Issue 67 - March 2018

MAGDALEN

HERE’S HERES TO US A STYLE RENEWAL

MARCH 2018

ISSUE 67

TIME’S UP

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MAGDALEN ISSUE 67 MARCH 2018

Welcome to the March issue of the Magdalen!

This month we’re thinking about new beginnings, timely so as this is the first issue for our new Creative Directors: Molly Porteous, Olivia Sharkey, and Iona Sorbie! It’s also the month of the DUSA Elections seeing eight new people take up roles within our Exec, some of whom will be graduating and walking into a paid job, ironically in the same building where they previously spent much of their free time.

Over the course of the month, DUSA Media will be reporting all the highlights of the elections, alongside live streaming coverage of Hustings (2nd of March) and Results Night (9th of March). Leading the interviews and much of the correspondence will be our Deputy Editor, Murray Glen, alongside some of the Fibre, JAM and Tay Productions teams - bringing together our media family for one of the most important events of the DUSA calendar.

We also have the Sports Union Elections coming up, and Varsity - all crammed into one month. And if that wasn’t enough, March is also the month of St Patrick’s Day and this year marks the 17th anniversary of DUSA’s event: making it truly legendary. I think Rose summarized it best in her article, “How Do You Survive St Patrick’s Day,” in the Lifestyle Section (though we do not condone drinking for 24 hours as a lifestyle!).

University can get a little crazy and hectic sometimes, and with so much going on, coursework and deadlines, prep for exams, and everything else which comes in between: remember to relax, unwind, listen to JAM / read Fibre / watch Tay, but most importantly, remember it’s Spring - the weather is getting warmer, the sun is coming out, and you can almost see the end of semester!

Hang on to that, and let’s get through March!

Mila Georgieva Editor In Chief

Dear Readers, For us, The Magdalen began with some enthusiastic fourth year graphic designers striding into our studio, gushing about a fabulous opportunity we had the chance to participate in. At the time, we were in our very first year of studying graphic design and really had no idea how to even begin to go about creating a magazine spread. However, they insisted that this was the perfect chance to learn, for as long as it suited the article, we had the freedom to design whatever we wanted without having to explain ourselves to our tutors.

Ultimately, they were right. The Magdalen, month by month, has taught us many technical skills needed to work various design programmes and helped us learn what mistakes not to make. More than that, it has been a creative outlet away from our graded University projects, which has given us so many chances to enjoy experimenting with our design skills. It’s incredible to think how far we have come since that time not so long ago.

With this being The Magdalen’s 10th year, we’ve had the chance to look back and learn and appreciate all the years and people that have been instrumental in getting an actual magazine created every month. The three of us are just some of the latest in a large number of people who have benefited and grown from taking part in making this publication.

We are so excited to be contributing to The Magdalen alongside a fantastic team of designers, writers, and editors. We very much look forward to you joining us on our year as your new Creative Team.

For now, we hope you enjoy our first issue!

Olivia Sharkey Iona Sorbie Molly Porteous Creative Directors

BIG

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The

Charity Ceilidh With MSF, Fuze Beyond Borders and Marrow Dundee

Bonar Hall Thursday of 29th March from 7pm University Dundee

Bonar Hall @ the University of Dundee

Thursday 29th March Tickets £15 7 O’clock PM(including tasty Scottish buffet!)

Tickets £15 Tasty Scottish buffet included!

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Mila Georgieva SENIOR DEPUTY EDITOR IN CHIEF

David White OPERATIONS MANAGER

Ellie Biggs DEPUTY EDITORS

Murray Glen James Russell ART & ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS

Liam Biddle Rebecca Reid COMMUNITY EDITORS

Alastair Letch Taylor Petrie CREATIVE WRITING EDITOR

Becca Wilson CURRENT AFFAIRS EDITOR

Calumn Wilson FASHION EDITORS

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Rachel Cairns Emily Fletcher INTERNATIONAL EDITOR

Shanley McConnell LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Malcolm Kyeyune MUSIC EDITOR

David White OPINION EDITOR

Ellie Biggs SCIENCE EDITOR

Alex McCraw COPY EDITORS

Catriona Leslie Dervla McCormick Paula Lyttle Stephanie Smith

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

Iona Sorbie Molly Porteous Olivia Sharkey DESIGNERS AND ILLUSTRATORS

Anna Macwhirter-Harley Claire Pollock Conor McBay Detta Carfrae Duncan Adams Eilidh Ferguson Eilidh Shedden Fabio Maragno Graeme Robertson Iona Sorbie Lauris Virtigs Melissa Cocker Molly Porteous Rachael Hastie Shannon Graham Zara Elmi PHOTOGRAPHY MANAGER

Nicole Cumming PHOTOGRAPHERS

Arjun Kalsi Bruce Duncan Daisy McConville DUBG Society Georgia Bayne Fabio Maragno Nicole Cumming UDI Society COVER PICTURES

Iona Sorbie Olivia Sharkey

08 12 14 15 17 18 20

28 30 32 34 36 39 40

50 52 56 58 60 62 64 66

Tomorrow Airport Feeling Goodbye Agreeable ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Two Hour Film Dilemma Time’s Up COMMUNITY

The Fish People Introducing DUAP Vegan Dundee: Marwick’s CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Politics of Fabric Descent into Dictatorship FASHION

Protest in Fashion A Style Renewal INTERNATIONAL

Barista and Bants With the Bulgarian Society Namaste Proud of My Country LIFESTYLE

Veganuary How Do You Survive St Patrick’s Day? Here’s to Us DUPS Photography Competition - Winner MUSIC

Strange Australians Popular Culture OPINIONS

Own Your New Year’s Resolutions Valuing Vestiges SCIENCE

Flares to Messenger to Avatars DUPS Photography Competition - Runner up A Brighter Future for ADPKD

PUBLISHED BY

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The Magazine Printing Co. www.magprint.co.uk mpc@magprint.co.uk

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CREATIVE WRITING

CONTENTS

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Feature - Magdalen Magazine 10th Birthday Party

MAGDALEN

MAGAZINE’S

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10th Birthday Party!

FEATURE

Performance by Lewis Kennedy, Station Manager at JAM

H

appy 10th birthday, Magdalen! It’s inspiring to see how far the magazine has come: from a small team, to a much larger (but equally passionate) group of over 40 contributors per issue, the Magdalen has grown with time and matured with every Editor - all whilst being guided by the support of each year’s team and the contributions from the readers.

Celebrating with us on the night was Lauren Bennie, the first Editor in Chief, and Rebecca Baird, last year’s Editor. We also had messages through from Dominic Younger (Editor 2014/15) and others who couldn’t join us, sending lots of love and praise for the last decade. With such fond memories, everyone had stories to share: advising us to never turn down opportunities and to continue in our strong traditions, encouraging us to follow our individual paths to success.

So thank you, to the previous and current teams for all your hard work, the designers who make the magazine so beautiful, The Magazine Printing Company for publishing our magazine every month and letting our work come to life, and to Marwick’s for our cake on the night! A thank you to our readers, friends, and contributors; the Exec and DUSA for supporting this magazine through the years. And last but certainly not least, thank you to my colleagues and friends, the outlet managers this year: David, Scott, and Lewis, for being so amazing - you make me love what we do here at DUSA Media.

Mila Georgieva Photography by Bruce Duncan

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Guests and contributors of the Magdalen, with our Photography Manager, Nicole

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Fabio Maragno (Creative Director, 2017), Olivia Sharkey, Iona Sorbie and Molly Porteous (Creative Directors 2018)

The first ever Editor In Chief, Lauren Bennie, giving her speech about an unreleased Magdalen issue

Murray Glen (Deputy Editor), David White (Senior Deputy Editor in Chief), Ellie Biggs (Operations Manager), Mila Georgieva (Editor in Chief) and James Russell (Deputy Editor)

NEW VOICES IN HUMANITIES Unᴅᴇrgrᴀᴅᴜᴀᴛᴇ Cᴏnfᴇrᴇnᴄᴇ / 24 & 25 Mᴀrᴄh 2018

Join us again this year for the second Humanities Undergraduate Conference!

HumCon Dundee is back for the second time with the new theme of “New Voices in Humanities”.

Come along for a weekend full of interesting talks by undergraduate students from universities across Scotland as well as a keynote speech by Christine Battersby, the Reader Emerita in Philosophy and Associate Fellow of the Centre for Philosophy, Literature and the Arts at the University of Warwick.

Additionally, we are hosting a panel discussion including people from different areas of expertise as well as holding fascinating workshops co-ordinated by Dundee’s humanities students and staff.

Join us and let’s make our voices heard!

humcondundee.co.uk humcon@dundee.ac.uk fb.me/dundeehumsoc uodhumcon

TOMORROW

12

M Akkad

Photography by Fabio Maragno

It felt too slow, I began to jog. No, I ran, with all my might. It was like when I was a child, waiting for my parents to come through the airport gates, and as soon they came into vision, I’d break into the fastest sprint that I could muster.

The mirage cracked like glass and dissipated into the void. It was gone. Well, except for the tears. They remained. They always did. My open eyes registered the wall that my bed was attached to. Its pale colours contrasted how I felt within. The image, like many others my mind often created, left me dull and empty.

It wasn’t even a memory. A sigh came through me as I lay on my side. “Back at it again huh?”

The man lay in the opposite position, his back to me.

We’ve done this many times before.

“I just wish I knew why you still care. Why do you still give a damn?”

I didn’t know either. “Just let it fucking go already, it’s been too long…”. And it had been. Hell, it’s been so long I can’t even remember what she sounds like.

She never should have meant this much either. All to whom I’d confided in seemed confused as to why I still cared. Why I still loved, but I could never explain. I can barely understand it myself. Maybe it’s a psychological thing.

If only that voice ever helped. Then again, it isn’t like it matters that much. I’ll be alright, I’ve always been alright. Tomorrow will come, and it’ll take me away.

It’ll make me worry about the things that do have meaning. It mattered little that she’d crept up on me again. Nor did it matter that she will, most likely, never leave. “Aye, it does not. It never will, lad.”

Another tear came. That one clearly pissed him off because he got off the bed and dragged me up with him. “Ah for the love all that is good, enough is enough!” My gaze embraced the floor beneath and it triggered him further, so he shook me until my head shot up, shoulders straightened, and grief turned into frustration. His eyes burned with pride.

“She let you go with no regard. It’s about time you do the same.” He was right. It felt as if she had left as soon as the one reason for her to stay had ceased. “She never gave two shits about you, and you know it”. She never did…yet I can’t bring myself to hate her. Even if it was in pity, she still showed me kindness nonetheless. She’ll always be a good person, one deserving of happiness, in my eyes.

I slouched down a little, but the man shook me again.

“No, because even if you did matter, even just a little, she would’ve at least said goodbye.” Aye. She would’ve found the decency to let me know. One moment she was there and then she was not. Gone.

I stood tall again. He looked into my eyes and asked, “Who are you?”

“I am the God, the universe, the one that lies within.”

Satisfied, the man finally nodded, then dissipated into nothing, revealing the mirror behind him. I lay back on my bed and closed my eyes. I’ve been through this many times before, but it’s alright. For this time, tomorrow will be different. Tomorrow.

Tomorrow will be new.

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Now, she met my eagerness and we embraced halfway.

But I couldn’t shake of that damned feeling. Because all that I could think off while holding her tightly in my arms was how wonderful it would be for that moment to be a reality.

“Or maybe you’re just being naive and stupid. Oh, wait that’s just you being you.”

CREATIVE WRITING

A

few tears slid down my face. She stared back at me with equally wet eyes. My heart raced with time, begging me to break free from the defence mechanisms that chained me still to the ground. I was afraid of hurting again and logic implored that I see how right it was to simply walk away. Yet I was far too weak to ever let go. The chains snapped, and I took my steps forward.

Everything here cares about people less than about planes.

The rattling letters on those common screens make no excuses, devoid of reasoning, they’re bringing us to terms and terminals STATUS: DELAYED.

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My bags are tagged, I head towards the useless security control. I’m adding to the queue with the vague feeling that there must be worse days for travelling. None come to mind.

Impatient calls force passengers in line, some are afraid that their name has made the no-flight list — the speakers play a music of some kind.

Next to the date, my destination lurks on the creased boarding card.

I am admitted to the gate. The turnstile clicks and stews in its finality.

STATUS: BOARDING. The runways treat the planes like family; dull and hard.

Last night, one of its children crashed. That made for headlines and a crude fatality.

The scanners chew on passport pages, the gangway looms and beckons me. I’m furiously ready.

I turn around to catch a last glimpse of goodbye — STATUS: CLOSED. The engines stare at men in neon jackets, breathing fuel fumes, the asphalt glimmers with black puddles, an unsteady breeze tries to overthrow us. A child says the turbines look like the underside of mushrooms and cuddles a threadbare teddy.

At last we pierce the skies with our overcrowded spike, Now, given time to tend to thoughts neglected, I lean back in my well-travelled seat and, less than half-hearted, listen to the known procedures: “Turbulence expected” — the crew instructs us what to do when in distress.

I feel relief at having finally departed.

And have I missed you? Yes. Fuck yes.

Airport Feeling

I arrived a little late for my departure. I dragged my bags on tired shoulders through the morning mist into these polished halls at quarter after nine.

My first glance went, as always, to the ceiling where foggy blues clung to repellent panes.

Outside forgotten pride fringed from some ragged flags, I found one more tricoloured country to be mine.

Marie-Bernadette Rollins

Goodbye.

You traded in your northern lakes with silver edges and emerald woods whose pines grow sugar cone, where wind chimes tingle in autumnal tinges For a country with square gardens and stark hedges whose language you compared to a trombone, a place where kindness has been slipping from its hinges – I asked you how you felt, you said, “alone”.

We surged inseparably, sea and common salt.

But then you left, felt guilty, half-returned and that we lost at last is no one’s fault.

We knew that distance would catch up with us one day, love was a bullet haze: not both of us got through that.

You apologized for never having learned my ways and wonders. Somebody said you cast me in harm’s way – You didn’t do that. You would never do that.

We have stood at airport gates so often that one time had to be the last.

It turns out repetition doesn’t soften the chorus of goodbyes we’ve had to sing, But I let go last night, so don’t hold fast.

Your finger trembles with the absence of a ring.

A single wingstroke carries you away. And I remain.

Atlantic waves will crash between us day and night for years to come. We tried hard to delay that.

We had our winning streak, let’s not complain …but heavy hearts are destined to outweigh that.

Safe travels, Baby. Have a pleasant flight.

It will get better. Just right now it’s tough: luck is a loan, and all of us repay that.

If someone tells you I found you not good enough – I didn’t say that. I would never say that.

Marie-Bernadette Rollins

CREATIVE WRITING

That you believed me, that you saw me, that we met: these things seem rare to me.

That you have followed me from maple vastnesses to towns of stone: I won’t forget.

I still insist that we can be anything we dare to be, I also know that you, for me, renounced the throne.

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Agreeable

How dare we have our own opinions and passions, eccentricities and dreams?

A toast to the agreeable ones Who shut their mouths and nod in deaf compliance Who wish they could contend Lying through their teeth for the creed of pleasantries.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CREATIVE WRITING

A toast to the ones with heavy tongues.

Who in their minds build mansions, spitting only dust Who fold themselves in voice and stature And word and action with doubt around their throats.

How dare we do anything but purse our lips and smile and be agreeable?

We are sick of being agreeable.

The storms that hide at sea are not renowned It is the ones that make land fall and uproot the trees That are deigned a name.

Rebecca Brown

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Let this be our resolution: Sit not with pleasantly clasped hands With a pleasant smile In pleasant silence Think not “what should I say” But “what shall I say”.

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‘. . . but wait . . . it’s over two hours long and, for some reason, that sets off alarm bells.’

I am certainly guilty of this, and let’s be honest, you probably are too at one point or another. That extra twenty minutes makes a difference – pushing a film from one hour forty to two hours, is annoyingly offputting to a lot of viewers. In most cases, because it’s more cinema than flick.

‘As a viewer, you’re actually being asked to engage, and sometimes, understandably, you want to stick a film on and disengage for the most part.’

Longer films are more likely to have more substance.

It’s often that when a director is let to run free - think Tarantino, Spielberg, or the Coen Brothers - that a film will be longer than two hours because the direction is packed with a specific message or theme which is unravelled and displayed through different techniques and details. Whereas, a lot of big budget blockbusters (where a director is drafted into a project rather than following their own idea), the studio, or some such, limits them and cuts things to appeal to a larger, more generalised audience.

For a long time one hour and forty minutes was, and to a lot of viewers still remains, the ideal film length, and for the most part it’s usually true. But when you sit through almost three hours of Transformers: The Last Knight and mourn the waste of time you handed to Michael ‘Bayhem,’ a long running time almost incites fear. If a long running time leaves you with doubts, the real question is whether or not the narrative is for you. You can’t pick up a book with a nice cover and absolutely guarantee you’ll enjoy it, but you can put it down after a chapter or two. With film, you’re at least half an hour in before any real doubts start to arise, and you realise you haven’t heard of the creators, you don’t like the way they tell the story but you’ve committed, so I guess another couple of hours of regret are justified?

‘Next time you’re standing at the foot of the mountain that is the two-hour film dilemma, roll the dice, show some faith, and stick your phone on silent’ (as if most of us don’t have it permanently on silent anyway) but you know what I mean. Commitment is hard, but trust the process and you’ll likely be thankful for it, and may find a new favourite film or cult classic whose cult you’ll finally join. Worst case scenario, you switch-off for a couple of hours and have something to laugh at, or spur talking points for you and your fellow mountain climbers.

Liam Biddle

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Do you have the time? Can you actually commit to this? If you’re with someone, is there more chance they’ll zone out and scroll through social media midfilm? The two-hour film panic is a bit of a parasite, especially if you’re not on your own. Any sign of doubt and it’s done. That idea is out the window.

There’s no hope for it. Let’s keep scrolling for another half-hour and then decide on something you’ve all seen before and trust – something you can watch with detachment.

I’m not saying a film less than two hours can’t be good, not even a little, a shorter film can have just as much impact as a three-hour behemoth. It’s films being tailored to the masses instead of an individual’s idea being completely supported by a studio and marketing team that I question. Thankfully we’re seeing more big studios put faith in their directors, consider Marvel Studios allowing Ryan Coogler to very swiftly address the origin story in Black Panther (as he revealed in an interview) to get right into the new storyline. Don’t get me wrong, I love comic books and character origin stories, but seeing something brand new is always exciting.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

W

e’ve all been there, you’re all ready to start sifting through Netflix with your friends or partner when the dreaded ‘so, what do you wanna watch?’ question makes its inevitable return. You’re left uncertain and wondering what the others around you fancy. Is there a compromise or something everyone is feeling? You stumble across a Django Unchained or Castaway and think ‘AHA! I’ve been meaning to watch this’ or one of your group does and the rest follow suit. You’ve heard all good things so it just makes sense,

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TIME’S UP F

or most, the new year brought with it the optimism of New Year’s Resolutions, which were only to be cast aside at 12.01am in favour of another glass of champagne. But for some, the 1st of January symbolised the freshest of starts with the founding of the Time’s Up movement.

In the small hours of New Year’s Day, as many New Year revellers nursed diabolical hangovers – and many others partied on – the latest issue of The New York Times hit the newsstands and social media was flooded with the biggest news story of 2018 so far.

Coinciding with the launch of timesupnow.com, t he world-renowned newspaper published an article announcing Time’s Up. The article included a full-page open letter which begins ‘Dear Sisters,’ and is signed by hundreds of supporters from the entertainment industries.

The movement seeks to address and fight the ubiquitous problem of sexual harassment.

The movements began in response to, and solidarity with #MeToo, a hashtag created by civil rights activist Tarana Burke which encourages victims to speak up regarding their own experiences of sexual assault and harassment. Although the movement seeks to raise awareness of these issues in any workplace situation, many allegations were raised in the entertainment industries, most notably in film and TV.

But at what point did hushed rumours over martinis at glamorous Hollywood parties become an outright political movement? Towards the latter half of last year Harvey Weintein was expelled from the Academy following accusations of sexual misconduct. Alyssa Milano’s adoption of the ‘Me Too’ hashtag brought allegations to an ugly head and triggered the Weinstein Ripple Effect of challenging powerful individuals in numerous industries. 2017 became the year that sexual misconduct could finally be enough to get many people dismissed from their jobs.

And according to USA Today, since the 5th of October, 149 high profile individuals including those in government, sports, film and tech have been accused of sexual misconduct, many resulting in resignation or dismissal.

Undoubtedly, the accusation of Miramax founder Harvey Weinstein seemed to be the catalyst for the uprising of such a politically charged movement, but sexual harassment isn’t limited to the entertainment industries. Me Too has demonstrated the underlying systematic problem that lurks at the very heart of many industries when those in power begin to abuse their authority.

Time’s Up organised a quiet but influential protest at the Golden Globe Awards when A-listers arrived in black couture and #MeToo pins in solidarity.

ARTS & ENERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

‘PERHAPS WE CAN LOOK AT #METOO AND TIME’S UP AS MOVEMENTS TOWARDS A WORLD IN WHICH NO ONE SHOULD BE SILENCED ABOUT SOCIAL INJUSTICE.’ Oprah’s powerful and rousing speech, worthy of a standing ovation, directly addressed the issues of corruption and injustice that currently plague the press. The speech resonated with viewers across the globe. Inspired by her call for justice and words of hope for a brighter and more transparent future, they took to Twitter to create the trending hashtag

#OprahForPresident. After such a humble, socially relevant and emotional speech, the popularity of this hashtag isn’t at all surprising (particularly in light of the recent Girther movement conspiracies).

The event itself seemed to be weighted with much more political significance than Globes of previous years, with the 75th Golden Globes Awards attended by a significant number of activists, invited as guests by many actors including Emma Stone.

But there have been plenty more events in the entertainment industry to keep Time’s Up afloat.

The Sundance Film Festival, which took place in January, included a women’s rally led by feminist lawyer, Gloria Allred. After being involved with the festival since its inception, Weinstein’s seat was symbolically empty for the first time ever, as women’s voices in the industry became the central focus of this year’s festival.

Perhaps we can look at #MeToo and Time’s Up as movements towards a world in which no one should be silenced about social injustice, a world in which everyone has the ability to speak up and be heard.

In a rapidly changing and uncertain world, we can seek comfort in the solidarity of Time’s Up.

Rebecca Reid

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Many celebs, including Oprah, dressed head to toe in noir to harness the visual impact and memorable power of fashion to communicate a message and political statement without the need for a politically charged speech. And they weren’t alone–most spectators in the audience wore black, with many of the actors’ acceptance speeches directly mentioning issues related to the #MeToo and Time’s Up movements.

e h T

le

Peop

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The Community Between the Swimming Lanes

A

s a Community Learning and Development student, I spend most of my time contemplating how socio-political factors influence the formation and development of a community. How the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation is a relevant depiction of Scottish communities or how emancipatory action can occur genuinely throughout informal education. A tight pair of speedo trunks (fortunately not adorned by me) and over a million gallons of water rarely fit in to the profiling of complex community needs. Except in this instance, as I will attempt to present a critique of how we as a population form social bonds with those who frequent swimming pools and how we benefit from the community of swimmers.

Now, I wouldn’t expect everyone who reads this to swim locally in Dundee. I - as I write this in a bunker in Leith - cannot say the same right now. But if you have ventured to the local baths over the last few years, then it is highly probable that you have seen me randomly floundering in the water as I attempt to perform the front crawl. Before being overtaken by the speedo-torpedo, who I am convinced is part fish.

Aside from personally insisting on restricting the fishpeople to the fast lane, there are moments I find myself

immersed within an environment where people think of the water as their habitat. I even know of people who fear open bodies of water, yet still find the side of a pool to be welcoming. Even the unique language of the poolside is catered around this care for others.

“Are you going next?” is a common phrase used in the water during the days where it is overwhelmingly busy. This proposition is often a way of indicating your interest in the pattern in which you swim and thus opens up a dialogue denoting the importance of who takes the lead. Usually this is said to prevent harm, yet can start a good conversation (in my case usually conveying how hard it is to keep up with others).

Or how about when you hear in the sauna “Do you mind if I turn the heat up?”

This is a dangerous question that should be approached responsibly. Failure to comprehend the intensity of the incoming heat, could lead to an overwhelming feeling and sudden faintness. Many a time I have been caught out by folk for chatting too long in the hot wooden sweatbox that is a sauna. “I’m sorry, but I am ok thanks” is often a safe response - to be contested five minutes later by someone who instinctively just dumps a whole bucket of water on the steamer.

COMMUNITY

It seems very unusual from a sociological perspective doesn’t it? To think that for the most part of poolside etiquette, people are so sociable while dressed so strangely. Simply put, in any other circumstance would it not be weird to be dressed in swimming trunks or a one piece?

The fact that is an apparent normality is rather astonishing, given how uncomfortable folk may feel (including myself) to be dressed so scantily around others. This feeling intensifies when one enters a changing room, which are notorious for people being

caught out by the overconfident individuals who do not see the big deal about being stark naked. Heck, there is something great to admire in this indifference which people have adapted to.

Ultimately though, the lifeguards and staff deserve credit for being gatekeepers within this community.

Every time I go, there is always a member of staff there to chat to. Even briefly, it means a lot to have someone watching out for you. Literally.

I realise though that I am doing this topic an injustice, for I have not touched on the psychology of swimming, the history of swimming pools, matters of geographical difference or how pools try to be inclusive? To note that these are well explored themes within research, prose, and media is to note the great amount of complexity to swimming pools. Clearly, there is a lot more beneath the surface than one might assume…

Alastair Letch

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I have noticed that the community is most apparent within the sauna, though perhaps influenced most by the cooldown effect and subsequent rush of endorphins. I’ve spoken to all sorts of people while spending just five minutes or so relaxing, ranging from older generations discussing historical turning points such as “The Cave” by Plato or the life of Trotsky (to which I learned that ‘che’ means ‘yeah mate’, hence why I perceive Che Guevara being very bro-like) to discussing the deep intricacies of student living. I feel a sense of regret for not getting the chance to say thank you - until now - for the wonderful advice I have received… while I was sweating intensely, most likely trying to collect myself from exhaustion.

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Introducing DUAP: DUNDEE UNIVERSITY AGAINST POVERTY There is much to be proud of in Dundee. It is the UK’s only UNESCO City of Design; other winners include Helsinki and Turin. Dundee is a city of education: it has a higher proportion of university students than any town in Europe, with the exception of Heidelberg. In 2015, GQ magazine named Dundee the ‘Coolest Little City in Britain’; this year Dundee ranked number five on The Wall Street Journal’s list of ‘Worldwide Hot Destinations’.

But Dundee also has the second highest rate of child poverty in Scotland – approximately every fourth child in the city now lives below the poverty line. In the East End this figure rises to more than one in every three.

Dundee City has one of the lowest rates of employment of any Scottish local authority. Its rate of homelessness is one of the highest: last year there were roughly 100 people a month presenting as homeless - several of them were victims of domestic abuse with nowhere left to turn. These inequalities are not always obvious from the small bubble we live in as students, but for this deprivation to exist unchecked in a city of education, a city that has aspired to and has attained a level of culture, is plainly unjust.

Dundee University Against Poverty (DUAP) formed as a result of the 2017 Global Health Challenge: an initiative run by the University, seeking to involve students in developing genuine solutions to inequality.

We were awarded the title of “Most Promising Idea,” and from there our Society is now becoming a reality.

There are several charities in Dundee already helping those for whom poverty is not a statistic but an everyday reality. The aim of Dundee University Against Poverty is to support charities in the surrounding area with volunteers, funding, and the resources they so badly need; to raise awareness of poverty in the local area and to provide a point of entry for students who want to join the active, urgent fight against poverty, and be recognised for their contribution to this fight.

Fiona Mansfield, Vice President of DUAP Join us for the official DUAP launch event on March 7th.

Follow us on Facebook : DUAP

DUSA BELIEVES THE FOLLOWING BEHAVIOURS ARE UNACCEPTABLE...

COMMUNITY

UNWANTED SEXUAL COMMENTS, INCLUDING COMMENTS ON AN INDIVIDUAL’S BODY OR PRIVATE LIFE COMMENTS DEEMED AS RACIST, RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION, SEXIST, HOMOPHOBIC, XENOPHOBIC, TRANSPHOBIC AND DISABLIST UNWELCOME SEXUAL INVITATIONS, INNUENDOS (SEXUAL SUGGESTIONS), AND OFFENSIVE GESTURES

GROPING, PINCHING OR SMACKING SOMEONE’S BODY MOVING OR GRABBING SOMEONE’S CLOTHES WITHOUT CONSENT EXPOSURE OF SEXUAL ORGANS ANY CONDUCT WHICH INTIMIDATES, DEGRADES, HUMILIATES OR VIOLATES AN INDIVIDUAL’S DIGNITY OBJECTIFICATION, FETISHISATION AND STEREOTYPING OF INDIVIDUALS BASED ON THEIR GENDER OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION LEADS TO A CULTURE OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT, SEXUAL DISCRIMINATION AND ITS NORMALISATION.

Dundee University Students Association (DUSA) Registered Scottish Charity No. SCO16047

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WOLF WHISTLING, CATCALLING, OR OFFENSIVE SEXUAL NOISES

F R I D A Y

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M A R C H

DUNDEE fb.com/DistortedDundee

@ G en er a lDis t o r t

Vegan Dundee: Marwick’s COMMUNITY

‘Independent, Ethical and Sustainable’ This is how the Marwick’s describe themselves.

This local, family-owned takeaway shops and offers an ethical option for the discerning Dundonian.

This includes the costly choice to use biodegradable take-away boxes and cutlery, to the eco-friendly cleaning products that wash the surfaces. Tucked away on Union Street, it is a bit of a secret relying on word of mouth.

They hold a very special place in the history of vegan Dundee, as the first 100% vegan food establishment.

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W

hile attending an event that the Marwick’s team was catering, my carnivorous companion asked if there would be any options for meat eaters and was heartbroken to find out there weren’t. By the end of the night, and her third plate, she stated “I’ve been converted!” The food is flavoursome and nutritious and can be catered to your needs. But the food alone isn’t the only reason to pay a visit to the shop.

Making the change at the beginning of January, the shop has found a new community surrounding their ethical and vegan ways.

As for what you can eat? There are soups, baked potatoes, sandwiches, breakfast food and ratatouille to name a few; all of which can be customized with as many veggies, oils and sauces that your heart desires.

Marwick’s is the creation of Mike & Lois Marwick who opened with the idea of selling street food inspired dishes and offering a few tasty vegan options and soon realized the demand for varied and delicious plant-based meals. When chatting with Lois she commented “It’s our customers that are shaping the business”. This couldn’t be more obvious from the variety and quality of food.

Currently they fill a small but powerful niche for plantbased food on the go. Offering divine tray bakes and what might be Dundee’s first and only vegan hot breakfast. There is a growing awareness of our impact on the planet. There is a movement into a post-consumer society and establishments like Marwick’s are the future.

James Russell

The Politics of Fabric

I 28

n recent weeks, unionists and nationalists both North and South of the Scottish border have been embroiled in a debate reminiscent in sentiment to the worst notions of the Irish troubles.

It all began with reports from The Telegraph and Daily Mail which suggested a new Scottish government directorate would mean that the Scottish Saltire would fly alone over Holyrood on official occasions.

Previously, the Union Flag would have flown alongside the Saltire.

In the hours after these stories were printed, senior Conservative MPs made it known that they viewed this as an aggressive political action. Backbench lightening rod Jacob Rees-Mogg said: “this decision smacks of small mindedness and is an affront to the majority of Scots who voted to remain within the UK”.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland, quickly responded to say that in actuality there had been no change to policy. She tweeted: “It has been the practice to fly the Lion Rampant from government buildings on Royal occasions since 2010. There has been no change in policy or practice since then.”

The truth according to the evidence available is that the Scottish Civil Service updated the published guidance for which flags fly from which buildings and when (as Ms Sturgeon confirmed in a Tweet) and politics dictated that a debate ensue.

However, the fact that the aforementioned newspapers ran headlines attacking Ms Sturgeon and instantly referred to the move as a nationalist policy, despite it coming around from the non-partisan Civil Service shows that indyref and talk of its resurrection has primed well-rehearsed and knee-jerk reactions from its opponents. Put simply, we appear to be approaching a stage in Scottish politics where the politics of the flag could become a legitimate platform. This is where the Northern Irish example comes in, whether a building flies the Union Flag or the Irish Tricolour can lead to it being viewed as legitimate or illegitimate in the eyes of some sections of society. If we begin to apply the same political logic to Holyrood, how long will it be before the 55% of people who voted in favour of unionism begin to see Holyrood as illegitimate?

It has been the practice to fly the Lion Rampant from government buildings on Royal occasions since 2010. @NicolaSturgeon

Recently in the United States, we have seen how powerful a flag can be thanks to the “take a knee” campaign against racial inequality. This being said, with something as complex and nuanced as Scottish nationalism and its relationship with Unionism, turning a flagpole into a maypole is seen by many as a dangerous move. I reached out to see what the student branch of the SNP thought of the issue.

Ross Shepherd, President of DUSNA said: “Overall, I think the issue has been totally blown out of proportion. The amendments, as far as I’m aware, will only take place on royal occasions and this has been the norm for some years and so no real change”.

All in all, it appears that the SNP are intending to keep out of the constitutional nationalism questions surrounding symbolic items such as flags. The rapid reaction along hard ideological lines by the government does confirm that they are prepared to meet a resurgence in nationalist sentiments more suited to a rallying of the 55% than during the first referendum. Whereas in 2014 they were forced to adhere to debates on the “issues”, they can now rely on the emotional response which was triggered by recent developments.

Murray Glen

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Equally troubling is the readiness of senior Conservatives to use the outcome of the 2014 referendum as justification for any number of pro-unionist statements. Ian Duncan Smith said on the flag argument that it was: “insulting to Scottish people to pretend that somehow Scotland is not within the UK” despite that fact that there was never any mention of this being a political move.

Descent into Dictatorship: 30 30

A Turkish Story

O

nce a promising contender for membership of the European Union, the prospect of what would be the EU’s only predominantly Islamic country ascending to the organisation seems further than ever before. This is in part due to the authoritarian policies that have gained momentum in recent years, supressing basic freedoms and pushing Turkey further and further away from its EU contemporary. Countries who once saw it as a promising example of how Islam and democracy could be successfully combined.

Its status as a relatively stable country in an otherwise volatile and authoritarian region led many to believe that Turkey would be a beacon, an example in which to follow. However, recent regressive policies have shown that the democratic values which Turkey once strived to uphold have been lost and it finds itself hurtling towards a path of political exclusion from its European neighbours and an increasingly suppressive domestic political structure. All of which had swiftly manifested under the control of long term president, Recep Tayyip ErdoÄ&#x;an. And although Turkey has never been a perfect example of democracy having been blighted with numerous coups and instability, the initiatives driven by the Erdogan regime have made the prospect intangible and its likelihood delayed for decades. But to come to

the conclusion as to how Turkey came to this point we must first look at its history.

The modern state was founded following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in the First World War, where the Sultanate was abolished and a democracy was established in what is now called the Republic of Turkey. The founding ideology of this new state was called Kemalism, which encompassed three main features - secularism, the adoption of western democratic values and modernisation. As mentioned before, Turkish democracy has often been plighted by coups, however these coups are uniquely Turkish and have not necessarily occurred to assure the domination of the military forces behind them, generally occurring in response to authoritarian actions of the government.

For example, in 1961, the coup was relatively bloodless, removed a government increasingly emulating soviet repressive measures, and installed another democratically elected government not one month after. The 1971 coup occurred in response to an increasingly dangerous and volatile domestic situation, where the military emerged to restore order to a country in the midst of daily terror for guerrilla groups and general social unrest. The 1980 coup followed this pattern where the military invoked the Kemalist

tradition of state secularism and in the unity of the nation, which had already justified the precedent coups, and presented themselves as opposed to communism, fascism, separatism and religious sectarianism. An act that was again supported by the majority of the population.

Calumn Wilson 31 31

This propensity for the military to subvert democratically elected governments for the protection of the structure of the state and its founding promotion of rights and freedoms is both chaotic and calming.

Inadvertently setting the stage for the current President to accumulate more and more power while decrying an act that is generally thought of as against the interest of democracy. This occurred in 2016 when the President used a coup to strengthen his base whilst imprisoning more journalists than any other nation on the planet. Other controversies have arisen due to his building of a £385 million palace complex with over 1,000 rooms, the arrest and firing of over

One instance of Turkey’s increasing wedge between itself, Europe and the wider West, is its action in Syria, where it is actively defying US policy by supporting certain rebel groups. In addition to this Turkey recently threatened a confrontation with the US if it did not support for Kurdish YPG fighters. This shows both the growing despotic nature of the situation but also a government that is open to threatening fellow NATO members if its views are not respected and followed. An action that will likely isolate Turkey more and slip more into the authoritarian attitude that has dominated politics in recent years under the tenure of Erdogan.

CURRENT AFFAIRS

‘Authoritarian policies supressing basic freedoms and pushing Turkey further and further away from its EU contemporary.’

100,000 people for supporting an opposition figure and his complete unacceptance of protests against this rule. This combined with a professed desire to be like Queen Elizabeth II, sees him aiming to reinvent the dictatorial structure of the Ottoman Empire. A process that will likely see him stray further from his EU neighbours and become more of a hindrance than a partner.

Protest in fashion 32

January… February… March, March, March: Fashion and Protest.

revolutionaries desired a national costume which would identify the ordinary republican, broadcast the values of La République Française, and simultaneously protest against all those nations still bound up in the ‘chains of servitude’.

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If a picture paints a thousand words, clothes can fashion a manifesto, and with British Vogue last month making the claim that clothes haven’t been worn so subversively since the youth uprising of 1968, it’s time to listen to what fashion is saying.

Protest in fashion is hardly a new phenomenon; for centuries, movements and ideologies have harnessed the visual power of clothing to convey their messages and identities. Archaeologists and historians have found evidence of clothing being used as an ideological marker thousands of years ago, among rebel militias in the Ancient Roman Middle-East; and in Paris, 1794, French Revolutionaries were considering the clothing of the newly liberated French people as a building block of their new nation. While it is impossible to identify the exact motivations of the ancient rebels, the thoughts of the French Revolutionary are recorded for us in the contemporary newspaper, La Décade Philosophique, Littéraire et Politique, providing fascinating, early evidence of a conscious and deliberate attempt to fashion a new, social order through clothes.

The article puts forward the case for a new national costume; the French Citizen is different now, it claims, and surely their clothes must proclaim this and distinguish them from the ‘nationals of countries still stigmatized bythe chains of servitude’. Thus, the

Clearly however, the fashions and clothes of protest-movements remain most seductive when they retain some aura of the protest As a form of visual communication then, the French Revolutionaries identified the potential of clothing to separate and differentiate between people, yet their method was inevitably unsophisticated. The power of this new national costume could not but solely rely on comparison; only through its juxtaposition with the clothing of those not yet liberated would it truly fulfil its potential for protest. As the possibilities of visual culture and communication have increased throughout the centuries however, such direct contact has become less and less necessary for the ambitions of the revolutionary costume to be realised. As the ease and frequency with which we can disseminate images has increased exponentially over the last two centuries, clothes have become only more powerful as a tool of protest. Indeed we have seen not only an increase in the conscious utilisation of fashion by political and

OPINIONS FASHION

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Clothes have become only more powerful as a tool of protest.

Interestingly, such commercialisation of this social movement did not, as one might expect, damage or erase the original values which the fashion symbolised.

Indeed, the famous ‘buy the world a Coke’ commercial of 1971, capitalised on, not only the aesthetic of the hippie counter-culture, but the movement’s general sentiments; identifying that without its accompanying ideology, the visual became meaningless. By the same token, when Pepsi attempted to channel a similar zeitgeist with their now-infamous ‘Kylie Jenner’

advert of 2017, their erasing of the serious political sentiments of visually similar Women’s and Black Lives Matter Marches (not to mention placards bearing banal slogans, such as ‘join the conversation’) attracted universal scorn.

That’s not to say that the original symbolism of a certain trend or fashion can’t get lost somewhere along the trickle-down; the seemingly inexplicable return of the beret, for example, has been all over fashion magazines and blogs for months, yet the fact that the beret’s resurgence is owing to Beyoncé’s and Dior’s recent homages to the Black Panther movement, has largely been forgotten. Clearly however, the fashions and clothes of protest-movements remain most seductive when they retain some aura of the protest, the cause.

Why we find such visuals so seductive in the first place is less obvious, but as the possibility for the sharing and broadcasting of images increases in our socialmedia-saturated world, expect fashion to be become an increasingly powerful tool in the visual communication of protest-movements. As fashions have become ever-more varied, so have the possibilities for selfidentification, and given that the people who see our ‘outfits-of-the-day’ are no longer only those with whom we are in physical contact, but potentially thousands of followers on social media, it seems likely we may soon be wearing not only our tastes and personalities, but also our politics, on our sleeves.

Rachel Cairns

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social causes, but an ever-growing trickle-down of such images and trends into mainstream culture.

Therefore, while at the turn of the century, suffragettes took advantage of early photography by marching dressed in white to convey the dignity and purity of their cause (their luminous and almost angelic forms striking in early photographs), by the 1960s and 70s the clothing of protest movements were not only photographed, but commercialised. Thus, the hippie aesthetic of the time, which belonged to a counter-culture promoting peace, love and nuclear disarmament, found itself filtering into mainstream fashion around the world by means of a growing global media and youth culture.

A Style Renewal: 34

Finding a New Me Through Fashion When it comes to clothes, I often compare myself to those around me.

Or at least, I used to. There are so many amazing people whose style I adore, and sometimes then I would I look at my own wardrobe I would feel like there isn’t anything special about it. However, I’ve been so excited to put together new outfits recently - and it’s not because I’ve bought a whole new wardrobe. Honestly, I haven’t. It is because I feel like I’m finally coming into my own with my style and learning how to wear and pair both new additions and old favourites. Everyone’s style is changing all the time so I’m sure a year from now I’ll feel different, but I do think it is worth examining why I’ve started to feel this way, in the hopes of inspiring someone else.

I have always been an advocate of wearing whatever you want to wear, and I still am. But for the longest time, I dressed monochrome and pretty casually. While I will always choose comfort, it’s clear to me now that my “true self” (please ignore the cringe) cannot always be expressed in black and white. Recently I was chatting with a friend about our fashion choices and it made me think about my style evolution, but also on my fashion choices in general. We all evolve, and fashion is one of the ways that we show this to people. I think back on my style and I love the steps I have taken to now. I wear a hell of a lot more glitter

and sequins, I embrace colour - especially pink - in a way I never would have thought I’d wanted to, and I push the boundaries of what I think suits me. There are things I will never be comfortable wearing, but even shimmying into a mini skirt for the first time in years is a big step forward for me.

‘We all evolve, and fashion is one of the ways we show this.’

I remember days when I would state, “Oh I can’t wear red, I only look good in cool colours,” and chuckle a little. Who knew red would be one of my favourite colours to wear? Even a year ago I would probably never have the guts to wear a hot pink crushed velvet skirt, one of my favourite items in my wardrobe right now. Part of it is because yes, my tastes have simply changed, but what I think is more important is that I’m finally brave enough to wear something like it. There were times when I would cringe if I was wearing “too many” colours at once, and now I feel a bit strange if I don’t have any bright colours going on in my outfit.

I used to wear heeled boots every day at college because I felt so short without them, and now I practically live in trainers and flat boots because I just don’t care. It’s nice that I feel I don’t have to rely on heels anymore, and that when I wear them it’s because I simply want to.

FASHION

While this article was mostly a self-indulgent look at myself and my own style, hopefully it has made you think about your own. We are so lucky to have fashion blogs, Instagram, or magazines to inspire us to dress boldly - even if your bold is just trying a different shape of jeans. I suggest you think about what makes you happy to be dressed in, because I’m striving to do it now and the effect is so lovely, and so empowering.

Emily Fletcher

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I think the key to feeling more comfortable and confident in your style is to always be questioning why you are choosing to buy or wear something.

Every time I buy something now, I ask myself if it’s me. We all spend so much time asking ourselves how other people will view us in something we wear, but I’m happy to say I’m reaching that point where I don’t really care. I do want to be seen in my clothes - but I want people to look at me and think of my outfit as something wholly me, not something that they love because it’s completely trend-led or “normal”. For as long as I can remember I have looked at clothes and thought I couldn’t pull them off, but guys, it is so fun to try. And sometimes you’re right and you don’t suit those things, but that’s fine! You just send them back and look for something else.

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BANITSA AND BANTS WITH THE BULGARIAN SOCIETY

My dear readers, This month, I have the greatest privilege of introducing to you – from the other side of the first set of couches in Liar Bar – the President of the Bulgarian Society, Denitsa Hristova.

First of all, would you tell me about the Society? Като за начало, разкажи ми малко повече за „Българското общество“?

What does a normal ‘meet’ look like? Как протича обичайно една ваша среща?

This academic year, the society is interested in supporting charitable causes and pursuing new ideas.

The committee organises regular meetings for the members of the DUBGS. It’s brilliant because everyone gets involved in celebrating Bulgarian traditions, history and folklore. Our meetings are always accompanied by Bulgarian music and traditional, homemade pastries called ‘Banitsa’.

Do you find that everyone in the Society shares a similar idea of ‘home?’ Мислиш ли, че всички в „Българското общество“ споделят еднаква идея за това какво представява „домът“?

Even though we share the same nationality, every individual in the Society comes from a different background back in Bulgaria. Despite the fact that we are not from the city, nor are we the same age, the Society helps everyone keep and protect their favourite

Кажи ми за някои събития през 2017 година, които спомогнаха за сплотяването на членовете на обществото? Имаше ли такива, които значително помогнаха на обществото да се чувства част от шотландската/ британската култура?

2017 was a year full of new experiences. Inspired by the Scottish tradition of Hogmanay at the beginning of the year, we had our first Gaudie Night as a Society.

The turnout was amazing, and it strengthened new friendships. We also celebrated Bonfire Night with the International Society, which contributed to our relationship with other internationals and expanded our knowledge of British history. This past semester, we also hosted our first ‘Literature Reading’ event, which was one of the most successful events of the year. Many of our members shared their own work, and created a great atmosphere free of judgment.

‘It’s brilliant because everyone gets involved in celebrating Bulgarian traditions, history and folklore. Our meetings are always accompanied by Bulgarian music and traditional, homemade pastries called ‘Banitsa’ 2017 was a remarkable year, but I believe 2018 will be even better. As a Society, we are thrilled to represent our country on March 22nd during Global Week at the University, and we welcome all to join us for our Balkan Night later that evening. It will be a grand celebration to honour or national holiday, and will

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The Bulgarian Society at the University of Dundee was established eight years ago by Bulgarian students who wanted to create a friendly environment to share ideas and support each other in adapting to a new culture.

Currently, around thirty people actively participate in the organisation of the events.

What are some events that happened in 2017 that created a strong bond between members of the Society? Were there any events that enabled the Society to feel connected to the Scottish/British culture in a stronger way?

INTERNATIONAL

It was honestly such a joy to interview her on behalf of the Society. Her passion and enthusiasm for the Bulgarian Society is contagious, and I am so excited to share with you some of my favourite moments from our time spent together. So come sit beside us! Read on and find out more about how you can connect with this incredible Society.

Bulgarian traditions and folklore. Some miss the food, others, their family and friends. We all miss home in a different way, but we work hard to create a second home and family here in Dundee. Although we have different personalities, contributing to this Society unites us.

include traditional dances, music, and even dancers from our own country to participate. One of my favourite things about the upcoming Balkan Night is that the money is raised to support a charity here in the UK. It’ll be a wonderful way to support a good cause, but also enjoy a night filled with laughter, dancing, and great food.

Do you feel represented by the University of Dundee? Чувствате ли се представени от университета в Дънди?

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Yes! We’ve been so blessed to have good communication with the University and DUSA. We believe that our University and Student Association are doing a great job at representing us. The VPSA have always protected and respected our interested and requests as a Society.

How has your experience as an international student gone so far? Какви са впечатленията ти като чуждестранен студент до момента?

The truth is that I felt welcomed as soon as I arrived in Dundee. It was that feeling when you know that this is the right place for you. I’ve always been an adventurer, loving to travel, exploring, and learning about people and different cultures. When I came here, I met a lot of international people with the same mindset. The fact that we are all ready to take the opportunity of studying abroad and dealing with all the fears that come with living in a new environment, helps us understand each other even better.

‘It turns out that living in a smaller city is lovely! The community that Dundee creates is my favourite thing.’

What are some of your favourite things about living in Dundee? Кои са любимите ти преживявания от живота в Дънди?

Coming from the capital of Bulgaria where it is noisy and crowded, I worried that living in Dundee would be less entertaining and not fun at all. It turns out that living in a smaller city is lovely! The community that Dundee creates is my favourite thing.

What are a few things you miss from home? Кое е това, което ти липсва най-много от вкъщи?

My family. The more I live apart from them, the more I appreciate the time we spend together when I return on holidays. I also really miss the food. It might sound hilarious, but my suitcase is always full of Bulgarian cheese on return flights.

On a daily basis, do you listen to music and read books in your native language, or do you find that it is easier to focus solely on English while studying abroad in a predominately English-speaking country? Изцяло ли си фокусирана върху английския език, докато учиш в английско говоряща страна, или продължаваш да четеш и слушаш музика на български език?

I am a big fan of Bulgarian music and literature.

However, when I’m working on a university-related project, especially during exam season, I prefer everything around me to be in English. As an international student, I put so much effort in learning as many English words as possible that when I’m home on holiday, I often think of the English word instead of the Bulgarian. Sometimes, it’s a big tornado of words in my head.

Do you have any encouragements for fellow International and local students alike? Какво би посъветвала чуждестранните и местните студенти?

Never limit yourself, be curious, explore new countries, and engage with other cultures!

Shanley McConnell with Denitsa Hristova

INTERNATIONAL

Namaste Namaste, my friends!

I am absolutely delighted to introduce you to three beautiful, new friends of mine – Simran Chopra, the President of the Indian Society, and Event Managers, Saima Alam and Nitya Nair.

On behalf of the Indian Society at the University of Dundee, Simran, Saima, and Nitya shared with me some of the highlights from the previous semester as well as a few of the upcoming events planned for the new year. Read on to find out more about how you can join in on future celebrations!

‘Sometimes cultures and traditions from another country can seem so strange, so beautiful and so riveting.’

UDIS was founded in 2007 as a platform for Indian students to support one another, and share their culture with anyone interested. Over the course of last semester, the Society hosted over four major events, including hallmark events such as Bollywood Night and Diwali – the Festival of Lights. With paint and light and colours aglow, the latter has always met with success, and I really do believe it is because the Society itself is alight with the enthusiasm and thrill of its members.

‘We work with other Societies and organisations, on campus and beyond, to build a vibrant, cross-cultural relationship between international and local students.'

We aspire to create a home away from home, spreading and showcasing different aspects of our culture throughout the university. We work with other Societies and organisations, on campus and beyond, to build a vibrant, cross-cultural relationship between international and local students by constantly aspiring to make their University experience one of the best times of their lives. We understand that leaving home for a new country is quite a special and nerve-racking experience, and our aim is to make the transition easier for all students, showing them that it isn’t all bad being in a new place.

So to all of you, on behalf of myself and the Indian Society, we wish you the very best for the upcoming semester, and we welcome you to celebrate culture and community with us soon! We would love to meet you because if there’s one thing we learn at University, it is the value and thrill of a new friendship.

Shanley McConnell with Simran Chopra, Saima Alam, and Nitya Nair.

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It was the 15th of January, and we planned to meet at Liar Bar for a cup of coffee and an informal interview.

Sometimes cultures and traditions from another country can seem so strange, so beautiful and so riveting that students of all nationalities – foreigners and locals alike – begin to explore new ways of celebrating life around the world.

It was so lovely hearing about the Society not only from Simran, as a third year student, but also Saima and Nitya, both first years. It is so clear from their smiles and enthusiasm how much the Society means to all those who spend time in the presence of its members.

Of course, like all internationals and locals alike, Simran, Saima, and Nitya talked of missing home, family, food, and festivity, but it was wonderful to hear how the students here on campus have built a second home in the Indian Society.

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Proud Of My Country.

‘I was impressed by the overwhelming sense of pride and respect in the answers I received from other international students.’

It is 2018 and we live in an English-speaking world.

On one hand, that means that if you know how to speak that language, you’re pretty much guaranteed the ability to communicate anywhere you go. But, on the other hand, it also means – and you might not have stopped to think about this – that, in smaller countries, the norm is adjusting to tourists. For instance, when applying for a simple job – say, a cashier – in a nonEnglish speaking country, basic knowledge of English and usually at least one another language is a standard requirement. As for the representation of such a country in a predominately English-speaking world, that, of course, varies depending upon the size and international importance of these individual countries.

However, I often get the impression that the UK is not particularly keen on incorporating other languages into its daily life.

Is it even important? I will be the first to admit I had never really thought much about it.

This is just the way it is, right? But what about my culture? Pride in my country? Such questions were brought to my attention through various means at the same time, in this semester’s Psychology of Language module, during my training as a Peer Connector where I learned the importance of avoiding ambiguity in spoken messages while supporting new students, but perhaps most strikingly, native English speakers asking

Nonetheless, I was impressed by the overwhelming sense of pride and respect in the answers I received from other international students.

FASHION INTERNATIONAL

‘Every country has its place in the world, no matter how small it is territorially; it would be a shame to let our current surroundings, often unintentionally, cause us to forget an innate part of our identity.’

The Spanish students spoke of cherishing the diversity of the country, with “each comunidad autónoma being única y totalmente distinta en cuanto a su geografía, sus tradiciones, sus costumbres, su cocina y su lengua.”

Although we come to the UK having accepted that the vast majority of the conversations we’ll have will be spoken in English, I believe it is important not to lose our mother tongue completely. However, for many nationalities and cultures who are not as strongly represented, either on a student campus or in Britain as a whole, that is easier said than done. That is why I reached out to some of the internationals here at the University of Dundee with this simple question: What do you feel most proud of that is specific to your home country?

The answers I received were eye-opening for me, regardless of the ‘international’ label slammed onto my forehead. I drafted my own answer first, going on about how I may awkwardly mispronounce certain words, but for perspective, I’m sure you’d be proud of yourself if you could say the word ‘Řeřicha’. My second point, which focused on how I felt particularly strong about our ‘pečivo, I later considered deleting for its superficiality. Though, in all fairness, I do think Czech bread is something you’ll point out to foreigners as well, once you’ve tasted it!

Zoi, A Psychology undergrad from Greece, felt strongly about their “πολιτιστικη σημασια” that has shaped the modern world.

Lastly, an alumnus of our university from Egypt deeply moved me with his almost-poetically worded feelings about the warmth of his country. And he wasn’t only talking about the warmth of its sun. Living in the country that bridges the East and the West, Egyptians naturally find themselves in the middle of a million different connections. ‫تالئاعلا نيبام يللا برقلا‬. ‫قيض‬ ‫ – ةيعامتجالا رياودلا‬that is the kind of warmth not many have the privilege to experience.

All in all, every country has its place in the world, no matter how small it is territorially; it would be a shame to let our current surroundings, often unintentionally, cause us to forget an innate part of our identity. So now, allow me to wrap it up with this month’s meme theme: ‘yeah, English is cool and all, but have you ever tried learning the actual lyrics of des-paaa-ciiito a-la-blah-laello-deeespacito?

Barbara Mertlova Photography by Andrew Bulter, Ahmed Abu Hameeda

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me – How does it feel not hearing the words you grew up surrounded by? It occurred to me, somewhere between all of these, that language indisputably shapes our identity, and is an inseparable part of the cultures we carry within us.

A Serbian friend of mine passionately wrote about the rich history of her country, despite the tough times it had indisputably lived through. She spoke of how the nation had learned not to repeat mistakes of the past: “i svi smo na nasu istoriju ponosni.”

VEGANUARY

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My name is Carolina, I am studying third year Psychology with Spanish and for the first time ever, I joined ‘Veganuary’: which means being vegan for the month of January.

I first came across the word ‘vegan’ at about 15 years of age, when I met a friend of a friend who claimed to be one. At that age, and growing up in a region of Italy where animal products (especially pork and cheese) are at the base of our diet, I was sceptical as to why someone would undertake such a lifestyle and could never see myself following that path. I was never a fan of steak, but I would have never refused homemade pasta (containing eggs) with Bolognese sauce or Italian Carbonara (pork cheek and eggs). However, I never really thought about the consequences that my diet could have on our planet and climate change.

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Climate change and the treatment of farm animals have become more influential topics alongside the issue of global warming as a real threat to the planet.

I grew up in a family where recycling and upcycling have always been a must and I have become a responsible in regard to this. However, it wasn’t until

Prior to starting Veganuary I thought it was going to be a challenge for me, but the fact that I love most vegetables, legumes and fruit is helping me maintain a balanced and healthy diet. Milk was my biggest concern as I was shocked by the amount of food that you would never have thought would contain it. I was also surprised by the number of things I could eat that were still delicious that did not include milk or dairy products.

There seems to be a common myth that veganism means eating tasteless food, but I have found that my overall enjoyment of food has been

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enhanced by eating more natural products with natural flavourings. I am now halfway through Veganuary and I am significantly happy with what I have achieved: I have started to cook more homemade and healthy food that is also very tasty. Surprisingly, I am not craving all the food that I currently cannot eat. Concerning my physical health and wellbeing, I haven’t personally experienced a huge change but I have noticed I have no heartburn and feeling less sluggish from not drinking milk in the morning.

Overall, I am very happy to have undertaken this challenge; I do not think I will become vegan, but this experience has made me realise that I can live without animal products. In conclusion, I will definitely eat fewer animal products after January, and I won’t drink cow’s milk, reducing my dairy intake overall and therefore I believe this will make me feel healthier, happier and I will feel proud for not contributing (as much as before) to others’ suffering and to know that I am making my contribution to making the world a ‘greener’ place.

Carolina Minguzzi Photography by Georgia Bayne

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When I decided to take on this challenge of becoming vegan for a month, I told my family and friends, and what surprised me the most was how the older generation (my grandparents) were more supportive than the younger ones. I explained the reasons beyond my decision and my grandparents understood and respected my decision, unlike other relatives who challenged my opinion, but above all showed themselves concerned about my health.

The mistreatment of animals, especially by intensive farming for instance the way milk is produced - is why I decided to try Veganuary.

FASHION LIFESTYLE

2016 that I realised I could do much more. I met more people who were vegetarian and vegan, some of whom became close friends of mine and they helped me have a better understanding of the impact that my diet has on the earth. I read a lot of articles and watched documentaries demonstrating the amount of pollution that is released into the atmosphere and the amount of food and water used by the meat industry.

On the other hand, there are also articles stating that the numbers are not as high as we are led to believe.

However, the mistreatment of animals especially by intensive farming; for instance the way milk is produced is in fact why I decided to try Veganuary, mostly for the animals.

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How do YOU survive St Patrick's day?

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t’s generally accepted that St. Patrick’s day is an excuse to get drunk for almost 24 hours and disregard any serious or religious celebrations which provide the bedrock of this festival of the patron saint of Ireland. It is also the last battle cry of the student, clutching onto one last excuse to get drunk for more than 12 hours before the coursework starts to loom, exams come knocking, you stop asking your flatmates ‘Out tonight?’ and instead, ‘Coming for a late night library sesh?’

'It's generally accepted that St. Patrick's day is an excuse to get drunk for almost 24 hours' For students in Dundee, there are many ways to celebrate. First you have to work out your Irish connection which will double as your excuse to celebrate for the following 24 hours. Maybe your Irish flatmate received a care package two months ago consisting solely of ‘Tato’ crisps so you decide you know enough about Irish delicacies to partake. Maybe you have an Irish wolfhound at home, that’s close enough. Or maybe one of the parents of your partner is Irish which definitely makes you Irish-in-law.

Dedicated DUSAists can be found in the nion before they’ve even indulged in lunch. This is a popular choice which results in localised pandemonium when they sell out of green slogan-emblazoned t-shirts. How else are you going to let the world know that you ‘survived St Paddy’s day 2018!’?

If you were fortunate enough get your hands on a shamrock emblazoned Union t-shirt, you have a crucial decision to make. Because chances are you’re eager to join in and show off that you’re part of this Irish embracing festival by wearing the same t-shirt but you want to get away with wearing as little of that green (which conveniently doesn’t match anything else you own) as possible. The general approach is to have the sleeves off, tie the bottom half up and slice the neck hole larger only to actually put it on and discover that you’re flashing both nipples and hastily try to tie the shreds of green t-shirt back into a reputable piece of clothing.

If you wanted to glorify yourself with green paint, I hope you got in quick because St Patrick’s day is when the shelves of every supermarket, convenience store, and costume shop in central Dundee are stripped bare of green paint because one particular sports society decided that the whole team where going to celebrate

LIFESTYLE

Before 2pm, the bars are already bustling and its getting to the “it-would-be-quicker-to-walk -backto-my-flat-and-crack-open-that-crate-of-cider-thanqueue-for-another-pint” kind of claustrophobia. This is quickly followed by record numbers of half drunk pints of Guinness bought by unsuspecting freshers, eager to be seen as entering into the proper spirit of St Paddy’s before taking their first overenthusiastic gulp and realising they’d much prefer a VK. There’s also the common misconception that drinking from 1pm well into the night is feasible, or even a good idea for that matter. Unless you plan your drinks and timing with military precision, you’re more than likely to end up in drunken tears or holding your friend back from swinging at a guy who told your girlfriend’s mate that green wasn’t her best colour.

However, legend has it that if you manage to drink one pint of Guinness at consistent 45 minute intervals between the hours of 3pm and 3am, you’ll find yourself waking in the early morning to a leprechaun perched at

the end of your bed insisting you listen to the story of his great grandfather Hamish who first hid gold at the end of a rainbow and who you can hear chucking as he runs away, pulling the rainbow behind him whenever anyone thinks they’ve gotten close to the end and the pot of gold. Ask any 3rd generation Dundee dweller if you don’t believe me.

St Paddy’s day isn’t really just a day though, its legacy leaks into the following days when most people don’t rise until tea time and those who do decide to venture out despite the hangovers stumble across a strange desolate Dundee, void of students and any kind of energetic adult. Forlorn green confetti tumbles along the pavement whilst nearly empty cans of beer ooze into the gutter. Lecturers prepare for empty classes and you decide to set about working out who the 12 people you added on Snapchat actually are. And as the hangover mellows and you share stories of St Paddy’s Day shenanigans over an all day breakfast, your mindset shifts from ‘thank gawd that only happens once a year’ to ‘shame that only happens once a year’.

Rose Kendall

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by spending the day clad only in underwear and green body paint. The safe option is always simple green war paint stripes, or maybe if you decide that green eyebrows will make a dashing compliment to your orange wig and stick-on goatee.

Here’s to us

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hen we think about new beginnings, our minds inevitably seem to wander towards all the projects, plans and promises which we intend to tackle in the future. And never does this happen more than at the beginning of a new year. More often than not, the self-imposed weight of restraints and resolutions ends in frustration by the end of January, so that by March everybody is gutted at the thought of their unused gym-membership, their stillnot-healthy diet, the low bank account balance, or that pack of cigarettes that still accompanies them. In short: our good intentions decay into self-reproaches.

‘You are entitled to your regret if you insist on it, but in the end our vices, flaws and errors are our biggest, and, perhaps, our only chances.’

I call for a change in attitude: let’s replace the self-blame with self-appreciation. Instead of chastising ourselves for our lack of discipline, why not think of what we have already accomplished this year?

I have always thought that the tradition of Thanksgiving was calendrically misplaced – let’s take a moment while 2018 is still young to think of how well we’re doing so far. I’m not asking for copious amounts of self-praise or conceit, but looking around my circle of friends I do believe more self-confidence is in order. How is your semester going? You haven’t dropped out yet, good for you! When was the last time you saw your friends?

Maybe too long ago, but you know they’re there for you, right? If you’re homesick: You’re here because you’re giving it your all! Had the flu yet? If so: Doesn’t it feel fantastic to be better again? If not: How lucky are you?

So, aren’t you doing great?

Of course it can never hurt to display ambition and to strive for the best we can achieve, but I cannot shake the overall impression that many of us tend to focus

on our shortcomings and failures, if there even are such things. In hindsight, it is only truly a mistake if we don’t learn from it. So why, without exception, every year on the midnight of the 31st of December, do we suddenly expect to change all that is imperfect about our lives within a few weeks? Why would we even want to? Surely 2017, as all the previous years, has not been devoid of lapses and blunders for any of us. Has that ruined your year? Has it ruined you? Certainly not, you’re still reading this.

You are entitled to your regret if you insist on it, but in the end our vices, flaws and errors are our biggest, and, perhaps, our only chances. If we could see our wrongs as just as much an enrichment as our rights, an immense pressure would be lifted off many shoulders, here on campus as much as anywhere. This is not to say that we should all just take a free ride on life and make excuses for our slips – we’ll still have to own those! But a little bit of tolerance and forgiveness goes a long way, with others as well as with ourselves. Otherwise we are bound to constantly be disappointed with everyone.

So let’s make this the year of lenient realism: If you are truly determined to go vegan in 2018, do it! If you really want to boast a sixpack, let nothing stand in your way! And if you need to save money for that trip which you promised yourself this summer, get a job! Be determined, but don’t be your own enemy. If you love cheese, go vegetarian first. If you hate the gym, pick up an outside hobby that can replace a workout. And if you don’t have the energy or time for a job, take weekend trips instead. Compromising is a part of adult life – not a great one, but necessary. And looking back on an entire year, you will probably think to yourself that some things did not turn out the way you expected or wanted them to, but if you can view them as the surprises that flavoured your life, you will walk more lightly. There are no detours, only journeys.

Marie-Bernadette Rollins

INTERNATIONAL LIFESTYLE

‘I call for a change in attitude: let’s replace the self-blame with self-appreciation.’

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Dundee University Photography Society Monthly Competition winner Teresa Elvira Berkel @tessatennantphotography Theme: Abstraction

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Glasgow through a sphere lens The theme for the April issue will be ‘Street Photography’ Deadline for submission: 15th March Submissions to be sent to dups.dundee@gmail.com Max of 2 submissions per person

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If you are anything like me, the name “King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard,” is probably one of the most insane band names you’ve ever read. And unlike most bands, who have a silly name, but nothing else to back them up, King Gizzard are also one of the most prolific and interesting bands of our era. In fact, in the last year alone they have released five albums, each with a unique concept behind them. I’m not going to even try and cover their full discography, but instead focus on the albums they’ve put out in the last couple years.

My favourite album of theirs was 2016’s “Nonagon Infinity”. The big gimmick about it is that it infinity loops; the last track flows right into the first one, so there’s no real starting point. Just pick a track, make sure your device is on repeat, and just let it rip. There’s not a dull moment in the album, whether it’s the chugging riffs of “Road Train,” the jazz interlude of “Invisible Face” or the distorted harmonic solos of “Robot Stop” (it’s a slightly insane album).

Following the success of “Nonagon Infinity” the band released “Flying Microtonal Banana,” in February 2017. Less aggressive than “Nonagon Infinity,” it instead drew from a more interesting bag of tricks including Turkish folk instruments, German psychedelia, Mongolian Throat Singing and of course, the titular microtones (notes with frequencies between those of the Western system). It also happens to feature the bands most popular song so far, “Rattlesnake”: a seven-minute-long jam, with about 25 unique words, completely incomprehensible structure and a Zurna (Turkish flute) solo. It’s also incredibly catchy for some reason.

The band then decided to follow up “Flying Microtonal Banana,” with their most ridiculous album yet. June’s “Murder of the Universe” is a concept album of 3 unrelated stories, complete with narration, in the first two chapters by singer-songwriter, Leah Senior, and the last, a text to speech program who takes a starring role, as a robot who makes a machine to allow him to vomit. While perhaps more reliant on spectacle and shock value than other King Gizzard albums, Murder of the Universe also displays King Gizzard at their heaviest and most aggressive. Perhaps you could draw lines between the fantasy worlds of Murder of the Universe, and the troubles in today’s society, but the album moves at such a pace it’s not easy, and probably not even desirable to understand what’s going on.

The third album of the year, “Sketches of Brunswick East” is probably the one I’ve explored least. It’s both a jazz fusion album, (down to the name which is a reference to Miles Davis’ “Sketches of Spain”) and also a collaboration with yacht rock band, Mild High Club. If you like flutes, you’ll love this album because the music is filled with it. But, honestly? My memories have mostly been wiped blank by the album that followed. “‘Polygondwanaland” is my favourite of the 2017 albums. I should state that now, before I start gushing about it. First of all, the way it was released. Rather than the normal method of album release, King Gizzard instead released the masters directly, allowing fans not just to download it for free, but also create CDs, LPs or even tapes and release them. Not just being content with revolutionising album release cycles ‘Polygondwanaland’ also features the most

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC 53 53

AN INTRODUCTION TO :

KING GIZZARD AND THE LIZARD WIZARD dramatic shift in style for King Gizzard, with a dark brooding tone running underneath its slowly building rhythms, occasionally climaxing to the heavy riffs the band was known for. Combine that with a narrative, that I’m pretty sure is a follow up about the vomiting robot and you get the most accomplished album of a band with a pretty accomplished year.

I’ve not had enough time to properly appreciate King Gizzard’s last album yet. ‘Gumboot Soup’ was released on New Year’s Eve, just before the deadline they set themselves. It’s the most Pop styled thing they’ve

ever done, with the experiments taking a backseat to song craft wrapped in a bubble of warm psychedelia.

There is also a doom metal song, but at this point, the quality of the album doesn’t really matter. In an age where it seems harder for extremely abnormal music to breakthrough into the popular consciousness, King Gizzard seem to have done it by being as abnormal as possible. I consider them the most important rock band of our time, I’d implore you to check them out.

Dominic Jones-Tett

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POPULAR CULTURE Pop music is stereotypically seen as that cheesy, mainstream, feel-good music that people put on and drunkenly dance too after a few glasses too many.

Artists like Boy George, Kylie Minogue and the Spice Girls, to name a few, epitomise 90s and early 2000’s Pop and remain the cliché way many of us envision the genre. Even as the new millenium progressed and Pop developed a slightly alternative feel with Lady Gaga leading the way in a new wave of Pop it never really held much sway with regards to real societal emotional impact, ignoring the odd significant piece such as ‘Imagine’ or ‘Happy Xmas’ by Lennon. Nevertheless, we all have memories that have created emotional attachments to certain songs. I was feeling nostalgic the other week while listening to a show on Jam Radio, when “Fireflies” by Owl City was played, and I realised it had been 9 years since its release. However, despite this ability to make personal impacts on our memory, largely due to its repetitive nature and strict adherence to a standard chord progression, it has not been until recently that Pop has started to make, as a whole, an on-mass impact in people’s minds for the messages they put across.

‘The strength of these messages I believe is essentially linked with the current hyped awareness of injustices and the complication of the human persona.’

The strength of these messages I believe is essentially linked with the current hyped awareness of injustices and the complication of the human persona. This all relates with what is essentially the definition of Pop: popular culture. Currently popular culture consists of increased global awareness regarding equal rights, sexual assault and mental health from which many artists have drawn their influences resulting in not only far more poignant lyrical pieces but also reflected within the increased use of the minor key in pop writing.

This is evident in many of the works of female singers such as Kesha, Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, and Sia. Kesha’s song “Praying,” nominated for a Grammy this year, blatantly speaks about being in a controlling relationship and strongly alludes to the abusive relationship she had under her former management.

This holds particular poignancy in a year where so many stars have been revealed to have been subjected to systematic abuse by those in a position of authority over them.

‘As the public’s eye casts a new gaze, Pop is still ever present to focus its sight.’

Lady Gaga’s song “‘Til It Happens To You” was another huge statement in the form of a pop song.

Gaga has never been one to shy away from making a statement but in this song she took on a whole other dimension. The music video combined with the sharp lyrics and the hauntingly moving 2016 live Oscars performance provided a message that cuts to the bone about the scarring effect of sexual assault and raising awareness around the fact, at the time, 1 in 5 college students in America were subject to sexual assault and only 13% came forward.

I could list on dozens of other songs in the last few years that encompass a vastly diverse range of issues in modern society but instead I am going to leave us on a happy note with a mention to the tracks in “The Greatest Showman” whose modern Pop feel help simply spell out the feeling of never being satisfied, feeling isolated and conversely hope.

This may not have been the most light-hearted music piece I have featured in this section but I think it is important to reflect on the fact that as the public’s eye casts a new gaze, Pop is still ever present to focus its sight.

David White

FASHION MUSICE 57

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Own Your New Year’s Resolutions Vachel Novesha

OPINIONS

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‘Now comes the hangover.’

Now comes, to be quite frank, the actual new year with its shipment of Mondays, and budgets, and rent being due, and the same shit of “new year, new me”.

Another day, another platitude. And with it all (because the post-Christmas comedown simply wouldn’t be the same without it) a plethora of New Year’s resolutions.

There are regular gym-goers who avoid Januarys because of the sudden influx of zealots all wanting to cram in a bajillion press-ups, to get an intravenous push of Fitness™ and plaster on a six-pack. Dance classes, choirs, psychologists . . . I’ll stop.

It sounds cynical and derisive but it’s not meant to be. I’m a fan of New Year’s resolutions. I think it makes for the kick-up-the-arse we need every now and again. They punctuate the passage of time, grabs us by the ears and say – look! LOOK! Look at what you’re doing. And perhaps that moment of horror, that gloomy, bile yellow vision, is a stark and sudden slap causing us to make promises to do better, to make up for a whole year where we weren’t.

And that’s unfair - surely - to our past selves and our future selves. Sure, we could have done better and perhaps your 2017 didn’t turn out to be all that you hoped it would be. So what? Hope is a sweet-faced, cruel, and fickle demon. Abandon all hope, I say.

‘Let your resolutions brim with achievable targets’ Let your resolutions brim with achievable target Quit

smoking? Switch to tobacco! Study more? Spend two evenings at the library! Be a better person? I dunno, read more? Be kind to yourself. Saunter up and leap across each hurdle you set, and then set each hurdle higher and in some weird, subverted domino-effect, you may just find yourself having leapt over the mountain of regrets and failures you so desperately wished to have archived.

Or, you know, chill fam. Slow and steady.

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ew Year’s will always be stocked with clichés and routines. Always. There will always be the past year’s review, the laments and regrets, drunken catch-ups, break-ups, hook-ups, promises, renewed calls for adventure, etc. The one redemption is the well-wishes and the good intentions. That’s the point afterall – those twelve days of Christmas.

They’re a step outside of the cumbersome humdrum of everyday life. It’s in this narrow dreamscape that hordes of goals and targets are devised, and it’s only because they’re yelled from figurative rooftops while being technically awake, that makes it one step better than all the plans we make just before falling asleep. Get drunk, get wrecked, hear the countdown, kisses all around, dance ‘til dawn and then collapse from the exhaustion of dreaming too hard.

VALUING VESTIGES

THE CASE FOR OVERSEAS MPS

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eing a politics undergraduate, a unionist campaigner, and generic Sassenach in Dundee; I’ve often had cause to reflect on the importance of ‘Britishness’ and why it’s worth preserving, even fighting for, usually amid a derisory backdrop of mockery ranging from coursemates to national politicians in the SNP.

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Recently, inspired by my Mum’s armchair anecdotes of Falklandish heroism and Argentine aggression, I’ve been carefully appraising the actions of Margaret Thatcher.

Fundamentally, I agree that they were testament to the United Kingdom’s support for her diffuse Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, provincial vestiges and all, numbering 17 since the handover of Hong Kong in 1997.

That said, it was a commitment not properly engrained within the national political system nor, crucially, its democratic institutions. With Argentina continuing to sniff around ‘Las Malvinas’, to the extent where David Cameron had to call a sovereignty referendum in 2013, one unavoidable truth has surfaced: we didn’t seal the deal back in 1982.

I’ve lately been impressed by Andrew Rosindell, Chairman of British Friends of the Overseas Territories, who has called for Westminster representation to grace shores spanning from Guernsey through to Bermuda.

His blueprint stipulates that nine new constituencies would be introduced for the House of Commons, each serving an average population of 56,000. This would be roughly the same as Northern Ireland’s seats and nearly triple the size of the current Western Isles electorate.

It’s a concept that Britain has flirted with, but never had the appetite to fully pursue. Malta, then a British colony, held an integrationist referendum in 1956 to ratify proposals that would’ve established a three-person delegation to the Commons. Attaining 77% approval, a respectable turnout of 59% was nevertheless deemed insufficient and the result was nullified. Today, the only claim to legislative representation for our protectorates is at the supranational level and soon to be deficient, with the European Parliament’s

What sets the Danes aside however, is their respect for localism married with a conviction to see their dependencies represented in the national parliament, or Folketing. Greenland and the Faroe Islands send two delegates each, theoretically carrying the same voting power as the other 175 MPs, although they rarely exercise this mandate outside the areas of fishing and foreign policy.

Not only does this convention adhere to the case for British territories, catering for similar competencies, but it establishes that overseas politicians abide by a remit to foremostly serve the interests of their home territories, limiting in expert influence on Britain’s domestic politics. There’s no guarantee that this

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Andrew Rosindell has called for Westminster representation to grace shores spanning from Guernsey through to Bermuda

Regardless, dependency politicians are warming increasingly towards representation at Westminster; in the words of Lillian Missick, former Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Islands Consultative Council, “a seat in the UK Parliament will also formalise links with British society as a whole that come with the opportunities our people have to live, work and study in the UK”.

Theresa May promises to deliver a “global Britain” based on industrial innovation and swashbuckling mercantilism but she must start from home(ish). As it stands, Britain’s global possessions will have no “seat at the table” (to coin an irritating Brexit neologism) when it comes to negotiating crucial free-trade agreements.

Constitutional alignment through parliamentary representation has the potential to bolster our protectorates’ footing in the world, as well as reinforce post-Brexit Britain’s status as a modernised arbiter of legislative democracy and steadfast foreign policy. Who knows? It might even get us talking seriously about those dodgy accounts in the Caymans.

Curtis Large

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Denmark administrates two overseas territories; Greenland, the world’s largest island, and the Faroes, a rugged archipelago of isles situated between Iceland and Scotland. Both retain their own political parties and legislatures but have also enjoyed a generous increase in autonomy since 1979 and 1948 respectively, whereby executive power, particularly in-home affairs, has been transferred from the host state to the devolved administrations.

guideline would be followed, although I can’t imagine the Anguilla United Front, or perhaps the Virgin Islands Party, being elected on any basis other than advocacy of local interests.

MUSIC OPINIONS

South West England constituency also comprising Gibraltar since 2004.

Whilst devolution is widespread, exercised in miniature assemblies akin to local councils, pivotal matters of “defence, security and safety of the territories and their people,” as well as the supreme law under which they reside, remain the near exclusive prerogative of the British state. The issue is not the influence of the external power itself; the guarantee of military protection gives due weight to the territories’ diplomatic significance and the enjoyment of English common law knows no bounds. Moreover, the issue is that many of whom these areas profoundly affect have no ballot with which to express their viewpoint.

If we are to redress this shortcoming and avoid treating our 500,000 some overseas brethren as quasiimperial subjects, we must consider the apparatus of a Scandinavian ally.

Flares to Messenger to Avatars Rory Brooke

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onsider a time you messaged a friend to come meet you in Liar Bar one Saturday. You talked to them over Messenger; they said ‘Yeah I’ll be there in 20’. Then you spend twenty minutes waiting and walking to DUSA. You arrive at Liar and spot them waving you down on one of the couches near the entrance. What you just did was use a digital tool to decrease a distance between you and your friend to quickly arrange a physical meeting.

Say you lived in a flat facing south in Seabraes and they lived on the third floor of Belmont Tower. If you had no access to a computer or a phone, one could say, at that time, the presence of your friend was distant. Not absent however, as it’s possible that they could have climbed Belmont Tower and shot a series of flares from the ninth floor agreed to translate to “Want to meet for coffee in Liar in twenty minutes?”. However both of you would likely have to break into other flats so that you may communicate.

This is an extreme example. However, what I have just illustrated is how digital tools really do bring us closer together. Through them, phenomena are revealed in greater clarity, in what phenomenologist Alva Noë calls ‘reorientation and focus’ of our human faculties.

A phenomenologist is a philosopher who seeks to understand the fundamentals of experience from the first-person. Edmund Husserl, who brought this school of thought into its own, highlights that consciousness is defined by its ‘intentional’ direction towards a phenomenon. These phenomena, to Noë, require the reorientation and focus of our abilities to perceive and understand.

You lacked both perception and understanding of what your friend in Belmont Tower wanted to do until you communicated. When your friend fires the flare, they’re temporarily more present to you, as you’re now focused on what your friend is saying through their flares. Their engagement in communication with you brings your intention towards them. But imagine if you stayed on the south side of Seabraes, and all you could perceive was the sound of the flares. You know a message has been sent, but you have to orient your body into a position where you can see the flares.

Hence why it is necessary to enter one of the north facing flats. This, allows you to see the flares, and then, with your knowledge of your shared flare language, focus in on what the message is. Through two actions, you decrease an abstract distance followed by a physical one.

“People might desire to express their desired image through an avatar, contrary to an association with their physical counterpart.”

There are easier ways to go grab a coffee with your friend in Liar. Originally, I illustrated how you used Messenger to quickly arrange a meeting. Compared to the previous method of communication, it takes very little reorientation and focus to bring you both closer together. So close that you can know exactly what your friends objectives are, since there is no limit to how many messages you can send at a time. Think about the phenomena at play in your conversation over Messenger. To communicate you need a Facebook account. This acts as an avatar of your conscious

MUSIC SCIENCE

intention to communicate. Everyone on social media, whether it be over Facebook, a forum, or World of Warcraft, has an avatar of a nature and form.

With this reduction have come new phenomena, from the way we appreciate the avatar as a personal presence.

People might desire to express their desired image through an avatar, contrary to an association with their physical counterpart. Many will view an avatar as merely a tool, existing independent from us when not in use.

Interestingly, phenomenologist Maurice Merleau-Ponty would claim we make tools part of our body through their usage - the ‘incorporation’ of tools. An avatar becomes incorporated whilst it is in operation. After all, that is what you did in order to arrange a meet up with your friend in Liar.

However, in the flare example, the tool incorporation was temporary, as you wanted to become present to your friend over a coffee. Sure, your friend might have been happy being in the presence of you through communication via avatar: is that not what we do

A person might have tailored their avatar in an ideal way of interacting with an online society. High level players on online multiplayer games can match themselves with other high level online players; individuals can equip their avatars on particular multiplayer games so that they may effectively role-play. When you encounter the avatar of a friend, whom you haven’t ever met physically, is there a debate to whether you ‘met’ them?

Of course, it might not matter, since this could be your only means of achieving their presence.

Many people like being with other people. That, in my opinion, is unlikely to change. Yet the nature of distance between us, and what it means to be present, might change with technology. These shifts create new ways of orientation and focus on phenomena in reality.

Before things start like the plot of ‘Ready Player One’ or ‘Tron,’ it might be worthwhile asking this; how much does that Saturday afternoon in Liar, coffee in hand, with your friend matter to you in these times of great change?

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These avatars can range from being close to the source material, to being complete reinventions of ourselves. On Facebook, it’s safe to say that your profile and that of your friend’s reflect your physical being.

You don’t rely on your avatars for communication exclusively; you would much rather meet in person over a coffee. Avatars, manifested from the technological advancement of communication, have been monumentally effective in reducing the distance between the conscious being and the phenomena of intention.

with friends who live far away, or over an online multiplayer video game? Your friend could have been terribly incapacitated and going through university life never leaving Belmont Tower. That encounter via digital platform is enough to say that you ‘talked’ to them.

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Dundee University Photography Society Monthly Competition runner up Sarah Creuly @sarahcreuly Theme: Abstraction

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Sea Stone from the Edinburgh National Museum The theme for the April issue will be ‘Street Photography’ Deadline for submission: 15th March Submissions to be sent to dups.dundee@gmail.com Max of 2 submissions per person

A Brighter Future for ADPKD 66

T

hese essential organs provide remarkable services to the body: quietly filtering toxins from the blood, producing urine, producing hormones, regulating blood pressure and water retention, participating in the production of red blood cells and activating vitamin D to keep bones healthy. With so many functions, it is easy to see how catastrophic it would be if your kidneys stopped working.

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic kidney disease, or ADPKD, is a disease where the kidneys gradually fill with cysts and stop working. One of the most common genetic renal disorders, genetic mutations cause changes in renal proteins, eventually leading to the development of cysts. These cysts enlarge and ultimately overtake the kidney structure, destroying renal function. Initially, the kidneys are able to compensate for these cysts. When cysts develop, the affected kidney begins a process known as superfiltration to compensate for small blocked tubes within the kidneys structure, and kidney function is maintained at a normal level even as the kidney continues to fill with cysts. At a critical point, the kidney can no longer compensate and function rapidly declines towards renal failure. Individual cysts have been known to exceed 10cm in diameter - the same size of a normal adult kidney.

An inherited genetic disease, patients inherit a single mutated copy (known as an allele) of either the PKD1

or PKD2 gene from an affected parent. These mutated alleles are passed from an affected parent to a child at the rate of one in two, giving children of an affected parent a 50% likelihood of developing the disease.

ADPKD is thought to affect around 60,000 people in the UK, accounting for 1 in 8 kidney transplants and 1 in 10 patients on dialysis.

In ADPKD, PKD1 mutations are more common than PKD2 mutations and tend to have a more severe progression. However, the severity and progression of the disease varies widely between patients, even between members of the same family who have the same mutation. This could be attributed to environmental factors such as diet.

Since there is often a positive family history, genetic tests are usually unnecessary to confirm the presence of the disease. Instead, diagnosis is achieved through the use of ultrasound or CT scans; however, these imaging techniques are not able to tell patients and clinicians how quickly the disease is likely to progress. Patients are often monitored throughout their lifetime to keep a close eye on their renal health.

With the first documented case of ADPKD dating back to the 16th century - Stefan Báthory, the King of Poland, whose death in 1586 was followed by descriptions of his kidneys as being ‘large like those of a bull, with uneven and bumpy surface’ – one would think treatment would have been developed.

Recently, a great step forward in the treatment of ADPKD was made. The first drug to slow the progression of ADPKD was approved for use in the UK and is already being issued to patients. Following a three year long clinical trial, the drug ‘Tolvaptan’ was found to significantly reduce the speed in which the kidney swells in volume when compared to patients who were given a placebo.

This comes on the back of time-consuming phases of drug development and safety assessments that must be passed for a drug to be approved. Many drugs are assessed for decades but fail to pass clinical trials and therefore are not fit for use on humans. A way to speed up the process of these trials is to repurpose a drug that has already been approved to work for another condition. By doing this, the drug can bypass many of the early stages of research and go straight to clinical trial. This means that the time for a drug to be approved for patients is greatly reduced.

Tolvaptan was previously approved for use in heart failure after trials in 1998 for patients in Japan. Having

been repurposed, a number of the side effects were already known to researchers and clinicians, but another round of clinical trials was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the drug for treating ADPKD. Nearly two decades passed between Tolvaptan’s first use in patients and being approved for treatment of ADPKD. Given time, researchers will gain even greater understanding of how to enhance the positive effects of Tolvaptan and increase patient survival. Scientific literature published just four months ago observed the benefits of Tolvaptan even in the late stages of ADPKD. After fast-track clinical trials and a speedy entrance onto renal wards across the UK and beyond, Tolvaptan is already transforming lives. It has even entered the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommended treatment list just months after hitting the pharmaceuticals market. It has decreased the demand of ADPKD patients entering the transplant list with lengthy waits for organ availability, as well as reducing the time required on dialysis machines (a tiresome process alone). It is hoped, that with further improvements in treatment and knowledge of human health, the outlook for ADPKD will change.

James Dale

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Yet, despite being first reported five centuries ago, ADPKD is still considered untreatable. Even today, the mechanisms behind the development of cysts are poorly understood, and the clinical outcome is poor.

In recent years however, significant research has been undertaken to understand the mechanisms of cyst development and the effects of drugs in preventing the progression of the disease.

OPINIONS SCIENCE

‘Have you ever wondered where you would be without your kidneys?’

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