Meditation, a poem by Noura, 12/13s
When I try to think of nothing theres always something, anything clinging to my brain like the last piece of pasta at the bottom of the pot
Like the infinite building theory or cats dancing, it could be my mom with a mustache or simply just thinking about nothing being something And once I think of something its like an endless rain pouring down on me 13x -2=-26 Pink tutus Yellow and blue= green Flying Sand “What if I said sorry to her?” An endless crowd of voices always saying everything Until I try to think. Then they all go silent The rain stops and a thick fog envelops me With the only words left in my brain being “ I don't know” Excerpt #2 from Pendant
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Welcome back to what I believe to be the ninth month of the Character Cabin! Each month, I write a review and summary of a character. I explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers! I have been busy writing other articles so I haven't written a Character Cabin in a while. This week I will be focusing on Mary Lennox, the protagonist of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
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Mary’s story takes place in 1901. Her story starts when her entire known family dies due to a cholera outbreak. She is forced to move to Misselthwaite Manor, a mansion owned by her uncle, a reclusive hunchback, who she has never met before. She starts out incredibly sour and her emotional disposition has an effect on her appearance. Her skin is incredibly pale, her hair is limp, and she has a constant angry look on her face. However as she spends time at the manor she begins to change. Her growth starts when she meets Ben Weatherstaff, a gardener who works for her uncle. They are similar in their mannerisms and quickly bond. Their friendship looks different than what you might imagine due to their dispositions. They are both rude people, and when they meet are taken aback by each other. Mary begins to realize how she may seem to other people and decides she doesn’t want to seem that way.
Another part of Mary’s character development is her friendship with her cousin Colin. One night Mary hears someone crying and goes to investigate. She meets her cousin Colin, who has been locked away his whole life, out of fear for his death. His father believes he was born with a hunchback, and despite conflicting evidence, he is treated as very sick and fragile. After being waited on his whole life, Colin feels superiority to those around him, and that they should do whatever he wants. Mary’s own disposition is rivaled only by Colin himself. As they spend time together however, Colin becomes more optimistic about his future, and starts to believe that he will live. A huge part of their development is the discovery of the secret garden.
When Mary is first exploring the gardens around Misselthwaite she discovers the secret garden. The garden had been locked away ten years prior, due to the death of her aunt. Despite its neglect, parts of the garden are still alive. Ben Weatherstaff tells her about how the garden used to be full of the most beautiful flowers and other plants. Mary becomes increasingly interested in gardening and decides she is going to return the garden to its former glory. As she spends time in the garden she starts to become happier and healthier. She, alongside her friend Dickon are able to help Colin walk. While the story is not considered fantasy, Mary often talks about the magic of the garden healing Colin.
Another part of Mary’s character development is her friendship with her cousin Colin. One night Mary hears someone crying and goes to investigate. She meets her cousin Colin, who has been locked away his whole life, out of fear for his death. His father believes he was born with a hunchback, and despite conflicting evidence, he is treated as very sick and fragile. After being waited on his whole life, Colin feels superiority to those around him, and that they should do whatever he wants. Mary’s own disposition is rivaled only by Colin himself. As they spend time together however, Colin becomes more optimistic about his future, and starts to believe that he will live. A huge part of their development is the discovery of the secret garden.
When Mary is first exploring the gardens around Misselthwaite she discovers the secret garden. The garden had been locked away ten years prior, due to the death of her aunt. Despite its neglect, parts of the garden are still alive. Ben Weatherstaff tells her about how the garden used to be full of the most beautiful flowers and other plants. Mary becomes increasingly interested in gardening and decides she is going to return the garden to its former glory. As she spends time in the garden she starts to become happier and healthier. She, alongside her friend Dickon are able to help Colin walk. While the story is not considered fantasy, Mary often talks about the magic of the garden healing Colin.
Movie of the Month: Singin' In the Rain
Ruth
This month’s movie is Singin’ in the Rain, starring and directed by the amazing Gene Kelly!
Gene Kelly stars as the famous actor who falls in love, though his fans think he belongs to his co-star, Lina Lamont, played by Jean Hagen. Meanwhile, he goes through a crisis in his acting life. This movie
has become one of the biggest movies in history, and probably Gene Kelly’s best-known movie. This film shines a light on laughter and simple comedy. Be sure to keep a look out for the stunning “Make ‘Em Laugh!” number!
Watch it on HBO Max, Prime Video, or Apple TV!
Poems, various authors
Bank Street Live (or BSL) is back, Finally! Did y’all miss it as much as I did? So since part of a newspaper is writing I thought we should get some poems to share! What do y’all think?
The first poem is…
The Spiral
by anonymous
It stings
The wings on my back are stuck
Comfort isn’t always nice
The way I stick comes with a price
I want freedom
But the safety is nice
I want to breathe the fresh air
My air
My school
My life
But I can’t. I am trapped
My wings are stuck
This spiral is a golden red
The way it works is well read
It goes on and it hurts.
The breaths become sharp
You’re pulled into a wall
The wall is quicksand,
It pulls the spiral into it and doesn’t let go
The spiral is mighty, but not enough
The pain feels like
knives on your back
Because it is
You are forced to live in that moment forever
You want to fix this,
But you can’t
These moments keep coming
The spiral doesn’t want to be left alone,
But it does
What if I were free,
Safe from this broken spiral?
Pulled away?
I wouldn’t have and be cracked
I would be whole
‘cause the spiral is whole
The pain will be vanquished
And leave room for the real spiral. It’s perfect.
What do you think this one is about?
So here is the next one! (By the way, it’s a haiku, a form of poetry that is from japan, and it includes seventeen syllables in total)
Song
by Nora
Notes ring, clear and bright
Through the air, a wondrous
Music to my ears
The next one…
TODAY IS THE DAY:
Shalini
The day has come, I eat a clementine, and then another, but no, today I say that "today is the day". I understand myself now and they need to as well, I can't hold it in anymore, I already tried but it felt like I was hiding a part of myself, it didn't feel good. So today is the day... the day I come out.
What do you all think?
So, this article is over, but if you all have any poems that you want to publish, please send them to me: Shalini M., and I will put them in another article!
The first poem is…
The Spiral
by anonymous
It stings
The wings on my back are stuck
Comfort isn’t always nice
The way I stick comes with a price
I want freedom
But the safety is nice
I want to breathe the fresh air
My air
My school
My life
But I can’t. I am trapped
My wings are stuck
This spiral is a golden red
The way it works is well read
It goes on and it hurts.
The breaths become sharp
You’re pulled into a wall
The wall is quicksand,
It pulls the spiral into it and doesn’t let go
The spiral is mighty, but not enough
The pain feels like
knives on your back
Because it is
You are forced to live in that moment forever
You want to fix this,
But you can’t
These moments keep coming
The spiral doesn’t want to be left alone,
But it does
What if I were free,
Safe from this broken spiral?
Pulled away?
I wouldn’t have and be cracked
I would be whole
‘cause the spiral is whole
The pain will be vanquished
And leave room for the real spiral. It’s perfect.
What do you think this one is about?
So here is the next one! (By the way, it’s a haiku, a form of poetry that is from japan, and it includes seventeen syllables in total)
Song
by Nora
Notes ring, clear and bright
Through the air, a wondrous
Music to my ears
The next one…
TODAY IS THE DAY:
Shalini
The day has come, I eat a clementine, and then another, but no, today I say that "today is the day". I understand myself now and they need to as well, I can't hold it in anymore, I already tried but it felt like I was hiding a part of myself, it didn't feel good. So today is the day... the day I come out.
What do you all think?
So, this article is over, but if you all have any poems that you want to publish, please send them to me: Shalini M., and I will put them in another article!
Beach
Roaring waves
Sculpted by the finest craftsperson
Collapse on the grains of gold
Underneath the cotton clouds
The gleaming brushstrokes of the sky shimmer like an alicorn
Fish in the deep
Trees swaying
Breeze blowing
Cools the scene
The castle of gold stands tall against the water
Treasure Chest
An ocean of sapphire
Grains of gold sand
You could be rich if you wanted
But instead you relax
On the jeweled shore
If I Were A Pirate…
I would sail the ocean all my life
Uncovering treasures
And steering a boat
But I’m not a pirate
So I won’t
Roaring waves
Sculpted by the finest craftsperson
Collapse on the grains of gold
Underneath the cotton clouds
The gleaming brushstrokes of the sky shimmer like an alicorn
Fish in the deep
Trees swaying
Breeze blowing
Cools the scene
The castle of gold stands tall against the water
Treasure Chest
An ocean of sapphire
Grains of gold sand
You could be rich if you wanted
But instead you relax
On the jeweled shore
If I Were A Pirate…
I would sail the ocean all my life
Uncovering treasures
And steering a boat
But I’m not a pirate
So I won’t
Delicious Books
Reading is the best
Delicacy; there are so
many flavors. Yum!
Beauty: A System of Haikus
A sunset over
The Hudson River as I
Drive back to my house
The lapping waves of
The ocean as I relax
On the sandy shore
Lush green plants, a world
Of dense forest and singing,
Twittering birdies
The starry sky at
Nighttime, no clouds obscuring
The beautiful view
Song
Notes ring, clear and bright
Through the air, a wondrous
Music to my ears
Reading is the best
Delicacy; there are so
many flavors. Yum!
Beauty: A System of Haikus
A sunset over
The Hudson River as I
Drive back to my house
The lapping waves of
The ocean as I relax
On the sandy shore
Lush green plants, a world
Of dense forest and singing,
Twittering birdies
The starry sky at
Nighttime, no clouds obscuring
The beautiful view
Song
Notes ring, clear and bright
Through the air, a wondrous
Music to my ears
Book Character Poems: Part 1
Lucy F, 13/14s
Oscore
He’s your classic bad boy,
a cliche of cheesy fiction
an easy prediction.
Leather jacket, black boots
camera in his other hand.
She found him in the church,
may I take your picture? he demands.
English accent rolls out thick
motorcycle - of course
Sophia; get rid of her quick
split an orange into fourths.
You’llObliterateMe.
You
Know
That,
Right?
“Don’t worry, I’m not him:
I won’t bite.”
Mysterious man,
different girls in each hand.
“You could devastate me”
here we go, unplanned.
Photographer, but she’s camera shy
Dark hair, scar through one eye.
His soul lives in a seashell,
his mind is in the sky.
His mother died without him,
while God gave up and sighed.
He’s your classic bad boy,
a cliche of cheesy fiction
an easy prediction.
Leather jacket, black boots
camera in his other hand.
She found him in the church,
may I take your picture? he demands.
English accent rolls out thick
motorcycle - of course
Sophia; get rid of her quick
split an orange into fourths.
You’llObliterateMe.
You
Know
That,
Right?
“Don’t worry, I’m not him:
I won’t bite.”
Mysterious man,
different girls in each hand.
“You could devastate me”
here we go, unplanned.
Photographer, but she’s camera shy
Dark hair, scar through one eye.
His soul lives in a seashell,
his mind is in the sky.
His mother died without him,
while God gave up and sighed.
This week’s book of the week is Scythe by Neal Shusterman. This book is a dystopia in which two teenagers have to compete to be a scythe in a world where humanity has conquered all other ways to die, and the only way to die is by being gleaned (killed), and glean the other if they become one. Unfortunately, neither one wants to be a scythe. This book is going to be adapted into a movie, and is the first in a series. The other books in the series are Thunderhead and The Toll. In the Bank Street Library, this is in the Main Room, in the Children's Collection. There are 2 copies. Please let me know if you have any ideas for future book of the week.
Creative Writing Tips from an Eighth Grader
Micah, 13/14s
Throughout your student years, it’s inevitable you will experience some kind of creative writing prompt. Again, inevitably you will have some kind of a writer's block at least once. These blocks can be frustrating, and cause you to give up on your writing, but there are many ways to avoid these blocks. These are some tips I utilize when I have a lack of inspiration.
First, when creating characters, sometimes I try to think of a picture or piece of art you once saw that captured your attention. Usually, just looking at a picture like this will stimulate words in your mind that can be shaped into a character. So first, try to find an image that will get your brain thinking, and once that train of thought starts, it will lead to even more ideas.
Second, when trying to brainstorm a character, try to think of random words that could be associated with your character. In my opinion, characters in books typically fit into certain stereotypes, or have a very clear vibe. An example of this could be a character who is a bookworm who likes to curl up a chair with hot chocolate and favorite color is yellow. Immediately, just processing these words helps me to imagine a scene, of them reading in a yellow, comfy chair with hot, steaming chocolate for instance, and different aspects of that scene become part of the character. To sum up, think of just one descriptive word, and if that doesn’t lead to more words coming on, try to think of a small collection of words that could make up a character.
Maybe a song evokes some images or feelings, and then you can shape those thoughts into a story. Several songs that I’ve listened to cause me to feel certain recognizable feelings, feelings that I can associate with other things. Maybe a song summons some visuals in your head, and then you can refer back to step one (haha). Try listening to different genres of music, because maybe you’ve fallen into a pattern of listening to the same type of songs, and they don’t have the same effect as they did when you first listened to them. If you listen to a new type of music, different aspects might stick out to more because it’s all new. Try to listen to a song, and then pull whatever comes to your head when listening to it and put it on paper.
Overall, to overcome writer's block, you just need to get your brain going. Once that train of thought gets started, the ideas will flow. Anything that evokes some sort of inspiration, whether it be a song, picture or even someone around you, something that will start a train of thought will result in a story.
First, when creating characters, sometimes I try to think of a picture or piece of art you once saw that captured your attention. Usually, just looking at a picture like this will stimulate words in your mind that can be shaped into a character. So first, try to find an image that will get your brain thinking, and once that train of thought starts, it will lead to even more ideas.
Second, when trying to brainstorm a character, try to think of random words that could be associated with your character. In my opinion, characters in books typically fit into certain stereotypes, or have a very clear vibe. An example of this could be a character who is a bookworm who likes to curl up a chair with hot chocolate and favorite color is yellow. Immediately, just processing these words helps me to imagine a scene, of them reading in a yellow, comfy chair with hot, steaming chocolate for instance, and different aspects of that scene become part of the character. To sum up, think of just one descriptive word, and if that doesn’t lead to more words coming on, try to think of a small collection of words that could make up a character.
Maybe a song evokes some images or feelings, and then you can shape those thoughts into a story. Several songs that I’ve listened to cause me to feel certain recognizable feelings, feelings that I can associate with other things. Maybe a song summons some visuals in your head, and then you can refer back to step one (haha). Try listening to different genres of music, because maybe you’ve fallen into a pattern of listening to the same type of songs, and they don’t have the same effect as they did when you first listened to them. If you listen to a new type of music, different aspects might stick out to more because it’s all new. Try to listen to a song, and then pull whatever comes to your head when listening to it and put it on paper.
Overall, to overcome writer's block, you just need to get your brain going. Once that train of thought gets started, the ideas will flow. Anything that evokes some sort of inspiration, whether it be a song, picture or even someone around you, something that will start a train of thought will result in a story.
September Issue of the Character Cabin: Last Night at the Telegraph Club
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this, know that there will be spoilers! Today we will be taking a look at one of the books I read this summer, The Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo.
The main character of this book is Lily Hu, a seventeen year old girl from Chinatown, San Francisco. The book takes place during the 1950’s red scare of communism. The story follows Lily as she navigates the red scare, and her senior year of high school. Through the course of the story she is forced to reconsider her life, as she begins to question her sexuality.
When Lily starts becoming friends with Kath Miller, everything starts to change. Her and her best friend Shirley start to drift apart, and she becomes sucked into a completely different world of lies and secrets. Kath takes Lily to a place called the Telegraph Club, a lesbian bar, where Lily begins to wonder if she could have feelings for a woman, and more importantly if that woman could be Kath.
One reason I love Lily's character is because although she is faced with many challenges she always keeps a level head and is forgiving of others. She goes through a lot of development as a character, learning that just because something is commonly accepted doesn’t mean it’s right. She also learns that she doesn’t have to conform to the standards that others have of her and starts to become her own person.
The main character of this book is Lily Hu, a seventeen year old girl from Chinatown, San Francisco. The book takes place during the 1950’s red scare of communism. The story follows Lily as she navigates the red scare, and her senior year of high school. Through the course of the story she is forced to reconsider her life, as she begins to question her sexuality.
When Lily starts becoming friends with Kath Miller, everything starts to change. Her and her best friend Shirley start to drift apart, and she becomes sucked into a completely different world of lies and secrets. Kath takes Lily to a place called the Telegraph Club, a lesbian bar, where Lily begins to wonder if she could have feelings for a woman, and more importantly if that woman could be Kath.
One reason I love Lily's character is because although she is faced with many challenges she always keeps a level head and is forgiving of others. She goes through a lot of development as a character, learning that just because something is commonly accepted doesn’t mean it’s right. She also learns that she doesn’t have to conform to the standards that others have of her and starts to become her own person.
Character Cabin: These Witches Won’t Burn, May 2021, Katharine 11/12s
Welcome back to month six of the Character Cabin! Each month, I will write a review and summary of a character. I will then explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers!
This week I will be taking a look at a book called These Witches Won’t Burn by Isabel Sterling. This book came out in 2019 and was and still is a must-read. The book centers around a witch named Hannah Walsh (picture above). Hannah can control the elements, but no one outside of her coven knows this. When Hannah starts to believe out there is a blood witch, someone with the ability to control blood, in town, people in her coven think she is just paranoid as no signs are pointing to one. she is forced to team up with Veronica and stop the blood witch before they hurt her coven.
Hannah is a very well-rounded character; she is intelligent and introverted but also a bit spiteful of the Regs (non-magic users) in Salem for attempting to use magic. She is friends with Gemma (last name unknown) and Benton Hall. Near the beginning of the story, Hannah meets Morgan, supposedly a Regg, for whom she begins to develop romantic feelings. These characters all play huge parts in her development as a character.
Throughout the story, Hannahs’s character progresses from introverted and fearful, to strong, brave, and resourceful. This is in part due to the many emotional conflicts that she faces throughout the story. From the beginning of the story, Hannah is thrown into emotional turmoil, as she asks herself the question. What is the cost she’s willing to pay to keep her magic a secret?
This week I will be taking a look at a book called These Witches Won’t Burn by Isabel Sterling. This book came out in 2019 and was and still is a must-read. The book centers around a witch named Hannah Walsh (picture above). Hannah can control the elements, but no one outside of her coven knows this. When Hannah starts to believe out there is a blood witch, someone with the ability to control blood, in town, people in her coven think she is just paranoid as no signs are pointing to one. she is forced to team up with Veronica and stop the blood witch before they hurt her coven.
Hannah is a very well-rounded character; she is intelligent and introverted but also a bit spiteful of the Regs (non-magic users) in Salem for attempting to use magic. She is friends with Gemma (last name unknown) and Benton Hall. Near the beginning of the story, Hannah meets Morgan, supposedly a Regg, for whom she begins to develop romantic feelings. These characters all play huge parts in her development as a character.
Throughout the story, Hannahs’s character progresses from introverted and fearful, to strong, brave, and resourceful. This is in part due to the many emotional conflicts that she faces throughout the story. From the beginning of the story, Hannah is thrown into emotional turmoil, as she asks herself the question. What is the cost she’s willing to pay to keep her magic a secret?
To a Female President, Julian 13/14s
Oh female president. It didn’t work this year, 4 years ago, or even 12 years ago.
Why does it never seem to work?!
Let’s break this down:
In ‘16, Hil gave us belief
But then The Donald took it away
We had to cope and wait until ‘20
That’s when we hoped things would go our way
6 female candidates,
That’s not what we expected
This was great,
Maybe this year a female could be elected
The candidates were
Kirsten, Kamala, Marianne, Amy, Tulsi and Warren,
We were getting more hope
This year a win might not be so foreign
All the other men came
And began to take the women’s places
They began to drop out
Which gave us sad looks on our faces
We were in to 2020
Only three were still there
Tulsi, Warren and Amy
This was gonna need some repair
There was nothing we could do
Drop-outs kept coming
Now only one is left
It became very shortcoming
Here we are, Tulsi’s still in play,
But for her to win, there is no way.
Let’s not lose hope
There 2024
Women should win that thing
Like they’ve never done before!
Why does it never seem to work?!
Let’s break this down:
In ‘16, Hil gave us belief
But then The Donald took it away
We had to cope and wait until ‘20
That’s when we hoped things would go our way
6 female candidates,
That’s not what we expected
This was great,
Maybe this year a female could be elected
The candidates were
Kirsten, Kamala, Marianne, Amy, Tulsi and Warren,
We were getting more hope
This year a win might not be so foreign
All the other men came
And began to take the women’s places
They began to drop out
Which gave us sad looks on our faces
We were in to 2020
Only three were still there
Tulsi, Warren and Amy
This was gonna need some repair
There was nothing we could do
Drop-outs kept coming
Now only one is left
It became very shortcoming
Here we are, Tulsi’s still in play,
But for her to win, there is no way.
Let’s not lose hope
There 2024
Women should win that thing
Like they’ve never done before!
The Difference Between A Utopia and A Dystopia, Liam 11/12s
A utopia is a community where everything is in balance and where everyone lives in harmony. There’s no fighting, inequality, or oppression. Everything is in perfect order.
A dystopia is the complete opposite. A dystopia is often pictured as a false utopia, a fake Heaven. It manipulates others to see it as the ideal model for a good society. There is anarchy in the streets, and the ground is littered with the dead. That’s a dystopia.
There is a particular item that people frequently stuff these two ideas into. It’s called…a book. These two themes are often used for bases for books. In this school, those of you in 10/11’s and lower look forward to writing their very own book. Those in 12/13’s and up, you know what I’m talking about. I have an optional challenge for my readers; write a 1-2 page utopian or dystopian short story and email it to [email protected]. I’ll be looking forward to seeing these with my all-seeing eye
A dystopia is the complete opposite. A dystopia is often pictured as a false utopia, a fake Heaven. It manipulates others to see it as the ideal model for a good society. There is anarchy in the streets, and the ground is littered with the dead. That’s a dystopia.
There is a particular item that people frequently stuff these two ideas into. It’s called…a book. These two themes are often used for bases for books. In this school, those of you in 10/11’s and lower look forward to writing their very own book. Those in 12/13’s and up, you know what I’m talking about. I have an optional challenge for my readers; write a 1-2 page utopian or dystopian short story and email it to [email protected]. I’ll be looking forward to seeing these with my all-seeing eye
Dear Evan Hansen Review
JP, Zeba & Charles
Every year, the 8th grade goes to see a musical. This year, the 8th graders were excited to hear that they would be attending Dear Evan Hansen. In addition, afterward, we had a special experience meeting the music director and drummer whom we recently heard. We loved this Tony Award-Winning Musical and had some strong opinions.
Zeba’s opinions:
Set - The set was a crucial component to the play, and it truly livened the performance. The surrounding screens added an exceptionally innovative layer to the formulaic system of Broadway Musicals. Having the musicians intertwined with the rest of the performance was an odd yet surprisingly enjoyable choice. - (10/10)
Music - The music was pleasant, and having the musicians visibly on the stage was a creative addition, but it still just felt like usual Broadway music. - (8/10)
Plot - The plot felt too outlandish for me to enjoy. I just couldn’t fully believe that Evan would go to such lengths in his lie, and it aggravated me for the entirety of the play. - (5/10)
Favorite scene - The scenes where Evan and his mom had heartfelt conversations were emotionally touching and the most gratifying to me. Those sincere and meaningful moments were what I had anticipated when coming into the play, and I wished there were more of them.
I found that Dear Evan Hansen’s ending was unsatisfactory and that the play as a whole was overrated. I felt that the mental illness aspect could have been further examined and would have made for a more heartfelt and compelling storyline. Dear Evan Hansen might have gotten multiple awards and great reviews, but it wasn’t all-amazing to me. Score - 7.5/10
JP’s opinions:
Set - The set of Dear Evan Hansen was an integral part of the plot since much of the play took place on social media. This unique feature was projected onto a screen on either side of the stage. Although I feel the show could have had a more detailed set to compliment the scene, the innovative panels portraying social media played a large part in the success in this Tony award-winning musical.- (8/10)
Music - This music seemed to be the typical broadway music. Although, the New York Times raves over the music. I honestly feel it was nothing special. - (5/10)
Plot - I appreciate the idea of writing a play about mental health. It is an important topic and deserves to be discussed. I feel they could have circled back to the theme of Evan Hansen’s ability to communicate that was brought up at the beginning near the end of the musical. I loved that idea, but I feel they could have brought it back more throughout the musical. - (6/10)
Creativity - (9/10)
I am impressed with the knowledge and maturity at which this musical presented mental illness. Although, I do feel they could have expanded on this topic more often in-depth throughout the musical. This musical definitely deserves the press it receives but we should not forget all the qualities that make Dear Evan Hansen. Score - 7/10
Charles’ opinion:
Set - The set was phenomenal. One of the best I have seen on Broadway. The set felt like it was a crucial part of the play. The projections on the ground and the screens were visible from our seats. The olay would not be the same without the amazing set design. - (10/10)
Music - The musical was standard broadway music. Nothing was very special about the music in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong the songs were nice but it was no Hamilton. - (7/10)
Plot - The plot was very unrealistic and it was as if the plot was rushed. There was a lot of opportunity for more engaging material. This large of a confusion should have lasted longer. When he didn’t confess that there was a mix-up that was unrealistic. I feel that it could be introduced in a better play. - (5/10)
Favorite scene - My favorite scene was the scenes where Evan and Jared are texting. It expresses both of their true emotions.
Score - 7.3/10
Overall Score - 7.2/10
Zeba’s opinions:
Set - The set was a crucial component to the play, and it truly livened the performance. The surrounding screens added an exceptionally innovative layer to the formulaic system of Broadway Musicals. Having the musicians intertwined with the rest of the performance was an odd yet surprisingly enjoyable choice. - (10/10)
Music - The music was pleasant, and having the musicians visibly on the stage was a creative addition, but it still just felt like usual Broadway music. - (8/10)
Plot - The plot felt too outlandish for me to enjoy. I just couldn’t fully believe that Evan would go to such lengths in his lie, and it aggravated me for the entirety of the play. - (5/10)
Favorite scene - The scenes where Evan and his mom had heartfelt conversations were emotionally touching and the most gratifying to me. Those sincere and meaningful moments were what I had anticipated when coming into the play, and I wished there were more of them.
I found that Dear Evan Hansen’s ending was unsatisfactory and that the play as a whole was overrated. I felt that the mental illness aspect could have been further examined and would have made for a more heartfelt and compelling storyline. Dear Evan Hansen might have gotten multiple awards and great reviews, but it wasn’t all-amazing to me. Score - 7.5/10
JP’s opinions:
Set - The set of Dear Evan Hansen was an integral part of the plot since much of the play took place on social media. This unique feature was projected onto a screen on either side of the stage. Although I feel the show could have had a more detailed set to compliment the scene, the innovative panels portraying social media played a large part in the success in this Tony award-winning musical.- (8/10)
Music - This music seemed to be the typical broadway music. Although, the New York Times raves over the music. I honestly feel it was nothing special. - (5/10)
Plot - I appreciate the idea of writing a play about mental health. It is an important topic and deserves to be discussed. I feel they could have circled back to the theme of Evan Hansen’s ability to communicate that was brought up at the beginning near the end of the musical. I loved that idea, but I feel they could have brought it back more throughout the musical. - (6/10)
Creativity - (9/10)
I am impressed with the knowledge and maturity at which this musical presented mental illness. Although, I do feel they could have expanded on this topic more often in-depth throughout the musical. This musical definitely deserves the press it receives but we should not forget all the qualities that make Dear Evan Hansen. Score - 7/10
Charles’ opinion:
Set - The set was phenomenal. One of the best I have seen on Broadway. The set felt like it was a crucial part of the play. The projections on the ground and the screens were visible from our seats. The olay would not be the same without the amazing set design. - (10/10)
Music - The musical was standard broadway music. Nothing was very special about the music in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong the songs were nice but it was no Hamilton. - (7/10)
Plot - The plot was very unrealistic and it was as if the plot was rushed. There was a lot of opportunity for more engaging material. This large of a confusion should have lasted longer. When he didn’t confess that there was a mix-up that was unrealistic. I feel that it could be introduced in a better play. - (5/10)
Favorite scene - My favorite scene was the scenes where Evan and Jared are texting. It expresses both of their true emotions.
Score - 7.3/10
Overall Score - 7.2/10
The New MOMA, JP 13/14s
On October 21st, the new MOMA reopened with a 47,000 square foot expansion. With this came new perfectly curated paintings, experiences, architecture, performances, technologies, and other obscure modern inventions.
As shown in the second photo, the MOMA has begun to redefine how we see art. Instead of simply staring at a painting, art has become an experience. In the Rainforest V by David Tudor, I walked through a surrounding of objects such as logs and barrels that hung from the ceiling making various sounds such as the humming of a bell. Another example of this is The Killing Machine (above at the top), a work by Janet Cardiff and George Miller where a visitor presses a button prompting lights to flash, a chair to slowly turn, and two robotic arms to take action. Many people are confused or unsure with the title, “art,” for these works, but whether or not it sits on a wall, it is an important mention in this new museum as it leads the way of modern art.
The new MOMA also includes a room called the Antique Room with a collection of unique and beneficially random artworks cluttered together as if it really was an antique store. There is also a big exhibit on architecture which includes a small room with small models of architecture in places where one would least expect such as sushi wrappers, sponges and other small items we see in our everyday lives. As well as small pieces of architecture, the MOMA also includes large scale pieces of architecture big enough to walk inside.
Lastly, another important mention at the MOMA is its performances. These performances often incorporate visual art as well such as a room with large rocks where a different singer comes to perform daily. Another example is a big room where abstract geometric 2D and 3D objects cover the ground and walls. In this setting, a group of about ten people simply walk through and around the shapes as visitors watch.
I highly suggest visiting the new MOMA to witness the modern endeavors it shows such as performances, architecture, experiences, and other art that cannot be described by such words.
The new MOMA also includes a room called the Antique Room with a collection of unique and beneficially random artworks cluttered together as if it really was an antique store. There is also a big exhibit on architecture which includes a small room with small models of architecture in places where one would least expect such as sushi wrappers, sponges and other small items we see in our everyday lives. As well as small pieces of architecture, the MOMA also includes large scale pieces of architecture big enough to walk inside.
Lastly, another important mention at the MOMA is its performances. These performances often incorporate visual art as well such as a room with large rocks where a different singer comes to perform daily. Another example is a big room where abstract geometric 2D and 3D objects cover the ground and walls. In this setting, a group of about ten people simply walk through and around the shapes as visitors watch.
I highly suggest visiting the new MOMA to witness the modern endeavors it shows such as performances, architecture, experiences, and other art that cannot be described by such words.
Drawing #1: An Interestingly-Drawn Billie Eilish
Nan, 11/12
The title of this drawing is Drawing #1: An Interestingly-Drawn Billie Eilish. The drawing is a sharpie drawing of Billie EiIish. I drew it because I have been listening to a lot of her music recently. My favorite song is Lovely. I decided to add sharpie because I thought it would make it look cleaner. This drawing is in a series called Nan's Sharpie Art.
On the Come Up: A Book Review
Darien Gottlieb, 10/11s
On the Come Up, the compelling sequel to The Hate U Give is one of the amazing books by the #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Angie Thomas.
On the Come Up is the story of a seventeen-year-old aspiring rapper named Bri, whose only way out of her poor neighborhood is getting her “come up” in rap. But then Bri goes viral, but for all the wrong reasons. Then, her mom loses her job. All of the sudden, Bri’s come up seems very far fetched.
On the Come Up starts up with a bam, the first sentence being “I’m going to have to kill someone tonight.” Bri then goes to explain that she is going to have to kill someone in a rap battle, so she can get her “come up” and get her family food and comfort. “When I started the book, I thought about what was the most traumatic thing in my life,” Angie Thomas says in an interview with The Guardian magazine. “It was that experience of my mom losing her job and my family going into crisis mode. We were living off the benefits my grandmother received and, even with that, there were days when we didn’t know if we’d have enough food. So this book was definitely from my own experience.”
On the Come Up talks about very intense topics, like the violence that happens in Bri’s neighborhood and in her school because she is black. On the Come Up gives you a look into the lives of people like Bri; people who sometimes don’t have food in their homes, or people who get harassed at school because of their skin color. On the Come Up is an intelligent, funny and moving story, and I highly recommend it to students and teachers alike.
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/jan/27/angie-thomas-the-hate-u-give-interview-famous-fans-readers
On the Come Up is the story of a seventeen-year-old aspiring rapper named Bri, whose only way out of her poor neighborhood is getting her “come up” in rap. But then Bri goes viral, but for all the wrong reasons. Then, her mom loses her job. All of the sudden, Bri’s come up seems very far fetched.
On the Come Up starts up with a bam, the first sentence being “I’m going to have to kill someone tonight.” Bri then goes to explain that she is going to have to kill someone in a rap battle, so she can get her “come up” and get her family food and comfort. “When I started the book, I thought about what was the most traumatic thing in my life,” Angie Thomas says in an interview with The Guardian magazine. “It was that experience of my mom losing her job and my family going into crisis mode. We were living off the benefits my grandmother received and, even with that, there were days when we didn’t know if we’d have enough food. So this book was definitely from my own experience.”
On the Come Up talks about very intense topics, like the violence that happens in Bri’s neighborhood and in her school because she is black. On the Come Up gives you a look into the lives of people like Bri; people who sometimes don’t have food in their homes, or people who get harassed at school because of their skin color. On the Come Up is an intelligent, funny and moving story, and I highly recommend it to students and teachers alike.
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/jan/27/angie-thomas-the-hate-u-give-interview-famous-fans-readers
Ode To an Air Conditioned Car, JP 13/14s
A bead of sweat
drips
down my neck as I run
to catch the subway
praying
I will not be late to school.
As I escape the hot, summer sun
To the underground
I Decide between two subway cars
Testing which one looks more cool and innocent
Near the crowded platform.
I hop on to a cooler car
And my sweat vanishes
My energy returns
And i feel fresh
On an air conditioned car
drips
down my neck as I run
to catch the subway
praying
I will not be late to school.
As I escape the hot, summer sun
To the underground
I Decide between two subway cars
Testing which one looks more cool and innocent
Near the crowded platform.
I hop on to a cooler car
And my sweat vanishes
My energy returns
And i feel fresh
On an air conditioned car
If You Really Care: Two Stories Intertwined
Autumn By Noura, 12/13s
They never wanted me. They wanted a boy. Not me. So this was my perfect opportunity to run.
I logged on to the chat room… the screen loaded…. I wonder if Stacie is on today? The computer makes a pinging sound and I’m on.
Itsyagirlautumn883
Hiii (:
Noah6534
Hey
Lillie09223
Wyd?
Itsyagirlautumn883
Not much you?
Lillie09223
I was studying but I got bored so now i'm here
ItsmeOliver789
What's up everyone!!?
Itsyagirlautmn883
Oh heyy
ItsmeOliver789
Is there any way I can get yall’s snaps?
Itsyagirlautmn883
Ya its @itsyagirlautmn8838
We texted for hours, and eventually he asked me to come to his house. I said no, but he begged and said, “if you really care you would come.” To be honest, I was sad and needed someone to talk to after what happened with Levi. So I did.
I picked myself up from my bed and walked to the garage. I looked at dad's cars. I knew he wouldn't notice if I took one of the smaller, less fancy ones. I ended up deciding on his red shiny BMW. I grabbed the keys and clicked the unlock button. I gently slipped into the shiny black leather seat, hoping this would make me happy, hoping I could get away from mom and dad. I picked up my phone and checked the time: 3:32 PM. I would be at Oliver's around six.
I checked my SnapMap to add Oliver's location to Google Maps on the car’s screen, buckled my seat belt and tapped the on button. I stopped for a second to think, is this a good idea? But the thought quickly subsided. I had nothing to lose. In less than a minute, I was on the road.
I connected my bluetooth and turned on my Lana playlist. The slow smooth music pulsed through my veins, and in what felt like just an hour of calm driving I was turning the corner right onto his block. I checked my SnapMap again just to make sure which house it was, and I saw that Elodie had texted me 10 times. I ignored the messages and placed my phone in the cupholder.
I parked the car next to the sidewalk of the condos. They were all perfectly manicured and right in front of the beach. I felt a pang of jealousy, until I saw the house I was going to. Condo 83 had rust dripping down the front, an overgrown lawn, and a lawn chair next to a side table with an ashtray overflowing with old cigarette butts and stinky beer cans.
I slowly walked up to the door. My eyes lingered at the peephole. I was hesitant to knock. I felt a prick of fear, but my instincts were usually wrong so I quickly knocked three times. As I stood waiting at the door, I heard the creaking of Oliver's chair as he stood up and the heavy thumps as he walked to the door. It swung open. The man standing there was definitely not Oliver. He was a couple inches taller than me with clothes too big and food stains running down the front. His breath smelled sour. “Where is Oliver? What did you do with Oliver?” I yelled at him. He grinned. “Autumn! I’ve been waiting for you! Come in.” As I turned to run, he grabbed me by the hand and violently lifted me over his shoulder. I kicked and yelled but it didn't work. He would not let go. I saw the inside of his house: a dirty brown couch in front of a tv and white walls that were slowly turning a dirty yellow. He took me to his bedroom and forced me to drink a bitter liquid. I felt my legs go numb, lurching forward and trying to land on the bed. I didn't want to fall on the hard floor. In an instant it all went black.
I logged on to the chat room… the screen loaded…. I wonder if Stacie is on today? The computer makes a pinging sound and I’m on.
Itsyagirlautumn883
Hiii (:
Noah6534
Hey
Lillie09223
Wyd?
Itsyagirlautumn883
Not much you?
Lillie09223
I was studying but I got bored so now i'm here
ItsmeOliver789
What's up everyone!!?
Itsyagirlautmn883
Oh heyy
ItsmeOliver789
Is there any way I can get yall’s snaps?
Itsyagirlautmn883
Ya its @itsyagirlautmn8838
We texted for hours, and eventually he asked me to come to his house. I said no, but he begged and said, “if you really care you would come.” To be honest, I was sad and needed someone to talk to after what happened with Levi. So I did.
I picked myself up from my bed and walked to the garage. I looked at dad's cars. I knew he wouldn't notice if I took one of the smaller, less fancy ones. I ended up deciding on his red shiny BMW. I grabbed the keys and clicked the unlock button. I gently slipped into the shiny black leather seat, hoping this would make me happy, hoping I could get away from mom and dad. I picked up my phone and checked the time: 3:32 PM. I would be at Oliver's around six.
I checked my SnapMap to add Oliver's location to Google Maps on the car’s screen, buckled my seat belt and tapped the on button. I stopped for a second to think, is this a good idea? But the thought quickly subsided. I had nothing to lose. In less than a minute, I was on the road.
I connected my bluetooth and turned on my Lana playlist. The slow smooth music pulsed through my veins, and in what felt like just an hour of calm driving I was turning the corner right onto his block. I checked my SnapMap again just to make sure which house it was, and I saw that Elodie had texted me 10 times. I ignored the messages and placed my phone in the cupholder.
I parked the car next to the sidewalk of the condos. They were all perfectly manicured and right in front of the beach. I felt a pang of jealousy, until I saw the house I was going to. Condo 83 had rust dripping down the front, an overgrown lawn, and a lawn chair next to a side table with an ashtray overflowing with old cigarette butts and stinky beer cans.
I slowly walked up to the door. My eyes lingered at the peephole. I was hesitant to knock. I felt a prick of fear, but my instincts were usually wrong so I quickly knocked three times. As I stood waiting at the door, I heard the creaking of Oliver's chair as he stood up and the heavy thumps as he walked to the door. It swung open. The man standing there was definitely not Oliver. He was a couple inches taller than me with clothes too big and food stains running down the front. His breath smelled sour. “Where is Oliver? What did you do with Oliver?” I yelled at him. He grinned. “Autumn! I’ve been waiting for you! Come in.” As I turned to run, he grabbed me by the hand and violently lifted me over his shoulder. I kicked and yelled but it didn't work. He would not let go. I saw the inside of his house: a dirty brown couch in front of a tv and white walls that were slowly turning a dirty yellow. He took me to his bedroom and forced me to drink a bitter liquid. I felt my legs go numb, lurching forward and trying to land on the bed. I didn't want to fall on the hard floor. In an instant it all went black.
If You Really Care: Two Stories Intertwined Elodie By Nora, 12/13s
We talked every day after school before It happened. We gossiped about Mara's attempts to get with Stan. We texted over hot chocolate about prom. Autumn spent so much time on her phone that her silence came as a shock. Despite that, almost no one noticed. Not even her parents.
Autumn's parents had a problem. They didn't care one bit about their daughter. They often didn't feed her because they assumed that their maid service would. In fact, they hadn't even wanted a daughter in the first place, only a son, but they didn't care enough to put her up for adoption.
So nobody noticed when Autumn disappeared over winter break. Except me.
The last time I saw Autumn was over video chat. She was sad because her boyfriend, Levi, had just broken up with her after a big fight. She was sobbing, but I don't think she told me everything. They were very close.
I suspected something else was bothering her. I went to her parent's apartment on the Lower East Side and knocked to see if she was home. When their cleaning maid answered the door, I knew she wasn't. Autumn always came to the front hall when someone knocked.
Despite this, I asked the maid where she was. When she said Autumn was sulking in her room and hadn't come out for days, I asked if I could go see her.
Sure enough, when I got to her bedroom, she was gone.
I looked around for anything she had left, any clues to where she had gone. All I found was a love note to her crush from preschool dated twelve years ago and a bit of spare change. Even her clothes were gone, as if she had packed.
I went home and flopped on my bed. I tried to sleep, but Autumn's disappearance kept me up. I checked my phone for a sign of her, and was greeted by one notification from Snapchat. Autumn had opened it, and her location had updated. She was out of the city, well into Long Island.
I had no idea how she had gotten there. Autumn didn't have a car, and she didn't have enough money to rent one. Her parents didn't give her an allowance, and she didn't even have a license yet, only a junior one. But however she had gotten there, I raced to my own car to get to her.
It was an old, beat-up Honda Civic. The engine rattled as it turned over, and it sputtered to life as I coaxed it down the road. Soon I was on I-495 leaving New York and headed to the place Snapmap had said Autumn was, Montauk, Long Island. I drove for three hours and change until I got to the last place her Snap had shown her. It was a suburban-style street, with neat houses and shady lawns. Their backyards, however, stretched out into meadows. All the houses on this street looked inconspicuous and average, except for one. It had all the shutters closed and the yard was overgrown, as if no one had bothered to take care of it. I drew in a slow breath, walked up to the door, and knocked.
Three hard knocks sounded through the house. The man got out of his chair, and stretched. He checked that Autumn was still passed out on the bed from the sedative and answered.
It was a creepy guy. I know that's cliche, but that's the only word for him. His clothes were too big, his breath smelled, and he smirked, his eyes lingering too long on my chest. My eyes followed his arm as he grabbed me, paralyzed, and pulled me into the house.
Autumn's parents had a problem. They didn't care one bit about their daughter. They often didn't feed her because they assumed that their maid service would. In fact, they hadn't even wanted a daughter in the first place, only a son, but they didn't care enough to put her up for adoption.
So nobody noticed when Autumn disappeared over winter break. Except me.
The last time I saw Autumn was over video chat. She was sad because her boyfriend, Levi, had just broken up with her after a big fight. She was sobbing, but I don't think she told me everything. They were very close.
I suspected something else was bothering her. I went to her parent's apartment on the Lower East Side and knocked to see if she was home. When their cleaning maid answered the door, I knew she wasn't. Autumn always came to the front hall when someone knocked.
Despite this, I asked the maid where she was. When she said Autumn was sulking in her room and hadn't come out for days, I asked if I could go see her.
Sure enough, when I got to her bedroom, she was gone.
I looked around for anything she had left, any clues to where she had gone. All I found was a love note to her crush from preschool dated twelve years ago and a bit of spare change. Even her clothes were gone, as if she had packed.
I went home and flopped on my bed. I tried to sleep, but Autumn's disappearance kept me up. I checked my phone for a sign of her, and was greeted by one notification from Snapchat. Autumn had opened it, and her location had updated. She was out of the city, well into Long Island.
I had no idea how she had gotten there. Autumn didn't have a car, and she didn't have enough money to rent one. Her parents didn't give her an allowance, and she didn't even have a license yet, only a junior one. But however she had gotten there, I raced to my own car to get to her.
It was an old, beat-up Honda Civic. The engine rattled as it turned over, and it sputtered to life as I coaxed it down the road. Soon I was on I-495 leaving New York and headed to the place Snapmap had said Autumn was, Montauk, Long Island. I drove for three hours and change until I got to the last place her Snap had shown her. It was a suburban-style street, with neat houses and shady lawns. Their backyards, however, stretched out into meadows. All the houses on this street looked inconspicuous and average, except for one. It had all the shutters closed and the yard was overgrown, as if no one had bothered to take care of it. I drew in a slow breath, walked up to the door, and knocked.
Three hard knocks sounded through the house. The man got out of his chair, and stretched. He checked that Autumn was still passed out on the bed from the sedative and answered.
It was a creepy guy. I know that's cliche, but that's the only word for him. His clothes were too big, his breath smelled, and he smirked, his eyes lingering too long on my chest. My eyes followed his arm as he grabbed me, paralyzed, and pulled me into the house.
A Duet for Home
Leela, 10/11s
Hello Bank Street Live readers! Have you read the Vanderbeekers by Karina Yan Glaser? Today I’m going to recommend to you a book by the same author which is AMAZING in my opinion.
I am recommending A Duet for Home, a book by the same author as the Vanderbeekers of 141st street. It is a sweet, heartwarming book about family and home.
Violinist June moves into a strange building with her dog-loving sister and her mother. She and her mother are slowly drifting apart, and her mother hasn’t said more than a few words at a time ever since her father died in a terrible car accident. She finds out the same day that she moves in that this is a homeless shelter. The shelter has a kindly security guard and a strict manager, but most interesting of all are two other kids her age: Jeremiah and Tyrell. Tyrell has lived in the shelter since he was eight years old and so has his best friend, Jeremiah. Just when the three decide to accept their fate that they're going to be there forever, a new government policy is announced that they must move out in ninety days. This heartwarming tale is a must-read for Vanderbeeker fans.
I recommend this book because it really has a good message and it is a beautiful story. It’s an emotional roller coaster - some parts make you cry buckets of tears and some make you laugh your heart out, and some confuse you a lot. Not everything in this book makes sense. It’s up to your own interpretation.
First and foremost I recommend this to any Vanderbeeker lovers - this book is by the same author and has so many similarities. If you don’t like the Vanderbeekers, it really depends. If you like really easy to understand, happy ending, simple books, then this book may not be for you. This book has a sort-of-happy ending, but you may not be satisfied with it.
Well I hope this was a helpful recommendation and you found yourself a new book to read!
I am recommending A Duet for Home, a book by the same author as the Vanderbeekers of 141st street. It is a sweet, heartwarming book about family and home.
Violinist June moves into a strange building with her dog-loving sister and her mother. She and her mother are slowly drifting apart, and her mother hasn’t said more than a few words at a time ever since her father died in a terrible car accident. She finds out the same day that she moves in that this is a homeless shelter. The shelter has a kindly security guard and a strict manager, but most interesting of all are two other kids her age: Jeremiah and Tyrell. Tyrell has lived in the shelter since he was eight years old and so has his best friend, Jeremiah. Just when the three decide to accept their fate that they're going to be there forever, a new government policy is announced that they must move out in ninety days. This heartwarming tale is a must-read for Vanderbeeker fans.
I recommend this book because it really has a good message and it is a beautiful story. It’s an emotional roller coaster - some parts make you cry buckets of tears and some make you laugh your heart out, and some confuse you a lot. Not everything in this book makes sense. It’s up to your own interpretation.
First and foremost I recommend this to any Vanderbeeker lovers - this book is by the same author and has so many similarities. If you don’t like the Vanderbeekers, it really depends. If you like really easy to understand, happy ending, simple books, then this book may not be for you. This book has a sort-of-happy ending, but you may not be satisfied with it.
Well I hope this was a helpful recommendation and you found yourself a new book to read!
Contemporary Dance: The Origins and The Women Influencers Too! Violet, 10/11s
You have probably heard of ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap dancing, contemporary, lyrical, ballroom, and many more types of dances! What about their origins? Where did they start? Right now, let’s focus on contemporary dance. Around the 1980s, the word “contemporary dance” connected to the movement of new dancers. The dancers did not want to follow the strict rules of ballet and lyrical dance. They wanted to explore the area of revolutionary, unconventional movements. The dance moves were gathered from all dance styles of the world.
Contemporary dances do not use fixed moves like in ballet, but instead try to develop new forms and dynamics, like quick moves, emotional expressions, and dance moves performed in non-standing positions. In general, contemporary dance is trying to find the absolute limits of our human form and physique–what our bodies can do–and how they can express ideas and tell stories.
The origins of this popular dance movement can be traced to several influential dance masters such as Isadora Duncan and Martha Graham. Both women! They wanted to show to the world that contemporary dancers should embrace freedom, ignore old dance rules and explore the limits of the human body to express feelings visually. And that is the origin of contemporary dance.
Contemporary dances do not use fixed moves like in ballet, but instead try to develop new forms and dynamics, like quick moves, emotional expressions, and dance moves performed in non-standing positions. In general, contemporary dance is trying to find the absolute limits of our human form and physique–what our bodies can do–and how they can express ideas and tell stories.
The origins of this popular dance movement can be traced to several influential dance masters such as Isadora Duncan and Martha Graham. Both women! They wanted to show to the world that contemporary dancers should embrace freedom, ignore old dance rules and explore the limits of the human body to express feelings visually. And that is the origin of contemporary dance.
Pocket Poems - Issue 3,
Nora, 10/11s
Goal
The feeling of that
Winning kick was more than I
Could have imagined.
The feeling of that
Winning kick was more than I
Could have imagined.
Speed Skaters
Racing around the rink
Looks like thirty or forty
Miles per hour
I want to do that
Someday.
The Dancer
Spinning around
An arabesque
Careful routine
A graceful bow.
Racing around the rink
Looks like thirty or forty
Miles per hour
I want to do that
Someday.
The Dancer
Spinning around
An arabesque
Careful routine
A graceful bow.
Pocket Poems - Issue 3
Nora, 10/11s
This issue’s topic is seasons, specifically changing seasons.
Lone Tree
Above the topaz valley, Lone Tree stands.
On top of the high green hill
Her leaves falling
Her roots bracing for when Jack Frost
Makes the long climb
From the nearby mountains
To the top of the hill.
Crocuses
A white blanket of
snow. Little purple flowers
Gaze out at the world.
From Spring To Summer
It’s hard to tell when it happens exactly
Because they fade together like a gradient Zoom background.
Trees and flowers look the same.
Birds tweet the same.
The heat is pretty much the same.
But you can feel it.
It is in your soul.
Lone Tree
Above the topaz valley, Lone Tree stands.
On top of the high green hill
Her leaves falling
Her roots bracing for when Jack Frost
Makes the long climb
From the nearby mountains
To the top of the hill.
Crocuses
A white blanket of
snow. Little purple flowers
Gaze out at the world.
From Spring To Summer
It’s hard to tell when it happens exactly
Because they fade together like a gradient Zoom background.
Trees and flowers look the same.
Birds tweet the same.
The heat is pretty much the same.
But you can feel it.
It is in your soul.
Venom Series: Part 2, Henry 10/11s
The Venom series is about Venom vs Ultron. Ultron is a being that blows past the boundaries of the universe and wants to bring peace to it by eliminating all life. Venom is an alien symbiote bonded with a human and is an anti-hero.
In episode two Carnage beats Venom but then Ultron comes along. Ultron introduces himself and blasts Carnage.
In episode two Carnage beats Venom but then Ultron comes along. Ultron introduces himself and blasts Carnage.
Writer's Choice: A Messy Wednesday
Sabrina D, 13/14s
It was a regular Wednesday morning. I woke up, got dressed, got coffee, and started my commute to school. My first stop was the train. I pushed through the turnstile and walked into the station, sitting down in the first empty seat I saw, the sounds of unintelligible speech filling my ears. It was crowded, more so than usual. I went into my backpack and took out a book. My train wouldn’t be arriving for a few more minutes so I thought I might as well read to make the time pass a bit faster.
After what felt like only a few seconds, my train arrived, the wheels screeching on the tracks as it began to slow down to a stop. I picked up my bag and boarded the train. People began filing in and it soon became clear to me that this train ride would not be a very comfortable one as all the seats had been taken, forcing me to stand.
After a few minutes of being on the train, it stopped abruptly. “Hello everyone. We are delayed because of an incident ahead. We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to be moving again shortly. Thank you for your patience.”
Of course this would happen on a day when I woke up late. I checked my watch. It was currently 8:36 and school started at 9:00 on the dot. If I wasn’t there at least 10 minutes early, I would be in deep trouble.
I was trying to look out my window to see what was ahead of us when all of a sudden, the lights flickered. They flickered once, then twice, and then went out.
It was silent for a few seconds. The only sound being the breathing of the people around me. Then I heard a thumping sound. Like someone was banging their fists against the outside of the train. Then more thumping. The sound began to grow louder till it sounded like the whole train was surrounded by people, banging their heads and fists against the train. People began screaming in fear. I looked outside the window but could only see shadows of people standing outside since the only light was coming from the headlights of the train. We were deep underground and there was no sunlight as far as the eye could see.
Suddenly, there was a blinding light right next to my face. A man had taken his phone out and turned on its flashlight. He went up to the window and pointed the beam of light outside. As soon as he got a good look at what was outside, he froze. I went over to see what had caused such a reaction.
Outside was a sea of disfigured humans, tearing at the train. I backed away from the window. I had no idea what was happening but I knew one thing for sure. I had to get off the train.
Suddenly, the lights flickered back on. Everyone was in a panic, moving all at once toward the doors. They had all seen what was outside and wanted to get as far away as possible from it. I went to one of the doors that led to the next train car. I tried to open it but it was stuck. I looked through the window. There was almost no one in the car next to us. It was almost entirely empty. After a few seconds of staring, I heard a rumbling sound. People began pouring into the train next to us, screaming and running toward the door I was at. Some of them fell since everyone was pushing forward so hard. They ran up to the door, frantically trying to open it. One lady in front was mouthing something while banging at the door. She kept looking back behind her as if she was worried something was nearby. The only sound I could hear from their car was the low hum of screams.
Suddenly, all the life in the woman's eyes left her. Something had grabbed her and pulled her towards the floor. Seconds later she stood up, only this time, she looked different. Her face was disfigured and bloody, her hair a mess, her skin a yellowish gray. She turned her head in a way no human should be able to turn it and began banging her fists against the door, trying to get to my train car.
I turned around and ran as fast as I could. The door on the opposite side of the car was unlocked. I pushed through it and began running. I was able to get all the way to the end of the train but the last door was stuck. I sat under a seat and held my knees to my chest, my hand over my mouth. My breath was ragged. It was dead quiet for a second. Then, I heard a “ding” sound. The door I had closed behind me when running in here with a panic, had opened. Letting in hundreds of what I could only label as zombies.
After what felt like only a few seconds, my train arrived, the wheels screeching on the tracks as it began to slow down to a stop. I picked up my bag and boarded the train. People began filing in and it soon became clear to me that this train ride would not be a very comfortable one as all the seats had been taken, forcing me to stand.
After a few minutes of being on the train, it stopped abruptly. “Hello everyone. We are delayed because of an incident ahead. We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to be moving again shortly. Thank you for your patience.”
Of course this would happen on a day when I woke up late. I checked my watch. It was currently 8:36 and school started at 9:00 on the dot. If I wasn’t there at least 10 minutes early, I would be in deep trouble.
I was trying to look out my window to see what was ahead of us when all of a sudden, the lights flickered. They flickered once, then twice, and then went out.
It was silent for a few seconds. The only sound being the breathing of the people around me. Then I heard a thumping sound. Like someone was banging their fists against the outside of the train. Then more thumping. The sound began to grow louder till it sounded like the whole train was surrounded by people, banging their heads and fists against the train. People began screaming in fear. I looked outside the window but could only see shadows of people standing outside since the only light was coming from the headlights of the train. We were deep underground and there was no sunlight as far as the eye could see.
Suddenly, there was a blinding light right next to my face. A man had taken his phone out and turned on its flashlight. He went up to the window and pointed the beam of light outside. As soon as he got a good look at what was outside, he froze. I went over to see what had caused such a reaction.
Outside was a sea of disfigured humans, tearing at the train. I backed away from the window. I had no idea what was happening but I knew one thing for sure. I had to get off the train.
Suddenly, the lights flickered back on. Everyone was in a panic, moving all at once toward the doors. They had all seen what was outside and wanted to get as far away as possible from it. I went to one of the doors that led to the next train car. I tried to open it but it was stuck. I looked through the window. There was almost no one in the car next to us. It was almost entirely empty. After a few seconds of staring, I heard a rumbling sound. People began pouring into the train next to us, screaming and running toward the door I was at. Some of them fell since everyone was pushing forward so hard. They ran up to the door, frantically trying to open it. One lady in front was mouthing something while banging at the door. She kept looking back behind her as if she was worried something was nearby. The only sound I could hear from their car was the low hum of screams.
Suddenly, all the life in the woman's eyes left her. Something had grabbed her and pulled her towards the floor. Seconds later she stood up, only this time, she looked different. Her face was disfigured and bloody, her hair a mess, her skin a yellowish gray. She turned her head in a way no human should be able to turn it and began banging her fists against the door, trying to get to my train car.
I turned around and ran as fast as I could. The door on the opposite side of the car was unlocked. I pushed through it and began running. I was able to get all the way to the end of the train but the last door was stuck. I sat under a seat and held my knees to my chest, my hand over my mouth. My breath was ragged. It was dead quiet for a second. Then, I heard a “ding” sound. The door I had closed behind me when running in here with a panic, had opened. Letting in hundreds of what I could only label as zombies.
Harry Styles; Halloween Costume Party
Hudson, 13/14s
I was given tickets to Harry Styles’ Halloween celebration located at Madison Square Garden on October 30th for my birthday. Harry is a huge part of my life so I was very excited for this opportunity. I went with Hayden, my friend, Julia, Hayden’s sister who is basically my sister, and Briana, Hayden’s Dad’s girlfriend. It was a long journey from the Upper West Side to the lower part of Manhattan, with many tears of joy, but we made it. The streets were covered with people dressed up and eagerly making their way inside. As the night went on more and more excitement filled my body. The hours leading up to Harry’s act went by so slow. He had two amazing acts before him but it was so hard to focus when I was busy thinking about the fact that I was about to witness Harry performing in front of my very eyes.
At 9:30 pm Harry and his band took the stage all dressed as Wizard of Oz characters, Harry being Dorothy He was dressed in a blue and white checkered dress with strawberries on it, red tights, makeup, red sparkly sandals with blue socks attached and a shimmery bow. The audience was cheering so loud, the floor was shaking. Harry’s outfit blew me away, I was and still am in love with what he was wearing. One thing that truly continues to inspire me about Harry is his constant push to even out gender norms and make sure everyone feels comfortable in their own skin.
This was the first time Harry appeared in public wearing a dress since Billy Porter stated “Vogue still put Harry Styles, a straight white man, in a dress on their cover for the first time.”... “He doesn’t care, he’s just doing it because it is the right thing to do.” This statement was based on the release of Vogue's first male to be the cover of their magazine, who was Harry, and not only the first male but the first male to appear in a dress. Porter claims that Harry was doing this for his public profile and was only picked because he was a white straight man. Harry does identify as a white male but has identified differently with the other parts of Porter’s statement. Harry countless times has spoken and created a platform that is about equality between genders, races, and identities. Harry also regularly wears nail polish, he’s appeared in a complete ballerina outfit on SNL, and has had many photoshoots where he has dressed in “feminine” clothing, all of which most of society would consider feminine things. Harry has also stated after being asked if he was labeled with a specific sexuality “No, I’ve never felt the need to really.” “I don’t feel like it’s something I’ve ever felt like I have to explain about myself.” “It’s weird for me. Everyone should just be who they want to be. It’s tough to justify somebody having to answer to someone else about stuff like that.” he reported this to the Sun back in 2017 when his first album, HS1 was first released. These facts show that Porter made some assumptions about Harry that are actually inaccurate.
To clear this up I don’t completely disagree with Porter, I do think he deserves to be a figure on the front of Vogue and does deserve credit for being a big part as to where fashion is today. I just disagree that he wants to take all the credit , and not only that, but also make assumptions about another artist who has constantly been active with breaking norms as well. I’d also like to cover that I completely support and love Harry for who he is and what he decides to style in. I also love Pose and Billy Porter’s role in the tv show though I don’t know a lot more about him as a person.
It is our job as a worldwide community to come together and respectfully fight as one to break these norms and set our own boundaries so everyone remains comfortable with who they want to be no matter their race, sexuality, gender, hobbies, age, or any other forms of identification no matter who we are or what platforms we have.
At 9:30 pm Harry and his band took the stage all dressed as Wizard of Oz characters, Harry being Dorothy He was dressed in a blue and white checkered dress with strawberries on it, red tights, makeup, red sparkly sandals with blue socks attached and a shimmery bow. The audience was cheering so loud, the floor was shaking. Harry’s outfit blew me away, I was and still am in love with what he was wearing. One thing that truly continues to inspire me about Harry is his constant push to even out gender norms and make sure everyone feels comfortable in their own skin.
This was the first time Harry appeared in public wearing a dress since Billy Porter stated “Vogue still put Harry Styles, a straight white man, in a dress on their cover for the first time.”... “He doesn’t care, he’s just doing it because it is the right thing to do.” This statement was based on the release of Vogue's first male to be the cover of their magazine, who was Harry, and not only the first male but the first male to appear in a dress. Porter claims that Harry was doing this for his public profile and was only picked because he was a white straight man. Harry does identify as a white male but has identified differently with the other parts of Porter’s statement. Harry countless times has spoken and created a platform that is about equality between genders, races, and identities. Harry also regularly wears nail polish, he’s appeared in a complete ballerina outfit on SNL, and has had many photoshoots where he has dressed in “feminine” clothing, all of which most of society would consider feminine things. Harry has also stated after being asked if he was labeled with a specific sexuality “No, I’ve never felt the need to really.” “I don’t feel like it’s something I’ve ever felt like I have to explain about myself.” “It’s weird for me. Everyone should just be who they want to be. It’s tough to justify somebody having to answer to someone else about stuff like that.” he reported this to the Sun back in 2017 when his first album, HS1 was first released. These facts show that Porter made some assumptions about Harry that are actually inaccurate.
To clear this up I don’t completely disagree with Porter, I do think he deserves to be a figure on the front of Vogue and does deserve credit for being a big part as to where fashion is today. I just disagree that he wants to take all the credit , and not only that, but also make assumptions about another artist who has constantly been active with breaking norms as well. I’d also like to cover that I completely support and love Harry for who he is and what he decides to style in. I also love Pose and Billy Porter’s role in the tv show though I don’t know a lot more about him as a person.
It is our job as a worldwide community to come together and respectfully fight as one to break these norms and set our own boundaries so everyone remains comfortable with who they want to be no matter their race, sexuality, gender, hobbies, age, or any other forms of identification no matter who we are or what platforms we have.
Winners of our Writing & Drawing Contest
Bank Street Live is very proud to present to you, our readers, the winners of our Fall/Winter 2021 Writing and Drawing Contest! We had many excellent submissions, which made the decisions tough. Each entry was carefully crafted and thoughtful, a testament to our strong creative community. The junior staff judged the senior work, and the senior staff judged the junior work. Please join us in congratulating the following winners:
Junior Writing: Myla I.
Junior Drawing: SJ
Senior Writing: Silvie C.
Senior Drawing: Liam B.
Well done! Please enjoy the winning entries below.
Junior Writing: Myla I.
Junior Drawing: SJ
Senior Writing: Silvie C.
Senior Drawing: Liam B.
Well done! Please enjoy the winning entries below.
UNSPOKEN SECRETS
Myla I.
It was a normal day, but when I got to school and opened my locker, pieces of paper came tumbling out. Secrets. People had written their secrets down, pushed them in the cracks of my locker, and waited for me to read them. There were no names on them. Just secrets. All of them very different. One read “I killed my brother’s cat” or “I snuck out to a party.” Everyone was staring at me as I read them. I slid all of them back into my locker and went to class thinking about why people trusted me with their secrets. No names on them, almost like their “Unspoken Secrets.”
Life
Silvie C
At 2, she wished to be a princess
At 4, she wished to be a mom
At 7, she wished to be a sister
At 10, she wanted to be pretty
At 11, she wished to be skinny
At 13, she wished to be happy
At 14, she wished to be dead
At 18, she graduates high school
At 20, she studies for her finals
At 22, she gets her diploma
At 24, she finds a career
At 28, she whispers, “I do”
At 29, she holds her newborn child
At 30, she says in tears, “I made it”
Myla I.
It was a normal day, but when I got to school and opened my locker, pieces of paper came tumbling out. Secrets. People had written their secrets down, pushed them in the cracks of my locker, and waited for me to read them. There were no names on them. Just secrets. All of them very different. One read “I killed my brother’s cat” or “I snuck out to a party.” Everyone was staring at me as I read them. I slid all of them back into my locker and went to class thinking about why people trusted me with their secrets. No names on them, almost like their “Unspoken Secrets.”
Life
Silvie C
At 2, she wished to be a princess
At 4, she wished to be a mom
At 7, she wished to be a sister
At 10, she wanted to be pretty
At 11, she wished to be skinny
At 13, she wished to be happy
At 14, she wished to be dead
At 18, she graduates high school
At 20, she studies for her finals
At 22, she gets her diploma
At 24, she finds a career
At 28, she whispers, “I do”
At 29, she holds her newborn child
At 30, she says in tears, “I made it”
100 Word Story Contest
What: Bank Street live is holding a writing and drawing contest! Any upper school student can enter, and the Bank Street Live staff will select the winner. Just write a 100 word story or draw a brief cartoon.
100 word story
- 100 words (no minimum; 110 maximum)
- Can be on any topic
- Must make sense on its own
- Can be on any topic
- 5-10 panels of a comic OR
- 1 page drawing
Prize: Your story published, plus an interview about yourself as a writer published in BSL
When:
Deadline: 1 December
Winners Announced: December 15
How: Drop off drawings with Julia (704) or Niki (706), use this Google form to submit stories.
Six Books to Add to Your Summer Reading List, Katharine 11/12s
It’s June now and we’re very close to the end of the school year, so instead of the usual character cabin, I decided to write about some books I recommend adding to your summer reading list. I will start with books I have read and then move to books I am interested in.
Books I Have Read
1. These Witches Won’t Burn
If you’ve been keeping up with The Character Cabin, then you know that for May I talked about the main character of These Witches Won’t Burn, by Hannah Walsh. I absolutely adore this book and think it is amazingly written. The characters and setting are so detailed, you will feel like you’re actually in the book.
2. Seraphina
Seraphina, along with Harry Potter was one of my first introductions to the Fantasy genre. What the book lacks in vocabulary, and reading level, it makes up with its fascinating plot and the well-detailed universe. I especially recommend this book for the summer, because although it has a great book, it isn’t as dense as some other books.
3. The Inheritance Games
The Inheritance Games came out earlier this year and is one of my favorite books. The story is a modern take on a murder mystery but has so much more. I have recommended this book to two people, both of whom have loved it. You will sympathize deeply with the main character, Avery, even as she is thrown into a world of wealth. In addition, you will be on the edge of your seat until the very end of the book.
Books I Am Reading
1. Shadow & Bone If you’ve been on Netflix recently, you might have noticed that they’ve released a show called Shadow & Bone. What you might not know is that this series is actually based on a book. I just started reading this book, and while I haven’t gotten far, I can say with full confidence that this book is a must-read. From the depth of the characters to the intricate world-building, the story is absolutely amazing.
Books I Have Not Yet Read
1. Sorcery of Thornes
While I haven’t read Sorcery of Thornes, I have had so many people recommend it to me. From what I have heard this book is a combination of my two favorite genres, Fantasy, and Mystery. When I was crafting my summer reading list, I had a lot of people recommend this book. A couple of days after getting a bunch of recommendations, I looked on Amazon and it was also recommended to me there.
2. A Good Girls Guide to Murder
As this is another book I haven’t read, I can’t say much as to how good A Good Girls Guide to Murder is. However, I’ve gotten very good reviews. Lydia, who recommended this book to me, describes the book as “A final high school project turned murder mystery.” Lydia was also the person who recommended These Witches Won’t Burn to me, so I have high hopes for this book.
Books I Have Read
1. These Witches Won’t Burn
If you’ve been keeping up with The Character Cabin, then you know that for May I talked about the main character of These Witches Won’t Burn, by Hannah Walsh. I absolutely adore this book and think it is amazingly written. The characters and setting are so detailed, you will feel like you’re actually in the book.
2. Seraphina
Seraphina, along with Harry Potter was one of my first introductions to the Fantasy genre. What the book lacks in vocabulary, and reading level, it makes up with its fascinating plot and the well-detailed universe. I especially recommend this book for the summer, because although it has a great book, it isn’t as dense as some other books.
3. The Inheritance Games
The Inheritance Games came out earlier this year and is one of my favorite books. The story is a modern take on a murder mystery but has so much more. I have recommended this book to two people, both of whom have loved it. You will sympathize deeply with the main character, Avery, even as she is thrown into a world of wealth. In addition, you will be on the edge of your seat until the very end of the book.
Books I Am Reading
1. Shadow & Bone If you’ve been on Netflix recently, you might have noticed that they’ve released a show called Shadow & Bone. What you might not know is that this series is actually based on a book. I just started reading this book, and while I haven’t gotten far, I can say with full confidence that this book is a must-read. From the depth of the characters to the intricate world-building, the story is absolutely amazing.
Books I Have Not Yet Read
1. Sorcery of Thornes
While I haven’t read Sorcery of Thornes, I have had so many people recommend it to me. From what I have heard this book is a combination of my two favorite genres, Fantasy, and Mystery. When I was crafting my summer reading list, I had a lot of people recommend this book. A couple of days after getting a bunch of recommendations, I looked on Amazon and it was also recommended to me there.
2. A Good Girls Guide to Murder
As this is another book I haven’t read, I can’t say much as to how good A Good Girls Guide to Murder is. However, I’ve gotten very good reviews. Lydia, who recommended this book to me, describes the book as “A final high school project turned murder mystery.” Lydia was also the person who recommended These Witches Won’t Burn to me, so I have high hopes for this book.
Character Cabin: Nova Artino, February 2021
Katharine 11/12s
Welcome to the February 2020 edition of The Character Cabin. If you choose to read this there will be spoilers. This month, our featured character is Nova Artino/Nightmare/Insomnia, The main heroine and villain of The Renegades series. In the Character Cabin, we will cover the lifeline, character traits, and overall story of our featured character.
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I would also like to say before starting this article, that my knowledge of this character is based on the first book only, I don’t have all of the information on this character and their development throughout the series.
First of all, who is Nova Artino? Nova Artino is the son of Nova and Tala Artino, and Niece of Ace Anarchy, or Alec Artino. She had one sister named Evie, who dies in the first chapter of the book along with her parents. After the death of her parents, Nova is taken in by her uncle and becomes one of the Anarchists, a group of villains who were in power during the Age of Anarchy. She was raised by them and shared a lot of their same values. That is all we know about Nova’s early life. Nova is of both Italian and Filipinx descent. Her mother identifying as Filipina and her father as Italian.
Although I haven’t read the whole series here is what I know about Nova’s character development so far. Nova starts out with a very rough personality. She is working for the anarchists, which means the Renegades are her sworn enemies, but is still unsure of her abilities. Throughout the book, she becomes good friends with Adrian Everhart and begins to think that the Renegades might not be so bad, but after a series of events, which take place at the very end of the book, she is more sure of her mission than ever.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s character cabin. I love this series and hope you will read it.
First of all, who is Nova Artino? Nova Artino is the son of Nova and Tala Artino, and Niece of Ace Anarchy, or Alec Artino. She had one sister named Evie, who dies in the first chapter of the book along with her parents. After the death of her parents, Nova is taken in by her uncle and becomes one of the Anarchists, a group of villains who were in power during the Age of Anarchy. She was raised by them and shared a lot of their same values. That is all we know about Nova’s early life. Nova is of both Italian and Filipinx descent. Her mother identifying as Filipina and her father as Italian.
Although I haven’t read the whole series here is what I know about Nova’s character development so far. Nova starts out with a very rough personality. She is working for the anarchists, which means the Renegades are her sworn enemies, but is still unsure of her abilities. Throughout the book, she becomes good friends with Adrian Everhart and begins to think that the Renegades might not be so bad, but after a series of events, which take place at the very end of the book, she is more sure of her mission than ever.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s character cabin. I love this series and hope you will read it.
Character Cabin: Seraphina, December 2020
Katharine 11/12s
Welcome back to month five (I think) of The Character Cabin! Each month, I will write a review and summary of a character. I will then explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers!
This week I will be taking a look at a book called Seraphina. This particular book is a little bit less well known than previous books I have done. This book is one of my new favorite books. I like this book because it is very detailed and has a very well built world. Today I will not be looking at the protagonist, Seraphina, but rather the antagonist, called Jannoula.
Jannoula is an intriguing character because she had a difficult past but you as the reader still don’t feel sympathy for her. Jannoula is something called an Itysaari. Itysaari are half-dragons, half-humans. Itysaari have powers that Jannoula uses to her advantage. Some of her powers include mind control, appearing as a saint (more on this later), and creating an invisible wall with her mind. To explain more about the last two, Jannoula has something called mind fire. Mind fire is basically what it sounds like. It is a fire of your mind. Based on your personality it looks different. Itysaari channel their Mind Fire to do all kinds of things such as talking to each other. All Itysaari minds are connected. Jannoula has channeled her Mind Fire so that humans can see a golden halo around her head, making her appear to be a saint. Like I said before all Itysaari minds are connected; Jannoula, when with other Itysaari can channel her mind fire to hook all of the minds creating a mental wall. This may seem unimportant, but for Jannoula this power allowed her to survive. She was imprisoned as a child and had to make her own way in the world. She was able to use her power to gain higher status and almost gained control of an entire region.
I find this character especially interesting because she doesn’t want peace for anyone but herself. She pulled strings on all sides of a war to make them all want to defeat each other. She wants to rule everyone and have the power to decide if people live or die. This is because of the struggle she endured as a child. She was so mad at everyone that “she wanted to see everything go up in flames” to quote Shadow Scale the sequel to Seraphina. If you want to learn more, read Seraphina by Rachel Hartman.
This week I will be taking a look at a book called Seraphina. This particular book is a little bit less well known than previous books I have done. This book is one of my new favorite books. I like this book because it is very detailed and has a very well built world. Today I will not be looking at the protagonist, Seraphina, but rather the antagonist, called Jannoula.
Jannoula is an intriguing character because she had a difficult past but you as the reader still don’t feel sympathy for her. Jannoula is something called an Itysaari. Itysaari are half-dragons, half-humans. Itysaari have powers that Jannoula uses to her advantage. Some of her powers include mind control, appearing as a saint (more on this later), and creating an invisible wall with her mind. To explain more about the last two, Jannoula has something called mind fire. Mind fire is basically what it sounds like. It is a fire of your mind. Based on your personality it looks different. Itysaari channel their Mind Fire to do all kinds of things such as talking to each other. All Itysaari minds are connected. Jannoula has channeled her Mind Fire so that humans can see a golden halo around her head, making her appear to be a saint. Like I said before all Itysaari minds are connected; Jannoula, when with other Itysaari can channel her mind fire to hook all of the minds creating a mental wall. This may seem unimportant, but for Jannoula this power allowed her to survive. She was imprisoned as a child and had to make her own way in the world. She was able to use her power to gain higher status and almost gained control of an entire region.
I find this character especially interesting because she doesn’t want peace for anyone but herself. She pulled strings on all sides of a war to make them all want to defeat each other. She wants to rule everyone and have the power to decide if people live or die. This is because of the struggle she endured as a child. She was so mad at everyone that “she wanted to see everything go up in flames” to quote Shadow Scale the sequel to Seraphina. If you want to learn more, read Seraphina by Rachel Hartman.
Character Cabin: Heidi, Katharine 11/12s
It’s been a little while since the last Character Cabin, but we’re back and better than ever. Each month, I will write a review and summary of a character. I will then explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers! Today we will be taking a look at one of the most iconic books ever, in my opinion. Heidi!
Heidi is one of my favorite characters of all time. She is a little girl who is forced to go live with her grandfather, an old man who lives in isolation far up in the Swiss Alps. The story follows her as she learns about the mountains and all of the beautiful things in it. However, just when it seems like nothing could go wrong, Heidi is taken off the mountains and down to the city of Frankfurt in Germany.
Heidi’s personality is very admirable. She is brave in the face of adversity, uses logic in tough situations, and almost always has a smile on her face. I especially love Heidi because she brings a smile to everyone’s faces, except for Mrs. Rottenmeir (but I will get back to that later).
As I said before, Heidi is sent to Frankfurt, Germany. There she meets Clara, who is chronically sick, Mrs. Rottenmier, who does not like Heidi at all, and Clara’s grandmother, who teaches Heidi how to read. Heidi starts sleepwalking in the city and is sent back to the mountains to improve her health. This, however, does not happen before she causes some trouble.
Heidi is one of my favorite characters of all time. She is a little girl who is forced to go live with her grandfather, an old man who lives in isolation far up in the Swiss Alps. The story follows her as she learns about the mountains and all of the beautiful things in it. However, just when it seems like nothing could go wrong, Heidi is taken off the mountains and down to the city of Frankfurt in Germany.
Heidi’s personality is very admirable. She is brave in the face of adversity, uses logic in tough situations, and almost always has a smile on her face. I especially love Heidi because she brings a smile to everyone’s faces, except for Mrs. Rottenmeir (but I will get back to that later).
As I said before, Heidi is sent to Frankfurt, Germany. There she meets Clara, who is chronically sick, Mrs. Rottenmier, who does not like Heidi at all, and Clara’s grandmother, who teaches Heidi how to read. Heidi starts sleepwalking in the city and is sent back to the mountains to improve her health. This, however, does not happen before she causes some trouble.
Exploration Into Drawing Creatures and Species from Imagination #3 , Liam 10/11s
Intricate Design of A Nightmarish Blob
This is the third part of this drawing exploration I have started. I call this particular creature Y.W.N. (Your Worst Nightmare), and when in front of a sentient being, it morphs into that being’s worst fear. This is a depiction of it when it is not in the presence of anyone.
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
This is the third part of this drawing exploration I have started. I call this particular creature Y.W.N. (Your Worst Nightmare), and when in front of a sentient being, it morphs into that being’s worst fear. This is a depiction of it when it is not in the presence of anyone.
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
Exploration Into Drawing Creatures and Species from Imagination #2 , Liam 10/11s
This is the second part of this drawing exploration I have started. I call this particular creature a Mechomoth. It was originally a peaceful creature, but engineering has changed it into an aggressive monster with no will of its own.
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
Exploration Into Drawing Creatures and Species from Imagination #1 , Liam 10/11s
Intricate Design of Fantasy Tripod
This is the first part of this drawing exploration I have started. I call this particular creature a Desert Trunk, a legendary creature of the sands. As for why there is a castle and a giant catapult on it’s back, I was just feeling bored.
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
This is the first part of this drawing exploration I have started. I call this particular creature a Desert Trunk, a legendary creature of the sands. As for why there is a castle and a giant catapult on it’s back, I was just feeling bored.
Sources: My Sketchbook and My Imagination :)
BOOM, Owen 11/12s
February Character Cabin:
Special Four-Part Edition!
Katharine 10/11s
Welcome back to month two of The Character Cabin! Each month, I will write a review and summary of a character. I will then explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers!
This week, I am doing a special four-part Little Women edition. I will write one paragraph describing each sister, in the book, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.
This week, I am doing a special four-part Little Women edition. I will write one paragraph describing each sister, in the book, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.
Left to Right: Amy, Beth, Jo, and Meg
Meg, the firstborn child of the March family, is a born leader. She wishes she had more luxuries, but in the end, she is happy. As the book goes on she becomes less and less of a girl and more and more of a woman. This is evident in the way she acts towards Jo, her younger sister. When Jo starts to goof off with Laurie, the March’s next-door neighbor, Meg gets annoyed and tells Jo off. This just goes to show that Meg has a bossy manner.
Jo is an “unusual girl” as some people might say. She doesn’t want to sit around and do nothing while other people are out making a living. Jo is also an aspiring writer who makes money off of short stories she writes for the newspaper. When forced to make calls around the neighborhood with her sister, Amy, Jo is determined to make trouble. When told to be calm, cool, and collected, Jo stands stock still and doesn’t talk. When told to gossip with the other girls, Jo tells stories about Amy, the youngest of the March girls. Jo is the heart of the family.
Beth is a shy, sentimental girl. She has many friends because of her quiet manner and because she is very hard working. Unfortunately, midway through the book, she gets Scarlet Fever, which is an infection that makes people have a red rash, and used to be deadly. Beth survives, however she is never herself again. She is frailer and not her old self. Beth has many qualities that I aspire to have, such as her work ethic, but I think that most importantly she is kind towards everyone around her.
Amy is the baby of the family and by far the most ambitious. Amy is a striving artist. At one point in the book, Amy is trying to find what kind of art she enjoys. Amy works as if the world is coming to an end, which shows that she is a very hard worker. She persevered through constant obstacles until she found her passion. Amy can be a brat towards her family, but in “polite society” she is very sweet and cordial.
If I had to choose one March sister to be stuck on a desert island with, I would choose Amy. Amy is the most resourceful. If I were to choose one sister to be friends with however it is Beth. I do connect to Amy the most though because she is the youngest, and I have seventeen older cousins, and I know what it is like to be the youngest.
Sources:
Little Women
Meg, the firstborn child of the March family, is a born leader. She wishes she had more luxuries, but in the end, she is happy. As the book goes on she becomes less and less of a girl and more and more of a woman. This is evident in the way she acts towards Jo, her younger sister. When Jo starts to goof off with Laurie, the March’s next-door neighbor, Meg gets annoyed and tells Jo off. This just goes to show that Meg has a bossy manner.
Jo is an “unusual girl” as some people might say. She doesn’t want to sit around and do nothing while other people are out making a living. Jo is also an aspiring writer who makes money off of short stories she writes for the newspaper. When forced to make calls around the neighborhood with her sister, Amy, Jo is determined to make trouble. When told to be calm, cool, and collected, Jo stands stock still and doesn’t talk. When told to gossip with the other girls, Jo tells stories about Amy, the youngest of the March girls. Jo is the heart of the family.
Beth is a shy, sentimental girl. She has many friends because of her quiet manner and because she is very hard working. Unfortunately, midway through the book, she gets Scarlet Fever, which is an infection that makes people have a red rash, and used to be deadly. Beth survives, however she is never herself again. She is frailer and not her old self. Beth has many qualities that I aspire to have, such as her work ethic, but I think that most importantly she is kind towards everyone around her.
Amy is the baby of the family and by far the most ambitious. Amy is a striving artist. At one point in the book, Amy is trying to find what kind of art she enjoys. Amy works as if the world is coming to an end, which shows that she is a very hard worker. She persevered through constant obstacles until she found her passion. Amy can be a brat towards her family, but in “polite society” she is very sweet and cordial.
If I had to choose one March sister to be stuck on a desert island with, I would choose Amy. Amy is the most resourceful. If I were to choose one sister to be friends with however it is Beth. I do connect to Amy the most though because she is the youngest, and I have seventeen older cousins, and I know what it is like to be the youngest.
Sources:
Little Women
Why Music Gets Stuck in Your Head
Gideon, 10/11s
Have you ever wondered why after listening to music, you can’t get it out of your head? Well you ́re about to find out! If you have a song in your head, it is actually called an “earworm”, it’s when a song plays in a cycle or in a loop. Scientists show that earworms happen a lot, and that they are very common, but why earworms happen is still a mystery.
You might think that just any song can get stuck in your head, but that’s usually not the case. The song that is the most likely to get stuck in your head is one that repeats a single line a lot, for example, “The Wheels on the bus,” or “Let It Be.” Those are some of the songs that can start the cycle of an earworm. One other reason this could happen is because you might have been listening to one song a lot, or the structure of the song is alike throughout the whole thing. You’ll most possibly get earworms when you are stressed or tired. Scientists who study this topic say that nine out of ten people told them that they experience earworms once a week, but only one out of four people told them that they experience earworms once a day.
Through the past years, many scientists have tried to learn about earworms. The reason it is very hard to study them is because they are very erratic, and it is hard to know when they’re coming. Most of the data and information that scientists get is from interviews and surveys. People like to share their experiences with the scientists, but the majority of the people can’t recall when they got earworms. Some scientists say that earworms could have something to do with how music changes and affects the part of the brain that controls movement, this is called the cerebellum. It is also said that when this happens, there is a lot of activity in that section of the brain. One of the most common things that cause earworms is when there is a small difference in pitch, or when there are longer notes. For example, if a song used an electric bass then a recorder, and then a bass again, that song would be pretty hard to get stuck in your head. Sometimes you don’t even know you have an earworm repeating in your head.
But scientists still don’t know why songs you don’t like, and songs that you don’t listen to very much, get stuck in your head.
You might think that just any song can get stuck in your head, but that’s usually not the case. The song that is the most likely to get stuck in your head is one that repeats a single line a lot, for example, “The Wheels on the bus,” or “Let It Be.” Those are some of the songs that can start the cycle of an earworm. One other reason this could happen is because you might have been listening to one song a lot, or the structure of the song is alike throughout the whole thing. You’ll most possibly get earworms when you are stressed or tired. Scientists who study this topic say that nine out of ten people told them that they experience earworms once a week, but only one out of four people told them that they experience earworms once a day.
Through the past years, many scientists have tried to learn about earworms. The reason it is very hard to study them is because they are very erratic, and it is hard to know when they’re coming. Most of the data and information that scientists get is from interviews and surveys. People like to share their experiences with the scientists, but the majority of the people can’t recall when they got earworms. Some scientists say that earworms could have something to do with how music changes and affects the part of the brain that controls movement, this is called the cerebellum. It is also said that when this happens, there is a lot of activity in that section of the brain. One of the most common things that cause earworms is when there is a small difference in pitch, or when there are longer notes. For example, if a song used an electric bass then a recorder, and then a bass again, that song would be pretty hard to get stuck in your head. Sometimes you don’t even know you have an earworm repeating in your head.
But scientists still don’t know why songs you don’t like, and songs that you don’t listen to very much, get stuck in your head.
The Character Cabin: January 2020
Katharine, 10/11s
Welcome to month one of The Character Cabin. Each month I will write a review, and summary, of a character. I will then explain parts of the book that highlight what I am trying to emphasize. If you choose to read this, know that there will be spoilers.
This week, our featured character is Katniss Everdeen, the one and only heroine of the Hunger Games Trilogy. In The Character Cabin we will cover the life line, character traits, and over all story of our featured character. |
The first thing we need to cover is: Who is Katniss Everdeen? Katniss Everdeen is a girl from Panem, District 12 (a.k.a. SEAM). At age 16 Katniss’s sister, Prim, is chosen to be a tribute for the annual Hunger Games. Katniss quickly volunteers to take Prim’s place, and doesn’t think much of it until the other tribute is chosen. Peeta Melark.
At age five Peeta watched Katniss sing at school. Then 6 years later when they were 11 Peeta gives Katniss bread that was supposed to go to the pig, officially giving him the nickname “the boy with the bread”. When Peeta is chosen, Katniss is stunned that someone in such a higher class than her could get chosen, and even more stunned that it was Peeta. 1 out of 1,000.
Upon arriving in the capital Katniss meets her designer Cinna. He tells her that he wants to set her on fire which doesn’t go over well with Katniss. Even though Katniss is scared she senses something different about Cinna. When Cinna tells Katniss that it is his first year being a designer, she immediately assumes he got stuck with district 12. Cinna tells Katniss that he chose district 12, forever changing their relationship. The girl on fire thing is a total success, and during the interview Peeta says something both helping and destroying Katniss. He says that he loves her. This helps her because it gives her sponsors. It destroys her because she doesn’t know what to do next.
Throughout the first book Katniss sorts through her feelings about the Capitol, Peeta, and the 12 year old tribute from district 11 Rue, who sadly dies after about a day of being with Katniss in the arena. When Katniss first sees Rue she is immediately drawn to her, because she has a look that she recognizes from her sister. Even though Rue and her sister look and act nothing alike Katniss wants to protect Rue.
Once the games have started, Katniss finds herself alone, not knowing what to do. After about a day by herself Katniss is found by the Careers, and gets trapped in a tree. The Careers are a group of tributes who train their whole lives for the Hunger Games. What’s strange about this encounter is that Peeta is with them. After awhile of stalling Katniss finally gets the Careers to make camp until morning. That night Katniss sees Rue in the tree across from her. Rue lets Katniss know that there is a Tracker-Jacker nest above her, leading to a series of events, which end with Rue’s tragic death. To find out the rest, you will have to read the Hunger Games.
After an announcement from Hunger Games announcer Claudius Templesmith that the rules have been changed to allow two people from the same district to work together, Katniss desperately searches for Peeta. She finds him in a cave where they spend a romantic few weeks heeling Peeta, and trying to contact their many sponsors.
Another thing we need to cover is Katniss’s character traits. After growing up almost her whole life starving, Katniss has deep hatred and hostility. She has to totally change this when she goes to the capital. After they win the Hunger Games, Katniss, and Peeta have to pretend to be madly in love to cover up what they did Pretending. To be madly in love with Peeta is going totally against who she is, until she realizes that maybe Peeta isn’t pretending. However, as soon as they get back to district 12 she goes back to her old hostile self. The book ends very abruptly, so read the books to find out.
Who else would you like to read about? Please send in suggestions for future weeks!
At age five Peeta watched Katniss sing at school. Then 6 years later when they were 11 Peeta gives Katniss bread that was supposed to go to the pig, officially giving him the nickname “the boy with the bread”. When Peeta is chosen, Katniss is stunned that someone in such a higher class than her could get chosen, and even more stunned that it was Peeta. 1 out of 1,000.
Upon arriving in the capital Katniss meets her designer Cinna. He tells her that he wants to set her on fire which doesn’t go over well with Katniss. Even though Katniss is scared she senses something different about Cinna. When Cinna tells Katniss that it is his first year being a designer, she immediately assumes he got stuck with district 12. Cinna tells Katniss that he chose district 12, forever changing their relationship. The girl on fire thing is a total success, and during the interview Peeta says something both helping and destroying Katniss. He says that he loves her. This helps her because it gives her sponsors. It destroys her because she doesn’t know what to do next.
Throughout the first book Katniss sorts through her feelings about the Capitol, Peeta, and the 12 year old tribute from district 11 Rue, who sadly dies after about a day of being with Katniss in the arena. When Katniss first sees Rue she is immediately drawn to her, because she has a look that she recognizes from her sister. Even though Rue and her sister look and act nothing alike Katniss wants to protect Rue.
Once the games have started, Katniss finds herself alone, not knowing what to do. After about a day by herself Katniss is found by the Careers, and gets trapped in a tree. The Careers are a group of tributes who train their whole lives for the Hunger Games. What’s strange about this encounter is that Peeta is with them. After awhile of stalling Katniss finally gets the Careers to make camp until morning. That night Katniss sees Rue in the tree across from her. Rue lets Katniss know that there is a Tracker-Jacker nest above her, leading to a series of events, which end with Rue’s tragic death. To find out the rest, you will have to read the Hunger Games.
After an announcement from Hunger Games announcer Claudius Templesmith that the rules have been changed to allow two people from the same district to work together, Katniss desperately searches for Peeta. She finds him in a cave where they spend a romantic few weeks heeling Peeta, and trying to contact their many sponsors.
Another thing we need to cover is Katniss’s character traits. After growing up almost her whole life starving, Katniss has deep hatred and hostility. She has to totally change this when she goes to the capital. After they win the Hunger Games, Katniss, and Peeta have to pretend to be madly in love to cover up what they did Pretending. To be madly in love with Peeta is going totally against who she is, until she realizes that maybe Peeta isn’t pretending. However, as soon as they get back to district 12 she goes back to her old hostile self. The book ends very abruptly, so read the books to find out.
Who else would you like to read about? Please send in suggestions for future weeks!
The History of Rock and Roll
Stefan and Ethan 10/11s
Caption: Above is a picture of The Beatles’ famous performance on the roof of the Apple Headquarters. Eventually, after they had played hits like Get Back, and Don’t Let Me Down, the Beatles were kicked out by the police.
In the 1950s, a new style of music called rock and roll became popular in the US. It was inspired by other styles of music, including blues and boogie-woogie. Rock stars, like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry became some of the most popular celebrities in the world. Rock and Roll was born. Throughout the decade Rock and Roll kept expanding.
In the 1960s, the classic rock era started. Bands and artists like the Beatles, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix became the new stars of the show. Other countries outside of the US started to catch the rock and roll fever. Rock and roll easily made itself the most popular music genre in the world. In the 1960s, the ‘British Invasion’ started. People started to listen to British bands, like the Who, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones. These bands took the center stage all over the world.
The 1970s introduced the world to hard rock, and bands like Queen and Led Zeppelin took the spotlight. The 1970s also saw the invention of heavy metal, with Black Sabbath’s hit song Ironman. A new style of rock and roll was born as the decade moved forward more and more people were listening to heavy metal and hard rock.
In the 1980s, hard rock remained the most dominant music genre in the world. The world was introduced to many bands that are still popular today, including AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and U2. Classic rock started to descend in popularity. Many people now preferred to listen to these hard rock bands.
The 1990’s brought a new feel to music. A new type of rock music called alternative rock. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters established themselves as the top rock bands in the world.
Now days, genres like pop and hip-hop are more popular; people say rock is dying. But it isn’t. Rock bands like Imagine Dragons, the Raconteurs, and Coldplay are hugely popular now. And people still listen to classics, like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and AC/DC. Rock is not dying. It it growing.
In the 1950s, a new style of music called rock and roll became popular in the US. It was inspired by other styles of music, including blues and boogie-woogie. Rock stars, like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry became some of the most popular celebrities in the world. Rock and Roll was born. Throughout the decade Rock and Roll kept expanding.
In the 1960s, the classic rock era started. Bands and artists like the Beatles, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix became the new stars of the show. Other countries outside of the US started to catch the rock and roll fever. Rock and roll easily made itself the most popular music genre in the world. In the 1960s, the ‘British Invasion’ started. People started to listen to British bands, like the Who, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones. These bands took the center stage all over the world.
The 1970s introduced the world to hard rock, and bands like Queen and Led Zeppelin took the spotlight. The 1970s also saw the invention of heavy metal, with Black Sabbath’s hit song Ironman. A new style of rock and roll was born as the decade moved forward more and more people were listening to heavy metal and hard rock.
In the 1980s, hard rock remained the most dominant music genre in the world. The world was introduced to many bands that are still popular today, including AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and U2. Classic rock started to descend in popularity. Many people now preferred to listen to these hard rock bands.
The 1990’s brought a new feel to music. A new type of rock music called alternative rock. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters established themselves as the top rock bands in the world.
Now days, genres like pop and hip-hop are more popular; people say rock is dying. But it isn’t. Rock bands like Imagine Dragons, the Raconteurs, and Coldplay are hugely popular now. And people still listen to classics, like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and AC/DC. Rock is not dying. It it growing.
Ask Lyle and Lucia: What happened to music?
Lyle and Lucia, 11/12s
Good question. Nowadays, mainstream music is losing its touch! The fact that Señorita once made it to number one on Billboards is offensive to music that actually has some sort of story/plot/meaning. Although alternative rock isn’t horrible, it’s not good either. We need to start appreciating good and actually talented artists that made or make powerful music. Artists such as David Bowie, Prince, Amy Winehouse, and Ana Tijoux need to be just as famous as Justin Bieber.
In the age of autotune, people don’t even need to be talented or work hard. You can just publish a song with a catchy beat, and boom! Number one. If you listen to Old Town Road by Lil Nas X, sure the beat is catchy, but what’s the point of it? Most songs by good artists have a point to the lyrics. For example, 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton is about how unfair some bosses can be to their workers, usually their workers who identify as women.
Still, it’s hard to not get any of these songs stuck in your head. My (Lucia’s) guilty pleasure is reggaeton. This genre of music is probably the worst one in terms of message. It’s misogynist and full of autotune. Yet I still really like it. The only way that I can listen to it without feeling bad is to listen to the few reggaeton songs made by female and feminist artists, like some songs by Ivy Queen. I suggest that if you can’t find any catchy songs that you support the message of, do some research. I promise you’ll find at least one artist that makes both catchy and valuable music.
Hakuna Matata,
Lucia and Lyle
In the age of autotune, people don’t even need to be talented or work hard. You can just publish a song with a catchy beat, and boom! Number one. If you listen to Old Town Road by Lil Nas X, sure the beat is catchy, but what’s the point of it? Most songs by good artists have a point to the lyrics. For example, 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton is about how unfair some bosses can be to their workers, usually their workers who identify as women.
Still, it’s hard to not get any of these songs stuck in your head. My (Lucia’s) guilty pleasure is reggaeton. This genre of music is probably the worst one in terms of message. It’s misogynist and full of autotune. Yet I still really like it. The only way that I can listen to it without feeling bad is to listen to the few reggaeton songs made by female and feminist artists, like some songs by Ivy Queen. I suggest that if you can’t find any catchy songs that you support the message of, do some research. I promise you’ll find at least one artist that makes both catchy and valuable music.
Hakuna Matata,
Lucia and Lyle
Album of the Week #3: DiCaprio 2, Alex 13/14s
Image Source: XXL Magazine, Genius, Dreamville Records
(Notice: all of the songs in this album include profanity, including the n-word)
In February 2017, Dreamville Records signed Destin Route Choice, or J.I.D, a 26 year-old up-and-coming rapper from East Atlanta. With a high, nasal voice and a jittery cadence, (hence the name) J.I.D is a black sheep compared to his Atlanta peers, as he himself notes. (I’m from East Atlanta like Gucci and Travis Porter/But my story is similar to the hare and the tortoise) J.I.D began rapping at only 19, after dropping out of college and moving in with fellow Atlanta natives EARTHGANG, with his first mixtape CakeWalk. Like the tortoise, J.I.D slowly built up his career, (in contrast to many of his fellow contemporaries) releasing two EPs and four mixtapes. Eventually, after befriending and touring with several Dreamville artists, including Bas, Lute, Cozz, and many more, he was signed and released his first studio album, The Never Story in 2017. After, J.I.D became a member of the 2018 XXL Freshman Class, sharing a cypher with Florida’s Ski Mask the Slump God. Most recently, the Freshman released his highest-profile, most polished album to date, DiCaprio 2.
The album is a meditation on fame and success, J.I.D’s childhood, love, substance abuse, and the future. Each song feels like a separate film, with production varying from classic Boom Bap drums, smooth R&B, to more modern Trap infused with unconventional percussion and soul samples. J.I.D delivers lyrical onslaughts on each of his songs, bringing hard-hitting, powerful punchlines, seamlessly switching cadences, (such as in the 2nd verse of “Mount it Up”and the first verse of “151 Rum”) often going into doubletime, (such as in “Off Deez,” with J. Cole, where both Dreamville rappers show their technical skill, spitting up to over eight syllables a second.) However, J.I.D does more than just flair his expertise. While there are the typical braggadocio tracks - “Off Deez,” featuring J. Cole, “Mount It Up,” “Hasta Luego,” and “Westbrook,” featuring A$AP Ferg - which are, without a doubt, all fantastic songs in their own right, the gems of the album are when J.I.D. finds himself at his most vulnerable and raw. My favorite track on the album is “Off Da Zoinkys,” an anti-drug anthem bolstered by a Crowns of Glory sample. J.I.D details his struggle with drugs, and also his helplessness at seeing substance swallow his peers: (Oh God no, where are my friends?) He later raps about the influence of cigarettes on his friends: (If he leave a pack of ports [Newport cigarettes] around me, I’ma take ‘em/and throw ‘em away/he smoke around me, I’ma break ‘em.) While metaphors and punchlines can be effective to reinforce songs, J.I.D uses them sparingly in his most powerful songs, as he notes in a Genius interview discussing “151 Rum,” (a discontinued Bacardi liquor) a song that touches on gang violence and his childhood:
“I was really trying to get the story out: I was trying to steer away from punchlines… I was trying to steer away from anything that could take away from the picture I was trying to paint. That’s why I was saying certain words that would make you feel like ‘Oh, I can see that.’ If you listen to the words, it’s more sad than it is ‘oh, we partying!’”
Another fantastic song is “Workin Out,” which is not about exercise. The song is almost a prayer, in which J.I.D expresses his dissatisfaction with success, how things still aren’t “working out” for him, and yet all his friends are doing well. However, he does show gratitude for how far he’s come on “Just Da Other Day.” The features on the album, including Method Man, Joey Bada$$, Ella Mai, and more, do compliment J.I.D, but often the features make for less powerful songs. The two exceptions, in my opinion, would be “Tiied,” where 6LACK, who has had a long collaborative history with J.I.D fits seamlessly into the track, and the lead single, “Off Deez,” where J. Cole and J.I.D are just having fun bullying oxygen. Besides those two tracks, J.I.D truly shines on his solo tracks, opening up to his insecurities and weaknesses. But by the closing track, “Despacito Too,” J.I.D regains his confidence, declaring that he can be whatever he wants to be. The song, which J.I.D dedicates to children, is an ode to to believing in oneself, with J.I.D. offering rebuttals to those in life who have doubted him. (They saying, what you wanna be, J.I.D? What you wanna be, kid?/A doctor, a lawyer, exploring the coral reef sh*t?/A football player, a track racer, I know you run fast/Oh, you gonna be a rapper, with your dumba*s?)
DiCaprio 2 is an incredibly personal and powerful album. J.I.D touches on intimate issues while still delivering fantastic performances, with creative cadences and clever rhyme schemes. It is a compound of genres and messages, compelling and listenable, a gem of modern hip-hop. I’d advise all rap enthusiasts to keep an eye on J.I.D.
(Notice: all of the songs in this album include profanity, including the n-word)
In February 2017, Dreamville Records signed Destin Route Choice, or J.I.D, a 26 year-old up-and-coming rapper from East Atlanta. With a high, nasal voice and a jittery cadence, (hence the name) J.I.D is a black sheep compared to his Atlanta peers, as he himself notes. (I’m from East Atlanta like Gucci and Travis Porter/But my story is similar to the hare and the tortoise) J.I.D began rapping at only 19, after dropping out of college and moving in with fellow Atlanta natives EARTHGANG, with his first mixtape CakeWalk. Like the tortoise, J.I.D slowly built up his career, (in contrast to many of his fellow contemporaries) releasing two EPs and four mixtapes. Eventually, after befriending and touring with several Dreamville artists, including Bas, Lute, Cozz, and many more, he was signed and released his first studio album, The Never Story in 2017. After, J.I.D became a member of the 2018 XXL Freshman Class, sharing a cypher with Florida’s Ski Mask the Slump God. Most recently, the Freshman released his highest-profile, most polished album to date, DiCaprio 2.
The album is a meditation on fame and success, J.I.D’s childhood, love, substance abuse, and the future. Each song feels like a separate film, with production varying from classic Boom Bap drums, smooth R&B, to more modern Trap infused with unconventional percussion and soul samples. J.I.D delivers lyrical onslaughts on each of his songs, bringing hard-hitting, powerful punchlines, seamlessly switching cadences, (such as in the 2nd verse of “Mount it Up”and the first verse of “151 Rum”) often going into doubletime, (such as in “Off Deez,” with J. Cole, where both Dreamville rappers show their technical skill, spitting up to over eight syllables a second.) However, J.I.D does more than just flair his expertise. While there are the typical braggadocio tracks - “Off Deez,” featuring J. Cole, “Mount It Up,” “Hasta Luego,” and “Westbrook,” featuring A$AP Ferg - which are, without a doubt, all fantastic songs in their own right, the gems of the album are when J.I.D. finds himself at his most vulnerable and raw. My favorite track on the album is “Off Da Zoinkys,” an anti-drug anthem bolstered by a Crowns of Glory sample. J.I.D details his struggle with drugs, and also his helplessness at seeing substance swallow his peers: (Oh God no, where are my friends?) He later raps about the influence of cigarettes on his friends: (If he leave a pack of ports [Newport cigarettes] around me, I’ma take ‘em/and throw ‘em away/he smoke around me, I’ma break ‘em.) While metaphors and punchlines can be effective to reinforce songs, J.I.D uses them sparingly in his most powerful songs, as he notes in a Genius interview discussing “151 Rum,” (a discontinued Bacardi liquor) a song that touches on gang violence and his childhood:
“I was really trying to get the story out: I was trying to steer away from punchlines… I was trying to steer away from anything that could take away from the picture I was trying to paint. That’s why I was saying certain words that would make you feel like ‘Oh, I can see that.’ If you listen to the words, it’s more sad than it is ‘oh, we partying!’”
Another fantastic song is “Workin Out,” which is not about exercise. The song is almost a prayer, in which J.I.D expresses his dissatisfaction with success, how things still aren’t “working out” for him, and yet all his friends are doing well. However, he does show gratitude for how far he’s come on “Just Da Other Day.” The features on the album, including Method Man, Joey Bada$$, Ella Mai, and more, do compliment J.I.D, but often the features make for less powerful songs. The two exceptions, in my opinion, would be “Tiied,” where 6LACK, who has had a long collaborative history with J.I.D fits seamlessly into the track, and the lead single, “Off Deez,” where J. Cole and J.I.D are just having fun bullying oxygen. Besides those two tracks, J.I.D truly shines on his solo tracks, opening up to his insecurities and weaknesses. But by the closing track, “Despacito Too,” J.I.D regains his confidence, declaring that he can be whatever he wants to be. The song, which J.I.D dedicates to children, is an ode to to believing in oneself, with J.I.D. offering rebuttals to those in life who have doubted him. (They saying, what you wanna be, J.I.D? What you wanna be, kid?/A doctor, a lawyer, exploring the coral reef sh*t?/A football player, a track racer, I know you run fast/Oh, you gonna be a rapper, with your dumba*s?)
DiCaprio 2 is an incredibly personal and powerful album. J.I.D touches on intimate issues while still delivering fantastic performances, with creative cadences and clever rhyme schemes. It is a compound of genres and messages, compelling and listenable, a gem of modern hip-hop. I’d advise all rap enthusiasts to keep an eye on J.I.D.