I’ve seen John Wick, I had to see Ballerina. Not only that. Watch and rewatch all the movies that came before it, but in the proper storyline order. My only regret is that my week wasn’t freer for it (I was in between trips, meetings, and parties). But maybe next time there is a remarkable marathon to be had, I’ll be fully prepared to fully devote to it.
SPOILER ALERT! Keep reading at your own risk. There are spoilers ahead...
I was so pleasantly surprised by this coming together. Both Evanescence and the John Wick’s franchise have especially stood out to me in terms of being empowering. So, of course, I was immediately drawn back in. Thrilled to see what else it brings.
I’ll never get tired of this type of ambiance and the vibes that come with it. The grungy, graffiti-covered, dimly and neon-lit night streets, with reflective ponds during or after the rain. That ‘underground’ state that is hardcore and badass, where black clothing and combat boots are not missing. I absolutely love it.
The concept of fighting like a girl is interesting to me. It could be quickly dismissed as an appeal to the female audience, but I’d argue that there is more to it. As a millennial who has experienced and witnessed much of what the fight for women’s liberation has been like, I can attest that it comes with countless traps and obstacles to move through and beyond - specific to the gender. So when I hear “fight like a girl”, not only do I hear a typical/former insult being subverted, but also a statement on the persistence and tenacity that it takes to go against all the odds that are stacked against you. It is interesting also because of how it is simultaneously gendered (“like a girl”) and genderless (spoken to any gender).
Furthermore, as someone who has had to deal, over and over, with the pleas of some of the worst scum that you can encounter, I appreciate what the lyrics of the song revolve around. Maybe it wasn’t your reality, but some of us (mostly females) have had the “Just forgive them!” and “Don’t be so cruel!” forced on us at our expense, as if we’re supposed to forever mommy everyone, with the utmost tenderness, even when it is not really our job (never mind fair compensation) and the person in question is refusing to mature and long due for it. “Tonight, you’re the victim of your own crime.” This line, for example, hits hard and speaks volumes if you ponder it further.
Personally, I am profoundly delighted by how Evanescence, with Amy Lee, continues to be active in the scene. Their work is timeless and undeniable. Sneaking in and breaking the mold from the beginning. And still nowadays.
It’s been a while since the last time and it’s now time for more lyrics highlights! These are lyrics that, throughout the years, I was personally enamored with and, for many years more to come, I’ll gently keep within my heart.
Most of them are songs that I, quite recently (the past couple of years), picked up again. But there was one missing to complete the set. So I went further back (about a decade ago?). And Firestone, the one in red, is exactly it, so I've picked it up too. It belongs here more than anywhere else, now that I see them all in hindsight. Back when I used to listen to Firestone a lot (and I did, disproportionally so), I loved it for what it spoke of and wished for something like that to happen to me (I mainly recommend the lyrics video, but the official and the acoustic music videos can also be a trip). Today, I’m just, indescribably, beyond glad that the song exists and can be part of this mix. 😌
Beware, though! If you’ll immerse in it. This compilation is a rollercoaster ride, going slow and fast, with ups and downs, crashing and burning, and somehow left standing regardless. But ultimately, there’s undeniable (and unspeakable) love in, through, and out of all of it. And sometimes, only sometimes, the most unforgettable relationships are just like that.
So here’s to the irremediable romantics. If there’s ever not enough love to go around, we’ll still be the love that’s lacking! 💗
I do believe that Pluralism is very possible. However, as with most things, only to a degree. There are divisions that we can do without and divisions that we require. But like Obama himself pointed out, it isn’t about holding hands and singing Kumbaya.
It isn’t about compromising entirely and losing your own convictions. It’s about building bridges and coming together despite our differences when there’s a common goal to achieve or problem to solve. You can gather around and be civil with others for a specific purpose. You don’t have to view them as your best pal and give yourself wholly to them. Boundaries are as important as certain compromises can be.
There will be people who, if at all, must be treated at a distance and/or with vigilance because they have shown to be harmful or dangerous, and cannot be trusted, or to be left be with minimal to no interaction, as their manner of being has proved to be detrimental to you and yours. But otherwise, for inclusive progress that is broader and greater, gotta work with people who don’t share your exact same principles, values, and beliefs - at least every once in a while, here and there.
For me, I do have the luxury of cutting as many people as I wish to out of my life. I made sure my lifestyle allowed me that. Growing up forced to be in the company of people who were literally driving me to the brink, I swore I’d never go through the same again. But you can bet that sometimes I do put my own desires and preferences aside - when there’s a job to be done and putting myself above that would just be awfully self-centered. Yet, as human beings, we all have our undeniable limits and it’s on us to note what they are so we can respect them and not lose ourselves.
Humans are complex, but also gifted in many ways. Ways that may be more complementary than they are contradicting. And we miss out on that when we let prejudices dictate our every move. Figuring out what rules and norms to set in place for things to run smoothly enough would be The Challenge. And likely an ongoing task...
It’s out! I’d been looking forward to it! And so thrilled that it was basically made to go with Halloween. Playing With Fire, a concept album inspired by Frankenstein.
After wondering for around a year about JC Chasez, whether he’d keep making art or not, he’s finally giving us vital signs! More than that, released a whole album and revealed his plans to further work with it. And I’m eager to see what comes out of this! JC always came across to me as the most intense (and dark) member of NSYNC but, hearing that he’s into this type of story, to such a degree, was a pleasant surprise. Welcome back! You were missed.
I loved listening to this album. I didn’t want to get into it without being in the right head space to fully immerse in it. But as the clock ticked by, I had to dive in regardless. And it turned out to be the escape into another time and place that I needed to get by. As can be expected from JC, the vocals are spectacularly outstanding. But beyond that, the songs feel rich with life as they carry out the story. You can enjoy them on the surface, but it is definitely best to profoundly take it all in and even let it take you on flights of imagination. Picturing more of the world that they depict. There are breathtakingly beautiful pieces in there that feel timeless together with a few that come across as having a combination of both modern and retro styles - I really liked those for it.
For real, my only issue is that I couldn’t listen to the album for the entirety of the month of October. (I will keep listening to it outside of it, though. I’m not done with it!)
Within Temptation has been powerful and empowering on more than one occasion, freeing and fueling the spirit. And that’s part of what first drew me to them. They could really be felt at a soul level. Yet, there are more vulnerable aspects to become aware of and acknowledge that shouldn’t be lacking to grasp a cohesive whole. And this MV brings one of them to attention.
Here, we get GHOSTS. Hopefully, not just as figments of the imagination. Holding on to what is gone or what isn’t quite there, having a bond one would rather not break, honoring promises and carrying on. It is a frightening thought to be left alone by those you care for the most.
After having lost essential people in my life, who were also very special to me, the idea of mingling with the dead is more inviting than off-putting. And certainly taken seriously. So as much as I can joke about everything, I can appreciate the depth and strength that memories carry when it comes to those who cannot accompany us no matter how much we wish they could. And I’m just so grateful for such a hauntingly beautiful portal to all of that.
“I hope there is a way to give me a sign you’re ok. Reminds me again it’s worth it all.” This often happens to me. For loved ones beyond, I hope that, somewhere, they’re okay. And on days when I end up worrying they might not be, I’d wish for a sign (even if there's little or nothing I can do). There are things I still do because of them, regardless of whether or not they still exist (or ever expected me to this degree), because I take what we shared as a legacy and at times I may get discouraged. But rather than being a burden, it is something that pushes me forward. Something I'm better with.
I’d be one to be forever skeptical and demand solid proof before fully believing anything. But I can’t deny that it is a comforting thought to have spirits around that are trying to guide and protect you. I’d also argue that it makes perfect sense to prefer not to let go to waste the contributions of others that got you where you are and their potential to take you even further, more so when they were unspeakably meaningful.
Can you even call yourself a dark girlie if you were never obsessed with Evanescence’s work? Well, I certainly didn’t miss out on that. So many great songs I’d repeatedly listen to and even sing my own personal pain out through. But right now, I’m focusing on this one, which concisely encapsulates a phenomenon that continues to add frustration. Perhaps these days more than ever.
Here, we get WEREWOLVES. Or so it seems. With a pack of wolves neatly on her side, there’s someone who can’t or won’t decide. Only wasting her time. The goddamn audacity and disproportionate entitlement, where does it come from? You do know that time is one of the most valuable things in life, don’t you? I’m betting most of you do, yet you still remorselessly play with it.
This is another MV that nicely suits Halloween. Fairytales, too. But with how dark and intense it is, I can’t help but associate it the most with the former. The settings and the costumes are utterly breathtaking. And the way it all takes place in what looks like the same location, rather than suffocating, turns out enticing. It can transport you and you might be so inclined.
“Don’t lie to me, just get your things. I’ve made up your mind.”
That’s right; I truly cannot think of a better way to deal with somebody who isn’t giving you stability and commitment after you’ve expressed that that’s something you require. Or meeting any other standards you’ve already voiced. It should come from them to get up and walk away if it has become evident that they’re not your match, but many would rather come up with countless excuses, make absolutely no sense, possibly beg, and blatantly lie to keep you around for how you benefit them with no regard for how they could benefit you. And I have zero sympathy for that.
I've heard the objections. “But how can you be so heartless!?! He’s desperately crying and is in pain and suffering!! Maybe he’s not so horrible and just needs more time!” If so… Sir, you are creating and maintaining your own hell and I am not interested in joining you within it. You should take yourself out of the dating scene if you’re not ready to date for what you claim to be. Giving things a real shot isn’t impossible. THEN you can firmly tell whether or not something is for you. It is baffling to me that so many people are fine seeing a significant other as someone to bring into their misery and/or make miserable rather than someone to cherish with devotion and make life better with. You’ve got it wrong; that’s not what being a ride-or-die means.
I can’t count the times I’ve brought up this MV, but I haven’t done so enough already. Swifty or not, Taylor Swift has caught and kept my attention with her free-roaming, ever-evolving, and psychology-savvy art that also happens to be catchy. And this single is no exception. Far from it, it hit the nail on the head in ways I can barely begin to describe.
Here, we get ZOMBIES. A reanimated corpse, digging its way out of its grave and claiming the role of a transformed undead after meeting death by an unkind life - and the craziness around it. The betrayal of a “friend”, a.k.a. the true intentions of a frenemy revealed, having taken advantage of one’s generosity and enacting a smear campaign, both attempting to save face and destroy a reputation.
Besides being so fittingly Halloween-ish, I love what a chaotic mess it is. As though having a bit of everything. The fall, the rise, the dwelling, the plotting, the crash, the crime, the intimidation, the revolution, the support, the past selves, the multiple personalities with the conflict between them all. And more. How she calls herself out, too, and ultimately asks to be removed from the narrative.
“I don’t trust nobody and nobody trusts me. I’ll be the actress starring in your bad dreams.” There are several iconic lines in it. However, this one, in particular, stood out to me. Have you ever been caught up in something like that? Losing everybody’s trust and your own trust in everybody else? It can be even scarier than it sounds and drive you into madness - especially if you started out as somebody full of good intentions who relied on others and could be relied on too. You could be quivering in a corner or you could enter your “villain era” and push through it.
Many people fixated on how it is blaming another for one’s own choices, going “look what you made me do”. But while there are instances in which, yes, indeed, that is something abusers and people who lack accountability do, committing their horrendous acts and shifting the blame, there are, as well, instances in which, no, actually, not quite, they were left with few choices and this instead counts as a reaction to the abuse. And I appreciate how this was brought up along with all else. Sometimes you genuinely wish you could be doing otherwise - and that was the original plan that you were meaning to stick by. But also, it is another slap on the face of who’s wronging you, when they’re facing the repercussions of their actions and it is pointed out that they brought them upon themselves. Like, what were they expecting, really?
Making an entrance, through intricate gates during a misty night, is Britney Spears, daringly putting sexy into the party! Though not necessarily a Halloween event, there are costumes and accessories that can make it feel so. Quite a few bits in the lyrics, too! So it’s still giving moods and vibes. And in case you’ve missed it, Britney Spears absolutely slays as a femme fatale and, while fantastic in many other ways, is also grand when she goes dark!
And I’m totally here for it!
Remember, though. Actions have repercussions so be wise if you’ll be wild. And nothing is sexier than having full and conscious consent before anything else! Britney Spears herself would remind you that.
(Oh, to be Tinashe, dancing next to THE Britney Spears… PRICELESS.)
As you might have noticed, I love music videos. And as you might have also noticed, I love Halloween. This collision brought me to this, to taking 3 or more of my all-time-favorites under a specific theme to bring them up here. And this time, the theme is “Spine-chilling Queens”.
Will this become a Halloween tradition? Wouldn’t bet on that. However, although not the first, it is quite likely another of countless instances to come where I handpick Music Videos, with something in common, that essentially tell a story or are just too impressive to pass up, mainly for the love of them.
In the past, and perhaps again in the future, I’ve brought them all together at once. But in this case, I’d like to bring them up separately, giving each a different night - and moment to take the spotlight. So if you’d like to see which ones ‘make it’ as part of the handful, along with what I may have to add to them, stay tuned for it!
In no particular order, for they’re all significative in their own ways, as Spine-chilling Queens we have...
Honorary Mention: Britney Spears (ft. Tinashe) - Slumber Party MV #1: Taylor Swift - Look What You Made Me Do MV #2: Evanescence - Call Me When You're Sober MV #3: Within Temptation - Memories
As you may have already noticed, I’ve been into Linkin Park since back in the day, when they first broke into the mainstream. Not only were they exceptionally impressive to me as artists, but they also played a major role in my life as I struggled with issues that were, at the time, too confusing and heavy for me. Therefore, it is personal.
I genuinely care about them and their fate as a band. For irrational reasons, maybe, but how could I not? It is in great part thanks to their work that I was able to withstand and get through extremely painful situations, coming to the other side more enlightened.
With Linkin Park, there’s a peculiarity. Other artists I appreciate, I can be like, “Yeah, I get it if you don’t like them. Preferences and all. But I happen to like them plenty.” But if I ever stumbled upon anyone saying Linkin Park wasn’t good (and I didn’t), I would be like, “WHAT?! HAVE YOU NO TASTE?!?” I don’t know, but I’d seriously question what’s wrong with them.
I believe it has to do with what made them stand out to me the most in the first place. At a glance, you might see them as a dark band. And to a degree, they objectively are. But to me, they represent light the most. For it’s as if the direction in which they usually and ultimately go is upwards, toward the light, rather than downwards, toward the dark. Forging virtue as they elevate in consciousness. Maybe they’re aware of it and it was intentional, I don’t know (sorry, guys, I love you but I haven’t heard/read each and every single interview or piece about you out there). However, with Chester and the profoundly unfortunate circumstances he faced, I could take it as a fight to climb out of a hole you didn’t necessarily dig yourself into but ended up in anyway.
Now, as much as I can be concerned about it, I won’t be attempting background checks on the new members. But I do wonder if they’re trying to do something similar with the new vocalist. A character arc. And maybe we’ll learn more about it with the songs in the new album, From Zero. The Emptiness Machine already sounds like it’s depicting the realization that something isn’t what it promised, admitting naivete. So who knows? Obviously, not replacing Chester Bennington or minimizing his story (you can’t even if you tried), but doing more of what they do with a different story.
To illustrate more of what I mean, songs like Points of Authority, Breaking The Habit, and What I’ve Done especially come to mind.
I sincerely wish them the best. You know I root for a meaningful tale where there is significant character development. And if the new members prove not to be a good fit after all and have to leave the band, it is understandable too. I’ll still be a Linkin Park fan.
The Umbrella Academy has been one of my top favorite shows since I first watched it. To the point where, when asked what kind of shows I was into, it’d be the first to pop into my head. I’ve only casually mentioned it before, though, and am only now getting to write about it. For, how could I not? It has come to an end.
Beyond being an outstanding story, written in ways that dizzy my brain but still keep it engaged, it was actually a surprise to me that Gerard Way, from My Chemical Romance (band I grew up listening to), was behind it. But it soon clicked. He does write like that and I love it. It is not exactly my style, mind you, but one I can admire without possessing.
I wish it’d keep going. I can’t get enough of it. The world grew on me. The characters too. But it already gave us 3 seasons and a last, fourth one. So I’m at least satisfied enough and able to let it go.
SPOILER ALERT! Keep reading at your own risk. There are spoilers ahead...
There are so many songs (and music videos) I personally like by Enrique Iglesias. From way back in the 90s to later days. I’m tempted to list them all at once, as I love them so much, but they might offer the perfect guidebook to pretending to be the ideal partner and I don’t want to facilitate that! At least let them go through the trouble of doing their homework. However, this one takes the spot as one I will always enjoy, so I must share it!
Parts of the music video were filmed here, where I was born and still live, in the Dominican Republic. That in itself is enough to excite me! I wish I had been there! If not somewhere in it, then at least seeing it made (but thankfully, there are behind-the-scenes videos of it [English/Spanish]). And I happen to appreciate how it captures different sides of the country, including what makes it distinctively Dominican. Some locals would scoff at having the “lower” places shown internationally, but it’s not a problem to me. There’s a kind of beauty to it that certain people would get. And besides, you’d have to be ignorant to believe that it is all there is to the island.
Furthermore, it is such a compliment, as a song, if you have the traits highlighted and savored (or think you do, haha). But for real, it’s nice to have those intense and “crazy” traits celebrated in a woman. I’m just like, “Yes, romantics! Keep our standards high! Shouldn’t dim ourselves for anyone!” Quite often, I’ve heard that romantic music is bad for people because reality is something else. Well, I think the reality we currently have is bad for people. So… maybe the solution is to have more romanticism, not less.
Beyond all that, though, what truly makes me go out of my mind for it is how, at the same time, it brings up all these different realms to learn about as being into them. Physics, chemistry, anatomy, and then also philosophy and fantasy! Speaking of being taken to other dimensions! I cannot explain to you exactly why this is so significant to me, but it is. And it’s intertwined so well with simpler pleasures, too. Things I’ve never seen as mutually exclusive but had to argue. This is what most makes me want to claim this song.
And don’t get me started on the play of colors and the clash of cultures in those dancing scenes through that wide alley. It meant so much to me!
This song is often playing at the grocery store while I do my regular shopping, and I never get tired of it. More from Enrique often plays around here anywhere. We indeed love him.
At the beginning of March, right after the movie was released, I started coming across clips of it and was intrigued by what else the story would tell. I figured that, maybe, I would watch it, in celebration of spring and fairytales, but my expectations of it were low so I soon forgot about it. However, as clips kept showing up, I eventually caved in and believed I would regret NOT watching it. 'Cause what if it's great? So, I did. And it was! (At least to me.)
Damsel is a Netflix production, a fairytale movie that is not quite a fairytale (unless your concept of fairytales includes the grimmer and darker sort, what's in between, and not just the happily-ever-after kind). And if the story fails to engage you, it'll still indulge your senses with majestic imagery.
If you're into fairytales, especially dragons, and who's been wronged to have their win after all, but tired of Prince Charming and the blind adoration of royalty, this is for you. And you might enjoy it on a fine night when the mood is right.
SPOILER ALERT! Keep reading at your own risk. There are spoilers ahead...
I went into The Tortured Poets Department universe after all! Or at least let a character come alive in one of my imaginings of it. ♪ So all you kids can sneak into my house with all the cobwebs ♪
I can be at peace, at last, having immortalized in photographs some of my favorite clothing items before I lose them or completely wear them out. The stockings were a quick buy and they accidentally ripped as I hastily put them on, but it fits the aesthetic better that way, putting the "tortured" in "tortured poet". And I got new curtains for this shoot, but ended up using old ones as they give more of a "dusty attic" atmosphere. So I can pretend it's one of the secret hang-out places. There are also flowers in my jewelry and in my fabric. I wanted to bring them in as part of spring, without detracting from the gloom of it all, since it's the season when TTPD was released.
And look who's here! I kid you not, this black cat showed up the other night and I wasn't expecting it at all. It roams around here now. ♪ So I leap from the gallows and I levitate down your street. Crash the party like a record scratch as I scream: Who's afraid of little old me? ♪
Lastly, what are you most tortured by or what tortures you the most? For me, it's a few different things, but willful ignorance is definitely among them. My own and others'. ♪ Is it a wonder I broke? ♪
When I first saw the teaser, I worried it would feel void. As a high contrast, black and white, geometrical place. But it was so immensely and profoundly filled with meaning!
There’s been speculation about who this song is about, and I can’t tell either. But regardless, it is a lovely song that I quickly grew to love as I better comprehended it. After a few listens, going back and forth with the lines to read between them and get how they added onto each other or canceled each other out. Like a book of code, it must be grasped holistically rather than partially.
Listening to it alone, I loved it, but with the video, I loved it so much more. It does seem to show more of what it is all about, with the different characters and scenarios, rather than simply being an unrelated video patched to it.
And we know that Taylor Swift is guilty of putting an INSANE amount of attention to detail in her videos so, whenever she is involved in the writing and direction of them, I KNOW there is more than meets the eye and she’s telling more of the story through them.
The covered tattoos that she reveals and match Malone’s, “Stay Away” and “Always Tired” being especially visible. But also letters and symbols that could point to more. If she included them, then it is quite probable that it fits into the story too. Though you might never be fully sure.
The emphasis on the line “I love you, it’s ruining my life” and how it’s coming from both of them, through writing and reading machines. Yet it isn’t explicitly described why and how exactly. You could try to intuit it but, again, might never be fully sure.
I loved how the telephone booth is shown as such a key part of it all, along with how they sing of calling and not picking up. Like they’re right there, near each other, but can’t be reached via it. Speaking of approaches. And the importance of communication.
Things didn’t quite work out, it would seem, but there appears to be genuine love between these two characters. With their embracing, the caring for the other’s wellbeing, and looks that silently say “I love you beyond anything I’ve so far expressed”. Perhaps a doomed love regardless. But that doesn’t necessarily make it small and insignificant.
Where passion of this degree is involved, and one's yearnings are not fulfilled, lines such as “I wanna kill her” and “I wanna kill him” don’t shock me at all. The frustration can be unbearable. She just happens to be honest with herself. And whatever happened in their story that is not made obvious could be further fueling it. What else happened here? You don’t know. Maybe he did fail her terribly, but it might be… complicated. See, guys often don’t give a damn, but sometimes they do. It is unfortunate that it’s not always so easy to tell when which is the case.
Furthermore, I am obsessed with the concept of colors as the manifestation of energy, so of course I was thrilled by the typewriter room scenes that had them emanating. Taylor Swift’s character had mostly orange with subtle tints of yellow and red eventually showing, while Malone’s character had mostly blue with subtle tints of purple and green coming through, as both typed across from each other. They all ultimately join into a white sphere of light. If you aren’t aware of it already, white contains them all. And white is the color TTPD comes in with, often hinting at it. It does make me wonder!
It is phenomenal that she included actors from the Dead Poets Society (and named this The Tortured Poets Department instead, keeping “poets” but switching “dead” for “tortured” and “society” for “department”). Makes me want to rewatch that movie again sometime soon for it’ll likely tell more! And by the way, some of my favorite movie quotes come from there. “We don't read and write poetry because it's cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering, these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for.” So it definitely hits home for me.
I’m unsure of what the ending here means, though. They do get to be together in some manner after all? Is it a cliffhanger? Is there a continuation to this story? I certainly do look forward to more being tied to it!
Bonus: How she looks like a scary doll too? Priceless.
I figured us, tortured poets, were in for a treat when The Tortured Poets Department was announced. But holy goddess, I did not expect this much!
It is a double album, one I’m still not fully done processing. You thought there would be around 15 songs? Nope. There are over 30! It is lengthy. Multidimensional, too. I’ve listened to it. I’ve pondered it. I’ve casually hummed and sang along to it. Swayed and danced. But I’m still far from fully grasping it and all that it contains. And maybe expecting to do so around the release date is unrealistic and not even ideal. The Tortured Poets Department is an entire realm to be transported to and be in for months - perhaps years. It is the work of letting go of what is being carried. And to do that, you must dig into the torture. It’s like roots reaching to hell so that branches can reach to heaven. While simultaneously letting light meet with darkness and vice-versa. This integrative and expansive process takes time.
So I found it suitable and appropriate that it is so mellow. Rather than have a variety of songs wildly varying from each other, all of them retain the same certain moods and give off the same certain vibes while the lyrics and the stories they tell change within what The Tortured Poets Department is fundamentally about. It’s nostalgic, hypnotic, and floaty. As if you are submerging into the sea of your subconscious, where your past is. Or just turning back time and getting light-headed on the trip there. And there’s sadness and anger to deal with regardless.
It can be overwhelming. I wouldn’t recommend rushing through the album. Less so to form opinions, which would be quick but superficial. I would say that this is music to sit or lie down with. Dwell on it some during and afterward. Then let “a-ha” moments come to you. At least when aspiring to thoroughly take it in. You may speculate and attempt to decipher what or who each track is about, as the album covers a wide range of situations and circumstances, but there is significance and meaning in what is expressed regardless.
TTPD is not for the stiff and the shallow who wish to remain as such. It is filled with prompts and stimulants that can shake, bend, and take you out of your comfort zone. Not as abruptly as TS can and has been on other occasions, but still quite candidly. It comes across as having plenty of harsh truths to say but holding one’s tongue - or pen. Sparing some pain and saving you from what you’re not ready for, letting you realize the rest for yourself. If you don’t wish to meet yourself past your illusions or your surface levels, then you might not enjoy paying attention to it.
There have been criticisms about how it all sounds the same. But it doesn’t exactly. This misses the fact that, in such cases, you can tune into a state where you are more perceptive and sensitive to subtle differences, which you will need for nuanced introspection.
There have been criticisms about how Taylor is supposedly trying to be something she is not. But I view it more as tapping into other aspects of herself, her life, and what surrounds her, engaging in other kinds of alchemical transmutations for restoration and growth. Hers and those of whoever resonates with any of it. And it’s not like she has ever been someone to stick to a single style. She is always exploring and experimenting (within reason).
There have been criticisms about being too much. Personally, I don’t get tired. I may get momentarily overwhelmed or even stressed when there is a lot going on, but nobody is forcing me to consume and digest all of it as fast as I possibly can. And when I notice that I’m pressuring myself to, I can just take a deep breath and come back to my senses so that I will see and remember that I should manage myself better. It might indeed be a problem for people with fear of missing out or whose job is to immediately respond, in one way or another, to media. But that’s not the case for everyone.
On the other hand, I’ve been delighted by the positive reactions it has garnered. People relating, joking, and more. Many have welcomed TTPD with open arms or at least an open mind to let it gradually win them over. And as the trendsetter that TS is, I won’t be surprised if for a while brooding is more embraced. Something that should be prescribed in this era of mere appearances.
My only concern is why. Why this colossal stream of pent-up thoughts and emotions? She is pouring her soul out. Sharing what seem to be not only recent but long-ago occurrences. Letting go of it all. So what is next? This cannot be her last album! Gotta at least have a 13th one (imagine what she could do with it)! But if this means she’s taking a long break to recover from everything she’s gone and put herself through lately, have new experiences and make new memories, it is totally understandable and deserved! I’d miss her but I’d wait. As for what is going on right now, I am absolutely into The Tortured Poets Department and anything else that’s coming out of it!
I am sooo going to join into the universe of The Tortured Poets Department! Just you wait.
For now, let me just go on about how much I love how Swifties make events out of releases and more. Dressing up, tidying and decorating, making and/or getting snacks, in accordance with whatever the theme is. I believe and am fully convinced that that is one of the best things you can do for your life - especially since budget isn’t really an issue and you can spend as much or as little on it as you will. Celebrating is an important part of life and without it’d be bleak (take it from me, a post-nihilist who learned it the hard way). So never feel sorry or silly for throwing parties if they make you happy and aren’t harming anyone.
Yet, it doesn’t even end there. Too many people like to assume that there’s no depth to being a Swiftie. But have you met a Swiftie? They. Are. Insane. They can be keen investigators that leave no stone unturned, connecting dots, forming theories, and getting to the bottom of it all. Insatiable. Taking things at face value? NEVER. There must be a hidden meaning somewhere. Double or multiple meanings. And numbers, can’t forget numbers! Following any clue, real or apparent, and Taylor continues to leave them for us. It’s the art of being secretive but not completely private. And we love the intrigue and the fascination that it all brings.
You may be concerned that it is being taken too far, as if it is some sort of cult. But that really depends. It is a hobby that can get obsessive, yes, but everyone is still free and in control of how they spend their time and energy. Some of us are just that intense and are thus pulled to that kind of intensity, but we can manage it and remain sane (enough). As for children and people who cannot quite or yet handle it? Here’s a friendly (though exasperated) reminder that artists are not here to be your sole caregivers and do all the raising that you require. Artists are here to make art. A few are generous enough to guide you through some of it, but they are not obligated to (and it can defeat the purpose of the piece(s)).
Taylor Swift’s artistry is impressive, in my (not humble, not arrogant) opinion. But what got me about her from the beginning and still does is how that doesn’t seem to be her #1 priority. And ironically, she still got where she is. More than anything, she is someone expressive who tells stories that people can relate to, feel validated by, live vicariously through, or rack their brains trying to understand. She’s always been brilliant to me in that regard. So often people expect a pop star, but I keep seeing somebody who is genuinely curious and devoted to their craft - while still making it big. So whenever people accuse her of being less than that, I have to keep myself from pointing out all the genius moves she pulls. Let them underestimate her. That works in her favor too! And amazingly, all of it without losing her humanity. She is a 100% worthy of being the icon that she is.
I didn’t think much of her and her music when I first heard it. It wasn’t what I normally listened to at the time, but I enjoyed it and kept listening to it. Next thing I knew, it was getting me through my dreary, often harsh, existence. And today, as another tortured poet, I can sincerely say that, oddly, it is one of the greatest things that have ever happened to me. I literally cannot tell you just how much exactly, but it’s true.
I was looking forward to this music video since I first heard about it. And in anticipation of it, began worrying I was setting myself up to be disappointed with my high expectations, but I certainly was not! I liked it so much that I could barely handle it. Still can’t say I fully can. Within Temptation is a band I’ve always loved, still do, and probably forever will. And this is not my first time writing about them (though you can’t currently access all of my posts on them). I doubt it’s my last.
I missed their art more than I was aware of. I knew I could always have more, but I did not realize just how much I was craving more of what they do until I finally got it again. The song alone blew me away, but the music video going along with it made me explode - overloaded by how great it is. I needed that in my soul. All of it. If I hadn’t spent so much of my life reflecting on the barely perceivable abstract and intangible things (which, actually, they majorly prompted), I would be so confused and clueless as to why and how could this affect me so. But it is so artfully and masterfully done. And this genre does push the limits to go beyond.
I am obsessed with symbolism and Within Temptation isn’t a stranger to it. I do wonder just how much is there intentionally and what they signify exactly, but the mere fact that many symbols can be spotted and pondered already gets me going. Besides the overall moods that are reflected through light and color, there’s the open field, the shambles, the glow, the birds, the statue. I cannot explain to you what happens to me when I see a sword and a shield like that. Excuse me while I go further into law and justice studies so I can feel at least a fraction of how epic that looks!
And the dancing. Oh, my, God. I have no words, I am speechless. How do I even start to describe what it means to me that it was included? A dance studio isn’t only an escape, but also a sanctuary for those of us who are most ourselves when we dance. This is also why I can appreciate the unconventional beauty of the dancer and the dance here. It is pure and raw expression. Energy flowing out. Maybe in, too.
Yet, couldn’t leave it there, huh? There are what looks like people covered in some sort of black mud. Perhaps made of it as well. And they… rise up. I… I can’t say anything. That’s like imagery out of some bizarre but prophetic vision. And I don’t know if that’s what it is but… DAMN. This moves me down to my core and leaves me shaking, is all I’ll say.
But okay, let me calm down and go into the lyrics… This. This is precisely why I adore songs and songwriting. The condensation of so much in so few words. Still telling a story, still sending a message (or several ones). And coming from Within Temptation, you can expect wisdom. If we were to decompress the lines in these lyrics, there would be essays on abuse and abuse tactics. A topic I would assume, being familiar with their work, that they know and understand quite well. Don’t mess with someone this metal.
All of this is delivered through powerful vocals filled with what I’d call righteous anger, in collaboration with Alex Yarmak. And it could not be more fitting. I’ll defend anger as an essential emotion until I die. When it is not born from overentitlement and more that could manifest as mere temper tantrums, anger is one of the most loving emotions there are. Contradicting as it may sound. It is there to tell you about trespasses and unfair treatment - and protect you and others from that. It is the 'stand up for yourself and for others' emotion and that is how it most came across to me here as it was released. Not misguided at all.
I’m so glad that Within Temptation is still around and active, doing more of the work that they excel at and being formidable people. For me, personally, life is enhanced in groundbreaking and otherworldly levels with what they bring. And I’m infinitely thankful for that.
I've been wanting to write about this song, to bring and keep it here, forever to be cherished, since I first heard it. And it's been a while now, but I finally can. It came out during a heavy moment for me, and even so, I could love it so much...
Justin Timberlake has been the bringer of pleasant surprises for NSYNC fans since last year. And don't get me wrong, I appreciate Justin and his solo works as well (and I can go off about them too). But when you get NSYNC together, it hits on whole other levels. And I'm sooo thankful for it!
I'm not even sure how to describe it exactly, but it does something not only to my brain - but to my spirit, too. NSYNC was the band I hyperfixated on when I was young and yet to become cynical. You wouldn't believe the degree to which I loved this band and everything they did. And it was in such an innocent way, too. They hooked me with a music video of a psych ward, then with their glowing personalities, their impressive performances, and left me with lifelong favorite music and the memory of a fulfilling childhood that was complete with most-listened-to CDs. I knew nothing about the world back then. I didn't even know English and my obsession with them sped up my learning of it (thank you again for that!).
Unfortunately, I moved a lot since then. And quite often, in a rush and leaving possessions behind. So I no longer have any of the NSYNC merchandise I collected. I wish I still did to have proof of my level of craziness, but you'll have to believe me on this one. And maybe that's for the best. Pfft. But in other words, yup, definitely a true fan.
And it's so weird for me now because I disconnected from all of that until recently, when I suddenly saw them together again at the awards. I don't even know how to have this conversation with my child self. Like, how do I even begin to explain to her everything that has happened in between and up to this point, where she gets to live again? She'd be in utter disbelief. Everything from how life went to how much has changed all around. The unbelievable situations we'd find ourselves in. And how nice it all can be after and despite it all.
I don't know for how long NSYNC will continue to show up as a band, but it has already been magical. They indeed took us to a better place.
And this song, Paradise, is so absolutely perfect in so many ways. The melody and the lyrics come across as genuinely inspired and sincerely made with love. And as if that wasn't enough already, the vocals and the harmonizing between them are astoundingly flawless and outstanding. You'd believe angels are singing. I can't imagine a better gift, better wrapped, for those of us who are happy to see them and have them around once more. They really went in on this one and over-delivered.
The far-sighted and holistic view employed through it can make trivial and petty troubles look as small and insignificant as they are, lifting us to a plane where meaning is what is important and it prevails. I don't know about you, but for me, it is a remarkable example of art working wonders. And this one does it by connecting largely distanced points across time and space in a manner that transcends the mundane and arrives at what's considered paradise. It is soothing, relieving, and gently engulfing in the softest and fluffiest clouds. Talk about transmitting vibes and setting moods.
Needless to say, it got a special place in my heart.
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