Summer 2023

Both sides of the canal: A report on the dyeing industry in Keqiao, Shaoxing

BLOSSOM

-Summer Issue

Tianyi Shen

"Mules and Men: A Sociological Analysis” Hazel Chen

The Boy Who Lived Yanjun Chen

http://www.blossomquarterly.com/

2023/9/30

Welcome!

We are junior and senior students from several high schools in Nanjing.

Our authors and artists contribute their works and boost their diversity and creativity in Blossom community. We are expecting submissions from various young authors and artists, and we appreciate works from disparate perspective. In Blossom, our fiction, academic essays, photography and art paintings are shared. They will illustrate our creative ideas, aesthetic vision, and academic explorations.

Youth is like blossom: to wait, to fall, to grow. to live, to triumph.

Blossom Magazine Group

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

From Baroque to Impressionism: on four classical pieces

Gloria

1

More than a poet —— but a life fighter, a soul builder, and a mental supporter

Lily Zeng

5

Tina

8

Tianyi Shen

23

Zeyu Zhang

27

Introduction to poetry

The use of AI in medical treatment: good or bad?

Chandle

11

An Intimate Odyssey through Love and War: The Song of Achilles

Catherine Yu

13

Mules and Men: A Sociological Analysis Hazel Chen

15

Voices of the Marginalized: Exploring South Korean Low-class Theme Films

Wenxi Hu

17

Both sides of the canal: A report on the dyeing industry in Keqiao, Shaoxing Happy Birthday, Miku

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

The Butterfly The Boy Who Lived

Late summer melancholy

Eric

32

Gone when the flowers bloom again

Eric

32

Storm · Torch

Tianyi Shen

33

God's call

Kim Chang

35

Lily Zeng

36

Yanjun Chen

41

Beyond the Veil: Understanding the Hijab's Multifaceted Role in a Post-9/11 Era Yawen Xie

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

46

Group Introduction

Tianyi Shen

Hazel Chen

Yawen Xie

Editor in Chief (Co)

Editor in Chief (Co)

Production Manager

Lily Zeng

Kim Chang

Catherine Yu

Deputy Production Manager

Art Editor

Deputy Editor

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

Group Introduction

Yanjun Chen

Gloria

Eric Zeyu Zhang

Fiction Editor

Music Editor

Photograph Editor

Tina

Haitian Hu

Ryan Jiang

Poetry Editor

Reader — Special Contributor

Reader

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

Group Introduction

Wenxi Hu

Lucia Min

Palos Liu

Creative Director (Co)

Creative Director (Co)

Issue Designer (Co)

Zoe Li

Frank

Issue Designer (Co)

Website Designer

https://www.blossomquarterly.com/backissues

Written By Gloria

1

MUSIC SECTION

Part 1 Advertisement of student works This part will be receiving and collecting advertisements of performances by student clubs.

For the public ones, we can mention the access to the tickets, while for private ones, we can show the access to the videos.

Also, this part accepts personal contribution, including personal recordings or videos, personal original works of composing, and all other personal works of music. I will select some, pack them together and use a QR code or link to help readers get access to them.

If you want to show your works at this part, please send messages to gloire9213@gmail.com

Piece introduced: Poème Op.25 by Ernest Chausson

BY GLORIA

It is a touching classical piece, isn't it? Composed in the nineteenth century, this piece is easily veiled behind a great number of famous pieces by Mahler, Vagner, or other titanic figures during the same period. However, despite a little less reputation, Chausson's Poème always got loads of attention from aftercoming musicians and amateurs and is still played and recorded nowadays.

Now let's take a closer look at it.

Basic information Ernest Chausson’s Poème for Violin and Orchestra was composed in 1896, and it was dedicated to Eugène Ysaÿe.

About the form In the last few decades of the nineteenth century, literature, music, and painting were inspired by each other. Great artists in France met each other in salons and exchanged artistic trials and experiments. A famous example is, Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune, composed in 1894, was based on Stéphane Mallarmé’s poem.

The form, “Poème”, obviously appeared in this period.

Ysaÿe explained that the “Poème” as a concept appealed to him because: It favors the expression of feeling without being subject to the restrictions of the Concerto form; it can be lyrical or dramatic and

Unique points in music When enjoying the music, we often consider why the lovely piece of music appeals to us that much. Therefore, I want to go a little deep down and reveal the unique characteristics of this piece, as well as a few fragments that I personally adore and recommend most.

VERSION RECOMMENDED:

Poème, Op.25 is a piece in one movement (as you can see obviously in the recording), with a variety of tempo markings and meter changes, not restricted by concerto or sonata forms, and not restricted by tonality either.

is in essence half romantic, half impressionistic. It comprises light and shadow and every intervening shade; the composer can paint what he wishes without keeping within any rigid framework. In a word, the Poème is a picture painted without a model.

I believe the imitation of the theme is a highlight aspect of the piece. There are two themes in this piece, and the first theme, which includes four phrases, was imitated several times. In the climax part of the piece, different instruments began to repeat the first phrase of the theme in different keys, forming a climbing and ascending melody, bringing tension to the audience. Suddenly, everything opaque stopped, and all the instruments together repeated theme I at a slower pace and longer meter. At this point, everything turns out to be majestic and sacred.

I think that “Poème Elégiaque” marks a definite step in my work as a composer for it contains clear evidence of my desire to link music and virtuosity —the true virtuosity which had been neglected.

Another thing worth discussing is the color. The composer loved to use un-functional chords and pentatonic scales to control the color of the piece accurately. This filled the piece with an exotic and oriental feeling, also expressing Chausson's understanding of impressionism.

This inspired Chausson, who came up with this trial to compose a “Poème” in the Walloon style.

Reference Mao Y. Ernest Chausson's" Poème", Op. 25 in cultural context[M]. The University of Memphis, 2016.

Ysaÿe and Ratcliffe, Ysaÿe, 218.

I believe this is a piece worth listening to in a quite space. While listening to it, you can feel the dreamy atmosphere the piece constructed, and the accuracy of color under the pen of Chausson.

MUSIC—PART 2 INTRODUCTION AND REVIEW ON MUSIC PIECES

2

01

Piece recommended: Dido’s Lament

by Henry Purcell

BY GLORIA

Do you like this piece? Here are some basic information.

Dido’s Lament is an aria in the opera Dido and Aeneas, composed by Henry Purcell. Living in the seventeenth century, he was an English composer of Baroque music. The opera Dido and Aeneas was composed between 1680 and 1688 and performed at Josias Priest’s girls’ school in London. It was regarded as a landmark in the history of English Drama music.

Feature of voice We are very used to the voice of singers in the operas, especially those composed in the classical and romanticism period: focused, thick and accompanied by vibrato. This kind of voice can make the expression of music perfectly clear in large theatres. However, things were different for Dido’s Lament. Developed in the late seventeenth century, performed in school, the voice for this piece was meant to be clean, thinner and without too much vibrato. This creates a rather ethereal sense. Hildergard, a remarkable female composer once described chants in the chapels “feather on the breath of god”. though Dido’s lament is a aria in an early opera rather than a chant, it offered me the similar kind of feeling: floating in the air, light and neat.

Verse and melody Dido’s lament, in my opinion, is a perfect example of how the effects in music interacts with the verse it was based on. For instance, when the verse goes “When I am laid” the composer used descending chromatic melodic sequence to illustrate this meaning. When the verse goes to “trouble”, the two notes for this word presents an diminished fifth relationship, creating a little bit dissonance and sadness, perfectly matching the verse. In this way, verse and melody combined tensely, amplifying same information together.

VERSION RECOMMENDED:

Reference https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dido%27s_Lament https://youtube.com/playlist? list=PLh9mgdi4rNezhx8YiGIV8I22ICSuzslja&feature =shared

This is a rather old English song, but I believe can still match our emotions nowadays. The floating sadness and soft tone can touch the deep part of our souls.

Piece recommended: Annees De Pelerinage: Les Jeux D'Eau De La Villa D'Este An Pel Italie by Franz Liszt

BY GLORIA

Do you think you are listening to the water and fountains? If you think so, then you are perfectly getting the point. Just as its name represents, this is a piece about fountains.

MUSIC—PART 2 INTRODUCTION AND REVIEW ON MUSIC PIECES

3

02

Author and history Franz Liszt, a giant figure in the romanticism period, led a colorful life.

He spent the part of the last period of his life in the Villa d’Este, a beautiful estate covered with great many fountains and prosperous green trees. The fountains were carefully designed by famous architects in its days. They were elegant, and at the same time they always brought coolness into hot summers. This is exactly the reason why when you get close to this piece, you can see the water and sunshine, peacefully danced together under the shade of summer trees.

VERSION RECOMMENDED:

In my mind, this piece is just as beautiful as the architecture in the Villa d’Este, where you can feel a special definition of elegance, peace and life.

Effect on piano Though most time considered as a composer in the romanticism period, Liszt actually influenced musicians in the impressionism period too. Jeux d’eau by Ravel was a piece inspired by Les Jeux D'Eau De La Villa D'Este An Pel Italie, you can find similarities between these two pieces, and one of the similarities is, they used similar effect on piano when illustrating the water. It is not hard to understand this effect. Think of paintings in the impressionism period, specifically their brush work: when you look at them close, they were just a series of individual gestures, but when you stand back, they offered you shimmering impression. They focused on the light and shadow, as well as the special colorful emotion. Same things happened in the effect of piano in this piece by Liszt. Chords were played as arpeggios, combined with the usage of pedal, and played rapidly. In this way, you only heard some very water-like sounds, and it was hard to notice individual notes.

Reference https://youtube.com/playlist? list=PLh9mgdi4rNezhx8YiGIV8I22ICSuzslja&feature =shared

WRITTEN BY GLORIA

Piece recommended: Serenade in G major, K525: Allegro by Mozart

I believe that you must have heard this piece before, its first theme had been transformed into different versions, and even used as the background music of some advertisements. However, though we often hear some fragments, we seldom have chance to listen to the whole movement of this piece. Therefore, let’s enjoy the whole piece this time, dig up something deeper, and find out the form it was based on.

MUSIC—PART 2 INTRODUCTION AND REVIEW ON MUSIC PIECES

4

03

The form This movement is a perfect example of Sonata-allegro form, a form developed in the classical period, and usually used in the first movement of a piece. This form usually includes five main parts, now I am going to introduce this, using this K525 as an example: Introduction This usually functions as a beginning of the whole piece, and it is optional. For instance, this piece, the K525, doesn’t have an introduction part.

Exposition This is the first main part of the movement. It usually contains two themes, as well as a transition between them.

For our K525, the first theme is the “GDGDGDGBD”one, and the second theme is “DCBAGECAD”. It is quite obvious that the first theme starts the tonic note, and the second theme starts with the domestic note. In some other pieces of the Sonata-allegro form, the first theme is based on a minor key, and the second theme is based on its relative major.

VERSION RECOMMENDED:

Coda This simply means the end of the whole piece, and it is also optional. In this part you can hear that everything is getting more and more simple and eventually returned to the tonic chord. Mozart liked to write short codas, and they are usually clear and neat.

Reference

Development (contraction) This is a part filled with polyphony and counterpoint, and is usually ended with a transitional melody.

Recap This part is similar to the exposition. You can hear the main themes being repeated, but some may be changed, such as the key. In the recap part of K525, the first theme started on the dominant key.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLh9mgdi4rNezhx8YiGIV8I22ICSuzslja&feature=shared

Books An Outline History Of Western Music, 9E This one can function as an instruction book when you are viewing the history of Western music. Every time period is described in detail, according to several categories. It is a little bit boring if you read it as a historical story book but quite quick for looking up information and finding out what you are curious about.

Music in Western Civilization This one is long and thick, prepared for enthusiasts and scholars. The author involved profound thoughts rather than only basic information in this piece, so you will gain a great deal after reading it.

Since it is long, I recommend that you can go

through the part you are interested in first, and then go through the whole book.

The Cambridge Illustrated Guide of Music Just as its name goes, this is a book filled with beautiful pictures. You can see scripts by famous composes, as well as sophisticated paintings related to the works. Also, this book is highly detailed, and presents every musician with a clear timeline. I am very sure it is worth reading and appreciating.

Resources https://imslp.org/ This website can offer you free high-quality classical music scores. https://www.oxfordmusiconline.com/ You can search for information and knowledge of classical music on this website.

MUSIC—PART 3 RECOMMENDATION OF BOOKS AND RESOURCES

5

PART 3 RECOMMENDATION OF BOOKS AND RESOURCES

Since this time the recommended piece is a classical one, I would like to recommend something that contains information about classical music.

04

MORE THAN A POET

but a life fighter, a soul builder, and a mental supporter

by Lily Zeng

Invictus

BY WILLIAM ERNEST HENLEY Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid.

POETRY SECTION

It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.

There are thousands of distinctive poems in history till now, all of which convey distinctive perspectives and intricate emotions throughout the poems. In the poem Invictus, there are conspicuous but complicated emotions and intentions engaged between the lines, which have plenty of aspects worth deeper consideration and analysis. Invictus, written by English poet William Ernest Henley, aims to evoke the author's intense and invincible will to fight against fate.

However, the intentions Henley wanted to address throughout Invictus can be divided into two sections: never give in to the manipulation of fate, and always be an invincible soul.

To begin with, one of Henley’s intentions is that he will never give in to the manipulation of fate. From the plot of the poem “looking through the darkness of the night, which covered his figure, but what he could see was the whole world dark (Henley line 1-2)” and “aside from the

Figure 1 "Invictus" reflects the author’s steadfast spirit amid personal adversity.

indignation and sorrow that could be felt, the horror was just a cover (Henley line 910)” to portray an entire dim world. The opening lines describe a world shrouded in darkness, where the protagonist gazes upon the encompassing obscurity. Despite the world's relentless blows, he defiantly refuses to bow his head, determined to assert control over his own life. Henley's words convey fearlessness and an unyielding spirit, symbolizing his resistance to being dictated by destiny.

We can infer that when he encounters a difficult situation, he will not be satisfied with his fate and will not shrink back.

These lines show his fearlessness and indestructibility, which further convey that he is unwilling to be manipulated by fate.

In addition, the content of stanza three “however, Henley was fearless and unflinching in the face of future threats and difficulties (Henley line 9-12)” narrates that despite confronting difficulties, he will still show his dauntless appearance. Through

6

BLOSSOM MAGAZINE

5

carefully chosen words like "winced," "unbowed," "master," and "captain," the poet accentuates his indomitable spirits and the aspiration of not being controlled by circumstances. Thus, throughout the poem, Henley expresses his personal struggle while also encouraging others facing adversity to persevere and seize control of their own lives. However, the intentions Henley expressed through the poem are much more complicated than that.

Moreover, another intention the poet wants to convey is always to be in an invincible soul, as the title suggests. For example, the overall tone of Invictus, including both the plot and word choice, exudes an awakened and unconquerable quality. Throughout the poem, Henley chose “unconquerable” “unafraid” and “Invictus” to convey his invincible soul and spirit. To deeper analyze, the prefix un of the words highlights the author's firm will and indestructible belief, further emphasizing his writing intention: to express his unwavering and invincible soul. It is apparent to see that Henley would rather overcome obstacles by himself than put his faith in a nihilistic God. However, his own indomitable will and spirit of not being overthrown by fate are all that Henley wants readers to feel hat’s more, take the last strong stanza’s

POETRY SECTION

content, “his courage in facing these difficulties is like that no matter how narrow the gate of fate and no matter what punishment he may receive, he is the master of his fate and soul (Henley line1216)” as an example. From the lines, the last stanza strongly expressed Henley's determination and firm belief and emphasized more the author's intention: to express his invincible soul. Henley wants to pass on to the readers that we all need to maintain an indestructible soul. No matter how narrow the road is, no matter how many difficulties and obstacles we have to encounter, we should not let ourselves be cowardly. Thus, it’s no doubt that Henley’s intention in this poem is to express his invincible soul and inspire his readers to stay active.

To briefly conclude, Henley’s intentions throughout Invictus are primarily centered around never surrendering to the manipulation of fate and always embodying an invincible soul. By analyzing the word choice, lines, stanzas, descriptions, and the tone of this poem, one can perceive Henley's unconquerable spirit and his refusal to passively accept what fate gives him. Without admitting the fate that he was born with, Henley would never surrender to the destiny that God gave him. It’s appreciable to Henley for conveying his firm determination

7

BLOSSOM MAGAZINE

6

Figure 1 A writer was composing a poem.

Before we start, I would like to introduce the concept of “poetry” to our dear readers. Do you know how many genres of poetry there are in all? Do you know the correct steps to read the poems? If not, you can look at this brief introduction written by me below.

I believe that you can have a different understanding of poetry and may even get more interested in reading or creating poems.

First, What is poetry? Poetry, also called verse, is a form of literature that uses aesthetic and often rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings in addition to, or place of, a prosaic ostensible meaning. Also, a poem is a literary, written

Introduction to poetry

By Poetry Editor-Tina

a poet, using this principle.

According to Wikipedia, there are 13 different genres of poetry. Some of them are famous and well-known, such as narrative poetry, lyric poetry, and epic poetry, and some poetry genres don’t seem to belong to poetry. For instance,

POETRY SECTION

“Language happenings”, termed from the poetics collective OBJECT: PARADISE in 2018, are events that focus less on poetry as a prescriptive literary genre, but more as a descriptive linguistic act and performance, often incorporating broader forms of performance art while poetry is read or created at that moment.

Laura Randazzo, a great classroom teacher, said “In just 15 minutes or so, you can chew on a small nugget of awesomeness and have a complete literary experience.” So now let’s start following the nine-step method!

Step 1: Show no fear. The excitement of discovery is part of the process of understanding a poem. Step 2: Read the title. Then, stop. Based solely on the title, what do you think this poem will be about?

Decide this before you move forward. Step 3: Read the poem all the way through.

Step 4: Annotate. Step 5: Look up the words that you don’t know. Step 6: Identify the narrator. Think about the following questions: Figure out who is speaking in the poem. What do you know about this

8

What is the narrator's tone? How does the narrator impact the message or theme of the poem? Step 7: Notice shifts or changes. Does the narrator use a hinge word, such as "but" or "however," to change the momentum or meaning of the poem? Pay special attention to the idea that comes immediately after one of these hinge or shift words. Step 8: Figure out the structure. What's interesting about the rhyme scheme, the meter of the lines, or the physical layout of the text and use of white space on the page? How might these elements contribute to the poem's overall message or theme? Step 9: Read the poem one more time, aloud if possible.

Before, I was not sure how to correctly read a poem. However, after I followed the steps above, I found it important and useful. I can fully understand and think more about the contents and themes of the poems.

References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poetry Laura Randazzo’s official website: https://laurarandazzo.com

BLOSSOM MAGAZINE

7

Dear readers, let us look at a poem contrasting two subjects - trees and rivers: tree tall, green growing, reaching, shading leaves, branches, water, pebbles flowing, splashing, curving deep, blue river

A special style of poem: Diamante Poem

By Poetry Editor-Tina You might be amazed by the special composition of this poem, and this kind of poem is what I want to share with you today.

A diamante poem (or diamond poem) is a form of poetry that is made of seven lines.

The text forms the shape of a diamond ( ). It was invented in 1969 by an American poet named Iris McClellan Tiedt and has become very popular in schools.

There are two types of diamante poem: Synonym diamantes and Antonym diamantes. Synonym diamantes begins and ends with nouns that mean the same thing. On the other hand, Antonym diamantes starts with one noun but ends with a noun that is the opposite of the one that it started with.

The Diamante Poem should follow the style below:

Maybe you are puzzled by the graph, as it is a little abstract. Here is a clear explanation: Line 1 involves 1 noun, which will be the opposite or antonym of line 7; Line 2 has 2 adjectives describing the noun in line 1; Line 3 has 3 verbs ending in -ing related to line 1; Line 4 includes 2 nouns about line 1 and 2 nouns about line 7; Line 5 has 3 verbs ending in -ing related to line 7; Line 6 invloves 2 adjectives describing the noun in line 7; Line 7 includes 1 noun, which will be the opposite or antonym of line 1.

Now you have already learn about diamante poem basically. It doesn’t have many cumbersome requests, just a few words that comes to your mind as you are pondering and it does not take much time to complete one poem of your own.

Believe in yourself and you can surely do it. Just go and have a try! *The poem at the top of article is selected from Wikipedia.

Photo credit

Malina Sirbu from Pexels

POETRY SECTION

9

This passage mainly describes William Shakespeare, a great poet whom nearly everyone knows. However, this famous poet tends to be mysterious, and he was depicted differently among different people.

William Shakespeare (1564–1616), was an English playwright, poet and actor. He is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's preeminent dramatist. produced most of his known works between 1589 and 1613.

His early plays were primarily comedies and histories and are regarded as some of the best works produced in these genres.

He then wrote mainly tragedies until 1608, among them Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth, all considered to be among the finest works in the English language. In the last phase of his life, he wrote tragicomedies (also known as romances) and collaborated with other playwrights.

A brief introduction to Shakespeare

By Poetry Editor-Tina Indeed, Shakespeare is more known to be a famous playwright. On the other side, he is also a great poet. He is famous for writing the 154 sonnets. He made some change to Petrarch's format so that most of his works consists of iambic pentameter. We will take a closer look at what sonnet is in later articles.

There are some fun facts about Shakespeare that many people are not familiar with. #1: None of the portraits of Shakespeare during his lifetime survived, and the authenticity of the ones we see today is still unknown. #2: Shakespeare was probably fluent in more than 7 languages and knew the cultures around different European countries well, but he may not have left

BLOSSOM MAGAZINE

8

#3: Few people realize that apart from writing his numerous plays and sonnets, Shakespeare was also an actor who performed many of his own plays as well as those of other playwrights. There is evidence that he played the ghost in Hamlet and Adam in As You Like It. *The information introducing William Shakespeare’s background is selected from Wikipedia.

Fun facts about William Shakespeare is selected from https://nosweatshakespeare.com

Analysis about William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18

By Poetry editor Tina

"Sonnet 18" contrasts the subject's eternal beauty with the transient nature of seasons.

POETRY SECTION

SONNET 18 Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate: Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer's lease hath all too short a date: Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines, And often is his gold complexion dimm'd; And every fair from fair sometime declines, By chance or nature's changing course untrimm'd; But thy eternal summer shall not fade Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest; Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade, When in eternal lines to time thou growest: So long as men can breathe or eyes can see, So long lives this and this gives life to thee.

10

(selected from https://www.opensourceshakespeare.org/) Sonnet 18 is a sonnet that is known by many people. There are also many fun facts about this poem that not everyone knows.

First, the words. As we can see, some of the words are familiar to us, but they seem to be different from the ones we see today.

For example, “art” means “are”; “hath” means “have”; “wander’st” means “wanderest” and “ow’st” means “own”.

Looks interesting isn’t it?

Actually, there is some information beyond these basic explanations. Just take the word “ow’st” as another example, according to Wikipedia, the word can carry two meanings, each common at the time: "ownest" and "owest". "Owe", in Shakespeare's day, was sometimes used as a synonym for "own". However, "owest" conveys the idea that beauty is something borrowed from nature—that it must be paid back. In this interpretation, "fair" can be a pun on "fare", or the fare required by nature for life's journey. Other scholars have pointed out that this borrowing and lending theme within the poem is true of both nature and humanity. Summer, for example, is said to have a "lease" with "all too short a date".

By the way, here is something I will talk about in my next article. Here is a foreshadowing. Sonnet 18 is a typical English or Shakespearean sonnet, having 14 lines of iambic pentameter. It also has the characteristic rhyme scheme “ABAB CDCD EFEF GG”. The poem reflects the rhetorical tradition of an Italian or Petrarchan Sonnet.

BLOSSOM MAGAZINE

9

Essay

The use of AI in medical treatment: good or bad?

Chandler In a world where the pulse of technology beats in harmony with the rhythm of our lives, the realm of medicine stands as a crucible of transformation.

Recent headlines have echoed with tales of AI's prowess – from machines diagnosing diseases with unprecedented accuracy to the tantalizing prospect of robotic surgeons. In this landscape, the fusion of human expertise and artificial intelligence emerges as both a herald of progress and a harbinger of caution. Picture a future where machines seamlessly complement the art and science of healing, ushering in an era of unprecedented medical efficiency. Yet, tread carefully, for this promising voyage is still in its infancy, and amidst the dazzling potential, lurk shadows of bias, misunderstanding, and the irreplaceable touch of humanity.

The need for manual supervision and human intervention in AI-driven healthcare arises due to the current immaturity of artificial intelligence technology and potential biases within its training datasets. At present, AI lacks the capability to diagnose through visual recognition, posing the risk of inaccurate results. This limitation underscores the critical role of human oversight for safety. An essay in JAMA (Eaneff, 2020) highlights instances where AI algorithms produced inaccurate and biased results, leading to incorrect diagnoses and misguided treatment recommendations, despite being trained on extensive datasets. The sheer volume of data may erode AI's ability to provide precise treatments

BLOSSOM

tailored to individual cases, potentially exposing patients to incorrect treatments and unnecessary risks.

Additionally, research by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (Obermeyer, 2019) reveals AI's potential to perpetuate healthcare disparities, favoring patients from higher socioeconomic backgrounds and exhibiting racial biases. These biases often stem from inherent biases in training data, such as race and gender. Consequently, human supervision remains paramount to ensure fair and accurate medical treatment in the AI era.

Furthermore, AI's limitations become evident in its ability to engage with the human aspect of healthcare.

Healthcare is not solely the application of medical knowledge; it equally demands empathy and compassion, qualities that AI currently struggles to embody. A notable incident on April 21, 2023, in a Chinese hospital vividly illustrates this point when an AI robot, attempting to lighten the mood by offering a joke to a distressed mother with a seriously ill son, faced a violent reaction.

This incident highlights AI's inability to empathize with patients' emotional states and provide appropriate emotional support. Conversely, research from Stanford University (Blease et al., 2020) emphasizes that patients often express a strong preference for human interactions, especially in delicate healthcare scenarios like end-of-life care or mental health support. Human healthcare providers possess a unique ability to convey empathy and offer solace to patients in distress. In summary, while AI has its merits, particularly in diagnostics and data analysis, it is ill-suited to fully replace the human element in healthcare, which plays an irreplaceable role in addressing patients' emotional needs.

While AI's current quirks might give us pause, we can't help but marvel at its budding genius in the medical realm. Picture this: a machine, trained by the brilliant minds at Stanford, that can spot skin cancer with the eagle-eyed precision of a top-tier dermatologist. In fact, this isn't some sci-fi dream; AI systems have already achieved a staggering 94% accuracy rate in detecting skin anomalies (Esteva, 2017). It's tantalizing to imagine a future where our friendly neighborhood doctor has an AI sidekick, or even where AI takes the lead in certain medical procedures. The promise? A healthcare revolution that's faster, more efficient, and perhaps a tad bit futuristic.

But before we roll out the red carpet for our AI overlords, let's pump the brakes. Today's AI, with all

11

Essay its glitz and glamour, still has its fair share of growing pains. It might crunch numbers like a pro, but when it comes to the human touch, it's still in the toddler phase.

BLOSSOM

This article is about the application of AI in the field of medicine, illustrating the prospects and related discussions regarding AI's use in healthcare. In the 21st century, as AI rapidly develops, it has been a subject of controversy due to the

Can it empathize with a patient's fears or understand the nuances of human emotion? Not quite. Yet, it's crucial to remember: every innovation has its teething troubles. As we stand on the cusp of this AI-driven medical frontier, let's embrace its potential, warts and all, while eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this riveting saga.

Owens, Kellie. "For Ethical Use of AI in Medicine, Don't Overlook Maintenance and Repair." Artificial Intelligence, Hastings Bioethics Forum, 9 May 2023, https://www.thehastingscenter.org/for-ethicaluse-of-ai-in-medicine-dont-overlook- maintenanceand-repair/.

Merz, Jon F. "ChatGPT Just Makes Stuff Up: A Conversation on a Controversial Topic." Artificial Intelligence, Hastings Bioethics Forum, 4 Apr. 2023, https://www.thehastingscenter.org/chatgptjust-makes-stuff-up-a-conversation-on-acontroversial-topic/.

Eaneff, Stephanie, et al. "The Case for Algorithmic Stewardship for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Technologies." JAMA, vol. 324, no. 14, 2020, pp. 1397-1398. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.9371.

absence of ethical discussions. Are we merely creating another useful tool, akin to primitive humans crafting stone tools, or are we, like God on the sixth day of creation, fashioning a new "being" in our image? These questions become even more contradictory in the sensitive realm of medicine, as healthcare concerns our life, from birth to aging and death.

Being a doctor has always been a special profession, especially in modern society, where a significant portion of people is born in hospitals and may eventually pass away in hospital beds.

Access to quality healthcare services is crucial for them. In China, the widely concerned attack on ophthalmologist Tao Yong highlighted the tense doctor-patient relationship, and recent scandals involving bribery by chief doctors in major hospitals have raised doubts about the professional ethics of doctors. At this juncture, we can't help but ask: Can AI competently fulfill the role of a doctor, especially in such an immensely contentious

position? And

if AI

makes

a

misdiagnosis, who will be held accountable?

AI itself lacks knowledge and morality; everything about it originates from humans, reflecting human technological levels

Review from Ryan Jiang:

and ethical perspectives. AI is not infallible, so if an AI doctor makes an incorrect diagnosis, should the responsibility fall on the doctors who did not participate in the diagnostic process, or

should it the be borne byviewpoint the tech companies thehumans AI? should it be borne by the tech companies that developed the AI? Therefore, author's is that we that mustdeveloped not replace with AI in the role of doctors entirely. Instead, AI should serve as a tool to assist doctors in diagnosis and treatment. It should work like a surgical instrument extending the capabilities of a doctor's hands. This model enhances the efficiency of doctors while ensuring their responsibility, safeguarding the rights of patients.

However, as the article mentions, a doctor's responsibilities go beyond diagnosis and treatment; they also include humanitarian care and emotional support. Many people place their loved ones in the ICU solely to extend their lives by a few days, forgetting the immense suffering patients endure in the ICU. The recent rise of end-of-life care as a treatment approach exemplifies the expansion of humanism in the medical field. Can emotionless AI provide patients with adequate emotional support and attend to their psychological well-being during treatment? Despite the potential for AI to achieve this goal with the support of large language models, the author remains skeptical overall. Human doctors still possess an irreplaceable level of closeness with patients that AI cannot match.

Nevertheless, the author believes AI will bring about transformation and progress in the healthcare industry. With the presence of AI as an efficient tool, medical resources can be further distributed throughout society, truly benefiting the health and lives of everyone.

Currently, a significant portion of medical resources is concentrated in large cities, but AI can help modernize healthcare in rural areas and small towns, promoting social fairness and justice.

12

Essay

An Intimate Odyssey through Love and War: The Song of Achilles Catherine Yu Step into the ancient world of Greek mythology and prepare to be captivated by Madeline Miller's enchanting tale, The Song of Achilles. As I turned the pages of this book, I found myself completely immersed in a world where gods and mortals intertwine, where love and war collide, and where destiny weaves its intricate tapestry. The legendary Trojan War forms the core of this captivating narrative. A pivotal event in Greek mythology, the Trojan War was sparked by the abduction of Helen, the queen of Sparta, by Paris of Troy. This audacious act set in motion a decade-long siege of Troy by the Greeks, leading to its fateful downfall. It was in this tumultuous backdrop that the story of Achilles, the greatest of Greek warriors, unfolded, his fate entwined with the destiny of Troy itself.

BLOSSOM

Upon my initial reading of The Song of Achilles, though, I found myself slightly puzzled by the seemingly sudden development of Achilles and Patroclus' relationship. It appeared to unfold without much explanation, leaving me with lingering questions. However, as I embarked on a second reading, I approached the book with a newfound appreciation, savoring it like a leisurely sip of tea rather than rushing to unravel its plot. In doing so, my previous uncertainties gradually dissolved. Madeline Miller's writing style is deceptively concise, with every sentence and word holding deeper meaning. Her prose may appear sparse at first glance, but upon closer examination, one discovers a wealth of information, hidden within the lines, within seemingly insignificant details, and within the vast expanse of the reader's own imagination.

Look, for example, at this description of Patroclus walking his way to his father at a young age at the start of chapter two:

"I was summoned to the king. I remember hating this, the long walk up the endless throne room. At the front I knelt on stone.

In the myth, Achilles, the protagonist, is destined to emerge as the most formidable warrior of his time.

However, prior to that, he is just a boy growing up in Phthia with his devoted companion Patroclus by his side. They are eventually sent to the mountains for rigorous training, but their peaceful existence is disrupted when Helen of Troy is abducted, plunging them into the throes of war. Achilles finds himself confronted with a poignant dilemma: embrace everlasting glory or settle for a life of mediocrity. Yet, the pursuit of greatness exacts a toll that both Achilles and Patroclus must ultimately bear.

At the heart of The Song of Achilles lies the extraordinary bond between Achilles, the greatest warrior of his generation, and his steadfast companion, Patroclus. Miller delicately weaves their relationship, gradually building a connection that transcends friendship and blossoms into a love so profound and tender that it leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart. As Achilles and Patroclus navigate the trials of war and the weight of their destinies, their love becomes a beacon of light in a world overshadowed by darkness. It is a love that defies conventions and expectations, and one that will stay with you long after 13 you turn the final page.

Some kings chose to have rugs there for the knees of messengers who had long news to tell. My father preferred not to."

In those few words, a vivid image emerges of an unfamiliar realm, a time where messengers knelt and cushions were scarce. It speaks of a young boy, overwhelmed and powerless in the face of the vastness of the adult world. It reveals a harsh father, a figure represented by cold stone and the discomfort of sore knees. Together, these elements paint a poignant picture of a distant land and era, where every detail carries deeper meaning: a world where hierarchy, duty, and the weight of expectations shape the lives of those within it. Miller's ability to convey so much with so little is truly remarkable. Throughout the book, she effortlessly crafts vivid imagery, painting countless scenes with just a handful of carefully chosen words. Moreover, she seamlessly weaves in diverse allusions, subtly referencing other works without losing focus on the essential mechanics of each scene.

Essay The choice of Patroclus as the narrator in The Song of Achilles adds a layer of brilliance and uniqueness to the storytelling. As the story unfolds, we witness Patroclus' transformation from a shy and unassuming young man to a steadfast and courageous companion to Achilles. Through his narration, we observe the evolution of his confidence, as he finds his own voice and purpose amidst the tumultuous world of gods and heroes. Patroclus' growth is depicted with sensitivity and authenticity, as he grapples with his own insecurities, navigates the complexities of love and loyalty, and ultimately embraces his role as a teadfast support to Achilles. This narrative approach not only humanizes Patroclus, an often overshadowed figure, but also serves as a captivating contrast to Achilles' mythic and awe-inspiring nature.

As I was reading other people’s opinions on this book, I came across a New York Time’s review, complaining that it seemed like a fast-food version of the Iliad. I find this criticism slightly unfair, as I believe the intention of Miller was never to retell the story of the Trojan War or to make a contemporary version of the Iliad. Her mission was far more audacious—to peel back the layers of mythical glory and reveal the vulnerable mortal side of our dear demigod, Achilles. Therefore, whether you find it fast-food or fine dining, a masterpiece or a mere trinket, the beauty (or lack thereof) lies in the eye of the reader. It's a feast for thought, my friends, and the flavors are yours to savor on your own delightful journey through the pages.

14

BLOSSOM

Essay Zora Neale Hurston's literary works are firmly rooted in the African American culture, and she actively participates in the experiences of Black communities in the Southern part of the United States. By using an ethnographic approach, she preserves the oral traditions, folktales, and cultural practices of Africa.

Recognizing the importance of storytelling and folklore in passing down cultural knowledge across generations, Hurston makes a noteworthy contribution to the preservation of African American heritage. She prioritizes the voices and experiences of African Americans, who are often marginalized or misrepresented in mainstream historical accounts, to ensure that their contributions are not forgotten. This act of preserving cultural heritage serves as a powerful resistance against the erasure of AfricanAmerican influence in American society.

Furthermore, Hurston highlights the resilience and richness of African American heritage by exploring African American folklore, such as the Br'er Rabbit and Br'er Fox stories, which have deep roots in African traditions and were passed down through generations. Through the preservation of African oral traditions, Hurston emphasizes the crucial role of ethnicity and race in shaping cultural identity.

To further highlight the cultural identity, Hurston also describes various cultural celebrations and festivals, such as the John Canoe Festival, which have their origins in African cultural practices. These events showcase the continuity of African traditions within the African-American community and serve as expressions of cultural pride and identity.

Additionally, within the African-American communities she studies, Hurston demonstrates a keen awareness of class distinctions. That is to say, she delves into the lives of various individuals and families, shedding light on the economic challenges and social hierarchies they face. Specifically, the book exposes the disparities between the wealthy and the poor, emphasizing how class impacts access to resources and opportunities. For example, the book tells the story of "John," a character who stands out from his working-class community due to his wealth and education. John is portrayed as striving to distance himself from his African-American heritage in order to gain social acceptance among white elites.

As a result, it is palpable that the story explores the complexities of social mobility and the tensions that arise between individuals who move up the social ladder and those who remain less fortunate.

15

BLOSSOM

"Mules and Men: A Sociological Analysis” Hazel Chen Moreover, apart from the hierarchy and class distinctions, in the chapter titled "African and His American Kinfolk," Hurston also gains insight into the intricacies of identity and class within African-American communities. She examines how the experiences of African Americans vary depending on factors such as location, education, and economic status. By comparing the lives of African Americans in Eatonville, Florida (a predominantly Black town), with those in New Orleans, Louisiana, Hurston sheds light on the diverse realities and social dynamics within the broader African-American population.

In addition, language also takes on a crucial role in conveying Hurston’s certain notions. In "Mules and Men" , for instance, language takes on a crucial role is of great essence as Hurston portrays the dialects, idioms, and storytelling customs of the various communities she encounters. She carefully observes the unique linguistic expressions that define African-American speech in the Southern region. By acknowledging and appreciating these linguistic subtleties, Hurston confronts the prevailing narratives that have historically excluded African-American vernacular.

To be more specific, from the language aspect, Zora Neale Hurston's "Mules and Men" further delves into the speech differences between men and women in African-American communities she studied while conducting ethnographic research in the American South. She noticed that dialects and linguistic expressions often reflect the social roles and positions of men and women within the community. For instance, men and women use different linguistic expressions in the communities she visited. Men may use slang terms or colloquialisms to assert their masculinity or show solidarity with their male peers. Similarly, women may use specific linguistic features to signal their femininity and identity as women.

Essay In her book, to further engaging readers into the cultural setting using language, Hurston accurately portrays African American Vernacular English (AAVE), which is also called Black English or Ebonics. She writes the dialogue phonetically to maintain the genuineness of the spoken language. For example, in the story "The Mean Old Bishop and the Big Buck," Hurston writes: "Ole Brer Fox, he mighty proud uh hisself 'cause he wuz ridin' on a big fine hoss."

This phonetic representation enables readers to perceive the distinct cadence and rhythm of AAVE and fully engage in the cultural background.

Moving on, in "Mules and Men," Hurston delves into also digs into the concept of agency and its relationship with the structural limitations faced

by African-American communities. She depicts how individuals can exercise their own power and make choices while recognizing the impact of systemic forces that restrict their agency. Hurston highlights the agency of individuals within African-American communities who actively preserve and share their cultural heritage through storytelling and folklore. By participating in these traditions, individuals contribute to the continuity of their cultural identity and resist the erasure of their history. The decision to pass down oral traditions reflects their active agency in shaping the narrative of their community.

For example: in the story "How Ballhead Got So Flat," the character Ballhead exercises his agency by challenging the status quo and questioning the actions of the powerful preacher, Daddy Jim. Ballhead's refusal to conform to traditional norms leads to a humorous and thought-provoking exchange that challenges the authority of the preacher.

Overall, Hurston acknowledges that individuals have agency, but she also recognizes the limitations imposed by systemic oppression and racism. The social and historical contexts in which African Americans live often shape their lives and opportunities, impacting the scope of their agency. The historical legacies of slavery, segregation, and discrimination have profound and lasting effects on African-American communities, restricting their access to resources, education, and socioeconomic mobility.

16

BLOSSOM

Essay

Voices of the Marginalized: Exploring South Korean Low-class Theme Films Wenxi Hu

BLOSSOM lower-class individuals are scarce, with most of them concentrated in the realm of documentary filmmaking. Therefore, in this article, South Korean films with themes of the lower class have a broader definition, referring to films created by South Korean intellectual elites, focusing on societal issues, and depicting the lives and experiences of lower-class individuals as protagonists.

(2) Analysis of the Prevalence of South Korean Films with Representation of the Lower Class The prevalence of South Korean films with themes of the lower class on the international stage is primarily due to the sharp social contradictions and internal policy initiatives within South Korea.

First, the escalating social conflicts and struggles have provided abundant creative material for South Korean cinema. Statistics show that in 1998, South Korea's unemployment rate reached 8%, with nearly two million people unemployed. The high unemployment rate led to a downward flow of the new middle class, resulting in the continuous expansion of the lower class and a gradual shift in the social structure from an "olive-shaped" to an "hourglass-shaped" pattern. Consequently, many lower-class individuals in South Korea find themselves marginalized as they lack the means to challenge the upper echelons of society. In light of this situation, South Korean directors have based their artistic creations on real cases or social focus points to expose class contradictions.

Second, South Korea's relatively flexible film laws and relatively lenient cultural regulations have provided a conducive environment for the development of films with themes of the lower class. The policy changes have created a more lenient creative environment for films with themes of the lower class in South Korea.

After the 1997 Asian financial crisis, South Korea began accelerating its cultural exports, with different administrations adopting various strategies to develop the film industry. With government backing, South Korea produced over twenty films addressing issues related to the lower strata of society. These Korean films have achieved remarkable recognition by shedding light on history, depicting harsh social reality, and emphasizing hardship. In this essay, I will analyze South Korean low-class theme films by exploring their portrayal of the lower class, their prevalence on the international stage, and contemporary representations. I will also investigate struggles by marginalized individuals in physical, social, and mental spaces, highlighting the films' impact on specific social issues and cultural discourse.

1. Portrayals of the Lower Class in South Korean Cinema In the history of world cinema, whether it's Italy's Neorealism or China's Left-Wing Cinema, the allure of realism remains timeless. Recently, South Korean cinema's portrayal of the lower class has once again led people to explore the development and vitality of realism in filmmaking.

(3) Contemporary Representations of the Lower Class Looking back at South Korean films with themes of the lower class since the new century, it becomes apparent that most of the protagonists find themselves in economic distress and lack political agency, leading them to engage in informal occupations. Their identities often involve being homeless, thieves, disabled individuals, etc., and their activities are

(1) Conceptual Analysis of "Films with Themes of the Lower Class" Generally speaking, films with themes of the lower class involve the active participation of lower-class individuals in self-expression through cinema.

However, in reality, due to various constraints such as funding and technology, films truly created by

17

Essay

primarily concentrated in urban areas. City life is both where social resources are most concentrated and where social class competition is most fierce. The marginalized individual represents an alienated force within the city; their identity is stripped by the urban environment, they feel disconnected from rural life, and when facing the modern city, they inevitably experience resistance, caution, hesitation, and helplessness.

2. The Struggles of Marginalized Individuals in Physical, Social, and Mental Spaces (3) Symbolic Metaphors in Physical Spaces Physical spaces in films are objectively present through human sensory perception and measurement.

From the perspective of residential sociology, differences in housing usage become indicators of social segregation, class segregation, racial segregation, and wealth disparity. South Korean films of the lower class often use narrow streets and basements as symbolic metaphors for class disparities.

Basements are cultural symbol that represents the squeezed living space of marginalized individuals.

Max Weber proposed the notion of the "housing class," where most urban residents desire to live in quiet, spacious areas away from trouble. However, limited urban resources lead to the lower class often residing in basements. In dense physical spaces, basements reflect the feelings of the lower-class individuals wandering on the edge of troubled families and a class-based society. For example, in the film Parasite (2019), the Kim family lives in a halfbasement dwelling with a toilet placed at the highest point of the room sharply contrasting with the cockroach-like people, symbolizing a sense of inversion and division. For instance, the Kim family infiltrates the wealthy Park family's mansion in the film Parasite (2019). Through their struggles, they attempt to break free from the constraints of physical space and seek new identities and footholds.

18

BLOSSOM

(1) Social Space: Inner and Outer Perspectives on Class Struggle According to Henri Lefebvre in "The Production of Space," social space is described as a product of society, a concept that aligns with Michel Foucault's perspective. During the process of constructing social space, individuals are subjected to a series of power disciplines, including order, regulation, and guidance.

This leads to the mechanization and repetition of the physical structures of marginalized groups, depriving them of complete liberation. The courtroom provides arenas for marginalized individuals’ struggles from internal and external perspectives.

The courtroom was originally a social space that upheld fairness and justice, serving as the baseline for maintaining social order. However, with the acceleration of urbanization, the ruling class often exploits institutionalized forms like the legal system to expand their existing advantages, forcing the disadvantaged groups to submit to the mainstream will. In Norigae (2013), although the courtroom possesses evidence of the backstage "devil," the outcome of the trial is almost not guilty. When the lower-class people seek to break free from their puppet status and destiny, they realize that they have long been victims of capitalist courts, leading them to demand a new social order.

(2) Mental Space: Self-Search for Identity The first way is to achieve individual identity under physical decay. In South Korean films with themes of the lower class, the characters' fragmented bodies cut off their communication with society. In the film Parasite (2019), the Kim

Essay

BLOSSOM

South Korea's political landscape is unique, with a high level of citizen engagement and involvement in political affairs. However, beneath the surface of "democracy's fig leaf," the country's presidents have struggled to implement effective checks and balances, leading to the omnipotence of independent prosecutors and pervasive high-level corruption. The chaebol economic system exacerbates social inequality, with the top 10% holding 46.5% of the wealth while the bottom 50% only accounts for 10% of the total income, resulting in a 14-fold income gap.

In such a context, fundamental changes in the social structure become challenging, and films can only reflect reality without offering lasting solutions to the struggles the lower class faces.

In conclusion, South Korean films focusing on the lower class have made an impact in the short term by expressing sharp social issues and gaining international awareness through awards, offering a brief boost in public opinion and an opportunity for cultural discourse on a global scale. South Korea has ingeniously utilized the universally understood political concept of class to facilitate the interpretation and dissemination of its own culture, leading to more effective cultural output compared to the earlier cultural discount-induced ineffectiveness—a display of wisdom and progress.

family resorts to forging academic records and setting traps to earn money. These abnormal behaviors show their spiritual isolation and difficulty in communicating with the world, symbolizing their struggle against class conflicts through their fragmented bodies.

The second way is to achieve group identity through spiritual rebirth. Group identity "derives from a multiple social construction of people playing various roles in society." The lower-class individuals seek recognition from mainstream society and thus must play certain roles in social life. South Korean filmmakers often vent dissatisfaction through "hatred" and confront class conflicts with revengeful violence.

3.Real Significance and Future Prospects Since the beginning of the new century, South Korean films portraying the lower class have garnered international attention and received numerous prestigious awards, showcasing their unique approach to depicting the struggles of the underprivileged. Nevertheless, we should discuss the real significance and social effects of films with lower-class themes.

Through their films, South Korean provide an outlet for spiritual redemption for the lower class and amplify social issues to raise public awareness.

Films like Silenced (2011), Hope (2013), and My First Client (2019) address child abuse and sexual crimes, leading to the passing of the "Sexual Violence Prevention Amendment" in South Korea.

Similarly, The Attorney (2013), Memories of Murder (2003), and Murder in Itaewon (2009) shed light on the limitations of the existing legal system, eventually prompting changes in the country's statute of limitations. While these films have made an impact on specific social issues in the short term, the fundamental solution to the struggles faced by the lower class requires addressing the intersection of "art and politics."

Bibliography [1] Gramsci, A., Buttigieg, J. A., & Callari, A. (2011). Prison notebooks. Columbia University Press.

[2] MARX, K. (2014). Das Kapital. CREATESPACE. [3] Cho, Y. (2008). The national crisis and DE/reconstructing nationalism in South Korea during the IMF intervention. Inter-Asia Cultural Studies, 9(1), 82–96. https://doi.org/10.1080/14649370701789666 [4] Ha, S.-K., & Lee, S.-W. (2001). IMF and the crisis of the marginalized urban sector in Korea. Journal of Contemporary Asia, 31(2), 196–213. https://doi.org/10.1080/00472330180000121 [5] Yamming, B. (2001). The Politics of Postmodernity and Geography. Shanghai: Shanghai Education Publishing House, 4.

[6] Max Weber, Economy and Society: An Outline of Interpretive Sociology, edited by Guenther Roth and Claus Wittich (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1978), 153.

[7] Henri Lefebvre, The Production of Space (Oxford: Blackwell, 1991), 23.

19

Essay

After the powerful surge of the Euromaidan movement, which witnessed countless Ukrainians gathering in Kyiv's Independence Square advocating for closer ties with the West and a halt to corruption, a sudden morning in April 2014 brought an unusual calm to Sloviansk, a city in Donetsk. The typically vibrant streets were now quiet. The locals saw armored vehicles, under the command of the imposing Igor Girkin, a past KGB official, strategically securing crucial parts of the city. The Donetsk airport, once a beacon of Ukrainian advancement, turned into the focal point of an intense 242-day battle.

Surprisingly, the urban hubs of Donetsk and Luhansk proclaimed the creation of 'people's republics,' territories desiring independence from Ukraine. This decision, suspected to be driven by Russian agents, signified a fresh period of unrest for these cities, overshadowing their deep-rooted cultural legacies.

While Ukraine pursued its path towards the West, adopting changes and forming bonds with European nations, its relationship with Moscow grew strained.

By 2022, when Russia launched its assault on Kyiv, President Putin's audacious assertion of seizing Kyiv in a matter of days garnered international attention.

Yet, in the face of these challenges, Ukraine remains steadfast. Only a fraction, 17 percent, of its land is under Russian dominance, contrasting sharply with the swift takeover of the Donbas area by Russian troops.

This article aims to delve into the historical context to understand why only the Donbas portion of the Pro-Russian eastern Ukraine succumbed to Russian control.

Eastern Ukraine: From Russian Empire to Soviet Era - A Historical Overview From its time under the Russian Empire to its transformative phase during the Soviet Union, Eastern Ukraine has undergone significant changes that have crafted its unique identity.

The notion of colonization is a prominent thread woven through the history of Eastern Ukraine. It's not just about territorial annexation but a multifaceted endeavor where a prevailing power embeds its culture, principles, and past onto another society. The renowned academic, Edward Said, characterized colonization as a 'sophisticated dominant process.' In relation to Eastern Ukraine, this translated to the cultural, economic, and political influence exerted by both the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union.

20

BLOSSOM

The onset of the industrial revolution was a pivotal moment for Eastern Ukraine. Fueled by foreign capital, the region experienced swift development. Visionaries like the British magnate Charles Gascoigne, who founded an ironworks in Luhansk in 1795, and the Welsh businessman John James Hughes, with his metallurgical endeavors, laid the foundation for the region's industrial rise. The Donbas area, rich in coal and iron ore, became a powerhouse of industry.

By the early 20th century, Eastern Ukraine had evolved from its farming origins to become an industrial hub. This shift was propelled by foreign capital, with overseas stakeholders having a central role in shaping Ukraine's industrial scene.

However, the story took a new direction with the rise of the Soviet Union. This period introduced socio-political and economic reforms that further sculpted Eastern Ukraine. The theme of colonization continued, but with a different flavor. The USSR's interest in the region's industrial capabilities led to a transition from foreign-backed ventures to state-led industrial projects. Specifically, the Donbas area stood out as a symbol of Soviet industrial aspirations.

But this rapid advancement came with its set of challenges. The region's strong dependence on government-run businesses made it vulnerable to economic shifts and policy alterations.

Furthermore, the industrial connections between the Donbas and Russia grew stronger, laying the groundwork for ensuing geopolitical intricacies.

Power PlayUnveiling the Role of Oligarchs in the Tragedy of Donbas A New Perspective on Russia-Ukraine Conflict Yawen Xie

Essay The Dance of Power: Oligarchs, Kuchma, and Yanukovych in Ukraine's Political Landscape Within the complex narrative of Ukraine's political history, certain figures like the oligarchs, Leonid Kuchma, and Viktor Yanukovych stand out, both for their prominence and the controversies surrounding them. These powerful individuals, possessing significant economic and political clout, have been instrumental in directing Ukraine's path, particularly in the period following the Soviet Union's dissolution.

But what defines these oligarchs, and how did they ascend to such heights? The initial years after Ukraine's independence provide insights into the genesis of the oligarchic structure. As Ukraine navigated its newfound sovereignty, doors opened for privatization. Savvy entrepreneurs, recognizing the potential for gains and dominance, capitalized on these openings, accumulating enormous wealth and sway. Personalities like Yuhym Zviahilsky and Pavlo Lazarenko, known for their contentious activities, became symbols of this period of swift socioeconomic transformation.

Yet, their influence wasn't restricted to mere wealth generation. The oligarchs, leveraging their extensive connections, began to shape governmental actions, ensuring the formulation of policies that safeguarded their stakes. Their influence permeated various sectors, from privatization bids to the energy market.

Leonid Kuchma's presidency further entrenched this evolving dynamic. By amassing executive authority, Kuchma's tenure witnessed the entrenchment of the oligarchic framework. The boundaries separating personal ties, favoritism, and formal governmental processes became increasingly indistinct, leading to the emergence of a new form of governance marked by patronage.

Then came Viktor Yanukovych. His leadership added a fresh dimension to Ukraine's political saga. Often perceived as a figurehead for the oligarchs, Yanukovych's rule was marked by power centralization and a pronounced inclination towards Russia. His intimate associations with individuals like Rinat Akhmetov, the wealthiest person in Ukraine, further emphasized the oligarchic stranglehold on Ukrainian politics.

Yet, Yanukovych's leadership wasn't devoid of disputes.

BLOSSOM His choice to forgo the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement in preference for tighter Russian relations ignited the Euromaidan demonstrations, culminating in his eventual removal from power.

Rinat Akhmetov's substantial economic dominion, especially in the coal and steel industries of the Donbas region, positioned him as a formidable player, not just in business but also in the political arena. The period following Euromaidan showcased Akhmetov's strategic juggling act as he attempted to appease both Kyiv and Moscow to safeguard his assets. Nonetheless, this balancing act had its shortcomings, resulting in a weakened control over Donetsk and its subsequent capture by pro-Russian factions, a topic to be explored further in the subsequent section.

The Chess Game of Ukrainian Oligarchs in a Post-Euromaidan World In the cold embrace of 2013, Kyiv, the heartbeat of Ukraine, was alive with the fervor of the Euromaidan movement. Multitudes converged, bound by a collective vision: a Ukraine more aligned with the European Union. However, President Viktor Yanukovych harbored different aspirations. His inclination towards Russia ignited a wave of dissent, culminating in his removal from office in 2014. This marked the onset of a multifaceted political saga that would redefine Ukraine's destiny.

Visualize Ukraine as an expansive chessboard.

Each district, a distinct piece with its unique significance and tactics. In this vast strategic play, Donetsk and Luhansk emerged prominently, not merely due to their strategic value but because of the powerful oligarchs they housed: Rinat Akhmetov and Oleksandr Yefremov.

Akhmetov, with his extensive resources and sprawling business network in Donetsk, attempted a delicate balancing act. On one end was Kyiv's central administration, and on the other, the formidable presence of Russia. He hoped to leverage the turmoil, courting both factions for his benefit. However, the situation proved more convoluted than he had foreseen. The rise of Russian-supported insurgents signaled a weakening of Akhmetov's once indomitable hold over Donetsk.

21

Essay Concurrently, in Luhansk, Yefremov pursued a distinct strategy. He unabashedly showcased his proRussian sentiments, bankrolling demonstrations and advocating for Luhansk's secession from Ukraine.

Yet, in the volatile realm of politics, tides shift rapidly. Yefremov's aspirations of orchestrating Luhansk's fate disintegrated amidst escalating disorder. Diverse groups, each with distinct objectives, surfaced, indicating Yefremov's diminishing clout.

As clarity emerged from the chaos, it was evident that eastern Ukraine's political terrain had experienced a monumental transformation. The oligarchs, once the masterminds, found themselves outmaneuvered.

Akhmetov's precarious navigation between Kyiv and Moscow faltered, while Yefremov's visions of a proRussian Luhansk evaporated. The unfolding events in the aftermath of Euromaidan underscore the capricious essence of politics, especially when external entities join the mix.

In the intricate mosaic of Ukrainian political dynamics, the strategies employed by Akhmetov and Yefremov are emblematic of daring plays on the vast chessboard that is the Donbas region. Their endeavors, deeply connected with the aspirations of regional oligarchs and the omnipresent influence of foreign powers, underscore the fragile equilibrium of authority and strategy in an area traditionally at the heart of geopolitical shifts. As the Donbas saga continues, their narratives serve as a compelling testament to the intricacies and unpredictabilities inherent in political navigation in a nation poised at historical junctures.

22

BLOSSOM

Journalism

Both sides of the canal: A report on the dyeing industry in Keqiao, Shaoxing Keqiao, where China’s biggest cloth dyeing industry clusters lies, is divided into two pieces by the Eastern Zhejiang Canal. On the east bank, more than 30 factories consume more than 100’000 tons of cloth per month; on the west bank, their administration offices cosume more than 150 packs of cigarette per day.

East Bank

Workers chatting in during a shift break next to dye fluation control gates

“Now, on the billboard, they say that everyone’s life ‘smells sweet’ with the future ‘shining upon them. ’ In Keqiao, it’s sour. Everyone and everything smells sour. I see no shining future in this dark vat.”

The only thing I felt walking into the elutriation room was dizziness from the repetitive noises of drums flapping on their 3-meter stands and rusty wheels of iron carts battling the bumpy floor. It seemed this was the origin of that sour smell all along the town’s roads. Even with a mask on, the pain in my nostrils was insufferable. The workers hustled by without any masks or uniforms, looking emptily into nowhere. The only light comes from the glittering ceiling spotlights 4 meters above the ground, windows all sealed up by yellowish dust. In the grey workshop contaminated by green, sticky blurs all over, workers curled up in corners accompanied by rats and a few barking dogs, blinding their own views with vape from cheap

23

BLOSSOM

Tianyi Shen

yunyan cigarettes. The vape mixed with the Shaoxing moist that once nurtured their ancestors, national elites in politics and literature two centuries ago. “The moist once tasted sweet, perhaps,” Mr. S was a bit nostalgic, “but it’s nothing more than sour now.” He then lit up a cigarette himself.

Mr. S had more complex feelings, though. Having stayed in the garment industry as an international trade agent for two decades and then starting his own national business in 2018, he has been dealing with Keqiao dyeing factories for over 30 years. “So apparently, the working environment has improved,” he smiled bitterly, “And it’s only necessary when policies have required so. Cost in production flows downstream, and trading agencies are the ones who pay.” Looking at the workers, Mr. S could not hide his worries in the eyes. They were diverse in age, slightly inclining to female. From local boys with tattoos and the 2000s dyed blonde hair and high school drop-outs to middle-aged men.

However, the factory was ‘never so lifeless’, according to the production manager Mr. Z. “The pandemic nearly wiped out our struggling breaths.” As life expenditures rocketed and clothes sales went down both nationally and internationally, the dyeing companies had to make harsh sacrifices. “It drove out our core competitiveness: the skilled workers who bear low and unstable salaries. During the quarantine, they need more reliable and stable income, so either by choice or being forced, we have lost most of them.” Since 2020, with workers continually fleeing to newer and seemingly more promising opportunities, nearly every factory along the East Zhejiang Canal has been facing a dilemma: either maintaining fewer workers with affordable salaries or expanding the workforce with short-term lowpay deals. Most managers chose the first one, including Mr. Z. He wrote a very attractive recruitment poster offering a “doubled monthly salary compared to average Meituan deliverers.”

Journalism

BLOSSOM

In southeast China, deliverers are widely considered a way out for young people starting off their career from the bottom of society. However, the poster could not even be printed on bigger scales than 1*1.5 m. “Go down the river and see yourself: we offer the most generous salaries.”

Workers themselves hold quite diverse views upon the future of their careers, and the stereotype of the connection of transcendence with age seemed to be reversed here. Young people see straight through the dirt and sourness in the vats, and some of them choose to close their eyes. “We basically exchange future for some satisfaction. The periodic high salary won’t last, not until the market bounces back.” Elutriation room Overseer Ms. D, 23, was hired by Mr. Z merely in the spring of 2023. Her position was already recorded as a ‘middle-stage team leader’ by the accountant. “I assumed that the higher your position is, the higher the salary. It turned out a trap.” Ms. D took off her helmet and joined her co-workers for lunch. It was nothing much more than a decade ago, only lacking some taste of noise when the company’s canteen was full by then.

“I know most people my age, especially boys, would have avoided this trap and went for adventures in the big city.” For the local youth, it’s not always because attractive salaries or working conditions, as they are aware how things are from the internet. “We just want to taste the air without the sourness.”

Ms. D’s parents were both workers for dyeing companies, wearing the same uniform as she is now in. “Last year, my dad retired from the company’s Vice Safety Supervisor---a position exactly equal in rank and salary as I now hold. It was thirty years of experience and two scars on the back left by the rusty rolling machine.” Ironically, when we visited, the very machine was still not properly fixed. Mr. H, the 56year-old manager who replaced Ms. D’s father last year, refused to respond directly, but implied some troubles faced by the factory in general.

Everyone had noticed the loss of new blood. Around the roaring steel arms and buzzling motors, smiles are extracted from even the few faces with bits of youthful protein. “Nothing was the same since those continual departures of the best operators. You have no idea: they stay behind the yarn and sit and chat and work just like the rest of us, but they have triple efficiency than average.” Mr. H was smiling behind his glasses memorializing his old colleagues, leaning back and lit up a cigarette. “Yeah, and they get rewards from the manager, get to be introduced to some big shots in the city government as somewhat ‘Labour Hero’.” The company set multiple barriers, both punishments and treatments, but top operators

24

Workers preparing cloth for the second dyeing process in the elutriation room both punishments and treatments, but top operators left the industry like migratory birds in the local autumn. Their destination, according to the government’s data was mainly home. Realizing the age’s limitation on their promotion worsened by a coming downfall that threaten even those officials at the west bank, experienced workers went home for retirement. “Those sitting in the offices in the other side of the river know nothing. They assume our pals left for nothing and landed in nowhere, and they think recruiting more young idiots would help.

Who are they kidding?”

The “young idiots” have different views. “Some old folks have a strong opinion on us new here, going strict on our efforts and showing off their own strength by comparing with our efficiency,” Ms. D said, “but it’s not like we drove out the best workers from their places. We are the children of them.

Every time I try to blend in the conversations among women in my own workshop, I was set apart or they just stopped talking.” Such awkwardness further harmed the production efficiency and sustainability in the long term. In old factories, master-apprentice relationships are still maintained weakly, but without both enough masters or apprentice, core middle-aged workers found themselves in an awkward position. The few apprentices enjoying the high salaries and ranks were too proud to learn, while older workers themselves bear too little mastery to convince the younger ones. “They seem messy and strange even after those high-tech training sessions, but somehow, I guess we old hands should take some responsibility.” Mr. H quietly lit another cigarette.

Journalism “You can’t always smell something bad before you put it into your mouth, can you?”

BLOSSOM

The office was a bit brighter than the room three miles to the east. “One would only be blind to ignore this huge gap between international and national sales,”Mr. S reported, his loud voice now awkward without the hustling background noise that he was used to. “That’s only part of the reason why I resigned from international bulks to smaller businesses across provinces.” He turned back in surprise, too, and found the room “dead silent like nothing before.”

“These computers used to rock and roll with hands flying upon them.” With a slight glimpse through the window, Mr. S’s worry went beyond simply the loss of business. “In fact, I bought many of these computers myself for this office, and I got my first partnership afterward. What a gamble! Well, that was how people felt in that economic take-off. The 90s, and 2000s. I don’t think anyone in the market would be that confident now.” As the garment markets skyrocketed in sales during the 1990s throughout the 2000s from the earliest benefits of cheap labor provided by the freed laborers from the wide fields of the entire Yangtze River Delta region, every workplace was filled with enthusiasm and efficiency. As a traditional practice met with brand new deals from around the world, factories formed urgent relations with dealers like Mr. S. At that time, these firms’ communication skills and international trading experience led them to become the bridge connecting overseas demand with a matching, if not overwhelming, production in the mainland.

However, the urgent cooperation that only formed out of the extreme pressure from the coming economic tide did not forge long-term reliance. From the third decade of cooperation, the factories started to get distracted as the national need for higher-end garments increased with the overall economic trend.

Intermediate firms, who confidently believed in the “even more promising future in international economic relationships after the global financial crisis,” as reports once wrote, acted slowly upon this change. “You can’t always smell something bad before you put it into your mouth, can you?” Mr. S was clearly irritated by the mentioning of the shift but soon laughed awkwardly out of business habits.

“I mean, we had our domestic service offices, of course, but the focus was still international trades.

Yes, we did get to hire the best graduates two decades ago, but they majored in English and international relationships.”

25

Workers preparing cloth for the second dyeing process in the elutriation room

The general safety control room, where Mr. D used to work before the pandemic

Factory managers, on the other hand, were shrewder in a very different way. Instead of pondering over evaluations from the international relationships, they went directly for calculations that went far beyond their broken calculators on the counters. “I guess we didn’t have any posh stuff like actuaries or something: we just did what businesses always did: Bookkeeping. Mr. Z showed a slight smile on his stony face, “Our accountants just reported our own sales both for these bigger intermediate firms and for the new smaller local distributor around the countryside who only make weekly deals. Pretty apparently, that shift was clear: national economy boosted domestic consumption fast enough to drive the production towards local customers.” Apart from a seemingly short-viewed observation on the potential change in the market composition, the factories benefited from a more reliable yet multiple times more risky support: the government.

“We had relations with local authorities, and every factory did. There are just many, many positions in that red building for source of

West Bank

Journalism BLOSSOM information on upcoming policies.” One continual release of the policies was about the inclination of the Keqiao and Shaoxing governments towards the domestic market over the international one. Upon answering the “15th” national economic plan starting from 2009 to increase the proportion of domestic sales in the outlet Keqiao dyeing industry, authorities applied their full strength in connection, tax, and subsidies to the preference of factories. “From 2010, rumors about new subsidies ignited us because the connection with major customers who might have never learned about Keqiao dyeing was built instantly by our government.”

Trust played different roles in the collapse of the industry. From Mr. S’s point of view, trust was easily built up back in the turn of the century. “And that table, is where deals worth millions were signed.” Now covered in half a meter of wasted papers and broken file cases under the white dirt with marks from constant movements of furniture, it silently reflects on the industry’s downfall that turned belief into betrayals. For his reliable cooperators, nevertheless, trust had never been a worthy subject on that table.

Factories stayed humble, keeping the nature of their predescenders. Mr. Z seemed proud yet still bitter when explaining the factories’ choices. “We Zhejiang businesses know one thing: make fortune in modest ways. Sure, international trading firms indeed still counted as the major customers, but their deals could wait---you know what I mean?” He is laughing aloud.

They were too proud to tell us ‘humble workers from the countryside’ how the trading process works, or what could the exchange rate between currencies be on the next deal. They despised on the working labor. No information shared. Hence, why would we inform them about new policies? Our calculation already showed even more promising future with domestic market growth.”

Mr. S taking a photo of the factory’s abandoned entrance

The sewage treatment plans of the factory, announced last year

The Bulletin Board “Our Aim: Reliability and Harmony” Near the exit of the factory, darkened tracks of 30-ton trucks moving bulks of undyed materials on and off the slope towards the storage room is still visible under the rattling wheels of carts moving a monthly tribute of 10-ton cloth.

Undyed cloth in the storage room measured before entering the vats

26

In the bulletin board’s yellowish glass window was a “Keqiao Dyeing” magazine cover ripped off from a 2010 Summer volume. The title reads: “International Trading Firms: Reliability and Harmony when United”.The only thing new was a poster, its optimistic and cheerful giant golden Chinese characters surrounded by a wave of red outstood from the environment. They read “Our new Keqiao life: sweeter than ever, promising the best future.”

Journalism

BLOSSOM

Thank you, and happy birthday, Miku! Zeyu Zhang On August 31, 2023, virtual singer Hatsune Miku （初音 ミク ）will celebrate her 16th birthday, again.

However, this year is nothing like the past.

Although the age of Hatsune Miku has been set as 16 since her birth, this year features the REAL 16th birthday of Hatsune Miku.

27

Journalism

BLOSSOM

Rella. Official illustration of Hatsune Miku’s 16th anniversary.

About Hatsune Miku VOCALOID In February 2003, VOCALOID, a singing synthesis software developed by Japanese company YAMAHA, was released. By just inputting tones and lyrics, the software can automatically create vocals close to human voice(vocal-oid). To do so, a voicebank, which is created based on collected samples of human voice, is required.

VOCALOID 3 Editor Interface

Hatsune Miku is exactly a VOCALOID voicebank. Developed by Crypton Future Media, Inc. based on the VOCALOID 2 engine, and released in August 2007, she was the first VOCALOID developed by CFM, as well as the first member(CV01) of the Character Vocal Series(the successor to the initial unnamed VOCALOID "series" which consisted of MEIKO and KAITO). Her sound was provided

by Japanese voice actress Fujita Saki(藤田咲).

Name The name was chosen by combining hastu(“first”), ne(“sound”), and Miku(“future”), thus forming the meaning“the first sound from the future”. 39 is an important number for Miku - for 39 can also be pronounced as “Miku”. It can also be pronounced in another way that sounds like “thank you”. (Moreover, 8+31=39.)

Therefore, every year’s March 9th is celebrated as Miku Day, the second-most important festival of Miku’s fans, besides August 31st.

The CV Series (CV01 Hatsune Miku; CV02 Kagamine Rin & Ren; CV03 Megurine Luka)

28

Journalism

BLOSSOM

Important Moments

Appearance Hatsune Miku’s appearance, illustrated by Japanese illustrator KEI, was undeniably a major contributing factor to Miku’s rise to popularity. With the signature blue-green color and the iconic twin tails, Miku soon became known by more and more people. Worth noting is the design of Miku’s skirts and boots: they drew inspiration on synthesizer program colors, and adopted elements like bars and YAMAHA’s keyboard models. The squares around her pigtails are futuristic ribbons floating in the air.

It seems that these ribbons hold Miku’s pigtails in place without having to physically touch the hair itself.

According to Crypton, KEI didn’t even know what a “synthesizer” was, and insisted that he could not create an image of “a singing computer” which he had no idea of. However, after taking more than a month on this commission, the final outcome was satisfying.

August 31st, 2007 Hatsune Miku was released by Crypton Future Media, Inc. Along with the voicebank, the Crypton official also provided three short demos, aimed to illustrate the singing effects and features of Hatsune Miku. They soon grabbed the attention of music enthusiasts and spread online and offline.

Among these was a 49-second short clip, 01_ballade. A full version of it, “Hoshi no Kakera”(Fragments of the Star), was later made.

Carrying the significant symbolic meaning of being Miku’s first demo song(recognized as “the starting of the legend” on NicoNico), “Hoshi no Kakera” was used as the opening song or closing song at Miku’s lives for several times.

September 4th, 2007 Only 4 days after the release, “levan Pollka” was uploaded onto Nico Nico Douga, the biggest Japanese Douga website. It’s probably the most wide-known song by Hatsune Miku. Many came to know her through this cover of the Finish folk song, yet many more know this song but don’t know the singer. With the brainwashing melody and the silly and cute Miku waving a spring onion, the video soon got viral and introduced the new-born Hatsune Miku to the world. “Holding a spring onion” also became part of Miku’s character.

It is from this point on that fan-made contents, covering music, animation, illustrations, etc., started appearing on the Internet. Hatsune Miku has made her first step towards a virtual idol.

September 20th, 2007 “Miku Miku ni Shite Ageru♪” was born, and became the first VOCALOID song to reach 1,000,000+ views on niconico. Countless more songs have since been created by fans, among whom some later became famous producers.

Videos that have gained 1,000,000+ views on niconico are titled as VOCALOID Legends, and those that reach over 10,000,000 views will be known as VOCALOID Myths.

Till now, there are altogether 18 songs that have entered the VOCALOID Hall of Myths:

29

Journalism BLOSSOM February 24th, 2008 み く み く に し て あ げ る ♪ (Miku Miku ni Shite MikuMikuDance was released. It’s a 3D Ageru♪) animation engine created for the production of アスノヨゾラ哨戒班 (Asu no Yozora Shoukaihan) videos featuring VOCALOID characters, ア ン ノウ ン ・マ ザーグ ー ス (Unknown Motherincluding Hatsune Miku. By simply importing a 3D figure model, adding some motions, designing Goose) camera angles, setting a background and choosing ゴーストルール (Ghost Rule) the right music, anyone can produce a wonderful ドーナツホール (Donut Hole) video featuring their loved characters. Being easy マトリョシカ (Matryoshka ) for beginners, it allows more people to create メルト (Melt) their own 3D animated videos. Its impact was モザイクロール (Mozaik Role) significant - the number of fan-made 3D videos ローリンガール (Rolling Girl) uploaded and shared on the Internet boomed after the release. MMD is exactly short for these videos ワ ー ル ズ エ ン ド ・ ダ ン ス ホ ー ル (World's End that are created using MikuMikuDance.

Dancehall) ワールドイズマイン (World is Mine)

March 9th, 2010

*Miku was since known as a cute and proud “Ohimesama”(princess). Like the spring onion, it became a part of Miku’s character. 六 兆 年 と 一 夜 物 語 (Roku-chou Nen to Ichiya Monogatari) 初音ミクの消失 -DEAD END- (Hatsune Miku no Shoushitsu -DEAD END-) *VOCALOID songs can be generally categorized into two groups: those that focus on imitating real human voice, and those that explore fantastic techniques of electronic vocals. This piece is the representative of the latter - reaching a speed of 245BPM and containing 12 notes every second at its fastest part, this piece takes advantage of VOCALOID to create a unique listening experience. 千本桜 (Senbonzakura ) Perhaps Miku’s second-most popular song besides levan Pollka. 天ノ弱 (Amanojaku) 砂の惑星 (Suna no Wakusei) Many Japanese singers started out as VOCALOID producers. Yonezu Kenshi( 米 津 玄 師 ) is such an example. In fact, he was originally known by the name“Hachi( ハ チ )” when he posted his first VOCALOID song. 脳漿炸裂ガール (Noushou Sakuretsu Girl) 裏表ラバーズ (Ura-omote Lovers)

30

2010 was another turning point in Miku’s history.

On March 9th, 2010, Miku’s first solo live performance, titled “Miku no Hi Kanshasai 39’s Giving Day”(39’s Giving Day), was held in Tokyo. At first there was only Miku’s voice played; but 10 minutes after the live started, Miku appeared on stage for the fist time, becoming the first virtual idol to use holographic technology.

There were people screaming and crying in excitement - the virtual idol, for the first time, came into existence in the real world.

Journalism

BLOSSOM

Upcoming Events

Epilogue

MAGICAL MIRAI 2024

Crypton CEO, Ito Hiroyuki, claimed that he once viewed Hatsune Miku as simply a product, a revolutionary virtual instrument.

Magical Mirai is a combined event held every year around the time of Miku’s Birthday, covering live concerts and exhibitions, where fans and creators join together and have fun.

This year’s Magical Mirai has just ended on 3rd, September, in Tokyo. The theme this year is “hero”.

The official has already announced its decision on holding MAGICAL MIRAI 2024.

More information will come out later.

SNOW MIKU 2024 Miku has more than one officially recognized appearances. On of the most popular is Snow Miku, mascot of the winter Hokkaido. At fist it was just a sculpture of Hatsune Miku made by fans to celebrate the “Sapporo Snow Festival 2010”. After the official recognized this image, a “SNOW MIKU” Festival featuring “SNOW MIKU” has been held in Hokkaido every year.

The costume design is selected in an online competition under themes that differ each year.

SNOW MIKU 2024 will be the 15th anniversary.

Main events will be held from 2nd October to 2nd November, 2024. The official costume design has been released. This year’s theme is “winter food of Hokkaido”.

The theme song this year will be written by VOCALOID producer Reruriri(れるりり), the same producer of 脳漿 炸裂ガ ール (Noushou Sakuretsu Girl), on of the 18 VOCALOID Myths.

However, the love and enthusiasm from fans and creators around the world, the countless works of music, novels and art, the enormous impact she brought to the field of music creating, virtual technology and media, and the huge community centering around her, have all proved her existence as a real being beloved in people’s hearts.

Now Hatsune Miku is not only a symbol of VOCALOID or Japanese music: she became the ambassador of the 2017 Winter Asian Games in Sapporo, collaborated with Google, Sony, Toyota, BMW, etc., and appeared in games and animes.

Almost every corner of life, Hatsune Miku can be seen.

Since her birth on August 31, 2007, when she was introduced to the world as the first VOCALOID of the Character Vocal series (CV series), Hatsune Miku has accompanied every creator and fan around the globe for 16 years. During these years, Miku has won the heart of the world by bringing people countless laughs and heart-touching moments. Together, so many precious memories have been created. Having gone through growth and change for the past 16 years, the new-born Miku is ready to continue creating her future with everyone.

Crypton CEO Ito Hiroyuki Sending His Best Wishes on Miku’s Birthday, and Expressing His Hope That She Will Bring People Together

31

Art

BLOSSOM

Photographer: Eric Introduction: unknown white flowers near a lake reflecting the sunset glow, with green plants around

shot during COVID-19 quarantine Photographer: Eric

32

Art

BLOSSOM

Introduction: white hair old granny wearing a mask sitting in a temple, with "Gone when the flowers bloom again" written down below, while the dusk is slanting behind her

Name: Storm · Torch Material: acrylic paint, LED light Artist: Tianyi Shen Brief introduction: In 218 BC, Hannibal and his army crossed the Alps. "The great waves like the walls will devour the horses of war and slap the chariots into slag."

In 1812 AD, Turner put down his book and faced the canvas, as if he was standing in a crumbling tent. "Dying like this is not the same as the people in the flood, desperate and unable to save each other."

But they ignored a torch in the corner, merely a faint light, a scripture that fell into their hands under the tyranny of darkness. Let the great waves sweep the world---wash away the evils of war, and wash away these self-inflicted amorous ants ravaged by nature.

But these insects' belief in meaning is just like the firefly lit up on a summer night, although it is a spark wood chip from the body's chemical reaction, but it is also a landscape, isn't it?

Compared with the smoke of the steam age, the time and space we live in are more bizarre. Natural and man-made disasters are bad omens: nothing more than ruins, and dangerous buildings that are about to become ruins. However, should you and I, who are standing in front of us, light that lamp? Or do you let the meaning of existence disappear with it?

33

Art

BLOSSOM

Name: God's call Material: Procreate Artist: Kim Chang Introduction: As usual, on the Tibet plateau, a vermilion sunset is quietly receding. The green grassland gradually approaches the darkness.

Wind blows, and grass mourns.

The ancient tree, wreathed by the rotten scripted banners, still stands firm in the wind.

The roots are struggling to stretch down, trying to find hope; the upper desolate without the dancing green leaves on the curvy yet lonely branches.

The worshipping wind horse bunting, depicts the image of the almighty wind.

Floating is the might of the deity. Firm is people’s belief.

The white sheep on the steppe below are leisurely foraging for food, but they do not know that they are being called upon.

34

Fiction

BLOSSOM

--- Lily (Zeng Lingyi) “I'm sorry to inform you, Mr. Jones.

Your wife’s heart may not be able to support her for several months, and according to our professional medical team, Mrs. Jones only has about three months to live,” said Dr. Miller, who was the attending doctor of Mrs. Jones.

As Mr. Jones listened to Dr. Miller’s description of Mrs. Jones's heart problem, he looked through the glass window of the Intensive Care Unit at Mrs. Jones's old and pale face and looked through the precise instruments that kept her heart functioning. Mrs. Jones did give her all to the Jones family, leaving her job as a lawyer to become a stay-at-home wife after her marriage.

After having three children, Nicole, Anthony, and Edgar, Mrs. Jones put all her energy into taking care of them and managing this family.

Without exaggeration, Mrs. Jones was a perfect wife as devoting all her life to her husband, her children, and her family.

It’s a hard decision for Mr. Jones to tell Mrs. Jones the truth or not, to let Mrs. Jones stay in the hospital for treatment or not, and to tell their children the truth or not.

“Rosalind, dear, can you hear me?”

Mr. Jones said softly, probably the nicest attitude that he said to Mrs. Jones ever. Without being witnessed, a tear rolled down his face.

“Can I go home now, Sean? There's a basket of clothes at home that I haven't folded yet, and I promised Nicole today to make her muffin and send it to her.”

Mrs. Jones grabbed Mr. Jones’s hand, “I want to go home. I don’t want to stay

here.”

“Let’s go home, dear. I will inform the doctors.” Mr. Jones just held around Mrs. Jones and avoided letting his voice shake.

As Mr. Jones and Mrs. Jones were on their way back home, Mrs. Jones stared at her husband. “I heard that, Sean.

There is not enough time for me, right?

You even do not need to say, I can feel I am dying.” She said peacefully.

“No, Rosalind, no…I will find the best doctors, the most professional ones, and the best treatment for you. You can live, trust me.” Mr. Jones couldn’t stop crying, “I can’t lose you.”

“Sean, life is a circle. It’s time for me now and I want to have a gorgeous death rather than survive on the support of all those medical equipment. You know, I always love to be pretty.” Mrs. Jones seemed to be calmer than Mr. Jones.

“You know my favorite animal, right?

A butterfly. I will live, in another form.” ……

“I want to go back to the lake where we met, Swan Lake.” Mrs. Jones told Mr. Jones.

Mr. Jones turned the car around and the car went south. The setting sun shines on the white car as if it also indicates the end of the old human's life.

“Sean, remember when I was in college, I spent all my five years remembering the details of business law, dreaming of becoming a lawyer, just like Elle Woods (character in Legally Blonde). So many years have passed, I thought I just lived for one day.” Mrs. Jones stared at the surface of the lake.

35

Fiction Suddenly, Mrs. Jones had an angina attack and in an instant, she went faint. ……

“Rosalind, Rosalind? Please stay focused in class. Are you listening?”

Who was talking? Where was I? When was it now?

“When, when is now?” Mrs. Jones grabbed the hands of the people beside her.

“Time?”

“No, year.”

“1973. What happened, Rosalind?

Your reactions are so weird.”

Mrs. Jones recognized her face, Hailey, her best friend in college, however, since she got married, the times they met could be counted on two hands. They initially made a promise to establish a Law Firm on Wall Street together, obviously, she broke the promise.

“Hailey! So great to see you again…”

Rosalind whispered to herself and rushed to hug her.

“Well? What is going on? You are particularly unusual today, Rosalind.”

Hailey hugged her uncommon friend and was caring about her mental health.

Rosalind was still unbelievable that she was back in college. She ran to a mirror and pinched her face, but the pain of the long absence made her a little distorted.

If God had been willing to give her another chance to live again, she should have been willing to live for herself this time.

Rosalind grabbed the textbook from the desk. The familiar green cover made her memories back to fifty years ago.

The feeling of rereading the textbook was wonderful for Rosalind, which was familiar but strange. After studying for three nights, she nearly had kept up with

BLOSSOM

the current progress of the professor.

The time going to school was always very fast. Soon, it was time to graduate.

Rosalind always seemed to be born to study law, so it was easy for her to pass the graduation exam. This was a special node because this year she would meet Sean, the man who had always been good to her, and the man she was willing to return to her family for him.

Is this chance to start again really going to repeat the mistakes of her life?

No, she wanted to experience a different life, and she also wanted to fight for her dream once, which was regarded as giving herself a chance.

After graduation, she and Hailey first went to a local authoritative law firm to practice. Soon, Rosalind's talent in law was discovered by the lawyer partners. It is often said that it takes a long time to become a lawyer and to receive your first case, but sometimes, efforts did seem feeble in front of the talent.

Rosalind soon became a full-time lawyer from a paralegal, receiving more and more cases and becoming more and more famous in the industry.

She did something like Elle Woods.

But Rosalind sometimes was entangled with herself late at night and reflected on the decisions she had made in her life. Would she have been more successful if she had chosen to remain a lawyer rather than return to her family at the beginning? If she was not married, would she be able to fulfill her dream?

In this way, she has been fighting with herself on ego disposal.

But when she remembered her husband's meticulous care for her and the innocent faces of the children, she realized that she was doing a question without the right answer. There was

36

Fiction nothing to regret, even if many things were repeated, with her mind and experience at that time, she would still make the same choice and could not avoid the same result.

With another bout of angina, Rosalind suddenly opened her eyes.

This was a white room, and she was lying in a hypnotic chair. The soft backrest made her not want to straighten up. At a glance, she saw Sean, the old man with gray hair and the man she had accompanied all her life. At this time, Mrs. Jones realized that what had just happened was not a chance given to her

by God, but Mr. Jones made up a dream for her. Mrs. Jones thought she concealed well. She hid her law book at the bottom of the bedside table, but sometimes at the end of a tiring day, she would silently pick up the law book with a green cover. She thought she hid her dreams and ambitions well, but Mr. Jones also hoped that she could realize her dream again.

Lifetimes vary in length, with regret running through them.

Mrs. Jones could not answer the question with the “right” answer, and she didn’t want to blame anybody as well, but what she wanted was to warn her daughter to chase her dreams as she was young and had the chance.

Hopefully, this dream had let a vacancy in her heart be filled.

The next day, the Jones family had made their last family meeting. Mr. Jones told the truth to their children, Nicole, Anthony, and Edgar, that their mother couldn’t live for three months, and all three children couldn’t help crying.

“Oh, oh, why are you guys acting so strongly? I am 82 now, it’s now the time

BLOSSOM

for me. Well, I had written a letter for you, all four. My throat can’t support me to read out all for you, Anthony, please do that for me.” Mrs. Jones smiled peacefully and waved to Anthony.

“Yes…Mom…I will do that for you…” obviously, Anthony couldn’t help sobbing.

“Dear Sean, Nicole, Anthony, and Edgar: It’s time for me, I know. Words cannot express my emotions, but please let them help me deliver something. Anthony, you are the oldest child of this family. You cannot imagine how proud I was when you got into university, when you got married, and when I got my first grandson, John. Please enjoy every moment in the present, and you have no idea which of tomorrow or accident will come.

Edgar, my dear son, you just need to be brave enough to be yourself. You don't need to do what you “should” do at your age and gender to cater to others, because your life is designed to be kind to yourself. You don't need to blame yourself or feel guilty. You never need to feel sorry to be yourself. Have a wonderful life, son.

And Nicole, my lovely daughter, I haven’t told you about my dream, right?

Your father knows, my dream is to become a lawyer. Unfortunately, I haven’t got another chance for myself in my lifetime, so, girl, just chase your dream. Most people do nothing because they follow the crowd but do not pursue their dreams. But, girl, we only have life once. I wish you can meet more interesting people and lead a more interesting life.

Finally, my dear Sean. I have been married to you for so long, Rosalind

37

Fiction Jones or Mrs. Jones, I nearly forgot I was Rosalind Taylor. I am grateful for the dream you made up for me, which made me realize another life I would have. I love you, and I have done enough for this family in my life.

Looking forward to the day that we will meet again.

Love you all and always.

BLOSSOM

up a dream for her, and allow Rosalind to memorize her study experience, dreams and work experience at that time, and how she would choose whether she is willing to live for herself or not.

Surprisingly, she still wants to accompany family and take good care of three children and husband. Before her peaceful death, she writes letters to all her family members and spent the fullest rest of lives in the last three months.

Rosalind Jones Some people lack a formal ceremony to say goodbye to their family, they may just die unconsciously. Mrs. Jones spent her rest three months with her family, living the fullest the rest of her life. She passed away peacefully, in her sleep.

Time for another year of warm spring, a butterfly flew lightly around the Jones’ house, stopping at the courtyard.

“You know my favorite animal, right?

A butterfly. I will live, in another form.”

“You know my favorite animal, right? A butterfly. I will live, in another form.”

This is the sentence that appears most often in the article, and it is also a sentence that echoes the title ‘The Butterfly’. Rosalind’s attitude towards life is admirable. She sincerely devoted all her time to her family without a single complaint, and selflessly dedicated her life. But her efforts are not unrewarded. From the tone of her husband's words to her and the behavior of her children at the end of the article, it can be seen that she also lives in love and care. A harmonious family is never the contribution of one party, but is built by everyone.

Comment --- Jessica It’s a touching story, which shows the deep love about Mr. Jones and Mrs. Jones and the family built by the couple through large amount of simple dialogs.

The feeling of the love and mutual care between the older generation of parents and the dedication of women to the family will account for a large impression after viewing.

Overall, this story combines imagination and reality, and focuses on psychological description and dialogue, highlighting the character and life experience of Mrs. Jones. The simple and unpretentious writing is touching, but the events happen are common in our everyday life. Choosing between pursuing dreams and spending time with family is a problem faced by many people, the author's description makes readers empathize with it. It reflects the stories of many ordinary people, the life and death they face, and the multiple

The story begins with Mrs. Jones’ disease by illustrating the anxiety of Mr. Jones and peacefulness of herself.

Afterwards, the description about her faint, followed by a detailed psychological description, Mrs. Jones travelled back to the wonderful university life by Mr. Jones, who makes

38

Fiction choices they face. Meanwhile, it encourages readers to love themselves and their family, cherish the beatific life instantly, making it an emotionally and tearful story.

39

BLOSSOM

Fiction

BLOSSOM

--- Corona Mr. and Mrs. Goodman possessed a grand manor tucked away in the depths of the forest, secluded and undisturbed.

The dense foliage engulfed the manor tightly, discouraging any visitors. They got a boy named Jeff, and unlike other mischievous children, Jeff was a reserved kid and rarely threw tantrums at anyone. Consequently, this otherwise tranquil abode remained isolated from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, leaving the warbles of birds the only distinct sound.

Typically, Mr. and Mrs. Goodman were overwhelmed with work and would have already left for their respective jobs by this time in the morning. However, venturing out of the manor today would of course bring unimaginable trouble and unwanted attention for them. They felt annoyed by the relentless media presence but had no viable solution other than to retreat within the safety of their residence. On the other hand, their son Jeff, the boy who lived, had grown accustomed to such scenarios. Having spent most of his life within the manor due to a serious illness, his parents had insisted on providing him with homeschooling even after his recovery.

In fact, under normal circumstances, little Jeff would never have been at risk of falling prey to the killer. Being confined to the isolated manor made him a difficult target to find, let alone navigate the labyrinthine paths of the forest. The reason why little Jeff had almost become one of the tormented souls beneath the killer's grip was that he had ventured out of the house yesterday, unwittingly exposing himself as an exploitable loophole.

But today was an exception. Today, the Goodman house had no choice but to step into the limelight. Various media outlets had long taken hold of their cameras, vying for the best angle to capture the perfect shot. Soon, the flashbulbs would illuminate the manor and its occupants, shooing away the early birds lingering around the forest.

Who could blame them? The city was plagued by the looming threat of a serial killer, causing widespread alarm and trepidation. This unknown reaper had already claimed the lives of seven young children, casting a shadow over the once peaceful lives of every family. Such shocking news inevitably enticed the attention of the media, not to mention the presence of a real-life "Harry Potter"-the boy who lived-within the confines of the Goodman Manor.

Journalists had traversed the intricate forest, eager to interview him and obtain first-hand information.

Mr. and Mrs. Goodman were so tired of being bombarded by the media. All the flash lights and the chaos of the medias totally disrupted their life. They were so eager to return to their ordinary life as soon as possible. Thus, they thought of one expediency: to find a journalist who appeared honest and wouldn't make up ridiculous stories for grandstanding. So, they decided to invite a seemingly

40

Fiction sincere journalist for an interview. That's when a young reporter named Henry, in his early twenties, was welcomed into their home while other journalists had to leave disappointed.

BLOSSOM

He remained silent, not uttering a single word, as he stood on the stairs, scanning the condition of the house. His gaze briefly glanced at his parents, without pausing on any of the servants, until it finally fell upon Henry, the unfamiliar presence. Whether it was an illusion or not, there was a moment where Henry felt that Jeff, this young boy, looked at him with an eerie scrutiny, giving him an unsettling shiver.

However immediately, he shook his head, dismissing this absurd thought, thinking, "What am I even thinking? Look at the pallor on this boy's face; there must be some emotional trauma that has instilled fear within him at home."

Henry, a young and rustic man hailing from a small town, was filled with an insatiable ambition to prove himself, much like any budding professional.

Stepping into this isolated mansion which Walking into this isolated mansion, basking in the gloomy lighting, Henry felt no fear at all. Instead, he was filled with a sense of excitement emanating from every inch of his body. As he was invited to sit down, a servant came forward to serve him tea. Even the servant's courteous smile that doesn't reach the eyes appeared enthusiastic in Henry's exhilarated state, as if implying, "Your opportunity has arrived." Taking a deep breath, Henry made a concerted effort to restrain his excitement, and with utmost caution, he embarked on the interview with Mr. and Mrs. Goodman.

At first, the Goodmans contemplated dismissing the interview with vague responses. However, just as they were about to proceed mechanically, Jeff, their son, unexpectedly descended the stairs. In that very moment, Henry recognized a rare and invaluable chance to interview the young boy - an opportunity that could potentially pave the way for him to stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Initially, Mr. and Mrs. Goodman, like any concerned parents, felt a hesitation to include their son in the interview.

After all, they were parents, wary of exposing their son to the spotlight and potential scrutiny.

However, a realization slowly dawned upon them this unexpected turn could serve as a shortcut to swiftly conclude the interview while providing the journalist with a bit of a scoop to gather information and send him away.

Reluctantly, but with this goal in mind, they found themselves acquiescing to Henry's request.

After hours, Henry arrived at the newspaper office brimming with excitement. He couldn't help but feel that this day marked the start of something extraordinary in his career.

The sheer stroke of luck that had made him the sole reporter granted access to the Goodmans' interview left him awestruck. But his thoughts inevitably drifted to Jeff, the introverted boy, who seemed so horrified by the reaper that

Jeff appeared, his complexion pale to the point of gloominess, and a horrifying scar stretched across his neck. Leaning on the staircase, he walked slowly, step by step, without any haste to descend.

41

Fiction even during the interview he always fell silent for a moment before slowly and reluctantly answering in response to every question. Jeff’s pale face and his frightening wound on his neck lingered in his mind. Henry reflected on the situation, Henry recognized the sheer fortune that had saved Jeff from a potentially fatal injury, as the cut miraculously avoided his main artery.

And yet, Henry couldn't help but feel a similar sense of fortune had graced his own path. The opportunity to interview Jeff himself was nothing short of remarkable, creating a deepening conviction within Henry that this encounter could be the long-awaited turning point that propels him into the coveted spotlight.

BLOSSOM

could also suggest their own physical limitations. His mind started racing faster and faster: based on information obtained from the police, it was revealed that the murder weapon was a specially crafted knife that even a teenager could easily use it to reap one’s throat, emphasizing its sharpness and potentially linking it to a person of wealth or access to resources...

Henry was filled with a sense of accomplishment as he wrapped up his draft report, complete with his in-depth analysis of the elusive serial killer. He had poured his heart and soul into his work, hoping to impress his boss with his keen insights and meticulous profiling. However, when Henry presented his findings to his boss, she appeared indifferent, neither confirming nor denying the value of his work. This reaction left Henry disheartened, as he had expected his boss to recognize the significance of his contribution.

Jeff was determined to seize this opportunity and make the most of it. In an effort to contribute valuable insights and generate attention, he aimed to craft a more nuanced report. Drawing upon his profiling skills acquired during his time in college, he analyzed the patterns of the serial killer, hoping to shed light on the case and captivate readers.

As he made his way back home, Henry couldn't shake off his disappointment.

The weight of his unacknowledged analysis lingered in his mind, consuming his thoughts. He found himself retracing his steps, replaying the details of the serial killer's profile in his head. And then, it hit him: the profiling seemed oddly familiar.

All the victims were found murdered in remote, or forested areas with few witnesses around, indicating a predilection for isolated environments.

Was it possible that the killer's lack of communication skills? So he had to choose this isolated spot. The first clue sparked his enthusiasm. So what if taken by surprise from behind pointed to the killer's lack of confidence and possibly a weakness in physical strength? Henry was increasingly stimulated. He attempted to rack his brain to seek more inspirations. Yes! The murderer's preference for targeting young children

Who is it? .....

Deep within the confines of Goodman manor, Jeff was lying down on his bed.

The media had departed, and his parents had gone back to work. The home now echoed with eerie silence as usual,

42

Fiction disturbed only by the occasional sound of the maids and servants tending to their duties. Bathed in an ethereal glow, the feeble light struggled to penetrate the thick veil of gloom that shrouded the room, casting its haunting shadows upon Jeff's face. His features appeared distorted, almost as if veiled by a mist of darkness and uncertainty. Once, a servant knocked on his door, asking if he wanted some tea, but Jeff stared expressionlessly at the servant, taking a quite a while before responding with a dismissive "No, thank you." The maid was a little confused, but still left with the polite smile on his face. When the door was closed again, Jeff pondered silently, finding the servant's forced smile rather dull. In that instant, it made him believe even more that this was not a servant, but rather a cold, lifeless candlestick that served him. After a while, as if he had made up his mind about something, Jeff abruptly rose from his bed and opened the drawer.

BLOSSOM

How could this happen? Henry didn’t know, as he was not fortunate enough to receive a second invitation. The citizens didn’t know; who would draw the connection between a victim who was still a little boy and a brutal serial killer, probably one ingenious reason why Jeff cut himself. Was it because of the illness?

The possible taunts at his feeble strength by some kids when he first sneaked out?

Or perhaps the envy he felt toward the healthy bodies of other children? The answer remained unknown. The police still failed to find out who the killer was.

Who would relate a boy, a victim to the murderer? But if Jeff were to reflect on it himself objectively, I guess, he would draw this on the isolation from human interaction and the outer environment.

Comment --- Andrew This is a captivating and suspenseful piece of fiction with a dark and intriguing storyline. The narrative builds tension effectively, and the characters, particularly Jeff and Henry, are well-developed, making readers empathize with their experiences and dilemmas. The gradual revelation of Jeff’s involvement in the serial killings is a powerful twist that adds depth to the story.

The exploration of isolation as a theme is compelling, as it delves into the psychological impact of being cut off from the outside world and how it can shape a person’s behavior and perception. The diary element is a clever device for revealing the truth behind the serial killings, and it adds an element of mystery and suspense to the story.

The story prompts readers to reflect on the complexities of human psychology and the potential for unexpected

......

If Henry was lucky enough that he was again invited to the Goodman manor, he might accidentally find out the diary locked in the drawer. If the dusty pages fell open beneath his fingertips, a revelation would await him, a revelation that would unearth the truth behind the killer's identity. It was all written in the diary. As soon as he read it, he would surprisingly found out that, Jeff, the victim, the little boy who lived, fit all his profiles of the serial killer. It was written in diary how Jeff evolved: how a boy sneaked out for friends transformed to a murderer sneaked out for killing gradually.

43

Fiction darkness within seemingly innocent individuals. It also raises questions about the role of isolation, illness, and external influences in shaping a person's actions and choices.

In a nutshell, this is a well-crafted and thought-provoking piece of fiction that keeps the reader engaged and leaves them with lingering questions about the characters and their motivations.

44

BLOSSOM

Opinion

BLOSSOM

In contemporary discussions, the hijab, a garment traditionally adorned by many Muslim women, has become a topic of contention in Western societies. While historically respected as an emblem of modesty and a reflection of Islamic cultural and religious tenets, its perception has been overshadowed by the aftermath of the 9/11 events. Today, many in the West perceive it through a lens of misconceptions, often linking it to female subjugation in specific Islamic societies. This narrow perspective overlooks the diverse reasons many Muslim women choose to wear the hijab, seeing it as an expression of their faith, personal identity, and cultural roots.

This piece aims to explore this subject further, drawing insights from a news report that highlights the contemporary relevance of the hijab.

--- Emily soccer fields, underscore this momentum.

Venturing into the crossroads of queer identity and Islamic faith, the report spotlights initiatives like the Safra Project, which champions LGBTQ+ Muslim women. Despite facing backlash from both Muslim and non-Muslim factions, these women proudly integrate the hijab into their queer identity, thereby contesting conventional notions of gender and sexuality. The narrative culminates in an exploration of the hijab as a potent symbol of defiance against the commodification and sexualization of women in capitalist societies. Figures like publicist Nadiya Takolia and street artist Princess Hijab wield the hijab as a tool to challenge prevailing capitalist beauty standards, advocating for self-worth and a rejuvenated feminist perspective.

"Muslim feminists reclaim the hijab to fight the patriarchy" presents a compelling argument, emphasizing the hijab's importance to numerous Muslim women as an integral facet of their identity. The report underscores the burgeoning online Muslim feminist movements that harness the power of social media to challenge gender disparities. Notable campaigns, such as those against Birmingham College's face veil prohibition and FIFA's hijab ban on

In the wake of 9/11, Western nations experienced a heightened sense of distrust and bias against Muslims and their cultural practices. This often translated into discrimination, with Muslim women who wore the hijab becoming prime targets. The rise of the Taliban and their portrayal by the U.S. media and leadership as oppressors, particularly of women, intensified these sentiments. The hijab, in this context, became a rationale for U.S. military

45

Opinion

BLOSSOM

interventions in the Middle East, labeled as counter-terrorism initiatives.

Consequently, the Western perspective shifted, viewing hijab-wearing Muslim women through a lens of pity and sympathy, simplifying the narrative to equate the hijab solely with oppression.

narrative. While social media amplifies the voices of Muslim women challenging Western hijab bans, it also reinforces certain biases. This dilutes the true spirit of feminism and hinders genuine initiatives to support women in distress.

I discern two main drivers behind this shift: 1) the media's potent influence in shaping public sentiment, particularly its intersection with feminism, and 2) a skewed interpretation of "feminism" that seeks to impose one's values on others.

In the U.S., feminism is primarily understood as a movement and ideology championing gender equality, justice, and women's rights. Yet, there's an irony when Westerners, under the banner of feminism, impose their beliefs on Muslim women, inadvertently overlooking their rights. As highlighted in a book, Dr. Suheila Siddiqi chose not to don the burqa but embraced a light veil over her hair. This signifies her personal choice to reject the burqa while accepting the chador or scarf. It's crucial to challenge the oversimplified view that equates veiling solely with the suppression of women's freedom, even if we oppose its mandatory enforcement by the state. The book aptly states, "We should be cautious about the rhetoric of 'saving' others due to the underlying implications." The act of "saving" implies a rescue from a perceived negative situation to a presumed better one. But what are the underlying assumptions about the superiority of the latter?

And what unintended consequences might arise from such interventions?

For example, the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 was framed as a mission of liberation from Saddam Hussein's despotic rule. Yet, the ensuing chaos, widespread violence, and significant casualties raised doubts about the genuine concern for the Iraqi people's welfare. A parallel can be drawn with NATO's intervention in Libya in 2011.

Even though media in democratic societies may not be under direct governmental influence, it often gravitates towards narratives that support political objectives. With news increasingly consumed as entertainment, there's a lack of effort in understanding diverse perspectives, leading to biased views and susceptibility to manipulation.

This occasionally diverts feminism from its foundational principles. The undue emphasis on the hijab as an oppressive symbol overshadows other critical challenges Afghan women confront, such as economic hardships, health issues, and recent Taliban-imposed restrictions. Historical instances, like the undue focus on the veiling of Egyptian women while neglecting broader educational needs, resonate with this

When discussing the hijab, it's crucial for Western individuals to avoid superimposing their perspectives onto Middle Eastern women. The focus should be on honoring their decisions and independence rather than urging them to align with Western norms. The

46

Opinion article also notes that certain Muslim women don the hijab as a protest against the commodification of women.

However, this viewpoint warrants examination, as it implies that showing one's body inherently leads to its sexualization, inadvertently casting a judgment on Western women's choices.

True feminism transcends media biases and promotes an unbiased worldview. It champions the idea that every woman, regardless of her cultural or religious background, should have the autonomy to make choices without external pressures. Respecting the choices of Muslim women is a testament to genuine feminist values.

Comment --- Andrew I believe that Emily's views on headscarves do not require significant modification in the first paragraph (perhaps a brief introduction about the importance of headscarves for Muslim women can be added to let readers understand the content). In the second paragraph, it may be helpful to include information about the obstacles and difficulties that Muslim and non-Muslim factions have put up against Muslim women wearing headscarves, or the challenges they have faced during protests, to give readers a deeper understanding of the significance of headscarves for Muslim women.

47

BLOSSOM

48