I first wrote a blog about my short story, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear", in 2018. A story contained within my collection of short fiction, "Anthology of Evil" (paperback), and as a standalone short ebook and audiobook.
By the way, on Monday, I will be sharing a blog offering a critical analysis of all my published short stories from my Anthology of Evil series of books. Please share.
Stay tuned...
However it was my first short story sold to a magazine in 1990, an East Coast horror quarterly, now out of publication.
If you're like me and academic in nature, for a serious person I'd suggested reading this blog, then reading the short story, then re-read this blog. You'll be surprised what you get out of it. If nothing else, perhaps reading this blog, or even skimming it as most may do (if I'm lucky), will motivate them to read the short story.
I'm also preparing a critical analysis of my writings as contained in my Anthology of Evil series, which are most of my short stories, which are aside from my fiction and non-fiction books, screenplays, and films, as I dabble in multiple creative "universes".
Yes, I was excited to receive my first payment for selling my fiction, and that was its history with me, for a while...until 2016 when its relevance became far more profound. And again in our last election, when it became ever more profound. Much in the way the film "Idiocracy" (2006) has become so relevant, a decade after its release.
Idiocracy DVD poster
Yes, I'm talking about Donald Trump. Again. We're all so sick of talking about him, yet again fluffing his ego in his malignant narcissism. But against the wishes of most of us, he's in our faces, and...again.
His MaGA political personality cult of autocracy with pepperings of fascism, uses a kind of political idiocy to force him onto we the people and into our governemnt. All in order to gain, and then retain power for purposes of weath, power and frankly, attention.
Now? We're deep into it. But let's put him and all that insanity aside for the moment. This is about my story, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear". A title I gleamed from my childhood authorial hero, Isaac Asimov, who wrote the Foundation Series, so much science fiction today is based upon.
Though we will have to get back to him, as this story has become relevant... long before Trump was on the poltical stage.
Brief aside...
Many years ago, I met a very attractive woman and we were considering going out together on a date. We were sitting around talking one day and I offered her to read this story which I was rather proud of. She actually read it, then in horror at the end of it (as it is a dystopian kind of horror story), she looked up at me (in horror) and asked me:
"Is this how you look at women?"
I was stunned, quickly comprehending her orientation on what she had read.
"What? No! Wait, do you not understand how horror fiction works? You see, the author tends to write what horrifies them in the hope it will do the same to the reader. The idea is that you present something in a positive (seemingly positive) "light" so it will bring the reader to your point of view. It's a kind of trick of the writing."
I was clumsy in my response because I was a little in shock at her response (as was she in reading my story, apparently).
To clarify now, in having time to consider it: Horror fiction often works by luring the reader into a false sense of security—presenting something in a seemingly positive light—only to reveal its true, terrifying nature. Authors write what horrifies them, hoping to evoke the same reaction in the reader, using contrast and subversion to shift perspectives and expose hidden fears.
Thus, the things I find personally despicable, I present in the story in a way to bring, or more greatly bring, the reader to align with my beliefs or orientation.
If you write about a serial murderer or rapist, you draw the reader into an understanding—until they’re jolted by the realization that they’ve been seeing through a filter far removed from how they should be viewing it.
When an author gets the reader to side with the antagonist—a murderer, rapist, or other horror—then pulls them back to reveal where they stand, it becomes a powerful technique to disturb, horrify, and challenge perspectives.
Anyway, I couldn't convince her otherwise and the date never transpired.
Probably for the best. Though it bothers me that she walked away having a view of who I was that was very detached from reality.
No, trust me, really. Honest!
But again... this today is about the themes within my story, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear."
Several themes emerge that explore the implications of memory, technology, and ethics within a futuristic context. One prominent theme is the relationship between technological advancement and its effects on human memory and experience. The protagonist appears to navigate a world deeply intertwined with advanced technology, such as the iSet, which signifies a tool for accessing memories and experiences but also embodies a sense of emotional detachment from the past .
The narrative presents a complex view of how individuals cope with their memories through technology. For instance, the internal struggle of the protagonist regarding whether to engage with their painful past reflects a universal conflict between the desire to remember and the need to forget.
In the narrative of "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear," the main characters are Peter and George. Peter is portrayed as a highly intelligent and evolving individual who undergoes significant changes, including a transformation into a more advanced being with enhanced cognitive capabilities.
George, on the other hand, a world famous surgeon, is depicted as a close friend of Peter who observes and reacts to Peter's transformation and its implications, often feeling a mix of admiration and concern over Peter's abilities and intentions. Peter is in fact, George's lost (in the Amazon) son's friend. Together, they navigate the complexities of advanced technology and its effects on their lives and relationships.
This duality raises questions about the authenticity of experiences when mediated through technology. The protagonist's interactions on the social media platform, UNIsee, illustrate how public perception and individual memory can become clouded by external forces, complicating personal truths and ethical considerations.
Furthermore, the theme of existential reflection emerges as characters contemplate their identities against a backdrop of profound technological change. The desire to communicate "directly" with a significant figure from their past underscores a yearning for genuine connections in a reality where such interactions are increasingly mediated by technology. This mirrors the tension between the human longing for connection and the isolating nature of technological progress, suggesting that as society advances, it risks losing touch with its core humanity.
Also evident is the theme of ethical dilemmas that accompany technological innovations. Characters grapple with the implications of their choices, illuminating the moral complexities that arise when personal and collective advancements take precedence over traditional ethical norms. The story ultimately serves as a cautionary tale, inviting readers to reflect on the balance between embracing innovation and preserving the essence of human experience and morality.
In summary, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear" intricately weaves themes of memory, technology, and ethics, emphasizing the profound impact of technological advancements on personal experience and identity while questioning the moral implications of such progress in a rapidly changing world. A reoccuring theme of the author in his works.
Please note that the UNIsee and the iSet are not the same device, but they serve complementary functions in the narrative. The iSet is described as a highly advanced device, functioning as a "Nanodot Interfaced Radio Wave Cooled Evanescent Laser Photonic Integrated Circuit monitor," which integrates various home systems and is run by complex memory modules and hyper-communications. It represents a personal technology that enhances communication and entertainment within a household.
On the other hand, the UNIsee is introduced as a social media platform built and maintained by the United Nations, granting global access to users. It was created to allow unfettered communication among people worldwide, replacing a previously defunct social media tool that had misused private data. The story highlights the UNIsee's role in maintaining social connections and the protagonist's high standing on the platform due to his profession and association with another character, Peter
The concept of concentrating a nation's media and political narrative around a single individual's personality—reminiscent of a personality cult—can have far-reaching implications for both domestic stability and international relations. This phenomenon often hinges on the individual's mental state, which can profoundly influence a nation's direction.
Within the context of the narratives explored, we see the complexities that emerge from this dynamic. For instance, the centralization of communication through technology, as exemplified by the social media platform UNIsee, positions a character's status and connections as crucial components of his public persona. This situation echoes the influence of figures (like conviced felon POTUS47 Trump), where personal traits and moments of instability can shape national sentiment and policy.
Additionally, this highlights how media narratives can distort public perception, leading to binary thinking, where individuals interpret events in black-and-white terms rather than acknowledging the complexities involved. This distortion is exacerbated by the immediacy of information dissemination in a digital age, creating a landscape where rapid reactions can overshadow thoughtful engagement with issues. The protagonist's reflections suggest that sensationalism in media—chosen for profit rather than truth—overrides factual accuracy, leading to widespread misinformation and possible unrest.
Moreover, the implications of a singular vision steered by one leader's instability can foster societal division. The desperation for clarity in a confusing world often leads people to rally around ambiguous promises of strength or unity. This situation can invoke a sense of shared identity among followers, who may overlook troubling behaviors in their leader due to the strong emotional undercurrents of a personality cult.
Geopolitically, the consequences of such dynamics can be significant. An unstable leader can provoke conflicts, as external adversaries may exploit these weaknesses or unpredictabilities to undermine the nation's standing internationally. As tensions rise, the need for a cohesive, rational policy may become secondary to the leader's erratic impulses, potentially leading to international strife or miscalculations that can affect relations with allies.
In summary, concentrating media and political power in the hands of one individual gives rise to a multitude of issues, from misinformation and societal division to geopolitical instability, as the individual’s mental and emotional health directly shapes the nation's trajectory and its interactions with the broader world.
The concentration of media power within a personality cult significantly undermines the public's ability to critically evaluate information and form independent opinions. One crucial factor is the tendency for sensationalism and emotional manipulation over factual accuracy, which can distort public perception.
In a media landscape dominated by a singular narrative, as often seen in the dynamics discussed in the context of characters navigating public life through platforms like UNIsee, critical engagement with information can be overshadowed by the personality-driven agenda that seeks to garner attention rather than encourage informed discourse.
This environment fuels binary thinking, where the public is encouraged to view issues in black-and-white terms rather than the "gray" of actuality in appreciating the complexities involved. The internal struggle of characters grappling with their connections and identities in such a climate illustrates how easily individuals can be swayed by repetitive narratives crafted to fit the desires of a charismatic leader. Heightened emotional appeals often replace nuanced discussions, leading to a populace that is less equipped to critically assess diverse perspectives.
Moreover, the reliance on a singular figure for guidance can stifle dissent and discourage independent thought. When media and political narratives coalesce around a personality, followers may overlook troubling behaviors or decisions out of loyalty to that figure, resulting in a herd mentality that discourages questioning and critical reflection. This idealization of a leader can create a false sense of unity, but ultimately, it cultivates an environment where objective evaluation of information is significantly impaired.
As a consequence, society may experience fragmentation, where people become entrenched in their views, insulated from alternative opinions and discussions. The repercussions of this are particularly severe in a geopolitical context, as the public's diminished capacity to critically appraise information feeds into the whims of a leader, potentially inciting conflict and jeopardizing rational governance.
The concentration of media power in personality cults fosters an atmosphere of emotional manipulation and simplified narratives, thereby significantly hampering the public's ability to engage in critical evaluation and independent thinking concerning information.
To counteract the effects of misinformation and societal division that arise from a personality cult, societies can adopt several strategies:
Promoting Media Literacy: Enhancing the public's ability to critically evaluate information is essential. Education programs that focus on distinguishing between reliable and unreliable sources can empower individuals to recognize misinformation. As seen in discussions surrounding the rapid dissemination of information via platforms like UNIsee (or today in social media, streaming, and television), fostering critical thinking skills can mitigate the emotional manipulation prevalent in sensationalist media narratives.
Encouraging Diverse Perspectives: Creating platforms that promote diverse viewpoints can counteract the monolithic narrative often perpetuated by a personality cult. By exposing citizens to a variety of perspectives, societies can nurture a climate that values nuance and complexity in discussions. This approach directly opposes the binary thinking that frequently emerges when media is concentrated in the hands of a single individual.
Fostering Open Dialogue: Establishing forums for open discussions where dissenting opinions can be expressed without fear of reprisal is vital. This encourages independent thought and reduces the herd mentality that often accompanies a personality cult. When individuals feel safe to question authority and share differing viewpoints, it strengthens democratic engagement and resilience against divisive rhetoric.
Implementing Fact-Checking Mechanisms: Instituting independent fact-checking organizations can provide the public with reliable information, helping to clarify misinformation spread by dominant media narratives. Transparency in information can build public trust and promote a culture where facts are prioritized over personal agendas or emotional appeals.
Strengthening Community Ties: Encouraging community engagement and dialogue fosters understanding and solidarity among diverse groups. As individuals become more connected with their communities, the emotional appeal of a singular charismatic leader may diminish, and collective action can lead to more constructive responses to social issues.
Utilizing Technology Responsibly: The use of technology should be approached with caution, ensuring that it does not exacerbate divisions. Leveraging technology for positive community-building efforts can help counteract the harmful impacts of a pervasive personality cult. Appropriately moderated social media platforms that vet information can play a crucial role.
Addressing Root Social Issues: Root causes of division often stem from economic and social inequalities. By addressing these fundamental issues, societies can diminish the susceptibility of individuals to fall under the sway of polarizing figures. When people's basic needs are met, they may be less likely to rally behind a leader based solely on emotional or charismatic appeals.
Through a multi-faceted approach that emphasizes education, open dialogue, community engagement, and responsible technology use, societies can effectively counteract the pernicious effects of misinformation and division stemming from personality cults.
Historical leaders often exhibit traits that mirror the dynamics of personality cults, leading to significant geopolitical consequences stemming from their leadership styles. Notably, Adolf Hitler serves as a prime example who is characterized as a charismatic figure capable of mesmeric influence, captivating followers and rallying an entire nation around his vision, which ultimately devolved into fascism and genocide. Hitler's leadership fostered a culture where unquestioning loyalty was demanded, which severely limited public discourse and independent thought, contributing to widespread complicity in his regime's atrocities.
The consequences of Hitler's style were catastrophic, as his approach led to World War II and the Holocaust, fundamentally altering global geopolitics and human rights discourse. His regime's emphasis on a singular narrative, often rooted in emotional manipulation and sensationalism, exemplifies how the concentration of media power within a personality cult can result in catastrophic outcomes.
Other leaders such as Mao Zedong and Stalin similarly exemplified traits typical of personality cults. Mao's leadership during the Cultural Revolution reflected a profound manipulation of public sentiment, leading to societal upheaval and millions of deaths as a result of policies like the Great Leap Forward. Stalin's cult of personality resulted in widespread fear and repression, as dissent was not tolerated, leading to extensive purges and a culture of paranoia that defined Soviet society.
The common thread among these leaders' traits—charisma, media concentration, emotional manipulation, and repression— has led to devastating geopolitical consequences, including wars, genocides, and enduring societal fractures. The allure of these charismatic figures often masks the dire implications of their authoritarian governance, as seen throughout the 20th century.
Current domestic leadership can reflect traits similar to those found in historical authoritarian figures, potentially leading to significant societal and geopolitical consequences. For instance, the concentration of power and the demand for loyalty can be seen in modern leadership styles that resemble personality cults.
These leaders often exhibit charismatic authority, similar to Hitler and Stalin, fostering an environment where media narratives are manipulated to serve their agendas. This concentration of media influence leads to a culture of emotional manipulation and sensationalism, which can erode public discourse and independent thought.
Moreover, the dangers of governance marked by a singular narrative were observed in the cases where personality cults were prominent. Current domestic leaders who aspire to or maintain control through charismatic appeal may neglect the well-being of the populace in favor of personal or political gain. As seen in historical examples, this can result in societal upheaval, manipulation of public sentiment, and even egregious human rights violations.
Furthermore, the risks associated with placing trust in leaders exhibiting these traits highlight potential vulnerabilities within a society, especially when combined with advanced technologies and social media platforms. These tools can amplify divisive rhetoric and misinformation, exacerbating societal divisions. The interplay of a leader's charisma with technology can create an intoxicating atmosphere that diminishes accountability and undermines democratic principles, much like the scenarios experienced under past dictatorships.
The characteristics of current domestic leadership, particularly when echoing the dynamics of a personality cult, hold the potential for significant negative implications, akin to those witnessed in history. Societies that fail to recognize and counteract these patterns may find themselves vulnerable to authoritarianism and societal fragmentation.
The protagonist in the story exhibits characteristics that can be likened to those associated with Donald Trump, particularly in terms of their charisma and the resulting influence over their respective audiences. For instance, the protagonist has a certain magnetic appeal, which historically has allowed figures like Hitler to mesmerize a nation, echoing Trump's own ability to captivate his followers with his rhetoric and public persona.
Both the protagonist and Trump can be seen as controversial figures, eliciting strong opinions from both supporters and detractors. The protagonist's confusion and struggles with identity reflect a deeper psychological complexity, much like how Trump's leadership is often scrutinized for perceived psychological traits, including a sense of superiority and the need for affirmation. The text mentions the protagonist's transformation into a figure akin to Hitler, which evokes the notion of a dangerous amalgamation of personal traits that can lead to a form of madness or disillusionment.
Moreover, the narrative highlights a disintegrating grasp on reality, exemplified by the protagonist's descent into madness and the chilling realization of embodying a historical figure known for atrocities. A natural evolution for such figures, in such manufactured situations, under such strains and stresses of maintainingk a defective reality for the masses.
This mirrors concerns about Trump's leadership style, where critics often discuss the potential risks of authoritarian tendencies and the impact of a single narrative, aligning with the fears of societal upheaval drawn from past examples of leadership gone awry.
Ultimately, the similarities lie in the portrayal of charisma, the magnetic yet divisive influence over followers, and an overarching theme of identity confusion that spirals into a psychological crisis. This complex interplay illustrates how individuals in power can reflect pathological tendencies that lead to profound consequences for society.
The distancing in the story of Canada and Mexico from the United States, contrasted with the yearning of more distant nations' populations to engage with America's media and advertising, reveals a complex interplay of geopolitical relationships and societal perceptions. Canada and Mexico appear to be navigating a cautious path in their interactions with the U.S.
This is highlighted by an associate's concern about Canada's evident reluctance to deepen ties with America, as if wary of the socio-political climate emanating from its neighbor. Such distancing may reflect Canada's desire to assert its identity and protect its societal values from the perceived decline of ethical and moral norms in America, as brought about by its domestic leadership and societal changes, which many consider problematic.
On the other hand, the populations of more distant nations continue to aspire to the captivating allure of American media and advertising, which they see as symbols of modernity and success. This is paradoxical, as the very media that these populations admire is also witnessing a significant disintegration of societal and ethical standards within America itself.
The differences in these interactions underscore a divergence where proximity seems to breed caution and potential alienation, while distance fosters a fascination with the perceived advantages of American cultural influence.
Moreover, America's media landscape has become a contentious space characterized by sensationalism and a manipulative narrative that prioritizes profit over societal integrity. The various influences stemming from this environment can lead to a distorted perception of reality, impacting how not only Americans but foreign nations understand and engage with moral and ethical norms.
Thus, while Canada and Mexico may seek to distance themselves from these dynamics, other countries might find themselves entranced by the compelling but chaotic cultural outputs of the United States, further complicating the relationship between the nations based on their geographic proximity and cultural affinity.
It's interesting to note how POTUS47 Trump has politically "attacked" our nearest neighbors, leading to our American anthem at a Canadian sports event being booed, something that has never happened before.
The disintegration of societal and ethical norms in America can have profound effects on its relationships with neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico, as well as with more distant nations.
For Canada and Mexico, there appears to be a cautious distancing from the U.S., reflecting a desire to protect their societal values from the perceived decline occurring within American society. This distancing is illustrated by Canada’s apprehension in deepening ties with the U.S., suggesting an intent to assert its own identity amid the troubling socio-political climate.
Conversely, nations further from the U.S. may still harbor a fascination with American culture, particularly its media and advertising, viewing these as symbols of modernity and success.
This paradox highlights a scenario where, while Canada and Mexico retreat due to the chaotic dynamics of American societal decay, more distant populations become enamored with the captivating allure of American media. These countries might be drawn to the idea of American prosperity despite the ethical and moral erosion evidenced within its borders.
The manipulation and sensationalism prevalent in America's media landscape can further complicate these dynamics. Many nations, attracted to America's cultural outputs, may misinterpret or glorify these influences, failing to recognize the underlying challenges of societal integrity that Americans face. This detachment can create a distorted perception of reality, affecting how both neighbors and distant countries engage with American culture and policy.
Ultimately, the divergence in responses to the disintegration of American norms underscores a complex interaction. While Canada and Mexico express wariness and seek to distance themselves, other nations are drawn into America's tumultuous narrative, leading to an intricate web of admiration mixed with caution, depending on geographic and cultural proximities.
In reflecting on my journey with "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear," I invite readers to ponder the intricate interplay between technology and memory as explored in my story. The protagonist's navigation through a world heavily influenced by advanced tools like the iSet exemplifies the emotional detachment that can arise from technological reliance, a theme that resonates deeply in today's society.
This story emphasizes the universal struggle between the desire to remember and the inclination to forget, encouraging a profound contemplation of the authenticity of our experiences when mediated by technology.
Furthermore, the characters' ethical dilemmas highlight the complexities that emerge when innovation takes precedence over traditional moral norms, posing essential questions about our collective humanity in the face of rapid advancement.
As we reflect on these themes, I hope readers are not only motivated to engage with my story but also to critically evaluate the implications of their relationship with technology and memory in their own lives.
In a future where our interactions are becoming increasingly mediated, it is crucial that we maintain genuine connections that nurture our humanity. Ultimately, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear" (audiobook narrated by voice actor Tom Remick) serves as a cautionary tale, inviting us to find a balance between embracing innovation and preserving the essence of our shared human experience.
No comments:
Post a Comment