Chicago, IL – April 4, 2023 – The KAPPTOR Connection was born in August 2023 when Juanita Kapp (from South Africa) and Alejandro J Tornato (from Georgia, US) decided to become business partners. Juanita Kapp formulated the name The KAPPTOR Connection and the first slogan ever used for a conference was titled, “Capturing Your Hearts.”
Alejandro J Tornato perceived the name KAPPTOR to sound like “raptor,” and hence the theme of a dinosaur bringing wisdom, knowledge, and understanding was born. Juanita Kapp once mentioned in a live interview that KAPPTORS go to conferences to “meet” you and not to “eat” you.
This year KAPPTOR Connection Conference #2 has hand-selected Rico No Suave from the “Rico No Suave Show” to be one of the most powerful and impacting speakers. Rico’s magnetic personality and high caliber of expertise will bring upliftment and edification. The hosts are excited and pumped to have Rico No Suave on the panel!
All satirical relief aside, the KAPPTOR Connection Conference team is here to make a diligent and positive impact in the world of personal and professional development.
The conference consists of three full days of engaging, six explosive topics of
discussion and eighteen international speakers from across the globe. With this format in place, the KAPPTOR Connection Conference is more than an event; it is an experience not to be missed!
The next upcoming conference is from the 28th to the 30th of April between 9 AM to 5:30 PM EST.
For further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact Juanita Kapp at +27 64 546 0915 or visit www.meticulousmoments.com and register for the conference today. Inquiry emails can be sent to meticulousmacarons@gmail.com for direct contact with the South African KAPPTOR. The theme for the KAPPTOR Connection conference nr 2 is “Elevate you.” We look forward to meeting you.
The gifted author, Anthony Burgess (1917—1993), is best known for the one book he regretted writing.Published in 1962, A Clockwork Orange might soon have been forgotten had it not been made into a celebrated and notorious Stanley Kubrick movie. As a consequence of the film’s success, Burgess’s novel transformed into a kind of Frankenstein monster insofar as its creator was concerned.
Within a futuristic setting, the plot concerns fifteen-year-old Alex who spends his free time assaulting, robbing, raping and generally terrorizing any vulnerable citizens that he and his three “droogs” happen to encounter. A killing occurs in the course of such activities, and Alex is charged with murder. But he contrives to shorten his fourteen year prison sentence by volunteering for a new treatment purported to render violent criminals harmless. The subject of this Ludovico’s Technique is conditioned—via special drugs combined with viewings of gruesomely violent film footage—to experience agonizing sickness as soon as he feels any impulse to do harm. In the case of Alex, the treatment is judged a success, and his prison sentence is commuted. But his reemergence into free society is dampened by his depressed condition, which intensifies as he begins to reap what he had sown during “those carefree days” of his criminal life.
The novel’s theme—which is, believe it or not, a religious theme—is stated by the Prison Chaplain: “Does God want goodness or the choice of goodness? Is a man who chooses the bad perhaps in some way better than a man who has the good imposed upon him?”
Alex, the narrator, tells us early on what he has chosen:‘But what I do I do because I like to do.’
The book has an interesting history. There were two editions: the original British version and an American one. The American edition, which was the version that Kubrick used for his movie, omitted a final chapter that depicted Alex moving in the direction of moral reform. At first glance the British version, which was the one that Burgess preferred, seems more attractive and less cynical than its American counterpart. But there are a number of problems with the optimistic or redemptive ending. In that version, Alex observes that his past behavior was a kind of mechanistic outcome of his youth; that his brutality toward others was something that he could not help or stop—as if raping and killing were as natural to adolescence as the growth of pubic hair. Plus, doesn’t this undermine the novel’s thematic affirmation of free will? Finally, if the author insisted that Alex change for the better, the process required something more dramatic than mere boredom with his thuggish life or a run of the mill realization that he should finally grow up!
Notwithstanding these and other objections, I like A Clockwork Orange. It is a book that I have read many times over the years, and I continue to find it fascinating, brilliant and even funny—darkly so, of course.
The other day my friend and I went to visit my late husband’s grave, may he rest in peace. While there, we looked at the other gravestones. Gravestones or headstones (unless one is buried the wrong way and then it would be Feetstones) sound so much better than tombstones, which reminds me of the word doom or doomstones, all three of which are depressing as hell. Not that I’ve ever been to hell, mind you, but I’ve heard from holier than thou types, who claim to have more knowledge about sin than I ever will experience, that it’s hot (as hell) there. I don’t mind hot, but I gather there’s no air conditioning. So although I’m sometimes tempted to sin, I’m really a wimp, even when it comes to camping. So, no air conditioning? Fuhgeddaboudit!!
In any event, we began to talk about why grave/head/feet stones have to be so serious and wouldn’t it be fun to have headstones that make visitors laugh. Then we began to think of humorous messages from down under (but not necessarily just Australia) we’d want on our humor-stones. Hope you’ll enjoy reading the ones below (pun intended) that gave us much needed laughter, on what otherwise could have been a somber day and hope you’ll want to think of your own when you visit your loved one. So that your good memories of him or her will make the trips uplifting rather than letting you down (there I go again with the puns).
Thanks for bringing the sheet cake (plus gooey frosting) with the saw baked in it. If you can’t work the saw before “they” see you, act natural until you can try again._________________________
Forget the damn flowers!!
Get me out of here!
_____________________
Do you feel guilty yet?
If not, return when you do.
Your Nemesis
______________________
I just wanted to take a peek…I didn’t mean to fall in.
______________________
Preparing for my demise, I fell ill…I guess I mean in.
______________________
If the good die young, just chalk my morals up to lying about my age a lot.
________________________
I’m here because, ___________, the _____________ insurance company and, ___________, their idiot adjuster,practiced medicine without a license. If the company and the adjuster don’t like their names being etched in stone, they can sue me.
_________________________
I enjoyed life so much I died laughing…
When you’re ready to go, try it, you’ll like it.
__________________________
If what I’m suggesting is a sin, I’ll ask your forgiveness. Because although I can still fit into the earrings I wore in high school (eat your hearts out, sisters) given the extreme heat in hades, I’d rather not try on my bikini.
The meaning of black roses varies from death, mourning and tragedy, to a rebirth or a major change. It can also represent optimism and hope or eternal love. Black roses are rare. The growing process is very complex and lengthy, taking up to more than a year.
I want to introduce you to a “black rose”, “SavageBMWBarbie” (Ashley). Having seen Ashley’s feed on social media for the past two years, I observed quite a unique, colorful, mystical, and resilient-quality persona. In a world where gold-digging twerkers, silicone, and botox bags are hoping to get rich off click-baiting by cheapening their souls, I found this black rose (Ashley). At the time, Ashley was in the process of losing her father (RIP). Through all her posts, she shared positive inspirational moments with thousands of her followers. She did that by showing artistic creativity, raw vulnerability, depth, fun, and quality content.
With bloodlines from native American tribes, Greece, Hungary and Poland, Ashley was born in Michigan.Ashley’s absolute hero was her father. This army infantry badass biker took her everywhere. Hunting trips, NASCAR racing, and tinkering was all part of the bond. Sadly, Mom and Dad did not understand each other.Like many of us, they failed to “listen to understand” each other.Ashley admits to having been rebellious towards her father and his expectations. Today she gets teary eyed, she is filled with gratitude for it all. No one can tell me fathers aren’t important in a child’s development stages! I mean, look at stats. The percentage difference of inmates from single mother homes versus single father homes is shocking. It’s been suggested now that because of that, single dads seem to be better parents than single moms! A mother’s love is sweet to a child’s heart, but a father’s love is fuel to a child’s spirit.
Ashley worked for Ford Motors as a team leader.She was a tattoo artist for 10+ years. Today, she is a full-time welder and pursuing an underwater welding career. This young lady currently owns two BMW S 1000 RR(s) and a Raptor truck.She is absorbed by wildlife and the environment. Make no mistake,she is not a “Greta” environmentalist hellbent on making everyone feel guilty.
Ashley’s addiction for speed on two wheels started after she crashed a car drag racing doing a ¼ mile run. “They put me on a bike right after and the rest is history. I was hooked,” said the Savage Barbie in her. Her top speed is 207mph.I think one of her IG posts shows her speedometer at 199mph.When I saw that, I knew this savage was not just a pretty Barbie face.She has more balls than many of us and her dad would be proud of her today.
This wild and fearless black rose is and will always be fueled by passions screaming her affectionate tenderness for her father.Let’s be honest, don’t we all do that?Even for those who actually dislike or hate their dad, deep down it is the need for a father’s love that gives birth to these emotions (dislike and hate) as a desperate scream for it. The ego in us denies that, but that’s for another story. When I think of it, this column would have been perfect for a Father’s Day piece. Ashley’s entire life and story is a shrine honoring her father’s love. He was far from being perfect. She grew up in the midst of hardships, but he never gave up on her. He never ceased to say, “I love you” in words and also in actions.
This black rose lost her dad but she goes on carrying his flame with all her might. Within her own identity, apart from her dad, she developed her own fascinating journey. She is fearlessly discovering all that life has to offer. She desires to inspire her fans and followers to live outside the box; to believe in themselves even if it is against all odds; treat others as you want to be treated; cherish your family; respect others; and be loyal. Ashley is patient with herself, she learned that through anger management therapy. She is on her journey now, discovering and defining her values, recognizing she is not always her own best friend. She claims a still nebulous Christianity as her faith and considers the growth available to her through it. It is not all clear to her, but at least she is willing and open to learn.
Black roses are rare. They evoke deep intrigue and respect. Their meaning goes from death, mourning and tragedy, to a rebirth or a major change, optimism, hope, and eternal love. SavageBMWBarbie’s life journey mirrors all that—like all of us in a sense. Hardships do not define us unless we want to live like victims. It is what we choose to do with the good and the not so good that defines us. I can’t wait to see this black rose in full bloom.
I’ve been thinking of friendships lately and so an essay, by Gemma Hartley, on the unexpected loss of someone she thought had been a good friend piqued my interest. Since that same sudden shock happened to me, I was struck by Ms. Hartley’s astute observation that our culture doesn’t offer a way to grieve such a loss.
The loss of the person I thought was a friend came so suddenly that it was emotionally gutting and a shock that is taking me a long time to overcome. The better side of that loss is that I’m learning to view all friendships as potentially temporary (if longer, that’s a bonus) and as lessons to be learned, including kindness in closure… a pox upon me if I ever leave a friendship, as my “friend” did, without a kind explanation and a door left open.
There are no songs to help you weep the loss of a friendship (only romance), so you’re left to absorb the deep sadness, sans musical overtones. Therapy can add insult to injury, in that those who have suffered have to pay to talk and, since the cause may never be understood, there may not be any resolution except to be forced to face feelings of abandonment.
From my perspective, there’s no reason right enough, nor season cold enough, to end a friendship in such a way. Lessons can and should be shared (on both sides of the divide) before and from the cutting without anesthesia.
The idea of lessons on both sides of a divide brings my thoughts to a book of essays by Max Hastings, on Vietnam (An Epic Tragedy: 1945-1975), that has changed my opinion of the war and hammers home the point that both sides need to be heard.
By denying access to reporters and photographers who were not “ideologically sympathetic” to the North Vietnamese regime, the North carefully crafted how their side was viewed at the time and historically. On the flip side, American democracy allowed for almost complete access to the South Vietnamese and American fighting.
What was happening (but neither reported nor photographed) by the North Vietnamese left only our side open to criticism. Balanced reporting and photography might have shown that South Vietnamese and American actions and responses were warranted and could have possibly changed the outcome of that war.
Instead, such one-sided prejudicial renderings led to (deferred) students rioting on college campuses here, hurled and undeserved anger at troops there who couldn’t afford such luxuries here (and so were drafted to go), and hastened a withdrawal, without honor, rendering the sacrifices of those troops, essentially, (and very sadly), meaningless.
Putting aside your thoughts on whether we should have been there, one-sided access led to very unpopular reporting and photography that made the US and the South Vietnamese appear more barbaric than the North.
It’s only with the benefit of authors like Hastings that we can begin to understand how one-sided self-serving narratives can lead to lost, rather than learned, lessons which might have constructed a better outcome and future.
Speaking of constructive learning, I read recently that the Dutch have discovered a sane way not only to dine with friends (Dutch Treat), but also, along that same (and sane) line of thinking, to be considerate of bike riders or other drivers while exiting a car as a driver. The idea, called the Dutch Reach, is simple and brilliant or simply brilliant!
After parking the car, instead of using the left hand to open the driver’s door, to exit, reaching over to open the driver’s door with the right hand will force the driver to turn his or her head around to see if another vehicle is coming. If a vehicle is approaching, the Dutch Reach will stop the driver from opening the driver’s door to get out of the car before he or she has all of the information needed to make a decision to exit.
On that note, I’ll end here with a wish for all of us to have only good lessons with the best people and to see all situations (including if it’s really necessary, a decision to “exit” a friendship) from the best Dutch Reach perspective.
The sun barely peeked through the window as Dr. Bernard Moore rose and prepared for his day. His first obligation is to his best friend and companion, a faithful bull terrier named April May. After taking her for a vigorous walk, they settle into his book-filled library/office. Although one can hear CNN in the background, Dr. Moore’s focus today is on showing me the ancestry book that outlines so much of his family history and talking about the process of gathering the incredible amount of information, that was the inspiration, behind writing a compelling story about his family’s legacy beginning with his great-great-great grandfather, Tal Jones. His fascinating story includes members of his family who chose the academic route and became civic leaders in the community and others who prospered financially through a series of not-so-legal encounters.
In the midst of his family research, Dr. Moore has begun to write a book that combines his love of genealogy, history, and political science to bring his great-great-great family’s story to life as well as a screenplay. In fact, the current screenplay has been recognized as “Best” in over 20 highly competitive film festivals.
While moving from his office to his living room to discuss his upbringing, I notice a beautifully framed photo of his mother sitting prominently next to one of the treasured and rare photographs of Tal. Speaking in soft narrative tones, Dr. Moore describes his mother’s journey in 1950, traveling from Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Los Angeles with one suitcase and $25 (the average weekly wage for a domestic worker in the 50s). Throughout her life, she was a businesswoman and caregiver who endured the pressure of raising two boys. Dr. Moore saw in his mother a strong, buoyant, self-contained black woman, providing protection against a prejudiced and biased world against blacks. Even as she worked to establish a business that would provide security for her family, she still found the time to share much of the family’s oral history. What contributed to her resilience against an unfair society? One can only surmise that it was the strength of her ancestors who prevailed against all odds.
Dr. Moore grew up in California. He recalls a loving and stable childhood, although his parents were divorced by the time he was in second grade. However, they both played an integral role in his upbringing. When he was eight years old, his family moved from Compton to Inglewood. Neither parent was prepared for school integration which caused racial tensions in their community. He remembers only minor incidences but would occasionally hear about major violence related to busing in other areas of the city in adult conversations.
He enjoyed school and began his love of history by listening to his mother, grandmother, and aunts’ oral recollections. The pride of his family legacy compelled him to tell the proud history of Tal Jones and his descendants, from slave to oilman, at a time when the odds were clearly stacked against Blacks.
He listened and he learned. He retained much of the family’s oral history, a contrast of great, interesting, and what is often called “Messy.” But it is all a part of his family’s drama of the human experience, undoubtedly worthy of historical consideration.
Dr. Moore has uncovered not only a complex and controversial story behind his family but the pride of claiming relatives like Wallace Willas, who wrote the popular American songs “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot”, “Steel Away to Jesus”, “The Angels are Coming”, and “I’m a Rollin”.
“As a Black person,” said Dr. Moore, “we cannot change the fact that we are descendants of either the slave or the master, and for many, both. We come from a complex history where impeccable records of slaves as chattel were kept related to ownership. But, keeping slave families together and recording their birth, death, and lineage was of no consequence to the slave owner. This is why oral history is vital to the legacy of the Black family.”
Dr. Moore believes that in today’s political climate, disallowing students from learning about Black history is now being challenged and opens the door to inaccurate information.
As a historian and genealogist, Dr. Moore’s personal family history will hopefully empower others to begin to discover that which will lead to the truth.
He is currently in the process of planning a series of lectures related to his own genealogy and how to begin to research family history.
About Dr. Moore
Bernard Moore earned a Ph.D. degree in Political Science in the discipline of American Politics – Public Law – Black Politics at Howard University and a Master of Arts degree in American Politics from Claremont Graduate University. Dr. Moore has taught undergraduates at Williams College, Howard University, and the University of Oxford. Professionally, Dr. Moore has been a political strategist and a recognized academic scholar in Black Politics and African American Genealogy. He is a recognized authority in the U.S. Congress and legislative affairs and an academic scholar in American Politics. He served as a Senior Policy Advisor/Fellow to the U.S. House of Representatives and as a Principal Policy Fellow for members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Dr. Moore is also an expert in criminal justice reform issues that pertain to reducing recidivism by evidence base practices.
There is no angle of the experience of love that has been left unexplored in the musical realm. From that first crush to a full relationship implosion, musicians and lyricists bring forth the deepest of emotions and hold them up to the light. The number of ways people interpretlove rival the variety of musical styles and, like music, love is always evolving and changing.
There are, of course, an enormous selection of ballads professing eternal love and desire. As a DJ, I mostly play those songs at weddings or private events, though sometimes as a slow dance highlight for galas and social events where having a few moments to really enjoy one’s date are welcome. The world of Pop music is also awash in many amazing “first sight” moments. In the last section of this list I will share some of my favorites from these areas, but first –a sampling of love songsfrom my library that lift your heart (or hackles) as well as your feet!
(Click the links below for the full Spotify and YouTube playlists of all these songs – new tracks already added!)
Love never stops, no matter what else is going on! Check out some of my favorite new love jams that have been released in recent years!
Bob Sinclair feat. Robbie Williams – Electrico Romantico
Kylie Minogue & Jessie Ware – Kiss Of Life
DJ Katch feat. Sean Kingston – One By One
Momoland feat. Natti Natasha – Yummy Yummy Love
Bob Moses – Love Brand New
Leon Bridges – Steam
John Newman – Waiting For A Lifetime
Cole Swindell – She Had Me At Heads Carolina
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats – I’m On Your Side
Neil Pierce – Wonderful You
Quarterhead feat Camylio – Is It Love
Mary J. Blige – Here With Me (Feat. Anderson .Paak)
James Vickery feat Musiq Soulchild – Come To Me
Carly Pearce – Heart’s Going Out Of It’s Mind
Coline Creuzot – For Love
Sia – Hey Boy
Blxst – About You
Ghost – Call Me Little Sunshine
Machine Gun Kelly feat Willow – Emo Girl
Weezer – A Little Bit Of Love
First Crush and Infatuation:
Every relationship starts somewhere! Butterflies and bravery come up against each other in these songs that capture that first strike from Cupid’s arrow.
The Jets– Crush On You
Sam Cooke – Cupid
Selena Gomez– Bad Liar
Avril Lavigne– Girlfriend
Ronettes – Be My Baby
Prince – I Wanna Be Your Lover
Usher– U Got It Bad (Soulpower Remix)
Clairy Brown and the Bangin’ Rackettes – Love Letter
Mario – Just A Friend 2002
Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
The Early Days of Love:
So after a little (or a lot) of flirting, you snagged that love interest. The world is bright and beautiful place! The birds are singing! You are entranced by all their little quirks!And maybe a little nervous too…
The Pointer Sisters– I’m So Excited
Katrina & The Waves –Walking On Sunshine
Janelle Monae– Make Me Feel
Michael Jackson – The Way You Make Me Feel
Goldfrapp – Ooh La La
Dusty Springfield– Son of a Preacher Man
Alabama Shakes – I Found You
Counting Crows– Accidentally In Love
Walk The Moon – Shut Up and Dance
The Darkness – I Believe In A Thing Called Love
Going In Deep:
You’ve made it past the early days, now it’s for real.
The Spencer Davis Group – Gimme Some Lovin’
Foster The People – I Would Do Anything For You
High Valley – Single Man
The Cure – Love Song
John Legend – Love Me Now
Drake – Hold On, We’re Going Home
Tegan and Sara– Closer
Diana King – I Say A Little Prayer
Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello – Senorita
The Zombies– This Will Be Our Year
Let’s Get Married!:
It’s the one! Say it in a love song as you sweep your intended off their feet.
Jagged Edge – Let’s Get Married (Remarqable Remix)
The Dixie Cups– Going to the Chapel of Love
Bruno Mars – Marry You
Paula Abdul – Will You Marry Me
Jason DeRulo – Marry Me
K-Ci and JoJo – All My Life
The Five Satins – To the Aisle
Tina Turner – The Best
Magic! – Rude
Aloe Blacc- I Wanna Be With You
Highs and Lows:
Some relationships thrive on drama. We all know them, or have been part of them – where it just doesn’t make sense to anyone besides them that they are still together. Opposites attract is just one way to put it!
Orianthi – Shut Up and Kiss Me
John Cougar Mellencamp– Hurts So Good
Paula Abdul– Opposites Attract
Rihanna – We Found Love
Katy Perry – Hot N Cold
Britney Spears – Toxic
311 – Beautiful Disaster
Lauryn Hill – Ex Factor
Betty Who – Heartbreak Dream
The Police – Every Breath You Take
End of the Road:
Some people break up to make up, and some just break up. But even heartbreak comes with a chance of dance, and getting some groovy moves in on the floor can help you get back into the rhythm of love!
Cee Lo – Forget You
Joy Division – Love Will Tear Us Apart
Leslie Gore– It’s My Party
Ariana Grande – Thank U Next
The Weeknd– Blinding Lights
Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
Beyonce – Why Don’t You Love Me
Amy Winehouse– Back to Black
Grimes – Flesh Without Blood
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – Tears of a Clown
Single Again:
What’s a singleton to do? Get out and dance in all your solo glory!
Trina – Single Again
Beyonce – Single Ladies
The Mowgli’s – I’m Good
Nick Jonas – Bacon
Cher – Believe
Hailee Steinfeld – I Love Myself
Seryah – L.B.D.T. (Look But Don’t Touch)
TLC – No Scrubs
Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Lady Antebellum – Bartender
Undercover Lovers:
A quick bonus sectionof songs that encompass love and deception all at once.
The All-American Rejects – Dirty Little Secret
Heart – All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You
Billy Paul – Me & Mrs. Jones
Amy Winehouse – Me & Mr. Jones
Anuel AA – China
Robyn – Call Your Girlfriend
Beyonce & Shakira – Beautiful Liar
The Outfield – Your Love
Dion – Runaround Sue
Naughty By Nature – O.P.P.
Slow It Down A Bit:
As promised, my favorite slower selections!
Mazzy Star – Fade Into You
Leon Bridges – Here In My Arms
Etta James – At Last
Chi Lites – Oh Girl
Jessie J – Casualty Of Love
INXS– Never Tear Us Apart
Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight
Gary Wright – Dream Weaver
Bobby Caldwell – What You Won’t Do For Love
Mark Knopfler – Storybook Love
A final toast to love, for yourself and others – start the playlist below and enjoy all these songs for your Valentine’s experience! And be sure to like and follow everything @djaudioprism for new music commentary, taped interviews with personalities from around the world and updates on future public performances!
Vanessa Hundley aka DJ Audioprism isowner of Audioprism Entertainment,is a full time DJ/VJ/KJ/MC, Web and TV Personality, and Wonder Woman who incorporates her love of music and everything entertainment into all facets of her life. She resides in Atlanta, GA, with her amazing daughter, fabulous partner and a variety of fuzzy friends intent on taking over the world one clump of fur at a time. Follow her on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Mixcloud for everything
DJ Audioprism!
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Though best known for his controversial novel, Lolita, Vladimir Nabokov wrote other works of fiction which were equally impressive: Pale Fire and Despair are titles that come to mind immediately; Bend Sinister is another. The latter was published in 1947. It concerns the ordeal of a professor of philosophy named Adam Krug as the forces of a totalitarian regime seek to subdue him. His nemesis is a Stalinesque dictator named Paduk, nicknamed the Toad.Readers should not expect realism from this book. The Soviet and Nazi regimes served only as raw material for a work that is in large part fantastical.
The novel opens with the death of Krug’s wife. The style of the first chapter is that of a prose-poem which effectively and dreamily conveys the main character’s devastating loss. He is left with an only child named David. Although the opening has a feeling of gloom about it, humor increases as the narrative unfolds. In fact, I would describe Bend Sinister as an artful blend of hilarity and horror.
The protagonist is a distinguished intellectual whom the police state wants to use for its purposes. But Krug, refusing to play along, attempts to go on with his life as if he were insulated from the oppressive powers that surround him. In an episode that is reminiscent of events that occur today, he and his university colleagues are expected to sign a document that confirms their allegiance to the present government. Although these scholars voice some gripes and protests against the intrusive measure, nearly all of them comply. Their eventual capitulation is rendered with Nabokovian artfulness and wit:
‘The rest sighed and signed, or did not sigh and signed, or signed—and sighed afterwards, or did neither the one nor the other, but then thought better of it and signed.’
Krug is an exception: “Legal documents excepted … and not all of them at that, I never have signed, nor ever shall sign, anything not written by myself.”
I should mention that Adam Krug, in spite of his heroic nonconformity, is not an especially likeable character. It is fair to describe him as a haughty intellectual whose frequent witticisms fail to amuse anyone, including himself. His only attractive trait is that he remains recognizably human, in contrast to the political devils who are devoted to the process of transforming human society into an inferno of uniformity.
On par with James Joyce, Vladimir Nabokov was an artistic genius; consequently, his writing is sometimes difficult to understand. Moreover, he knew every literary convention, technique, gimmick and cliché, which he was able to mimic or creatively exploit at will. And like Nikolai Gogol, whom he admired, his style is playful and often uproarious.
In the Library of America edition of Bend Sinister, an introduction by the author is included. About six pages long, it is mostly Nabokov’s opportunity to heap scorn on everyone, from the general reader to Sigmund Freud. Skip it and get right to the novel.
She is no bougie diva but sure can master playing the part. She laughs at meaningless peddlers of flesh, silicone, and botox. Class and elegance are her most lethal weapons. We are each other’s lifeline of inspiration. She is part of my soul, the part that tells my ego to shut up and choke. If she needed my blood I would slice my wrist for her survival. She would do the same for me. I am her clumsy beast. She is my beauty. My Harley Quinn.
She seizes my imagination. I breathe again just looking at her. I see her. She is my symphony, my “Moonlight Sonata”. I hear her. She is the one that gives me the strength to let her go peacefully, even if she were to not love me back. It’s okay. She is connected to the living Creator. We hear Him through each other. Rain or shine, we can dance. We are as close to heaven, angels, and God Himself when we are next to each other. Ten thousand dates don’t come close to being with her.Time and space are insignificant to our bond. We are each other’s madness and each other’s wisdom. She is my fire. She is my water. She is the oxygen in my air.She is ruthless. She is fierce. She is also the sweetest heart. What else about her brings life to the alpha protector in me? Her virtues, self-respect, self-control, manners, listening skills, kindness, confidence, and solid healthy boundaries to name a few. She has no need to advertise herself. We feel purpose protecting and guarding our bond. I am safe with her. She is safe with me.
I have silently called her for a lifetime. I looked for her through a maze of souls. I thought they were her only to find they were all part of my journey towards her. I bless these souls for what they shared with me leading me to her. She is my tower to climb. She is my mountain to conquer. She is my “Daenerys Stormborn” and dragon master. Demons fear her. They whisper to me, “Surely she will abandon you and crush your heart”.They know that even if she were to abandon me, I would still thrive. I am my own and she knows it. She is her own and I know it. I “cleaned my room” as Dr. Peterson would prescribe, and I keep it clean! We put our worth in the depth of our awareness. Not in the visible.
She is my muse and I her warrior. She kicks my ass when I need it. I have her back, and she trusts that when I call her BS it is because I love her. We answer to one King. We are not superior or inferior to each other or to anyone else. We are by each other’s side. We are not in competition, we conquer together. We build each other up—we lift each other up. Her beauty is so blinding my soul feels the fingerprints of divinity within her. My inspiration for her fuels my heart with purpose. She is my mountain. She is my tower. She is my crazy. She is my peace.She is my kryptonite. She is happy with a wedding band, not a diamond in the world nor a castle her concern. She wants the diamonds of my heart—the rough, the impure, and the clearest ones all together. She fearlessly smiles at my scars. She points toward wars I won rather than reminding me of battles I lost getting here. She makes me want to bear all her wounds. We are resilient. We create life and pleasures of life for those around us by serving them as well as each other. We forgive and we inspire to forgive. We do not judge. All are safe with her. She is self-aware. Together we are far less toxic than the multitude of self-proclaimed saints. We seek knowledge together. We relentlessly pursue growth.We see beauty where most fail to. We don’t need to numb our pain, we embrace what it wants to teach us. Hurricane? No problem, I will stand by her side and cover her. I will take her through the highest winds and storms to see her smile so angels can hear her laughter. I fear not her weakest moments. I stand by her shielding her from demonic arrows of the most evil kind. We don’t listen to “respond” to each other. We patiently listen to “understand” each other. We own our mistakes, deal with them, and leave them in the past. We make no excuses.She is the one I call in my darkest hours. I am the one she calls in her most vulnerable times.
“So who is your Harley Quinn?” you will say. Well, that’s a good question. I don’t know, not sure. I wonder. Maybe I’m looking at her and I can’t see her. Maybe she is next to me and does not yet see me. Maybe she does and is waiting for me to see her? Maybe I met her and lost her? Maybe I met her and she lost me? Maybe we’re just both in different countries or space and about to cross paths? Either way, I’m good with whatever.If she, however, happens to read this… know dear one that I am here standing by and I wish you the most amazing valentine. I am thankful for you and how you have inspired my dreams. I’m fine with or without you, you are fine with or without me and that is beautiful! Bottom-line here is, hurry up so we can freaking ride this life without ever looking back!
The Henley tee has established itself as one of the ultimate men’s wardrobe staples.
While the shirt’s purpose has changed through the years, its powerful presence in fashion has remained, and we’re glad it did.
In 2023, you can find endless Henley styles and designs to suit any taste. So mark our words – the tee isn’t going anywhere.
Here are the best henley designs for 2023.
Casual and comfortable
The Henley does a perfect job combining style with casual comfort. This combination stems from the tee’s beginnings in the 19th century when the tee was worn as an undergarment.
Made from soft cotton and without a restrictive collar, it allowed the body to breathe and move freely while doing physical labor.
It’s probably comfort that attracted the team of English rowers to choose the shirt as their official uniform in mid 19th century. Fun fact, the name Henley came from Henley-on-Thames, a town that held the famous Royal Regatta.
With time Henley became a popular choice for other leisurely activities and later a real fashion statement.
Henley stands out with its soft fabric (from cotton to silk to merino wool) and 2-4 button placket. It’s perfect for the weekend, summer parties, or just hanging out at home.
Rag & Bone Classic Flame Long Sleeve Henley
Rag & Bone and their Henleys never disappoint. They radiate luxury and comfort and impress with little details. This Henley offers a traditional fit and looks good on everyone.
While a little on the pricier side, the tee is made of 100% cotton and is very durable, so you can be sure to wear it for a long time.
L.L.Bean Comfort Stretch Pima Henley Shirt
A true fan favorite, this stretchy and comfortable Pima shirt is an absolute must-have for every guy.
Relaxed through the chest and sleeves and with a slightly slimmer waist, the tee is soft and super-smooth.
Lastly, just a touch of spandex and raglan sleeves give the much-needed freedom of movement, so you can wear it all day long.
Banana Republic Brushed Waffle-Knit Henley
Banana Republic has always been a classy, stylish choice, and their ultra-soft, luxurious, vintage-inspired waffle-knit Henley made from a gorgeous cotton blend is no exception.
We love that it comes in a bold yet traditional stripe pattern and a traditional fit that will be in style today and in years to come.
Fresh Clean Threads Short-Sleeve Henley
Every wardrobe needs a short sleeve item of these and the Henleys by Fresh Clean Threads deliver both on style, color choice, and price point.
Made with the brand’s StratuSoft super-soft proprietary cotton-poly fabric, it looks great layered and on its own.
It’s incredibly comfortable, and with the price of just over $20, you can stock up on a few colors!
Lululemon Fundamental Long Sleeve Henley
Yes, Lululemon has some pretty fabulous menswear! And their long-sleeve Henley shirt is the perfect choice for your at-home lounge attire.
The tee is made from soft cotton fabric and the brand’s abrasion-resistant, stretchy and anti-stink blend that will serve you a long time.
As it’s designed as loungewear, there’s enough room in the chest and waist to be as comfortable as possible. Lazy weekends – sorted!
Uniqlo Waffle Long-Sleeve Henley T-Shirt
Uniqlo is always a great choice when looking for affordable basics. The Japanese brand offers quality, comfort, and style for all seasons.
Their ribbed waffle long-sleeve Henley has a classic collar and hem design and comes in a few basic colors that will work with most of your wardrobe.
The traditional loose fit also allows you to move freely, whether on a fun weekend trip or simply lounging at home.
I want to introduce you to a “black rose”, “SavageBMWBarbie” (Ashley). Having seen Ashley’s feed on social media for the past two years, I observed quite a unique, colorful, mystical, and resilient-quality persona. In a world where gold-digging twerkers, silicone, and botox bags are hoping to get rich off click-baiting by cheapening their souls, I found this black rose (Ashley). At the time, Ashley was in the process of losing her father (RIP). Through all her posts, she shared positive inspirational moments with thousands of her followers. She did that by showing artistic creativity, raw vulnerability, depth, fun, and quality content.
