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26 Tuesday Mar 2024
Posted Poetry
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05 Friday Jan 2024
Posted Digital Books, Digital Discipleship
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Some preliminary thoughts
Digital books, or ebooks, should have notably transformed our communicative landscape, particularly about reading habits, information accessibility, and knowledge dissemination. However, the ebook revolution failed to deliver on some of its promises. Here are some pivotal aspects of this evolution:
In conclusion, while digital books could revolutionise information accessibility, reader engagement, and the dynamics of the publishing industry, this revolution has not materialised. Unfulfilled promises and market dynamics have stifled the potential transformation. However, it is crucial to recognise that this does not mark the end of the road for digital books but rather highlights areas for improvement and future development.
Potential Pathways for Realizing the Full Potential of Digital Books:
In essence, the journey of ebooks is still ongoing. While the initial promises of a digital book revolution may have fallen short, the future still holds immense potential. With strategic adjustments and a renewed focus on its unique capabilities, the digital book can still become a transformative force in the realm of reading, learning, and sharing knowledge. The key lies in embracing innovation, ensuring accessibility, and staying committed to the core promise of revolutionising how we engage with books.
31 Thursday Aug 2023
Posted Culture
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I love the imaginary worlds or universes of Star Trek, Middle-earth, DC & Marvel universes, the realms of the Wheel of Time, and the expanses of Stargate. In the expansive landscape of storytelling, the essence often transcends beyond the charisma or complexity of individual characters. It seeps into their worlds—worlds sculpted with creative imagination and narrative artistry. These worlds are not mere backdrops but intricate tapestries that contribute significantly to the overarching narrative. Whether it’s the scientifically advanced Federation stretching across the endless galaxies of Star Trek or the mythic realms steeped in the lore of Middle Earth, these settings are characters in their own right, interwoven deeply into the fabric of the stories they are a part of.
Our minds serve as the boundless canvas upon which the art of world-building comes to life. This form of creative endeavour is an exercise in unbridled imagination, a leap into the unfamiliar or even the impossible. Through world-building, creators can construct entire civilisations with their own rules, societal norms, ethical dilemmas, and unique ways of interacting with their environment. These realms offer us an escape chute, a momentary passage away from the trappings of our everyday life.
But the impact goes even further than escapism. These imagined worlds often serve as complex allegories or cautionary tales, reflecting aspects of our own society, culture, and human nature back at us. They can magnify our moral quandaries, explore ethical limits, and challenge our perceptions. In doing so, these worlds become venues for social commentary, introspection, and sometimes activism.
So when we talk about world-building, we’re delving into a discipline combining creative flair and philosophical depth. It’s not just the art of crafting new realms but the art and science of understanding what makes them meaningful. It echoes our aspirations for a better future, scrutinizes the complexities of diverse societies, and questions the very morals and beliefs we hold dear. In this manner, world-building is both an artistic venture and a profoundly thoughtful exercise in understanding the human condition.
Worlds of Fictional Universes
Worlds of Star Trek
Star Trek, the brainchild of Gene Roddenberry, has long been recognised not merely as a thrilling space adventure but as an embodiment of human aspirations for a harmonious and unified future. This vast universe, with its eclectic mix of species and civilisations—from the profound logic of the Vulcans to the intense passion of the Klingons—underscores a theme that is more important today than ever: “infinite diversity in its infinite variations”. Each planet, species, and story arc in the Star Trek universe is a distinct brushstroke painting, a mosaic of infinite possibilities and interactions. From its first television series, it has now diversified into numerous manifestations. The unflappable Mr. Spock, the logical Vulcan remains my favourite alien.
The Prime Directive’s cornerstone of this universe is a rule that magnifies the show’s deep commitment to mutual respect and non-intervention. It dictates non-interference with the evolutionary path of alien civilisations, no matter the circumstances. Yet, interwoven with these profound philosophies are lighter, more humorous aspects, like the somewhat tongue-in-cheek maxim: Always think twice before sending your captain on an away team! This unwritten rule hints at the countless dangerous and poignant predicaments that Starfleet captains inevitably stumble into.
Middle Earth
J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth, a realm echoing with the clang of swords and enchanting elvish songs, is a testament to heroism in all its forms. While monumental figures like Aragorn and Gandalf loom large, it’s often the smallest—like the humble Hobbits—that leave the most significant impact. Despite being overlooked by many, these unassuming folks, from Sam’s unwavering loyalty to Frodo’s quiet courage, play pivotal roles in determining the fate of Middle Earth. Their journeys challenge the conventional notion that only the mighty can be heroes.
Further, Tolkien doesn’t just captivate with tales of heroics but also imparts messages of undying hope. As captured by the ever-loyal Samwise Gamgee, “There is some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for,” a sentiment that resonates deeply, reminding us of the sparks of light even in overwhelming darkness.
DC and Marvel Universes
The sprawling canvas of the DC and Marvel universes forms an adrenaline-pumping arena where heroes and villains face off in epic duels, each with their staggering powers. These tales, while action-packed, carry a profound message echoed by Spiderman: “With great power comes great responsibility”. This isn’t just a commentary on superhero battles but a broader call to action. It’s an urge to wield our unique abilities, talents, and privileges wisely and ethically, always for the collective good. The moody, brooding Batman remains my favourite character in this universe.
Stargate Universe
The Stargate universe, expansive and mysterious, serves as a potent reminder of the illusions of power. While entities like the Goa’uld might masquerade as divine beings, the narrative pulls no punches in revealing the facade. The battles against these faux deities emphasise the importance of resisting oppression and the unending quest for truth, no matter how obscure it might be. The SG1 team was able to overcome impossible obstacles in 45 minutes.
The Wheel of Time universe
Diving into Robert Jordan’s intricate “Wheel of Time,” one is introduced to a reality where time moves in cycles, and destinies are eternally intertwined. Central to this is the Dragon, an entity reborn repeatedly, symbolising resilience, the cyclical nature of existence, and the eternal dance between forces of good and evil. This universe reminds us of the inevitability of challenges and the indomitable human spirit to rise repeatedly.
Other world-making series like Babylon 5 and Firefly universes are also worth exploring.
Benefits of World Building
World-building, the art of crafting intricate and vast fictional universes, offers many benefits beyond mere entertainment. When authors and creators breathe life into these vast landscapes, they endow us with more than just stories; they bestow lessons, inspirations, and reflections upon us.
In essence, world-building is a gift—a powerful tool that captivates our senses, moulds our thoughts, challenges our beliefs, and enriches our understanding of the complex tapestry of human existence.
Conclusion
In storytelling, world-building is not merely a device to captivate audiences but a cornerstone that exemplifies the limitless horizons of human creativity and imagination. From the scientifically advanced galaxies of Star Trek to the magical, age-old lands of Middle Earth, these vividly imagined worlds serve multiple purposes. They’re not just playgrounds for characters but intricate landscapes that hold up mirrors to our societies, offering poignant reflections and, sometimes, critiques. These worlds are fertile grounds for moral and philosophical explorations, providing invaluable lessons about unity, responsibility, bravery, and ethical conduct. Beyond escapist entertainment, they are educational platforms that challenge our preconceptions, inspire novel thought, and contribute to shaping a more informed, reflective worldview. Thus, in weaving these complex universes, creators aren’t just entertaining us; they’re engaging us in a dialogue that enriches our cognitive and emotional landscapes, making us active participants in a shared journey through the variegated narrative of human existence.
09 Wednesday Aug 2023
Posted Books and Reading
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I have discovered that after decades in academia, I have lost the art of slow reading. I will skim through books, scan through articles, notice facts and diagrams, and annotate digitally. I have become comfortable with that in today’s whirlwind era, where speed is synonymous with success, our everyday actions are always fast-forward. Efficiency has taken precedence, from gulping meals to rushing through emails and consuming books in speed-reading mode. However, in this haste, an essential essence gets lost. Friedrich Nietzsche’s words resonate deeply here: “It is not the reader, but the re-reader, who is the heart’s friend.” Let us delve into the forgotten and deeply enriching art of slow reading, exploring its numerous rewards.
Understanding Slow Reading
To understand slow reading, imagine relishing each bite of a gourmet meal. It isn’t just about moving at a turtle’s pace; it’s about a conscious, enriching immersion. Speed reading aims at consuming vast amounts of information quickly, but slow reading is about absorption and reflection. It isn’t about counting the pages you’ve covered but about soaking in the essence of each word and sentence. In Slow Reading, John Miedema notes, “Slow reading is a deliberate choice: It proceeds from a willingness to spend as much time as a book deserves.” We engage with the text in a dialogue rather than a monologue when we indulge in slow reading.
Slow reading offers:
Tips to Cultivate the Habit of Slow Reading
Overcoming the Challenges of Slow Reading
In an age where our calendars brim with tasks, slow reading may appear counterintuitive:
Conclusion
In the cacophony of our modern lives, the allure of skimming through tasks, including reading, is ever-present. However, immersing oneself deeper in literature transforms our comprehension of texts and offers a richer understanding of the world and ourselves. As you embark on your next reading journey, remember poet Wisława Szymborska’s words: “There’s nothing more, nothing better in life than to wake up and read, provided we have books.” Celebrate and luxuriate in the art of slow reading, a path to profound literary and personal discoveries.