Category: Literature

Book Review, Book Related Topics

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A Dive into Dystopia: Four Must-Reads for Your Summer

Hey there, fellow bookworms!

Today, I want to take you through a few riveting yet chilling books I recently dove into. After I read Mistborn, I decided to explore 4 Dystopian books, which are 1984, Fahrenheit 451, The Brave New World, and finally, the Hunger Games. Some books scared me a lot because similar conditions may exist in some parts of the world. These novels fall under the ‘dystopian’ genre, which means they paint pictures of imagined worlds where things have gone wrong. These stories can be dark and depressing but are thought-provoking and offer incredible insights.

To kick off our exploration, we have George Orwell’s classic “1984.” Imagine a world where Big Brother always watches, and freedom is a dream. That’s the haunting reality in 1984. Orwell’s mastery in creating a world where individuality is crushed, and truth is manipulated had me gripping the book tight. It’s scary to think how his dystopian vision feels almost too real at times.

Next on our list is “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury. In this fiery tale, books are banned, and ‘firemen’ burn them! Sounds crazy, right? Bradbury’s world made me appreciate our freedom to read, learn, and think. But it also made me ponder – what if knowledge and creativity became a threat? This book is a wake-up call, reminding us to cherish our intellectual freedoms.

Our third stop is “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley. This book is a cocktail of science and society gone wrong. Huxley presents a world where humans are bred in labs, conditioned to conform, and happiness is achieved through a drug called ‘Soma.’ The dystopia here is disguised as a utopia – a perfect world. But is it perfect if we’re stripped of emotions, relationships, and the essence of being human?

Finally, we have “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins to lighten our mood slightly. Yes, it’s a dystopian novel with thrilling adventure, resilient characters, and a glimmer of hope. Set in post-apocalyptic North America, the story revolves around Katniss Everdeen, a young girl forced to participate in a deadly televised game. Katniss’s bravery and humanity shine through despite the grim setting, making this an engaging read.

Each of these novels serves up a feast of thought. They might be set in fictional worlds, but they hold up a mirror to our society, forcing us to reflect on our values and choices. And that’s what makes them both terrifying and fascinating. They remind us that while dystopias are places we wouldn’t want to live in, we should still learn from them.

I hope this peek into my recent reads encourages you to explore these remarkable dystopian tales. They might not be the typical light-hearted summer reads, but I promise you, they’re worth it. So, get your hands on these books and let the reading adventure begin!

Remember, as you journey through these dystopias, feeling down is okay. After all, these are worlds where things have taken a wrong turn. But also remember to look for the lessons and the hope that often hides in these stories.

Happy reading!

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Greek Literature Exploration

Upon concluding the captivating narrative of “The Secret History,” I found myself intrigued and yearning to thoroughly explore the timeless wisdom housed within Greek and Roman mythology and literature. Yet, with utmost humility, if one were to measure the expertise in this field on a scale from 1 to 10, I would find myself hovering around one squarely in the domain of a novice. My comprehension of these ancient civilizations and their literary richness remains quite elementary.

I am, however, not completely uninitiated. My dear husband, an alumnus of an esteemed, single-gender liberal arts university, had chosen to minor in classics during his collegiate years. His academic pursuits in this field have considerably influenced my understanding of the subject, albeit at a rudimentary level. In my prime twenties, a wave of curiosity stirred me, igniting a desire to uncover the treasures in this timeless literature. I gravitated towards two insightful works, “Apology” and “Crito.” Their wisdom and depth had a profound impact on me. I also appreciated grandiose tales, namely the legendary Trojan War and the adventurous saga of Odysseus. Regrettably, my familiarity with these themes lacks the depth that a well-versed scholar might possess, as my knowledge has been acquired without the requisite deep contemplation and rigorous study.

While devouring the pages of “The Secret History,” a realization dawned upon me. A richer understanding of the tale likely came from a more profound acquaintance with Greek literature. Recognizing the gaps in my knowledge, I saw a perfect opportunity to deepen my exploration into this fascinating realm. A crucial tool in my upcoming academic voyage is a book, a thoughtful Christmas present from my mother, titled “Ancient Greek Philosophers,” penned by the esteemed scholar Ken Mondschein, Ph.D.

While this resource doesn’t encompass all philosophers from the ancient Greek era, it presents a comprehensive study of Plato, whose influence transcends time. Although I had skimmed through the book the previous winter, an exhaustive comprehension of its contents would demand a dedicated investment of time and attention. I foresee a two-to-three-month reading expedition to appreciate the nuances of this enlightening work truly.

I’ve charted a course I intend to follow to structure my exploration systematically. My itinerary for the literary journey reads as follows:

    • In July, I will sail with Homer’s legendary epics, “Iliad” and “Odyssey.”
    • August will be reserved for Virgil’s masterpiece, “The Aeneid.”
    • Between July and October, my voyage will be accompanied by “Ancient Greek Philosophers” by Ken Mondschein, Ph.D.

My understanding and appreciation of Greek literature will flourish upon reaching these reading milestones. As to how I will document my journey, the details still need to be decided. Nonetheless, I am keen on sharing my experiences and insights gained from reading these classic works. I am mindful of the challenge ahead. The journey may be lengthy and require steadfast commitment, but the promise of the knowledge that awaits at the end fills me with anticipation and excitement. In the spirit of these timeless narratives, I embark on this adventure, eager to delve into the past and bring its wisdom to the present.

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Decoding ‘The Hunger Games’: From Dystopia to Revolution

Hello fellow readers! Today, I want to discuss the gripping book “The Hunger Games”! This novel, set in a dystopian society, explores oppression, resistance, and the human spirit. The story unfolds in a land called Panem, where life can be really tough. With most people struggling to make ends meet and constant surveillance from the Capitol, freedom feels like a far-off dream. But, as we will discuss, hope can take root and flourish even in the darkest corners.

We will dive deep into the world of “The Hunger Games,” exploring the oppressive society created by the Capitol and its power over the districts. We’ll discuss why this system, despite its seemingly absolute control, has inherent weaknesses that lead to its eventual downfall. Central to our exploration will be the potent symbols of hope and fear – the Mockingjay and the white rose – and their roles in inciting change.
Our journey won’t stop there. We’ll delve into the actual revolution in the story, drawing parallels with historical uprisings and their iconic leaders. Lastly, we’ll discuss why Alma Coin, who presents herself as the new leader post-revolution, might not be the ideal candidate for a free and fair Panem.

Join us as we navigate through the oppressive yet inspiring world of “The Hunger Games,” discovering along the way the power of hope, the courage of resistance, and the importance of ethical leadership. In this journey, we’ll see that bravery, resilience, and unity can ignite a spark that brings about significant change even in the most challenging circumstances.

The oppression of society

The Hunger Games society is split into 12 districts, and life in these districts can be quite challenging. Many folks are starving, struggling to find enough food to feed their families. People live in fear because the government called the Capitol, keeps a watchful eye on everyone 24/7. The Capitol uses hidden cameras and spies to make sure everyone follows the rules. This constant watch makes it hard for people to feel free.

The annual Hunger Games event is one of the scariest things about living in this world. The Capitol forces each district to send one boy and one girl, called tributes, to participate in this dangerous contest. The tributes must fight each other until only one person is left standing. It’s horrifying and sad because these tributes are just kids.

The Hunger Games is not just a contest but also a punishment for a past rebellion. The Capitol uses it to remind people of their power and control. It keeps people afraid because nobody wants their children to be picked as tributes. This fear helps the Capitol maintain control over the districts.

Another way the Capitol keeps control is by limiting freedom. People don’t have the right to speak against the government or to move freely between districts. These strict rules and constant surveillance keep the people in check.

You might wonder why this oppressive system has been able to work for so long. Well, it’s mainly because the Capitol is very good at controlling people. They used fear, punishment, and starvation to keep the districts weak and divided. The people are so busy trying to survive that they don’t have the time or energy to fight against the Capitol. Additionally, the Capitol controls all the resources and information, making it hard for the districts to plan any rebellion.

However, as the story shows, even the most oppressive systems can’t last forever. Eventually, people find the strength to fight back, just like the main character, Katniss Everdeen. It’s a brutal story but also shows the power of hope, bravery, and resilience in the face of oppression.

Weakness of the Capitol and the system

Even though the Capitol in “The Hunger Games” has a lot of control, their system has some big weaknesses too. In fact, President Snow himself points out some of these flaws.

In “The Hunger Games,” one big weakness of the Capitol is its dependence on the districts. Each district has a job, like producing food or coal, and all these goods are sent to the Capitol, which resembles the ancient Roman “Bread and Circus” concept, where rulers kept folks content with free food and fun shows.

Like the Roman emperors who used gladiator fights to distract people, the Capitol uses the Hunger Games to divert its citizens’ attention from their society’s harsh truths. Rome and the Capitol used these tactics to maintain control and avoid rebellions. It’s a powerful reminder of how those in power can use distractions and manipulations to maintain control.

In the Capitol, people live lavish lifestyles. They have fancy clothes, loads of food, and plenty of entertainment. But they’ve forgotten a crucial fact – they couldn’t live this way without the hard work of the people in the districts. If the districts stopped sending resources, the people in the Capitol would be in big trouble.

Because of their comfortable lives, many people in the Capitol have become disconnected from reality. They watch the Hunger Games like it’s just another reality TV show, forgetting that real kids are fighting for their lives. This lack of empathy and understanding is another weakness of the system.

Also, the Capitol may think it’s maintaining control by keeping the districts weak and divided. But, this strategy is actually a double-edged sword. It means the districts have a lot to gain by working together. If the districts ever united against the Capitol, they could pose a severe threat.

So, while the Capitol seems strong on the surface, it’s pretty vulnerable. Their power is based on fear, control, and the work of others. And as we see in the story, the power based on fear, control, and work can be challenged and eventually overthrown when people stand up against it. It’s a great lesson about unity, fairness, and standing up for what’s right.

Hope and Fear

The Mockingjay in the story represents hope. Katniss, the main character, becomes known as “The Mockingjay.” She symbolizes resistance against the Capitol’s control and gives people hope that things can change. Her bravery and refusal to give up, even in the face of great danger, inspire others to believe in a better future.

On the other hand, the white rose symbolizes fear. It’s associated with President Snow, the leader of the Capitol. Whenever you see a white rose in the story, it’s a reminder of Snow’s power and the fear he uses to control people.

President Snow himself said that hope is more powerful than fear, and that’s why it’s dangerous. When people have hope, they’re more likely to fight for change. That’s precisely what happens when Katniss becomes the Mockingjay. Her presence gives people hope, sparking a revolution against the oppressive society. It’s a great example of how symbols can carry powerful meanings in a story.

Revolutions

Let’s compare the revolution in “The Hunger Games” with an actual historical event involving an iconic figure, Joan of Arc.

In “The Hunger Games,” the revolution starts when the districts begin to resist the oppressive rule of the Capitol. Katniss Everdeen became the symbol of this uprising, much like Joan of Arc became the symbol of the French resistance during the Hundred Years’ War.

Like Joan, Katniss didn’t initially set out to be a revolutionary leader. Katniss just wanted to protect her sister and survive the Hunger Games. Similarly, Joan was a simple peasant girl who claimed to have visions from saints instructing her to support Charles VII and recover France from English domination.

Both became inspirational figures who rallied others to their cause. As the “Mockingjay,” Katniss gives the district’s people hope and leads them to rise against the Capitol. Clad in armor, Joan led the French army to several important victories, making her a national heroine.

Despite their different times and contexts, Katniss and Joan share many similarities. Both are young women who, despite their humble origins, become symbols of hope and resistance. Their bravery and determination inspire others and lead to significant change in their societies. They remind us that anyone, no matter who they are, can stand up against injustice and make a difference.

Why Coin can’t be the President

After the revolution in “The Hunger Games,” Alma Coin, the leader of District 13, she was stepped forward to be the new nation’s President. However, she might not be the best choice. Her actions show she might create another oppressive society similar to the Capitol.

Like President Snow, Coin uses power and control to get her way. She even considers starting a new version of the Hunger Games, this time with the children of the Capitol, which shows that she’s willing to sacrifice innocent lives to maintain control, which is no different from what Snow did.

Based on my interpretation, the author’s intended message seems conveyed in the conclusion.

Because something is significantly wrong with a creature that sacrifices its children’s lives to settle its differences…But in the end, who does it benefit? No one. The truth is, it benefits no one to live in a world where these things happen.

History tells us that the period following a revolution can be unstable, often called a “dark age.” After the French Revolution, for example, there was a period known as “The Reign of Terror,” where many people were executed. The dark age happened because the new leaders were just as eager to hold onto power as the old ones.

So, even though revolutions can lead to change, it’s essential to ensure that the new leaders don’t repeat past mistakes. Otherwise, they might create another oppressive system, just like Coin was planning to do in “The Hunger Games.” It’s a reminder that power must be handled responsibly, with the well-being of all people in mind, not just a select few.

 

As we wrap up our deep dive into the fascinating world of “The Hunger Games,” it’s clear that this story offers much more than a dystopian tale. The oppressive society depicted showcases the terrifying extent of the Capitol’s control, yet, it also highlights the system’s vulnerabilities. Underneath the glitz and glamour of the Capitol, the seeds of its downfall are sown by its reliance on the districts and its manipulation of the people.

The profound symbols of hope and fear – the Mockingjay and the white rose – play pivotal roles in stirring the hearts of the oppressed. Like a beacon of hope, Katniss Everdeen inspires the oppressed districts, reminding us of the power a symbol of resilience and defiance can have, much like in real historical revolutions.

However, the book also serves as a warning. While revolution can bring about change, new leadership mustn’t fall into the trap of repeating the oppressive practices of the past. The character of Alma Coin, who proposes to continue the Hunger Games tradition, underscores this point, reminding us that the fight for fairness and equality is an ongoing struggle.

Despite its dystopian setting, The Hunger Games holds a mirror to our society, reflecting the harsh realities of power, control, and resilience in the face of oppression. It is a call to be vigilant and remember that hope can ignite the spark of change even when times are hard. And most importantly, it teaches us that whoever we are, whatever our circumstances, we can make a difference in our world. We have to be brave enough to take a stand.

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Distracted Harmony

Hello fellow readers! Today, we’re embarking on a unique journey. Not to a park or a museum, but straight into the future! Specifically, we’ll explore Aldous Huxley’s take on the future as portrayed in his dystopian novel, “Brave New World.” If you thought navigating your career path was challenging, imagine being in a world where everyone is genetically designed to suit a specific job and social class. A bit intense, right?

Well, it doesn’t stop there. Hefty control is exercised over society, and people’s emotions are suppressed. Suddenly, dealing with everyday problems doesn’t seem so difficult in comparison, does it? So, let’s dive in and look at this unique world Huxley has created for us!

 

In “Brave New World,” society places a high value on getting along with everyone (social harmony) and maintaining a peaceful and orderly world (social stability). They prioritize these things so much that they sometimes lose sight of what makes them individuals.

People in this society use a special drug called soma to help achieve this calm and ordered society. Think of soma as a magic pill that removes strong or uncomfortable feelings. It helps everyone stay happy and peaceful but also stops them from experiencing the full range of human emotions.

However, the quest for this so-called ‘social stability’ comes with a hefty cost. It’s like accessing many books from an electric reader for convenience but giving up your favorite physical books. In their case, they’re giving up their individuality and emotions. Most importantly, they’re losing that special human connection – the bond you share with your best friends or family, where you deeply understand and care for each other.

It’s as if they’ve created a world where everyone gets along because they’re all the same. They’re happy, but it’s because they don’t know any other way to be. And while they have many connections with others, they aren’t the meaningful and deep relationships we value. It’s a trade-off – they have social stability but at the cost of losing what makes us human.

Any human relationships are meaningless in this society. So sleeping with people is just like a sport or game for them. They have multiple partners, and no one minds! It’s no wonder they can’t understand the beautiful lines of Shakespeare – they can’t feel the same emotions his characters do.

 

Unlike the rest of society, the three main characters try to find a meaningful relationship, so they struggle to fit into society. Bernard, Helmholtz, and John (also known as the “Savage”) are like the ‘misfit toys’ of their world, each feeling just a smidge out of place. We’ll explore how they wrestle with a society that prizes “social stability” over individuality, emotion, and, most importantly, human connection.

Bernard Marx is a guy who’s about as comfortable in his skin as a cat in water. He’s an Alpha, the top caste in the World State, but he doesn’t quite measure up to his fellow Alphas—literally. He had a physical character of gamma minus. Imagine being a bit shorter in a world where all Alphas are tall, and you’ve got Bernard. He feels like he’s standing on his tiptoes, trying to fit into this society that values physical perfection. But there’s more to his struggle than his height. Bernard isn’t entirely on board with the emotional numbness as common as air in his world. He sometimes craves real emotions, a big no-no in a society where soma, a feel-good drug, is passed around like candy to keep everyone in a blissful haze. In a world where “fitting in” is the golden rule, Bernard’s often on the outside looking in.

Helmholtz Watson is the guy who got it all: he’s handsome, intelligent, and an Alpha-Plus. But, like trying to cram a square peg into a round hole, Helmholtz just doesn’t quite fit. He is so perfect that he has never had a problem getting women in his bed. He’s feeling a bit like a hamster on a wheel—running around but going nowhere. The superficial pleasures of his society, like recreational sex and soma holidays, leave him feeling as hollow as a chocolate Easter bunny. He yearns for something deeper and more meaningful that his society doesn’t offer.

Finally, let’s talk about John, also known as the “Savage” Talk about a culture shock! John’s been living on the Savage Reservation, where life is like an extended episode of “Little House on the Prairie,” only to be thrust into the high-tech, emotion-suppressed World State. It’s like going from churning butter to watching over your Rumba sweeping on your floor on the clock! John’s deeply influenced by the works of Shakespeare, which makes him treasure emotions and individuality—two things the World State has practically eradicated, which makes him stick out like a sore thumb in a world where everyone else is all about conformity and stability.

 

The three characters are the focal point of the story. By bringing characters like Bernard, Helmholtz, and John into focus, the author, Aldous Huxley, really wants to highlight the price we might pay if we care about “social stability” too much.

Let’s think about it this way. Imagine all your friends decide to play the same video game, and they want you to play, too. But you don’t like that game. Still, you choose to join in just to fit in. In the process, you give up a bit of your uniqueness – what makes you ‘you’?

In “Brave New World,” that’s kind of what happens, but on a much bigger scale. Bernard, Helmholtz, and John all stand out because they aren’t like everyone else in their society. They show us that when we focus too much on keeping everything stable and everyone happy, we risk losing what makes us unique. We risk losing our ability to feel deeply and connect with others on a personal level.

It’d undoubtedly be tough to walk in their shoes in such a society, wouldn’t it? It’s hard to picture ourselves living in that kind of world. Honestly, I was torn between feeling sorry for these three characters or the rest of society. Those heavily influenced by genetic engineering and frequently using soma probably don’t even realize what they’re missing out on. It’s like they’re at a grand feast but only tasting one dish, missing out on all the other delicious flavors. So while their world may seem stable and peaceful, they’re missing the depth and variety of experiences that truly make us human.

 

“Brave New World” takes you on an exciting journey to a future world where people value getting along with everyone more than being true to themselves. You’ll meet fascinating characters like Bernard, Helmholtz, and John, who stand out, making you think about what it means to be different. The book makes you wonder about balancing keeping society peaceful and allowing people to be themselves. It’s an excellent read for anyone who likes stories about future worlds or if you enjoy deep thoughts about society and where we might be heading. Don’t miss this classic.

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Censorship: A Dystopian Critique on Fahrenheit 451

I recently finished reading a disquieting dystopian fantasy book, “Fahrenheit 451,” by Ray Bradbury. After completing it, I had to pause for a day to collect myself and soak in all I’d read.

 

The story throws us into a dystopian future where the lead character, Guy Montag, is a fireman. But hold on; these firemen have an interesting job – they ignite books instead of extinguishing fires. Strange, right? This is because the governing body in this world prohibits books from suppressing the propagation of diverse ideas.

Montag never questioned his job until he met his new, inquisitive neighbor. This young lady nudged him to reassess his life, work, and societal norms. He decided to bring a book home, initiating a clandestine collection. This risky adventure into reading pushed him to question his society’s dictatorial rules.

Things take a turn when Montag’s distant wife uncovers his secret. Out of dread, she betrays him by reporting his book collection to the firefighters. Montag’s life gets turned upside down after this. The book is a hard-hitting critique of censorship and conformity, underlining the significance of literature, critical thinking, and individual freedom.

 

Conformity

Conformity refers to the social behavior where people align their attitudes, beliefs, or actions with those of their group. It’s a common way of creating a uniform society or group, but it does take a toll on freedom of thought and behavior. It discourages individuality and creativity.

In “Fahrenheit 451”, the dystopian society is an outstanding example of conformity. Citizens willingly accept oppressive rules, including the book ban and the preference for trivial entertainment over intellectual conversations. Montag’s wife is so engrossed in her shallow life that she doesn’t realize she’s stopped being human.

Information in this society is strictly controlled. People need books or encouragement to think critically to stop thinking. When Montag starts questioning these norms, his wife’s response is a mix of fear and denial.

Ironically, at the end of “Fahrenheit 451”, the city that prohibited books from suppressing knowledge is destroyed by an atomic bomb. The society that tried to prevent chaos by limiting individual thought crumbles to ruins due to the war, perhaps due to its suppressive measures and failure to promote critical thinking and learning.

Despite this bleak scenario, there’s a glimmer of hope. The intellectual outcasts, who have memorized entire books, survive. They hold within them the knowledge that the old society tried to extinguish, demonstrating the resilience of human thought and ideas.

The book leaves us with a potent commentary on the cyclical nature of human civilization and the ongoing struggle between censorship and freedom, ignorance, and knowledge. Despite the challenges and risks, the book-loving survivors are determined to build a society based on enlightenment rather than suppression.

Conclusion

In the past, certain governments suppressed intellectual freedom, such as the Nazi’s book burning in Germany and the Cultural Revolution in China. Here in the US, we enjoy more freedom but must be vigilant of any subtle censorship driven by group or political interests.

The book “Fahrenheit 451” was like a warning claxon in my mind. I believe it’s vital to understand the ‘why’ behind the label of evil rather than just accepting the ‘what.’ It brought home the scary thought of people forgetting how to question the reasons behind labeling something as evil as information has been filtered for us.

On a lighter note, this book makes for a great summer read despite its heavy theme. Its captivating tale of a future dystopian society is quite engaging, not to mention a bit spine-chilling. So go ahead, try it, and let it make you ponder!

 

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From Mistborn to 1984: A Journey into Dystopian Fantasy

After finishing the Mistborn series, I decided to try a different genre—dystopian fantasy. That’s how I stumbled upon “1984,” a novel by George Orwell. It’s about a society where one group, the Party, rules everything.

The Party is really crafty at holding on to power. They use many tactics, like spying on people, twisting words and facts, and giving out brutal punishments. They have a knack for controlling what everyone thinks and does. And the worst part? People lose what makes them unique. Their rights and their lives revolve around serving the Party.

This quote from a book has stuck in my head, and I can’t seem to forget it.

Freedom is slavery.

Love is hate.

Ignorance is strength.

In societies like these, keeping the group together means keeping the leader in power. Ultimately, the group’s life depends solely on the survival of the leader or a select group—basically, it’s all about domination. There’s not much room for thinkers or philosophers in such a society. The only slots are for the ruler, like the Lord Ruler in “Mistborn” and Big Brother in “1984”. Thinkers who don’t fit in either get “re-educated” in the Ministry of Love or transformed into less intellectual beings, like the Kandra in “Mistborn.”

I remembered a story a Cambodian boy told me about his parents escaping the Khmer Rouge in the late ’70s. It was much like stories from folks who left Russia and Poland in the ’90s. These stories gave me an odd feeling after reading “1984.” I was scared to check if these stories were real because they might be even more terrible than I thought.

When rulers like these take over, they usually justify their harsh actions. They claim it’s all for the greater good, to crush individuality and personal rights. It’s all about power, control, and setting up a new order or “saving the world.” Interestingly, the Lord Ruler in “Mistborn” was trying to save the world. But he could have done it better like Elend Venture attempted to in the series.

Despite the uncomfortable feeling, “1984” is a fascinating read. It’s scary how the survival of everyone depends entirely on the Party. It shows how absolute control is used to boss people around. But it’s definitely worth the read!”

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Journey into a World of Fantasy: Unveiling the Magic of “Mistborn”

Hello, fellow bookworms! We recently delved into the intriguing world of Brandon Sanderson’s “Mistborn” series. After exploring this dystopian universe, my curiosity has been piqued, and I’m excited to tell you about my next reading adventure.

Our journey into dystopian literature continues as I’ve picked out four other captivating books that present unique perspectives on dystopian worlds. These timeless classics have inspired readers worldwide and left indelible marks on the genre.

George Orwell’s “1984

Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World.” Unlike “1984,”

Suzanne Collins’s “The Hunger Games.” – I know there’s a movie series, but I haven’t had the chance to see it yet.

Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451,”

I plan to explore these books, comparing their dystopian elements with “Mistborn” and discussing what makes them so compelling. Stay tuned as I continue this literary journey together, discovering the depths of these iconic dystopian worlds. Who knows? I might even find my favorite book!

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Journey into a World of Fantasy: Unveiling the Magic of “Mistborn”

Every once in a while, we come across a piece of literature that leaves us wide-eyed with its unique world, captivating characters, and gripping storyline. For those who adore fantasy like me, the “Mistborn” series by Brandon Sanderson is one such marvel that will keep us riveted from beginning to end. Today, we dive into the magical universe of “Mistborn” and what makes it a compelling read for fans of fantasy novels.

“Mistborn: The Final Empire,” the first book in the series, instantly invited me into a world where the laws of nature are manipulated by gifted individuals who ingest and “burn” different types of metal, each granting them distinct supernatural powers. These individuals are known as the “Mistborn.” Set in a dystopian landscape ruled by the immortal Lord Ruler, the society of “Mistborn” is divided between the oppressed skaa (commoners) and the privileged nobility.

The protagonist, Vin, a young skaa girl, survives the brutal streets of Luthadel by relying on her quick wits and natural skepticism. Vin’s life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers she is a Mistborn, possessing an extraordinary range of powers. She is recruited by a charismatic revolutionary, Kelsier, a Mistborn who plans to overthrow the tyrannical Lord Ruler. As Vin learns to harness her abilities, she becomes a key player in the rebellion and an emblem of hope for the oppressed skaa.

What makes this book so enticing? Sanderson’s exceptional world-building is one of the most vital elements of the series. The meticulous design of the magic system, known as Allomancy, is utterly fascinating. It operates on defined principles and limitations, making it believable and intricate. Using metals as a source of magic is genuinely innovative and sets “Mistborn” apart from other fantasy novels.

Moreover, Sanderson has crafted a variety of engaging characters. Vin, our heroine, evolves from a wary, mistrustful street urchin to a brave, determined woman, inspiring readers with her journey. Other characters like Kelsier, with his magnetic personality and unwavering optimism, also leave a lasting impression.

The narrative is complex but smoothly paced, allowing me to immerse myself in the world of “Mistborn gradually.” It’s an epic tale of resilience and rebellion, interspersed with tension, exhilaration, and heartbreak. Sanderson’s writing style is lucid and engaging, making it an enjoyable read for teenagers and adults alike.

“Mistborn” is not just about magic and adventure; it also delves into themes like power, inequality, and the human spirit’s resilience against oppression. It made me reflect on these profound subjects, adding a deeper layer to my reading experience.

In conclusion, Brandon Sanderson’s “Mistborn” is an exciting adventure into a world teeming with mystery, magic, and compelling characters. The intriguing magic system, engaging plot, and complex themes make it a must-read for any fantasy fan. So, if you haven’t ventured into the world of “Mistborn” yet, grab a copy, cozy up in your favorite reading nook, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey.

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If You Feel Uneasy, Read This Book: Hojoki

With recent Tornado and COVID outbreaks, I have felt constant uneasiness for the last year or so. I picked up a book, the Hojoki. The Hojoki is a collection of literary essays from Kamo no Chomei (鴨長明). The Hojoki is regarded as one of the three great Zuihitsu (essays). The Hojoki was written around 1212.

In the Hojoki, Chomei wrote about Mujokan (無常観), the awareness of impermanence, a fundamental Buddhist philosophy principle. Things never stay permanent. Everything changes even if they don’t seem to change in appearance.

The last time I read this book was when I was in my teens. I still remember the first part because we had to learn the first part of my school’s curriculum. It was so poetic that I memorized the opening of this book.

I translated the opening of the book.

Look at the river carefully. The flow of the water never ceased.
You realize the river exists all the time, but the water in the river never stays the same.
The bubbles floating in the river constantly bursting and reform, and they are never lingering.
Just like the water and the bubbles in the river, people and their dwellings in the world keeps changing.
There is nothing in the world that stays permanent.

In the opening sentence, Chomei wrote about the awareness of the transience of things by giving the exact things he experienced. This opening poem reminds me of Pantha Rhei, the ever-present change expressed by The Greek Philosopher Heraclitus of Ephesus (535 – 475BC).

Before I explain further about this book, I would like to introduce Chomei’s life quickly. He was born in 1155 as the 2nd son of Negi at Shimogamo temple. Negi is the title of a person who leads Shinto rituals at a Shinto Temple. Many wealthy people made donations to Shinto temples to avoid disaster. Therefore, some temples, such as Shimogamo Temple, became wealthy. Chomei had a luxurious childhood.

Although, it did not last long. When Chomei was 18 years old, his father passed away. Since Chomei’s mother was already passed away, he had no allies during inheritance conflicts among his relatives. As a result, Chomei was left with nothing. He decided to abandon his relatives and duties at the Shinto temple and mastered playing the Biwa (a Biwa is a plucked string instrument resembling a lute) and creating waka. Waka is a classic Japanese poem that contains 31 morae.

At the age of 47, he had another opportunity to regain his social status. At this time, Chomei mastered playing Biwa, and he was a well-regarded poet. He was appointed as one of the editors of Chyokusen Waka Shyu. Because he worked so hard on the new role as an editor, he was given a chance to be a Negi at a Tadasunoyashiro temple by Gotoba Tenno, the 87th Japanese Tenno. Although, Chomei lost this opportunity because his relatives objected. Chomei’s relatives believed that he was not entitled to the position because Chomei abandoned his duties at another Shinto temple. The Tenno agreed with their objection, so Chomei did not get the role. Chomei became a Buddhist monk at forty-nine and lived in a 10- square foot house in a mountain until his death with great disappointment.

All essays in the Hojoki were Chomei’s historical statements about his own experiences and five disasters he experienced: fires, Whirlwind, relocation of the nation’s capital, flood, and earthquake. He mainly experienced them in his 20’s.

The disasters Written in the Hojoki:

The Great Fire at Angen (23 years old) – 1177

The Whirlwind at Chishyo (26 years old)

Fukuhara Sento – Moving of Capital city (26 years old) 1180

Famine at Yowa (27 years) – 1181

Earthquake in Genryaku (31 years old) – 1185

The Genpei War 1180-1185

He lived in a Chaotic World. In 1180, the Genpei War started. It was a national civil war between the Taira and The Minamoto clans. The battle lasted five years, and the Taira clan lost. In 1192, Yoritomo Minamoto was finally granted the title of the imperial commission, Sei-I Tai Shogun, and a feudal state in Japan arose. I will not get into the Genpei War in this article; however, I found many videos about it. I will share links to the videos below. You are free to check the videos that explain the war very well.

Chomei wrote what he observed and felt from the disasters he experienced. Then, he stated that history keeps repeating because we seem to forget the lessons learned from the horrible disasters.

People talked about the disasters when they occurred.
However, we forget as time passes.
Thus, we never learned from them.

After the war of Genpei, Japan turned into a feudal state which lasted until the Edo period started. We experienced multiple wars as if we did not learn a thing from each war.
As of 2021, we still live in the middle of the COVID pandemic, which has claimed many lives. Will we still remember this pandemic a few decades later? Can we react better when the next pandemic strikes? In order not to repeat the disaster, we should not forget what happened.

In the last part of this book, Chomei wrote about how to live from his point of view. His life experiences influenced him greatly. He suggests living freely without depending on others. He means not being too obsessed with people, materials, or social status as all things in the world are ephemeral.


Yet, in the final part of this book, he wrote.

I left material life.
I live and act like a monk
I preach not to be obsessed with things.
I questioned myself.
Yet, why do I still write about my life?
All I could say was “Amitabha.”

His book captured my heart because they were written from his personal experience. Throughout his writing, I still sense his deep sorrow. This book contains the conclusions he reached after his affairs. At the same time, I feel somehow lifted because he retained his humanity. It is ok if we lose time to time. I am encouraged by the book because it made me realize that things I worry over are also not permanent.


I recommend that anyone read this book, especially if you feel uneasy that there is no certainty in life; If you do not know what to do or have difficulties from relationships. The book shows you a different way of living life.

The book shows a different way of living life – a life without obsession. Of course, it is good to work hard on something. Don’t invest too much of your energy or emotion in them because nothing lasts forever.

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Revisiting Spirit Away

I recently watched “Sprit Away – English version.” I had previously watched Spirit Away almost two decades ago. I recalled it as an exciting adventure film with few messages such as environmental stewardship and greed.  My niece recently started watching Miyazaki’s movies, my neighbor Totoro and Ponyo, which made me want to watch Miyazaki’s films again.

It is interesting to discover how our cumulative experience and knowledge influence our perspective toward books or movies. This time, I had a different view of this film from the last time I watched it. The characters were carefully developed throughout the story. Miyazaki intentionally leaves some essential elements blank so that anyone can fill them in. Now everyone has different interpretations of the movie. After I re-watched this movie, I decided to do a literary analysis on this film from a Japanese perspective. For this blog, I focused on the following two points of the film.

–       Who is Haku?

–       What is the hidden motivation of the main character?

It is critical to understand the relationship of Chihiro to her parents before talking about Haku. Chihiro seems to have affection toward both of her parents just like a child, while her mother is distant to Chihiro. The mother did not show concern for Chihiru’s safety. For example, the mother did not check whether Chihiro passed the creek safely or not. In the scary place, Chihiro was disturbed. Just as a typical child would do, Chihiro held onto the arms of her mother. Instead of holding the daughter’s hand, the mother complained not to cling to her arm, which was an un-motherly-like behavior.

The next important character in this movie is Haku, the river god who helps her. Haku appeared in front of Chihiro early in the film, right after her parents turned into pigs. Miyazaki left Haku’s appearance in front of Chihiro ambiguous, so we must fill the detail ourselves.

When Chihiro returned the golden seal to Zeniba, Zeniba told Chihiro the spell on it was gone. Then, Zeniba exclaimed that only love could break her spell. What kind of love was that? Why was Haku so willing to help Chihiro from the beginning of her adventure? When we think about these questions, was there “a biological love” between them. Haku was Chihiro’s brother? Sometimes these spirits (Kami) can be created from people’s wishes. Sometimes spirits are created when one sacrifices one’s life for another.

When I was young, my grandmother told me a story about a girl who lost her way in the woods. She ended up among many flowers where she met an older woman there who said to the girl,

Do you see teardrops on the flower?

A girl somewhere just gave her food to her younger sisters, even though she was also starving.

Do you see the tear, that is the tear from the girl?

Do you see the mountain?

A man sacrificed his life to save the villagers. So, he became a mountain.

When people sacrifice something, they make a flower to grow.

When people sacrifice their lives, they turn into Mountains.

Now, go home.

There are reasons why I think Haku was Chihiro’s biological brother. Haku seems willing to risk his life to save Chihiro from the beginning, yet Haku remembers nothing except Chihiro’s name. Zeniba told Chihiro that the spell was removed because of love. Zeniba repeated “Love” twice, and this is important.

When Chihiro was riding on Haku, the dragon, fragments of memories flashed through her head – her pink shoes were carried away by the river’s current.  Then, there is a hand with a white T-shirt that pulled her from the river. Chihiro wondered why she could not recall the memory earlier. Chihiro almost died from drowning in the past, and he could not remember it. It is documented that some traumatic events can create memory loss associated with the traumatic events. Health professionals address the symptom as Trauma-related dissociation, a survival mechanism of forgetting the event that is so overwhelming that one can no longer cope (International Society for Study of Trauma and Dissociation, n.d.). With few seconds of information, I could formulate the following hypothesis.

When Chihiro was younger, she nearly drowned in a river. Her brother, Haku, drowned in the river when he was trying to save Chihiro. With the overwhelming traumatic event of near-death experience and the loss of her brother, Chihiro could not remember the event at all. Chihiro’s mother is distant subconsciously because she somehow felt that Chihiro was responsible for her son’s death. According to Foster (2003), there are some common personality traits – they tend to be responsible for the death of someone close. This trait is not clearly stated in the text, so we need to fill in this blank to make sense of the character. Unfortunately, the characters, such as Haku, are rarely the protagonist. Instead, their death is often used to move the plot forward.

After sacrificing his life for his sister, Haku turned into the Kohaku River. Haku is the river’s name. Spirits don’t remember their name, why they died or what they were doing before they turned into a spirit. After sacrificing his life for his sister, Haku turned into the Kohaku River. Haku is the river’s name. Spirits don’t remember their name, why they died or what they were doing before becoming a spirit. Chihiro says that the Kohaku River no longer exists because of the new apartment complexes where the river used to be. It must be at least a few years that have passed since the traumatic event. Her parents are moving away from the old town to start a new life to rebuild the family relationship because some family problems are incurred from their son’s death. They may be moving because the river no longer exists.

Chihiro starts her adventure to save her parents, then to save Haku. These are the stated motivation of the heroes in the movie. There is a common trait among parents, Chihiro, and Haku in the spirit world. All of them seek an establishment place. Chihiro and her parents are moving away from the home they lived. Haku lost the river he used to haunt. I think the hidden motivation of the hero was to find the next place to inhabit. Since Chihiro could not remember her brother’s death, she moves forward (grown) by placing how someone sacrificed his life for her in the past.

Neither parents nor Chihiro will have a clear memory of their disappearance. They will continue with their life after they moved into a new home.

In Japan, many folklores spoke about Kamikakushi, spirited away. The Japanese title of this movie is “Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakishi.” Kamikakushi means “hidden by the gods,” and people often use the word to explain the disappearance of people and their reappearance. Many returned with either fuzzy memories or no memories of their disappearance. The folktales were made so that the parents or people close to the missing people could deal with the tragic disappearance of someone they love (Matsuura, 2019).

There is personal development in Chihiro her adventures in the spirit world. When Chihiro’s father said to Chihiro,” A new home and a new school? It is a bit Scary”, Chihiro replied. “I think I can handle it.” We will never know whether she remembers her past after she is out from the spirit world. She may remember her traumatic events. Even she remembers her traumatic event, and I feel that Chihiro could make peace in her mind to move on with her life. I think Haku left the spirit world where he was trapped and came back to Chihiro’s world to protect her as her protective spirit (Shyugorei) just as promised to Zeniba – This is an ending I imagined after revisiting the film.

This is the second time I did a literary analysis. Literature is just like art. The key to understanding the literature is the motivation behind the techniques the creator intentionally used. Miyazaki left out what happened to them or Haku for the movie. So, this will be up to the audience to fill in the blank – that is the exciting part of literary analysis. And, it is interesting to find out how I come up with a different perspective from what I remembered from 20 years ago.