monday morning musings, book recs, and today's tidbits
Hello. I hope your weekend was restful.
Today’s random tidbits:
-One of my favorite people on social media is Katie Merchant. She made a cookie box last year and I’m deeply inspired to recreate something similar.
-I wanted to share with you a list of some of my favorite books I’ve read this year sometime this week to give you some reading inspiration as we wrap up 2023. Currently, I’m reading On Women by Susan Sontag which explores the complexities and societal perceptions of womanhood, delving into the roles, expectations, and identities of women in culture and society.
-Next on my TBR is Eros The Bittersweet by Anne Carson which analyzes the concept of love, particularly in ancient Greek literature, exploring its paradoxical nature as both pleasurable and painful, and how it intertwines with the themes of knowledge, desire, and the boundaries of the self. I’ll be starting that today or tomorrow.
-I’ve been thinking deeply about 2024- not about “resolutions”, but rather, how I plan to live intentionally throughout the year instead of wandering mindlessly (Something I’ve caught myself doing a bit too frequently in 2023). I have admittedly thought a lot about very specific gOaLS I’ve set for myself and the importance (and power) of keeping these goals hush hush.
-I’m the Grinch this year and no matter how hard I try to snap out of it and get into the Christmas spirit, I always fall short. Sigh.
Let’s get into some articles and news, shall we?
-When Women Artists Choose Mothering Over Making Work
The myth surrounding Patti Smith's 16-year hiatus from the music scene encapsulates the complex relationship between motherhood and artistic identity. Smith's departure from her punk roots to embrace domestic life in the suburbs reflects a broader societal conflict, where the roles of mother and artist are often seen as mutually exclusive, a sentiment echoed in the struggles of other women artists. This narrative challenges the deeply ingrained societal binaries and expectations placed on women, particularly those in the creative fields, highlighting the ongoing debate about balancing personal life choices with professional artistic aspirations.
-Flamboyant as Ever, ’70s-Style Desserts Are Making a Comeback
The resurgence of extravagant 1970s-inspired desserts in New York City's contemporary culinary scene, led by chefs like Angie Mar and Joshua Pinsky, reflects a cultural shift towards embracing visual opulence and nostalgic indulgence. This trend, which revives classics like the Black Forest cake and pistachio Bundt in an ostentatious yet comforting style, caters to a modern palate that craves visual spectacle in dining experiences, merging culinary artistry with a yearning for the lavish and theatrical elements of past eras.
I’m quite obsessed with this.
-American Teenagers on Mental Health and How to Cope
Being a teenager in the U.S. in 2023 presents a unique blend of age-old challenges and modern stressors, intertwining traditional aspects of adolescence with the complexities of a digitally dominated and politically divisive era. This generation faces not only the conventional trials of growing up but also navigates a landscape reshaped by social media, online education, and heightened societal pressures, resulting in a significantly altered and often more challenging experience of teenage life.
Duh…
Imagine being a teen in 2023? These kids need so much more support, resources, guidance, etc and it’s sad because no one knows how to help them.
The name of this article was too fitting to leave out of this newsletter :)
Although I will say, none of the colors in this article encompass my vision for the color of milk tea. My milk tea is a creamy beige. It’s warm and soft and tender. I wish coffee with milk library rolled off the tongue the way milk tea library does. Sometimes I prefer coffee to tea. What about you? What’s your drink of choice?
Jesse Armstrong's journey as the creator of "Succession" reflects the nuanced complexities of storytelling in today's television landscape, where the balance between personal anxieties and the creative process is constantly navigated. His approach to ending the critically acclaimed series encapsulates a blend of meticulous planning and spontaneous creativity, showcasing his ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences while exploring themes of power, family dynamics, and the corrupting influence of wealth. This narrative captures the essence of modern TV drama creation, where the expectations and pressures are high, and the storytelling is deeply reflective of societal undercurrents.
-A Host of Possibilities With Laila Gohar
The creative ethos of a New York chef and artist, who cherishes nontraditional celebrations and integrates her passion for food into unique installations, reflects a deep connection to her cultural roots and a commitment to sustainability. Her approach to entertaining, influenced by her upbringing in a diverse Cairo community and her work in food-based art installations, emphasizes the importance of flexibility, generosity, and simplicity in both hosting and culinary creations, while fostering a warm and inclusive environment for her son and guests alike.
If I had a million dollars, my entire home aesthetic would be Gohar World.
-An Alternative to the Girl Scouts Is Gaining Fans in US Cities
Radical Monarchs, emerging as a vibrant alternative to the traditional Girl Scouts, offers a unique space for Black, Brown, and nonbinary children to engage in social justice and personal empowerment. Founded in 2014, it enriches its members with knowledge of history and social issues, equipping them with skills like self-defense and consent, and emphasizing solution-oriented approaches to social challenges. The organization's growth and impact, while facing challenges and opposition, highlight a significant shift in empowering young girls and nonbinary youth through education and activism, fostering a sense of hope and community.
Where was this when I was a teen?
-When I Feel Too Happy, It Terrifies Me
The concept of cherophobia, a fear of happiness, is a profound psychological phenomenon where joy triggers anxiety, as exemplified in personal experiences of anticipating negative outcomes following positive events. This condition, while not classified as a mental illness, manifests in various forms, from superstitions like avoiding the "Evil Eye" to ingrained behaviors of self-sabotage and perfectionism. It reflects deeper issues related to childhood experiences, cultural beliefs, and psychological patterns, requiring a multifaceted approach for understanding and addressing the underlying causes and promoting a healthier relationship with happiness.
I feel this on a deep visceral level.
-Billie Eilish on Coming Out: “Wasn't It Obvious?”
Billie Eilish's unintentional public acknowledgment of her physical attraction to women highlights the complexities and nuances of sexual identity in the public eye. Her candid remarks, originally not intended as a formal coming-out statement, reflect a desire for a world where one's sexuality needn't be explicitly labeled or scrutinized. Eilish's experience underscores the ongoing conversation about privacy, authenticity, and the often-unwarranted public entitlement to personal details of celebrities' lives, especially regarding their sexuality.
She doesn’t owe anyone anything. The nuance of sexuality is still an enigma to me.
-In Search Of Rory’s Connecticut
The "Authentic Gilmore Girls Getaway Experience" at the Delamar Hotel in West Hartford offers fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of the beloved TV show, "Gilmore Girls." From luxury airport pickups to room-service coffee from Luke's Diner mugs, the package cleverly incorporates elements of the show, satisfying both die-hard fans and casual viewers. The experience, which also includes indulgent activities like massages and afternoon teas, cleverly intertwines the essence of the show's characters with real-life luxury, making it more than just a fan tribute but an enjoyable retreat in its own right.
I’ll pass on this one, but I can see how this would be a dream for GG stans.
-It’s Okay To Suck When You Try Something New
The article reflects on the author's journey of embracing imperfection in various hobbies, despite an initial tendency to abandon activities at the first sign of failure. The key message is the importance of enjoying the process of learning and engaging in activities for their intrinsic joy, rather than for perfection or external validation. Experts like Thomas Curran and Karen Rinaldi emphasize that sucking at something initially is a natural part of learning and that adults, unlike children, often face societal pressures to excel, which can hinder the enjoyment of new pursuits. The concept of a growth mindset is introduced, encouraging the celebration of small improvements and the understanding that skills can develop over time. Ultimately, the article encourages readers to embrace challenges and the inherent satisfaction in progress, fostering a more forgiving and joyful approach to hobbies and interests.
-Your Prenup With New York City
This creative piece humorously outlines an imaginary agreement between "New York City" and a "Young Person Without Any Assets." It playfully juxtaposes the cultural and lifestyle offerings of New York City, like its vibrant cultural scene, extensive subway system, and renowned hospitals, against the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by an individual living in the city, such as acquiring significant debt, learning to drive in their forties, and longing for the city's unique experiences after moving away. The agreement highlights the trade-offs between the city's allure and the practicalities of living there, encapsulating the love-hate relationship many have with urban life in a whimsical and satirical manner.
I love to hate and hate to love being a New Yorker.
Okay, that’s all for now. I’ll see you tomorrow.
I’m very excited to have a community Discord with you where we can talk about these articles in depth.
Bye <3
