From The Editor
Harley Lorenzo Wood
When we talk about space, my first thought is always outer space. It’s rocket ships, far away planets, and even the sad tale of Laika the space dog. There’s so much to learn about the vastness of outer space, and so much that we’ll probably never know for sure.
But what about the space that exists here on earth? As much as I love to ponder the existence of alien life, there’s more than one meaning to the word space. Take personal space, for example. What does it mean when you just need a bit of space? And how do the spaces we live in affect our wellbeing? All interesting questions that are explored in this edition of Universal.
Space marks our 60th edition of Universal Magazine, and our team loved exploring the different meanings of the word. We hope you find yourself a quiet space to read about them all and thanks for joining us again.
Until next time,
The Universal Team
Interested in joining the team? Or looking to submit some work?
Please contact Kingston Youth Services on P: 1300 369 436
E: youth.services@kingston.vic.gov.au
Info: kingstonyouth.org.au/universal
Read previous editions: Available for your reading pleasure at any time! Read online at: issuu.com/universal_kingston
Acknowledgement of Country
The City of Kingston proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respect to their Elders, past and present.
Council acknowledges the Bunurong’s continuing relationship to the land and waterways and respects that their connection and spiritual identity is maintained through ancient ceremonies, songlines, dance, art and living culture.
Council pays tribute to the invaluable contributions of the Bunurong and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island elders who have guided and continue to guide the work we do.
Cover Design by Phoebe Gallagher
The views and opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views, values and official position of the City of Kingston or any of its officials, representatives or employees
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Star Wars: The Suck-quels
Words by Caleb Chu, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Heartbeats Through Space
Words and Illustration by Trinity Brincat
Two Planets
Words by Angelique Matthews, design by Phoebe Gallagher
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Taking Up Space
Words by Anne Liu, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Untitled
Stepping Back: Space in a Relationship
Words by Grace O’Shea, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Words and illustrations by Sofia Nikitina 8
Starman
Illustration by Terry Loxou
Universal: Join The Team!
Kingston Youth Services
Poem by Anne Liu, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Feng Shui
STAR WARS: THE SUCK-QUELS
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This article contains major spoilers for all Star Wars films, and is best read with a decent understanding of the main nine films. If you have yet to watch Star Wars – I mean, come on, it’s Star Wars – hurry up.
On October 30, 2012, Disney announced its acquisition of the Star Wars franchise and their plans for a sequel trilogy, shocking fans around the world. Three films released over the subsequent seven years, with the third of the three films releasing December 20th of 2019, on the brink of a fresh decade. These sequels… flopped. Horrifically. They were received with scathing critic reviews and immense disappointment from longtime fans, many of whom still refuse to accept the films as canon. The characters were uncompelling, the dialogue and fight scenes were bland and cliché. The story was so shot through with plot holes that it might as well have bled to death. Fans wanted, and deserved, better. But what would “better” even look like?
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The most significant problem with this trilogy was the return of Emperor Palpatine, whose survival was not foreshadowed in the slightest, not even in the seventh and eighth films. I mean, they couldn’t have made a cash-grab less obvious if they tried. But cheap nature aside, it also meant that all the character’s efforts throughout the original trilogy amounted to jack squat. What point is there in killing off the main antagonist if he doesn’t die, or even present a new and interesting plot device in the wake of his resurrection?
Instead of simply reviving the Empire –led by Darth Vader’s bratty grandkid with anger issues – it would have been a great deal more interesting to take Palpatine out of the question entirely, as the original trilogy had done with flying colors. Perhaps in the wake of the power vacuum left by the death of the Empire, introduce someone with a new and more personal agenda. This was George Lucas’ plan for the sequels – Luke Skywalker would slowly begin to
Words by Caleb Chu, design by Phoebe Gallagher
rebuild the Jedi Order, but Darth Talon, the apprentice of the late Darth Maul, would stand in his way. This would have left room for Lucas’ original story to breathe, while still giving fans a fresh yet familiar narrative to enjoy.
The other significant issue is that the sequels are comprised of more hole than plot. Vader’s dark Force ghost allegedly communicates with Kylo Ren, even though we saw Anakin’s redeemed Force ghost celebrating with Luke following the battle of Endor. Luke lounges around in selfimposed exile on an empty planet waiting for the sweet release of death, but he also left a map to his location for anyone to find him. The majority of the Galaxy gladly welcome a new and imposing version of the Empire, despite the terror they caused and the atrocities they committed several decades earlier– actually, now that I mention it, that last one sounds… awfully familiar. Never mind. The point is, the sequel films are falling apart at the seams everywhere you look.
This was largely due to the unfortunate fact that the three films were under multiple different management figures, and none of them were George Lucas. Even if Lucas’ version of the films were just as bad, it would have at least been received as an artistic direction that he had committed to. Instead, solely by nature of having multiple directors – neither of which had full creative control of any of the films they directed – the sequel trilogy became less an expression of ideas and creativity and more a product to sell to the masses. This seems to be a trend with many of the films Disney has been putting out.
Despite these grievances, as it stands now, the plot of the sequels have some merit –but the execution is awful. The characters in particular are just… plain, boring, their motives unclear. Supreme Leader Snoke, especially, has no backstory whatsoever, and when his origins are eventually - finally - revealed, he’s already been dead for half a movie. Rey also suffers from Vague Backstory Syndrome, but at least her origins were slightly foreshadowed in the seventh and eighth films. The characters might
have benefited from more compelling motives - here, Kylo Ren becomes a fanfavorite example.
If Kylo Ren, grandson of Darth Vader, were NOT Force-sensitive, his character would suddenly hold more nuance and depth than the directors would know what to do with. Instead of coming across as a whiny megalomaniac, Ren suddenly becomes a relatable character who struggles to balance his desire to fulfill expectations, with his distinct lack of talent. Immature, unfettered rage now reads as frustration at his own inadequacies, and it becomes much clearer how he was manipulated to fight for the Empire. It would also explain his grievances with Rey’s crew. Discovering Rey herself, and especially Finn – an exstormtrooper – both exhibit more talent with the Force than he could ever hope to achieve in a lifetime, would drive him to extreme resentment, especially considering his emotional state throughout the duration of the sequels.
Star Wars is one of the most beloved franchises in the world. Its movies have enthralled generations, and will continue to for years to come. The sequel trilogy is an unfortunate victim of Disney’s merge with Lucasfilm, and mourned by fans everywhere, but at least it’s not Star Trek.
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*Any opinions expressed in this article are solely that of the author, and are in no way affiliated with Universal Magazine, Kingston Youth Services, or the City of Kingston in any regard.
‘is there anything else? something going on at home, your other subjects? or is it just this?’
they say condescendingly. why can’t it just be this, this minute little thing that has me ‘distraught’ beyond rationality?
‘don’t be sorry, i’m sorry for you’
that has them telling me ‘sorry’? the uncomfortable anguish behind their eyes not out of pity but a serious wish to escape the room where my tears and sorrowful attitude taint their perfect state
‘maybe you should talk to someone’
-else, because they sure don’t want to deal with it it’s not in their job description yet insisting i follow along their step-by-step instructions of ‘what to do when someone cries’ is rather critical and mandatory
but it feels to me that they don’t understand i just would like some time on my own to gather myself plaster a smile on again be myself -positive laughing joyful meonce more.
i just need a little space please.
by
words
Anne Liu, design by
Phoebe Gallagher
Every day, the heart creates enough energy to drive 20 miles (32.187km). In a lifetime, that energy is equivalent to the amount needed to drive to the moon and back. So when you tell someone you “love them to the moon and back,” you are essentially saying that you will love them with all the energy your heart pumps throughout your whole life.
Stepping Back:
Space in a Relationship and Why You Might Need It
Words by Grace O’Shea, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Firstly, what does it even mean? In the context of relationships, it can be defined as a period of physical or emotional distance between individuals in a relationship (whether friends, family or romantic partners) that allows them to recharge, reflect, and focus on personal needs, interests, or responsibilities, without necessarily severing or ending the relationship.
There are many reasons someone might need a temporary break or shift within a relationship dynamic. Such as:
• Feeling overwhelmed from too much emotional intensity: This occurs especially when one person feels that they need to respond to their companion’s struggles or be constantly available for them, but don’t receive an equal level of support or attention in return, throwing off the balance. Creating space helps with processing emotions and regaining stability.
• Conflict resolution: Sometimes, space is necessary to calm down after a disagreement or fight; it allows for the heat of the moment to pass, preventing hurtful words being exchanged or impulsive decisions being made.
Grace cont.
• Stress and burnout: School, work, family, or internal pressures can really wear you out. Amidst all the assignments and responsibilities, your time and ability to be present in a relationship is greatly reduced. On top of that, socialising can be draining (particularly for neurodivergent individuals) in itself. Taking a short break allows you to recharge and prioritize your own well-being, returning to social connections with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
• Unique interests and identities: Friends and partners don’t always share hobbies or interests, which makes it difficult at times to connect during activities, or resonate with certain experiences. It’s important to remember that everyone is different; relationships should not require anyone to avoid exploring individual passions or to suppress parts of themself. Ensuring both together time and opportunities for personal space fit into the relationship is a simple, but effective method for improving wellbeing and inter-personal skills whilst preventing co-dependency.
• Boundary setting: Space helps people reflect on and respect each other’s limits.
How can I initiate space with my friend, partner or grandparent?
While challenging, it is essential to communicate your needs clearly and honestly. Choose a good time and place to talk, and use “I” statements to express your feelings, avoiding blame and defensiveness. Be specific about what you need, reassure the other person that it’s not a reflection on them or the relationship. By being open, empathetic, and respectful, you can work together to find a balance that respects the needs of both parties.
Grace cont.
What should I do if they want space?
Examples of what to say instead of statements that begin with “You never…” or “You make me feel like...”
“I feel unheard when my feelings are not acknowledged.”
“I feel stressed if you send too many long messages.”
• Acknowledge their feelings and the request by giving them the space they need, even its hard for you.
• Avoid taking it personally and remember that their need for space is about their own needs, not about you.
• Avoid harsh statements, accusations or asking too many questions.
• Discuss boundaries, which may involve making compromises.
• Reflect on your own actions or things that you have said that could have contributed to them needing space.
• Be patient.
• Focus on self-care: Use this time to focus on yourself, your interests, and your own well-being.
Conclusion
Establish regular intervals where you can check in and mutually agree on the duration of distance before you will reconvene. Let each other know how you’re feeling and that you are there for each other, without hassling.
If you think that some space is needed to deal with an elephant in the room, know that it does not mean you have to end the relationship, and that it can help build better bonds in the long run. Learning how to accommodate personal development, address any potential issues and resolve conflicts is vital to keeping balanced, healthy relationships. For more specific information on types of relationships and support, you can visit https://headspace. org.au/our-impact/campaigns/nip-it-in-thebud/relationships/
Illustration by Terry Loxou
Two Planets
words by Angelique
Space.
Caroline had said we’d needed space. That she couldn’t think. That she needed time alone.
That if we took a step back then maybe, we could ultimately come back together.
That if it was written in the stars, then it would all be fine. But right now, we both needed the space. Or maybe she just needed the space.
Because as I sit here in our science classroom now, that space feels endless. She sits far opposite me, along the U-shaped tables, looking beautiful, breathtaking. Even in her mauve hoodie, her hair tied up in a golden ribbon. And I want to reach out to her, because… well… she was my everything.
I follow Caroline’s line of sight to where she’s actually paying attention to Dr Davis at the front of the room, drawling on about Venus and Mars.
And like those two planets, I know we’re drifting out in space.
Lost. Fighting for our lives, screaming into the abyss.
Fighting that gravitational pull, that force trying to pull us back together. Those damn stars around us, taunting us as we push off each other, spinning endlessly. But, somehow my heart always returns to her, to that space across the classroom that I will always look for. To that coffee shop on the drive home.
Because I know that if this variation of space were to work, for the space that she’s asked for, if those stars would make up their mind…
There would be colour. Vibrance. Excitement. A bright nebula, the birth of those stars.
Matthews, design by Phoebe Gallagher
Not white flashes of quick stolen kisses, or the endless darkness of corners at parties, or silence in a crowded room, or broken space stations of brief conversations over text. There would be warm inky yellows of long picnic dates, purples in late-night deep conversations, a wash of orange that covers your body like a hug, hot pinks tangled up in bed, cool reds of trust, faith, hope.
I think, maybe, this space shows, we’re a supernova instead. The exploding death of a star.
It’s exploding and shooting out rays of harsh, unforgiving light. That’s what this space is doing to my heart, stealing the air from my lungs. I’m still flailing. We’re still lost.
“Sam? Could you read out the second paragraph please?”
I forgot where I was.
As I focus back out of it all, my eyes collide with hers. Bright, deafening, oceans of blue.
Two planets colliding in a deadly explosion. Debris flying, glass and dirt and brick. Electricity sizzling. Skies darkening. My heart splitting in two as I’m flung deep into the endless dark space beyond, and back amongst those taunting stars.
I snap out of her gaze, of those two colliding planets, dying, dead, spread across the galaxy.
I let out a long breath as I face Dr Davis at the front of the room.
Maybe we do need space.
Feng Shui
The words “Feng shui” (pronounced “fung sh-wey”) probably ring a bell to you in some way or another. You might’ve heard of it on TikTok or on other social media as this “new generation” idea of interior design that makes rooms visually appealing and cohesive. On a surface level, yes, that is a simple interpretation of Feng shui. But on a grander scale, this manipulation of space is an ancient Chinese philosophy regarding positive and negative energy, called qi. It analyses how the arrangement of your furniture and surrounding environment can bring fortune and support wellbeing, or on the other hand invoke long-term stress, poor relationships and bad health. It goes far deeper than just visuals or aesthetic home rearrangement. Feng shui analyses the optimal flow and direction of qi, and manipulates the environment around it.
But first, what even is qi?
Qi (pronounced “chi”) - is the backbone of Feng shui. In ancient Chinese philosophy, qi is the life force of everything around us, it courses through living things, inanimate objects and even non-material things such as emotions, thoughts and heat. In the practise of Feng shui, qi circulates and energises everything in our existence, and there are two types of qi; positive qi and negative qi.
• Positive qi (sheng qi) brings feelings of contentment, fortune and good health and can be harnessed for your own positivity and happiness (be it strong relationships, good luck or achieving personal goals).
• If Negative qi (sha qi) is overly present in your life, it can result in poor mental and physical health, lack of motivation, strained relationships with those around you and a sense of mental fog and misfortune in future opportunities.
Both sha and sheng qi are continuously flowing and interacting with our world. In Feng shui, there are certain techniques and ways to capture and introduce the flow of positive qi into the home, which often involves arranging your house in ways that feel the most safe, undisruptive and gives you the most happiness and comfort to reside in. Ensuring the flow of qi around your house’s structure is never blocked or disrupted (for instance, by a large table placed in the middle of an entryway corridor, disrupting the momentum of qi).
In ancient Chinese philosophy, as well as Feng shui, there are five elements of nature that should be implemented to effectively channel sheng qi in your home. Qi on its own in a house may be unstable or chaotic, and requires each of the five elements to carefully stabilise and channel the qi effectively. Think of it like a band of superheroes - each with their own special power that collectively contribute to defeat and trap the chaotic bad guy.
None of the elements should overpower one another - a water-heavy space will feel isolating, sluggish and dark, while the overuse of earth will feel restricting and oppressing, with an unchanging environment. These elements don’t necessarily refer to actual tree trunks or dirt and bits of metal scraps around the house, but more so visual elements that represent these elements. Some examples are:
words and illustrations by Sofia Nikitina
Water: homes and areas with flowing water attract quite a lot of qi, it symbolises the flow of good energy and fortune, as well as wealth. Water elements should also be implemented near the main entrance of the house, since this is where the “mouth of qi” is, also known as the spot where the qi enters the home.
• Small water fountain/decorative piece with water in it
• A form of water in the front/backyard such as a fish pond or fountain (this is of course, quite impractical and difficult, but the option is there!)
• Black, grey and blue-toned features
• An aquarium contains both liveliness and water! Fish promote wealth, and the flowing livelihood of the aquarium’s stream is ideal.
Metal: metal is connected to discipline, clarity, order and efficiency, and is ideal for studying, working and making clear decisions. Metal is used for a more organised and non-intimate environment, and can be too rigid for personal areas like bedrooms.
• Adding Metal decorative pieces (like abstract work) on walls, tables or work desks
• Reflective or chrome surfaces/textures, or anything shiny such as glazed ceramic, frames, door handles and clocks
• Wind chimes, which ward away negative energy
• White, gold, silver, metallic colours
Fire: the fire element should be incorporated in homes to promote feelings of passion, happiness and excitement. It works great in bedrooms and living spaces for a sense of liveliness.
• Sources of lighting such as lamps, overhead fixtures, ambient lighting and natural sunlight
• Animal textures like leather and fur (faux fur works too)
• Actual fire! A fireplace or outdoor campfire, candles indoors.
• Electronics such as TV’s, phones and computers
• Bright colours like red, orange, purple and pink
Earth: this element is very common in modern western design today, but in Feng shui, earth is necessary to promote stability, well-being, grounding and good relationships within your environment.
• Earthy, beige, brown, nude and soft yellow colours
• Natural materials and textures like linen, wool, crystal and terracotta
• Pictures or paintings of mountains and other natural structures
• Terracotta or clay decorative pieces
Wood: seemingly similar to earth, but as opposed to representing grounding, wood symbolises growth, creativity, expansion and new beginnings. Wood elements, particularly plants, are ideally placed near entrances, window sills, as qi often enters the home through them and plants are believed to absorb negative qi.
• Wooden elements like bamboo, oak, spruce materials/accents
• As mentioned, potted plants, particularly vertical-standing ones
• Paper texture or paintings/fixtures
• Nature-like colours like green, brown, dark green, teal and earthy reds.
• Floral or leafy patterns on walls/furniture
Along with the five natural elements of Feng shui, there are other beliefs and rules that can be followed when arranging your home for more optimal sheng qi flow. This being the more well-known aspect of Feng shui: furniture arrangement.
How qi manoeuvres around us:
According to the Chinese philosophies, qi has different directories and speeds depending on its environment - sheng qi moves in a wavy motion, like a gentle breeze that manoeuvres around and nourishes its surrounding environment. If the qi is given a full, yet carefully arranged home that it can carefully circle without leaving nor being disrupted, it will effectively nourish the room/home with positive energy. If there is a large amount of empty space and easy access to an exit across from where the qi enters, the qi may quickly leave through these doorways and fail to linger long enough to nourish the room.
For example, an open-plan home where the front door is directly across from the door to the backyard, with the kitchen and living room in between, yet no furniture or obstructions means the sheng qi leaves almost immediately through the doors and cannot meander through the large space long enough to nourish nor bring any good energy. This is bad Feng shui.
In order to fix this issue (since hiring a contractor to rebuild your entire layout isn’t very easy nor practical), you can fix this quick exit by rearranging your furniture in a way that separates the two entrances, like with a couch or round table redirecting the qi throughout the living space. Qi blockers can’t reorder the space to the brink of severe blockage however - harsh disruptions in the qi flow will stagnate it and reform it into sha qi.
Command position:
A well-known Feng shui principle is the command position. Essentially, to maintain a good balance of qi in a room, especially one where you’re working, sleeping or sitting in, it’s ideal to position the main piece of furniture (the couch, work desk, bed, etc.) in the command position. The command position is the place where you can see the entrance of the room, yet aren’t directly across from the door/entryway. This gives you a sense of “power” or control over the room, and makes you more prepared for anyone entering the room without feeling vulnerable or exposed. The slight movement away from the door’s direct line of sight prevents an overwhelming flow of qi from the entryway hitting you, whilst allowing
The desk position gives you a blind spot as to who enters the room, and the qi is too overwhelming when this close to the door. This is not command position.
Natural light:
The desk here is up against the wall, giving a sense of security from the back. There are no blind spots, and you can see whoever enters the room. The qi will nourish you gracefully and carefully from this position away from the door. This is the ideal command position
You might be able to feel this naturally, but natural light gives a space a sense of positivity, growth and motivation - it sure does for me! Windows are considered the “eyes of the house” and are another key entryway for qi. Natural light should be enhanced and utilised when possible and welcomed into the home as a harmonising invite from nature. Keeping a “positioning area” (area where you often sit/are located) near a window will bring more sheng qi and positive energy. Make sure to add some plants to filter out the sha qi though!
You don’t have to be overly spiritual, nor a die-hard expert in Feng shui or Chinese philosophy to follow this advice! You’ll find that adding greenery or a pop of colour and texture to any home will boost the look of your surroundings, regardless of your belief in its spiritual benefits. Open up those blinds you’ve always been closing, add a carpet to that overly empty space, or move that table to be more commanding! Afterall, what harm can a little extra qi do?
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