Of
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Issue
Classic
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CONTENTS 1 Music Little Women
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3
The Great Gatsby
CONTENTS 4
EMMA.
The Great
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MUSIC
The Planets, Op. 32: 4. Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity \ Gustav Holst, Berliner Philarmoniker, Herbert von Karajan Fantasiestücke, Op. 73: No. 1, Zart und mit Ausdruck \ Robert Schumann, Hélène Grimaud, Sol Gabetta String quartet in F Major, M.35: 1. Allegro moderato. Très doux \ Maurice Ravel, Emerson String Quartet Little Women \ Alexandre Desplat Laurie and Jo on the Hill \ Alexandre Desplat
MUSIC
Young and Beautiful \ Lana Del Rey
Jubilee Swing (03-20-40) \ Ella Fitzgerald Lazy Bird - Remastered 2003/Rudy Van Gelder Edition \ John Coltrane My One And Only Love \ John Coltrane, Johnny Hartman I Fall In Love Too Easily \ Chet Baker I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm \ Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong Love Theme From Spartacus - Rudy Van Gelder Remaster / 2006 \ Yusef Lateef
LITTLE
Why We Need to Read Classics…. The 19th Century through Little Women Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is one of the first novels that comes into our minds when we think of books that define classic literature. However, while Little Women is generally thought of to be one of the pioneering staples in literature, or condemned as an overly sentimental and moralistic tale, we can’t deny that it does not capture the 19th-century era of America perfectly. In fact, what many fail to realise about classical literature is that even though the majority of fiction were once written for entertainment, the importance of understanding these works in the modern day, isn’t for the altruistic plot or characters, but rather the societal values and norms of the time in which they were written. Fictional stories like Little Women and The Great Gatsby are treasure troves of insights into the values, beliefs, and struggles of the people who lived during those periods. In the following discussion, the focus will be on Alcott’s narrative into the lives of the March sisters, which offers an accurate portrayal of the family dynamics, societal expectations, and the wartime milieu that characterised 19th century America. Arguably, the most important characteristic of the 19th century societal atmosphere depicted in Little Women were the harsh expectations that women were subjected to at the time. The novel’s main focus of the March family is a microcosm of the norms at the time, meticulously showing how the roles and expectations imposed upon women affected the four sisters. We see the pressure of these expectations reflected in the challenges and aspirations in their lives, as they are encouraged to conform to the ideals of marriage and domesticity. The societal fabric in the 1800s was tightly woven with the belief that a woman’s primary role was to be a wife and mother, and Little Women illustrates this paradigm immaculately, emphasising that no matter the goals of aspirations of each individual girl, they were still confined to the limited opportunities available to women beyond these traditional roles.
“I may be mercenary, but I hate poverty, and don’t mean to bear it a minute longer than I can help. One of us must marry well . . . so I shall, and make everything cozy all round.”
The embodiment of 4 women, despite having aspirations scattered all across the spectrum, Meg - Excited at the prospect of eventually marrying into stability and luxury, Beth - Content with the status quo of simplicity, Jo - Driven by the goal of career and independence, and Amy - Yearning for respect and recognition from others. were expected to follow the same path no matter whether it aligned with their ambitions or not. The novel becomes a lens through which the readers witness the constricted system laid out for women, highlighting the pervasive expectation that their fulfilment and societal contribution would be recognised only through marriage and establishing a family unit. Even though women like Jo March were more than capable of creating a career for themselves if not for their gender, the limited opportunities for women forced them to rely on men for economic stability. As the sisters grapple with the tension between personal desires and societal dictates,
WOMEN
the reader gains an understanding of the common sacrifices and compromises most women were demanded to make.
“[Meg] had her girlish ambitions and hopes, and felt some disappointment at the humble way in which the new life must begin.”
We can also observe how 19th century society looked down upon families that deviated from the established family unit, and the judgement and social ostracization faced by those who challenged conventional norms. Families that did not adhere to expectations of marriage and domesticity were often stigmatised, reflecting a rigid social structure that struggled to accommodate alternative lifestyles. These themes are important to understand, as they are what influences the stereotype of an “ideal family” archetype common during the 19th century and beyond. Little Women allows us to explore this through the narrative, which although fictional, is based on the situation of a society where the March family’s struggles were shared by women across the time period. The virtues and values of a society from two centuries ago are certainly different to what our priorities have changed to now, and while it may be hard to understand the justifications of seemingly unjustifiably and unfair values of people at the time, Little Women’s hypothetical circumstances help us emphasise with the struggles of the era. While traditionally we prioritised the preservation of the family unit and the virtue of women as nurturing mothers, we witness seeds of defiance to the status quo sown in by the character of Jo March. Jo’s aspirations and actions diverge from these traditional values, and she exhibits traits of independence and self-sustenance. Her pursuit of a career as a writer, driven by a desire of personal fulfilment and autonomy, challenges conventional expectations placed on women in the 1800s. These ideas were incredibly forward in an era when the actions of both women AND men were dictated with constraints. While we now associate themes of independence, freedom of expression and becoming equality with American society in the 21st century, the mere thought of these values in Alcott’s time was extremely taboo - especially for women. Therefore Jo’s inclination towards independence in this setting was even more remarkable - her pursuit of a career and refusal to conform to societal expectations laid the groundwork for a subtle yet revolutionary expression of feminism. Through Jo, Alcott defied the norms of her time and paved the way for a future where women’s pursuit of independence would be celebrated. Jo’s ambitions were largely discouraged by people around her, with many even trying to persuade her to give up her dreams as a writer entirely.
“Be everything to father and mother when I’m gone . . . and if it’s hard work alone, remember that . . . you’ll be happier in doing that, than writing splendid books, or seeing all the world; for love is the only thing that we can carry with us when we go.”
Of course, the importance of love and relationships cannot be disregarded, but rarely did a woman have a choice to pursue independence alongside more traditional routes like being
a mother. Instead of focusing on the message that traditional values of motherhood and dependence should be completely annihilated for ambition, the novel tells readers that anyone should be able to choose to pursue whatever path they want without scrutiny, regardless of one’s gender, race, class or values.
“Just because my dreams are different than yours, it doesn’t mean they’re unimportant.”
This idea is further explored and brilliantly adapted in the live-action film Little Women (2019) directed by Greta Gerwig, but Alcott’s acknowledgement of this concept in the original novel was groundbreaking for its time. In contemporary society, values like independence and self-sufficiency have taken precedence over the traditional ideals of motherhood and family preservation. Because of this, Jo March, once an anomaly in her pursuit of independence, becomes a trailblazer whose actions resonate with modern sensibilities that value autonomy and personal fulfilment. Little Women, therefore, becomes a literary mirror reflecting not only the virtues cherished in the 1800s but also the seeds of change that would eventually blossom into new societal values. Alcott’s genius lies in her ability to look past the constraints of her era and anticipate a future where the pursuit of independence by women would not only be an option, but also celebrated. The novel helps us understand how long we have come in terms of societal evolution and progress, but also reminds us that there is still work to be done in achieving true equality and acceptance of diverse paths and choices. Little Women also provides a reliable portrayal of the social and cultural milieu during the Civil War era. Influenced by her own surroundings, Alcott’s novel provides a detailed depiction of how the war impacted the March family, particularly the sacrifices the sisters made due to America’s situation in the 19th century. Primary experiences of people who lived during the war (even if it is a hypothetical family) are important in understanding what society was like during it, as they often include details about the social and cultural context of the time that mere facts and history books could not describe. Many of these facts and history books neglect the often-overlooked contributions of women during the Civil War. Little Women fills in these gaps, as not only does the book describe what people’s attitudes toward the war was like, but also how many families (hypothesised), like the Marches, coped with the challenges and changes brought about by the war. While the Civil War brought many significant changes to America such as the abolition of slavery and the emergence of new social and political systems, it brought about lesser discussed changes to societal norms, which are debatably just as important. The novel sheds light on these transformative times by depicting the March sisters’ experiences and their response to the societal changes. While men were traditionally in charge of everything when it came to managing a household, as the majority of them took up arms and left for the battlefields, the role of women – much like the March sisters – gradually transcended into more than just the traditional confines of domesticity.
“I’ll try and be what he loves to call me, ‘a little woman,’ and not be rough and wild; but do my duty here instead of wanting to be somewhere else.”
In the absence of their father, they confronted the challenges of maintaining a household that families formerly relied on men for. Although this adaptation was and should have been difficult for most families since generations of societal constraints have limited women’s freedom to become individuals without male counterparts, it contributed to a nationwide movement of women embracing this new responsibility by adapting quickly, instead of struggling like expected. Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy’s attempts to uphold their dignity go beyond the mere pres-
ervation of familial stability; they become architects of resilience, embodying the strength required to uphold the fabric of society when faced with the strains of war. The novel shows the sisters’ struggles to navigate a world where societal structures were disrupted, traditional gender roles were upended, and economic stability was precarious. Alcott skillfully weaves these challenges into the fabric of the story, allowing readers to witness firsthand the societal impact of the war and the profound adjustments women had to make in response to the shifting landscape.
“I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.”
This novel becomes a literary canvas upon which the resilience, resourcefulness, and transformative roles of women during wartime are vividly depicted - alluding to the American Civil War as being an instigator to women striving for more rights after having a taste of freedom while the men were away fighting. Their endeavours to contribute to the household income, pursue personal aspirations, and provide emotional support underscore the multifaceted nature of women’s wartime contributions. Little Women is a testament to the overlooked heroism of women who, in the shadows of history, upheld the foundations of society during periods of conflict. However, we must also attribute their unspoken contribution in proving to the rest of society that women in fact have the ability to become functioning members of society beyond their primitive roles. Through the lens of the March sisters, Alcott not only captures the personal trials and tribulations of these fictional characters but also immortalises the collective spirit of countless real-life women who navigated the uncertainties of war with grace, fortitude, and an indomitable sense of purpose. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter whether you find classical literature enjoyable or tedious, because the role of classics like Little Women in today’s world are way more significant than for merely entertainment purposes. Through Louisa May Alcott’s exploration of dynamics, shifting moralities, and the social and cultural milieu of the 1800s, we are more likely to understand why society was the way it was towards women, and how the American Civil War became a push factor that helped change these narrow mindsets, allowing more options to become available to women - more than just the pathway to domesticity and reliance. Novels like Little Women are important because they help readers understand the social contexts of these eras, and by studying and appreciating classical literature, we gain a better understanding of our history, the progress we have made, and the lessons we can learn from those who came before us.
THE GREAT Chasing The American Dream: The Illusion of Success in The Great Gatsby
The American Dream is a beacon of hope and aspiration that has been shaping the stories of self-made wealth in the United States since the 20th century. This idea started peaking throughout the Roaring Twenties, a period coined famously for its rapid economic growth and shift in cultural norms. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby is not only famous for the ideas on aspects of this period, but also its critique towards the American Dream. The story follows Jay Gatsby, who embodies the ideals of the American Dream, who strives for material success and social status to achieve his ultimate goal of winning back a woman. This classic is iconic because it examines the emergence of the American Dream, how it manifested in ambitious Americans like Gatsby, while also satirically revealing the illusion and decline of this once-attainable ideal. Transitioning to the present day, we will explore the contemporary reflections on the American Dream, how the use of symbolism and characterisation showed the validity of this concept, as well as how Fitzgerald used these aspects to create one of the most timeless commentary on this period without the benefit of retrospect. The 1920s was a period of economic prosperity and social transformation. As we have seen in many instances before, the aftermath of World War 1 meant that not only did the United States emerge as a global economic power, it also went through a cultural change. This included the evolution in the “American Dream”, which previously only rooted in ideals of hardwork and self-reliance, was now challenging the possibility of upward mobility in society and wealth regardless of your background. This idea started gaining momentum as it was completely unprecedented. Never before had America seen such motivation among its people and immigrants, all eager to have a shot at achieving this aspiration. Jay Gatsby, one of the main characters in the novel is a symbol for this ambition, where his extravagant parties, opulent mansion and relentless pursuit of Daisy Buchanan reflect the social emphasis on material success as a measure of achieving the American Dream. However, Jay is not the only character nor troupe that Fitzgerald uses to characterise American society and the time. The complexities of this era meant that some of the newfound prosperity didn’t come unchallenged. While the economic boom brought affluence to some, it also deepened the divide between social classes. The growing wealth disparity was mirrored in the novel’s setting, with characters like Tom Buchanan symbolising the old money aristocracy who did not have to strive for social acceptance, directly contrasting Gatsby’s representation of the “new money crowd”. While material wealth was what mainly swayed Daisy’s attraction to Tom, his upper-class identity was also significant. Daisy is another character symbolising a troupe of the 20s, representing ultimate status and fulfilment of the American Dream – these aspects are what attracts Jay to her. While the debate over whether he really loved her may be obscure, Fitzgerald’s intentions with what their relationship represents is clear. The green light on Daisy’s dock is a symbol for this connection, while seeming genuine, is superficial to say the least. It is the elusive and fleeting nature of wealth, and the happiness that the American Dream promises with such achievement. However like many Americans, Gatsby’s pursuit is ultimately fleeting, and leads to tragedy and disillusionment. While the idea of a meritocratic America seemed to be what people believed, in retrospect
GATSBY
we have established that social climbing is not always determined by merit. Soon after the Roaring 20s, America’s prosperity came crashing down, leading to the onset of the Great Depression which marked the beginning of the decline of the American Dream. While it seemed completely possible less than a decade ago, economic hardships, job losses and widespread disillusionment shattered the belief in the possibility of achieving success through hard work and determination. In The Great Gatsby, Nick Carraway reflects on this decline through his narration. Nick witnesses the disintegration of the American Dream, as he observes lavish parties and extravagant lifestyles of the elite, he also witnesses the moral decay and corruption lying beneath the surface. While most of the other characters in the story all represent a troupe of American society, Nick’s perspective is that of Fitzgerald’s, revealing his critique of the hollowness of the pursuit of wealth and status. Looking back from modern times, we can observe that while the belief in the American Dream rose and fell throughout the 20th century, this disillusionment still resonates today. The gap between the rich and poor continues to widen, and the idea of upward mobility is still a sought-after goal. In current times, the rise of social media and the constant exposure to curated lifestyles have created a new form of the American Dream, one that is often built on the illusion of perfection. The pressure to meet unrealistic standards, both in terms of appearance and achievement, has further complicated the pursuit of happiness, leading to a sense of inadequacy and anxiety. Many argue that systemic barriers and unequal access to opportunities contribute to the difficulty of achieving success, but as society grapples with these issues in contemporary life, it is evident that we will continue to face this cycle of disillusionment and inequality until meaningful changes are made to address the systemic barriers that exist in our society. Transitioning to the present day, the American Dream is viewed through a lens of scepticism and unattainability. Economic inequality, stagnant social mobility, and systemic challenges have created barriers to realising the dream for many. The promise of success through hard work has been replaced by a sense of disillusionment and frustration. In the modern era, the American Dream has become a subject of intense debate and scrutiny. While technological advancements and globalisation have opened new avenues for success, they have also widened the wealth gap and intensified social stratification. The hollowing out of the middle class, a phenomenon eerily foreshadowed by Fitzgerald’s narrative, has become a defining feature of contemporary society. Cultural and literary references, such as the works of contemporary writers and thinkers, echo this sentiment. Novels, films, and essays depict a society grappling with the realisation that the American Dream, once perceived as the cornerstone of the nation’s identity, now seems like an unattainable ideal for a significant portion of the population. Moreover, the advent of the digital age has transformed the landscape of success. The rise of social media and the constant exposure to curated lifestyles have created a new form of the American Dream, one that is often built on the illusion of perfection. The pressure to meet unrealistic standards, both in terms of appearance and achievement, has further complicated the pursuit of happiness, leading to a sense of inadequacy and anxiety. To explore the contemporary resonance of The Great Gatsby, we must consider the impact of globalisation on societal aspirations. The interconnectedness of the modern world has expanded opportunities but has also intensified competition. The relentless pursuit of success, mirrored in the character of Jay Gatsby, often comes at the cost of personal relationships and genuine fulfilment. This shift in focus from intrinsic values to external validation parallels the novel’s exploration of the emptiness that accompanies the pursuit of an unattainable dream.
Drawing parallels between the societal attitudes of the 1920s and the present day unveils striking similarities. The pursuit of material success remains a driving force, yet the dream appears even more elusive in the face of contemporary challenges. The Great Gatsby serves as a timeless commentary on this perpetually unattainable nature of the American Dream, transcending its original context to resonate with audiences across generations. The evolving nature of the American Dream prompts us to consider the changing definition of success. In the 1920s, success was often equated with material wealth and social status. Gatsby’s extravagant parties and his accumulation of wealth were emblematic of this era’s ideals. However, the contemporary landscape has seen a shift towards a more holistic understanding of success. The emphasis is now placed on personal fulfilment, work-life balance, and social impact. Moreover, the role of gender in the pursuit of the American Dream has undergone significant transformation. In the 1920s, traditional gender roles were deeply ingrained, influencing societal expectations and opportunities. Daisy Buchanan, constrained by societal norms, becomes a symbol of the limitations placed on women’s aspirations. In contrast, the present day witnesses a continual push for gender equality, with women breaking barriers and redefining their roles in various spheres. This shift in societal dynamics has reshaped the contours of the American Dream, broadening the scope of possibilities for all individuals. However, despite these advancements, the contemporary era grapples with its own set of challenges. The pervasiveness of technology, while opening new avenues for communication and information, has also created a sense of disconnection and isolation. The constant comparison facilitated by social media has led to feelings of inadequacy, echoing the emptiness felt by Gatsby in his pursuit of an idealised version of happiness. Additionally, the economic landscape has become more complex, with job insecurity and the gig economy reshaping traditional notions of stability. The promise of the American Dream, once grounded in the notion of a secure job and a stable income, now confronts the uncertainties of a rapidly changing global economy. In examining these parallels and contrasts, it becomes evident that The Great Gatsby remains a relevant and insightful commentary on the evolving nature of the American Dream. The novel’s exploration of the illusion and unattainability of success transcends its original context, offering timeless insights into the human condition and the perennial quest for fulfilment. In conclusion, The Great Gatsby not only encapsulates the spirit of the Roaring Twenties but also serves as a profound exploration of the illusion and ultimate decline of the American Dream during that era. As we reflect on the past and examine the present, the unattainability of the American Dream becomes increasingly apparent. Fitzgerald’s narrative not only captures the exuberance of the Roaring Twenties but also foretells the eventual decline of the American Dream, a decline that persists into the contemporary era, shaping discourse on the pursuit of happiness and success. The enduring relevance of The Great Gatsby lies in its ability to guide contemporary discourse, urging us to reconsider our societal values and the elusive nature of the American Dream in the 21st century. The novel prompts us to critically examine the evolving definition of success, the impact of societal changes on aspirations, and the consequences of an unbridled pursuit of an idealised version of happiness. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, The Great Gatsby serves as a poignant reminder that the American Dream, while a symbol of hope and ambition, is also a reflection of societal values and aspirations. By unravelling the illusions and unattainability embedded in Gatsby’s pursuit, we gain valuable insights into our own quest for success and fulfilment. The legacy of The Great Gatsby endures not only as a literary masterpiece but also as a mirror reflecting the aspirations, challenges, and complexities of the American Dream across generations.
(2020) dir. Autumn Wilde
Emma is a period romcom based on Jane Austen’s 1815 novel of the same name. Set in 1800s England, “handsome, clever, and rich” Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) enjoys meddling into the love lives of her friends and family. As audiences we witness Emma become too involved in these relationships, including persuading Harriet Smith (Mia Goth) to reject the proposal of farmer Mr. Robert Martin (Connor Swindells). The visuals, costume design and set create an atmosphere that blends modernity with the authenticity to the era it was set in. The film’s dry and witty humour stands out, paying great homage to Austen’s own humour that is often overlooked. The cast delivers sharpness and comedy perfectly and are one of my favourite aspects of the movie. Although it may take a while to enjoy the film (and it might not be for everyone), Emma should still be appreciated for its excellent cinematography, light heartedness, absurdity and freshness that is not seen in many other Jane Austen adaptations.
(2020) Tony McNamara
Loosely based on the longest-reigning female ruler in Russia’s history Catherine the Great, The Great is a satirical comedy drama that follows Catherine (Elle Fanning) to Russia to marry Emperor Peter III (Nicholas Hoult). Catherine becomes hopeless as she realises Peter’s selfishness and the fact that he only married her for an heir. About to commit suicide, she finds out about a law in Russia: if an emperor dies without an heir, the throne will go to the empress. Through this, she plots to overthrow her husband. The divergence from historical accuracy allows the series’ satire and dark comedy to shine, along with its grotesque and absurd scenes that may not be everyone. Regardless, the brilliant writing and acting go hand in hand with the humour and chaos that is prevalent throughout the show. The extravagance of the character’s costumes, set design and timeline is entirely juxtaposed by the dark, modern humour, but are still able to blend together to balance aspects of classic period drama with light, witty comedy that makes the series wortwhile to watch. Note: this series is not for children.
WRITERS Joy Luo Karina Gunawan
EDITOR Karina Gunawan
DESIGNER Karina Gunawan