Shel the poem artist

The history of tarot is a fascinating journey that spans centuries and traverses various cultures. The origins of tarot cards can be traced back to 15th-century Italy, where they emerged as playing cards. The initial purpose of these decks was purely recreational, serving as a game known as "tarocchi" or "triumphi."

1. Early Playing Cards (15th Century):
   
   • Origin: Tarot cards likely originated in northern Italy in the early 15th century. The oldest surviving complete deck is the "Visconti-Sforza" deck, dating back to the 1440s.
   • Function: Originally used for games, tarot decks were adorned with symbolic imagery, including allegorical illustrations and trump cards.
2. Tarot in France (Late 15th Century):
   
   • Migration: Tarot cards crossed into France in the late 15th century, and the game evolved with the addition of the 22 trump cards, known as the Major Arcana.
   • Symbolism: The Major Arcana introduced iconic characters and archetypal symbols, enhancing the cards' allegorical significance.
3. Occult Associations (18th Century):
   
   • Esoteric Interest: In the 18th century, interest in the occult and mystical arts surged in Europe. Tarot cards gained esoteric significance, with scholars attributing hidden meanings to the cards beyond their gaming purpose.
   • Etteilla: The French occultist Etteilla published influential tarot interpretations, contributing to the transformation of tarot into a tool for divination and self-discovery.
4. The Rider-Waite-Smith Deck (Early 20th Century):
   
   • Revolutionary Design: In 1909, A.E. Waite and Pamela Colman Smith collaborated on the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, featuring vivid illustrations and intricate symbolism. This deck became immensely popular and served as the foundation for many modern tarot decks.
   • Divinatory Focus: The Rider-Waite-Smith deck emphasized the mystical and divinatory aspects of tarot, influencing the widespread adoption of tarot for spiritual and introspective purposes.
5. Tarot in the New Age Movement (20th Century Onward):
   
   • Popularization: The mid-20th century witnessed a surge in interest in mysticism, the occult, and alternative spiritual practices. Tarot cards gained popularity within the New Age movement, becoming a tool for self-reflection, divination, and personal growth.
   • Diverse Decks: The latter half of the 20th century saw the creation of diverse tarot decks, each with unique themes and interpretations, catering to different spiritual traditions and personal preferences.
6. Modern Tarot Practices (21st Century):
   
   • Global Appeal: Tarot has transcended cultural boundaries and gained a global following. The internet has played a significant role in disseminating tarot knowledge, making it accessible to a diverse audience.
   • Integration with Psychology: Many practitioners view tarot through a psychological lens, using the cards as a tool for introspection, therapy, and personal development.

The historical evolution of tarot reflects its transformation from a simple deck of playing cards to a versatile tool for divination, self-exploration, and spiritual guidance. Today, tarot continues to captivate individuals worldwide, offering a unique blend of ancient symbolism and contemporary relevance.

1. Diverse Tarot Systems and Cultural Influences:
   
   • Cultural Adaptations: Tarot has adapted to various cultural contexts, leading to the creation of decks that draw inspiration from different mythologies, traditions, and artistic styles.
   • Themed Decks: Modern tarot enthusiasts can explore decks inspired by Norse mythology, Celtic traditions, Eastern philosophies, and more, allowing for a rich diversity of interpretations and connections.
2. Tarot and Popular Culture:
   
   • Media Exposure: Tarot has found its way into mainstream media, with references in literature, movies, and television series. This exposure has contributed to its widespread recognition and acceptance.
   • Creative Interpretations: Popular culture has inspired artists and creators to produce tarot decks with themes ranging from fantasy and science fiction to contemporary pop culture references, showcasing the adaptability of tarot symbolism.
3. Tarot in Digital Age:
   
   • Online Platforms: The digital age has transformed tarot readings, making them accessible through online platforms and mobile apps. Virtual tarot readings and communities provide a global forum for discussion and learning.
   • Digital Decks: Tarot decks are now available in digital formats, enabling users to explore and engage with the cards through virtual platforms, expanding the reach of tarot practices.
4. Tarot as a Personalized Tool:
   
   • Self-Expression: Many individuals now create their own tarot decks, infusing personal symbols, experiences, and artistic styles into the cards. This personalized approach enhances the connection between the user and the cards.
   • Intuitive Reading: Modern tarot practices often emphasize intuitive reading, encouraging users to trust their instincts and personal interpretations rather than relying strictly on traditional meanings.
5. Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives:
   
   • Psychology and Tarot: Some psychologists view tarot as a projective tool that can tap into the unconscious mind, offering insights into one's thoughts and emotions.
   • Skepticism and Tarot: Skeptics often approach tarot from a psychological or statistical standpoint, exploring the phenomenon through the lens of cognitive biases and the placebo effect.
6. Tarot Communities and Education:
   
   • Learning Resources: The availability of books, online courses, and workshops has contributed to the education and skill development of tarot practitioners. This has empowered individuals to deepen their understanding of tarot symbolism and interpretation.
   • Community Engagement: Tarot communities, both online and offline, provide platforms for sharing experiences, seeking guidance, and fostering a sense of community among practitioners.

As tarot continues to evolve, its rich history merges with contemporary influences, shaping a dynamic and diverse landscape. Whether embraced for spiritual guidance, artistic expression, or personal insight, tarot remains a versatile and enduring tool that resonates with individuals on their unique journeys of self-discovery.

1. Tarot Ethics and Professionalization:
   
   • Code of Ethics: In modern tarot practices, professional readers often adhere to ethical guidelines. These guidelines emphasize confidentiality, client empowerment, and responsible use of divination tools.
   • Certification and Training: Some tarot practitioners pursue formal training and certification programs to enhance their skills and professionalism, contributing to the recognition of tarot reading as a legitimate and ethical practice.
2. Scientific Research on Tarot:
   
   • Psychological Studies: While scientific research on tarot is limited, some studies explore the psychological aspects of tarot reading. Research has investigated how individuals interpret symbols, engage in reflective thinking, and experience a sense of empowerment through tarot readings.
   • Cognitive Science Perspectives: Tarot's intersection with cognitive science has led to examinations of how the mind processes symbolic information and the impact of belief systems on perception.
3. Tarot and Intersectionality:
   
   • Inclusivity: Tarot communities increasingly emphasize inclusivity, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives, cultures, and identities. Decks that reflect a broader range of experiences and backgrounds contribute to a more inclusive tarot landscape.
   • Intersectional Readings: Practitioners may integrate intersectionality into their readings, acknowledging the complexity of individual identities and experiences within a broader social context.
4. Tarot's Influence on Art and Literature:
   
   • Literary Works: Tarot symbolism has inspired numerous works of literature, poetry, and art. Authors and artists often incorporate tarot themes to explore psychological, spiritual, and philosophical concepts.
   • Tarot in Visual Arts: Tarot continues to be a muse for visual artists, with contemporary artworks reimagining and interpreting the traditional tarot archetypes in new and innovative ways.
5. Tarot and Holistic Wellness:
   
   • Mind-Body-Spirit Connection: Tarot is increasingly integrated into holistic wellness practices that emphasize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. It complements approaches like meditation, mindfulness, and energy healing.
   • Wellness Retreats and Workshops: Wellness retreats and workshops may incorporate tarot as a tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and stress reduction, aligning with the broader holistic wellness movement.
6. Tarot and Technology Integration:
   
   • Mobile Apps and Online Platforms: Technology has facilitated the accessibility of tarot through mobile apps and online platforms, offering virtual readings, digital decks, and interactive tarot experiences.
   • Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality: Emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have the potential to transform tarot experiences, providing immersive and interactive readings.

The ongoing evolution of tarot reflects its adaptability to societal changes, technological advancements, and a growing understanding of its psychological and symbolic dimensions. As it continues to weave through various aspects of contemporary life, tarot remains a dynamic and versatile tool with enduring relevance.

1. Tarot and Social Media:
   
   • Online Communities: Social media platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, have become hubs for tarot enthusiasts. Tarot readers share daily card pulls, interpretations, and create educational content, fostering a vibrant online community.
   • Global Connections: Social media has facilitated global connections among tarot practitioners, allowing for the exchange of diverse perspectives, interpretations, and deck recommendations.
2. Tarot in Mental Health Practices:
   
   • Therapeutic Applications: Some mental health professionals incorporate tarot into therapeutic practices, using it as a tool for self-reflection, exploration of emotions, and promoting therapeutic dialogue.
   • Mindfulness and Coping: Tarot readings can be used as a mindfulness practice, helping individuals cultivate self-awareness and coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges.
3. Tarot's Evolving Symbolism:
   
   • Living Symbolism: Tarot symbolism is not static; it evolves over time. Modern tarot decks often reinterpret traditional symbols to reflect contemporary values, ensuring that the cards remain relevant and resonant with current cultural contexts.
   • Innovative Decks: Artists continue to create innovative tarot decks that explore diverse themes, introducing new symbols and archetypes that speak to a wide range of experiences.
4. Tarot and Ritual Practices:
   
   • Ritualistic Use: Tarot is incorporated into various ritual practices, from simple daily card pulls to more elaborate ceremonies. These rituals can serve as a form of meditation, intention-setting, or connection with spiritual energies.
   • Seasonal Celebrations: Some practitioners align tarot practices with seasonal changes, using specific spreads or decks to explore themes associated with the solstices, equinoxes, and other significant astrological events.
5. Tarot and Gender Representation:
   
   • Expanding Archetypes: Modern tarot decks often challenge traditional gender roles and expand archetypal representations. Decks may feature diverse gender identities and expressions, offering a more inclusive and fluid understanding of the archetypal energies within the cards.
   • Feminist Tarot: Some decks explicitly adopt feminist perspectives, reimagining traditional tarot symbolism to empower and celebrate the diverse experiences of individuals across the gender spectrum.
6. Tarot as Literary Inspiration:
   
   • Literary Works and Tarot: Tarot continues to inspire literary works, with novels, poems, and plays incorporating tarot themes and archetypes. Authors explore the psychological and symbolic depths of tarot, infusing their narratives with mystical and esoteric elements.
   • Narrative Exploration: Tarot's narrative potential serves as a source of inspiration for storytellers, offering a structure that mirrors the hero's journey or provides a framework for exploring characters' internal and external conflicts.

The dynamic interplay between tarot and contemporary culture reveals its enduring appeal and adaptability. From social media platforms to therapeutic practices, tarot remains a versatile tool that resonates with individuals seeking insight, connection, and personal growth in an ever-changing world.
In conclusion, the history and evolution of tarot reflect its remarkable journey from humble playing cards to a multifaceted tool deeply embedded in modern culture. As tarot continues to weave its way through diverse aspects of society, from online communities to therapeutic practices, its enduring relevance lies in its adaptability, symbolism, and capacity to inspire self-discovery.
From the mysterious origins of the 15th century to its current role as a global phenomenon, tarot has transcended cultural and historical boundaries. As it integrates with technology, influences art and literature, and finds new applications in mental health and wellness, tarot remains a dynamic force that resonates with those seeking spiritual insights, artistic expression, and personal transformation.
Whether approached through a psychological lens, as a form of self-reflection, or as part of broader cultural movements, tarot's journey reflects the human quest for meaning, connection, and the exploration of the inner self. Its rich tapestry of symbolism continues to captivate individuals across the globe, making tarot a timeless and ever-evolving companion on the diverse paths of human experience.

There was a website that I LOVED about ten years ago. It was a male artist who drew out famous poems/short stories. It was in a comic like form. Kind of realistic? I don’t know how to describe it. They were beautifully done and I’ve been agonizing for like the last month trying to remember who it was. I followed the site around the same time The Oatmeal was popular if that helps. It’s driving me crazy and the artwork was absolutely beautiful. I know it’s not a lot to go on but if anyone has ANY idea what the hell I’m talking about it would be greatly appreciated 😭😭
He also did artwork based on stories for people like maya angelou, Malala, and many other well known activists. I want to say 2012-2015 would be when I was found this person.

Ok, so I’m an Indigenous (Cree) woman who works for a nonprofit. My town does not have a lot of Black people, but there’s a lot of surrounding Pueblos so there’s quite a bit of Native people. I also want to note that we have a lot of new agey spiritual white people.
There’s an event coming up that my org is doing and I’m feeling really weird about. There’s this filmmake write artist whose gonna do a talk. She’s a white woman who was raised in Kenya. This talk is all about connecting to your ancestors. In the event, you’re supposed to bring an object with an ancestral meaning, and you’ll get to “build your own headdress”. Now, this is more African culture rather than my own, but as a plains Native, it’s giving me the ick. In my culture, headdress are incredibly sacred and connecting to my ancestors is incredibly personal. I did some research and found out she wrote a poem/ story called “A White Woman and her Black Servant” which is about a white woman and her black servant having a “spiritual baby” together.
She has her own nonprofit which does great humanitarian work, but I’m still really bothered. No one else seems to be bugged by it though. I’ll admit it, I hate the new agey folks here so I’m biased. Am I overreacting? Should I say something?

Please help! I want to get a tattoo of some Hebrew so I want to be double-sure it's correct.
I've used an app to translate "I am my own father" and got "אני אבא של עצמי" (ani aba shel 'atsemi). The first part makes sense to me because I know "ani" is basically the same as "I" and "aba" is father, but I can't be as confident about the last two words since I know apps aren't the most reliable translators.
Is it a good translation? Are there betteslash alternative translations? Options would be great since I plan on getting artistic with the design.
Thanks!

I (26M) have a really great beautiful wife (26F). She does everything for me. I'm very lucky to have her as my wife. But recently i wasn't able to do what she craved for and I got depressed. She wanted to have a CNC and told me to slap her while having it. I accidentally slapped hard ig, made her face swole and bleed. So i got scared and we stopped. This led me to a great depression for a week, even though she said she was okay and tell me not to worry. At the end i solved the issue by communicating with her. But the thing is that since that day, i feel like I can't please her at all, physically and mentally. I feel like i failed to do everything she wanted. She's the best wife in the world I'm telling you, she does EVERYTHING for me. Besides being a great wife, she's a great woman, artist, writer, dancer. Whatever she touches, she just masters it. I feel like I don't deserve to have someone like her. I'm an atheist, but a thank god for giving me someone like her. I'm just overwhelmed by all the stuffs she does for me and how good she is for me. I think she deserves someone better than me. I try to be with her everytime, but my job doesn't allow it. I try to bring her to fancy dates, but I can't make enough time for both of us. I want to be at her performances, I want to be with her in the garden. I want to write poems with her, but again this fucking job just get between us. I want to leave this job but the rent will have us homeless.

The poem is told from the houseflies' perspective. They're depicted as very civilized by their own standards, and they have a pretty low opinion of humans. I don't remember most of it, but I remember the last lines being:

They walk around on grubby floors
Though they have lovely ceilings
Which shows that human beings lack
Our more artistic feelings

Since I can remember some of the lines, I thought I'd be able to find it on my own, but none of these lines give me any results.

1. Symbolism Exploration:
   
   • Research and write about the symbolic significance of each candle on the Hanukkah menorah. How do these symbols relate to the historical events of Hanukkah?
2. Traditional Foods Investigation:
   
   • Explore the traditional Hanukkah foods, such as latkes and sufganiyot. Investigate their origins, variations, and the cultural importance of consuming these during the festival.
3. Dreidel Origins and Variations:
   
   • Dig into the history of the dreidel game. What are the origins of this Hanukkah tradition, and how has it evolved over time? Are there regional variations in how the game is played?
4. Hanukkah Music and Songs:
   
   • Research traditional Hanukkah songs and music. Explore their origins, lyrics, and the role they play in Hanukkah celebrations. Are there specific melodies associated with the festival?
5. Hanukkah Customs Around the World:
   
   • Investigate how Hanukkah is celebrated in different parts of the world. Are there unique customs or variations in traditions based on cultural influences?
6. Modern Hanukkah Traditions:
   
   • Explore contemporary ways in which people celebrate Hanukkah. How have the traditions evolved or incorporated new elements over time? Are there innovative practices within modern Hanukkah celebrations?
7. Hanukkah Decorations and Art:
   
   • Research the artistic aspects of Hanukkah, including decorations and visual representations. Explore traditional and contemporary Hanukkah art, and consider how it reflects the essence of the festival.
8. Hanukkah and Education:
   
   • Investigate how Hanukkah is incorporated into educational settings. Are there specific lessons, activities, or educational programs designed to teach the significance of Hanukkah?
9. Hanukkah in Literature:
   
   • Explore how Hanukkah is portrayed in literature. Look for Hanukkah-themed books, poems, or stories and analyze how they contribute to the cultural understanding of the festival.
10. Hanukkah Events and Celebrations:
    
    • Research public Hanukkah events, festivals, or gatherings. Explore how communities come together to celebrate Hanukkah on a larger scale and the various activities organized during these events.

Week 3: Limericks and the Art of Humor
Day 1: Decoding Limericks - Activity: Analyze classic limericks for rhythm and humor. - Lecture: Discuss the AABBA rhyme scheme and distinctive rhythm. - Discussion: Share favorite humorous poems and discuss elements that make them funny.
Day 2: Crafting Limericks with Wit - Activity: Write limericks individually, focusing on humor and rhythm. - Lecture: Explore the balance of humor and structure in limericks. - Discussion: Share and discuss individual limericks, highlighting successful elements.
Day 3: Understanding Free Verse - Activity: Analyze free verse poems for structure and expression. - Lecture: Introduce the concept of free verse and its flexibility. - Discussion: Discuss the liberation and challenges of writing without a strict structure.
Day 4: Writing Exercise - Expressing Emotions in Free Verse - Activity: Explore emotions and write a free verse poem. - Assignment: Craft a free verse poem exploring a personal experience or emotion. - Vocabulary Words: Enjambment, Cadence, Anapest.
Day 5: Peer Review and Feedback - Activity: Peer review workshop for free verse poems. - Lecture: Discuss the artistic freedom and impact of free verse. - Discussion: Share insights gained from reviewing peers' free verse poems.
Study Guide Questions for Week 3: 1. What defines a limerick, and how does its rhythm contribute to its humor? 2. Discuss the importance of the AABBA rhyme scheme in limericks. 3. How does free verse differ from structured forms of poetry? 4. Explore the challenges and benefits of writing without a strict form in free verse. 5. Reflect on the emotions and experiences expressed in your free verse poem.
Quiz: Assessment on limericks, the AABBA rhyme scheme, and the principles of free verse.
Week 4: Free Verse and Acrostic Poetry
Day 1: Embracing Free Verse - Activity: Analyze diverse free verse poems for individual expression. - Lecture: Discuss famous free verse poets and their impact on the genre. - Discussion: Share personal reactions to the artistic freedom of free verse.
Day 2: Crafting Emotion in Free Verse - Activity: Write a free verse poem expressing a specific emotion. - Lecture: Explore the role of emotions in free verse and the use of vivid imagery. - Discussion: Share and discuss individual poems, highlighting emotional impact.
Day 3: Understanding Acrostic Poetry - Activity: Analyze acrostic poems for clever wordplay. - Lecture: Explain the concept of acrostic poetry and its various forms. - Discussion: Share examples of creative acrostic poems.
Day 4: Writing Exercise - Personal Acrostic - Activity: Craft an acrostic poem using your name or a chosen word. - Assignment: Write an acrostic poem exploring a theme or concept. - Vocabulary Words: Strophe, Stanza, Consonance.
Day 5: Peer Review and Feedback - Activity: Peer review workshop for acrostic poems. - Lecture: Discuss the playfulness and creativity of acrostic poetry. - Discussion: Share insights gained from reviewing peers' acrostic poems.
Study Guide Questions for Week 4: 1. Explore the role of emotions in free verse poetry. How does it differ from structured forms? 2. Discuss the impact of vivid imagery in free verse. How does it contribute to the overall message? 3. What defines acrostic poetry, and how is it different from other forms? 4. How can clever wordplay enhance the impact of an acrostic poem? 5. Reflect on the creative process and thematic exploration in your acrostic poem.
Quiz: Assessment on understanding free verse, emotional expression in poetry, and the principles of acrostic poetry.

The last song on each album are hints of what's to come. Doubt I'm the first to think of this, so forgive me if that's the case. Either way...
Bear with me...
I believe that Tool's next album or at least one of its songs will be about nature, specifically man's bastardization of it.
Let's look at the last song on each album.
Opiate (EP): Opiate? Wrong, The Gaping Lotus Experience, but let's come back to that...
Undertow: Disgustipated - What clears up constipation? An Enima.
Aenima: Third Eye - It's on the cover art of Lateralus and a pretty predominant theme.
Lateralus: Faaip de Oiad - Area 51, rambling about aliens, need I say more?
10,000 Days: Viginti Tres - A poem about fear, specifically for the end of the world (Global Pandemic bonus points here)
Fear Inoculum: Mockingbeat...
Before we speculate, back to Gaping Lotus. There is hidden meaning in Tool. This is factual right out of the gate as they literally hid a song behind a wall of silence on Opiate, the EP and the song, in case it wasn't obvious enough. The Gaping Lotus Experience is the Tool experience. It is hidden, but seeking it out is kinda dumb, but it is there. And frankly, it feels good to find meaning. Perhaps that is enough to understand what Tool is about, but coating their entire artistic direction in thick irony over decades of hard work is an accomplishment to say the least. We are tools for finding this shit, but they are tools for hiding it. So just shut the fuck up and enjoy Tool I guess. Sometimes they, and we, are gaping assholes. Sometimes they, and we, are more like a delicate lotus. It is what they have always been and they knew it right from the start.
Now back to speculation, Mockingbeat. We've got synths, electronics, birds. We've got a little beat in there too. The beat feels intentionally tribal. I believe that Tool's next album will be about nature, specifically man's bastardization of it. As a fan, I can't help but feel it a perfect theme for a Maynard poem over the guys rhythmic and melodic interpretations of the concept.
Maybe I'm crazy, but we know they jam songs out for a long time before they are ready. They show us live sometimes. They could easily have enough stuff in the oven when working on an album that we won't hear until the next, to inspire a hidden hint on the current. I wouldn't put it past them.

Week 7: Limericks and Acrostic Poetry - Lecture and Discussion
Objective: - Explore the whimsical nature of limericks and the creative use of acrostic poetry. - Understand the structure and humor in limericks. - Discuss the artistic possibilities of using acrostic forms.
Day 1: Introduction to Limericks - Lecture: - Definition and characteristics of limericks. - Explanation of the AABBA rhyme scheme and humorous themes.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What appeals to you about the whimsical nature of limericks?
  2. How does the AABBA rhyme scheme contribute to the humor in limericks?
  3. Can you think of any famous limericks or poets known for this style?

Day 2: Analyzing Limericks - Part 1 - Lecture: - In-depth analysis of classic limericks. - Exploration of the distinctive rhythm and structure.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How does the AABBA rhyme scheme and rhythm contribute to the comedic timing in limericks?
  2. What humorous themes or scenarios are commonly found in limericks?
  3. Share your thoughts on the importance of concise storytelling in limericks.

Day 3: Analyzing Limericks - Part 2 - Lecture: - Discussing modern variations and themes in limericks. - Exploring the versatility of the form.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How have modern limericks evolved in terms of themes and structure?
  2. In what ways does the whimsical nature of limericks allow for creative expression?
  3. Share examples of humorous scenarios that might work well in a limerick.

Day 4: Crafting Limericks - Part 1 - Lecture: - Step-by-step guide on crafting the first three lines of a limerick. - Emphasis on establishing humor and rhythm.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What challenges do you anticipate in crafting the first three lines of a limerick?
  2. How can you establish humor and rhythm within the concise structure?
  3. Share examples of humorous scenarios you might explore in a limerick.

Day 5: Crafting Limericks - Part 2 - Lecture: - Step-by-step guide on crafting the final two lines of a limerick. - Emphasis on creating resolution and punchline.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. Why are the final two lines crucial in providing resolution and a punchline in a limerick?
  2. How can a limerick deliver a humorous twist or surprise within its structure?
  3. Share and discuss individual limericks, highlighting successful elements.

Homework Assignment: - Craft a limerick focusing on a humorous scenario or theme.
Study Guide Questions: 1. Reflect on the challenges of crafting the first three lines of your limerick. How did you establish humor and rhythm? 2. How did you approach creating resolution and a punchline in the final two lines of your limerick? 3. What insights did you gain from the process of crafting a limerick?
Quiz: Assessment on the understanding of limericks, their AABBA rhyme scheme, and the use of humor within the concise form.
Day 6: Introduction to Acrostic Poetry - Lecture: - Definition and characteristics of acrostic poetry. - Exploration of arranging words vertically to create hidden messages.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What interests you about the creative use of acrostic forms?
  2. How might the arrangement of words vertically enhance the poetic experience in acrostic poetry?
  3. Can you think of any famous acrostic poems or poets known for this style?

Day 7: Analyzing Acrostic Poetry - Part 1 - Lecture: - In-depth analysis of classic acrostic poems. - Exploration of the different approaches to selecting and arranging words.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How does the vertical arrangement of words contribute to the overall impact of acrostic poetry?
  2. What unique perspectives or insights can arise from using acrostic forms in poetry?
  3. Share your thoughts on the relationship between the hidden message and the overall theme in acrostic poems.

Day 8: Analyzing Acrostic Poetry - Part 2 - Lecture: - Discussing modern variations and themes in acrostic poetry. - Exploring the diverse ways poets engage with vertical arrangements.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How have modern poets expanded the themes and approaches in acrostic poetry?
  2. In what ways does the incorporation of vertical arrangements broaden the possibilities in written expression?
  3. Share examples of themes or concepts suitable for acrostic poetry.

Week 4: Sestinas and Concrete Poetry - Lecture and Discussion
Objective: - Explore the intricate structure of sestinas and the visual creativity of concrete poetry. - Understand the fixed pattern of word repetition in sestinas. - Discuss the artistic possibilities of arranging words visually in concrete poetry.
Day 1: Introduction to Sestinas - Lecture: - Definition and characteristics of sestinas. - Explanation of the intricate word repetition pattern.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What intrigues you about the intricate structure of sestinas?
  2. How does the repetition pattern contribute to the unique rhythm of sestinas?
  3. Can you think of any famous sestinas or poets known for this style?

Day 2: Analyzing Sestinas - Part 1 - Lecture: - In-depth analysis of classic sestinas. - Exploration of the challenge and beauty of word repetition.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How does the repetition pattern influence the overall rhythm and impact of sestinas?
  2. What themes or emotions are effectively conveyed through this structured form?
  3. Share your thoughts on the significance of word repetition in sestinas.

Day 3: Analyzing Sestinas - Part 2 - Lecture: - Discussing modern variations and themes in sestinas. - Exploring the flexibility of the form.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How have modern sestinas evolved in terms of themes and structure?
  2. In what ways does the fixed pattern of word repetition challenge or enhance creativity?
  3. Share examples of themes or emotions suitable for a sestina.

Day 4: Crafting Sestinas - Part 1 - Lecture: - Step-by-step guide on crafting the first three stanzas of a sestina. - Emphasis on establishing thematic threads through word repetition.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What challenges do you anticipate in crafting the first three stanzas of a sestina?
  2. How can you establish thematic threads through word repetition in this section?
  3. Share examples of themes or emotions you might explore in a sestina.

Day 5: Crafting Sestinas - Part 2 - Lecture: - Step-by-step guide on completing the final three stanzas and envoi of a sestina. - Emphasis on creating resolution and impact.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. Why is the envoi and final three stanzas crucial in providing resolution in a sestina?
  2. How can a sestina evoke a sense of completeness within the repeated words?
  3. Share and discuss individual sestinas, highlighting successful elements.

Homework Assignment: - Craft a sestina focusing on a theme or emotion that lends itself well to word repetition.
Study Guide Questions: 1. Reflect on the challenges of crafting the first three stanzas of your sestina. How did you establish thematic threads through word repetition? 2. How did you approach creating resolution and impact in the final three stanzas and envoi of your sestina? 3. What insights did you gain from the process of crafting a sestina?
Quiz: Assessment on the understanding of sestinas, the word repetition pattern, and the emotional impact of this intricate form.
Day 6: Introduction to Concrete Poetry - Lecture: - Definition and characteristics of concrete poetry. - Exploration of arranging words visually to create a visual impact.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What interests you about the visual creativity of concrete poetry?
  2. How might the arrangement of words visually enhance the poetic experience?
  3. Can you think of any famous concrete poems or poets known for this style?

Day 7: Analyzing Concrete Poetry - Part 1 - Lecture: - In-depth analysis of classic concrete poems. - Exploration of the ways visual arrangement enhances meaning.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How does the visual arrangement of words contribute to the overall impact of concrete poetry?
  2. What unique perspectives or insights can arise from the visual creativity in these poems?
  3. Share your thoughts on the relationship between form and content in concrete poetry.

Day 8: Analyzing Concrete Poetry - Part 2 - Lecture: - Discussing modern variations and themes in concrete poetry. - Exploring the diverse ways poets engage with visual arrangements.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. How have modern poets expanded the themes and approaches in concrete poetry?
  2. In what ways does the incorporation of visual arrangements broaden the possibilities in written expression?
  3. Share examples of visual arrangements that you believe would inspire compelling concrete poems.

Day 9: Crafting Concrete Poetry - Part 1 - Lecture: - Step-by-step guide on selecting a theme and arranging words visually. - Emphasis on creating meaning through form.

• Discussion Questions:
  1. What challenges do you anticipate in selecting a theme and arranging words visually for concrete poetry?
  2. How can you ensure that the visual arrangement enhances the meaning of your poem?
  3. Share examples of themes or concepts suitable for a concrete poem.

Day 10: Crafting Concrete Poetry - Part 2 - Lecture: - Discussing the role of experimentation and creativity in concrete poetry.

Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life (2011) is not an easy film to watch. It's demanding, even enigmatic.But it's also rich and rewarding.
Early on we meet a married couple in 1960s Texas who get a telegram with some devastating news, leading to unimaginable grief. But what has happened? We're not told exactly, although if we're attentive we eventually get the impression that one of three children has died. But who, and how, and why? We don't know. Then there's a middle-aged man in a modern world who seems dazed and confused. Who is he, and how exactly does he relate to the couple in the beginning? Again, it’s all still somewhat of a mystery, and it’s up to us to put the pieces of this puzzle together ourselves, if we can.
If that isn't enough to make our head spin, after the film returns briefly to the grieving couple, we then get more than 20 minutes of visuals and sounds. They seem to comprise distant galaxies and stars, multiplying cells, cascading waters, creatures beneath the sea, and even primeval reptiles from the beginning of time. It all baffles us just as much as it amazes us. By the time the extensive sequence of cosmic and natural images finally ends, and we return to the couple, we're more than perplexed. Now we see them in love, expecting, receiving, and raising children. Is this the moment the loss happened?
As I said, this is not an easy film to watch, and it makes high demands on the viewer. The director doesn't hold our hand and explain things, and for much of the time leaves us on our own to figure things out for ourselves. Let’s be honest: much of this is quickly going to put off the average viewer. It doesn't help that not only are there plenty of riddles, but there's also little narrative. Initially I found myself with very little idea of what was going on, and thoroughly perplexed.
Despite this, “The Tree of Life” is a film that has received high praise from discerning critics. Is this a case of the Emperor's New Clothes, and where the artistry is more real than imagined? I persisted with the film, and I’m glad I did. Because this emperor isn't naked, and he's wearing much more than a fig leaf. This film is a work of art that will reward the person willing to put in the effort to understand and appreciate what's going on. As such it's much like other works of art, whether an epic poem or an abstract painting, all of which may feel inaccessible at first, and which the average person won't readily admire or enjoy. Appreciating these requires time, effort, and asking questions. It's like a solid meal that requires a lot of chewing. And “The Tree of Life” does give us a lot to chew on.
To be fair, I came into the film completely blind, which was a deliberate choice on my part, because I wanted to judge it on its own merits, and see what it had to say for itself. Perhaps if I'd read in advance the promotional blurb that pitches the film to would-be viewers, things would have made a bit more sense. From that we learn that the main character is Jack O'Brien, and he's the middle-aged man in the modern world at the start and the end of the movie. By the end of the film, we are able to piece together some parts of the puzzle: Jack is one of three boys, it's his brother J.R. who dies at aged 19, and the film is really a giant flashback to the 1950s and 1960s, depicting Jack and his complicated relationship with his disciplinarian father, and equally as important: his complicated relationship with God in a fallen world.
Jack’s childhood is a time of innocence but also corruption, as he grows up with his two brothers. As he leaves behind the naivety of childhood, he struggles with thoughts of rebellion and with questions about his faith. We see Jack commit vandalism, hurt other children, and even steal a woman's nightgown. Wherever he looks, he sees a world damaged and corrupted by sin. He sees it in the handicaps and hurts experienced by others, he also sees it in his father, and he even sees it in himself. It's a world in need of redemption. As he witnesses the inconsistencies of his father, and tragedies like the drowning of a child, it’s no wonder he asks God: "Where were You? You let a boy die. You let anything happen. Why should I be good?" It’s similar to the question his mother asks when she loses her own son, but it will be much harder for Jack to come to the same place of faith and trust she has.
The more we chew and ponder afterwards, more pieces of the puzzle start falling into place. At that point we begin to understand that the questions Jack's parents ask upon the death of their son are much like ones Jack himself asks. His questions are really the same ones that his father has about life in a fallen world: “Wrong people go hungry, die. Wrong people get loved.” How can God allow this? It's a deeply theological question, and the film makes no secret of the fact that it borrows the answer from the book of Job. In fact, a key verse from God's answer to Job opens the movie (Job 38:4-7). God's answer isn't geared to answer the problem of evil, but to teach us how to respond to it. By confronting Job and us with His majesty as the Creator God, God’s aim isn’t to enlighten us to His purposes, but to bring us to worship. We must simply come to see Him and His power, and live in faith and trust. Malick seems to be urging us to embrace this same perspective.
That explains the lengthy cosmological "creation" sequence, which comes right after Jack’s grieving mother wonders where God was in all the pain and loss: "Lord why? Where were you?" she asks, “Did you know? Who are we to you? Answer me.” Effectively the film offers us the Creator God's rhetorical questions from Job 38 in response: "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the Earth? ... When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" The film puts us in Job’s shoes and helps us journey to the beginnings of the universe to help bring us to the perspective of faith and humility we need. It's when middle-aged Jack comes to learn this truth, that he can enter through the door of faith, and fractured relationships can be restored, as the end of the film shows.
In the process of asking and answering these questions, the film draws deeply on religious themes and Christian imagery. The tree of life from the title is the most obvious. There are motifs of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation, and an argument can even be made that this framework becomes the skeleton of the film's overall structure. The film is soaked with whispered prayers, as both Jack and his parents voice their questions and struggles to God. It's also replete with Biblical references, with direct references to the qualities of love prescribed by 1 Corinthians 13, and to the struggle with indwelling sin described by the apostle Paul in Romans 7, now depicted as a reality in Jack's life. There are constant images relating to death and resurrection. And even though Jesus Christ isn't explicitly mentioned in the film, the cross appears numerous times as part of the background imagery. It's been suggested that the tree of life used as a motif by the film points both to the paradise lost through the fall, as well as to paradise regained through Jesus Christ, and thus ultimately to the branch of David - Jesus - that connects the two.
A contrast between nature and grace is also evident throughout the film. This is explicitly set up by the opening monologue which includes these lines: “The nuns taught us there are two ways through life, the way of Nature and the way of Grace. You have to choose which one you’ll follow. Grace doesn’t try to please itself. Accepts being slighted, forgotten, disliked. Accepts insults and injuries. Nature only wants to please itself. Get others to please it too. Likes to lord it over them. To have its own way. It finds reasons to be unhappy when all the world is shining around it. And love is smiling through all things.”
Jack’s mother is the embodiment of Grace, and exudes love and warmth. In contrast, Jack’s father is the embodiment of Nature, and pursues wealth and greatness by trying to achieve material success as a self-made man: “You make yourself what you are.” These two opposing forces clash in Jack’s heart and life, since he is the offspring of both. But although the seeds of ruin are present within him, redemption is possible. Even Jack's father finds redemption when he comes to a place of humility by acknowledging his selfish pride: "I wanted to be loved because I’m great, a big man. I’m nothing. Look: the glory around us, the trees, the birds. I lived in shame. I dishonored it all and didn’t notice the glory. A foolish man.”
But even though Malick is a Catholic Christian, he doesn’t want the church to be under the pretension that it can answer all the questions to life’s mysteries. What are we to make of the fact that the same nuns who taught the church’s children to embrace the way of grace rather than the way of nature, also "taught us that no one who ever loves the way of grace ever comes to a bad end". In “The Tree of Life”, Malick wants us to realize that this last statement is not true, and that bad things can happen to good people. But when the brokenness of life is experienced, faith can still find hope by turning to the larger cosmic picture of a universe controlled by a majestic God, which is the perspective God brought Job to. Malick wants to bring us there too, and to embrace a lifestyle of Grace: "Help each other. Love everyone. Every leaf. Every ray of light. Forgive."
Despite the above insights, aspects of this film will remain somewhat puzzling and elusive, even after multiple viewings. Malick is a committed Catholic, but he's an artist before he's a theologian, and it's to the craft of his artistry that he dedicates his real focus, so he’s not about to give a commentary explaining everything for us. He himself hasn't given interviews about his films for decades, so if we're going to get to the bottom of everything, we're going to have to figure it out ourselves. Fortunately, help is at hand. Peter J. Leithart's book "Shining Glory: Theological Reflections on Terrence Malick’s Tree of Life" is going to be of enormous assistance if you're really dedicated to turning over every stone to be found in the film.
But if the references to Job do make one thing quite clear, it is that Malick wants us to end up where Job does: with the liturgy of worship, and adoration of the Creator. Perhaps this is also why music plays such an important role in the film, and throughout we are treated to a majestic soundtrack that includes many famous classical pieces. For us, stepping through the door of faith involves humility and songs of humble worship.
It has to be admitted that while the film asks big questions about evil, about God, and about faith, and while it does offer wisdom from Job in answering them, it also seems to leave many questions unanswered. What role does Jesus Christ play in bringing about redemption, and why is this at best only hinted at? And surely there is more to a personal relationship with God than religious rituals, and looking up vaguely to the sky in creature-like submission to a distant Creator? Some have even suggested that the God of this film resembles a pagan god just as much as the Christian God. And is the dualism between nature and grace a distinction that is theologically sound, or does it owe more to Roman Catholic tradition than to the Bible? I’m not going to attempt to answer these questions here, but I find myself identifying with some of them.
And if I had a criticism about the lengthy creation sequence, it would be to question Malick’s choice to feature aquatics like the nudibranch sea slug and the amphibious axolotl. He seems to give room for an evolutionary beginning to the universe, given the role these creatures play in modern scientific theory about origins. But one can easily overlook that and just see this part of the film as a depiction of the beginnings of the universe, shaped in a way that defies explanation or comprehensive, and leads only to amazement and awe.
The ending has also been the subject of a lot of criticism from some quarters. What are we to make of Jack stepping through a door into a beach scene populated with all the characters of the film, now reconciled and in harmony? Does this refer to Jack's spiritual awakening and embracing of faith, or is it a reference to the final resurrection and the eternal glory of the afterlife? If it is the latter, some have suggested tongue-in-cheek that Malick's version of heaven looks rather boring and austere, and who would even want to go there.
But judging more charitably, what is clear is that this is a place where redemption and restoration happens, and where the pain of the past is gone, now that Jack has been led to see the wonder and grandeur of God. With this interpretation, it is more satisfying to see this conclusion not as an image of the afterlife, but as a return to faith, which is a place where relationships can be rebuilt, and tranquility can be found. This understanding of the closing scenes also makes best sense of the film’s over-arching structure, as a story which begins with adult Jack describing his spiritual isolation and wondering about his loss of faith: “How did I lose you? Wandered. Forgot you.” By the extended flashback to his childhood that forms the centerpiece of the film, his faith is restored.
Ultimately his renewed faith is not fundamentally different from the faith of his mother. This makes the question Jack near the beginning about his mother so pivotal: “How did she bear it?” She had to journey the same path as he did, by seeing the Creator. That’s why the ending brings us not just to a place where Jack in faith finds forgiveness and restoration with his loved ones. It is equally a place where Jack’s mother can in the same faith hand over to God the son she’s lost: “I give him to you, I give you my son.” Could these scenes all have been more vivid and enchanting? Maybe, but if it’s a picture of faith and renewal rather than of the afterlife, then it does enough to achieve that.
The film still remains somewhat obscure, and first-time viewers should be given a helping hand to make things slightly more accessible. To have the best chance of enjoying the film the first time around, I recommend at the very least reading the promotional blurb to help them get some orientation for interpreting the visual feast they’re about to see, and also watching with subtitles on so that nothing is missed, since the dialogue is so minimal and every word is so important.
A review of this film would be incomplete without saying something about the directing and how “The Tree of Life” stands up artistically. This is the first film I've seen by Malick, but it doesn't take long to realize that he's a master of his craft, and enjoys stretching the boundaries of artistry. The camera angles he uses invite you to step right into his world and to explore firsthand the visuals on the screen in front of you. Handheld cameras are often used with a stunning impact. He avoids bright colours, often opting to use natural lighting, so that nothing distracts from the faces of the characters. Window lighting plays an important role here too. The moments of childhood are depicted with care and beauty, and capture a real sense of innocence, nostalgia, and memory, which will only make the introduction of tragedy and depravity all the more painful.
There are also frequent instances where we find ourselves absorbed with flowing or spraying water, blowing curtains, stairways upward, and floating bodies. It's a style that reminded me at times of the great Russian film director Andrei Tarkovsky. Even for the lengthy creation sequence, Malic opted not to employ the traditional beauty of cliches like a classic sunset, which for him would be too obvious, or for purely digital computer-generated special effects, which for him would be too artificial and constrained. Instead, many of the striking visuals were created with things like chemicals, paints, fluids, and spin dishes, which help incorporate the creative, the unpredictable, and the unexpected. It helps produce a sense of wonder and awe, by confronting us with things we’ve never seen before. And the acting is terrific, and particularly the scenes of the boys playing exude a sense of spontaneity and authenticity. Artistically, I can see this being the kind of film in years to come that will only grow in stature and reputation, and that students of arthouse cinema will be assigned to study as one of the greatest of its time.
Even after all this chewing, we're still left wondering a lot about the film, and it feels like there are still a lot of unexplained mysteries. “The Tree of Life” feels like a vast work of impressionism, with a constant barrage of visual images, many of which just appear for a few moments, and then vanish, leaving us to wonder about their significance: a butterfly, a bride, a lamp, an open gate, two wrapped corpses, a sinking mask, swirling kelp. What’s the significance of the scenes with the tall man and child in the attic? Who are the two women besides Jack’s mother in the closing scenes of the film? All these details must be important, surely, otherwise the director wouldn't have included them. If you’re keen, you can watch the extended cut of the film (which Malick considered an “alternative” version of the film rather than its definitive form), which has an extra 50 minutes of such material to marvel over.
Some find themselves coming away from the film with frustration on account of these poetic enigmas and the puzzling collection of cinematic images, as well as the lack of narrative and minimal dialogue. But the fact that aspects of this film are undeniably obscure and will remain incomprehensible to some viewers doesn't turn “The Tree of Life” into the Emperor's New Clothes. If it was that, we wouldn’t really care about the answers to the questions that this film makes us ask, whereas this film makes us desperately wanting answers.
Perhaps there’s a lesson even in the ongoing mystery. Part of our own redemption requires us to have the humility to acknowledge that we can’t understand or explain everything in life. Job responded to God's self-revelation of majesty with faith, and that’s where we need to end up too. Some viewers will remain much like how Jack's father was: they don't notice the glory, even though it is staring them in the face. This will leave them describing this film as achingly slow, and even as self-absorbed and pretentious, buckling under the weight of inexplicable poetry. But that shouldn’t prevent those of us with eyes to see enjoying it for what it is. Little wonder that other critics evangelize “The Tree of Life” as one of the greatest movies, and noted film critic Roger Ebert even included it in his top 10 films of all time.
In the end it's okay that we don't understand all the images first time around, because that's what can make a return visit to the film rewarding. “The Tree of Life” is not like a takeaway meal, but it's more like a buffet dinner. There are foods we saw but didn't eat on our first visit, and returning to dine on another occasion will give us more to taste, discover, and enjoy. A second viewing of the film a couple of days later really helped me appreciate things I’d struggled to grasp the first time around. I can understand that many viewers won't make this return visit to the restaurant and will leave the table with a sense of bewilderment and frustration. “The Tree of Life” is not for everyone, because it is outside the realm of most movie making, because rather than being a regular narrative it is bursting with non-verbal impressionism and visual poetry. But for those willing to make the effort, there is some delicious fruit to be found in “The Tree of Life”. And the longer we stay in its branches, the more nourishing it gets.

The War Scroll, also known as the "War of the Sons of Light Against the Sons of Darkness," is a unique text within the Dead Sea Scrolls that portrays an apocalyptic battle between the forces of good (Sons of Light) and evil (Sons of Darkness). This scroll provides insight into both historical and symbolic elements.
Historical Accuracy:
The War Scroll, while containing detailed military tactics and an epic narrative of the ultimate confrontation, doesn't explicitly reference any specific historical event or timeframe. Some scholars believe it could be a product of the community's anticipation of a future messianic conflict or a reflection of their own community's struggles against opposing forces during their time. Interpreting the historical accuracy of the scroll often involves exploring the context of the Qumran community and the turbulent times in which they lived.
Symbolism and Esoteric Wisdom:
The War Scroll goes beyond a mere description of a physical battle. It portrays a cosmic conflict between the forces of light and darkness, reflecting not just a literal warfare but also a symbolic and spiritual struggle. The text emphasizes righteousness, divine intervention, and the victory of good over evil.
Within the study guide, activities and exercises could involve dissecting the symbolic elements present in the War Scroll, exploring the deeper meanings behind the battle tactics and the metaphysical implications of the conflict. Understanding the symbolism could involve group discussions, comparative analysis with other ancient texts with similar themes, and exploring the impact of this symbolic representation on the community's beliefs and practices.
Here are a few activities and exercises to explore the symbolism and historical context of the War Scroll from the Dead Sea Scrolls:

1. Symbolism Analysis:

Provide excerpts from the War Scroll and encourage participants to identify and discuss the symbolic meanings behind elements like the "Sons of Light" and the "Sons of Darkness," various weapons, and the strategies outlined for battle. Group discussions or written reflections can help participants explore the deeper layers of meaning.

1. Comparative Analysis:

Compare the War Scroll's themes with similar apocalyptic or eschatological texts from different cultures or religions, such as apocalyptic passages in the Book of Revelation in the Christian Bible or apocalyptic texts from other ancient traditions. Create worksheets or discussion prompts to highlight similarities and differences in themes, symbols, and beliefs about cosmic battles.

1. Historical Context Exploration:

Present historical information about the era when the Dead Sea Scrolls were written. Discuss the political, social, and religious climate of that time, including the turmoil in the region, to understand how these factors might have influenced the composition of the War Scroll. Encourage participants to consider the possible motivations behind the text's creation.

1. Creative Interpretation:

Encourage creative expression by asking participants to create artwork, poems, or short stories inspired by the themes and imagery found in the War Scroll. This exercise allows individuals to engage more deeply with the symbolic elements and interpret them in their own unique ways.

1. Role-playing or Debates:
   Organize a role-playing activity where participants take on the roles of "Sons of Light" and "Sons of Darkness," debating their ideologies, motivations, and strategies for the ultimate battle. This exercise helps in understanding differing perspectives and interpreting the conflicts presented in the scroll.
   

Interpretative variations regarding the river's crossing in different ancient texts reflect the unique religious, philosophical, and cultural perspectives embedded within these narratives. These differences in interpretation offer insights into diverse worldviews and varying theological frameworks present in ancient texts:

1. Mesopotamian Context:

• In Mesopotamian mythology and literature, the Euphrates River often held symbolic significance as a boundary between the known civilized world and the wild, unknown realms. The crossing of the Euphrates could symbolize journeys into unexplored territories or transitions between order and chaos. This perspective reflects a worldview rooted in the physical and geographical division of lands.

1. Biblical Context:

• In biblical texts, such as those in the Book of Revelation or Old Testament prophecies, the crossing of the Euphrates carries eschatological significance. It may represent a divine intervention or a decisive moment in God's plan, marking the commencement of apocalyptic events. This interpretation aligns with the biblical narrative of divine judgment and the unfolding of God's ultimate purpose in history.

1. Gnostic or Apocryphal Context:

• Gnostic or apocryphal texts often interpret the river's crossing as a symbolic liberation or awakening. It might signify the release of spiritual forces or the ascent to higher consciousness, reflecting a philosophical perspective emphasizing spiritual enlightenment and liberation from material constraints.

1. Greco-Roman Interpretation:

• In Greco-Roman literature, crossings of rivers were often associated with mythological journeys or transitions between realms. The crossing of the Euphrates might symbolize a transition from mundane existence to a realm of mystery or spiritual significance, reflecting a cultural perspective rooted in mythology and cosmology.

These varied interpretations highlight the richness and diversity of religious, philosophical, and cultural frameworks present in ancient texts. The river's crossing serves as a flexible symbol that adapts to different narratives, conveying themes of transition, judgment, liberation, or cosmic transformation based on the unique perspectives of each tradition.
Exploring these interpretative variations allows participants to appreciate the complexity of symbolism within ancient texts and provides insights into how different cultures and belief systems interpreted common motifs like the river Euphrates. It showcases the intricate interplay between religious, philosophical, and cultural elements shaping the symbolism and theological implications embedded in these narratives.
The river Euphrates, a prominent geographic feature in ancient texts, embodies universal themes that transcend specific cultural contexts. Identifying these universal themes helps reveal shared human concepts of transition, boundaries, and transformative events across diverse ancient traditions:

1. Threshold and Transition:

• The Euphrates often symbolizes a boundary between known and unknown territories. Its crossing represents a transition from one state to another, signifying a pivotal moment of change or passage. This theme of crossing a threshold echoes the human experience of transitions in life, moving from familiar to unfamiliar realms.

1. Boundary and Separation:

• As a geographical boundary, the Euphrates signifies separation between distinct territories or civilizations. This concept of demarcation resonates with universal human experiences of setting boundaries, delineating spaces, or marking divisions between different aspects of life.

1. Transformative Events:

• Crossing the Euphrates is often associated with cosmic or transformative events in ancient texts. This universal theme reflects the human fascination with the concept of epochal change, cosmic upheavals, or moments of divine intervention that reshape the course of history.

1. Symbol of Power and Control:

• The river might represent a symbol of power, control, or geopolitical significance. Crossing it could signify shifts in dominance, challenges to established authority, or the assertion of influence. This theme resonates with human narratives of power struggles and shifts in societal dynamics.

1. Metaphor for Spiritual Journeys:

• Across cultures, rivers are often used metaphorically to represent spiritual journeys or quests. The crossing of the Euphrates might symbolize the pursuit of enlightenment, the passage to higher realms of understanding, or the quest for spiritual transformation.

These universal themes associated with the river Euphrates highlight fundamental aspects of the human experience—transitions, boundaries, transformative events, power dynamics, and spiritual journeys. The river's symbolism in ancient texts speaks to shared human aspirations, struggles, and beliefs that transcend cultural boundaries and resonate across different epochs and civilizations.
By identifying and discussing these universal themes, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the profound symbolism embedded in ancient texts and recognize the timeless relevance of concepts such as transition, boundaries, and transformative events in shaping human narratives and aspirations.

1. Historical Context:

• What historical events or societal conditions might have influenced the composition of the War Scroll?
  
• How does the historical context of the Dead Sea Scrolls' discovery contribute to our understanding of this text's significance?
  

1. Symbolism and Esoteric Wisdom:

• How does the War Scroll use symbolism to convey spiritual or cosmic themes?
  
• What esoteric wisdom or deeper spiritual insights can be derived from the portrayal of cosmic conflict and divine intervention within the text?
  

1. Comparative Analysis:

• Compare the themes and symbolism of the War Scroll with other apocalyptic texts from different cultures (e.g., Book of Revelation, The Book of Daniel). What common motifs or differences in interpretation do you observe?

1. Parallelism in Biblical Texts:

• Explore connections between the War Scroll and other biblical texts. How does the language, imagery, or themes in the War Scroll intersect with passages from the Hebrew Bible or New Testament?

1. Community Beliefs and Practices:

• How might the apocalyptic expectations depicted in the War Scroll have influenced the beliefs and practices of the community that produced it?
  
• Discuss the impact of such intense anticipation of cosmic conflict on communal life and religious rituals within the community.
  

1. Cultural Significance of Cosmic Battles:

• Across various ancient cultures, why do you think depictions of cosmic battles and eschatological events were significant? What might these narratives represent in a broader cultural context?

1. Interpretive Variations and Unique Perspectives:

• Explore the diverse interpretations of specific passages or symbols within the War Scroll. How do different scholars or traditions interpret these elements, and what underlying factors might influence their interpretations?

1. Personal Reflection and Modern Relevance:

• Reflect on how the themes of cosmic conflict, righteousness, and spiritual warfare in the War Scroll might resonate in contemporary society or personal belief systems.

1. Theological and Philosophical Implications:

• Discuss the theological and philosophical implications of a cosmic battle between forces of light and darkness. How does this theme intersect with broader philosophical inquiries or theological doctrines?

1. Literary and Symbolic Analysis:

- Analyze the narrative structure and symbolic elements present in specific passages of the War Scroll. How do these elements contribute to the text's overarching themes and meanings? 

These study questions aim to provoke critical thinking, promote in-depth exploration of themes, encourage comparative analysis, and stimulate discussions on the multifaceted nature of the War Scroll's content and its significance within ancient and contemporary contexts.

1. Archaeological and Linguistic Analysis:

- How does the physical condition of the Dead Sea Scrolls, including the War Scroll, impact our understanding of their preservation and historical context? - Discuss the linguistic peculiarities or unique textual features found within the War Scroll and their implications for translation and interpretation. 

1. Apocalyptic Expectations and Messianic Concepts:

- Explore the portrayal of messianic figures or anticipated saviors within the War Scroll. How do these concepts align with or diverge from contemporary expectations of a messianic figure in other ancient texts or religious traditions? 

1. Impact of Apocalyptic Literature:

- Analyze the enduring influence of apocalyptic literature, such as the War Scroll, on subsequent religious, literary, or cultural traditions. How have these texts shaped later beliefs or inspired artistic and literary works? 

1. Ethical and Moral Frameworks:

- Discuss the ethical or moral implications of the cosmic conflict depicted in the War Scroll. How do the themes of righteousness and wickedness contribute to the text's underlying moral framework? 

1. Role of Prophecy and Revelation:

- Explore the role of prophecy and revelation within the War Scroll. How do the prophetic elements contribute to the text's portrayal of future events and cosmic justice? 

1. Experiential and Ritualistic Elements:

- Investigate potential ritualistic or experiential dimensions associated with the teachings or beliefs conveyed in the War Scroll. How might the community have engaged with these teachings in their religious practices or communal activities? 

1. Literary Genre and Interpretation:

- Discuss the classification of the War Scroll within the broader genre of apocalyptic literature. How does its classification influence our understanding and interpretation of its themes and symbolic elements? 

1. Relevance in Modern Scholarship:

- Reflect on the ongoing scholarly debates or discoveries related to the War Scroll. How have modern interpretations evolved, and what implications do these new perspectives have on our understanding of the text? 

1. Intersection of Faith and Scholarship:

- Consider the interplay between faith-based interpretations and scholarly analyses of the War Scroll. How might religious convictions or theological frameworks influence academic research and vice versa? 

1. Future Research and Interpretative Avenues:

- Propose potential avenues for future research or areas of exploration concerning the War Scroll. What unanswered questions or unexplored aspects merit further investigation? 

The composition of the War Scroll, along with other Dead Sea Scrolls, was likely influenced by several historical events and societal conditions prevalent during the time of its writing, which is estimated to be between the 2nd century BCE and the 1st century CE:

1. Hellenistic Rule and Cultural Influence:

• The region where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found was under Hellenistic influence due to the conquests of Alexander the Great and the subsequent control by the Seleucid Empire. This era saw a clash between Hellenistic culture and Jewish traditions, leading to cultural tensions and a desire to preserve religious and cultural heritage.

1. Political Turmoil and Resistance Movements:

• The Jewish people experienced political unrest, particularly during the Maccabean Revolt against Seleucid rule. This period was characterized by resistance movements, attempts to preserve Jewish identity, and fervent anticipation of a messianic figure to deliver them from foreign oppression.

1. Religious Sects and Spiritual Expectations:

• Various religious sects existed within Judaism, each with its own interpretations and expectations of messianic redemption, purity laws, and theological doctrines. The community associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls, often believed to be the Essenes, likely had distinctive theological beliefs and a strong apocalyptic worldview.

1. Anticipation of Cosmic Redemption:

• There was a widespread belief in the imminent arrival of a messianic figure or a divine intervention that would bring about cosmic redemption, ushering in an era of righteousness and divine rule. This anticipation of apocalyptic events and a cosmic battle between forces of light and darkness is reflected in the War Scroll's themes.

Regarding the historical context of the Dead Sea Scrolls' discovery, its significance lies in multiple facets:

1. Preservation of Ancient Texts:

• The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, including the War Scroll, provided an invaluable collection of ancient manuscripts that significantly expanded our understanding of ancient Jewish texts, religious beliefs, and the diversity of Jewish thought during the Second Temple period.

1. Insights into Jewish Sectarianism:

• The scrolls shed light on the diversity of beliefs and practices among Jewish sects during that time. Understanding the beliefs and expectations of the community associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls helps contextualize the theological and apocalyptic themes present in the War Scroll.

1. Confirmation of Scriptural Accuracy:

• The Dead Sea Scrolls' discovery contributed to confirming the accuracy and preservation of certain biblical texts, highlighting the continuity of textual transmission across centuries and supporting the authenticity of biblical manuscripts.

1. Impact on Biblical Studies and Scholarship:

• The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls revolutionized biblical studies, providing scholars with invaluable primary sources for studying ancient Judaism, the development of biblical texts, and the context in which these texts were composed.

The historical context of political upheaval, religious expectations, and the preservation of texts within the Dead Sea Scrolls contributes significantly to understanding the milieu in which the War Scroll was written. It provides a backdrop against which the themes of cosmic conflict, eschatological anticipation, and religious fervor within the War Scroll can be comprehended.

Hi. I'm about to start teaching at a new school in September. I also happen to do Slam Poetry and have a really tough time with memorization. So I went to suno (the only ai tool for this as far as I know) and put some of my poems in and asked for "upbeat pop with a female singer" thinking that might help me memorize because I'm actually great at memorizing song lyrics. Well it turned out to be way more fun than I thought. It's not a perfect tool but it's fun to mess with. And the music is catchy.
So here's my vision, I want to have a playlist of songs that explain academic vocabulary that my students need to know. Yes, I understand flocabulary exists. I love flocabulary, but (1) my students actively hate flocabulary, (2) the descriptions of the words in the songs and the explanations are often not tailored to the level my students are at and (3) my students would literally riot if I had flocabulary on in the background of every class because they don't like the actual music.
Here's the thing, I don't listen to any of what my current students are listening to or likely any of what my future students will listen to. This is because I literally get a headache when I hear heavy bass. In my car I turn the bass down as low as it can go. But for that reason I generally steer clear of rap and r&b. I do like some songs in those genres but most of my students would tell me that those songs are bad. For example, I love the music of Hamilton, but that's probably because it's musical-ified and doesn't have a heavy bass. I'm also just very averse to integrating music I don't already know the words. Like whe an artist I like puts out a new album or I find an artist I like and decide to explore their discography, I literally set aside weeks to listen to the album over and over again until I know all the songs at least enough to sing along with 50% of the lyrics. What can I say? It's an adhd thing lol.
So all that to say, what should I put in the prompt box for genre? I'd probably just add "no bass" to it to avoid my brain bleeding out my ears and/or adjust the sound settings on whatever is playing it. What are the 11 to 14 year olds listening to these days. The school I'm going to work in is a small urban district with varying socioeconomic demographics and a large population of spanish speaking students. Before anyone asks I will do an interest assessment when I start school. However, I would like to make at least a few songs to start the year before I meet them. And what students enjoy is not what I'm looking for. I'm looking for what is a neutral genre option that students will not be annoyed by while working. I would love it it kids were listening to my ai masterpieces outside of class time but I have realistic expectations haha.
So what are the tweens listening to these days?

I’m currently 18 years old and live in the UK and I’m struggling to get my life together. After leaving secondary school, I went to an actual college for a bit, but due to my social anxiety, I wasn’t able to make any friends (dropping my friends from secondary school for a petty reason didn’t help much in retrospect) and therefore, my parents pulled me out of it. Since then, I have started an apprenticeship and have been on this course for about 5-6 months now. The job is okay I suppose, I’m learning things I didn’t know before which was always a plus, and in all honesty I’m treated very very well given that my father is my boss. The pay is amazing for someone my age, but all this is ruined by the fact that for one day every week, for the next 4 years, I have to attend a new college specifically for the apprenticeship. I hate this college with a fury that can be compared only to those that ravished Sodom and Gomorrah. I know it’s not much to deal with, one day a week, but I dislike it so much that I’m somethings tempted my the thought of quitting the apprenticeship, yet I’m held back two reasons, I need the money, and it would break my dad’s heart.
I am an incredibly artistic person. I have a bookshelf in my bedroom that’s completely full and books are piling up around the bottom of it. I love to write, poems, random phrases I’ve thought up, and potential scenes for books. I want to find a way to profit off it. I know the obvious way would be to write and publish a book, but that’s impeded by the fact that:

1. I’m 18
   1. I would still have to go to college while I write it
   2. There’s no way it would publish
   3. I have no social media following to promote it
   4. As much as I love writing, I don’t know if I could write a full novel, given that I’ve never tried before

I just want to do what I love and try to make a living in this god-awful world. I just want to know if there’s any things I can do to monetise off my writing or if there’s some sort of website I can publish things.
It’s the night before I go to college again and I can feel my stomach churning and I want a way out
Please help, it hurts

I’m currently 18 years old and live in the UK and I’m struggling to get my life together. After leaving secondary school, I went to an actual college for a bit, but due to my social anxiety, I wasn’t able to make any friends (dropping my friends from secondary school for a petty reason didn’t help much in retrospect) and therefore, my parents pulled me out of it. Since then, I have started an apprenticeship and have been on this course for about 5-6 months now. The job is okay I suppose, I’m learning things I didn’t know before which was always a plus, and in all honesty I’m treated very very well given that my father is my boss. The pay is amazing for someone my age, but all this is ruined by the fact that for one day every week, for the next 4 years, I have to attend a new college specifically for the apprenticeship. I hate this college with a fury that can be compared only to those that ravished Sodom and Gomorrah. I know it’s not much to deal with, one day a week, but I dislike it so much that I’m somethings tempted my the thought of quitting the apprenticeship, yet I’m held back two reasons, I need the money, and it would break my dad’s heart.
I am an incredibly artistic person. I have a bookshelf in my bedroom that’s completely full and books are piling up around the bottom of it. I love to write, poems, random phrases I’ve thought up, and potential scenes for books. I want to find a way to profit off it. I know the obvious way would be to write and publish a book, but that’s impeded by the fact that:

1. I’m 18
   1. I would still have to go to college while I write it
   2. There’s no way it would publish
   3. I have no social media following to promote it
   4. As much as I love writing, I don’t know if I could write a full novel, given that I’ve never tried before

I just want to do what I love and try to make a living in this god-awful world. I just want to know if there’s any things I can do to monetise off my writing or if there’s some sort of website I can publish things.
It’s the night before I go to college again and I can feel my stomach churning and I want a way out
Please help, it hurts