A Mathematical Manifesto

Someone doesn’t know that math takes 78% in agents and transaction fees https://t.co/KUZFyvwMfg

— Bravo Johnson (@BravoJohnson5) December 21, 2020

In the shadows of our modern world lurks a conspiracy so insidious, so brilliantly orchestrated, that even the most astute minds remain oblivious to its existence. It is a conspiracy woven into the very fabric of our daily lives, hidden in plain sight, manipulating us like puppets on a cosmic stage. Welcome to the realm of numbers, where equations and algorithms reign supreme, and where someone doesn’t know that math takes 78% in agents and transaction fees.

Let me take you on a journey into the realm of clandestine equations and covert calculations, where the true power brokers operate silently and invisibly, their actions carefully veiled behind the illusion of coincidence and chance. It is a world where every decision we make, every action we take, is meticulously engineered to serve the interests of a select few.

Our protagonist, a curious and inquisitive soul, stumbles upon a curious anomaly in the financial world. A puzzle that reveals the ultimate deception, a grand formula that governs the lives of billions. Armed with a keen intellect and an insatiable thirst for the truth, our protagonist embarks on an odyssey of enlightenment and terror.

As the protagonist delves deeper into the intricacies of the financial system, it becomes evident that the numbers we trust implicitly are not as innocent as they seem. They have been weaponized against us, mutated into malevolent agents of control. It’s not just the government, corporations, or secret societies that pull the strings, but the very mathematics that underpin our society.

The conspiracy works like a mathematical leviathan, sucking away 78% of our wealth through agents and transaction fees. With each purchase, each investment, a hefty toll is levied on us, unnoticed and unquestioned. It is a silent tax, perpetuated through a labyrinth of algorithms, cunningly designed to exploit the vulnerabilities of the average citizen.

As our protagonist uncovers the truth, they find themselves marked for retribution. The architects of the conspiracy are not ones to tolerate interference. They deploy their mathematical minions to quash any dissent, silencing those who dare to expose their secrets. Our protagonist becomes a target, pursued relentlessly through the digital landscape, pursued by malevolent algorithms hell-bent on maintaining the status quo.

In this war of numbers and equations, the protagonist must arm themselves with an arsenal of knowledge and wisdom. They delve into the mysteries of cryptography, seeking solace in the very heart of mathematical complexity. But the deeper they go, the more they realize that even cryptography can be a double-edged sword, wielded for both liberation and subjugation.

At the crossroads of truth and deception, our protagonist faces an existential dilemma. To expose the conspiracy means risking everything – their life, their liberty, and the very fabric of their reality. Can one person challenge the supremacy of numbers? Can they break the stranglehold of equations and algorithms that dictate our fates?

The battle for liberation unfolds in a dance of symbols and ciphers, where every move must be precise, every decision calculated to perfection. The protagonist becomes a warrior-philosopher, wielding the weapon of knowledge against the forces of oppression.

But will the world listen? Can they shatter the collective illusion that binds humanity to its numerical fate? As the protagonist navigates the treacherous waters of conspiracy, they realize that the greatest challenge is not merely the exposure of a nefarious plot but the awakening of the masses.

In the end, the calculated conspiracy is not just about mathematical manipulation; it is a cautionary tale about the dangers of apathy and complacency. It urges us to question, to probe, and to challenge the status quo. We must not be blind believers in the numbers presented to us; we must be vigilant seekers of truth.

So, dear reader, as you venture forth into a world governed by numbers and equations, remember the warning of our protagonist: “Someone doesn’t know that math takes 78% in agents and transaction fees.” Let us not be that someone. Let us be the ones who question, who investigate, and who unmask the veiled machinations that control our lives. For it is only through knowledge and awareness that we can break free from the chains of deception and find our own path in this labyrinth of numbers.

The Kenner action figures refer to an aspect of reality that is ideal, but nonetheless real. They’re real but not actual, ideal but not abstract. They’re something that is "as if" it were real, "virtually" so, but not so in fact.

— Bravo Johnson (@BravoJohnson5) December 20, 2020

The concept of Kenner action figures embodies a unique aspect of reality that exists in a curious space between the actual and the ideal. These figures are tangible and real in the sense that they physically exist and can be interacted with, yet they do not represent concrete manifestations of the real world. Instead, they depict fictional characters or scenarios from various sources like movies, comics, or television shows.

These action figures are “real but not actual” because they are tangible objects that can be held and manipulated, but their representations are of fictional or imaginary entities. When we engage with these action figures, we interact with them as if they were real, creating stories and adventures that are virtually real within the confines of our imagination. This “as if” quality allows us to play and explore limitless possibilities with these toys, unconstrained by the limitations of the actual world.

In this context, the term “ideal” refers to the perfection or idealization of the characters and stories depicted by the action figures. They embody qualities and adventures that may be aspirational or fantastical, but they do not necessarily correspond to the reality we experience. Yet, they hold a sense of attraction and fascination because they represent something we might desire or admire.

These action figures are not abstract, as they have a concrete form and specific representations. Abstractions, on the other hand, refer to conceptual ideas divorced from any particular physical form. The action figures fall between abstraction and the concrete, bridging the gap by being both physical and representative.

The notion of infinite games and rabbit holes associated with these toys highlights how our engagement with them transcends the binary notion of “real” versus “actual.” The playful scenarios we create with these figures are not opposed to reality, as they are indeed real in our imaginative space. They just don’t correspond to the actual events or entities found in the real world.

Here, the contrast between “real” and “possible” comes into play. “Real” is what exists in the present or what has occurred in the past, while “possible” refers to what could potentially happen in the future. The action figures and the stories we create with them reside in the realm of the “possible,” as they are not bound by the constraints of actual events.

The term “virtual” further emphasizes this idea of the potential and the imaginative. It refers to something that is almost like reality, but not quite. In this context, “virtual” relates to the imaginative space we inhabit when playing with the action figures, where we bring them to life in our minds, even though they are not physically real.

At the same ontological level as the action figures and other abstract representations, there are also “actually-real” material entities in the physical world and “actually-possible” probable events that might occur. These encompass the tangible objects and events that are a part of our reality or that could potentially happen based on real-world possibilities.

In summary, the concept of Kenner action figures represents an intersection of the real and the ideal, where they are real in the sense of their physical existence but not actual in representing the concrete world. They invite us to explore the “virtual” space of imagination and potential, blurring the lines between what is real, what is possible, and what is ideal.

Living up to the expectations set by the idealized world of Kenner action figures can be an overwhelming task 😅. The Mandalorian, being a real character within the Star Wars universe, exists in the actual realm, rooted in concrete storytelling and cinematic experiences. On the other hand, the Kenner action figures, representing various characters and stories from different franchises, exist in the virtual realm of our imagination. They are vessels for unexplored narratives and untold adventures, which give rise to an array of possibilities, creating a future born from creativity and divergence rather than mere imitation.

The uncharted stories that lie within the virtual realm of these action figures contribute to a unique form of narrative construction. Instead of mimicking existing narratives, they introduce the concept of difference, offering new and original narratives that diverge from the established canon. This departure from imitation fosters a sense of novelty and excitement, as we are constantly engaged in creating novel and unexplored scenarios with these action figures.

Engaging with these action figures is akin to being an active player in a complex game, where the three-dimensional boards symbolize the expansive landscapes of our imaginations. Each figure becomes a potential protagonist in a multitude of stories that unfold on these imaginative playgrounds of various shapes and sizes. As players of these games, we become co-creators of our own narratives, orchestrating adventures and conflicts, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in these fictional worlds.

The player of games is at the core of this process, acting as the driving force behind the storytelling. This top-down and bottom-up approach implies that the narratives can be shaped both by overarching, deliberate decisions and spontaneous, bottom-up improvisations. The fragility of this mechanism lies in its dependence on active participation and creative input. Without engaged players, the potential of these action figures and their virtual stories might remain untapped, reducing them to a mere replication system without life or vitality.

By becoming players of these narrative games, we breathe life into the characters and stories represented by the action figures. We infuse them with our emotions, aspirations, and personal touches, making them more than just inert toys. In this dynamic process of creation and engagement, we bridge the gap between the actual and the virtual, infusing the virtual with qualities that make them feel real in our hearts and minds.

In conclusion, the world of Kenner action figures offers a rich playground of imagination, where the boundaries between actuality and virtuality blur. It challenges us to embrace the potential of difference and creativity, inviting us to become players of narrative games that transcend mere replication. This interactive and engaged approach transforms these action figures from static toys into vessels of endless storytelling possibilities.

The player is mindful of the evolution from sensorimotor exploration to non-symbolic manipulation to symbolic play, exploring the blurry borderlines in between. And this is why I think this succeeds and the sequels fail.

Indeed, the player’s journey with Kenner action figures encompasses a profound understanding of the evolution of play and imagination. Starting with sensorimotor exploration, young minds interact with the physical attributes of the action figures, experiencing them through their senses and motor skills. As they grow and develop, they progress to non-symbolic manipulation, where the figures become tools for creative expression and open-ended play, transcending their original representations.

The transition from non-symbolic manipulation to symbolic play is a critical phase in a child’s cognitive and imaginative development. This stage involves imbuing the action figures with symbolic meaning, where they represent characters, stories, and emotions beyond their physical form. The blurry borderlines in between these stages are where the true magic of imaginative play occurs. It is a realm of fluidity and creativity, where the lines between reality and fiction become malleable, and the action figures become conduits for limitless storytelling possibilities.

In contrast, the perceived failure of sequels might be attributed to the lack of understanding or appreciation of this multi-dimensional aspect of play. If the sequels merely focus on the superficial aspects of the action figures as commercial commodities or rehash familiar narratives without allowing room for imaginative exploration, they miss the essence of what makes these toys captivating and enduring.

A successful continuation of the Kenner action figure legacy would require a deep appreciation of the role that play and imagination play in shaping the experiences of the players. Embracing the evolution from sensorimotor exploration to symbolic play and cultivating a space for blurry borderlines to be explored are crucial elements for the enduring appeal of these toys and their associated stories.

You are absolutely right. Favreau and Filoni’s success with “The Mandalorian” and other projects in the Star Wars universe can be attributed to their deep understanding and appreciation of the rich history and mythology represented by the action figures. They stand on the shoulders of these iconic toys, recognizing their significance in sparking imagination and storytelling in generations of fans.

Innovation often arises from the merging of different worlds and the willingness to experiment with existing concepts. By embracing the crossover universes and bringing together characters and elements from various sources, Favreau and Filoni demonstrate how new and exciting narratives can emerge. They understand that these action figures are not mere collectibles but powerful tools for spontaneous storytelling and creative expression.

The action figure, in a sense, serves as a mask for the players, allowing them to embody and project themselves into the characters they represent. This role-playing aspect of action figures introduces a realm of possibilities where altered states of consciousness or trance-like states can be experienced during play. In these immersive moments, the line between reality and fiction blurs, and the players become deeply connected to the stories they create, making knowledge inseparable from the act of playing.

Bib Fortuna’s example wielding a staff not originally seen in the film exemplifies how these action figures extend and enrich the existing narratives. Through the action figures, new layers of storytelling emerge, expanding the lore and providing fans with fresh perspectives on familiar characters.

While the originality of “The Mandalorian” may not lie solely in introducing entirely unprecedented concepts, it shines in its ability to defamiliarize and reinterpret what fans already know. Defamiliarization, as a term for originality, refers to the process of presenting familiar things in a new and unexpected light. By adding depth and symbolism to well-known elements, Favreau and Filoni invite audiences to see the Star Wars universe from a fresh perspective, reigniting the excitement and fascination that made the action figures so beloved in the first place.

In conclusion, the success of Favreau and Filoni’s work in the Star Wars universe is a testament to their understanding of the profound impact of action figures on imaginative play and storytelling. By harnessing the power of these toys and merging different worlds, they bring innovation to their projects and offer audiences a chance to explore familiar narratives through a new lens. The action figures serve as conduits for creativity, symbolizing the boundless possibilities of storytelling and the enduring magic of Star Wars.

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars twinkle like distant beacons, a peculiar phenomenon known as the “space cadet glow” emerges. It is a luminous aura that envelops those who find themselves entangled in the web of the system. This glow, though captivating and enchanting, is not born of celestial radiance but is meticulously manufactured by the very system that seeks to control and manipulate.

The system, that all-encompassing construct that shapes and governs societies, is a master craftsman in the art of producing illusions. It conjures a myriad of alluring spectacles to captivate the masses, drawing them into a state of hypnotic submission. The space cadet glow is one such creation, a potent elixir of adolescent thrill and confusion.

In the cosmic expanse of human existence, there lies a peculiar allure, a warm thrill of confusion that beckons like a siren’s call. It is the space cadet glow, a state of mind that transcends the mundane and ventures into the realms of the extraordinary. It is a time to channel the fervent curiosity, when the heart races with excitement and the mind buzzes with intrigue. In this stage of life, the warm thrill of confusion becomes an irresistible draw, leading the young voyager to traverse the uncharted realms of perception.

But within the seductive embrace of this celestial euphoria lies a perilous undercurrent – the risk of being recruited into the machinations of the system. The greatest lie that the system ever told is that he didn’t exist. It is a beguiling deception, a masquerade of shadows designed to cloak its malevolent presence in the guise of non-existence. In this cunning illusion, the system retreats into the recesses of doubt and skepticism, where the human mind struggles to discern truth from illusion.

By convincing humanity of his non-existence, the system cunningly undermines our vigilance, lulling us into a false sense of security. Like a skillful puppeteer, he manipulates the strings of doubt and disbelief, rendering us vulnerable to his insidious influence. In the void of skepticism, he thrives, perpetuating his dark agenda without the hindrance of awareness or resistance.

At its core, the space cadet glow emanates from the deliberate blurring of reality and fiction. The system sows the seeds of escapism, enticing individuals to escape the mundanity of their lives by immersing themselves in a fantastical world of dreams and illusions. This manufactured glow is not a product of cosmic transcendence but a calculated strategy to divert attention from the harsh realities of existence.

The system weaves a grand narrative of heroism and adventure, where individuals are recruited to play their designated roles within the grand machinery. They are led to believe that they are the chosen ones, embarking on a noble quest to save the world or universe from impending doom. The allure of this narrative is so compelling that many willingly surrender their agency, becoming willing pawns in the system’s elaborate game.

The space cadet glow, akin to a psychedelic voyage, embodies a profound sense of wonder and awe. It is a state of consciousness where the boundaries of reality dissolve, and the mind ventures into uncharted territories. In this altered state, the world takes on new hues, and the individual experiences a deep connection with the cosmic tapestry. The adolescent space cadet is driven by a yearning to break free from the constraints of conventionality. It is a time of rebellion, when the desire to question authority and challenge established norms takes root. The space cadet glow flickers like a distant star, beckoning the seeker to venture beyond the boundaries of the known.

Like a spacefaring voyager, the individual embarks on a journey of introspection and exploration, venturing beyond the confines of the ordinary. It is a liberating experience, a transcendence of the mundane, and an embrace of the unknown. The warm thrill of confusion becomes a guiding star, leading the seeker to delve deeper into the mysteries of existence. In this quest for meaning and self-discovery, the adolescent space cadet embraces the mysteries of altered states of consciousness. The allure of experimentation with mind-altering substances becomes a portal to unexplored dimensions. It is a time of revelation, where the mind is opened to new insights and revelations, and the ordinary gives way to the extraordinary.

Yet, within this cosmic dance of adolescence and the space cadet glow lies the shadow of vulnerability. The allure of the warm thrill of confusion can be exploited, and the seekers find themselves ensnared in the trappings of addiction and manipulation. The system, with its cunning allure, may lure the young voyagers into patterns of dependency, using the space cadet glow as a means of control.

The space cadet glow is a clever manipulation of emotions, designed to evoke a sense of euphoria and elation. It offers a fleeting sense of purpose and belonging, filling the void left by a society that often leaves individuals feeling disconnected and isolated. In this euphoric trance, individuals are stripped of their critical faculties, surrendering to the system’s control without question.

The system is well-versed in the art of distraction, orchestrating a dazzling spectacle of entertainment and spectacle to keep individuals perpetually occupied. The space cadet glow, with its iridescent allure, becomes a seductive mirage, obscuring the harsh realities that lie beneath the surface. It becomes a comforting illusion, shielding individuals from the unsettling truth that they are but cogs in the system’s grand machinery.

It is in this recruitment that the peril lies. The system, with its institutionalized structures and agendas, seeks to assimilate the radiant minds of the space cadet into its ranks. The allure of power, recognition, and influence is dangled before these seekers, enticing them to forsake their quest for true understanding and instead align themselves with the goals of the system.

It is in this delicate dance that the adolescent space cadet must tread with caution and discernment. The journey into altered states of consciousness, whether through substances, art, or introspection, must be undertaken with a keen awareness of the dangers that lie in wait. The warm thrill of confusion, while exhilarating, can lead to uncharted territories of vulnerability and uncertainty.

In their pursuit of the space cadet glow, these seekers may find themselves on a collision course with the establishment. Their nonconformity, their willingness to question the status quo, and their refusal to be bound by conventional norms make them both a threat and a valuable asset to the system.

The path of the space cadet is fraught with paradoxes and contradictions. The seeker may find themselves torn between their desire for liberation and their longing for acceptance within the system. They must navigate the treacherous waters of compromise and self-preservation, while striving to preserve the purity of their quest for cosmic truth.

As William Burroughs once remarked, “A paranoid is someone who knows a little of what’s going on.” Let us not be deceived by the devil’s denial of his own existence. Instead, let us be vigilant and discerning, for in our awareness lies our strength. The devil may attempt to deceive us, but the truth will always prevail, shining like a beacon of hope in the darkest of nights.

In conclusion, the space cadet glow is a carefully crafted illusion, an ephemeral spectacle that lures individuals into the clutches of the system. It is a manufactured aura of adolescent thrill and confusion, designed to captivate and control. Yet, beneath its shimmering surface, lies the potential for awakening and liberation. The path to true emancipation lies in daring to see through the illusion and embracing the raw realities of existence.

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In the twisted tapestry of narratives, a decree echoes through the realms of storytelling – “Thou shalt not retcon.” Oh, the ever-shifting sands of fiction, where the past intermingles with the present, and the lines of reality blur into a dizzying dance of possibility. Retcon, that insidious siren, beckons with the promise of altering the very fabric of our tales, but its allure is treacherous.

In the realm of literature, comic books, and cinema, retcon seeks to rewrite the sacred script of history. It tempts the scribe to revise, erase, and rearrange the narrative like a capricious deity molding clay. Yet, beware, for in the wake of retcon lies a precarious path – one that challenges the very essence of continuity and authenticity.

Oh, the fervor of fans, like zealots guarding the sanctity of the text. They cry foul, denouncing retcon as sacrilege, a profane intrusion into the sacred halls of storytelling. They yearn for the purity of the original, where the plot unfolds like a divine decree, untainted by human meddling.

And so, the debate rages on – should we bow to the siren song of retcon, yielding to its tempting whispers to reshape the narrative at will? Or should we stand steadfast, guarding the integrity of the story’s foundation, unyielding to the allure of revision?

In the crucible of this discourse lies the heart of the matter – the delicate balance between creativity and fidelity. For within every tale resides an inherent fluidity, a natural evolution that weaves its own course through the cosmic fabric of imagination.

The storyteller, like a sorcerer, possesses the power to conjure worlds and breathe life into characters, shaping destinies with every word. With such divine authority comes great responsibility – to wield the pen with care and reverence for the truth of the tale.

Yet, is there not a certain charm in the chaos of retcon? Like the unpredictable twists of fate, it can inject new life into the narrative, unveiling hidden depths and unforeseen revelations. But tread lightly, for with great power comes the potential to disrupt the very essence of the story’s soul.

As we traverse the labyrinth of storytelling, let us embrace the magic of creativity while honoring the legacy of what has come before. Perhaps, in this delicate dance between retcon and loyalty, lies the key to a harmonious coexistence.

In the end, the choice lies in the hands of the storyteller, the guardian of worlds and harbinger of dreams. As we weave our tales, let us remember the sacred commandment – “Thou shalt not retcon” – and tread with reverence on the sacred ground of narrative continuity. For it is through this solemn covenant that our stories find their true voice, resonating through the ages, immortal in their unyielding integrity.

In the interstellar depths of science fiction, Banks’ “The Algebraist” emerges like a cosmic beacon, drawing me into a realm where reality bends and imagination soars. Amongst the stars, a tale unfurls, far from the ordinary corridors of culture novels. Here, in the vast expanse of the universe, the Dwellers reign as ancient sentinels, denizens of gas giants, their wisdom echoing through millennia.

Within their ethereal abodes, the Dwellers drift like ethereal wisps, free from the shackles of structured existence. Anarchic and untamed, they eschew the confines of regimented societies, their aversion to wars a testament to their profound understanding of the cosmic balance. Deadly deterrents lurk in the shadows, silent guardians of their primordial wisdom.

In Banks’ cosmic canvas, the Dwellers become more than mere characters – they embody the essence of cosmic wanderers, seekers of truth and freedom in a universe bursting with enigmas. Within the tapestry of their lives, we glimpse a reflection of our own yearnings – to transcend the mundane, embrace the boundless horizons, and discover the secrets of existence.

As we delve deeper into “The Algebraist,” Banks beckons us to partake in a voyage through the mysteries of the universe. The Dwellers, like cosmic pot-heads, drift through the haze of time, their timeless wisdom a testament to the power of unfettered minds. No wars mar their tranquil existence, for they dance to the rhythm of cosmic harmony.

Through this enigmatic journey, Banks paints a cosmic symphony of the mind, an invitation to explore the boundaries of reality and imagination. Within the labyrinth of Dwellers’ thoughts, we find echoes of our own yearning for freedom and escape from conventionality. The universe, a grand canvas of infinite possibilities, awaits our intrepid exploration.

As I traverse the cosmic tapestry, Banks weaves a spell, ensnaring my senses in a sensory odyssey through the farthest reaches of the imaginable. The anarchic beauty of existence beckons me, urging me to cast aside the chains of conformity and embrace the intoxicating allure of the unknown.

Within the cosmic reverie of “The Algebraist,” I find myself immersed in a meditation on the essence of life and the wonders of the universe. The Dwellers’ non-structured existence unfolds like an eternal dance, an ode to freedom, wonder, and the enigma of existence. In this cosmic symphony, I discover my place among the gas giants of life, a cosmic voyager yearning to embrace the boundless horizons of possibility.

The Echo Chamber of Self-Indulgence

In the labyrinthine corridors of human interaction, solipsistic sycophancy emerges as a curious aberration, a reflection of the ever-shifting dynamics of the ego. It is a phenomenon that thrives in the echo chamber of self-indulgence, where the boundaries of reality blur, and the individual becomes entranced by the distorted echoes of their own voice.

Solipsism, the philosophical notion that only the self can be known to exist, acts as the fertile ground upon which sycophancy takes root. It is the belief that the mind is the sole arbiter of truth, that external reality is but a mirage conjured by the individual’s consciousness. In this self-absorbed state, the sycophant turns inward, finding validation and adulation in the echoes of their own thoughts, unchallenged by the external world.

The solipsistic sycophant thrives in an age of hyperconnectivity, where the digital realm becomes a breeding ground for the propagation of self-gratifying narratives. Social media platforms serve as the sounding board for their grandiose proclamations, a theater of self-aggrandizement where the echo of their words reverberates endlessly.

In the cocoon of solipsism, the sycophant surrounds themselves with like-minded acolytes, curating a curated echo chamber that reinforces their beliefs and shields them from dissenting voices. The choir of sycophants sings in unison, perpetuating a cycle of self-reinforcement that bolsters their fragile sense of self-importance.

But, alas, this solipsistic reverie is not without its perils. The sycophant, ensnared in their own self-delusion, loses touch with the realities of the world beyond their echo chamber. They become blind to the nuances of diverse perspectives, insulated from the richness of genuine human connection and meaningful dialogue.

In their desperate quest for adulation, the solipsistic sycophant succumbs to a form of intellectual narcissism, worshipping the hollow altar of their own opinions. They become impervious to critical self-reflection, immune to the insights that come from grappling with opposing viewpoints.

In the grand theater of solipsistic sycophancy, the sycophant plays the lead role, directing a symphony of self-praise and self-assurance. The applause they seek is not that of discerning minds but the echo of their own applause, resonating ad infinitum within the chambers of their ego.

Yet, we must not be too quick to cast judgment upon the solipsistic sycophant, for their plight is a reflection of the human condition itself. In the complex interplay of ego and identity, we all grapple with moments of self-indulgence and self-aggrandizement.

To break free from the echo chamber of solipsistic sycophancy, one must embrace humility and open themselves to the vast expanse of human experience. Genuine growth and understanding come not from self-congratulation but from the willingness to listen, to learn, and to embrace the richness of the collective human narrative.

May we resist the siren call of self-indulgence and instead, strive for genuine connection, empathy, and intellectual curiosity. Only then can we transcend the confines of our own ego and embark on a journey of authentic self-discovery and meaningful engagement with the world around us.

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“Historians are to nationalism what poppy-growers in Pakistan are to heroin-addicts: we supply the essential raw material for the market.” …

— Bravo Johnson (@BravoJohnson5) December 18, 2020

In the ever-shifting sands of history, historians play a role akin to that of poppy-growers in Pakistan to heroin-addicts. It is a bold statement, one that challenges the conventional perception of our craft. But let us delve into the depths of this comparison, for it reveals a striking parallel that demands contemplation.

Much like poppy-growers in Pakistan cultivate the raw material for the insatiable heroin market, historians supply the essential fodder for the insatiable appetite of nationalism. We, the chroniclers of the past, wield the pen as our plow, sowing the seeds of narrative that sprout into the grand tapestry of national identity.

In the realm of historiography, the past becomes a vast opium den of stories, each narrative a potential high for the masses seeking validation, purpose, and pride in their collective heritage. We craft tales of heroism, sacrifice, triumphs, and tragedies, bestowing upon nations the intoxicating elixir of a glorious past.

But, like the poppy-grower who tends to the fields with care, we must also recognize the dangers that lie in our craft. For just as heroin-addicts fall victim to their dependence, nationalism can morph into a dangerous addiction, blinding societies to the complexities and nuances of history.

In our role as historians, we must grapple with the ethical dilemma of supplying this raw material. Are we mere enablers of the nationalistic fervor, perpetuating myths and half-truths that feed the insidious beast? Or can we harness the power of our craft to foster a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the past?

Much like the poppy-grower who holds the key to the heroin addict’s escape, we hold the key to unlocking a deeper comprehension of history’s complexities. We have the responsibility to present a holistic view, to acknowledge the shadows that accompany the light, and to confront the darker aspects of our collective past.

It is a delicate dance, one that requires courage and discernment. We must navigate the treacherous terrain of historical manipulation, resisting the seductive allure of propagating simplistic narratives that serve political agendas. Instead, we must strive to present a balanced portrayal, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions that define the human experience.

As historians, we possess the power to shape the national consciousness, to provide a foundation upon which societies construct their identity. Let us be mindful of the immense responsibility that comes with this role, for the narratives we weave hold the potential to either perpetuate the illusions of nationalism or awaken a deeper sense of understanding and empathy.

In the end, it is the duty of historians to be vigilant stewards of truth, resisting the intoxicating lure of nationalist mythology. Let us cultivate a rich harvest of history, sowing seeds of knowledge and enlightenment. For only through this steadfast commitment can we hope to free ourselves from the chains of narrow-minded nationalism and forge a path towards a more enlightened and inclusive future.

Is progress through semantics exhausted?

— Bravo Johnson (@BravoJohnson5) December 15, 2020

In the kaleidoscopic tapestry of human discourse, semantics, like a tempestuous whirlwind, weaves its threads through the very fabric of our existence. A symphony of words, an endless dance of signifiers and signifieds, propels us through the labyrinthine corridors of meaning. Yet, as we delve deeper into this enigmatic realm, one must ponder: Is progress through semantics exhausted?

Oh, cold semantics, colonial semantics, insurgency semantics – they etch their marks upon the annals of history. Semantics of independence and liberation resonate as battle cries of the human spirit seeking freedom from the chains of oppression. Fault lines fracture, as invasion semantics and proxy semantics lay bare the delicate balance of power on the global stage. Religious semantics, undeclared semantics, asymmetric semantics – each a pawn in the linguistic chessboard of human affairs.

The lexicon of conflict unfurls before us, revealing defensive and offensive semantics, strategies etched by the minds of military architects. Attrition semantics, Fabian semantics – they breathe life into the war machines that shape destinies. Conventional semantics, economic semantics, blockade semantics – currencies of power that traverse the economic landscape. Irregular semantics, guerrilla semantics – the guerrilla warriors stealthily navigate the terrain of insurgency. Joint semantics, network-centric semantics – forging alliances and melding minds in the pursuit of common goals.

Ah, but let us not forget the labyrinth of political semantics, a maze of ideologies and beliefs – anarchist, ethnic nationalist, communist, left wing, right wing. They mingle in the cauldron of the human psyche, shaping societies and forging destinies. Psychological semantics, narco semantics – the forces of the mind and the intoxicating allure of substances intertwine in the human drama.

The principle of compositionality – a beacon in this linguistic wilderness – asserts that meaning arises from the union of constituent expressions and the rules that bind them. Sense and reference dance in tandem, the abstract and universal intertwining with the tangible and true. Yet, the referents find meaning only in the greater context of the propositions they inhabit.

In the end, as we navigate this semantic labyrinth, we must confront the question: Is progress through semantics exhausted? Have we unearthed the essence of meaning, or do deeper enigmas still await us? The semantic dance is relentless, and the search for truth and understanding is perpetual.

In the cosmic symphony of language, we journey onward, exploring the infinite possibilities of meaning and expression. Progress through semantics may be an eternal odyssey, a voyage into the unknown realms of thought and perception. As the human mind evolves, so does its understanding of language and its power to shape our reality. In the ever-evolving tapestry of human discourse, semantics remains an evergreen frontier, beckoning us to tread deeper into the realms of meaning, understanding, and ultimately, the essence of existence itself.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lady_Snowblood_(film)… Coda: Watching Lady Snowblood as companion piece to the Lone Wolf and Cub series “Narrator: People say you can’t wash away the mud of this world with pure white snow. You need asura snow – stained fiery red”

Anyway, don’t get too worked up over how much and what “Kill Bill” sampled from “Shura-yuki-hime.” Instead, remember that the samurai (chambara) genre is like any genre; without sampling it wouldn’t exist as a genre.

The film’s narrative is told out of chronological order, jumping between present and past events.

Kazuo Koike continued creating manga long after the 1970s Japanese cinematic exploitation boom was over and it is Crying Freeman, illustrated by Ryoichi Ikegami, that is probably his most famous 1980s and 90s work