emotions, and pain into evidence – she now asks the audience to process it with her, and thus conclude this process of healing.
The only thing that's left is the manuscript
One last souvenir from my trip to your shores
Now and then I reread the manuscript
But the story isn't mine anymore
If you read all of this - thank you! I enjoyed writing it, and I'm excited to discuss with you all in the replies :)
2024.06.02 06:47 CalifaDaze I was today years old when I realized Ventura County gets a shout out in one of the most iconic Rock and Roll songs of all time: The Beach Boys - Surfin' U.S.A.
 | submitted by CalifaDaze to venturacounty [link] [comments] |
2024.06.02 06:46 mansplanar 20 Hinge Prompts to Help You Get a Response
I think “my simple pleasure” is the best prompt. If used right it’s a good way to say things you like. For example mine was- thrift stores, new tattoos, Philly sports and R&B. Really depends how you write it
As a woman, I’d advise men not to use “I won’t shut up about,” as a prompt.
Woman constantly complain about men dominating verbal conversations. Saying you “won’t shut up about…” just reinforces that you might be one of those guys.
I think if you actually have a good travel story, that prompt can work. That is to say, I think that the "tiers" really fluctuate a lot from person to person, and your qualifiers ("this works if you're funny") are kind of proof of that.
For example, I have two pretty good stories about coming face to face with sharks, and one less good story about coming face to face with a shark. I think that the shark thing is just crazy enough that it intrigues most people. But you have to have a genuinely good story for it to work.
Also, someone else said they need to get rid of prompts - I disagree. It's really annoying if you try a new prompt and then can't go back to your old one.
I think “my idea of a good Sunday” is a great prompt bc if guys include it and they say “church,” I’m 95% more likely to like them.
THERE'S AN ART to curating your Hinge profile. If you're looking for quality matches, don't be the guy with a barren profile who sends a mildly-enthused "hey, how's it going" to every potential partner. Hinge offers a feature called prompts: conversation starters that let you show yourself off and spark more substantive conversations—and you should use them to your advantage.
Choosing the right Hinge prompts—and writing good answers those prompts—will help you scan the many fish in the sea to find those most suited for you. It might sound like a daunting task to craft the perfect profile, but at least you're an expert in the subject matter: you.
Best Practices for Crafting Your Hinge Prompts
Having an air of mystery may seem hot in movies, but it's just a waste of time in real life—especially when it comes to dating apps, where determining what's real and what's not is so much more difficult than it is in person. "Being coy may seem like a safer way to interact on apps, but it doesn't yield fruitful results," Engle says. (No one's swiping right on a bio that says "I suck at writing bios.")
So nix those coy answers and get specific when you fill out your Hinge prompts. The more specific you get, the likelier you are to match with people that are similar to you. That means you'll really have to think about yourself and want you want.
Be specific when discussing what you're looking for, too. Vagueness won't help narrow your options. For example, don't just say you're looking for "someone with a lot of personality" (is anyone not looking for someone with a personality?); say you're looking for "someone with a lot of energy, and who enjoys being active and trying new things" (or whatever that personality looks like to you). Be honest, both with yourself and in your profile. Don't say you're "super into the gym" because you want someone with a six-pack, when in reality you haven't been to gym in six months and have no intention of starting again.
Add a variety of prompts to paint a full picture of yourself. If all of your prompts are jokes, that doesn't reveal a ton about you. But, if all your prompts are serious, you might come off as a little intense—and you won't be revealing much about your day-to-day life.
The 20 Best Hinge Prompts to Help You Get You a Response
Here are 20 Hinge prompts to get you off the apps and into real relationships.
I'll pick the topic if you start the conversation...
Starting a conversation isn't easy, and with this prompt, you're meeting them halfway. It creates less of a barrier to entry for the person doing the messaging. Pick a topic you're interested in or care about, and "be as specific as possible," Engle says.
What you can say:
The best bands to come out of the 90's.
The worst holiday traditions.
The best and worst concerts you've seen.
The last time I cried happy tears was...
"Consider the things that really make you YOU," Engle says. Mentioning things you care about "will allow you to engage with like-minded people who share similar likes and interests."
What you can say:
When they showed Jason Kelce ripping his shirt off at Travis's touchdown against the Bills.
At the closing scene of All of Us Strangers.
When I PR'ed my back squat (the boys didn't see).
The one thing I'd love to know about you is...
It's always nice to see someone on a dating app be interested in you, even if they haven't seen you yet. Put that energy out there with this prompt. People might feel more comfortable responding when it's something about them, since they know themselves the best. Find a topic that's important to you, and let your potential match take it from there.
What you can say:
What would you do for a living if money weren't a factor?
What's your go-to coffee shop order?
Were you a Nickelodeon or Disney kid?
Let's make sure we're on the same page about...
The great thing about this prompt is you can make your answer as lighthearted or as serious as you want. If you have something that's a deal-breaker for you (like wanting an open relationship), you can insert that here. It also works if you have something a little less serious that still plays a role in your life (like putting pineapple on pizza) and you want to get that out there.
What you can say:
Not wanting kids.
The ending of Game of Thrones.
The shape of Earth.
This year, I really want to...
This prompt is an excellent way to open up potential first date options, or show how you want to work on yourself in this upcoming year. Want to get more creative, more fit, or try something new? Maybe someone out there wants to do the same—and wants a partner to do it with.
What you can say:
Try a ceramics class.
Drink less.
Find the best burger in town.
I'm looking for...
If you already know what you're looking for, you may as well lay it all out there. That being said, don't nit-pick or be judgmental in your answer. Don't be too vague either, or you won't narrow down your options for people best suited to you.
What you can say:
Someone who will get along with my family.
Someone comfortable with being in an open relationship.
A good time, not a long time.
My simple pleasures...
You're probably looking for someone with similar interests as you (at least, we hope you are). "Prompts serve as conversation starters, so consider your interests, hobbies, and skills and lead with those," Engle says. Odds are someone shares them with you.
What you can say:
The smell of fresh cut grass.
When Debbie from marketing brings in banana bread.
Open sunroofs.
I go crazy for...
Another easy way into talking about the things you like—but make sure it's something you can carry conversation on. "Focus on answers that you can go into detail on," Engle says. "Talk about interests, hobbies, and goals outside of romantic relationships to give potential partners a full picture of the person you are."
What you can say:
Planning my next trip before the one I'm on has even ended.
Barry Keoghan. Obviously.
Reruns of Pimp My Ride.
Everyone gets nervous when it comes to online dating. Confidence is hot, but most of us aren't 100-percent confident all of the time, and that's okay. This shows you're nervous, too, but can hype yourself up when need be.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
This is another way to discuss what's important to you, with a call to action for the other person. You can pull in your hobbies, hopes for the future, or interests—the world is your oyster here. But remember: specifics, specifics, specifics (don't just put down "you like sports").
submitted by mansplanar to MatchMeBro [link] [comments]
As a woman, I’d advise men not to use “I won’t shut up about,” as a prompt.
Woman constantly complain about men dominating verbal conversations. Saying you “won’t shut up about…” just reinforces that you might be one of those guys.
I think if you actually have a good travel story, that prompt can work. That is to say, I think that the "tiers" really fluctuate a lot from person to person, and your qualifiers ("this works if you're funny") are kind of proof of that.
For example, I have two pretty good stories about coming face to face with sharks, and one less good story about coming face to face with a shark. I think that the shark thing is just crazy enough that it intrigues most people. But you have to have a genuinely good story for it to work.
Also, someone else said they need to get rid of prompts - I disagree. It's really annoying if you try a new prompt and then can't go back to your old one.
I think “my idea of a good Sunday” is a great prompt bc if guys include it and they say “church,” I’m 95% more likely to like them.
THERE'S AN ART to curating your Hinge profile. If you're looking for quality matches, don't be the guy with a barren profile who sends a mildly-enthused "hey, how's it going" to every potential partner. Hinge offers a feature called prompts: conversation starters that let you show yourself off and spark more substantive conversations—and you should use them to your advantage.
Choosing the right Hinge prompts—and writing good answers those prompts—will help you scan the many fish in the sea to find those most suited for you. It might sound like a daunting task to craft the perfect profile, but at least you're an expert in the subject matter: you.
Best Practices for Crafting Your Hinge Prompts
Having an air of mystery may seem hot in movies, but it's just a waste of time in real life—especially when it comes to dating apps, where determining what's real and what's not is so much more difficult than it is in person. "Being coy may seem like a safer way to interact on apps, but it doesn't yield fruitful results," Engle says. (No one's swiping right on a bio that says "I suck at writing bios.")
So nix those coy answers and get specific when you fill out your Hinge prompts. The more specific you get, the likelier you are to match with people that are similar to you. That means you'll really have to think about yourself and want you want.
Be specific when discussing what you're looking for, too. Vagueness won't help narrow your options. For example, don't just say you're looking for "someone with a lot of personality" (is anyone not looking for someone with a personality?); say you're looking for "someone with a lot of energy, and who enjoys being active and trying new things" (or whatever that personality looks like to you). Be honest, both with yourself and in your profile. Don't say you're "super into the gym" because you want someone with a six-pack, when in reality you haven't been to gym in six months and have no intention of starting again.
Add a variety of prompts to paint a full picture of yourself. If all of your prompts are jokes, that doesn't reveal a ton about you. But, if all your prompts are serious, you might come off as a little intense—and you won't be revealing much about your day-to-day life.
The 20 Best Hinge Prompts to Help You Get You a Response
Here are 20 Hinge prompts to get you off the apps and into real relationships.
I'll pick the topic if you start the conversation...
Starting a conversation isn't easy, and with this prompt, you're meeting them halfway. It creates less of a barrier to entry for the person doing the messaging. Pick a topic you're interested in or care about, and "be as specific as possible," Engle says.
What you can say:
The best bands to come out of the 90's.
The worst holiday traditions.
The best and worst concerts you've seen.
The last time I cried happy tears was...
"Consider the things that really make you YOU," Engle says. Mentioning things you care about "will allow you to engage with like-minded people who share similar likes and interests."
What you can say:
When they showed Jason Kelce ripping his shirt off at Travis's touchdown against the Bills.
At the closing scene of All of Us Strangers.
When I PR'ed my back squat (the boys didn't see).
The one thing I'd love to know about you is...
It's always nice to see someone on a dating app be interested in you, even if they haven't seen you yet. Put that energy out there with this prompt. People might feel more comfortable responding when it's something about them, since they know themselves the best. Find a topic that's important to you, and let your potential match take it from there.
What you can say:
What would you do for a living if money weren't a factor?
What's your go-to coffee shop order?
Were you a Nickelodeon or Disney kid?
Let's make sure we're on the same page about...
The great thing about this prompt is you can make your answer as lighthearted or as serious as you want. If you have something that's a deal-breaker for you (like wanting an open relationship), you can insert that here. It also works if you have something a little less serious that still plays a role in your life (like putting pineapple on pizza) and you want to get that out there.
What you can say:
Not wanting kids.
The ending of Game of Thrones.
The shape of Earth.
This year, I really want to...
This prompt is an excellent way to open up potential first date options, or show how you want to work on yourself in this upcoming year. Want to get more creative, more fit, or try something new? Maybe someone out there wants to do the same—and wants a partner to do it with.
What you can say:
Try a ceramics class.
Drink less.
Find the best burger in town.
I'm looking for...
If you already know what you're looking for, you may as well lay it all out there. That being said, don't nit-pick or be judgmental in your answer. Don't be too vague either, or you won't narrow down your options for people best suited to you.
What you can say:
Someone who will get along with my family.
Someone comfortable with being in an open relationship.
A good time, not a long time.
My simple pleasures...
You're probably looking for someone with similar interests as you (at least, we hope you are). "Prompts serve as conversation starters, so consider your interests, hobbies, and skills and lead with those," Engle says. Odds are someone shares them with you.
What you can say:
The smell of fresh cut grass.
When Debbie from marketing brings in banana bread.
Open sunroofs.
I go crazy for...
Another easy way into talking about the things you like—but make sure it's something you can carry conversation on. "Focus on answers that you can go into detail on," Engle says. "Talk about interests, hobbies, and goals outside of romantic relationships to give potential partners a full picture of the person you are."
What you can say:
Planning my next trip before the one I'm on has even ended.
Barry Keoghan. Obviously.
Reruns of Pimp My Ride.
You should leave a comment if...
This is another way to discuss what's important to you, with a call to action for the other person. You can pull in your hobbies, hopes for the future, or interests—the world is your oyster here. But remember: specifics, specifics, specifics (don't just put down "you like sports").What you can say:
- You were hoping for a Ravens versus Bills Super Bowl.
- Your Spotify daylist often includes the term "mallgoth."
- You're on the dance floor all night at the club.
A shower thought I recently had...
Balance your prompts by throwing in a lighter option here and there. A shower thought is a great way to show off your humor and how your mind works. Get creative.What you can say:
- Could really use a beer in here.
- Whose Line Is It Anyway needs a reboot.
- Is Punxsutawney Phil doing okay mentally?
Green flags I look for...
Get a little deeper into what you're looking for in your person by hinting at characteristics you want to see in someone. It's better to be open and honest about what you're looking for in a potential partner then have to do the dirty work of talking to a bunch of people only to find out you don't actually see a future with them.What you can say:
- Funny conversation, but can get deep, too.
- Tipping 20 percent, always.
- Emotional support water bottles. Here for the hydration.
We're the same type of weird if...
Have some nuance interests that you want to get out there? Here's your chance.What you can say:
- You're hitting up the Renaissance fair every time it comes to town.
- You're the person everyone wants on their trivia team.
- You enjoy 5Ks on Thanksgiving, too.
Everyone gets nervous when it comes to online dating. Confidence is hot, but most of us aren't 100-percent confident all of the time, and that's okay. This shows you're nervous, too, but can hype yourself up when need be.
What you can say:
- Blaring some hard rap.
- Power posing.
- Hitting the gym.
I feel most supported when...
Dating app prompts aren't all about making the right joke or being overly funny. You'll want to layer in some real prompts, too, to show potential partners you can get deep. This prompt is a great way to do that without getting too vulnerable before you're ready. Plus, it reveals a little bit about what you want out of a relationship.What you can say:
- My partner help around the house.
- There's healthy communication.
- My family and friends support my work.
A fun fact about me is...
An oldie but a goodie. To mix in a lighthearted prompt with some deeper ones, stick with what you know and toss in your go-to fun fact from freshman seminar in college. Don't over think the "fun" part—just pick something you think is unique about yourself!What you can say:
- I've been cage diving with sharks.
- I speak four languages.
- I never lose in Mario Kart. Ever.
Teach me something about...
Want to learn something new and find a partner at the same time? This is also a great way to show an interest in potential partners by making your answer something related to them. Like we said, people are always more comfortable talking about themselves because it's the one thing they know everything about. People love talking about their passions... maybe someone out there has the same one as you. This is a great way to find out.What you can say:
- The Roman Empire
- Your ick list
- What you want to see in a partner
I know the best spot in town for...
Hate the phase of online dating where you message back and forth forever and never actually get to a first date? Us, too. This prompt can help speed up that process by getting you out of the app, and meeting in person. Suggest something you'd want to do for a first date.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
What you can say:
- $5 happy hour Miller Lites.
- VPR watch parties.
- Live music.
First round is on me if...
Another prompt that gets you out of the app and right into the first date. Plus, you can pose a characteristic you really want to see in a partner: a win-win. PSA though: If it translates, you do actually have to pay for the first round.What you can say:
- You love a Dadbod.
- You also cried when My Chemical Romance broke up.
- You're okay with my dog joining us.
My typical Sunday...
This gives a little snippet into your every day life. You're probably looking for someone who lives a similar lifestyle to you (if you're a "sleep until the afternoon every weekend" kind of guy, you're probably not looking for a "6 a.m. half marathon on a Saturday" kind of girl), and this is a great way to give them that insight.What you can say:
- Rearranging all my furniture...again.
- Hitting the snooze button relentlessly.
- A walk with the dogs, football with the guys, and meal prep.
Give me travel tips for...
Have a trip coming up? Hit two birds with one stone: get some travel recommendations and start up a conversation with a potential special someone. It's an easy entry to talking, and you can quickly branch to "well, where else have you traveled to recently?" Even if you just put down your neighborhood—there's nothing like a little stay-cation.You should leave a comment if...This is another way to discuss what's important to you, with a call to action for the other person. You can pull in your hobbies, hopes for the future, or interests—the world is your oyster here. But remember: specifics, specifics, specifics (don't just put down "you like sports").
What you can say:
- You were hoping for a Ravens versus Bills Super Bowl.
- Your Spotify daylist often includes the term "mallgoth."
- You're on the dance floor all night at the club.
A shower thought I recently had...
Balance your prompts by throwing in a lighter option here and there. A shower thought is a great way to show off your humor and how your mind works. Get creative.What you can say:
- Could really use a beer in here.
- Whose Line Is It Anyway needs a reboot.
- Is Punxsutawney Phil doing okay mentally?
Green flags I look for...
Get a little deeper into what you're looking for in your person by hinting at characteristics you want to see in someone. It's better to be open and honest about what you're looking for in a potential partner then have to do the dirty work of talking to a bunch of people only to find out you don't actually see a future with them.What you can say:
- Funny conversation, but can get deep, too.
- Tipping 20 percent, always.
- Emotional support water bottles. Here for the hydration.
We're the same type of weird if...
Have some nuance interests that you want to get out there? Here's your chance.What you can say:
- You're hitting up the Renaissance fair every time it comes to town.
- You're the person everyone wants on their trivia team.
- You enjoy 5Ks on Thanksgiving, too.