Fashion Statement...chapter 5
Whenever I get disgruntled with mankind and I see evidence of his fantastic everflowing imagination in its infinite combination of parts..... all is forgiven.
Photo byJodi Cobb 1999.
posted by jm at 4:32 AM
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Whenever I get disgruntled with mankind and I see evidence of his fantastic everflowing imagination in its infinite combination of parts..... all is forgiven.
Photo byJodi Cobb 1999.
About Me
- Name: jm
I am a brilliant creation of the universe formed from the cosmic protoplasm sailing into eternity. I have two hands, two feet, a couple of great ears, and I'm clipping through life at a moderate pace; minding my p*s and q*s, crossing my t*s, dotting every i.
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Previous Posts
- Uncle Benny on a Neptune Transit
- Bloghdad Ahoy!
- Love in Times of War
- Slow and Easy
- Moisture
- Saturday Night Fish Fry
- The Changed Face of American Politics
- Jeepers Creepers! Where'd you get those peepers? ...
- Possibility
- Pleasure
48 Comments:
jm, you made me spew my tea this morning. ROFLMAO.
I wonder if they're able to don their outfits without laughing?
those outfits are so charming.
and thank you jm for your perspective yesterday which always gets me out of my rather conventional way of thinking -- I'm going to find a way to really enjoy a regal sprawl...
"Something new and strange is beginning in the house."
Hippolytos
hmmmmm, I recognize those outfits! All those years of reading Nat'l Geo comes back to me . . . Say, does anyone want stacks of old Nat'l Geo's?! Just kidding . . . :-)
JM
That is a fashion statement indeed. I'd like to think that in the grand scheme of things it's not what we wear but where we are that counts.
those outfits are so charming.
To think that this is a passage to manhood!!
Something new and strange is beginning in the house.
I believe so. I've never noticed anything conventional about you, juju. But that could be me.
I'd like to think that in the grand scheme of things it's not what we wear but where we are that counts.
Long time no see, partner. Glad you took your advice for a tiny break.
I don't think we really know where we are. Maybe fashion helps us establish this.
I do know that clothes are one of the greatest forms of self expression and outlet for our fantasies. Our chance to create ourselves anew. I've noticed that an outfit can alter behavior to some extent. I've got some quotes on this subject that I'll post in a bit.
I wish people would express even more of their individuality and then the world stage might be more to my liking.
Here's a couple.
What one is is nothing. What one seems to be is everything.
Jean-Jaques Rousseau
Should we be silent and not speak our raiment and state of bodies would bewray what life we have led.
William Shakespeare from Coriolanus
I love this subject.
People say that clothes are image and superficiality, but I disagree. I think costuming is primordial and necessary to man's creative survival and communication. Words are so plentiful, excessive really, that they lose a lot of meaning and impact. I think people tune out most of what others say.
I see more revealed in facial expression, eyes, the way people move, the sound of their voices, and of course, the lay of the land in their clothing. Not just what they wear but how they wear it.
Words can cover up a lot in the overall scheme of things in human communication.
Clothes are like a second skin, too. Comfortable people look comfortable in what they wear.
Theater has always been primary nourishment for man's soul. I'm looking for a better public show and would even pay for a high priced ticket.
Has anyone talked to tseka lately? Those wildfires in California sound vicious -- does anybody know if she's all right?
I agree jm. There's something about the whole picture and clothes are a big part. And if I'm wearing sweats and slippers I'm in a different frame of mind than boots and jeans or a slinky dress and heels. I watched our favorite (but not so favorite anymore) pol BW on the tube last night and he was dressed just like the Republican and tried to talk like him too. The liberrtarian had on the plaid shirt and fuzzy beard -- and if we weren't stuck in this two party system and I knew nothing about the other two I'd have definitely been more drawn to him. I think there's a reason they say clothes make the man, though so does posture, facial expressions, tone of voice and all those things that you mentioned. But maybe like Oscar Wilde(?) deep down I'm shallow.
But maybe like Oscar Wilde(?) deep down I'm shallow.
Ha ha! Sounds like him.
Very interesting. The outer look is the first thing we judge and all of our responses lead to this discrimination in determining what attracts and repels and where we are safe.
I met a labor leader who said BW was losing some of his shine. This verifies. It makes sense about the Libertarian. They believe in individuality and self determination. I disagree with many of them policywise, but agree with the fundamental idea of nonintervention of authority.
I didn't like the way BW looked when I met him, although I like his voice.
There's a whole body of theories on the psychological motivation of dress. We have to wear something, and even if people say it's not important, I wonder.
It's one of the great places for freedom of choice. Interesting that people are shy about excercising it, although they do anyway if only in subtle ways.
I think everytime we go out there is hope and expectation. Costuming is part of the hope that something special will occur. It's amazing that most of the time it doesn't, but our hopes always return. There is a rite of passage everytime we go out.
I remember once when I was given a star spot in a room I worked as a singer. Everyone was pleased, except maybe the owner's wife who was a wannabe singer and guitar player. They eventually diminished me and ended up placing me in the back corner by the kitchen. Of course, I knew this was the end. So my way of dealing with the humiliation on this last night was to wear my finest gown and brightest rhinestone jewelry. I was a queen no matter what they did.
Clothes are also comfort and protection. I stopped wearing earrings when I found them to be a liability rather than an asset. I worried about them getting pulled from the holes so I let the holes fill in.
Then I found the clip-ons hurt and felt wrong. So I finally dropped them altogether.
I remember what you were wearing the night I met you as well as your hair and everything about your self expression. We always say we want memorable experiences, and this is our chance.
I love that you dressed up and showed them. We have to know when to stand up for ourselves and glitter! Its funny, in the Santa Barbara airport I saw a woman all in proper khaki and nice polo shirt, and then she had bright yellow crocs on her feet. I personally hate crocs, but I've noticed its a place sometimes otherwise drab people seem to feel they can allow themselves a bit of expression.
I like too what you say about going out and that getting ready -- it is like putting on a new personality for the evening -- and the idea of hope. Sometimes I get annoyed seeing everyone out at night in their drab fleece jackets. Its something the environmental movement seems to lack -- a sense of style and sensuality.
I've just read Martha Gellhorn's bio -- and she felt it was a kind of courtesy to others to try to look good. She kind of carried it to extremes and was a tortured soul, and always worrying about weight, but I think there is something to this.
Sometimes I get annoyed seeing everyone out at night in their drab fleece jackets. Its something the environmental movement seems to lack -- a sense of style and sensuality.
Sometimes I sense a sort of self immolation or even false humility in these types. As if the political cause precludes such so called superficiality, and takes attention away from the important things.
I think the reverse. Beautiful, confident self presentation can help any cause.
The female politician I posted about earlier who was a Pacifist and activist, wore gorgeous clothes and hats. Gave dramatic eloquent speeches too.
That's a great story about the woman and her yellow crocs. Feet and shoes are a whole lifetime of commentary themselves.
she felt it was a kind of courtesy to others to try to look good.
I totally love this statement. I agree. Everybody has senses and the abuse of them is rampant in society. Things that bring pleasure are always an asset and it show self respect as well as this courtesy towards others.
Rebels are another thing, but common courtesy is good by and large. Care about presentation would affect behavior and manners.
I think we might be headed in that direction soon in this society.
I've noticed that a lot of women artists wear plaid shirts.
"I do know that clothes are one of the greatest forms of self expression and outlet for our fantasies. Our chance to create ourselves anew. I've noticed that an outfit can alter behavior to some extent."
Oh so true... Playing dress up is always grand. I've always felt that fashion is marvelous form of creative expression and when a person can go from one realm to another by a mere change of clothes is knack. Not everyone can pull it off.
Truly I need more breaks, the sun has moved into my realm... it's always good to change perspective now and then.
Pamela, I'm overjoyed, if that's possible, to see you back. You've done so much to try and help us all out of this jam and your efforts will pay off. You never slacken and your loyalty is unsurpassed.
I probably can't express fully how I feel about what you're doing, but I think you know. Your Scorpio/Aquarius combo is trying to bring deep satisfaction to the collective. And truth. You're good in hard times. Sometimes I wonder how you endure the things you do to continue the way you know best.
I remember when you became that almost raven haired beauty suddenly and I loved it. you have a flair with your style and it works. I noticed a certain person couldn't help but draw you into his embrace. I suspect you'll be getting more of this.
There's always promise with the pain and soon I think we'll realize some of this. There's always a payoff.
So good to see you.
JM
Sometimes we'd rather do with out the pain, my friend. My aquarian moon just had an upset with an aquarian sun. By law of nature water puts out the fire. ;)
I hear it's snowing in Denver while CA is burning. Mother nature is very upset these days. The current crop of corrupted corporate barrons have not learned that you can sell the mother.
Sleep calls... drop by. You're sassy spirit is missed.
LOL! I'm even missing my sassy self!
I'm letting them get over this hump and then I'll probably get back in the swing.
Such good people in your corner of Bloghdad.
I'd love to get back to the late night fun.
By law of nature water puts out the fire.
Yeah but there can be a lot of steam and boil to get to that point.
I do think the laws of nature are our best bet.
Hypocrisy is in the pot and it it made a fine stew in it's own juices. Boiled over and left a nasty residue. Tough to clean up after.
One should always remember not to mess with the laws of nature. We learn whe the snake is in the middle in the road it's best to move around it rather than play with it. The rabbit, the symbol of the the mother is quick to bounce and the one who runs with the wolves protects the den.
The rabbit, the symbol of the the mother
Really? Didn't know that.
We learn whe the snake is in the middle in the road it's best to move around it rather than play with it.
This is a major one in my book. Walking away is a great feeling.
I agree. Rabbits are a sign of fertility due to their numerous litters. Some Tarot decks will show the Empress card with rabbits somewhere in the picture.
Yes, the rabbit is one of the many symbols of the Goddess.
In our youth I think some of us see playing with snakes as game, as the wisdom of age sets in, the snake is not so cumming nor amusing.
I'm afraid of snakes and the boys loved playing with them when I was a child. Some people really have no fear.
The snake is loaded with symbolism and I've always tried to pinpoint the essence of its power.
What do you think, Pamela?
It's interesting. Rabbits have taken over Denver and so far have not posed a problem. They are everywhere... in the fields and on the city streets. Beautifully adapted and enjoying life. The people are also still enjoying them. There's a delight in spotting a rabbit that's always there.
I wonder what that says about this environment?
Chinese mythology also associates a rabbit with a goddess figure.
The Moon Festival fell this year on October 6, earlier this month.
A traditional story associated with the Moon Festival tells of a jade rabbit on the moon. Supposedly we can see its shape in the lunar features. It made elixirs and pounded medicines. Some say that it is really the the Moon Goddess in another guise. I saw a movie about her once.
There are at least four different versions of her story. In one version, she and her husband were once immortals. When the ten suns came together and parched the earth, her husband was asked by the emperor to destroy them. He shot nine of them with magic arrows, wisely leaving one. But the emperor was displeased that he did not follow the precise order, and took away their immortality to punish him.
The archer went on a quest for the pill of immortality. A queen gave it to him, warning that only half of it was needed to regain immortality. His wife found it and swallowed the whole thing, thereby obtaining the power of flight. He made the mistake of scolding her, whereupon she flew out the window and floated helplessly up to the Moon.
She ordered the jade rabbit to make another pill so that she could return with it to her husband.
In another version, the hero slowly became a old despotic king, and he stole the elixir of immortality from a goddess. (Maybe he is a solar eclipse figure?) His wife then drank it to save the people from his tyranny, and by its power she escaped to the Moon.
I rather like that there's more than one variation.
JM
I've probably played with a few too many snakes in my life. They're highly over-rated and can be very dangerous creatures.
Kadimiros
I have a collection of books on the Goddess - some many variations on each of them. The Moon Goddess is one of my favorites. The symbolism of the moon in Goddess mythology is very prevelant. I could go on and on about all of that. Another time...
I keep getting bumped offline so if I don't answer that what's happening! So much to respond to.
I could go on and on about all of that. Another time...
Hopefully after the election circus!
Now on to the rabbits.
I am astounded by your knowledge, kadimiros. Is this all in your memory?
I'm puzzled by the rabbit association. Rabbits seem like such little nondramatic creatures. But I do know there is more to them.
Actually man has used all animals as symbols. If the turkey almost became our national bird, anything can happen.
LOL! I wonder if old Ben Franklin was joshing when he suggested the turkey. Let's look him up.
Well, speak of the proverbial devil (or snake)! I just found out that "In 1775, Franklin made a good case for the Rattlesnake as an appropriate symbol of 'the temper and conduct of America.'" I don't know about that man...heh!
See how quickly things can grow interesting.
Well, I imagine that my brain has scattered bits and pieces, and they all sort of rearrange themselves in new designs in response to outside stimuli.
My mother used to tell me about the Moon goddess. And coincidentally, my sister is named Cynthia, which is the name of an ancient Moon goddess.
Maybe I sense some things in a gestalt sort of way, and then I quickly look up details to refresh my memory or augment an idea as I go along. Also, I played news editor one year in high school; I'm trained to not want to get it wrong. Sometimes it's just a teasing feeling that I follow until I find something interesting. I sometimes suspect that I use it to help troubleshoot computer programs in my work.
So, it appears that Ben was making fun when he suggested the turkey as national emblem. He was taking off on a particularly bad, turkey-like drawing of an eagle on the seal of a Cincinnati society of revolutionary war officers.
In light of the Moon festival legends, it's kind of fun to see this week science news headlines that our "Sun had many sisters". The Sun formed in a dense cluster of hundreds to thousands of stars. From analysis of radioactive isotopes trapped in meteors, at least one nearby star went supernova, and yet our solar system survived.
HA HA HA HA HA!!
Franklin made a good case for the Rattlesnake as an appropriate symbol of 'the temper and conduct of America.'" I don't know about that man...heh!
How coincidental! Don't know about him either.
See how quickly things can grow interesting.
Yes.
Finally!!!!
Shoot! That changes my thinking on the turkey and the USA.
The Sun formed in a dense cluster of hundreds to thousands of stars. From analysis of radioactive isotopes trapped in meteors, at least one nearby star went supernova, and yet our solar system survived..
That's what this space machine is supposed to ascertain in 5 years. The details.
More lunar rabbits. What fun. :-) I read that Easter was originally a lunar holiday. So the Easter rabbit could be regarded as a lunar fertility symbol.
Quotes from a neopagan site:
"...a Western Rocky Native tale has a three legged rabbit (who later makes himself a fourth leg from wood-the first artificial limb no doubt. Clever bunny!) shooting down the sun because everything on earth was just too hot!"
How bizarrely parallel to the Chinese legend!
"In the Aztec empires of Mexico, the rabbit was associated with moon. Likewise the Mayans saw a rabbit in the moon and often depicted the Lunar Goddess holding a rabbit."
"The name of the hare in Egyptian is Un, which signifies open, to open, the opener, especially connected with periodicity, as the word also means the hour. The hare is the hieroglyphic sign of the opener, which can be variously applied to the phenomena of opening; to the sun as well as the moon."
Eastern countries such as China, Korea, Japan, India also have stories about a rabbit on the Moon. In Japan, the rabbit is seen to be standing on tip-toes, pounding rice to make mochi cakes, the sweet snack. Then again, in Mongolia, where dogs are highly respected, they say that a dog lives on the Moon. When children lie, they are told, "Why do you lie? See, the dog in the Moon is barking because of your lie."
Well we have the Man in the Moon! That'll tell ya!
I really am amazed at all this rabbit legend. I never knew they were so elevated. Interesting the relationship with the moon. Could it be their tickling of imagination?
Maybe I sense some things in a gestalt sort of way, and then I quickly look up details to refresh my memory or augment an idea as I go along.
You mean you make it all up.
"Shoot! That changes my thinking on the turkey and the USA."
Well, I used to believe that factoid, too. But this time, I thought, waitaminnit, those founding fathers were damn smart, and Ben was such a damn smart@**.
"You mean you make it all up."
LOL! Very possible!
"Interesting the relationship with the moon. Could it be their tickling of imagination?"
Well, let's see....
Seems to be a number of things. Maybe principally, that their gestation is one month long, amplifying the effect of their fertility, hence the assocation with the lunar cycle. Every year, each female produces, starting in spring and ending in autumn, about 35 young!
I guess that ties nicely with Easter in the spring and the lunar holiday in the autumn celebrating the successful harvest. The Mid-autumn Moon Festival is a legal holiday in some countries.
Wow, people eat moon cakes, star fruit sliced thin, and pomelos (the grapefruit is a cross between the pomelo and the orange).
waitaminnit
LOL.
Maybe principally, that their gestation is one month long, amplifying the effect of their fertility, hence the assocation with the lunar cycle.
Of course. Our walking, talking encyclopedia always comes through.
Isn't the star fruit something!
Let me add to the rabbit theme. Eggs are also fertility symbols. They appear to contain the sun (yolk) and the moon (white), and many cosmologies hold that the universe or the world was born from a cosmic egg that hatched and brought forth all creation.
In Ukrainian symbols, hens and roosters are the symbols of fertility, rather than rabbits.
BTW, the word Easter apparently comes from some goddess of the spring, Eostre or Eostar. I can't recall which culture she belongs to, however...
Eggs are also fertility symbols. They appear to contain the sun (yolk) and the moon (white)
I can't believe it. I didn't even think of the white and the moon. I thought of the fluidity but not the color. Excellent.
the word Easter apparently comes from some goddess of the spring, Eostre or Eostar. I can't recall which culture she belongs to, however...
Let's find out.
So JM, what is there for the warrior that appears out of no where?
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