More George Orwell Essays

Credit: www.amazon.com

Earlier this year, I read an excellent anthology of essays by the legendary writer George Orwell. The title of the anthology that I read was: Books Vs. Cigarettes. The collection contained Orwell's thoughts on literature, is there such of thing as having too many books, and second hand bookstores. It was my first time reading his essays, and I must say I really enjoyed it. Though I didn't always agree with his conclusions, I loved reading his logic behind his conclusions, and the volume got me thinking on a great many things.

So I while I was Christmas shopping over the Thanksgiving weekend, I found another volume of Orwell's essay writing entitled: All Art is Propaganda. It is a larger anthology of his essay writing, and it appears to cover a wide range of topics. But the item that really caught my attention was the cover. I love cover artwork. It's really an eye grabbing, and it aided me in my decision to buy the volume. So for now at least, Orwell is correct. Art is Propaganda. Art is what made me buy his critical essay, or what some may say, his propaganda. A little self fulfilling maybe...

I cannot wait to start reading it. 

Falling Behind On Blogging

I have once again fallen a little behind on my blogging as of late. Work and teaching have been quite the time consumer. Although I am very pleased to have been able to launch my podcast series this past month. That was something I've been meaning to do for awhile, and it feels good to be able to do it. Honestly, I feel like I've been experiencing a little bit of writers block when trying to come up with a topics to write about.

Luckily, since it is the end of the year, I'll be able to write my annual favorite records of the year posting. So there's one topic at least. What I should really do, is have a brainstorming session, and try to plan out my blogs over a period of time. Sometimes when I organize myself like that, I'm able to over come my writers block.

The Pilot Episode

Yesterday was the day. Yesterday I posted the first episode of my new podcast series entitled: "The Looking Glass". I'm really excited about this podcast. It's primary focus is personal interests and how individuals get into them.

The first episode, which is embedded below, explores the magic of Harry Houdini. My second episode, which I hope to finish in the next few days, will focus on how an individual found Nirvana.

Almost Done With My New Podcast Series

I think I'm almost done with the first episode of my new podcast series. It's called The Looking Glass, and it examines how individuals got into their hobbies and interests. The first episode is on magic and Harry Houdini.

it took me a while to find the right tone for the narration, and music. I think I found both. For narration, I was aiming for a very casual feel. For music, I wanted a lighthearted, almost dreamsical feel. Like how people see their hobbies in a very surreal way.

Just a few more finishing touches, I'll be ready to share it.

Chris Thile Covering Bach

One of my favorite bands is a folk/bluegrass band called The Punch Brothers. Well worth your time to check them out. I recommend the tracks "Magnet", "New York City", and "I Blew it Off" for starters. Anyways that's another topic for another posting.

Chris Thile, who is the lead singer of the Punch Brothers has released a solo recording of himself performing Johann Sebastian Bach's Sonatas and Partitas on the Mandolin. It's beautiful, and I really want to share a performance.

The New Star Wars Trailer

Last week the new Star Wars trailer was released. It's beautiful!! I have no shame in admitting that I teared up slightly. It looks and feels like Star Wars. There's a sense of excitement, wonder, and an old school fun at the movies feel with this trailer. And for me at least, one of the best parts of the new Star Wars is that I don't know anything about it. I've avoided spoilers at all costs. I want to see this movie without knowing anything, and just enjoy it.

Rediscovering an Old Friend

As a fluke of luck would have it, I picked up Johnny Cash' American III: The Solitary Man this past weekend. The best way I can describe listening to this album is it's like being re-acquainted with an old friend. It's a friendly reminder why he is so great! He sings with a "realness" that hasn't, no will ever be replicated. It made me pull out all of my American Recording LPs, and I am currently listening to American II: Unchained as I write this blog. It is always a good feeling to re-discovery greatness. Take the time out of your day, and find Cash's American Recordings. They are well worth your time to listen to.