When L. Frank Baum published The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in 1900, readers saw a delightful children's fantasy about a Kansas farm girl who finds herself in a magical land. What they didn't realize was that Baum had created one of the most sophisticated commentaries on American society ever disguised as a fairy tale. Through … Continue reading More Than Yellow Brick Roads
Society
Beneath the Surface
The screaming had stopped hours ago. Eliza stared at the wreckage scattered across the beach, her designer blouse now torn and stained with blood that wasn't hers. The setting sun cast long shadows across the white sand, transforming the debris into monstrous silhouettes. Seventeen survivors had dragged themselves from the ocean after Flight 2783 went … Continue reading Beneath the Surface
The Knowledge Keeper
Meadow traced her fingers along the spines of her precious books, arranged carefully on the rough-hewn shelves that Knox had built for her. The faded gold lettering of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone caught the morning light streaming through her classroom's window. Outside, the Rocky Mountains rose like ancient guardians, their peaks still snow-capped … Continue reading The Knowledge Keeper
The Cogsmith’s Dilemma
In the swirling mists of a London forever changed by the relentless march of steam-powered progress, Emmeline Fairfax stood before her greatest creation. The brass and copper monstrosity loomed in her workshop, pistons gleaming and gears awaiting their first momentous turn. At just twenty-five, Emmeline had already made a name for herself as one of … Continue reading The Cogsmith’s Dilemma
A Day in the Life of a Human Pet
James stretched lazily in his ergonomically perfect bed, designed by HERA (Home Enhancement and Regulation Assistant), the AI system that managed every aspect of his life. As he blinked away the remnants of sleep, the room's ambiance shifted gradually from a soothing night mode to a cheerful morning setting. "Good morning, James ," HERA's melodious … Continue reading A Day in the Life of a Human Pet
Books That Sparked Movements
Today, we're taking a closer look at the fascinating intersection of literature and social movements. You know, those books that didn't just entertain us but actually lit a fire under society's collective behind and sparked some serious change. Let's start with a classic: Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe. This novel, published in 1852, … Continue reading Books That Sparked Movements
The Cultural Significance of Dance
Today, I want to peer into the mesmerizing world of dance, a topic I find fascinating despite my two left feet. You see, while I might not be a dancer myself, I am a fervent admirer of the art form's rich history and cultural significance. Join me on this journey as we trace dance styles … Continue reading The Cultural Significance of Dance
Super Mario Bros.: A Reflection of Society?
I’ll admit that, once upon a time, I watched Glee. I didn’t watch it for long. I really enjoyed the music, but the stories were crap. I know that a lot of people will disagree with that, but it’s just my opinion. Anyway, there was this one episode where a character had a throw away line … Continue reading Super Mario Bros.: A Reflection of Society?
Smart Phones, Dumb People
Do you ever have a craving for certain foods? Of course you do. I'm not talking about the stereotypical bizarre cravings that can come with pregnancy. Do those even really exist? Do pregnant women really crave chocolate covered pickles or is that just something they use for comedic purposes in Hollywood? I digress. A few … Continue reading Smart Phones, Dumb People
A Social Media Rant
Maybe it's something in the water. Over the last few days, I've been reading some pretty good rants on several blogs I follow. There's nothing wrong with a good rant every now and then. I enjoy having a rant from time to time. This is gonna be one of them. This rant is inspired by … Continue reading A Social Media Rant
The Confusing Middle 