Death is a Lonely Business

I'm currently reading Ray Bradbury's novel "Death is a Lonely Business". It is absolutely wonderful, and legit scary in certain parts. I think what I like most about Bradbury's writing is how creates mood. As I'm reading his words, I can feel shutters go down my back when I'm startled. I can hear the rain pounding against the window, even while it is a clear evening.

I think I agree with his official biographer Sam Weller, in that Bradbury maybe the greatest American wordsmith of the 20th century. Even more so than Hemingway and Fitzgerald. Bradbury takes their style and adds a sense of familiarity and yearning for your youth. It's stunning really.

New Music from Andrew Bird

Over the past two years, I've become a fan of Andrew Bird. I love how he incorporates violin music into the indie/alternative genre. The music is poetic, fascinating, melodic, and thoughtful. About a week ago, he released a new album "My Finest Work", and it is officially my favorite album of 2019. It's stunning!!

Zach Snyder and the DCEU

I am a life long DC comics fan. As far back as I can remember, I've loved and followed the adventures of Superman, Batman and Robin, The Flash, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and many others. So when a shared DC film universe was announced in 2012, I was beyond excited. Especially since it was announced that a new Superman movie would kick the universe off.

Seven years later, its a safe bet to say that this cinematic universe has had some ups and downs. I love some of the films, while others are just meh. The films that are directed by Snyder are my meh films, while the ones he is not directly involved with are my favorites. For my tastes, Snyder is too dark, and too inspired by Alan Moore and Frank Miller, whom are not my favorite comic writers.

Needless to say, I've always been interested in why Snyder made certain cinematic choices that he did with his films. Well this past week, I received some answers to those questions. After reading his logic behind his decision making, I more so cannot help but disagree with him.

Here's an article that does a much better job than I describing the situation and presenting a counter argument. One day, I think I'll write a more in-depth piece about why I disagree, but right now I'm having a difficult time formulating my thoughts.

But this article is an excellent jumping off piece.

Palaces for the People

Last week, 99% Invisible published an episode entitled: "Palaces for the People", and it features an extensive interview between host Roman Mars and Eric Klinenberg. Quite honestly, it is one of the most fascinating interviews I've listened to in years.

Klinenberg is the author of the book: " Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life. If you believe in the importance of libraries, public spaces, public parks, and how these spaces can improve the overall quality of life in a specific community, then this is something you need to listen to right now!

I don't want to go into further details, please do yourself a favor, and listen to it right now. I fore one felt inspired and motivated after I listened to it. I hope that you will feel the same way.

Listen here