A few more days to 2015.. time flies, whether we like it or not.. This week I'm sharing this song by Capital Cities called One Minute More.. its lyrics is a reminder to us to not wait a minute more as the sun (continues to) shine.. Enjoy!
One minute more
Don't wait for an invitation
No need for reservation
This life is an exploration
And you gotta see what I see in you
[chorus]
I can't wait one minute more
The sun does shine (x2)
We can't wait one minute more
The sun does shine (x2)
[end of chorus]
Just think of a destination
I'll be your transportation
We'll find there's a kind of place
That can only be seen with the naked mind
[chorus]
There's a key that opens the door
Will you find and turn it?
Take your time, don't take too long
There's a map that's washed ashore
Will you find it and burn it?
Unleash your imagination
Two stars one constellation
Bright lights just to guide the way
Can you see, what I see in you?
[chorus] (x2)
Have a great New Year's Eve/Day party! Be safe..
Dec 28, 2014
Dec 27, 2014
Poetry Solace: a word about transitions
This week another poem from Billy Collins.. I like his poems because they are simple yet complex.. no need to think too deep about what kind of metaphor(s) he using and what he is trying to say.. yet his poems are not that literal.. Sometimes they are kinda light and funny like this one that I've chosen for you..
A Word About Transitions
Moreover is not a good way to begin a poem
though many start somewhere in the middle.
Secondly should not be placed
at the opening of your second stanza.
Furthermore should be regarded
as a word to avoid,
Aforementioned is rarely found
in poems at all and for good reason.
Most steer clear of notwithstanding
and the same goes for
nevertheless, however,
as a consequence, in any event,
subsequently,
and as we have seen in the previous chapters.
Finally's appearance at the top
of the final stanza is not going to help.
All of which suggests (another no-no)
that poems don't need to tell us where we are
or what is soon to come.
For example, the white bowl of lemons
on a table by a window
is fine all by itself
and, in conclusion, so are
seven elephants standing in the rain.
Have a fun post-Christmas weekend! Enjoy and stay safe!
A Word About Transitions
Moreover is not a good way to begin a poem
though many start somewhere in the middle.
Secondly should not be placed
at the opening of your second stanza.
Furthermore should be regarded
as a word to avoid,
Aforementioned is rarely found
in poems at all and for good reason.
Most steer clear of notwithstanding
and the same goes for
nevertheless, however,
as a consequence, in any event,
subsequently,
and as we have seen in the previous chapters.
Finally's appearance at the top
of the final stanza is not going to help.
All of which suggests (another no-no)
that poems don't need to tell us where we are
or what is soon to come.
For example, the white bowl of lemons
on a table by a window
is fine all by itself
and, in conclusion, so are
seven elephants standing in the rain.
Have a fun post-Christmas weekend! Enjoy and stay safe!
Dec 21, 2014
Sunday Serenade: am i wrong
Found this song while surfing... really like the lyrics.. especially:
Have a fun Christmas week! Have fun but stay safe!
I ain't trying to do what everybody else doingHope you'll like it as much as I do..
Just cause everybody doing what they all do
If one thing I know - I'll fall but I'll grow
Have a fun Christmas week! Have fun but stay safe!
Dec 14, 2014
Sunday Serenade: shake it off
This is the one of the best songs (in my opinion) for exercise.. I know I'm gonna put it in my jogging playlist.. It is fun and catchy, and the lyrics is meaningful.. I'm not gonna put it here cos it's kinda long, but you can get it here.. Let's shake it off with Taylor Swift this Sunday morning!
Try to have a productive week ahead although Christmas is less than 2 weeks away!
Try to have a productive week ahead although Christmas is less than 2 weeks away!
Dec 13, 2014
Poetry Solace: the chairs that no one sits in
For the next few entries, I will be sharing poems from Billy Collins from his poetry collection, Aimless Love, that my library bought on my request. This week the poem I've selected is as stated in the blog title.. Enjoy!
The Chairs That No One Sits In
You see them on porches and on lawns
down by the lakeside,
usually arranged in pairs implying a couple
who might sit there and look out
at the water or the big shade trees.
The trouble is you never see anyone
sitting in these forlorn chairs
though at one time it muse have seemed
a good place to stop and do nothing for a while.
Sometimes there is a little table
between the chairs where no one
is resting a glass or placing a book facedown.
It may not be any of my business,
but let us suppose one day
that everyone who placed those vacant chairs
on a veranda or a dock sat down in them
if only for the sake of remembering
what it was they thought deserved
to be viewed from two chairs,
side by side with a table in between.
The clouds are high and massive on that day.
The woman looks up from her book.
The man takes a sip of his drink.
Then there is only the sound of their looking,
the lapping of lake water, and a call of one bird
then another, cries of joy or warning --
it passes the time to wonder which.
Have a great weekend! Be safe!
The Chairs That No One Sits In
You see them on porches and on lawns
down by the lakeside,
usually arranged in pairs implying a couple
who might sit there and look out
at the water or the big shade trees.
The trouble is you never see anyone
though at one time it muse have seemed
a good place to stop and do nothing for a while.
Sometimes there is a little table
between the chairs where no one
is resting a glass or placing a book facedown.
It may not be any of my business,
but let us suppose one day
that everyone who placed those vacant chairs
on a veranda or a dock sat down in them
if only for the sake of remembering
what it was they thought deserved
to be viewed from two chairs,
side by side with a table in between.
The clouds are high and massive on that day.
The woman looks up from her book.
The man takes a sip of his drink.
Then there is only the sound of their looking,
the lapping of lake water, and a call of one bird
then another, cries of joy or warning --
it passes the time to wonder which.
Have a great weekend! Be safe!
Dec 8, 2014
these past two months
Went home these past two months. Was in Malaysia for the month of October and November. Nothing serious, just went back to help my sis.. If it wasn't for my other commitments in TW, I would have stayed longer, but no matter, I will be back to Msia again in January.
Now that I'm back in TW, I have lots to do, among them taking over as my dept's journal editor and several website translation jobs. Seems like my talents and abilities are finally getting some real appreciation.. :) although I am still committed to getting my PhD, my priorities have changed somewhat.. My main focus, at least for the coming year, is helping my sis and making sure she has all the support she can get.
Lots have happened this year and I foresee lots more are going to happen in the year(s) to come. This blog would most probably be neglected as I have to be stingy with my time. My plate is getting fuller and that's a good thing, right? :) Anyway, I will continue to post some stuff here once in a while, with (slightly) more postings in Twitter and Instagram as they are more spontaneous and less work needed. Of course, FB remains my main SNS that I'll use to keep in contact with all my friends and family.
Happy holidays in advance!
Lots have happened this year and I foresee lots more are going to happen in the year(s) to come. This blog would most probably be neglected as I have to be stingy with my time. My plate is getting fuller and that's a good thing, right? :) Anyway, I will continue to post some stuff here once in a while, with (slightly) more postings in Twitter and Instagram as they are more spontaneous and less work needed. Of course, FB remains my main SNS that I'll use to keep in contact with all my friends and family.
Happy holidays in advance!
Dec 7, 2014
Sunday Serenade: on top of the world
This week I'm sharing a song by Imagine Dragons named 'on top of the world'.. A fun song for a fun Sunday morning! Enjoy!
On top of the world
If you love somebody
Better tell them while they’re here ’cause
They just may run away from you
You’ll never know quite when, well
Then again it just depends on
How long of time is left for you
I’ve had the highest mountains
I’ve had the deepest rivers
You can have it all but life keeps moving
I take it in but don’t look down
[chorus]
‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ay
I’m on top of the world, ‘ay
Waiting on this for a while now
Paying my dues to the dirt
I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ay
Been holding it in for a while, ‘ay
Take you with me if I can
Been dreaming of this since a child
I’m on top of the world.
[end of chorus]
I’ve tried to cut these corners
Try to take the easy way out
I kept on falling short of something
I coulda gave up then but
Then again I couldn’t have ’cause
I’ve traveled all this way for something
I take it in but don’t look down
[chorus]
Oooooooo... OoooAhhhhhOoooAhhhhh[2x]
[chorus]
And I know it’s hard when you’re falling down
And it’s a long way up when you hit the ground
Get up now, get up, get up now.
And I know it’s hard when you’re falling down
And it’s a long way up when you hit the ground
Get up now, get up, get up now.
[chorus]
December is here! Have a fun but safe week ahead!
On top of the world
If you love somebody
Better tell them while they’re here ’cause
They just may run away from you
You’ll never know quite when, well
Then again it just depends on
How long of time is left for you
I’ve had the highest mountains
I’ve had the deepest rivers
You can have it all but life keeps moving
I take it in but don’t look down
[chorus]
‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ay
I’m on top of the world, ‘ay
Waiting on this for a while now
Paying my dues to the dirt
I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ay
Been holding it in for a while, ‘ay
Take you with me if I can
Been dreaming of this since a child
I’m on top of the world.
[end of chorus]
I’ve tried to cut these corners
Try to take the easy way out
I kept on falling short of something
I coulda gave up then but
Then again I couldn’t have ’cause
I’ve traveled all this way for something
I take it in but don’t look down
[chorus]
Oooooooo... OoooAhhhhhOoooAhhhhh[2x]
[chorus]
And I know it’s hard when you’re falling down
And it’s a long way up when you hit the ground
Get up now, get up, get up now.
And I know it’s hard when you’re falling down
And it’s a long way up when you hit the ground
Get up now, get up, get up now.
[chorus]
December is here! Have a fun but safe week ahead!
Nov 30, 2014
Sunday Serenade: a sky full of stars
Not a huge fan of Coldplay but I quite like this song of theirs.. Hope you'll like it too.. Enjoy!
A sky full of stars
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I'm gonna give you my heart
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
'Cause you light up the path
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
I think I saw you
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I wanna die in your arms
'Cause you get lighter the more it gets dark
I'm gonna give you my heart
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
I think I see you
I think I see you
'Cause you're a sky, you're a sky full of stars
Such a heavenly view
You're such a heavenly view
Have a productive week ahead. Have fun at work/school/home!
A sky full of stars
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I'm gonna give you my heart
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
'Cause you light up the path
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
I think I saw you
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I wanna die in your arms
'Cause you get lighter the more it gets dark
I'm gonna give you my heart
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
I think I see you
I think I see you
'Cause you're a sky, you're a sky full of stars
Such a heavenly view
You're such a heavenly view
Have a productive week ahead. Have fun at work/school/home!
Nov 29, 2014
Poetry Solace: winter's formulae
No, winter is not coming, it's already here.. ^.^ Anyway, this week, I'm sharing one final poem from Tomas Tranströmer called 'winter's formulae' as translated by May Swenson..
Winter's Formulae
I
I went to sleep in my bed
and awoke under the keel.
In the morning, four o'clock,
when bones, scoured clean,
collect together coldly.
I went to sleep among swallows
and awoke among eagles.
II
In lamplight, ice on the road
glistens like lard.
This is not Africa.
This is not Europe.
This is nowhere but "here".
And what was "I"
is only a word
in December's dark mouth.
III
The hospital pavilions
glow against the darkness
like lighted TV screens.
A hidden tuning fork
in the immense cold
emits its ringing hum.
I stand under starry sky
and feel the world crawl
in and out of my coat
as in an anthill.
IV
Three black oaks jut out of snow.
So rough, but nimble-fingered.
From their ample bottles
greenery will foam this spring.
V
The bus crawls through winter dusk
like a ship aglow among pines
where the road is a narrow, deep, dead canal.
Few passengers: some old, some youngsters.
If the bus stopped, with its lights out,
the whole world would be obliterated.
Have a fun weekend! Stay warm and stay safe!
Winter's Formulae
I
I went to sleep in my bed
and awoke under the keel.
In the morning, four o'clock,
when bones, scoured clean,
collect together coldly.
I went to sleep among swallows
and awoke among eagles.
In lamplight, ice on the road
glistens like lard.
This is not Africa.
This is not Europe.
This is nowhere but "here".
And what was "I"
is only a word
in December's dark mouth.
III
The hospital pavilions
glow against the darkness
like lighted TV screens.
A hidden tuning fork
in the immense cold
emits its ringing hum.
I stand under starry sky
and feel the world crawl
in and out of my coat
as in an anthill.
Three black oaks jut out of snow.
So rough, but nimble-fingered.
From their ample bottles
greenery will foam this spring.
V
The bus crawls through winter dusk
like a ship aglow among pines
where the road is a narrow, deep, dead canal.
Few passengers: some old, some youngsters.
If the bus stopped, with its lights out,
the whole world would be obliterated.
Have a fun weekend! Stay warm and stay safe!
Nov 23, 2014
Sunday Serenade: human
This week's song is neither fun nor cheery.. in fact it is kinda dark and real.. that's what I like about it.. the lyrics are real and raw.. it is something to ponder upon this Sunday morning..
Human by Christina Perri
I can hold my breath
I can bite my tongue
I can stay awake for days
If that's what you want
Be your number one
I can fake a smile
I can force a laugh
I can dance and play the part
If that's what you ask
Give you all I am
I can do it (x3)
[chorus]
But I'm only human
And I bleed when I fall down
I'm only human
And I crash and I break down
Your words in my head, knives in my heart
You build me up and then I fall apart
'Cause I'm only human
[end of chorus]
I can turn it on
Be a good machine
I can hold the weight of worlds
If that's what you need
Be your everything
I can do it
I can do it
I'll get through it
[chorus]
I'm only human
I'm only human
Just a little human
I can take so much
'Til I've had enough
[chorus]
Have a great week ahead! Be healthy!
Human by Christina Perri
I can hold my breath
I can bite my tongue
I can stay awake for days
If that's what you want
Be your number one
I can fake a smile
I can force a laugh
I can dance and play the part
If that's what you ask
Give you all I am
I can do it (x3)
[chorus]
But I'm only human
And I bleed when I fall down
I'm only human
And I crash and I break down
Your words in my head, knives in my heart
You build me up and then I fall apart
'Cause I'm only human
[end of chorus]
I can turn it on
Be a good machine
I can hold the weight of worlds
If that's what you need
Be your everything
I can do it
I can do it
I'll get through it
[chorus]
I'm only human
I'm only human
Just a little human
I can take so much
'Til I've had enough
[chorus]
Have a great week ahead! Be healthy!
Nov 16, 2014
Sunday Serenade: ain't it fun
Let's have some fun this week with a song from Paramore.. Enjoy!
Have a great week ahead! Be healthy and stay safe!
Nov 15, 2014
Poetry Solace: journey
This week is back to Tomas Tranströmer.. another poem by this Swedish Nobel Laureate. It is translated by May Swenson, an American poet. Hope you'll like it.
Journey
On the subway platform.
A crowd among billboards
in a staring dead light.
The train comes and fetches
faces and briefcases.
Darkness next. We sit
like statues in the cars
hauled into the tunnels.
Strain, dreams, strain.
At the stations below sea level
the news of darkness is sold.
People moving melancholy,
mum, beneath clockfaces.
The train carries a load
of street clothes and souls.
Looks in all directions,
passing through the mountain.
Nothing changing yet.
But near the surface begins
the hum of freedom's bees.
We emerge from the earth.
The countryside flaps its wings
once, and then subsides
under us, wide and greenish.
Shucks of corn blow in
across the platforms.
End of the line! I ride
beyond the end of the line.
How many aboard? Four,
five, hardly more.
Houses, roads, skies,
fjords, mountains
have opened their windows.
Have a great weekend! Stay healthy and be safe!
Journey
On the subway platform.
A crowd among billboards
in a staring dead light.
The train comes and fetches
faces and briefcases.
like statues in the cars
hauled into the tunnels.
Strain, dreams, strain.
At the stations below sea level
the news of darkness is sold.
People moving melancholy,
mum, beneath clockfaces.
The train carries a load
of street clothes and souls.
Looks in all directions,
passing through the mountain.
Nothing changing yet.
But near the surface begins
the hum of freedom's bees.
We emerge from the earth.
The countryside flaps its wings
once, and then subsides
under us, wide and greenish.
Shucks of corn blow in
across the platforms.
End of the line! I ride
beyond the end of the line.
How many aboard? Four,
five, hardly more.
Houses, roads, skies,
fjords, mountains
have opened their windows.
Have a great weekend! Stay healthy and be safe!
Nov 9, 2014
Sunday Serenade: friends
This is a song that I would like to dedicate to all my friends, aptly named 'Friends' by Travis. :)
Friends
Who cheers you up
When you are down
Who brings you cups of coffee
Who picks you up
When you're in town
Whatever makes you happy
And I'm glad you're better now
But I'm sad you're not around
[chorus]
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
[end of chorus]
ooohhh...
ooohhh...
Who wakes you up
When you're late for work
Who makes the bed so lovely
Who found your sock
Who picked your shirt
Whatever makes you love me
And I'm glad I'm better now
But I'm sad you're not around
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
ooohhh...
ooohhh...
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
Friends
Will never decieve you
and turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
ooohhh...
Have a good and productive week ahead!
Friends
Who cheers you up
When you are down
Who brings you cups of coffee
Who picks you up
When you're in town
Whatever makes you happy
And I'm glad you're better now
But I'm sad you're not around
[chorus]
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
[end of chorus]
ooohhh...
ooohhh...
Who wakes you up
When you're late for work
Who makes the bed so lovely
Who found your sock
Who picked your shirt
Whatever makes you love me
And I'm glad I'm better now
But I'm sad you're not around
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
ooohhh...
ooohhh...
Friends
Will never desert you
Or turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
Friends
Will never decieve you
and turn against
Friends
Won't love you and leave you
To mend the fence
ooohhh...
Have a good and productive week ahead!
Nov 2, 2014
Sunday Serenade: rather be
Again this week's song is chosen for its music video.. why? cos it was shot in Japan! I hate to say it but I miss Japan, especially its autumn season.. so it is kinda nostalgic to see some typical Japanese scenes in the music video.. of course, the song is pretty catchy too.. Enjoy!
Rather Be
by Clean Bandit ft Jess Gylnne
[Verse 1:]
We're a thousand miles from comfort, we have traveled land and sea
But as long as you are with me, there's no place I'd rather be
I would wait forever, exalted in the scene
As long as I am with you, my heart continues to beat
[Pre-Chorus:]
With every step we take, Kyoto to The Bay
Strolling so casually
We're different and the same, get you another name
Switch up the batteries
[Chorus:]
If you gave me a chance I would take it
It's a shot in the dark but I'll make it
Know with all of your heart, you can't shake me
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
N-n-n-no, no, no, no place I'd rather be [3x]
[Verse 2:]
We staked out on a mission to find our inner peace
Make it everlasting so nothing's incomplete
It's easy being with you, sacred simplicity
As long as we're together, there's no place I'd rather be
[Pre-Chorus]
[Chorus]
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
[Bridge:]
Hmmmmmmmmmm, hoooooooooo
Be [9x]
Yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah, yeah, yeah
[Chorus]
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
Have a productive week ahead! Stay warm and be safe!
Rather Be
by Clean Bandit ft Jess Gylnne
[Verse 1:]
We're a thousand miles from comfort, we have traveled land and sea
But as long as you are with me, there's no place I'd rather be
I would wait forever, exalted in the scene
As long as I am with you, my heart continues to beat
[Pre-Chorus:]
With every step we take, Kyoto to The Bay
Strolling so casually
We're different and the same, get you another name
Switch up the batteries
[Chorus:]
If you gave me a chance I would take it
It's a shot in the dark but I'll make it
Know with all of your heart, you can't shake me
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
N-n-n-no, no, no, no place I'd rather be [3x]
[Verse 2:]
We staked out on a mission to find our inner peace
Make it everlasting so nothing's incomplete
It's easy being with you, sacred simplicity
As long as we're together, there's no place I'd rather be
[Pre-Chorus]
[Chorus]
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
[Bridge:]
Hmmmmmmmmmm, hoooooooooo
Be [9x]
Yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah-e-yeah, yeah, yeah
[Chorus]
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be
Have a productive week ahead! Stay warm and be safe!
Nov 1, 2014
Poetry Solace: day of the dead
Today is the Day of the Dead, so I think it is appropriate for me to share a poem about this celebration. This is a poem from Joy Harjo's In Mad Love and War poem collection.
Day of the Dead
This is a witching season, the pivotal mouth as the world of the dead, staggered with the living, opens. Children dressed as spirits and monsters suck candy, parade the streets.
Wind is electric, sharp as truth. Spirits play crack-the-whip in the abyss. I have needed to talk but you are insanely absent and I have become insanely mute. When I hold the compass you gave me, the needle points in a direction that is neither yes nor no. The star map has become symbols I can't describe because it delineates a system entering a distant compassionate universe. I have built a fire in the cave of my body, and hope the devil wind gives it a chance. There is an underground river with blind fish nearby. What do they choose in this season where there must be spirit fish with wings? I cannot sing song of either staying or leaving unless I know what shape it takes when it leaves my mouth. And which direction, because I forgot to tell you that love changes molecular structure. I am transformed but without a map. The Day of the Dead marks skeletal transition and flowers bloom in the snow. I have checked the weather, and will tend the fire until I am forced to join the parade. Then I will be a madman. I will drink whiskey and slow-dance with slim boys, rock with glitter angels, before going home alone. Tomorrow I will feed the dead. Then I must find you.
Have a great weekend! Have fun and stay safe!
Day of the Dead
This is a witching season, the pivotal mouth as the world of the dead, staggered with the living, opens. Children dressed as spirits and monsters suck candy, parade the streets.
Have a great weekend! Have fun and stay safe!
Oct 26, 2014
Sunday Serenade: chandelier
This week I'm sharing a song by Sia. Actually the main reason for sharing this song is its music (lyric) video which is pretty impressive visually.. Hope you'll like it! Enjoy your Sunday!
Have a good week ahead! Be healthy and stay safe!
Oct 19, 2014
Sunday Serenade: maps
Time for a new Maroon 5 song! :) I like their songs in general because they are catchy and fun in a way.. Hope you like this one!
Have a productive week ahead cos I know I will!
Have a productive week ahead cos I know I will!
Oct 18, 2014
Poetry Solace: midnight and kyrie
This week I'm sharing 2 poems from Tomas Tranströmer, a Swedish poet and a winner of the 2011 Nobel Prize in Literature. These two poems are English translations from their original Swedish by renowned poets which I believe had tried their best to preserve and conserve the poems' nuances.
Midnight Turning Point
(translated by May Swenson)
Unmoving, the ant in the forest looks into
nothing. And nothing is heard but the ticking
of dark greenery, nightlong the murmur deep
in summer's chasm.
The spruce tree at point, like a clock's jagged
hand. The ant aglow in the mountain's shadow.
A bird screams! At last. Slowly the cloud cart
begins to roll.
Kyrie
(translated by Robin Fulton)
Sometimes my life opened its eyes in the dark.
A feeling as if crowds drew through the streets
in blindness and anxiety on the way towards a miracle,
while I invisibly remain standing.
As the child falls asleep in terror
listening to the heart's heavy tread.
Slowly, slowly until morning puts its rays in the locks
and the doors of darkness open.
Have a fun weekend! Be safe!
Midnight Turning Point(translated by May Swenson)
Unmoving, the ant in the forest looks into
nothing. And nothing is heard but the ticking
of dark greenery, nightlong the murmur deep
in summer's chasm.
The spruce tree at point, like a clock's jagged
hand. The ant aglow in the mountain's shadow.
A bird screams! At last. Slowly the cloud cart
begins to roll.
Kyrie
(translated by Robin Fulton)
Sometimes my life opened its eyes in the dark.
A feeling as if crowds drew through the streets
in blindness and anxiety on the way towards a miracle,
while I invisibly remain standing.
As the child falls asleep in terror
listening to the heart's heavy tread.
Slowly, slowly until morning puts its rays in the locks
and the doors of darkness open.
Have a fun weekend! Be safe!
Oct 12, 2014
Sunday Serenade: notes to the coroner
This week I''m sharing a song by American country singer, Chely Wright. I've been hooked on country songs lately, and her album, Lifted Off the Ground, has been in my playlist for a couple of weeks now. I like the tongue-in-cheek nature of the song's lyrics. Enjoy!
Notes to the Coroner
I hope I haven't been lying here long
I'd say, "I told you so," but I'm long gone
Who called you? Who found me?
Who had to spread the news?
I hope it wasn't my sister
I wrote it down for you in case I didn't survive
In a black notebook right there by my side
Be sure to read it, it'll tell you everything
Go ahead and start from December
[chorus]
These are my notes to the coroner
Clues with no compromise
Notes to the coroner
Details of my demise
[end of chorus]
You'll wanna take my blood to smear on a slide
But if you just read on you'll know how I died
Terminal sadness, chronic regret
A big ball of pain in pajamas
[chorus]
Palpitations of a broken heart
Triggered my shortness of breath
I lost too much love and then I fell apart
Official cause of my death
Notes to the coroner
Clues with no compromise
Notes to the coroner
Details of my demise
[chorus]
Have a productive week ahead! Stay safe and healthy!
Notes to the Coroner
I hope I haven't been lying here long
I'd say, "I told you so," but I'm long gone
Who called you? Who found me?
Who had to spread the news?
I hope it wasn't my sister
I wrote it down for you in case I didn't survive
In a black notebook right there by my side
Be sure to read it, it'll tell you everything
Go ahead and start from December
[chorus]
These are my notes to the coroner
Clues with no compromise
Notes to the coroner
Details of my demise
[end of chorus]
You'll wanna take my blood to smear on a slide
But if you just read on you'll know how I died
Terminal sadness, chronic regret
A big ball of pain in pajamas
[chorus]
Palpitations of a broken heart
Triggered my shortness of breath
I lost too much love and then I fell apart
Official cause of my death
Notes to the coroner
Clues with no compromise
Notes to the coroner
Details of my demise
[chorus]
Have a productive week ahead! Stay safe and healthy!
Oct 5, 2014
Sunday Serenade: love will come through
This week I'm sharing 'Love will come through' by Travis. We just have to believe, no? :)
Enjoy!
Love will Come Through
If I told you a secret
You won't tell a soul
Will you hold it and
Keep it alive
Cause it's burning a hole
And I can't get to sleep
And I can't live alone
In this life
So look up, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
The mountain
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
So take me, don't leave me
Take me, don't leave me
Baby, love will come through
It's just waiting for you
[end of chorus]
And you stand at the crossroads
Of highroads and lowroads
And I've got a feeling
It's right
If it's real what I'm feeling
There's no make believing
The sound of the wings
Of the flight
Of a dove, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
The mountain
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
Oh, look up, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
Love will come through
Love will come through
Love will come through
Have a smooth-sailing week ahead! Be productive!
Enjoy!
Love will Come Through
If I told you a secret
You won't tell a soul
Will you hold it and
Keep it alive
Cause it's burning a hole
And I can't get to sleep
And I can't live alone
In this life
So look up, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
The mountain
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
So take me, don't leave me
Take me, don't leave me
Baby, love will come through
It's just waiting for you
[end of chorus]
And you stand at the crossroads
Of highroads and lowroads
And I've got a feeling
It's right
If it's real what I'm feeling
There's no make believing
The sound of the wings
Of the flight
Of a dove, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
The mountain
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
Oh, look up, take it away
Don't look da-da-da-down
If the world isn't turning
Your heart won't return
Anyone, anything, anyhow
[chorus]
Love will come through
Love will come through
Love will come through
Have a smooth-sailing week ahead! Be productive!
Oct 4, 2014
Poetry Solace: eagle poem
This week I'm sharing a poem by Joy Harjo, a Native American poet. I've always been fascinated with eagles and hawks, maybe because my (Chinese) nickname in primary school is ‘吳老鷹’. So I am drawn to the strength, majesty and freedom these birds symbolized. Hope you like this poem about eagles, taken from her poetry book, In Mad Love and War. Enjoy!
Eagle Poem
To pray you open your whole self
To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon
To one whole voice that is you.
And know there is more
That you can't see, can't hear,
Can't know except in moments
Steadily growing, and in languages
That aren't always sound but other
Circles of motion.
Like eagle that Sunday morning
Over Salt River. Circled in blue sky
In wind, swept our hearts clean
With sacred wings.
We see you, see ourselves and know
That we must take the utmost care
And kindness in all things.
Breathe in, knowing we are made of
All this, and breathe, knowing
We are truly blessed because we
Were born, and die soon within a
True circle of motion,
Like eagle rounding out the morning
Inside us.
We pray that it will be done
In beauty.
In beauty.
Have a fun weekend! Be safe!
Eagle Poem
To pray you open your whole self
To one whole voice that is you.
And know there is more
That you can't see, can't hear,
Can't know except in moments
Steadily growing, and in languages
That aren't always sound but other
Circles of motion.
Like eagle that Sunday morning
Over Salt River. Circled in blue sky
In wind, swept our hearts clean
With sacred wings.
We see you, see ourselves and know
That we must take the utmost care
And kindness in all things.
Breathe in, knowing we are made of
All this, and breathe, knowing
We are truly blessed because we
Were born, and die soon within a
True circle of motion,
Like eagle rounding out the morning
Inside us.
We pray that it will be done
In beauty.
In beauty.
Have a fun weekend! Be safe!
Sep 29, 2014
going home in sep
Will be going home tomorrow.. it's not a routine nor my annual balik kampung. It's to help my sis in her new venture.. Will be in Msia for 2 months and back in TW in Dec as I still have classes to attend..
Looking forward to this unexpected trip home.. :)
Looking forward to this unexpected trip home.. :)
Sep 28, 2014
Sunday Serenade: my life
Sometimes songs don't have to be too complicated.. no need for 'deep' lyrics or fancy arrangements, simple words can be as captivating as well.. that's one of the reason why I really like Best Coast.. So this week, I'm gonna share another of their songs.. Enjoy!
My life
When I go on airplanes, I listen to your voice
And when I go to sleep at night, I'm wishing for a choice
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right, feel right
All the things I'm taking are making me insane
And when I go to sleep at night, I'm wishing for a change.
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right, feel right
My mom was right
I don't want to die
I want to live my life
My mom was right
I don't want to die
I want to live my life
My life, my life, my life, my life
My life, my life, my life, my life, my life.
Have a great work week! Stay healthy!
My life
When I go on airplanes, I listen to your voice
And when I go to sleep at night, I'm wishing for a choice
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right, feel right
All the things I'm taking are making me insane
And when I go to sleep at night, I'm wishing for a change.
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right
To go back in time
Makes what's wrong feel right, feel right
My mom was right
I don't want to die
I want to live my life
My mom was right
I don't want to die
I want to live my life
My life, my life, my life, my life
My life, my life, my life, my life, my life.
Have a great work week! Stay healthy!
Sep 21, 2014
Sunday Serenade: writing to reach you
This week I am sharing another song by Travis called 'Writing to reach you' which I really like. Enjoy!
Writing to reach you
Every day I wake up and it's Sunday
Whatever's in my head won't go away
The radio is playing all the usual
And what's a wonderwall anyway
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
It's good to know that you are home for Christmas
It's good to know that you are doing well
It's good to know that you all know I'm hurting
It's good to know I'm feeling not so well
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
Do you know it's true
And that won't do
Maybe then tomorrow will be Monday
And whatever's in my head should go away
Still the radio keeps playing all the usual
And what's a wonderwall anyway
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
Do you know it's true
And that won't do
You know it's you
I'm talking to
Have a good week ahead! Stay safe!
Writing to reach you
Every day I wake up and it's Sunday
Whatever's in my head won't go away
The radio is playing all the usual
And what's a wonderwall anyway
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
It's good to know that you are home for Christmas
It's good to know that you are doing well
It's good to know that you all know I'm hurting
It's good to know I'm feeling not so well
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
Do you know it's true
And that won't do
Maybe then tomorrow will be Monday
And whatever's in my head should go away
Still the radio keeps playing all the usual
And what's a wonderwall anyway
Because my inside is outside
My right side's on the left side
'Cos I'm writing to reach you
But I might never reach you
I long to teach you about you
But that's not you
Do you know it's true
And that won't do
You know it's you
I'm talking to
Have a good week ahead! Stay safe!
Sep 20, 2014
Poetry Solace: of mother nature
One last poem from Emily Dickinson.. Next I'll move to ..
MOTHER NATURE
Nature, the gentlest mother,
Impatient of no child,
The feeblest or the waywardest, -
Her admonition mild
In forest and the hill
By traveller is heard,
Restraining rampant squirrel
Or too impetuous bird.
How fair her conversation,
A summer afternoon, -
Her household, her assembly;
And when the sun goes down
Her voice among the aisles
Incites the timid prayer
Of the minutest cricket,
The most unworthy flower.
When all children sleep
She turns as long way
As will suffice to light her lamps;
Then, bending from the sky
With infinite affection
And infiniter care,
Her golden finger on her lip,
Wills silence everywhere.
Have a great weekend! Enjoy but stay safe!
MOTHER NATURE
Nature, the gentlest mother,
Impatient of no child,
The feeblest or the waywardest, -
Her admonition mild
In forest and the hill
By traveller is heard,
Restraining rampant squirrel
Or too impetuous bird.
How fair her conversation,
A summer afternoon, -
Her household, her assembly;
And when the sun goes down
Her voice among the aisles
Incites the timid prayer
Of the minutest cricket,
The most unworthy flower.
When all children sleep
She turns as long way
As will suffice to light her lamps;
Then, bending from the sky
With infinite affection
And infiniter care,
Her golden finger on her lip,
Wills silence everywhere.
Have a great weekend! Enjoy but stay safe!
Sep 18, 2014
Europe 2014: erasmus
My EGOS conference was held in Erasmus University Rotterdam. Didn't manage to take a lot of photos of the campus, but here are 3 of them.
I prefer universities to have proper (well-designated) campus instead of being situated within or close to CBD or other neighborhood. I like to know where the campus starts and ends, and have a clearly defined school grounds. The campus of Erasmus University reminded me of NTU with its location far (far is relative in the small island of Singapore) from the city, its sizable campus and its abundant greenery (trees, gardens and ponds) between buildings.
Would have loved to explore the university more if not for my itinerary. I didn't allocate enough time for a comprehensive tour as I was too preoccupied with visiting the city of Rotterdam and The Hague. Anyway, I will ensure that I list campus tour as one of the itineraries for my next international conference!
 |
| statue of Desiderius Erasmus |
Would have loved to explore the university more if not for my itinerary. I didn't allocate enough time for a comprehensive tour as I was too preoccupied with visiting the city of Rotterdam and The Hague. Anyway, I will ensure that I list campus tour as one of the itineraries for my next international conference!
Sep 15, 2014
Europe 2014: EGOS
I think it is about time I write about the conference that made my Europe trip came true. My adviser mentioned this conference during one of his classes last year. The 30th Colloquium organized by European Group for Organizational Studies (EGOS) was held in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Since I've yet to visit The Netherlands, I've decided to submit a paper for it and see if I could be accepted. After about 5 months of reading, researching, and writing, I produced, first a short paper of 3,000 words which was accepted and then a full paper of 26 pages for the colloquium.
This was my first truly international academic conference. Although I've attended a few while in Japan and Taiwan, they were only 'international' in name as most of the attendees are locals (meaning bad English, both oral and written) and/or 'old boys' club' (where the same few faces turn up every year and sing each other's praises unashamedly). The EGOS Colloquium resembles more of what I thought a truly international academic conference should be. There were more than 1500 attendees from over 100 countries!
I went to the venue, Erasmus University, the day before the conference to attend a pre-colloquium workshop. The EGOS Women's Network Meeting was a wonderful opportunity for women academicians to share their experience and knowledge. I joined the round table on publication strategy which I really thought was very useful. Most of them are from European and American universities and seemed to know each other. As someone who is not very apt in socializing in a big group, I just observed and absorbed the entire experience.
The opening ceremony was held in a two-level lecture hall which kinda reminded me of Victoria Theatre in Singapore with its steep steps and cramped seats. The ceremony had the usual - a couple of welcome speeches by the organizing committees and one keynote speech. The keynote speech was interesting and not too dry. Also, I really like that they incorporated some jokes about the World Cup in their speeches and kinda ribbed the Americans for their failure to reach the quarterfinals. Another surprise was a modern dance performance by Erasmus students with live music (maybe their symphony band). It was kinda long and repetitive after a while but I gave them full marks for their enthusiasm and passion.
There were many diverse themes being discussed in this colloquium. We were grouped according to our sub-themes so that we can benefit from those who are doing similar research. Each sub-theme group was allocated a small conference room for participants to present their papers. The rooms were scattered all around the Erasmus campus in different buildings. It was a nice way for the participants to get to see the university. Most rooms can accommodate around 20 participants and it was a rather intimate setting. We were all seated around tables arranged in a U shape which I prefer. Unlike in a big lecture hall, this arrangement forces everyone to pay attention to the presenter.
Usually, there were 3 papers scheduled in each 90 minute session. This meant that each author will have about 20 minutes to present his/her paper and 10 minutes for Q&A. I was scheduled in the last session on the first day, from 16:00 to 17:30, with another group from China. Unfortunately, they didn't turn up, so I was the only one to present during this time slot. In order to be fair, I was given the same amount of time to present and was not expected to fill that entire 90 minutes.
My adviser didn't register for the colloquium but he came with his wife to give me some support. They were travelling around the region so he dropped by to cheer me on. I met with them at the registration booth during the short break before my session. I took them to the conference room where my session was being held. They decided to sit outside and listen to my presentation. He said that he would bail me out if I got stumped during Q&A.
Frankly, I managed to calm myself down before I met my adviser. Although I had been practicing my presentation in my head many times, I was quite nervous the night before because this was after all my first international conference. And I was somewhat nervous during earlier sessions too but when it was time for me, I kinda became numb. The nervousness reached its highest when I was introduced to the group and then it was gone once I got into my grove. I told myself to just winged it cos what was the worst that could happen, right? I've handled worst situations and more hard-to-please people than a handful of scholars.
In the end, I think I did a fairly good presentation. ^.^ Everyone in the session was very attentive and supportive. Just the fact that some of them actually read my paper and found my research 'angle' interesting already made my day. And the icing to the cake was that they provided some really good suggestions and very constructive comments. That I think is the main reason to attend and/or present in an international conference(s), no? :)
Seriously, after attending a REAL international academic conference, I really can't stand going to a 'fake' or 'pseudo' conference that is only international in name only.
I went to the venue, Erasmus University, the day before the conference to attend a pre-colloquium workshop. The EGOS Women's Network Meeting was a wonderful opportunity for women academicians to share their experience and knowledge. I joined the round table on publication strategy which I really thought was very useful. Most of them are from European and American universities and seemed to know each other. As someone who is not very apt in socializing in a big group, I just observed and absorbed the entire experience.
There were many diverse themes being discussed in this colloquium. We were grouped according to our sub-themes so that we can benefit from those who are doing similar research. Each sub-theme group was allocated a small conference room for participants to present their papers. The rooms were scattered all around the Erasmus campus in different buildings. It was a nice way for the participants to get to see the university. Most rooms can accommodate around 20 participants and it was a rather intimate setting. We were all seated around tables arranged in a U shape which I prefer. Unlike in a big lecture hall, this arrangement forces everyone to pay attention to the presenter.
Usually, there were 3 papers scheduled in each 90 minute session. This meant that each author will have about 20 minutes to present his/her paper and 10 minutes for Q&A. I was scheduled in the last session on the first day, from 16:00 to 17:30, with another group from China. Unfortunately, they didn't turn up, so I was the only one to present during this time slot. In order to be fair, I was given the same amount of time to present and was not expected to fill that entire 90 minutes.
My adviser didn't register for the colloquium but he came with his wife to give me some support. They were travelling around the region so he dropped by to cheer me on. I met with them at the registration booth during the short break before my session. I took them to the conference room where my session was being held. They decided to sit outside and listen to my presentation. He said that he would bail me out if I got stumped during Q&A.
In the end, I think I did a fairly good presentation. ^.^ Everyone in the session was very attentive and supportive. Just the fact that some of them actually read my paper and found my research 'angle' interesting already made my day. And the icing to the cake was that they provided some really good suggestions and very constructive comments. That I think is the main reason to attend and/or present in an international conference(s), no? :)
Seriously, after attending a REAL international academic conference, I really can't stand going to a 'fake' or 'pseudo' conference that is only international in name only.
Sep 14, 2014
Sunday Serenade: in my time
Gonna share this 2nd song from Kurt Vile, 'In my time' with you all this week. Summer is kinda drawing to an end and autumn is coming, if it hasn't already in some places.. Hope you'll enjoy this song as much as I did.. :)
In my time
In my day I was young and crazy
Sure I didn't know shit, but now I'm lazy
One day I won't even know what was better
Then again and now I want much of nothing anyway
Two of us, one on each shoulder, I'm tryin' to turn
We're pullin' over, on this shoulder, ain't driving
I know when I get older, I'm dyin'
Well, I got everything I need and now
And it's fine now, it's fine now, it's fine
In my time I was whack and wild
I was just being myself then
But then I sat there just tryin' on faces
Wanna erase how discreet disgrace is
Pulling over on the shoulder, ain't driving
Put two of us, one on each shoulder, I'm tryin' to turn
I know when we get older, I'm dyin'
Well, I got everything I need and now
And it's fine now, it's fine now, it's fine
Have a productive week ahead! Live long and prosper! :)
In my time
In my day I was young and crazy
Sure I didn't know shit, but now I'm lazy
One day I won't even know what was better
Then again and now I want much of nothing anyway
Two of us, one on each shoulder, I'm tryin' to turn
We're pullin' over, on this shoulder, ain't driving
I know when I get older, I'm dyin'
Well, I got everything I need and now
And it's fine now, it's fine now, it's fine
In my time I was whack and wild
I was just being myself then
But then I sat there just tryin' on faces
Wanna erase how discreet disgrace is
Pulling over on the shoulder, ain't driving
Put two of us, one on each shoulder, I'm tryin' to turn
I know when we get older, I'm dyin'
Well, I got everything I need and now
And it's fine now, it's fine now, it's fine
Have a productive week ahead! Live long and prosper! :)
Sep 12, 2014
Europe 2014: canals @ amsterdam
Another thing that Amsterdam is famous for is its canals. I am totally in love with the canals, the boat houses, the bridges and the houses that lined these canals. So please forgive me for sharing some of the many photos I've taken.. :)
See? I really can't get enough of these canals and the sights it presented..
See? I really can't get enough of these canals and the sights it presented..
Sep 8, 2014
school in a weeks' time
School is gonna start next week. Time flies when you're having fun and I sure had lots of fun this summer holidays. Think I am still coming down from the high of my Europe 2014 trip the whole of August. :PThese past 8 weeks since I came back from my trip, I didn't totally neglect my research. I read more than 20 papers and about 16 books of all sorts. Reading is never the problem. My hang-up is to stop reading and start the actual writing of a paper. Hopefully the start of a new semester will force me to start writing....
Also, this semester is the last one that I need to attend classes. Although I've accumulated (more than) enough credits, there is still one class that I need to attend. Yes, it is one of those attendance-required-but-credits-not-counted kind of class. Anyway, I will be going to school most of the days as I've gotten a room in the library again for this coming semester. What can I say, I love my library! :) Hopefully I'll be able to produce a paper or two before the end of this new semester.
Sep 7, 2014
Sunday Serenade: wakin on a pretty day
The third artist that I was introduced by my CS hosts is Kurt Vile, an American musician. Again, just a guitar strumming accompanied by a simple backup band. This is one of my favorite songs from his album, Wakin on a Pretty Daze, called 'Wakin on a Pretty Day'. Enjoy!
Wakin on a pretty day
Wakin in the dawn of day
I gotta think about what I wanna say
Phone ringin off the shelf
I guess he wanted to kill himself
Wakin on a pretty day
Don't know why I ever go away
It's hard to explain
My love in this daze
You can say I've been most all around
But honey I ain't goin nowhere
Don't worry bout a thing
It's only dying
I love along a straight line
Nothin always comes to mind
To be frank, I'm fried
But I don't mind
Yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah yeah
Been diggin
Layin low, low, low
I'm diggin
Layin low, low, low
Dig, dig in
To these lives that we are livin
Livin low
Lackadaisically so
Risin at the crack of dawn
I gotta think about what wisecrack
I'm gonna drop along the way today
Phone ringin off the shelf
I guess somebody got somethin they
Really wanna prove to us today
Wakin on a pretty day
For any place
No use sayin nothin
To explain it
To my loved ones today
Have a good week ahead! Be productive!
Wakin on a pretty day
Wakin in the dawn of day
I gotta think about what I wanna say
Phone ringin off the shelf
I guess he wanted to kill himself
Wakin on a pretty day
Don't know why I ever go away
It's hard to explain
My love in this daze
You can say I've been most all around
But honey I ain't goin nowhere
Don't worry bout a thing
It's only dying
I love along a straight line
Nothin always comes to mind
To be frank, I'm fried
But I don't mind
Yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah yeah
Been diggin
Layin low, low, low
I'm diggin
Layin low, low, low
Dig, dig in
To these lives that we are livin
Livin low
Lackadaisically so
Risin at the crack of dawn
I gotta think about what wisecrack
I'm gonna drop along the way today
Phone ringin off the shelf
I guess somebody got somethin they
Really wanna prove to us today
Wakin on a pretty day
For any place
No use sayin nothin
To explain it
To my loved ones today
Have a good week ahead! Be productive!
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