Soundtrack: “Jesus Freak” by DC Talk
I just want to take a moment to share some good news with you. I have decided to enter the priesthood. This might come as a shock to some of you, but it just seems to be where I see my path going. I grew up in a Lutheran household and hold to many of Martin Luther's values. But lately I have seen how progressive, yet traditional, the Catholic church is and that is something that I identify with strongly. Not only that, but I feel a life of celibacy, service, and prayer will benefit me. I have been struggling with my place in the world for some time now. It has seemed that my life is in need of answers and this is the best way I can see them answered.
It is not going to be easy, but I think I can do it. Tomorrow I go in for a psych evaluation, keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Hopefully I’ll pass!
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
Observations From The Bus Stop
Soundtrack: “We’re In This Together” by Nine Inch Nails
I am back to using the wonderful public transportation system of this greater Denver metro area. And I have some observations to share.
1. In some neighborhoods apparently sitting at a bus stop means you are either a drug dealer or seeking the services of a drug dealer.
2. When you are running late you always miss the bus. When you show up early to the bus stop you miss the buss. When you really need to be somewhere at a certain alloted time you miss the bus. Or the bus doesn’t come, or it breaks down or whatever other disaster could possibly happen to keep you from getting to where you need to be.
3. Bus drivers are either quite warm and friendly people or they do not speak your language. There is no middle ground.
As I have more observations I will share them.
Happy New Year. 2008 is gonna be great.
I am back to using the wonderful public transportation system of this greater Denver metro area. And I have some observations to share.
1. In some neighborhoods apparently sitting at a bus stop means you are either a drug dealer or seeking the services of a drug dealer.
2. When you are running late you always miss the bus. When you show up early to the bus stop you miss the buss. When you really need to be somewhere at a certain alloted time you miss the bus. Or the bus doesn’t come, or it breaks down or whatever other disaster could possibly happen to keep you from getting to where you need to be.
3. Bus drivers are either quite warm and friendly people or they do not speak your language. There is no middle ground.
As I have more observations I will share them.
Happy New Year. 2008 is gonna be great.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Building A Better Me
Soundtrack: “Dashboard” by Modest Mouse
Among other projects like prepping my parents’ house for painting, I have been working hard at getting a cohesive and well-put-together portfolio done. Of course I have grandiose plans for it, it wouldn’t be me otherwise, but I am also being realistic in my expectations for it. The most important of these expectations is to build a portfolio that not only shows what my technical and creative skills are but also shows every person who looks at it who I am. This is a feat that I have found takes a large amount of introspection and self-reflection. I do not always like what I see, but I am having to leave that behind that and focus on the good parts. I am an abstract analyzer and thus I tend to reflect on how something could be better. That especially applies to me and for so long I have been in this mode of living where guilt and regret over past mistakes has defined me. I make myself a tragic figure instead of someone who overcomes adversity to come out on top. It is a tough thing to change when it is all you know.
So instead of dwelling, of late I have been working to apply my positive attributes to the things I know I am not good at. For example, I am not good at managing my time but I am good at managing graphic matrices and how things fit in a space. So how then can I apply that to my time management? It is forcing me to be even more creative with how I do things. And anyone who knows me knows that being creative is my favorite thing.
Among other projects like prepping my parents’ house for painting, I have been working hard at getting a cohesive and well-put-together portfolio done. Of course I have grandiose plans for it, it wouldn’t be me otherwise, but I am also being realistic in my expectations for it. The most important of these expectations is to build a portfolio that not only shows what my technical and creative skills are but also shows every person who looks at it who I am. This is a feat that I have found takes a large amount of introspection and self-reflection. I do not always like what I see, but I am having to leave that behind that and focus on the good parts. I am an abstract analyzer and thus I tend to reflect on how something could be better. That especially applies to me and for so long I have been in this mode of living where guilt and regret over past mistakes has defined me. I make myself a tragic figure instead of someone who overcomes adversity to come out on top. It is a tough thing to change when it is all you know.
So instead of dwelling, of late I have been working to apply my positive attributes to the things I know I am not good at. For example, I am not good at managing my time but I am good at managing graphic matrices and how things fit in a space. So how then can I apply that to my time management? It is forcing me to be even more creative with how I do things. And anyone who knows me knows that being creative is my favorite thing.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Love And Marriage
Recommended Reading: Survivor by Chuck Palahniuk
I used to think that marriage is something that I'd like to do some day. But there are many days where I find myself saying "Marriage? Fuck that noise." I do not want my life to be a circus. I think having a kid would be awesome, kids are great and I like playing “Uncle Toph” but parenting is just not my thing right now. Not only that, but then there is the whole committing my life to another person thing. It's a little worrisome to me when I think about waking up next to the same person for the rest of my life. Probably 'cause I haven't found someone I'd want to wake up next to every day for the rest of my life. I really want to marry my best friend and as of right now, I have not found that woman yet.
In addition to that I have other responsibilities, better things to worry about/stress out over/have fun with. Like art school. That does not mean I have given up hope, however. I am sure it is in the cards. I am sure when my life has some sort of stability I will find Mrs. Christopher Short. But until then, fuck that noise. I like being independent, I like being single, and I really think I need to get my shit together before I even think about wedding cakes and tuxedos.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Growing Relevance
Soundtrack: ...And Justice For All by Metallica
Metallica’s progressive thrash metal masterpiece is nearly twenty years old, yet it is eerily relevant to today’s uncomfortable and bloated political climate. The album, as the name sarcastically implies, is about injustice. From the victim of war in “One” to the scathing criticism of the American justice system in the title track, the album talks about the injustices of war, politics, and the fucked up state of the world in general. I find it interesting how much of the album alludes to the current war in Iraq. “Harvester Of Sorrow” is practically a social commentary about suicide bombers.
What is most interesting are the feelings of paranoia that wash throughout the album. 1988 was a volatile year in the United States. There was plenty to be paranoid about. Not only was it an election year, but there was growing turmoil globally with the first stages of the demise of the Soviet Union. Upon becoming the Soviet Premiere in 1985, Gorbachev worked to institute a series of economic reforms that were known as “perestroika”. One of the most dynamic of these reforms was the Law On Cooperatives. This law permitted private ownership of businesses in the services, manufacturing, and foreign-trade sectors. This was a huge thing for the Soviet Union. It was the first time since Lenin’s New Economic Policy that private business had been allowed. Along with Glasnost, led to a winding down of the Cold War. Even so, people were still unsure about the Soviets. After living with fifty years of paranoia it is hard to shake that feeling off.
It was around this period of time that I was starting to become aware as a person, especially politically aware. These events were a big deal to me. I remember my mom breaking down in tears when the Berlin Wall fell in 1989. I have no doubt in my mind Metallica were just as influenced by world events while writing ... And Justice For All. The album still has Metallica’s trademark apocalyptic bent, but it is more focused. The topics are less abstract and much more real. This was also the period of time that music was really starting to have a huge affect on me. In years previous what I knew of music came from my parents’ record collection and the radio. My parents have awesome taste in music so I got lucky there. But as I was starting to become my own individual, I began to move beyond what their seemingly vast collection of vinyl offered. I never really liked the hair bands of the era. Groups like Poison and Warrant were too flashy, too over the top for my taste. But then I discovered Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, and soon afterwards Metallica and Iron Maiden and Megadeath. This was angry, brutal music that reflected my current distress over how things in the world were going. And today I find myself in almost the same place as I was twenty years ago: confused, angry, distressed. There is injustice in the world and I am pissed off about it. I still listen to loud and angry music. Thankfully my choices expanded greatly when I discovered punk as a freshman in high school, and then hardcore during my senior year. Punk was a great discovery because it was so much more snide and cynical than metal. Instead of pure aggression here was something that was smart and angry. And hardcore was even better because it had the aggression of metal combined with the intelligence of punk. And there was slam dancing... now it was OK to flail around like a lunatic!
Back to Metallica, this is by far not only one of my favorite Metallica albums, but one of my favorite metal albums of all time. I think as long as there is corruption and injustice and a reason to be paranoid, this album will be relevant. It is bold and grandiose and even arrogant, just like the society people in the United States are subjected to daily. But most of all, it is angry. It wants change. And it wants change now.
Metallica’s progressive thrash metal masterpiece is nearly twenty years old, yet it is eerily relevant to today’s uncomfortable and bloated political climate. The album, as the name sarcastically implies, is about injustice. From the victim of war in “One” to the scathing criticism of the American justice system in the title track, the album talks about the injustices of war, politics, and the fucked up state of the world in general. I find it interesting how much of the album alludes to the current war in Iraq. “Harvester Of Sorrow” is practically a social commentary about suicide bombers.
What is most interesting are the feelings of paranoia that wash throughout the album. 1988 was a volatile year in the United States. There was plenty to be paranoid about. Not only was it an election year, but there was growing turmoil globally with the first stages of the demise of the Soviet Union. Upon becoming the Soviet Premiere in 1985, Gorbachev worked to institute a series of economic reforms that were known as “perestroika”. One of the most dynamic of these reforms was the Law On Cooperatives. This law permitted private ownership of businesses in the services, manufacturing, and foreign-trade sectors. This was a huge thing for the Soviet Union. It was the first time since Lenin’s New Economic Policy that private business had been allowed. Along with Glasnost, led to a winding down of the Cold War. Even so, people were still unsure about the Soviets. After living with fifty years of paranoia it is hard to shake that feeling off.
It was around this period of time that I was starting to become aware as a person, especially politically aware. These events were a big deal to me. I remember my mom breaking down in tears when the Berlin Wall fell in 1989. I have no doubt in my mind Metallica were just as influenced by world events while writing ... And Justice For All. The album still has Metallica’s trademark apocalyptic bent, but it is more focused. The topics are less abstract and much more real. This was also the period of time that music was really starting to have a huge affect on me. In years previous what I knew of music came from my parents’ record collection and the radio. My parents have awesome taste in music so I got lucky there. But as I was starting to become my own individual, I began to move beyond what their seemingly vast collection of vinyl offered. I never really liked the hair bands of the era. Groups like Poison and Warrant were too flashy, too over the top for my taste. But then I discovered Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, and soon afterwards Metallica and Iron Maiden and Megadeath. This was angry, brutal music that reflected my current distress over how things in the world were going. And today I find myself in almost the same place as I was twenty years ago: confused, angry, distressed. There is injustice in the world and I am pissed off about it. I still listen to loud and angry music. Thankfully my choices expanded greatly when I discovered punk as a freshman in high school, and then hardcore during my senior year. Punk was a great discovery because it was so much more snide and cynical than metal. Instead of pure aggression here was something that was smart and angry. And hardcore was even better because it had the aggression of metal combined with the intelligence of punk. And there was slam dancing... now it was OK to flail around like a lunatic!
Back to Metallica, this is by far not only one of my favorite Metallica albums, but one of my favorite metal albums of all time. I think as long as there is corruption and injustice and a reason to be paranoid, this album will be relevant. It is bold and grandiose and even arrogant, just like the society people in the United States are subjected to daily. But most of all, it is angry. It wants change. And it wants change now.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Office Space Style
Required Reading: Survivor by Chuck Palahniuk
There is an ink jet printer currently strewn in various pieces around my back yard.
Here's the story. My brother and I inherited an Epson Stylus 777 ink jet printer from our parents. For the last three or four years we've been toting it around to the various places we've lived at. Around nine months ago it finally gave up the ghost. The thing was about six or seven years old so it was just a matter of time. It's been sitting around various places and tonight, while packing up, my brother and I decided to have some fun.
So he threw it off the roof.
We then proceeded to beat the living shit out of this printer á la Office Space. The only thing missing was a baseball bat, but we got around that pretty quick. And now the printer looks like it was hit by a semi truck.
I'm going to love picking up all the little bits in the morning.
There is an ink jet printer currently strewn in various pieces around my back yard.
Here's the story. My brother and I inherited an Epson Stylus 777 ink jet printer from our parents. For the last three or four years we've been toting it around to the various places we've lived at. Around nine months ago it finally gave up the ghost. The thing was about six or seven years old so it was just a matter of time. It's been sitting around various places and tonight, while packing up, my brother and I decided to have some fun.
So he threw it off the roof.
We then proceeded to beat the living shit out of this printer á la Office Space. The only thing missing was a baseball bat, but we got around that pretty quick. And now the printer looks like it was hit by a semi truck.
I'm going to love picking up all the little bits in the morning.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
No More War And No More Soldiers
Soundtrack: “With Every Light” by The Smashing Pumpkins.
I apologize for the long stretch of time between posts. I've had a lot stewing on my stove, so to speak. There is stuff I want to talk about, but for the last two or three weeks I just have not had any creative drive whatsoever.
I am going to get personal again for just a little bit. I am making a compromise of sorts. I am laying down my weapons because I am tired of fighting. Being right is not worth the trouble I have gone through. I am no longer going to agonize over what is “good” or “right” or “just”. I do not care about things that do not concern me. From this point on I am simply going to live like every day is my last day.
I have always been a very competitive person, but mostly with myself. And I am sick of beating myself up over everything. It is going to take some work, I know, but I cannot justify being miserable and agonizing over the little things. It is time to not just look at the big picture, but obliterate anything that gets in the way of the big picture. That means killing a lot of darlings, as they say in the literary world. It also means focusing on my needs for once. I have been putting everyone before me and sacrificing so much, and people do not give back. So fuck 'em.
But I still love. I still have a love for people who inspire and give just as much, and sometimes more, than I. I still love what I do, but I am going to find a new catalyst a new outlet. No more doing penny jobs for friends, I am going to aim high. And I am going to work hard to form lasting relationships with people who are tied to the graphic design world. I am going to make the most of these relationships. And I am going to spread the work of my friends and colleagues because they deserve it.
I will start with Pete Harrison. Based in the UK, Pete is the mastermind behind Aeiko.net and Funkrush Clothing. And I would have to say that Pete is my favorite designer right now. Maybe ever. His typography work is amazing. He is constantly finding new and exciting ways to represent those pesky 26 letters of the alphabet. So do yourself a favor and go check his work out. It blew me away and I am a cynical designer who’s seen just about everything.
Look ma, the sun is shining on me.
I apologize for the long stretch of time between posts. I've had a lot stewing on my stove, so to speak. There is stuff I want to talk about, but for the last two or three weeks I just have not had any creative drive whatsoever.
I am going to get personal again for just a little bit. I am making a compromise of sorts. I am laying down my weapons because I am tired of fighting. Being right is not worth the trouble I have gone through. I am no longer going to agonize over what is “good” or “right” or “just”. I do not care about things that do not concern me. From this point on I am simply going to live like every day is my last day.
I have always been a very competitive person, but mostly with myself. And I am sick of beating myself up over everything. It is going to take some work, I know, but I cannot justify being miserable and agonizing over the little things. It is time to not just look at the big picture, but obliterate anything that gets in the way of the big picture. That means killing a lot of darlings, as they say in the literary world. It also means focusing on my needs for once. I have been putting everyone before me and sacrificing so much, and people do not give back. So fuck 'em.
But I still love. I still have a love for people who inspire and give just as much, and sometimes more, than I. I still love what I do, but I am going to find a new catalyst a new outlet. No more doing penny jobs for friends, I am going to aim high. And I am going to work hard to form lasting relationships with people who are tied to the graphic design world. I am going to make the most of these relationships. And I am going to spread the work of my friends and colleagues because they deserve it.
I will start with Pete Harrison. Based in the UK, Pete is the mastermind behind Aeiko.net and Funkrush Clothing. And I would have to say that Pete is my favorite designer right now. Maybe ever. His typography work is amazing. He is constantly finding new and exciting ways to represent those pesky 26 letters of the alphabet. So do yourself a favor and go check his work out. It blew me away and I am a cynical designer who’s seen just about everything.
Look ma, the sun is shining on me.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Smart = Sexy
“Hot Soft Light” by The Hold Steady
I have been noticing a trend that frankly makes me smile really big.
Smart girls are popular.
It may be that this trend is only within certain circles, because I have noticed that there is a similar and disturbing trend in the media. This trend is ditzy party girls. Paris Hilton, “The Bad Girls Club”, and celebrity cat fights are all the rage right now. And while Geekdom has held on to it’s hot girls for years, starting with Captain Kirk’s girls on the original Star Trek, these hot girls were not always a part of that community.
But now video games are cool, not something for geeks and nerds and losers. Star Wars has firmly entrenched into pop culture, and Kari Byron on Mythbusters makes being smart, well, sexy. All I have to say is it's about time.
I am proud of being a geek. I am proud of being smart now, but when I was a kid I was ridiculed for it. I read books instead of watching TV (although I had a few shows that I loved), I listened to music that wasn't the flavor of the month (something that I am still proud to do today), and I could draw like a motherfucker. I was the “wierd” kid. It took some time to come to terms with being a little bit different, but I have grown into it and now I openly embrace my geekiness. And the great thing is, so are all of the hot girls who were afraid to before. Plus, geeks are just plain fun in the sack... If you need solid proof, just check out Wired’s Sex Drive blog.
You know what this means? Me and some lucky geek girl out there are one day going to openly embrace our geekiness together. Bust out the Voltron DVD!
I have been noticing a trend that frankly makes me smile really big.
Smart girls are popular.
It may be that this trend is only within certain circles, because I have noticed that there is a similar and disturbing trend in the media. This trend is ditzy party girls. Paris Hilton, “The Bad Girls Club”, and celebrity cat fights are all the rage right now. And while Geekdom has held on to it’s hot girls for years, starting with Captain Kirk’s girls on the original Star Trek, these hot girls were not always a part of that community.
But now video games are cool, not something for geeks and nerds and losers. Star Wars has firmly entrenched into pop culture, and Kari Byron on Mythbusters makes being smart, well, sexy. All I have to say is it's about time.
I am proud of being a geek. I am proud of being smart now, but when I was a kid I was ridiculed for it. I read books instead of watching TV (although I had a few shows that I loved), I listened to music that wasn't the flavor of the month (something that I am still proud to do today), and I could draw like a motherfucker. I was the “wierd” kid. It took some time to come to terms with being a little bit different, but I have grown into it and now I openly embrace my geekiness. And the great thing is, so are all of the hot girls who were afraid to before. Plus, geeks are just plain fun in the sack... If you need solid proof, just check out Wired’s Sex Drive blog.
You know what this means? Me and some lucky geek girl out there are one day going to openly embrace our geekiness together. Bust out the Voltron DVD!
Friday, April 06, 2007
Disappointed
Soundtrack: “The Bends” by Radiohead
I am more than just a little disappointed at the moment. I would be frustrated, but some awesome acupuncture earlier today cleared that up. I have been making a conscious effort to not get stressed out or frustrated or angsty and simply keep doing what it is I do. And that is design.
But the disappointing this is that this aspect of my life, the thing that I feel I am best at, is not paying off. It should be, but my current employers, who promised me in contract that I would be paid biweekly for the services I render. At the least I should be paid at the end of each project and that is not even happening.
If you recall, some time ago I wrote a blog about being very excited to work for NeverAsk. I still love working for NeverAsk in many aspects, but things are going downhill very fast. To the point where I do not know how I am going to pay rent this month. And I owe money all over town, although not to known pornographers.
I just do not know what to do anymore. I am looking for a job that actually pays right now, but finding a job can take time and I am out of time. I cannot help feeling that I am responsible in some part for letting my friends walk all over me, but I can only take so much responsibility and that is what is frustrating about the situation... a lot of it is out of my hands. I do not like feeling helpless, but when things are out of my hands that is how I feel.
I know what most people are going to say the solution is. “Just have faith”. It’s a nice idea, but faith doesn't pay the bills. Working at my vocation, my calling, is what puts money in my pocket so I can pay rent and eat and do all those other fun things like drink beer. I know what happens when people go overboard with “trusting” faith with their needs... they end up hurting themselves, and usually many people around them. I am not going to renounce my faith and deny that I believe in God, or the tenants of Christianity, but I need to be realistic. And reality is telling me I need to rob a bank.
Just kidding. I am not going to be robbing any banks any time soon. But I am going to start working my ass off even harder than I have been. Instead of spreading myself thin as I have been, I need to focus on the one thing that will help me survive, and that is my career in design. I do not care where I start, I’m even willing to work crappy coffee shop jobs for a while, but I need to get my foot in the door, I need to get my portfolio all nice and shiny, and I need to work to convince the design world of Denver that I am what they need. It will not be easy, but I am always up for a challenge!
I am more than just a little disappointed at the moment. I would be frustrated, but some awesome acupuncture earlier today cleared that up. I have been making a conscious effort to not get stressed out or frustrated or angsty and simply keep doing what it is I do. And that is design.
But the disappointing this is that this aspect of my life, the thing that I feel I am best at, is not paying off. It should be, but my current employers, who promised me in contract that I would be paid biweekly for the services I render. At the least I should be paid at the end of each project and that is not even happening.
If you recall, some time ago I wrote a blog about being very excited to work for NeverAsk. I still love working for NeverAsk in many aspects, but things are going downhill very fast. To the point where I do not know how I am going to pay rent this month. And I owe money all over town, although not to known pornographers.
I just do not know what to do anymore. I am looking for a job that actually pays right now, but finding a job can take time and I am out of time. I cannot help feeling that I am responsible in some part for letting my friends walk all over me, but I can only take so much responsibility and that is what is frustrating about the situation... a lot of it is out of my hands. I do not like feeling helpless, but when things are out of my hands that is how I feel.
I know what most people are going to say the solution is. “Just have faith”. It’s a nice idea, but faith doesn't pay the bills. Working at my vocation, my calling, is what puts money in my pocket so I can pay rent and eat and do all those other fun things like drink beer. I know what happens when people go overboard with “trusting” faith with their needs... they end up hurting themselves, and usually many people around them. I am not going to renounce my faith and deny that I believe in God, or the tenants of Christianity, but I need to be realistic. And reality is telling me I need to rob a bank.
Just kidding. I am not going to be robbing any banks any time soon. But I am going to start working my ass off even harder than I have been. Instead of spreading myself thin as I have been, I need to focus on the one thing that will help me survive, and that is my career in design. I do not care where I start, I’m even willing to work crappy coffee shop jobs for a while, but I need to get my foot in the door, I need to get my portfolio all nice and shiny, and I need to work to convince the design world of Denver that I am what they need. It will not be easy, but I am always up for a challenge!
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Be What You Are...
Soundtrack: Amélie by Yann Tiersen
Earlier this month David Carson spoke at the Colorado chapter of AIGA. I didn’t get a chance to go see him, which was a big bummer since those who know me can tell you that David is by far my favorite graphic designer. However, the AIGA Colorado podcast for this month features the Q & A he did as part of his presentation. It was very short but extremely inspiring.
At one point David fields the following question: “What is the difference between Art and Design”. That is a terrific question and he had a great answer for it. Carson said “I think the lines have blurred... I’m driven more towards the art side of it.” He went on to point out that most of his influences are fine artists (like Mark Rothko) instead of other designers (like Paul Rand). He also mentioned that AIGA stands for the American Institue of Graphic Artists. And he ended with "I think you have to make that decision. It has to be I think, what you’re passionate about. It's your choice.”
I don’t quite know why, probably because the man is a god among men, but that statement had a huge impact on me. It has made me think long and hard about where I stand in the world of design. After all, this is a huge field and the range of careers within it is enormous: from accountants to art directors to illustrators to photographers. In fact anyone who wants to get into design can, it doesn't make any difference whether you are artistic or not. Just don’t expect to be a production artist or designer or an art director if you are lacking in artistic ability.
David Carson is in a unique position. He didn’t start his career in the commercial arts the usual way, which is going to school and getting an internship and then getting a crappy job as a web monkey or production artist or whatever. Here is a man who loved to surf, he loved music, he loved skateboarding, he loved that whole culture. He graduated with a degree in sociology and the only training he had in design was a couple of graphic design workshops. Instead of learning about art an design from the outside, as many of us in this industry go through, he learned all he could from the inside by immersing himself in the beach culture of the mid 80s. Punk rock, skateboarding, surfing, bohemian attitudes and an emphasis on self-expression through art is what he found; a gig as the art director of Transworld Skateboarding is what he walked away with. In 1991 his success as a professional surfer (he was ranked 9th in the world in 1989) allowed him to become the art director for Beach Culture, and it was there that he solidified the unique style that he had been cultivating. At the time the style was revolutionary and it ushered in the grunge era of design... an era that helped give the grunge era of music it's identity.
Since then he's worked for HOW magazine, founded Ray Gun magazine, and started up his own design studio where he's worked with everyone from Nike to Nine Inch Nails. Not bad for a guy who didn't even go to design school. And it has me wondering if I need to go to school. I've been in school for way too long. I have learned a lot here, but I have learned even more on my own. It has been good for me because most of my teachers have pushed me hard, sometimes to the breaking point and sometimes even past the breaking point. But I have also pushed myself and I work for people who know that even though I am good I can be better, much better. I just finished what I think has been my greatest design achievement this weekend. It’s just a web site, nothing even that sophisticated. But every step of the way I've had plenty of solid constructive criticism of my work and I have generated something that I feel is some of the best work I have ever done.
David Carson’s words are still ringing in my ears... do what I’m passionate about. It’s my decision. If I am not passionate about learning through books and homework anymore, but rather passionate about learning through immersing myself in what I want to do, in becoming a part of the culture of design, maybe I should stop doing what I am not passionate about and just start doing. David Carson worked hard. He wasn’t lucky, he wasn’t just in the right place at the right time, he was the right person at the right place at the right time with the right mindset and a drive to do something new. Revolutionary thinking is not easy. It is not something anyone can do. I believe it is something that 80% of the people on this earth are just flat out not capable of.
And I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am part of the other 20%. There is no ego, no simple arrogance, just fact. I know I am better than most people, and I think it is time for me to prove it.
I just have to decide what is the best way to accomplish that.
But I know I am going to be what I am and most of all be passionate about what I do. You should too.
Earlier this month David Carson spoke at the Colorado chapter of AIGA. I didn’t get a chance to go see him, which was a big bummer since those who know me can tell you that David is by far my favorite graphic designer. However, the AIGA Colorado podcast for this month features the Q & A he did as part of his presentation. It was very short but extremely inspiring.
At one point David fields the following question: “What is the difference between Art and Design”. That is a terrific question and he had a great answer for it. Carson said “I think the lines have blurred... I’m driven more towards the art side of it.” He went on to point out that most of his influences are fine artists (like Mark Rothko) instead of other designers (like Paul Rand). He also mentioned that AIGA stands for the American Institue of Graphic Artists. And he ended with "I think you have to make that decision. It has to be I think, what you’re passionate about. It's your choice.”
I don’t quite know why, probably because the man is a god among men, but that statement had a huge impact on me. It has made me think long and hard about where I stand in the world of design. After all, this is a huge field and the range of careers within it is enormous: from accountants to art directors to illustrators to photographers. In fact anyone who wants to get into design can, it doesn't make any difference whether you are artistic or not. Just don’t expect to be a production artist or designer or an art director if you are lacking in artistic ability.
David Carson is in a unique position. He didn’t start his career in the commercial arts the usual way, which is going to school and getting an internship and then getting a crappy job as a web monkey or production artist or whatever. Here is a man who loved to surf, he loved music, he loved skateboarding, he loved that whole culture. He graduated with a degree in sociology and the only training he had in design was a couple of graphic design workshops. Instead of learning about art an design from the outside, as many of us in this industry go through, he learned all he could from the inside by immersing himself in the beach culture of the mid 80s. Punk rock, skateboarding, surfing, bohemian attitudes and an emphasis on self-expression through art is what he found; a gig as the art director of Transworld Skateboarding is what he walked away with. In 1991 his success as a professional surfer (he was ranked 9th in the world in 1989) allowed him to become the art director for Beach Culture, and it was there that he solidified the unique style that he had been cultivating. At the time the style was revolutionary and it ushered in the grunge era of design... an era that helped give the grunge era of music it's identity.
Since then he's worked for HOW magazine, founded Ray Gun magazine, and started up his own design studio where he's worked with everyone from Nike to Nine Inch Nails. Not bad for a guy who didn't even go to design school. And it has me wondering if I need to go to school. I've been in school for way too long. I have learned a lot here, but I have learned even more on my own. It has been good for me because most of my teachers have pushed me hard, sometimes to the breaking point and sometimes even past the breaking point. But I have also pushed myself and I work for people who know that even though I am good I can be better, much better. I just finished what I think has been my greatest design achievement this weekend. It’s just a web site, nothing even that sophisticated. But every step of the way I've had plenty of solid constructive criticism of my work and I have generated something that I feel is some of the best work I have ever done.
David Carson’s words are still ringing in my ears... do what I’m passionate about. It’s my decision. If I am not passionate about learning through books and homework anymore, but rather passionate about learning through immersing myself in what I want to do, in becoming a part of the culture of design, maybe I should stop doing what I am not passionate about and just start doing. David Carson worked hard. He wasn’t lucky, he wasn’t just in the right place at the right time, he was the right person at the right place at the right time with the right mindset and a drive to do something new. Revolutionary thinking is not easy. It is not something anyone can do. I believe it is something that 80% of the people on this earth are just flat out not capable of.
And I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am part of the other 20%. There is no ego, no simple arrogance, just fact. I know I am better than most people, and I think it is time for me to prove it.
I just have to decide what is the best way to accomplish that.
But I know I am going to be what I am and most of all be passionate about what I do. You should too.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
I Just Want Something I Can Never... Had?
Soundtrack: “Something I Can Never Have” by Nine Inch Nails
“I have pretty much accepted the possibility that I will never be successful. My idea of success is just too fucked up and the bar too high.”
Ah yes, hopelessness and despair. Such an awesome and uplifting way of thinking. Beer and a crappy situation at work are responsible, but days later I recognize that all hope is not lost.
Setting the bar for success is always a tricky thing. Sure, it gives a person goals and ambitions to chase, but often we human beings set the bar according to our imaginations, and I have a pretty wild imagination. When I was eleven years old my brother and I would record these funny little interviews as us being rock stars. We were being half-serious, of course. Which means that there was, and still is, ambition towards that goal of being rock stars. Not so much for my brother, I don't think, but definitely for me.
I have been told from a young age that there are great things in store for me. Those kinds of statements can warp a young mind into an ego the size of Betelgeuse. Betelgeuse is thought to be at least 500 times larger than the sun. That’s pretty astronomically huge. And you wonder why I have a superiority complex.
“I have pretty much accepted the possibility that I will never be successful. My idea of success is just too fucked up and the bar too high.”
Ah yes, hopelessness and despair. Such an awesome and uplifting way of thinking. Beer and a crappy situation at work are responsible, but days later I recognize that all hope is not lost.
Setting the bar for success is always a tricky thing. Sure, it gives a person goals and ambitions to chase, but often we human beings set the bar according to our imaginations, and I have a pretty wild imagination. When I was eleven years old my brother and I would record these funny little interviews as us being rock stars. We were being half-serious, of course. Which means that there was, and still is, ambition towards that goal of being rock stars. Not so much for my brother, I don't think, but definitely for me.
I have been told from a young age that there are great things in store for me. Those kinds of statements can warp a young mind into an ego the size of Betelgeuse. Betelgeuse is thought to be at least 500 times larger than the sun. That’s pretty astronomically huge. And you wonder why I have a superiority complex.
Friday, February 16, 2007
I Like The Kind Of Labels That Come On Beer Bottles
Soundtrack: “Disconnectie: The Faithful Vampire” by Norma Jean
My, it's been a Norma Jean kind of day, hasn't it?
I just had an interesting conversation with a friend of mine. She's got this idea that religion isn't bad as long as people do not limit themselves by labeling themselves whatever that religion is. For example, as a Christian my beliefs are totally cool, but I should not call myself a Christian because I will be limiting myself. Which is a nice idea, sort of.
But I think she’s on the right track. I think where she is trying to go is this idea: do not define yourself by what you label yourself, i.e. nerd, jock, Christian, Muslim, graphic designer, theoretical analyst, etc. Instead, let your beliefs and who you are come out in the way you live your life. Are you a Jew? Work at a bank? Then don't live as a Jewish banker should, but as your belief dictates. That means studying scripture, giving to the poor and the widows, eating kosher foods, being responsible with money, taking care of the customer, fiscally sound, all that good stuff. After all, what good does it do to tattoo “philanthropist” on your forehead if all you are going to do is march around and point to it and say “I like to invest myself in people! Look at me!”
That seems to be what religion has turned into, though. In fact, it seems to be what American culture has turned into? Are you Republican or Democrat? Christian or Atheist? Black or White? Citizen or Illegal Immigrant? It's a culture of labels and extremes... no wonder we're so fucked up.
My, it's been a Norma Jean kind of day, hasn't it?
I just had an interesting conversation with a friend of mine. She's got this idea that religion isn't bad as long as people do not limit themselves by labeling themselves whatever that religion is. For example, as a Christian my beliefs are totally cool, but I should not call myself a Christian because I will be limiting myself. Which is a nice idea, sort of.
But I think she’s on the right track. I think where she is trying to go is this idea: do not define yourself by what you label yourself, i.e. nerd, jock, Christian, Muslim, graphic designer, theoretical analyst, etc. Instead, let your beliefs and who you are come out in the way you live your life. Are you a Jew? Work at a bank? Then don't live as a Jewish banker should, but as your belief dictates. That means studying scripture, giving to the poor and the widows, eating kosher foods, being responsible with money, taking care of the customer, fiscally sound, all that good stuff. After all, what good does it do to tattoo “philanthropist” on your forehead if all you are going to do is march around and point to it and say “I like to invest myself in people! Look at me!”
That seems to be what religion has turned into, though. In fact, it seems to be what American culture has turned into? Are you Republican or Democrat? Christian or Atheist? Black or White? Citizen or Illegal Immigrant? It's a culture of labels and extremes... no wonder we're so fucked up.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Ah, L’Amour...
Soundtrack: “Autumn Cannibalist” by Die Manequin
Let’s talk about romance. Real romance.
People in our wonderful little American culture have a seriously skewed view of what romance is. Most American men think romance is being old-fashioned and doing “cute” things to make a woman think you care about her. And women... the average American woman’s view of romance is so varied that it's no wonder we men are left dazed and confused.
Here what I believe the true definition of what true romance is: it is demonstrating to the other person in a relationship that this relationship you are is meaningful. Which means that there is no right way to be romantic, but plenty of wrong ways.
One thing that many people seem to be confused about is the fundamental differences between men and women when it comes to our senses. Sexually speaking, men are turned on by sight and women are turned on more by touch. That doesn't mean there are exceptions or other variables involved, just that in general the sexes work that way. Back to romance, men are almost right on the “cute” things. Not so much cute, though, as little things that demonstrate how you care about a girl. You do care about her, right? Right?
The thing that I think is killing romance is that everyone wants to be single and have fun. That doesn’t work. Oh sure, it may work for a little while, but the second you see a girl walking around with another guy, you get jealous. Unless she’s a prostitute, but we won't get into that. Romance is supposed to work in a sense of being in a deeper relationship. A relationship that will lead to a life-long union, whatever that may be. Traditionally it is marriage, but some people never officially tie the knot and end up being “life partners” or whatever.
I am willing to bet you are asking “so if romance is doing something that shows I care about a woman, how do I know what to do?” That's the hard part. That is where you, mister, need to find out how you can properly demonstrate this. And that is called commitment. Oh yes, the dreaded “c-word”. Please don't ask me how commitment works, though. I seem to be attracted to women who are deathly afraid of commitment in any shape. Ah, woe is me.
Let’s talk about romance. Real romance.
People in our wonderful little American culture have a seriously skewed view of what romance is. Most American men think romance is being old-fashioned and doing “cute” things to make a woman think you care about her. And women... the average American woman’s view of romance is so varied that it's no wonder we men are left dazed and confused.
Here what I believe the true definition of what true romance is: it is demonstrating to the other person in a relationship that this relationship you are is meaningful. Which means that there is no right way to be romantic, but plenty of wrong ways.
One thing that many people seem to be confused about is the fundamental differences between men and women when it comes to our senses. Sexually speaking, men are turned on by sight and women are turned on more by touch. That doesn't mean there are exceptions or other variables involved, just that in general the sexes work that way. Back to romance, men are almost right on the “cute” things. Not so much cute, though, as little things that demonstrate how you care about a girl. You do care about her, right? Right?
The thing that I think is killing romance is that everyone wants to be single and have fun. That doesn’t work. Oh sure, it may work for a little while, but the second you see a girl walking around with another guy, you get jealous. Unless she’s a prostitute, but we won't get into that. Romance is supposed to work in a sense of being in a deeper relationship. A relationship that will lead to a life-long union, whatever that may be. Traditionally it is marriage, but some people never officially tie the knot and end up being “life partners” or whatever.
I am willing to bet you are asking “so if romance is doing something that shows I care about a woman, how do I know what to do?” That's the hard part. That is where you, mister, need to find out how you can properly demonstrate this. And that is called commitment. Oh yes, the dreaded “c-word”. Please don't ask me how commitment works, though. I seem to be attracted to women who are deathly afraid of commitment in any shape. Ah, woe is me.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Well Now.
Soundtrack: “Muzzle” by The Smashing Pumpkins
Well, I have realized very recently that I need to either win the lottery or to get a new job.
I'm not counting on the lottery.
This is so damn annoying.
Well, I have realized very recently that I need to either win the lottery or to get a new job.
I'm not counting on the lottery.
This is so damn annoying.
Monday, January 22, 2007
I Grow Old, I Grow Old...
Soundtrack: “Dirty Harry” by Gorillaz
Not physically old, but old in the sense that time is starting to creep up on me and I'm not certain if I'm going to be out of school by the age of 30, much less ever.
But whatever. I'm going to enjoy this next year of my life as much as I can. In a little more than two week I'll be 26, and I think that's a good age. I only want two things for my birthday: the love and adoration of my friends, and a tattoo. The love and adoration part is more important, though.
For quite some time now I have been wondering if pop culture's recent obsession with remakes, sequels, and retoolings will ever stop. From glib cover versions of classic songs to movies that are simply trite remakes of great films, the wonderful media machine that is Hollywood and the recording industry is churning out tired but familiar sights and sounds to the masses. And we are eating it up. All I have to say is, “What is wrong with you, people?!”
I think we are on the verge of seeing something new. People will only take the 80’s hair rock rehashes for so long before they discard that for something new and exciting. But will this new thing really be new? Grunge and alternative beat the hair bands before, but they fizzled out quickly. Now alternative describes performers like Hootie and the Blowfish and Jack Johnson, which is ironic since the Alternative tag represented the music underground.
Here's how I see it. Music, and other media for that matter, is like a funnel. There is a ton of stuff on the surface, far too much for anyone person to completely process. As the music industry processes everything, it's funneled towards the tip of the funnel, which represents the Consumer. Everything eventually becomes more pop-oriented as it passes through the funnel. The stuff that is most accessible to the largest common denominator is the stuff that makes it through the neck of the funnel.
So no matter how esoteric music gets, it will eventually become watered down more and more each year until it becomes pop drivel. There's nothing we can do about it, that is just the way it is. If you love music, you'll take it as it is and just grin and bear it. There's always the stuff on the other end of the funnel, after all. It just takes some sifting.
Not physically old, but old in the sense that time is starting to creep up on me and I'm not certain if I'm going to be out of school by the age of 30, much less ever.
But whatever. I'm going to enjoy this next year of my life as much as I can. In a little more than two week I'll be 26, and I think that's a good age. I only want two things for my birthday: the love and adoration of my friends, and a tattoo. The love and adoration part is more important, though.
For quite some time now I have been wondering if pop culture's recent obsession with remakes, sequels, and retoolings will ever stop. From glib cover versions of classic songs to movies that are simply trite remakes of great films, the wonderful media machine that is Hollywood and the recording industry is churning out tired but familiar sights and sounds to the masses. And we are eating it up. All I have to say is, “What is wrong with you, people?!”
I think we are on the verge of seeing something new. People will only take the 80’s hair rock rehashes for so long before they discard that for something new and exciting. But will this new thing really be new? Grunge and alternative beat the hair bands before, but they fizzled out quickly. Now alternative describes performers like Hootie and the Blowfish and Jack Johnson, which is ironic since the Alternative tag represented the music underground.
Here's how I see it. Music, and other media for that matter, is like a funnel. There is a ton of stuff on the surface, far too much for anyone person to completely process. As the music industry processes everything, it's funneled towards the tip of the funnel, which represents the Consumer. Everything eventually becomes more pop-oriented as it passes through the funnel. The stuff that is most accessible to the largest common denominator is the stuff that makes it through the neck of the funnel.
So no matter how esoteric music gets, it will eventually become watered down more and more each year until it becomes pop drivel. There's nothing we can do about it, that is just the way it is. If you love music, you'll take it as it is and just grin and bear it. There's always the stuff on the other end of the funnel, after all. It just takes some sifting.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Fifteen Blows To The Back Of Your Skull
Soundtrack: “No Surpises” by Radiohead
Among the many different projects I am working on is the resurrection of an old band. One of the songs we started working on but never really did anything with was a cool and laid back version of Radiohead's “Climbing Up The Walls”. I love that song, in fact it is probably my favorite Radiohead song. It's about a mental institution, but it really strikes a chord in my life. Yeah, I feel just a little insane, sure, but it's more of what Thom Yorke sings in the chorus:
And either way you turn
I'll be there
Open up your skull
I'll be there
Climbing up the walls
I am not sure why those four little lines mean so much, but they do. And once I figure it out I'll let you all know. But that might be a while.
In the meantime, enjoy an amazing live performance of the song from the Glastonbury Festival 2003.
Among the many different projects I am working on is the resurrection of an old band. One of the songs we started working on but never really did anything with was a cool and laid back version of Radiohead's “Climbing Up The Walls”. I love that song, in fact it is probably my favorite Radiohead song. It's about a mental institution, but it really strikes a chord in my life. Yeah, I feel just a little insane, sure, but it's more of what Thom Yorke sings in the chorus:
And either way you turn
I'll be there
Open up your skull
I'll be there
Climbing up the walls
I am not sure why those four little lines mean so much, but they do. And once I figure it out I'll let you all know. But that might be a while.
In the meantime, enjoy an amazing live performance of the song from the Glastonbury Festival 2003.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
In Memoriam
Soundtrack: The Art Of Drowning by AFI
Dedicated to the memory of Nathan George. Rest in peace, friend.
Darkness
Sunny disposition aside,
Black nail polish doesn't fool anyone
Melancholy eyes aside,
You don't need to become them to save them
Open up the cold
Open up your bottle
Open up your skull
Let the darkness in
Bootstomping aside,
You persuade towards the digital
Melancholy prayers aside,
This time it's become personal
Open up the cold
Open up your bottle
Open up your skull
Let the darkness in
Your quest aside,
How has it come to this demise?
Your smile aside,
Did you die alone and shivering?
Open up your heart
Let the light in
Dedicated to the memory of Nathan George. Rest in peace, friend.
Darkness
Sunny disposition aside,
Black nail polish doesn't fool anyone
Melancholy eyes aside,
You don't need to become them to save them
Open up the cold
Open up your bottle
Open up your skull
Let the darkness in
Bootstomping aside,
You persuade towards the digital
Melancholy prayers aside,
This time it's become personal
Open up the cold
Open up your bottle
Open up your skull
Let the darkness in
Your quest aside,
How has it come to this demise?
Your smile aside,
Did you die alone and shivering?
Open up your heart
Let the light in
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Public Warning
Soundtrack: “Love Me Or Hate Me” by Lady Sovereign
It was the first day of classes today and I almost started off on the right foot. Almost. First off, I slept through my alarm this morning and missed my first class. Then I figured out I registered for the wrong English class... after I went to the class. So I need to work on those two things and I'll be back in the swing of things. Cake.
One of my classes is Web Design I. It is sure to be a fun class despite the fact my teacher doesn't really know the software. Yes, you read right. He will be learning alongside the class. He's a cool guy, too, which means I get to do whatever the hell I want. Booyah. I think I am going to take the opportunity to make it an independent study type situation. I already know the ins and outs of CSS, I know HTML like the back of my hand, so why not learn something I don't know? I know that Flash is going to be covered, and I'm fine with that, but I want to learn something other than just Flash. Quite a few somethings.
One of these somethings is databases. Especially SQL and the like. I have come to a point in my web design career that is one of those brick wall points. I can see over the wall, and I know that there is a way over. But I have not yet acquired the information necessary to get over the wall, and that is where this class comes in. So I am naturally excited. Once I am up over that wall it is all over, bitches.
Another thing I have discovered is that the class I have on Mondays and Wednesdays is two blocks from my house. I live off of Bruce Randolph and Humboldt and the classroom is on Martin Luther King and Humboldt. The only thing that would make it better is if I did not have to work on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Or if the class was on the Auraria campus, because I would not have to trek all the way down to the Tivoli on campus and then trek all the way back “home”... before heading to my internship on 14th and Ogden. Too bad I don't have a car. Oh well.
It was the first day of classes today and I almost started off on the right foot. Almost. First off, I slept through my alarm this morning and missed my first class. Then I figured out I registered for the wrong English class... after I went to the class. So I need to work on those two things and I'll be back in the swing of things. Cake.
One of my classes is Web Design I. It is sure to be a fun class despite the fact my teacher doesn't really know the software. Yes, you read right. He will be learning alongside the class. He's a cool guy, too, which means I get to do whatever the hell I want. Booyah. I think I am going to take the opportunity to make it an independent study type situation. I already know the ins and outs of CSS, I know HTML like the back of my hand, so why not learn something I don't know? I know that Flash is going to be covered, and I'm fine with that, but I want to learn something other than just Flash. Quite a few somethings.
One of these somethings is databases. Especially SQL and the like. I have come to a point in my web design career that is one of those brick wall points. I can see over the wall, and I know that there is a way over. But I have not yet acquired the information necessary to get over the wall, and that is where this class comes in. So I am naturally excited. Once I am up over that wall it is all over, bitches.
Another thing I have discovered is that the class I have on Mondays and Wednesdays is two blocks from my house. I live off of Bruce Randolph and Humboldt and the classroom is on Martin Luther King and Humboldt. The only thing that would make it better is if I did not have to work on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Or if the class was on the Auraria campus, because I would not have to trek all the way down to the Tivoli on campus and then trek all the way back “home”... before heading to my internship on 14th and Ogden. Too bad I don't have a car. Oh well.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
I Give Up
Soundtrack: “Conditional” by Living Sacrifice
I am done with reaching out to people. It is far too exhausting, and I really need to take some time to focus on forging a better me. Plus, people suck. They just do. The only people I can trust are my close friends. They are the only people who give without a thought of return. Sorry if all of this sounds emo and whiny and Livejournal-ish. I'll stop now.
The internship has been going well. I am working on some fun projects at the moment. One in particular that I like the best is an internet radio station. I am currently developing an identity system for the station, once it is done I will post the end result.
The poem du jour is a bit of an anti-corporate rant. You'll see why when you read it... and props to those who can pick out the various literary references.
Death Of A Salesman
It’s five minutes past four in the morning
I can’t seem to sleep
So I’ll take some NyQuil and some Quaaludes
And in the morning we’ll kill Nanny
After all these years
We end up worth more dead than alive
After all these years
We realize that life is a lie
White shirt
Fancy shoes
What’s worse?
Life or death?
That girl over there is pretty cute
She’s snorting cocaine
From a diamond-studded pocket mirror
Walk into a jungle and come out rich
After all these years
We end up worth more dead than alive
After all these years
We realize that life is a lie
White Shirt
Fancy suit
Be careful
Watch your back
This party could be better
This party should be better
This party could be killer
This party is all filler
I am done with reaching out to people. It is far too exhausting, and I really need to take some time to focus on forging a better me. Plus, people suck. They just do. The only people I can trust are my close friends. They are the only people who give without a thought of return. Sorry if all of this sounds emo and whiny and Livejournal-ish. I'll stop now.
The internship has been going well. I am working on some fun projects at the moment. One in particular that I like the best is an internet radio station. I am currently developing an identity system for the station, once it is done I will post the end result.
The poem du jour is a bit of an anti-corporate rant. You'll see why when you read it... and props to those who can pick out the various literary references.
Death Of A Salesman
It’s five minutes past four in the morning
I can’t seem to sleep
So I’ll take some NyQuil and some Quaaludes
And in the morning we’ll kill Nanny
After all these years
We end up worth more dead than alive
After all these years
We realize that life is a lie
White shirt
Fancy shoes
What’s worse?
Life or death?
That girl over there is pretty cute
She’s snorting cocaine
From a diamond-studded pocket mirror
Walk into a jungle and come out rich
After all these years
We end up worth more dead than alive
After all these years
We realize that life is a lie
White Shirt
Fancy suit
Be careful
Watch your back
This party could be better
This party should be better
This party could be killer
This party is all filler
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Coin Slots Are For The Weak
Soundtrack: Donnie Darko
Two things that made yesterday awesome:
1. I drank enough coffee to kill a small horse.
2. I discovered that Pop Tarts are extremely flammable.
The reason for the extreme coffee consumption yesterday is simple. I started training for my new job yesterday. I'm working at the coffee shop in the Tivoli Student Union at the Auraria campus. It used to be called The Daily Grind, but that went out of business so now it's Cimarron Café. I like Daily Grind better.
Coin Slot
Don't go out tonight
The darkness is sharp knives
My soul is begging you
Don't leave your birdcage
They watch with cat's eyes
They mean to do you harm
They stare at your plumage
And lick their dry lips
The coin goes in the slot
Ring the bell and jackpot
You light up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
The coin goes in the slot
Wrap your tears in this loss
Light me up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
Don't be weak
Don't do the easy thing
Display your supple fur
Wrap your vines around him
Don't drag you down alone
They watch with bated breath
They mean to do you harm
They stare at tiger stripes
That wrap around you
The coin goes in the slot
Ring the bell and jackpot
You light up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
The coin goes in the slot
Wrap your tears in this loss
Light me up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
Don't be weak
Two things that made yesterday awesome:
1. I drank enough coffee to kill a small horse.
2. I discovered that Pop Tarts are extremely flammable.
The reason for the extreme coffee consumption yesterday is simple. I started training for my new job yesterday. I'm working at the coffee shop in the Tivoli Student Union at the Auraria campus. It used to be called The Daily Grind, but that went out of business so now it's Cimarron Café. I like Daily Grind better.
Coin Slot
Don't go out tonight
The darkness is sharp knives
My soul is begging you
Don't leave your birdcage
They watch with cat's eyes
They mean to do you harm
They stare at your plumage
And lick their dry lips
The coin goes in the slot
Ring the bell and jackpot
You light up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
The coin goes in the slot
Wrap your tears in this loss
Light me up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
Don't be weak
Don't do the easy thing
Display your supple fur
Wrap your vines around him
Don't drag you down alone
They watch with bated breath
They mean to do you harm
They stare at tiger stripes
That wrap around you
The coin goes in the slot
Ring the bell and jackpot
You light up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
The coin goes in the slot
Wrap your tears in this loss
Light me up and go to sleep
Coin slots are for the weak
Don't be weak
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
