The University Times Magazine - Vol. 4, Issue 1

zine 16.09.14

Red Hot

An interview with Thomas Knights

The Irish Amish

A visit to the Amish-Mennonites of Waterford

From Gaza to Trinity

One student’s journey to Trinity College

Fresh Perspectives If you look to the top of this frame you will see one of the ugliest mascots that ever existed. This is Zardoz, and he is the tradition handed down by past editor Tommy Gavin. This isn’t some ancient tradition, it’s perhaps about three years old but considering The University Times itself is only six that’s half our lifetime. So should we keep one of our only traditions or trade it in for a cute pug in a top hat or something? For weeks we debated this heady issue, what to do with Zardo? Every creative editor’s worst nightmare, there was simply nothing that could be done. Either accept it’s undeniable ugliness or chuck it.

About this time we began thinking of themes for our first issue and settled upon ‘fresh perspectives’ asking writers and editors to take a fresh look at their college experience and beyond. My own college experience however was certainly uncomfortable to take a fresh look at. No year was the same. I cruised through first year out in Halls, making friends and joining societies, but in second year got caught up in the worst parts of Trinity culture; the society competition, the status obsession and egotistical popularity. In third year I had gotten a coveted society position and felt I was finally where I wanted to be or at least was meant to, except it somehow felt empty.

And then, I got sick.

Dropping out due to a serious physical illness had many side effects and one of them was the most rude awakening to the fickle culture in Trinity I had left behind. Few of the peers I had idolised even noticed I had disappeared. The many friends I thought I had failed to contact me. The insignificance of what I had been trying to achieve suddenly became clear. Returning to repeat third year I detested the place. I got through it because of my good friends but returning this year after they have graduated, the prospect of a fifth freshers week after four tumultuous years, is not exactly filling me with joy.

I mulled over this in the weeks coming up to the magazine as submissions began to come in. In the issue we take a fresh perspective on the fickle nature of our hatred toward each other in Sinead Baker’s Red Hot interview with Thomas Knights. We visited the Amish of Waterford to find out about their old-fashioned life and what we could learn anew from it. We also asked the five sabbats, often lauded as holding the highest ‘positions’ in Trinity, to look at their own four years afresh. Here you’ll read sweet sentiments, funny anecdotes. regrets and a multitude of difficulties that show that, far from the shiny image we are portrayed, your four years of college can be just as difficult and as complex as for those we perceive to be at the top of their game. And finally we hear the story of Salem, who came all the way from bomb-shelled Gaza to Trinity College.

This content was selected not just because of its quality but as editor I get the special privilege of selecting what suits me. And these four features are for me a sweet example of the lessons I need to incorporate into my own fresh perspective of Trinity in the coming year; to see the petty ways we judge each other and the benefits of throwing them off. That I am in no way unique in the struggles or difficulties faced in college, even the best of us have problems that are unique to us all and finally, to stop complaining; there are far worse off than me and far more grateful.

So I decided to take my own advice and take a fresh perspective on my final year. And in that same vein, we also solved the Zardoz problem. We decided to take the ugly old thing we were tired of looking at, and add a silver border lining.

ZARDOZ ILLUSTRATION | LAURA FINNEGAN FRAME ILLUSTRATION | CAOILAINN SCOULER

12

What’s inside...

4 7 8 12 14 16 18 20 22

Dear Fresher Me From Gaza To Trinity The Irish Amish Red Hot Music Food & Drink Fashion Film & TV Society

8 14

17

“

Credit where credit is due:

These are the days, We are The Times...

“ 3

Rachel Lavin Editor-in-Chief

Jane Fallon Griffith Deputy Editor

Caelan Rush Creative Director

Benedict Shegog Photography & Illustrations Editor

Orla Conway Music Editor

Robert Greene Food Editor

Carla King-Molina Fashion Editor

William Bailey Film Editor

Clementine Yost Contributing Editor

Katie Bryne | Education Officer Dear Fresher Me,

waste your energy. You'll make so many absolutely unbelievable friends you literally won't understand how you've been so lucky. Concentrate on them and forget the rest!

Don't be hungover for you I.D. Card picture! It will haunt you for 5 years!!!

Not that Fresher me would even listened to any advice I have to give, no one ever does! "Don't leave all your study until 2 weeks for exams!", "make sure to go and meet your tutor", "attend lectures and take notes!" . . . All of the advice I was given and things I was told that I did not pay any attention to.

Maybe don't shift that Brazilian, glandular fever is no craic.

Your going to fail second year, STUDY! . . . It did kind of work out in the end but stress of your life! And it costs so much cash dollah.

Getting involved with the SU and societies is so scary but don't give up. It's one of the best things you'll ever do and you'll meet some of the most wonderful people.

Generally speaking I'd say the next five years won't always be easy but it will eventually be worth it. There will be days when you will very seriously think of giving up, you'll even fill out the paperwork at one stage. But you'll get through it and, I think, be all the better for it.

Learn how to budget. Spending your grocery money on shots is not the best idea you've ever had and you'll be eating pasta and pesto for a week!

For specific advice. Oh God. so many things. When the doctor said you can't drink with TB medication, she wasn't joking! Don't do it, your liver won't thank you.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Depression is crap and it sucks that you have to deal with it but ignoring it will make things so much worse! Tell your friends.

They love you so much and will be there for you every step of the way. Talk to your parents, they worry about you and not keeping them in the loop just isn't fair. Making that trip to the health centre and the counselling service will be one of the worst days of your life but one of the best things you'll ever do!

Go on the library tour. It will be the end of second year before you figure it out if not. Also you’re not good at renewing books, this will cost you! Maybe best you don't take them out!

Your maths tutorial is actually on the 2nd floor of the arts block. And turns out you probably should have taken the time to find it.

Be patient with yourself, you can't expect to figure it all out straight away.

You'll make mistakes, you'll mess up and you'll have regrets. You’re human, unfortunately, that's just life! Learn from it and let it go.

Don't worry about making a fool of yourself. The loss of your dignity is inevitable, don't try to fight it! Remember, everyone else is a disaster too!

Most of all, enjoy it! The 5 years will fly by and you will have changed so much by the time you're through. While at times you might feel lost and confused, like you don't know what you’re doing or where you’re going, but rest assured, at the end of the day, you'll get through and, I think, turn out just fine.

Don't worry so much about what other people think of you. It's their business, not yours, and there is sweet f all you can do about it anyway do don't

4

Domhnall McGlacken-Byrne | President 5 Be gentle with yourself. You are neither as stupid as you feel nor as smart as you wish. (You are, however, a nerd, whether you hide it or not. You might as well accept this now and move on.)

6 If you happen to be standing in Front Square or the Arts Block as you read this first edition of the University Times, look around you, look at all the people, all doing something or meeting someone or going somewhere. Don’t worry! They are most likely not doing anything or meeting anyone and, like you, the only place they are planning to go is the jacks to eat their lunch.

7 Please, save your work as you go. Please, back up your notes on a USB key.

And please, do not keep jugs of water near your laptop.

8 You are going to spend a good deal of Second Year studying for and then recovering from Schols. Unfortunately, you are going to fall short. Though you might feel like it has been an immense waste of time and effort (see point 7), everything is alright. Apart from having to live in Bray for another few years, nothing has changed and you are still you.

9 Your instincts are in fact correct: you should go for Class Rep. (In retrospect, I suspect that this may prove to be one of your better snap decisions.)

10 Be yourself.

Dear Fresher Domhnall, 2014 Domhnall here. I have 10 pieces of advice I really need you to remember.

1 First things first: In the next week or so, you are going to go shopping in search of some hip and trendy college clothing. However, beware! That pair of corduroy trousers is cheap for a reason. Do not buy them. Cords are neither hip nor trendy. People in Trinity do not wear cords. Nobody wears cords.

(Actually, as a general rule, just don’t go shopping by yourself at all. Ideally make friends with a girl at some stage and maybe she will help you.)

2 It might not feel like it yet, but Trinity is a very special place and you are very lucky to be here. Possibility and opportunity extend out before you in every direction you look, and never again will you find yourself at this crossroads.

3 Go to lectures. You are not allowed to complain that your course is boring if you are at home playing Tetris.

4 I know it’s annoying, but try not to get too impatient with the lack of facial hair. I’ll keep you posted, but sadly it looks like we’ve another few years to wait yet. I’m currently setting my sights on Movember 2018.

Ian Mooney | Welfare Officer Oh my first year self, how you make me cringe. You have stained my memory with many black spots of regret over the last four years. But if I could go back and tell you to do things any differently, would I? Let’s discuss....

What actually happens is you suddenly became weak in the knees and a little faintly as you look out into that crowd of my peers all staring at you. I still vividly remember you forgetting everything you planned on saying and eventually half- jokingly promised to run around the cricket pitch naked out of desperation of something to say. You eventually come to accept that it was probably the most awkward speech ever given to a class ever.

I know that one of your (my?) darkest secrets was that medicine was our dream and UCD was in fact where we wanted to do it. You didn’t want to be there, you didn’t want to do that course but what choice did you have? Try the leaving cert for the 3rd time? Nah. Wasn’t happening. Still, when you headed into college to begin four years of Science in Trinity that first day of Freshers’ Week you were feeling mighty resentful.

But then something incredible happens. When you walk through Front Arch at 11 am you will find yourself in an atmosphere that could only be described as a cross between Narnia, Hogwarts and a Will Farrell film. It will take you by complete surprise and guess what? You will love it.

But hey, you get back on that horse and decided to give societies a go. Your confidence may have waned but your determination to get involved is still strong. You decide on VDP Prison Soccer. Sure, it sounded amazing! And so you signed up for it. Out to Mount Joy you went. Out to play some football with some new people and have a bit of fun.

What could go wrong? Well, quite a lot apparently.

You see, I know you were a very shy, quiet and awkward fellow in Secondary School. Looking over that sentence, I realise, 4 years on, that not much has changed in the way of descriptions but I’m much less so now. But when you saw that Freshers’ Week madness in Front Square for the first time, you made a promise to yourself that you were going to get over your fear of the world and get involved as much as you could.

Not only do you never get to play soccer that day, but, very long story short, you are arrested for attempting to smuggle a mobile phone into a prison, and are officially banned from Mount Joy. For first year Ian, Prison soccer is disbanded for the foreseeable future.

If there was word to describe your experience in college, it would be awkward. But over time you will learn that this isn’t a bad thing. It is just a thing.

I’m able to look back on now and laugh at. I realised that College wasn’t just about getting a degree but rather it was about that old cliché of getting some life experience. About meeting new people and trying new things. A lot of bad was going to come with the good and that was okay because in the end you (or should I say I) learned a lot from it. I met some amazing people because of it. Had some wonderful adventures. Did things I never thought I could do and saw people do things they never thought they could do either.

You got very lucky in those first few weeks. First few hours in fact. You will meet your first good friend solely because you will hold the door open for him on the way to our general orientation meeting and are both as awkward as each other. Ye will set out together to make friends and that ye will! But then the cockiness will set in...

You will decide to run for class rep. You decide that your very first time public speaking would be in front of 300 students in Goldsmith and you decide it’s going to be the best damn off the cuff speech since the Gettysburg Address.

You even decide that you are going to do it wearing a suit jacket and tie.

So if I could tell you, my first year self, to do anything differently and prevent those black spots from happening, would I? Not a chance. You’ll learn from everything, good and bad.

These are bad decisions.

5

Finn Murphy | Ents Officer Dear Fresher Me,

going on that you weren't bothered to see and so many people in the exact same boat as you just looking to find their place in a new community. It's this moment when you’ll truly feel like you've made the right decision in coming to Trinity.

In fairness that was all a bit sappy. You may have become a bit of a sap; it's probably for the best. So now that you're starting all over again remember this advice. Go to everything! Rugby, rowing, debating. Give it a try at least! Your work load will never be as low as it is over the next few months, if you don't try things now it'll be a lot harder down the line. Trips. Go on as many as possible sailing, surfing and skiing if you can. Trips are melting pots of communities in Trinity, you'll get to meet more people on one weekend away then you will in a month in college. Finally, don't be afraid to change course. You're not going to be unhappy 3 years from now but you certainly know you don't want to be a Mechanical Engineer. It takes a lot of guts to change your mind but it's a lot easier now then it will be in 12 months and by then you'll probably just settle.

Go sit in on the BESS lectures or grab a coffee with someone in Law. Go speak to a lecturer in the Science department. If you do these things then at least 3 years from now when you're asked to write an article for the UTzine you'll be confident in your decision and never have to ask yourself 'what it I had moved to…'

Also enjoy Fresher's Week. It's the best.

You're really not very cool. You might think you are, but Dublin secondary school life is over. You might think you know all the best places to go in town.

You think there's absolutely zero chance that your best friends in the future are likely to come from Cavan, Colorado and Belfast. You also think Nando's is the best restaurant on the face of the earth, this in retrospect is pretty unforgivable.

What you're going to do is spend the next 3 months going to the same clubs, eating the same food and hanging out with the same people that you have for the last 6 years. I'm not saying it's not going to be fun, but come January you're going to regret everything you missed out on. You'll regret missing the first Surf Sail Salmon because your mate from Terenure was having a gaff. You'll regret missing out on the Fresher's Ball because Palace was the place to be, (pretty unforgivable as well). Most of all, you'll regret not going to a single lecture because you thought you looked at the subjects and said 'Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Intro to blah blah, I've done all these before.' Note now; most of what you've been taught in secondary school is lies.

You're going to have an epiphany in January. You'll book a space on the Ski Trip having no idea if you'll know a single person on it. It will probably be one of the best decisions you make in college. You'll realise that there was so much

Samuel Riggs | Communications Officer Dear Fresher Me,

ana Grande, and that is 100% okay: blare it as loud as possible. And if someone says “Ugh, you like THAT?!”, tell them to fuck off.

I thought for ages about the things I’d want to say to you, and the advice I’d give you, and what pearls of wisdom I could impart on your young and incredibly naive self. But there’s actually genuinely not much I can say to you - you’re doing great. Looking back, I am genuinely so proud of you. You’ve come so far and you’ve fought so hard and you’ve done things that you never thought you would. You have defied every ounce of self-doubt and self-loathing that you let take advantage of you when you were a teenager. You are a fucking triumph, if I do say so myself.

Don’t settle for less. Don’t let anyone tell you your feelings aren’t valid. Don’t go out with boys that are emotionally abusive and manipulative - if they say something like “I’ll do x if you don’t do y”, they almost certainly are, and you need to run away very fast and don’t look back.

Call your mum and Skype your dad - they’re rooting for you and they like to hear from you. Independence is great and everything, and around the end of your second year you’re going to get an amazing job and life will become so much easier financially and socially. But you need these two people in your life who are never going to judge you, no matter how many hickies you come home with, or if you overspend your budget every now and again.

Don’t idolize people. People are flawed, and so often you’re going to defer your judgement to others, who you’ll look up to because they’re in positions of authority. Listen to your own judgement,

I know that right now, four years ago, it doesn’t seem that it’s all going to go so well. You are an anxious ball of nerves, and all the boys that you’re living with seem scary. Halls is a weird place, and everyone is so drunk, and you’ve never really been properly drunk in your life (that’s going to change so fast). And you’re so hungry for friends - you’re going to make them in spades in just a few weeks. I wish I could tell you to not be so afraid. But once you get over this first week, things start looking up.

I do have a few helpful words though, to make the next few years easier.

Don’t be such a bitch about not getting that society position. Take a week, drink lots of wine, be sad about it and then get stuck back in. Because you’ll regret all the moping you’ll do, and you’ll have a really bleak summer of commuting and being hateful, and that’s just no craic at all.

‘Don’t give a fuck’. If I could travel back in time and grab you by the shoulders and shake you until that goes in to your stubborn head, I would. Don’t give a fuck about what anyone says or thinks about you - you are funny (even if only you find yourself funny sometimes) and marvelous. Don’t let self-doubt become a feature of your personality.

More so than anything else, love every minute. Revel in it, languish in the feelings of being absolutely and totally accepted. Love who you are, and every single weird facet of your personality. When people turn to you and say “You’re a little weird”, smile, nod and say thank you. Because if you can’t love yourself, how will somebody else?

Don’t waste time pretending to like bad music - don’t pretend to enjoy something that’s shit just to make friends. You like Nicki Minaj and Beyoncé and Ari-

6

From Gaza to Trinity Salem S. Gharbia After my first day of in Trinity College, the university which I had always dreamt about, I walked through Dublin's streets on the way to my warm house. During this twenty-minute trip I could feel the buildings, streets, blocks and everything in my way, as though they were speaking to me, telling me about the history of freedom they have witnessed. And then it started to ask me about my story. Encouraged home with a nice shower of windy rain I arrived to my room and laid on my bed and started to replay the journey to Trinity College in my mind.

It is six months since I saw the advertisement for The Usher Award on the Trinity College website. I told myself it was the unique chance to get my Trinity College dream. As fast as I could, I prepared all the papers, contacted my professor who supervised me during my PhD studies in Environmental Engineering and then with everything ready I submitted my application. With ease and grace, at last my Trinity College applications for both a scholarship and a PhD degree were submitted. A few weeks passed since the submission day and every night I counted the days to get my applications result.

In the middle of June, a letter informed me that I had gotten accepted, with a scholarship offer from Trinity College. This was a wonderful and exciting day and with renewed confidence I submitted my visa application to the Irish embassy. This takes about five weeks but during these days the situation in Gaza became very hard.

My hometown is in the heart of Gaza city. During a normal day, which is one without any bombing, killing, shelling and blood, there is a warm sunny beach near my quiet house. Gaza beach is crowded with happy, naughty and full energetic children in the summer time; there is a lot of peace, fun and playing. But on the other hand, during the bombardment it became a bloody time. Gaza's children, instead of playing on the beach and eating ice cream were killed and their hopes and dreams killed before them. In Gaza there is no minimum limit of resources to survive on; you have to struggle for food, water and electricity. It is very easy to lose your soul just because you want to get a liter of water for your frightened child. You may get killed looking for the little amount of wood you need to collect to cook poor food for your family. Gaza is a place that where no one and no place is safe. Your life is at risk all the time.

During these five weeks as I waited in Gaza there was non-stop grieving, lamenting, wailing, weeping and struggling every moment. I fool others with my strength and steadfastness while a hidden feeling warns me that my end is yet to come. I fear that I may become a faceless statistic for a displaced people. I can hardly sleep because I fear I could wake up to the worst.

lege acceptance letter. It took a further two days of hard, dangerous and exhausting travel to reach Cairo airport. After four hours of night flying I arrived to Istanbul airport as a transit station for my trip and spent about eight hours there waiting my plane to Dublin. It it took another four hours of morning flying until the plane finally landed safely in Dublin Airport.

Eventually, I arrived to Dublin airport where the immigration officer asked me about my reason to be in Ireland. With a proud heart, I showed him my offer letter from Trinity College, as if it was a VIP card.

The last trip was a Dublin bus from the airport to the city center in order to cross the threshold into Front Square of Trinity College. Finally, I had arrived to the old prestigious wooden gate of Trinity College. For the first moment, I felt myself in an imaginary world such as Harry Potter’s magic school but then in the back of my mind, I could not hide the feelings of astonishment on my face as I stepped through Front Arch at last.

However, under this entire painful situation and in one short ceasefire, I got news that my visa to Ireland had been granted. All this time my Trinity College dream was a thread of hope in my life and once granted and without deep thinking, I decided to travel from Gaza to Dublin in order to make it a reality.

Not long after I arrived a ceasefire was agreed in Gaza but I worry that it is not stable; I worry about my family, my friends and my neighbors. I worry that people in Gaza are still in a big prison, under the suffocating and humiliating siege without any access to clean water, electricity or food. I left Gaza during the hard time with my hope that I will come back bringing with me the sufficient knowledge to help my oppressed people there.

We have to overcome our situation; we want to live in a dignified, happy life.

However, I would have to struggle until my feet finally crossed the threshold into Front Square. My journey to Trinity College from Gaza was long and arduous.

I arrived at the Rafah crossing into Egypt on August ,6th. After four days waiting in a congested and humiliating queue and during a brief ceasefire I was allowed through on August 10th, by showing my Trinity Col-

But for me, right now I am a PhD student in Trinity College, the place which is a home to some of the most talented minds and most influential researchers in the world. For me Trinity College is the most prestigious and the best place to get knowledge in order to help solve the water crisis in the oppressed Gaza, the place which I left behind me. That will be my next dream.

7

The Irish Amish A visit to the Amish-Mennonites of Dunmore East Words | Rachel Lavin Photography | Benedict Shegog

Tucked away in the hillside of Dunmore East in Waterford is a little known community called ‘The Christian Fellowship’. Comprised of little more than a shop, a church, a school and a collection of modest bungalows passerby’s may be unaware, only for the sight of the trademark veiled woman or a bearded man in old-fashioned clothing, that they are in fact, passing through Ireland’s only Amish community.

who were taking their bible study in the main church and begin another part of the service, by a visiting American pastor and after a final round of hymns we break for lunch. The women begin to hastily begin to prepare lunch; a large potluck dinner for the whole congregation and the men lay out large tables in the back end of the hall.

A warm motherly figure named Barbara approaches me to welcome me and invites me to eat. A generous buffet has been laid out and after struggling with what to select, I settle on a plateful of meatballs and rice dishes, meat casseroles and spiced pickles and vegetables, and we sit and tuck in. Barbara’s husband Pastor Dan joins us. A softly spoken and contemplative man, he is one of the original members of the Amish community which was was founded little more than twenty years ago. Lead by William McGrath, an ex-army intelligence officer who had converted to the Mennonite religion after a crisis of faith during world war two, he went on to travel widely, setting up Mennonite churches all over the world, including Costa Rica, Germany and Switzerland but his pet project was to bring a Mennonite church to his ancestor’s homeland and that he finally did ,in setting up ‘The Christian Fellowship’ in Dunmore East in 1992.

Normally relatively closed off from the modern world and reluctant to interact with the media, I am grateful for the chance to be joining them for their monthly Sunday celebration in which the entire community of 75 comes together for a day of activities. It begins, unsurprisingly, with mass. We pull up outside the local center which functions as a church, school and eating hall just in time for the 10.30 services. Outside families are entering the hall with their children all dressed in the traditional Amish dress; full-length dresses and cardigans, white veils pinned to cleanly pinned hair and bearded men in crisp white and black shirts and waistcoats. I feel as though I’ve stepped into an episode of little house on the prairie.

My photographer Ben and I are welcomed warmly by the leading Pastor, Daniel Yoder and are quickly shown to the main hall for the service which is about to begin. I am ushered to the women’s side of the church and am met with a sea of smiles and welcomes amongst the rows of white veils. The only clue that I am in anyways an outsider is the little girl sitting in front of me, proceeds to turn and stare at me for the majority of the service, suspiciously eyeing up every detail; from my unruly curly hair to my thick black glasses, my bright patterned scarf, then my chipped nail varnish and my scuffed black boots. Least to say, she doesn’t look incredibly impressed.

However, William needed to populate this select community in a ‘land of strangers’. Pastor Dan who grew up Amish, came to the Amish-Mennonite settlement with his wife Barbara in 1996 for one simple reason, ‘I was asked’.

Knowing they were needed the couple moved over, but with no official community center or even community of houses for them to live in they found themselves renting in the city, a far cry from where they grew up in the rural Amish town of AppleCreek in Maryland.

We begin the sermon, as directed by the pastor with a series of hymns. I am handed a thick hymn book of over 500 hymns and, on the suggestions of the congregation they go through about five hymns picked at random, all in perfect harmony. Their singing is as angelic as it is complex, with not a bum note in earshot. I decide to lip sync.

This was a ‘huge change’ Dan recalls. “I had always lived in the country and now I was living in a housing estate in the city. Young people used to drink outside, it was very difficult. It took us three years to find a house’.

As more families moved over they moved into more houses in the same area and the community developed, eventually making a small local rural area in Dunmore East their own.

The pastor begins with a short service and then everyone rises for bible study.

The children and women move to separate rooms, where we sit around in a circle and introduce ourselves. There are about fifteen Amish women and all but one of the Amish women have American accents. (she is South American).

They begin with offers to testify. There are some suggestions for relations teaching in a settlement in Ukraine, a prayer for Susan, who is heading back to her own home settlement in America after two years and an offer to bulk order some oats from the North if anyone wants some.

Since finding their feet in Dunmore East the community is now firmly established as Ireland’s first Amish-Mennonite community made up of 70-75 people. The community is made up of Amish and Mennonites from mainly America, Poland and Ukraine. There is also one Welsh family, who converted to the Mennonite way in recent years after becoming increasingly exasperated with the Anglican church.

We then begin the bible study class and between reading sections and analyzing them as we go I can’t help but feel as though I’m back in an English literature tutorial such is the steadfastness and concentration with which the women read and interpret the passage. Lead by an older woman with a kind softly-spoken voice, she deduces from our passage ‘that we are not to follow earthly beings or worldly goods, but to follow God and his message only’. The others nod in agreement and although I was skeptical as to what new I could learn at bible study this little snippet provided me with an interesting context for the rest of the day.

Here, the men and wome follow traditional roles, with the women rimarily care-givers and homemakers while the men mostly work in blue collar jobs, such as carpenters, blacksmiths, plumbers and shopkeepers. Although men are the main breadwinners, Dan explains the men try to do flexible jobs that allow them to stay at home as much with the family. The community have set up a co-operative business near their homes, which includes a grocery shop, a bakery, a book shop and a wooden furniture store.

‘The shop helps us to get to know the people.’ Says Dan’s wife Barbara. ‘This way they know we are not hidden behind cloister walls’.

We return to the service at the same time as the children and rejoin the men

Indeed, the public are welcome to attend their weekly mass and are invited

8

to ‘come as you are’ and from speaking to friends in Waterford beforehand it appears that they are a well respected and liked group, through locals dealing with the shop. Of course their famed baking, especially the granola and carrot cake, has helped. The Amish are also famed for what they do whenever a local death occurs. Locals will tell of how during their bereavement a group from the Amish community would turn up to their house and wash their windows and clean their gardens unasked. This practical assistance in times of need has warmed this otherwise foreign outpost to the hearts of the locals and earned them a strong respect in the nearby communities.

perhaps most famed for living without modern technology. Pastor Dan who grew up Amish, admits that the devout Amish ‘live a hard life with no electricity or phone’ but that in the Waterford Amish Mennonite settlement, which is more liberal in it’s belief system, he says ‘we have more modern conveniences’. Indeed, the extent of how much they shun the applications of the modern world was initially confusing to me. I had specifically avoided bringing my laptop to take notes given my assumptions about the Amish being anti-technology so am more than a little surprised to see the pastor opening his laptop mid-sermon, connecting it to a projector and preceding to give a PowerPoint presentation on ‘grace’. This happens at multiple times throughout the day, where an i-pad is whipped out to show children a photo during story-time or a laptop is gathered around to show photos of friends abroad.

But while the Amish are open to interacting with the locals and having them join them for their religious and social celebrations, they will not compromise their own values or ways in order to become involved in the community. Instead they keep a careful distance, observing the modern world from afar. For example, Dan explains they will keep politically aware but as the Mennonites are pacifists they will not vote. Similarly, while they observe local laws they do not make use of them personally. For internal disputes Dan admits that ‘we tend to settle it ourselves as we would be reluctant to go to the legal system. We may try to resolve it ourselves and then ask for someone from the US or other Mennonite communities to come in as mediators and counselors.

Thankfully though this doesn’t happen very often’. When it comes to outsiders committing a crime upon them, even then Dan admits they don’t press charges. Unfortunately however, they’re peaceful nature has been the subject of several robberies in their local shop. Dan explains in that case we go to the local Gardai but we see these crimes as a moral or spiritual problem. Even with outsiders, we don’t involve the law in trying to put them in jail or for legal justice but more to help that person. As a younger man, Wendall explains ‘we don’t see it as our job to do justice, That’s God’s job’ Dan explains ‘We would not press charges and failing that we would let the law take it’s course but seek restorative justice.’

Here, Dan explains, the members do have cars, and live in modest bungalows.

They read newspapers, listen to music on cd players and use the internet and phones. But their use of these modern appliances is done with a studied carefulness and is limited to the role it plays in their spiritual goals. They use newspapers to keep aware of modern world affairs but take no interest in politics or modern culture. They use communications, but mainly to stay in contact with other Amish-Mennonite communities and for daily conveniences.

Barbara explains that, ‘with each new technology coming out we question if we need it or not, if it furthers our cause and adheres to our morals’. Dan continues saying ‘We are not just a back to earth community, nor do we live this way because of the quaint lifestyle it evokes. Rather it is a spiritual motivation’.

As long as the modern technology does not interfere with their spiritual goals then they will decide to absorb it into their lifestyle. Strict control however is asserted when using the modern inventions in this way. The Waterford Amish shun T.V. and radio but will watch selected films or play. CD’s. This is because as Dan explains ‘this way you choose what you are exposed to’. What they are avoiding is modern popular culture, something they consider full of sinful distractions and unnecessary frivolities.

As well as operating under their own framework of what is just, the Amish are

9

This pointed modesty is reflected in their clothing. Dan who is wearing a closed collar black suit, much like the Beatles wore in the sixties, and a white shirt with no tie, explains ‘I don’t wear neck ties, as what’s the purpose, I don’t see the value and so choose a closed collar’.

program. Families will also be involved in the counseling progress and Wendall is hoping he can expand the program in future. He says that in America the programs have seen an 80% success rate in improving the lives of troubled youths and he admits. he sees a change in the three boys he is working with now. I propose it is perhaps a bit extreme but Wendall believes it is a setting that limits distractions and allows them to solve problems in an intensive setting, teaching them both how to be independent while at the same time learning the value of dependence. Wendall stresses that although the camps are ran by the Mennonites they are not trying to convert the boys in their care. He says ‘The camps have a simple approach. It is not tremendously technical. Our goal is to equip the boy with the goals to tackle the challenges of daily life. That model then enables them to go and share’.

When I ask Barbara about the trademark veils and modest dress of the Amish women, she explains that this is for one of two reasons. ‘The veils are scriptural as the bible talks about women being covered and our goal is to be as close to biblical as we can. They symbolize the submission to the head, that is both Jesus and our husbands, a view I know is not popular in the modern world. ‘she acknowledges, ‘But for us modestly is a high priority. It is also because of the angels’ she adds. Without the veil it opens us up to sinful influences. Without it we wouldn’t feel right, it offers us spiritual protection’.

By stripping back society and highlighting the importance of self-reliance, the benefits of social dependence and survival in order to correct a person’s anti-social behavior, hypothetically at least the camps do make sense. And if that is the case, who better to teach the basic components of a good living than the Amish? Away from all the complications and distractions of modern life, both worlds offer serious space for introspection and an evaluation of the basic values at play in our day-to-day lives.

In relationt to her homemade dress, Barbara explains they are ‘trying to be practical’ It is important to cover the body and not to reveal. She continues ‘Most fashion is to attract attention but we believe that is wrong from a moral aspect as it encourages vanity and (clothes are) for modesty.’

In determining the value of any cultural norm, they first question, ‘what is the end goal?’ As Dan explains ‘Our goal is to be pleasing to God. The Grace of God teaches us how to live modestly and with purpose. Not just to live for the pleasure of the sense or to do what feels good at the moment. There is no lasting value there, it destroys rather than builds.’ Abstaining from modern hedonism seems to be one of their core ideals and is made easy within a community of like-minded people. But outside the community, the vices are boundless. Dan admits that when the youth are leaving for study or travel that ‘it’s a challenge and a big change when they’re away from home. They don’t do that carelessly though. For example Richard, a young man who is moving to England that week t do an apprenticeship as a blacksmith, is going to live with the Mennonite family near his college, what Dan calls a ‘safe environment’.

Otherwise, he explains ‘We would be reluctant to have him going to Dublin if there was no regular contact with a Mennonite family.’

For the final part of the Sunday celebrations, we move indoors for the entertainment section of the evening. We begin with several rounds of hymns, story telling for the children and the young men and women sing an array of songs, what the leading guy, probably around my age, calls ‘something fun and different’ but still sounds very similar to me. Apparently musical instruments are banned so relying to the pure grace of their voices they offer us the full capabilities of their vocal range.

During their songs I notice a timeline that is placed on the wall, looping the entire room. On closer inspection it outlines a series of world political and cultural events with everything from when A. A. Milne wrote Winnie the Pooh to the fall of the Berlin Wall. All these are mere flicks along a thick black line that flows from Adam and Eve to the establishment of the Mennonites in Europe, their eventual escape from persecution to America and their current return, with the founding of Dunmore East proudly marked along it. Apparently it was a school project they forgot to take down and is the only thing other than a wooden crucifix that adorns the church hall. It seems however that the timeline is an adequate reflection on life here in the Amish Mennonite world. Their spiritual goals, beginning with the bible are their driving force and the central goal, which they live for, symbolized in that continuous thick black line.

Meanwhile, the modern world and passing times and cultural trends, inventions and technologies are just tiny blips on their radar. Life here is much the same as it was 500 years ago when the Mennonites began their new way of life. There is something soothing in that. They may not have the adventure of changing times but they do not have the burden either. Whether you believe in their religion or not, to see a group of people so committed to one way of life, so unconcerned with the trends and changes of our time really brings into question the generational trends and cultural changes we take on to value so easily. Young people today seem to pick and choose morals and lifestyles from a variety of cultures and religions but seem more lost than ever. Hedonism, narcissism and materialism are such a key part of the modern world but are they making us happy? By the time I’m ready to leave, Dan’s words ‘what is the practical purpose, what is the end goal?’ are ringing in my ear.

When I ask about those who choose to leave the Amish way completely Dan admits ‘Most choose to stay but not necessarily everyone. It is naturally difficult. Thankfully we have six so far (referring to his own children) and all have chosen to stay in the church. Were they to leave however he says ‘we would generally maintain quite close contact, but I suppose it is individual to each family. Most stay on friendly terms’.

We are suddenly alerted to the fact that both Dan and I are the last two in the hall still eating, as we had been so deep in conversation The rest of the community has moved outside and are enjoying their desserts in the last of the summer sun. Talking and laughing quietly they watch the children, who, ranging from as young as three or four to ten or twelve, are making a great lot of use of three wooden sticks. Between limbos and high jumps they constantly restructure them inventing new ways to play. There seems to be no limit to the level they could amuse themselves with just these three wooden sticks. As the parents look on, I notice how there is a great sense of calm here and it seems the biggest concern of the members for the rest of the day is enjoying good food, the warm weather and each others company in this small rural community.

As separated as they are from the modern world, the community does seek to give something back to their new homeland in terms of civic duty. Outside I meet with Wendall a young enthusiastic man in his thirties who tells me about Camp Comeragh which he is setting up with the help of the local community in the nearby village of Rathcormack. The wilderness camps are based on an American model that aims to help anti-social and troubled youths. Having gotten the HSE and social services on board the camp takes private placements of troubled youths from struggling families and, run by specially trained members of the Dunmore East communities, they aim to help young boys through anti-social behavior and personal problems by setting them up to live independently in the wilderness for six week periods over the course of a year.

We finish the day with some final few hymns, or what for me is further lip syncing and then the crowd gradually start to clear up and get ready for home. Taking this as my que to leave I gather my things and say my thanks. At the door I bump into Rachel, a girl about my age and out of curiosity as we chat I casually quiz her on the depth of her knowledge on certain current events and pop culture. Do you know who Barack Obama is? Yes. Enda Kenny? Yes. Facebook ?

Yes, some members even have it. How about selfies? Yes, but she’s never taken one. Hmm I see my lift pulling up so try to think of the most arbitrary popular thing my generation universally knows of. Just as she turns to leave, I settle on the perfect example.

Kim Kardashian?

Once admitted with the permission of the parents and co-operation of the teen bot, they will be set up in the forest with little more than two self-constructed huts they build up themselves and with two male councilors for daily guidance and counseling. They will be living in a group of lads with similar problems and , in a highly intense framework, will be taught the basics of problem-solving and co-operating, goal setting and personal organization. Meals are made five days a week in a dining cabin by a cook but for two days each week the boys must plan their own meal and fend for themselves, cooking their meals over a fire. So far two have completed the course in full and three are currently in the

Rachel turns innocently and says ‘oh I’m sorry, I don’t really know much about Irish history and legends’ and saying her goodbyes rushes off back to a world where Kim Kardashian could well have been Cuchulainn’s girlfriend for all she cares.

Perhaps I wonder as I leave the Amish settlement behind, in some senses they may be better off.

10

11

RED HOT AN INTERVIEW WITH PHOTOGRAPHER THOMAS KNIGHTS SINÉAD BAKER It’s rare that a premise as simple as an exhibition full of photos of beautiful men can challenge any of our society’s assumptions, but the RED HOT exhibition has put a groundbreaking twist on the usual creative exercise of capturing beautiful people: using only red-headed men as models.

resentations of red-headed men. I want to see a major red-headed superhero, or a Bond, who is essentially the ultimate man.”

That’s the message of Red Hot - that ginger men aren’t as often depicted in our movies and our films, and that ginger males should take pride in themselves: “If you make the thing you’re bullying about desirable then you sort of defunct the whole argument from their end. So, that was the thinking, making it alpha-male, sexy and heroic, and all these sorts of things. The whole sort of anti-bullying message is actually purposefully put to the back of the mind, and it’s done subconsciously. You go to the exhibition and you see all these hot guys staring down at you from the walls, and your mind is shifted immediately through the imagery, the sex quality, rather than you being bombarded with an anti-bullying message. And I think that was the thinking behind it, keeping it sexy. It’s really intensely sexy, and it’s really intensely hot, and it’s really intensely over the top.

And it’s because of this immediacy, that see the amount of hot ginger guys all together at the same time, that it’s quite an overwhelming experience – some people said they didn’t realise you could even get good looking ginger men! It’s purposefully done in a sort of overt and a quite affronting way, most of them are looking directly into the camera, directly at the viewer, and their look is often quite sexy and confident, almost god-like in pose, and that’s all purposefully done.”

For Thomas Knight, the photographer behind the exhibition, red-headed men in our culture “are typically portrayed as re-masculated and de-sexualised” and he aims to capture the sense that ginger men can be strong, sexy and desirable, and that the red-headed man can indeed be the hero. In essence, Knights aims to “rebrand the ginger male stereotype”.

Knights has managed to immerse himself in almost every creative enterprise.

He has seen success as a singer, music producer and filmmaker who has produced videos for the likes of Marina and The Diamonds, Labrinth and Tony Bennett and has had photos featured in Dazed and Confused, Marie Claire and Vogue Italia. But RED HOT is his first solo exhibition as a photographer.

What is perhaps most powerful when looking at RED HOT is the experiences of the models themselves. The men, strikingly handsome and undeniably sexy, have faced discrimination simply due to their hair colour. The RED HOT 100, the art book of the RED HOT exhibition, will feature quotes from the models featured, including a testimony from model and Olympic Gold medallist Greg Rutherford, who explains that, “the fact that I’m ginger is mentioned in every walk of life…“being a ginger” is still a tolerable snub by supposedly mature adults and children alike.”

The issue here is not that some gingers have can face discrimination: people are taunted for anything from the clothes they wear to their address – but that this particular form of discrimination is rarely taken seriously and, of course, is perpetuated by popular culture. The fact of the matter is that prejudice is irrational, and humans focus on arbitrary aspects of our appearance, sexuality or nationality to seek out and punish others for.

Knights struggled to find models initially as demand for red-headed models and leading men is sparse. RED HOT, so far has raised over six thousand pounds for anti-bullying charities and Knights admits that: “I’d say maybe only 10% of the models could say that they’ve faced no problems. The general consensus is that all of them have faced problems as a direct result of their hair. One of the models was dying his hair blonde for ten years, until eventually sitting up and saying ‘I can’t live like this anymore.’ That he would live that way is absolutely mad.

Everyone says they’re surprised that the models could have faced problems due to their appearance. However bullying is still a massive problem for redheads in schools and that prejudice often doesn’t disappear as we grow, ”.

“What people need in life is something to put down, and this is what seems to be the way human nature is, we need something to put down – we need something that we don’t like, and makes us feel better about ourselves. We need something that’s allowed to happen, and this whole anti-ginger thing is sort of allowed and accepted socially. It’s great for people because they’re allowed to do it with a nudge and a smile and a wink and it’s all a laugh and it’s not usually vindictive, at least when you get to adult level. It’s just fun to be able to take the piss out of somebody. But in schools obviously it can be a lot more intense, and a lot more disruptive. It can be a real kind of discrimination and can lead to some awful situations for kids. Humans need this thing that they can put beneath them, to have a form of discrimination that is acceptable socially”.

At least in pop culture, this prejudice is mostly directed towards males.

Red-headed females “are presented as sexualised beings, the ‘ultimate woman’, the sexual goal. They are the Jessica Rabbits, the Nicole Kidmans.” Knight says “women are ‘fiery’, sexualised beings while males are failed to even be represented properly.” But for men “they act as comic relief. They’re emasculated and generally unattractive and serve to lighten up the darker themes. They’re quite weak, they’re not even powerful in a bad way. If anything they start off playing up to stereotypes”. Think Ron Weasey in Harry Potter or Fry in Futurama.

Knights explains he chose the ‘ginger’ example because, “It is the only white ‘other’. In society it is no longer okay to be publically racist or sexist, so instead we focus on whatever else stands out – here I’m focusing on red hair, freckles, pale skin … it’s sad, and it’s a weird reflection on human nature that we want something to be able to ridicule, and for that to be okay”.

Perhaps the lack of leading men with red hair is easily explained: “It’s a gamble for studios to even have a red-headed leading man. It could split the audience”.

Yet he maintains that “Hollywood does have a lot to answer for in their rep-

You can find out more about the Red Hot exhibition at www.redhot100.com.

12

13

music Gig Guide: Orla Conway Sunday 21st September – Saucy Sundays (with David BeZin, The Flaws, Staring At LAes, Darren Lynch and Robb Murphy) @ The Grand Social Tuesday 23rd September - The Fray (with Raglans supporting) @ Olympia Saturday 27th September – Alt J – The O2 (or 3Arena now!)

Saturday 27th September – Ekko Park @ The Grand Social October 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th – Ed Sheeran @ 3Arena If it’s not a concert that you’re after, here’s a club night that we’d suggest checking out: The Clubhouse which starts in The Grand Social on Thursday 25th September. With free admission and live band Gin N Juice playing hip hop and dance covers, it’s sure to be lots of fun Hard Working Class Heroes - Friday 2nd October - Sunday 4th October

Electric Picnic Review Aine O’Connell

Hard Working Class Heroes festival and convention is back for the twelfth year. The whole festival showcases the strength of Irish talent. Past acts include Hozier, Villagers, The Coronas, Delorentos among many, many others.

There are also conferences, mentor sessions, band tips and lots of other fun stuff for artists. This year’s line-up does not disappoint with: Vann Music, I Have A Tribe, Otherkin, The Boxing Plot, The Academic, and Spies among lots of others to play various venues around Dublin. Check out their site or else keep up to date with us as we lead up to the festival!

I’d love to be able to write an in-depth review of the madness that was Electric Picnic 2014, but it’s impossible to accurately explain the festival in a few hundred words. The weekend offered not only music, but spoken word, yoga, hot-tubs and a petting zoo. Welcome to Electric Picnic, where the real world fades away to be replaced by bright lights, bubbles and burgers.

On Friday, not too many must-see acts played – but the ones that did were cracking. Blondie, led by seventy year old Debbie Harry, managed to get me dancing for the first time that day. While I haven’t exactly followed the bands career since the 1970’s, can anyone resist songs like Maria, Heart of and Call Me? From what I heard in the campsite, Foals and Pet Shop Boys were fantastic, but for me, Friday night belonged to American madness merchant TuneYards. Pounding drums, shrieking-yet-rich vocals and a bouncing crowd, Merill Garbus’ crew lit up the Body and Soul stage. Pet Shop Who, again?

On Saturday, the line up of fantastic acts is dizzying. Hozier draws the biggest crowd I’ve ever seen. Portishead terrify and entrance me in equal measure with their ethereal, haunting performance. Chic shake off the Portishead blues by playing Bowie and their own groovy back catalogue. Groovy in the literal sense: there’s no way not to dance to this. Special mention as well for Paolo Nutini, who has re-jigged many of his older tunes to sound more soulful, melodic and beautiful. They fit perfectly along with songs like Iron Sky and Scream from his last album, and the whole set is a delight.

On Sunday, I could mention any number of acts again…Kelis, Outkast and Sinéad O’Connor to name but a few. But for me, Sunday – and indeed, the weekend – belonged to St. Vincent. She lit up the Electric Arena (sorry) with lilac hair, the loudest guitars of the weekend and a set that veered between beauty and insanity. St. Vincent sums up everything I love about the festival – it’s bold, it’s weird and it’s utterly incredible to be part of.

Is What It Feels Like are anything to go by this album is going to be a big deal.

Not bad for an artist who’s been active for little over 18 months.

September Soundtrack

As a Trinity student publication, we’re unfortunately forced to mention Trinity students now and again (sigh). With that in mind, there’s this guy called Andrew who used to go here, that’s got an album coming out apparently. He wrote some song about a church or something, it’s supposed to be heavily blues-influenced indie rock. Anyway, the album’s called Hozier (how do you even pronounce that?) and is out September 19. Probably won’t make any waves.

Greg Mangan Festival season is over. Wellies are thrown back in your shed. Shorts are at the bottom of your wardrobe. You’ve invested in a woolly jumper, stocked up on tea and you’re about to go into hibernation for the month on Billie Joe Armstrong’s orders. There’s basically nothing to look forward to until Christmas.

UNLESS of course you’re a fan of new music? Then this September seems to be the month when all of your stars have aligned and there’s an uncountable number of album releases.

Lastly we have English musical genii alt-J. Their album This Is All Yours is released September 22, and is a follow up to Mercury Prize winning debut An Awesome Wave by the now 3-piece. The album features Hunger of the Pine a song with an odd-fitting Miley Cyrus sample, and Left Hand Free a nonsensical radio-friendly track they confessed to making in 15 minutes to satisfy their label. The ever-weird and wonderful kings of alt-rock can also be seen in the O2/3Arena/Point/thingy at the end of the month.

Up first is dark, brooding LA singer BANKS with debut album Goddess released September 9. Gracing the stage at Longitude back in July, she enchanted the crowd with her pensive electronica. If single releases Brains and This

14

mented by the almost Antony and the Johnsons style of frailty in Liddle’s counter-tenor vocal.

Overall, complete with a production team of the likes of Charlie Hugall (Florence + The Machine) and Paul Savage (Mogwai), as well as working with Valgeir Sigurosson (Sigur Rós, Björk) to make for some of the more lavishly ambient string arrangements, the record exhibits a subtle but significant maturation from the band’s debut, and is bound to act a treat to both previous fans and curious folk looking for an introduction.

Interpol El Pintor Maurice Healy and Harry O’Cleirigh With Carlos D’s departure after Interpol’s eponymous fourth album, fans of the band must have worried how the absence of the post-punk outfit’s bassist would affect their musical output, and whether such a loss could be compensated. Heads too would have cocked at the release of frontman Paul Bank’s 2013 hip hop mixtape Everyone on my Dick Like They Supposed To Be, guitarist Daniel Kessler’s flirtation with the culinary world in the opening of his own restaurant and the bands decision to carry on as a trio, with Bank’s taking over bass duties on record. Yet it seems as though the years since 2010’s Interpol have treated the members well creatively. If you found it hard to warm to that albums oppressive reverb soaked malaise, then you might hail this as a return to form, the songs sounding as fresh and vital as anything on Antics.

But El Pintor is not merely a throwback. Interpol continue to progress, marrying the energy of their early releases with the maturity and restraint they have learned to apply to their songwriting in more recent years.

Alarms In The Heart Dry The River

The title El Pintor as an anagram of the band’s name is somewhat representative of the success of this album. With the loss of a member they have been forced to shuffle the deck, so to speak, and adapt their sound accordingly.

Many of the familiar components one loves about Interpol are here, having been rearranged in a more immediately accessible manner than heard in quite some time.

Leonard Buckley It’s always an exciting thing when a new band appears on the scene, especially when that band’s debut album has the capacity to lull such a large audience into adoration with no knowledge of what has gone before. But when that band announces a follow-up, one can’t help but wonder, how will it compare to such a monumental introduction?

Kessler has stepped up his game, the record awash with fluid richly textured guitar lines, which battle for attention amidst electronic and production flourishes, heard to great effect on the outro of “Tidal Wave”. The bass very much takes a back seat, with a certain flourish typically associated with their music being lost. Whereas previously alternating between lead melodies and providing an extra rhythmic punch, here the bass merely serves to anchor each track, leaving one’s attention to alight primarily upon the guitars and vocals. Banks does not attempt to emulate Carlos D’s distinct contribution, and instead plays in a less artful manner. Left to provide most of the colour in regards to the rhythm section, drummer Sam Fogarino is impressive as ever, dynamic, yet never overstated. However, Kessler is the true star of this show.

See the fluid riffs of “My Desire”, in which he takes a coda and over 5 minutes twists it into every conceivable direction. He even returns to backing vocal duties, not heard since the band’s debut album Turn on the Bright Lights.

“Same Town, New Story” is lifted by his crystalline lead guitar, meaning that Banks’ repeated lament “It feels like the whole world is up on my shoulders” hits all the heavier, like a rock in a pool of clear water. True to form, Bank’s himself cannot seem to resist throwing out the odd lyrical clunker (though nothing as bad as “Please police me/I want you to police me”). See the chorus of “My Blue Supreme”; “It’s someone that I’m dying to be/ Cruising in my blue supreme”. That said, it is to the vocalists credit that such a line doesn’t sound foolish but actually rather affecting, buoyed as it is by the swell of guitars underneath.

Following the booming success of their 2012 debut album, Shallow Bed, Dry The River faced the challenge of writing and releasing a follow-up record without the room or privacy to figure out whether or not they had found their own idiosyncratic musical lexicon in the midst of the imitation every band begins with (and many never leave), as well as producing something that was, if not of superior quality, at least on a par with and exhibiting some sort of development from the previous record. It came as no surprise then that when the band released a short making-of documentary about their sophomore album, Alarms In The Heart, one of the first things mentioned by lead singer Peter Liddle was that, when writing songs for the new record, he “was really trying to force a level of complexity into the songs to show myself that two years of touring had improved me as a musician.”

Fortunately, while being less acoustically driven and relying less on four-part harmonies to make for the more sense-seizing moments of the album (a tactic whose novelty and charm has been near done to death by the likes of Mumford), the record still retains a vibe that fans will recognise as the Dry The River’s trademark sound, with experimentation in areas of key/tonality/time signature changes to make for a more innovative sound than that of Shallow Bed. However, for all that might be said for progression from their debut, dynamically, the record still manages to strip itself back to some of the more vulnerable and winsome sounds of Shallow Bed from time to time, compli-

Forget what has been lost, by returning to a more guitar orientated song writing process, Interpol have managed to craft an album of vital and enjoyable noise, which promises good things to come from the reduced line up.

15

fashion Stockholm Syndrome

Fresher Fashion Fundamentals Laura Mulcair and Sarah Fennelly

Muireann Doherty Basic, acid wash or ripped to shreds, this investment will pay off. They'll last through the washes they'll never have.

You'll walk a million miles in these so they need to stand the test of time. These need to get you from front square to D2 and that awfully awkward walk home the morning after the night before.

”Don't forget your coat!" Freedom may be here at last but your mothers advice still rings true. Hail, rain or snow, this is your best friend.

Comfort, colour and cut are key..

This will get any outfit from the lecture hall to the Pav. Always at hand for the best type of procrastination; socialisation.

Sometimes we all need a bit of home, but this is not your county jersey. Something that you've always felt good in and that naturally follows your progression to college. Blair’s headbands and Carrie’s Manolos — a much needed security blanket in the big city.

For the unlucky ones with the 9am tutorials this will make getting out of bed that little bit easier. Just remember that this will be the day where, despite your fresher status and lack of acquaintances around front square— you’ll somehow bump into everyone you know!

This symbolises the gúna that does everything for you. Looks just as good over tights in college as with heels on the town. This is a dress you'll wear to any occasion; suitable or unsuitable, you'll feel good.

More important than you think; wheelie bags are a thing of the past. Rucksack, satchel or handbag, this is one of your college staples, where room for laptops and heels will inevitably be a necessity.

You know that impulse buy that's been hanging in your wardrobe while you weren't sure you could pull it off? Its day has finally come.

Now is the time not just to be who you are but wear what you want.

The best thing about Trinity is that every type of person is accepted.

The way you put things together reflects you so just have fun with it and have no fear. Confidence is key.

Welcome to Trinity!

...

16

Staying warm this winter may not be at the top of your priorities this fresher’s week, what with nights out and catching up with friends to be done, you mightn’t even be thinking about lectures. So finding the time to consider your winter wardrobe has most likely proven difficult. In looking for snowy inspiration why not direct our sartorial eye to the city that always gets winter fashion right. Since its first Fashion Week in 2005 Stockholm as a Fashion Capital is going from strength to strength.

Having to endure the Swedish winter, it’s not surprising that the winter fashion scene in Stockholm is on point and something that is coveted by dedicated fashion followers. Search Stockholm on Lookbook or Pinterest and you’ll find clean lines, structured coats and jackets and a prominent use of dark colours such as black, navy and warm mulberry hues. Textiles such as leather, fur and chunky knits are invaluable against the harsh north winds. How is this fashionable protection different to any other winter trend? Well, it’s how the Swedes style it. They layer, they tuck, they wrap or they throw.

Swedish fashion is more laid back compared its European counterparts. They may only have 5 hours of sunlight during the winter but they use it well. The way they turn to a more relaxed style as they run out the door is both relieving and on-trend. The beauty is in the detail of the pieces, they are intricate yet functional. This autumn why not take inspiration from the Nordic capital and try a leather jacket with faux-fur trimmings or functional chunky boots?

Staying stylish on a student budget may prove tough but vintage and charity shops are a godsend. Gems can always be found especially when it comes to things like winter coats and quirky wooly jumpers you'd pay a fortune for at Urban Outfitters. A rummage through the rails is always more rewarding than an internet shopping binge. Just remember that fashion is what you buy, but style is what you do with it. Being more creative about where you shop will ensure that your style evolves past the Topshop, River Island haze we see all too often.

she finds her items from ebay and “concessions from well connected people”. “Vintage is growing because people want to invest in things that will last, once you have your basic high quality wardrobe you can by the trends from Zara and Topshop; If a fabulous coat has lasted thirty years it'll definitely last twenty more. Good staples — thats my philosophy”

An interview with Fleur Moriarty the founder of Foraged&Found

“Friends would say my favourite fashion era is the 60’s and to be honest I do wear a lot of cat eyeliner, but now I’m going more towards the 70’s, even though palazzo pants will never suit me!” she laughs. Fleur also fears the inevitable return of the 00’s style to popular fashion but claims “There’s a lot to be said for looking back on trends and the runway. Sure, there might be disastrous trends on the runway too but the clothes themselves last. Whereas after a few months highstreet trends just aren't so cool anymore”. On her wardrobe treasures, I got a sense of just how much she appreciates a bargain! “I got this amazing pair of suede high wasted trousers for £20 in Brick Lane and an amazing purple Miu Miu dress… I always wear this amazingly tailored black maxi skirt by Jil Sander. They were all worth so much more which just make them better.”

Carla King-Molina The world of online retail is ever expanding and with the internet further dictating who we direct our sartorial eye towards it only makes sense that the online retailers like Nasty Gal, BlackMilk and ThreadSence are becoming major players in the e-commerce and fashion game. However no founder has become a brand themselves in the way Sophia Amoruso has!

Amoruso has been heralded by the New York Times as “The Cinderella of Tech”. By using social media in a way no one had at the time she helped Nasty Gal become one of the fastest growing companies. She has now become an inspiration to many young entrepreneurs hoping to edge out a space for themselves in the increasingly crowded world of e-commerce.

“Something I noticed about fashion in Trinity is that everyone dresses extremely well but by the end of fourth year you realise everyone is also wearing the same thing, like they still look great, but we are students, you're not going to be thinking about what you're going to wear everyday. Although there are always amazing jumpers on display and everyone wears scarves incredibly well”. When I asked Fleur if her degree has helped her much in what she’s doing today she told me that she read that Miuccia Prada had a Ph.D in Political Science so she knew it wouldn't stop her from pursuing a career in fashion. “You learn to write and to be critical, which is essential as you're constantly bombarded with images and everything is a blur at the end, but you still need to judge what’s just a trend and what’s going to last. “Fashion Soc taught me how to work with a team and styling, so it was so helpful to go from that to what I’m doing now.”

And one of those young entrepreneurs quickly following in her highly successful footsteps is none other than Trinity’s own Fleur Moriarty. Graduating from Trinity with a degree in Political Science and Geography just this year, she has been quick pounce onto a career that obviously excites her. When I asked her what inspired her to open up her own little real estate on the internet she said that the Fashion Society helped her realise it was what she wanted to work in because she was getting more lost in their events and the society itself than she was in her actual course. She cited being a personal assistant to Aaliyah Ansari the founder of TAGMAG as an invaluable education into the world of online retail. Unlike the usual coffee runs she would help Aaliyah sell her excess clothes on Shopify by modelling her clothes, pointing out that something can look “drab on a hanger but absolutely incredible on”. She also helped to design Lulu Vintage Store’s own online shop which then helped her go on and create Foraged&Found.

While I was going through Foraged&Found I couldn't help but notice the amazing coats on it, from the vintage Nina Ricci to the 90’s white Prada.

I asked Fleur what she had to say on finding the perfect winter coat. “I always get amazing coats in the January Sales and Topshop always have amazing winter coats as well! I nearly always get at least one coat from there and to be honest, you cant go wrong with a black duster coat; If in doubt wear black. And always choose a warm coat.” Vintage mammy advice made cool again from one impressive vintage boss, much like the the entire content of her website!

When I asked her about any fears or apprehension to opening up Foraged&Found she explained that she didn't invest much money into it so that wasn't a fear but the real challenge begins now. “Getting the word out becomes more difficult as there are so many online vintage shops.” But following in the trend that Amoruso started, social media is clearly her best friend. Her favourite parts are “giving [herself] an internship” and “wearing a story”. Her own style is a mismatch of tomboy meets extremely girly. “Nothing beats ripped jeans, tailored pants and black… except my favourite fairy-esque tulle dress”. Her love of bargains drive the site and

You can view Fleur’s precious vintage finds at www.foragedandfound.com

17

food & drink A BBQ with a twist Venina Kalistrativa If Professor Gantogtokh’s recent lecture on the “Literate Culture of the Mongols” has left you yearning for the yurt, we may just have the right thing for you.

The Mongolian Barbeque is situated on 7 Anglesea Street on the outskirts of Temple Bar, a scarce 5 minute walk from TCD and it is the finest student dining one can conjure up for only €5.90 (lunch deal). It is highly eclectic in its nature with a variety of Indian sides, such as the papadum with cucumber and yogurt raita, which I highly recommend, or other Asian foods, such as the crispy duck spring rolls. It is a menu which Genghis Khan would hardly recognise as his own. The Mongolian Barbeque is newbie-friendly, all you need to do is to follow four easy steps. First, take a bowl and fill it with your vegetables, noodles and meat of choice (vegetarians get an extra bowl of vegetables). Don’t go headfirst to the noodles, even though the rice-based ones look enticing, as an extra bowl of rice is served directly to your table while you

Sipping with the Swedes Fiona Brennan There are many different types of coffee drinkers; the casual drinker, the fanatic, the obsessed. And then, there are the Swedish. Before travelling to Sweden, I believed that Italians drank the most amount of coffee but I could not have been more wrong.Along with the rest of the Nordic countries, Swedes drink an unhealthy amount of coffee, drinking over twice as much as the Irish. But unlike the Italians and Australians (Melbourne was recently voted the best destination for coffee in the world*), the Swedes are not very particular about their drink. They opt for quantity that is found in black drip coffee, as opposed to espresso-based coffee. Anyone who has read the Stieg Larsson Millennium series remembers how much coffee the main character Mikael Blomkvist drank. I came across a few Swedes during my time there that drank 10-12 cups of coffee a day, an amount that would wreak havoc on anyone’s stomach, but not the Swedish apparently.

The Swedes are a funny bunch, preferring to bring their own coffee into college in their cherished thermal flasks. However, when they do buy coffee and cakes, they have a special name for it: Fika. It is a Swedish custom that translates as a coffee break shared with others. Swedes drink coffee for the social element, it is an opportunity to catch up with friends or family. Unlike Americans who get coffee to go or Italians who drink shots of espresso, in Sweden drinking coffee is not just about the drink, it is a shared experience. You rarely see people instagramming their latté or cappuccino, as latte art isn’t exactly a ‘thing’.

Indeed, coffee is not a cultural fad in Sweden; Fika is ingrained in their culture. *Booking.com 2014 survey

18

concoct your buffet. Also give spinach, courgettes and onions a chance, as they retain most flavour when you cook your meal. Next make sure to put enough spices on your meat or chicken, there is a variety of choices (spicy actually means spicy, so don’t overkill it with the chilli). Then add some sauce to the bowl of vegetables, as your ingredients will not cook unless moist. There are as many sauces as there are tastes, from soy to tikka masala. Finally, hand your concoctions to the chef, sit back and experience the unique visual delight of having your food cooked in front of you. And no, you don’t have to get dirty and wash the dishes afterwards! The portions are generous, and as I mentioned already, you get a bowl of free rice so choose your ingredients wisely. If you happen to have space for more, try one of the creations of Cheesecake (South William Street) which have teamed up with The Mongolian Barbeque, a match made in foodie heaven!

Reinventing the classic spud Robert Greene This month’s UTZine issue is all about “fresh perspectives”, so we are taking a fresh perspective on traditonal food. Potatoes, rice, pasta, bread…it is time to make staples sexy and we’re beginning with the classic spud.

Avocado Sweet Potato Burgers To kick us off, we are taking Ireland’s favourite (the spud) and Central America’s favourite (the avocado) to concoct North America’s favourite (the burger).

Ok, so it is no state-sized heart attack sandwiched between a processed white bun and technically the sweet potato is not from the same family as the potato, but who cares? After all, this burger is delicious and packed with a whole lot of goodness – fibre, vitamins A, B vitamins, potassium, folic acid... And to top it off, these burgers are mega versatile –sweet or spicy, the choice is yours.

Ingredients (4 burgers) 1 can cannellini white beans (drained) 1 medium sweet potato 2 tbsp flour Crushed crackers/pretzels/cornflakes/tortilla chips Sweet?

1tsp cinnamon 1tsp honey/agave or maple syrup

Spicy?

2 tbsp garlic ½ tsp paprika ½ tsp chili powder ½ tsp cumin

1 avocado (sliced) 1 red onion (sliced) Fresh lemon juice (squeezed from a real lemon) Light mayonnaise or tomato relish (or both) Whole-wheat burger buns (go on, give it a go!)

terre (that is potato for all you non-Frenchies – let’s face it, everything sounds sexier in French!). And guess what, it’s gluten-free! Perfect for coeliacs and anti-gluten activists alike. Think you know spuds, think again...

Instructions

Ingredients 1 large potato (approx. 250g) – peeled & quartered Knob butter ¼ cup milk (or cream for any greedy guts out there!)

200g butter (softened) 200g golden caster sugar 4 eggs (free-range please!)

175g ground almonds 3 lemon zest 2 tbsp gluten-free baking powder 1 lemon 4 tbsp granulated sugar

Potatoes Poke potato with fork several times Microwave: Wrap loosely in paper towel & stick in microwave - 5-8 mins Oven: Conventional 200°C /Fan 180 °C - 45-50 mins Patties Mash potatoes & beans Stir in flour, garlic, cumin, chili, salt & pepper (spicy) or cinnamon & honey (sweet) Cover & refrigerate - 30 mins Divide into four patties (3/4 inch thick) Coat in crushed crackers Burgers Pan: Heat oil (medium heat) – cook 5-8 mins each side (two patties at a time) Oven: Conventional 200°C/ Fan 180 °C - 25 mins (cover baking tray with greaseproof paper)

Instructions Mashed potatoes Fill pot with water & tsp salt and bring to boil Cook potato until tender – 15-20mins Warm milk/cream and Drain potatoes Add butter & mash Add milk gradually & mash and pinch of salt Leave to cool

Art (not heart) attack!

Grab a bun, slap on the mayo and/or relish, pop on the burger, top off with some avocado & red onion slices & for that final artistic touch, drizzle over some lemon juice. Van Gough, eat your heart out!

Batter Oven : Conventional 180°C/Fan 160°C Butter & line 20 cm cake tin Beat caster sugar & butter until light & fluffy Beat in egg one by one Fold in almonds, cold mash, zest & baking powder

‘Zesty’ Potato Pie

Bake Pour into tin & bake – 40-45 mins Cool in tin for 10 mins & place on wire rack

If our spicy sweet potato and avocado burgers weren’t hot enough for you, maybe it is time for something a little bit naughtier, but oh so nice. For dessert we are serving lemon drizzle cake à la pomme de

19

Drizzle Mix granulated sugar & lemon juice Drizzle over cake & sides Bon appétit!

Don’t let anyone know it is “potato drizzle” until they have devoured their slice.

film & tv An Education in Film

Freshers’ Film Fundamentals

William Bailey

Natalie Burke

For any seekers of wisdom and knowledge in some way, shape or form linked to film and the film world who are willing to look beyond IMDb, here are the latest and best blogs available to you to help on your way.

Before embarking on a degree in Trinity, it is important to be armed with some basic knowledge on films that are popular with your fellow students. This is a guide to five films that are essential viewing for all incoming freshmen. Academic pressures, making new friends and feeling generally bewildered in your first semester will be hard enough without feeling lost or adrift as your peers toss about quotes from films you have never seen, or worse; did not know existed. Not all of these films are college themed but all are “must-sees” for successful integration into your new college life.

1. Hopeforfilm http://hopeforfilm.com An interesting blog in which Ted Hope gives his opinion on all things film and TV in small, sharp textboxess that get right to the point. The lay out makes it accessible but of late there has perhaps been a little too much advertising for the author’s upcoming book. Nonetheless, a must read for any budding film fans.

First up is Superbad (2007). This is a hilariously foul mouthed yet touching tale about two inseparable best friends who are determined to enjoy one night amidst the popular crowd. Freshmen will relate to the protagonists’ anxieties about being forced to leave life-long friends to go off to college.

2. Thehousenextdoor http://www.slantmagazine.com/house/ This blog has become somewhat of a powerhouse on the scene and does not limit itself to the arts. It could readily be used as a port of call for an update on current affairs but if you are looking for an in depth and informative review of new releases then look no further.

National Lampoon’s Van Wilder (2002) revolves around the exploits of the titular character whose main goal is to make sure every freshman enjoys the full college experience. Expect ludicrously and sometimes cringe worthy scenes that show the seedier side of college life.

Will come in handy when someone shouts “What will we do after the Pav?”

3. Thinking Animation http://thinkinganimationbook.blogspot.co.uk This is undoubtedly more of a niche blog and may be of no interest to the masses, however, if animation is your type of thing and you haven’t visited this site then you’re missing out. Videos comprise 99% of the content and cover and wide range of topics meaning it is ultimately worth the visit.

Tommy Wiseau’s The Room (2003) is a cult classic. People will be yelling “YOU’RE TEARING ME APART, LISA” quite often, especially around the Drama and Film Departments. After watching Wiseau’s masterpiece you will be able to retort that you know all about the spoon motif. This will instantly solidify your status as “cool”.

4. The Black List http://www.blcklst.com For any young writers out there looking to get exposure for a recently finished script this is your place. This site is essentially a forum into which one can upload a script with the hope that a film maker will like the subject matter and get in contact. Alternately for those among us that don’t like the idea of writing, this site can simply be used to read young and upcoming writers screenplays without having to spend a cent.

Edgar Wright’s Shaun of the Dead (2004) is up next. This satirical, wonderfully paced zombie film is crucial if you are studying Science or happen to be hanging around the Hamilton building. The Science-Fiction Society will screen this movie at least once a semester.

The zombie genre is so popular that you would also be advised to watch George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead for extra credit.

Bill Murray is a god among men. This is a fact. Obviously you will be familiar with Ghostbusters (1984), Groundhog Day (1993), and Rushmore (1998) (if not, bow your head in shame). However, you are in college now and the more obscure your references, the more furiously you can make your fellow students google. Go for lesser known Murray treasures like What About Bob (1991). Not only will your peers think you are interesting but they will eventually make you their leader.

5. Cinebeats - Confessions of a Cinephile http://cinebeats.wordpress.com Where Thehousenextdoor gives reviews of current releases this blog, created and written by Kimbery Lindberg, is an avid cinema fan sharing her thoughts on film across the ages. You never know what is going to appear next but she never fails to delight with her insightful articles.

Obviously the internet is huge and the amount of blogs, centred on or near film, number in their thousands, however, the five listed above should be a good starting point for anyone looking to broaden their cinematic horizons.

Go forth with your newly acquired film knowledge and remember it will also work when trying to impress a new campus crush because as everyone knows, the more films you have seen, the more alluring you are.

20

A Most Wanted Man Tom Parry A Most Wanted Man is the most recent film from Anton Corbijn, a Dutch director who is best known for his work on Control (2007) and The American (2010). The latest John le Carré novel to have been adapted for the big screen, A Most Wanted Man follows the relative success of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and The Constant Gardener. At its heart, this film offers an examination of good, bad and the highly blurred moral lines of those who act in the name of national security.

ground. Willem Dafoe is unfortunately not at his best but Robin Wright adds a sparkle of brilliance and Grigoriy Dobrygin excels at keeping the viewer at arm’s length, never fully revealing himself.

Corbijn directs the film well. He manages to avoid the traditional action movie clichés, bright splashes of colour flood the screen, their beauty and emotional reverberation emphasising the cold, harsh reality of the situation.

Likewise, the character of Issa is used well, as both a man and a metaphor, his body bearing physical testament to the struggles he has faced and those that are to come.

So where does the film fall down? Why is this not the must-see film of 2014?

Well, the film is undoubtedly slow-burning and can be taxing in its constant demand for your attention. There does almost reach a point where you simply wish that something, a car or a building, would just explode.

In brief, the film follows the novel pretty closely. It tells the story of a bedraggled Chechen man, Issa, who appears in Hamburg with a harrowing past and a desire to get his hands on his late father’s fortune. It isn’t long before he comes to the attention of the clandestine security services and a man called Gunther, played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, where they have to figure out his true intentions.

Maybe as a result of the perils of reducing hundreds of pages of text into a two hour long film or maybe simply because of Hoffman’s overbearing presence in the film, the film settles on the character of Gunther rather than Issa.

I am loathe to fall into the trap of raving about Hoffman’s performance because it, tragically, is his last completed film but his presence in the film is inescapable. His performance is intense, brooding, in parts palpably weary and yet perfectly married to John le Carré’s storytelling ability. Hoffman is surrounded by a more than able supporting cast. Rachel McAdams is superb, bringing life to a character that could so easily have faded into the back-

This, much like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, is not your traditional action movie/ spy thriller. The emphasis here is on facts, figures and personalities rather than machine gun wielding bad guys framed by exploding cars. This is a finely balanced film, with complexity and slow suspense at its heart. Should you be willing to embrace the film for what it is, you will find an intriguing thriller with a dominating performance from Philip Seymour Hoffman that is a fitting tribute to his talents.

21

societies New Societies App: A Hive of Activities

free app that lets you join college societies, stay tuned with your society news and browse upcoming events. You can even pay for tickets. (no more 9am ticket queues!)

Created by our very own students from the Trinity College Dublin and the University of Manchester the app aims to provide a “ convenient way for people to find out what’s going on on campus.”

The three founding students came to together through the Launch Box program while creating an app “Add me” from which Hive developed. Hive strives to “provide a convenient tool for the organizers of university societies” according to the company which consists of ten team members including Trinity interns.

The app has proved popular in the last few weeks with many students downloading it in order to buy tickets for Freshers’ week events.

For students who do not own a smartphone it is possible to book tickets for events via the website which will subsequently send a code to be used upon arrival at the venue. The company is working with the Central Societies Committee and the Board for Irish College societies in order to expand the service to more student groups and societies and the app is currently available on the i-store and will be available on android by the end of Freshers week.

Jane Fallon Griffin Fed up of failing to know where the craic is on campus and deciding to just give up on life and stay in an watch parks and rec in your jammies instead? Hold on, step away from the ben and jerrys and instead download this new app ‘Hive’, a

Pick of the bunch

Chris Hadfield Famous for his intergalactic Irish language tweet and for being the first Canadian to walk in space, Hadfield will address the Phil in a discussion, which is sure to be out of this world! (pun unapologetically intentional)

Jane Fallon Griffin As many societies release their 2014/15 guest lists it’s clear there will be some high profile visitors gracing the humble cobbles stones of Front Square over the course of this year. UTzine selects our favorite speakers that we’ll be queuing, crooning and swooning for.

Amy Poehler

Pete Wentz

Producer, writer, actress, comedian, Goddess, this year Amy Poehler will be gracing the Phil with her presence. We’re expecting Poehler fans will largely have a reaction similar to Leslie Knope meeting Michelle O’Bama which will make for a fun and exciting talk with American’s favorite comedienne. No dates have been released yet but with her autobiography coming out in November and resulting book tour, it may be a good time to start practicing how any mean girls quotes you could fit in your imaginary conversation with this queen of comedy.

Former sk8r girls and emo boys unite! Fall Out boy both past and present should root out their concert t-shirts, black guy-eyeliner and purple skinny jeans and rejoice in the news that Pete Wentz will be visiting within the coming months. Fall Out Boy bassist and prime lyricist Wentz’s talk will be an interesting one for all music lovers or for those who once liked to think of themselves as a little edgy.

Game of Thrones

Jon Snow

Fans of Game of Thrones will be pleased to hear that Law soc will be bringing two of the series writers DB Weiss and David Benioff to Trinity this coming academic year. Further GOT events promise to be more exciting still with actors Aidan Gillen and Gwendoline Christie making appearances during the 2014/15 session.

The Phil plays host to journalist, presenter and longest running host of channel 4 news, Jon Snow.

With a stellar career in the media circuit the formidable Snow will surely captivate a Trinity audiences, just as much as he has with international audiences in the past.

22

Fresher Week Events

With Freshers week in full swing we here at UTzine have picked our favorite society events to attend, in order to maximize getting free stuff, having the banter and maybe even learn something new…but yeah, mostly free stuff.

Monday What

The Hist’s Derby of Rhetoric

When

3pm

Where

GMB Hist Conversation Room

What

DUGES Elizabethan Tea Party

When

2pm

Where

DUGES Room, House 6

What

Recreating movie magic

When

1pm

Where

House 6

What

Cumann Gaelach gig

When

8pm

Where

Workman’s Club

What

Alternative Bubble Soccer

When

2pm

Where

Botany Bay

Debates can be scary with lots of near shouting, intellectually disguised smack talk and manic points of information.

Why not ease in o the debating world with Monday’s Derby of Rhetoric which will see the best and the brightest of the Historical Society giving five minute speeches on their favorite topics and open floor discussions with lots of laughs and maybe even learning. (although not too much, we know it’s still freshers week).

Tuesday The wonderful women and men of the gender equality society are going to be recreating the Elizabethan tea party’s held in the 1950’s and 60’s with teacakes and doilies and vintage dress mandatory. Each member of committee will be recounting a different decade on the history of women in Trinity college for what is sure to be an interesting daytime event.

Wednesday Spend time recreating your favourite cinematic moments using materials provided by the college’s film society. With an army of film buffs organizing this event it promises to have lots of drama and action. See if you can make the directors cut!

Thursday Get jiggy with it (sorry, we couldn’t resist) at the Cumann Gaelach’s infamous annual ‘Gig Mhor na bhfreisir’ in none other than hipster central, the Workman’s club on the quay.

As with all Cumann Gaelach events the craic is guaranteed and cupla focail from all Irish speakers, fluent speakers and total beginners alike, will be celebrated.

Friday

23

Finish off Freshers week 2014 with the Suas society who are hosting five a side football with a twist i.e. the upper part of your body will be encased in a large inflatable bubble. Make new friends, or maybe enemies in this alternative version of the beautiful game, which will see all players thrown about the course in a fight to the death, or at least deflation.