Lmst

Explore 75 years of American transformation — from booming optimism to cultural crisis — with The Turn: https://www.djoinerbooks.com/the-turn-by-dennis-joiner/

#TheTurn #DennisJoiner #AmericanHistory #SocialChange #CulturalAnalysis #MustRead

In a world where the answer to the question “What do Led Zeppelin and Warrant have in common?” is “They both have songs where pastry stands in for the female genitalia,” the high-concept ambiguity of Annihilator’s “Knight Jumps Queen” is a welcome breath of fresh air.
#Annihilator #KnightJumpsQueen #MetalAnalysis #RockWriting #MusicCriticism #MusicWriting #HeavyMetal #CulturalAnalysis #RockCriticism
https://pablohoneyfish.wordpress.com/2025/10/22/the-erotic-endgame-annihilators-knight-jumps-queen/

A brief study of egotheism: Whitman’s cosmic “I” versus Taproot’s therapeutic self.
#Whitman #Taproot #LiteraryCriticism #Egotheism #CulturalAnalysis #Poetry #MusicCriticism #AmericanCulture #Selfhood #NuMetal
https://pablohoneyfish.wordpress.com/2025/10/16/whitmans-multitudes-and-taproots-isolation-a-study-in-modern-egotheism/

If nothing else, Miranda Cosgrove’s “Party Girl” (2009) truly drives home how ahead of his time Prince was.
#Prince #1999 #PopCulture #MusicCriticism #Nostalgia #CulturalAnalysis #MirandaCosgrove #PopMusic #MusicWriting
https://pablohoneyfish.wordpress.com/2025/10/13/recycling-the-apocalypse-from-princes-1999-to-miranda-cosgroves-party-girl/

When your favorite death metal track accidentally stumbles into philosophy class. God needs Satan, Batman needs the Joker, and belief might just be the best brand war ever run.
#MetalPhilosophy #Deicide #GodVsSatan #TheologyUnplugged #MythMaking #ReligiousCritique #DeathMetalDeepDive #CulturalAnalysis #SymbiosisInMyth #DevilsDue
https://pablohoneyfish.wordpress.com/2025/09/08/deicides-homage-to-the-god-satan-binary/

📚 New Publications Alert!

We’re excited to share several recent publications by scholars from our institute!

#Anthropology #FolkloreStudies #EnvironmentaHumanities #OpenAccess #STS #CulturalAnalysis #GoetheUniversity

A Nice Girl Like You is a “sex comedy” that’s terrified of sex and allergic to comedy. Lucy Hale inserts Ben Wa balls, fireworks go off, and nobody comes.
#FilmCriticism #SexComedy #LucyHale #CinemaFail #MovieReview #Satire #FilmTwitter #Critique #AmericanCinema #CulturalAnalysis
https://ninetypercentcrapmoviereviews.wordpress.com/2022/11/09/a-nice-girl-like-you/

Evening reminder: Episode 30 drops tomorrow, examining the intersection of aesthetic resistance and political anxiety in July 2025.

For those interested in thoughtful analysis of our current cultural moment, previous episodes provide essential context.

Cross-instance discussion welcomed.

#Episode30 #AestheticResistance #CulturalAnalysis

What’s the best book of 2025? Zara Chowdhary’s The Lucky Ones might just steal your heart and mind. Dive into our review! #BestBooks2025 #BookReviews #LiteraryTrends #CulturalAnalysis #OngoingNow24

https://ongoingnow24.com/zara-chowdharys-the-lucky-ones-ignites-minds/

Ah, the Northern ACHé, truly the tragic heroes of our modern age—losing their dance moves and lullabies while we struggle to activate #JavaScript 🤔. Because nothing says 'deep cultural analysis' like a 404 error page. 🕺🎵💻
https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(25)00447-6 #NorthernAche #TragicHeroes #CulturalAnalysis #DanceMoves #404Error #HackerNews #ngated

📚 “The Future of Cultural Analysis: A Critical Inquiry” edited by Murat Aydemir, Aylin Kuryel, and Noa Roei explores cultural analysis as a dynamic practice. It redefines object-centered critique and addresses sociopolitical impact through innovative methodologies. #openaccess #CulturalAnalysis

The Future of Cultural Analysi...

📚 “The Future of Cultural Analysis: A Critical Inquiry” edited by Murat Aydemir, Aylin Kuryel, and Noa Roei explores cultural analysis as a dynamic practice. Featuring interdisciplinary insights, it redefines object-centered critique and addresses sociopolitical impact through innovative methodologies.

https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/9789048559800/html
#openaccess
#CulturalAnalysis #CriticalInquiry #InterdisciplinaryResearch

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 003

Earth : 2025 : Day 003

I have made a most unfortunate discovery as I increase my knowledge of Earth and its inhabitants. The vast majority of humans I have encountered since arriving here have experienced only 30 or fewer revolutions around their radiant star. They seem very unprepared and lacking in, well, almost everything that humans who have completed 30 or more revolutions around their radiant star possess. Yet both those who possess dwelling structures and those who have chosen instead to procure something called “avocado toast” are equally upset and have opposing viewpoints regarding something incredibly important that I personally fear may pose a danger to the safety of the universe. I am grateful for stumbling upon an information terminal called Fox News so that I could be enlightened on this topic.

From the reconnaissance I have collected and observed, I have identified that leaders of the Red, White, and Blue’s people are fearful of a competing faction named “China.” I have also discovered that the Red, White, and Blue organization, where I have set up my home base, is called “America.” These terms and the series of events will require further research, as this particular term seems to apply not only to the faction itself but also to a geographical location that includes many other factions which also claim to be America, yet somehow they are not part of America, and the people are not considered “American.”

This “China” will also require further research and scrutiny, as I am very perplexed by its apparent namesake obsession with delicate vessels the humans use to consume sustenance. There is also the question of why an America with a potential identity crisis feels the need to ban something as specific to the universe as the sound time makes! I was truly confused until I was helped by that information terminal.

I have concluded, America’s concern is valid. It is very apparent that China has developed an insidious covert weapon related to time. So far in my research, every clock device I have personally encountered and examined has been assembled by this China, and they all indeed make the sound: tick-tock.

Addendum: Further research is required regarding gender and how the concept is expressed in human communication. The Fox information terminal provided guidance on the nomenclature of this gender concept, yet it seemed contradictory as the dignitary of the China faction kept being referred to as “she.”

#alienPerspective #cosmicHumor #cosmicObservations #culturalAnalysis #culturalCritique #extraterrestrialSatire #humanBehaviorCritique #humanNature #humorousCommentary #intergalacticCommentary #interstellarSatire #JimmyCarter #MarkTwainSatire #MarkTwainStyle #observationalHumor #philosophicalSatire #satiricalExploration #satiricalTravelogue #socialCommentary #socialSatire #spaceTravelHumor #Writings

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 002

Earth : 2025 : Day 002

Today, I achieved a research milestone in this peculiar world that humans call Earth. I discovered that there is indeed a system for acquiring nourishment, but it operates through a curious token based barter system called “money”.

Upon further inspection of my travel package, I realized it includes both instructions and a communication device that was left at my residence that is proving to be most helpful in understanding my surroundings. However, I am having to transcribe these characters carefully, as my translator is having difficulties. My stipend appears to be accessible through flat rectangles with representations of structures and sustenance on them called “debt cards” and “gift cards.”

When I chose the expedition package for touring Earth, I opted for the travel package most similar to what humans on this planet appear to favor; it is called “working class.” The package did come with warnings, however, once my initial stipend of tokens is depleted, I will have no choice but to rely on the goodwill of my neighbors or secure something called a “job.”

I could have had different accessories and activities had I chosen a different package. Evidently, life on Earth is a completely different experience if I had chosen a package that included a rectangle called an “apple”. It includes something called blue bubbles that evidently indicate social status within human hierarchy. I ended up deciding to choose the package that included a rectangular item called an android. It seems to malfunction somewhat frequently. Whether this is due to design or user error will require further research.

This “job” that I must find is evidently the means by which humans obtain more money and gift cards for trading necessities. So far, the most important things for my survival here appear to be a job, money, and gift cards.

The instructions seem very vague, unclear, and somewhat contradictory, as they explain it would prove difficult to obtain a job since I am what is called an undocumented resident. Yet the instructions also advise not to necessarily share that information with my neighbors.

I find this an oddly inefficient system for welcoming newcomers. Neither of the options presented, relying on neighbors or procuring a “job,” seem immediately attainable to me. I do not know my neighbors, and even if I did, I could not tell them why I cannot get this thing called a “job.” Still, I am intrigued, for it seems to hold the key to sustaining life on Earth. I wonder what it looks like.

While I do not yet know any humans personally, I do know where humans gather. Tomorrow, I plan to visit the green area nestled within the gray composite material. The humans who camp there appear to live a most pleasurable existence, enjoying the great outdoors without apparent concern, some drinking that liquid and calling out. Perhaps they have jobs! That makes perfect sense! Of course, they will have insights into how one might obtain a job. They can spend so much time there because they have acquired jobs.

One curious observation puzzles me. The humans who camp outside do not share the same features as those who move purposefully between transport vessels and structures. Nor do they resemble Jimmy Carter, or at least how he was presented him from the images I had seen previously. Yet the campers and the time advanced Jimmy Carter I saw when I arrived at the information station do share a certain similarity, a quality absent in the hurried humans moving about. They seem to be reducing in energy over time. This must be related to their jobs. Is the purpose of humanity to procure a job and then begin the process of decomposition? That hardly seems likely… does it?

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 001

Earth : 2025 : Day 001

It is day one of my arrival on Earth, and I am eager to document the peculiarities of its local inhabitants. My initial purpose for visiting was a combination of pleasure and research. However, I have also been presented with an opportunity to pay my respects to a human I regard as a friend of the universe. Though I never had the privilege of meeting this human, I am saddened by the missed opportunity. Still, I am grateful to visit during a time when this planet appears focused on his life and legacy. My journey here was inspired by a beautiful message of hope I discovered within a travel advertisement for Earth:

“This is a present from a small distant world, a token of our sounds, our science, our images, our music, our thoughts, and our feelings. We are attempting to survive our time so we may live into yours. We hope someday, having solved the problems we face, to join a community of galactic civilizations. This record represents our hope and our determination and our goodwill in a vast and awesome universe.”

Yet, the shortcomings of this human species have not gone unnoticed. My arrival began in the planet’s stratosphere, where I hitched a ride on an Earth transport vessel identified as Delta 991. The journey offered fascinating insights. The incessant crying (and reaction of others) of the smallest Earthlings aboard signaled that this species is perhaps not as advanced or prepared for galactic unity as their hopeful message suggested. After all, their home planet has completed nearly 48 revolutions around its radiant star since that message was first dispatched. Still, I remain optimistic about witnessing progress in their evolution.

The transport vessel’s disembarkation process revealed other curiosities. Humans appear highly territorial about their personal spaces, and their aggression when exiting the craft suggests potential challenges in integrating with galactic neighbors.

Upon setting foot on solid ground, I was drawn to an information station where I recognized images of the human who conveyed the aforementioned message, Jimmy Carter. Surprisingly, the visual depictions of him received from Earth’s probes in the solar system do not fully match his current appearance. Time, it seems, alters humans in profound ways, a phenomenon I intend to study further.

Carter’s message, though poetic, hinted at significant challenges and dangers on this planet. These issues may extend beyond the minor tensions observed aboard the transport vessel. I regret not meeting this individual, for his words encapsulate a universal desire. However, I remain puzzled by the Earthlings’ choice to disclose such vulnerabilities in what amounts to a galactic travel brochure. Nonetheless, kudos to him for honesty and for setting expectations for my vacation.

The expedition itinerary does appear promising. However, my initial explorations introduced unforeseen challenges. Shortly after leaving the transport nexus, I encountered respiratory distress, likely related to the atmospheric quality. I observed many humans inhaling from small fire sticks, perhaps medicinal devices for those suffering similar ailments. Their usage warrants further investigation.

The travel advertisement mentioned opportunities to witness Earth’s geographic marvels and to spend time beneath the stars, a notion that reminds me of home. Yet, for now, my chosen base overlooks a curated green space surrounded by vast gray composites. Within this green expanse, I noticed temporary human encampments. The occupants appear dedicated to their activities, braving temperatures cooler than 278.71 K (or 22°F in local terms) while seemingly fasting intermittent unpredictable times and at times exhibiting altered states of consciousness after consuming liquids. Could this be a religious observance or a ritual honoring a deity? Additional research is necessary.

Warnings about aggressive inhabitants from various factions were also included in my intelligence brief. These factions can often be identified by their distinctive calls and appearances. I am relieved to have packed my human repellent spray. Initially, I had prepared for encounters with a predator called Ursus, but updated intelligence suggested they are no longer apex predators, at least relative to the humans species.

Finally, I noted the prevalence of tall poles adorned with colorful fabric, a seemingly significant symbol. I deduced that I have landed in a territory marked red, white, and blue. Encouragingly, this appears to align with the region Jimmy Carter inhabited, which suggests it is Earth’s most welcoming zone for outsiders. After all, why extend an interstellar invitation if not from a place of warmth and openness?

As I close my first day observations, I am experiencing an unfamiliar sensation, hunger. My usual state of being does not include such needs, but I trust humans have systems in place to address these basic requirements. Perhaps this explains the communal efforts of the green expanse ‘dwellers’ or ‘campers’. I may have confused this with ‘homeless’, but I will refine my understanding of human language and social systems during my stay. For now, I rest, eager to continue exploring tomorrow. I hope to grasp the full nuances of this civilization or perhaps, more fittingly, this habitat of humanity.

Gentle Delight:
A Vancouver Swifties Song

A seasonal anthem to the empathy and
strength of all the swifties out there.

SEE ALSO
Heliox Podcast S2 E7 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2405788/episodes/16198890

A profound meditation on human connection,
______________________________
http://tinyurl.com/stonefolksongs

#Swifties #Empathy #Vancouver #CanadaPlace #ErasTour #TaylorSwift #CulturalAnalysis #HumanConnection #SocialScience #Song #Music #MusicVideo

https://youtu.be/VIEy1qVeHnc

#AcademicJob

#Postdoc in an in #ERC Starting project ARTIVES

"[which] aims to explore how imaginaries of urban diversity are portrayed by Afro-European authors in Lisbon and Rotterdam in their films, theatre plays, and (oral) literature."

@ Leiden University Centre for the Arts in Society

Deadline: 26/10/2023

https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/148926

#CulturalAnalysis #CulturalAnthropology #VisualAnthropology #VisualArts #VisualCulture #Anthropology #HorizonEurope #Leiden #LeidenUniversity #ARTIVES

wow, i was totally blown away by this excellent video analysing the myth of heroic masculine purpose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKdT_d-_vYs

this is feminist praxis for real. it's a man talking to fellow men about the ways that they are shaped by culture, and looking at whether these stories actually serve them.

the video didn't get into it, but if you take a purely materialist analysis ("who benefits and who pays from x idea being in someone's head"), then the myth of masculine purpose benefits the army, the corporation, the state, the powerful.

the army very much benefits if a man "commits himself to a purpose and pushes himself beyond his limits in pursuit of that purpose." that's a dream soldier, is what that is. that's making a person into a literal tool.

anyway, i can go on and on about this, especially since this isn't a heroic fantasy that i grew up with. when i was little, i'd see these kinds of superhero stories and like, i knew that i would probably never be super strong or tough or could fight people physically, so the stories were sort of irrelevent to me. although i do know women who find superhero stories resonant, i just didn't see what it had to do with me. i'm not a fighter, i'm a lover! 😆

there was a certain moment when i realized that for many little boys, they probably imagine *themselves* in the shoes of the superhero or whatever. then when i saw elon wearing an iron man suit, i realized that this fantasy still very much lives within many, many men. it gave me a shudder. so i'm glad that there's high quality media being put out that helps men understand this fantasy.

while i never idolized a superhero, there were action characters from pop culture that i idolized & looked up to. probably the most notable one for me was sarah conner from terminator 2, specifically. man, i thought she was cool. she was small, but she had used her time in captivity to become strong in her own way. the way they showed her escaping prison, it was something that i could imagine myself doing, not like the stuff that superheroes do. she's also so haunted and is wound a little tight...because some messed up stuff has happened to her! so yea, i identified with all that lol. even as a kid.

#culture #media #CulturalAnthropology #stories #narrative #tropes #masculinity #feminism #CulturalAnalysis #CulturalStudies #MediaStudies #VisualCulture

The cost of _Lyric Shame_, granted not a new #book, keeps going up for some probably bad reason, but Harvard U Press is having a 30% sale until the end of December if you plug in HOL22 at checkout. So - buy _Lyric Shame_, now only.... 40 bucks! :/. #poetry #lyric #theory #reading #shame #poetics #BernadetteMayer #AnneSexton #ElizabethBishop #Litcrit #historical #culturalanalysis
https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674734395

https://archive.org/details/jazz-funeral-for-uncle-tom

A Jazz Funeral for Uncle Tom by Harmony Holiday

Topics #artwriting, #prose, #poetry, #jazzfuneral, #jazzfunerals, #jazz, #Blackhistory, #musicalhistory, #historyofmusic, #ritual, #visualculture, #antiblackness, #culturalanalysis

Championing the tenderest of homicidal tendencies, a penchant for mercy killings and redemptive rites of passage, A Jazz Funeral for Uncle Tom is exactly what it announces it is, a book as dynamic and eternal event wherein a feminine voice leads her band of improvisers in a procession of joyous interrogation and forgiveness. This ritural is simultaneously a purging of any cowardly impulses in the speaker and in the culture she addresses and speaks as, and a releasing or banishing of unfit archetypes, readying the landscape for fresh forces by torching the weakest links in the prevailing mythos.

#CulturalAnalysis

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