2025 Australian Federal Election Saturday 3 May

I am voting for The Greens in the Senate and House of Representatives. 

Why? Because I'm driven by a deep concern for the integrity of science, the consequences of corporate greed, inequality, social justice, our climate and environment, animal welfare, the impact of artificial intelligence, and various other progressive causes...

And to think that I once was not only a Liberal Party voter but an active member of it?

What's changed, I witnessed the tangible effects of climate change. A growing awareness of animal welfare concerns in industrial agriculture and factory farming, issues that lead to a re-evaluation of conservative stances that may not prioritize environmental protection or animal rights. And more of course but you get the picture... Check me out on X: @OttavioMCMLXI 

Click here to read about The Greens platform. 

Blog Pause

Image: Otto April '25 

"I don't write jokes because they come out sounding like philosophical arguments" !! 🙃

I haven't been posting here as much lately because I've been busy creating content at X...

Check me out there :)

My X (Twitter) handle is: @OttavioMCMLXI

A Heart-Wrenching Display: Reflections and Considerations on the Behavior of Our Relatives

In early February 2024, I began noticing something was with Joy. She seemed troubled by something, though its source was unknown to me. When I asked her about it, all she revealed was that it involved her sisters, whom I'll refer to here as SA and LM - their initials. In the first instance, I asked if I was somehow involved; she reassured me that I wasn't. What was causing such tension among the three sisters? I never found out, but I was later informed that things had settled down and all was sorted. This calm was short-lived. Around a month later, in early March, Joy received a phone call from both SA and LM, reigniting the dispute.

The conversation became intense and greatly upset Joy. I was not home when the call was made having arrived toward the end of their conversation. As I listened, it became evident that the topic revolved around my daughter's separation and divorce, specifically regarding her ex-husband and the negotiations, particularly concerning child sharing arrangements. While SA and LM emphasised that their concern was primarily for the welfare of my grandchildren, it became apparent that their interests extended beyond this. The conversation also turned to other aspects of the divorce negotiations that were supposed to be confidential, only between the solicitors representing their clients and immediate family. They questioned how much our former son-in-law would receive as part of the divorce settlement and future child support payments, even suggesting that he might be financially incapable of meeting these obligations.

Without elaborating further, two fundamental and disturbing things became apparent. SA and LM were fully informed about all facets of the divorce negotiations between our daughter and her former husband, LR - his initials. Unbeknown to us, LR had been in regular contact with my wife's side of the family in the months leading up to this revelation. He divulged the details of an ongoing divorce negotiation, which at the time of this writing, was still active, thus initiating a situation that undermined the legal process. Additionally, he succeeded in persuading his audience to align with his perspective.

It appears that, from the perspective of the callers, my daughter, Joy and I have been and continue to be at fault regarding all aspects of the divorce proceedings. What astounds is how they could let someone outside of the family manipulate them such that they have turned on us. There is so much SA and LM do not know nor should they know. A divorce is difficult for any family. When news broke that our daughter and her now ex had split it was painful enough and many months of mental anguish consumed us. This anguish continues today accordingly, the last thing we need is more grief from extended family. Evidently we have been judged harshly. Did LR bother to outline how much we have done for him throughout the years, not to mention the love extended. Did he mention how we embraced him as family. Evidenced by our actions such as becoming guarantors for his loan for gender-affirming (sex change) surgery before he was even engaged to our daughter! Despite this, we wholeheartedly embraced both him and our daughter, who at the time was showing bisexual/pansexual characteristics. We accepted his diversity without judgment, unlike some who readily advocate for inclusion, but only until it personally affects them. How we willingly extended our support by assisting him in purchasing a car, covering car servicing expenses not merely bringing the car for servicing and returning it, mowing his lawn, and contributing significantly towards the purchase of a home, including additional expenses for landscaping, window shutters, air conditioning and other peripherals all in all totalling over $110,000. We also financially facilitated his journey to parenthood by covering all the expenses of multiple rounds of IVF treatments to the tune of just under $50,000. The result? Two wonderful kids.

Even after his separation and moving into rent our support continued unabated. We actively participated in overseeing trades work at his rental property on multiple occasions, funded plumbing services and a new tap installation, helped acquire household appliances like a new dryer, and even took care of repairs for his car, including a costly bonnet respray ($750). Remember what I did for Hunter's bike LR?

Furthermore, we anticipated his financial hardship in Nov 2023 due to placement and in good faith, offered $10,000 up front two months earlier - he never bothered to get back to us about that. We helped with practical tasks like assembling furniture and accompanying him to medical appointments. We were there for him in times of emotional distress, such as when his pet passed away and we cleaned everything up or when he needed assistance in a moment of vulnerability like being locked in the bathroom. Our commitment to his well-being was evident in our consistent offer to provide financial support whenever he found himself in need.

However, it appears unlikely that LR discussed these acts of kindness with SA or LM for that would make us look good, but more disappointingly his audience failed to question for there is always two sides to a story - Understanding is like a three-edged sword - it has your side, their side, and the truth that lies somewhere in between. They could have questioned and attempted to gather all the facts before forming conclusions. Regardless, despite our continuous support and genuine care, we are still viewed in a negative light. But, in reality, are we truly such terrible people? An independent legal arbiter would beg to differ.

Notwithstanding, the damage is done. Both SA and LM have passed judgement based on faulty premises without understanding the intricate financial details that led to the numbers being presented. Their intervention has already sparked a new wave of communications between the opposing legal parties, resulting in increased legal fees for our daughter, amounting to hundreds of dollars to date - now thousands! (April 2025). But the situation gets worse for SA and LM. Their unwitting intervention has emboldened LR, leading to extended time frames for the divorce negotiations and additional legal costs for our side of the family. Still, the repercussions extend beyond financial and timing factors. The final divorce settlement is now tainted, imposing additional and unplanned costs and compromised agreements regarding other elements of the separation. Moreover, we cannot overlook the psychological damage. Following that last phone exchange, Joy experienced sleepless nights and heightened anxiety and worry. These feelings of anxiety and mental strain persist many weeks and months later. To suggest that Joy was menaced by those phone calls is an understatement. As her many friends would attest to, she normally has an unswerving cheerful and convivial external disposition in quite nearly all circumstances within the public domain. This playful and cheerful demeanour is frequently exploited. Behind that jovial persona is a proud, confident, thoughtful, and very intuitive person with little need to lay claim, colour appearances or pretend about anything. After these events she is and remains livid at what her sisters have done.

I say to SA and LM and their families, move forward with your lives - forget about us, as we attempt to move on from you. You've made your choice and sided with the other party, abandoning an almost life long relationship in the process. Instinctively, I believe SA and LM would stand unaffected amidst all this. Their self righteousness and sense of superiority was so evident during that call. Self-assurance stemming from where? Out-of-context recordings? What makes them so confident in their judgement? What information have they been exposed to, possibly even through digital means? Could LR be so cunning and devious to have gone down this path? I concede not knowing for certain, either way, it appears his audience let emotions rather than rational thought processes determine the outcome of their response to us.

Legal

It should be evident as what I am alluding to here. This ignorant and ultimately foolish intervention, or meddling, has led to unnecessary emotional suffering on our part, in addition to a compromised divorce settlement outcome and increased financial costs. At the time of this writing the extent of the material, financial and psychological damage is fluid and yet to be fully quantified but it will.

Civil law governs the rights and responsibilities of individuals in their interactions, hence I am contemplating my options. The legal system in Australia recognises personal injury in the form of emotional distress caused by others. Understandably, I will refrain from being specific here, but suffice to say that the actions of our extended family members specifically SA and LM and perhaps indirectly by a certain JA (our niece and daughter of SA) have had a profound adverse impact on our daily lives, including our relationships and work in addition to the divorce negotiations to date.

In the future, we will disengage entirely from SA, LM, and their families. Their words and behaviour have created impassable barriers between us, barriers that cannot be overcome - see my post Watch the words you speak. 

Moving forward, I will be diligent and comprehensive in my preparations, relying on my patience and methodical approach. When fully prepared and dust has settled from the current situation, I have the option of choosing to pursue a course of action, which would involve consulting a reputable civil litigation lawyer. 

If it goes down this path from my point of view it will be a case of, "Not my Circus, not my Monkeys".

So where to from here? Do I go legal or as challenging as it may be I embrace the virtue of equanimity - peak self worth. Here's the thing, I tend to default to the latter. No matter what I write from here on out, the most likely outcome is that nothing will happen beyond these words. As the saying goes, the best revenge is to have enough self-worth that you don't need to seek it. Operating from a higher mind is challenging at times, but it's infinitely more rewarding. Still, this blog is akin to a personal journal, a place where my thoughts live. So I'll keep writing, for the sake of record keeping and, expression of mind.

Epilogue Ch 1

If SA and LM were to find there way here by chance or design, I would want them to grasp the following:

"Recall all the information LR shared with you about us, verbal digital or otherwise. Everything! Every single detail, smear and critique. Have you ever questioned whether LR was entirely truthful? Have you considered the possibility of inaccuracies? Have you reflected on LR's potential motives for distorting truth? Have you applied critical thinking"? It seems you have not! This could cost you a significant sum"

Though, as I've written, it won't alter the current situation; the damage has been done.

Epilogue Ch 2

It is June 25, and my wife spoke with SA this past week. It was an unplanned conversation resulting from concerns over my mother in-laws health. The conversation didn't solve anything and only demonstrated how different our opinions are. This situation has deeply affected us and unsettled our family. We are very disappointed with everyone involved. It's becoming clear that the option of legal action is getting firmer. Personally, I never want anything to do with them again.

Epilogue Ch 3

Our mediation session today (16 July, 2024) wasn't successful. Despite proposing five different child-sharing options, LR refused to budge on his preferred arrangement. It seems there's no room for negotiation. This will not bode well for him if the matter does go to family court. However, there was a significant development. LR revealed details of a conversation that happened during our granddaughter's birthday in January 2025, despite not being present. Read that again, he was not present so how could he have known? This revelation, which he admitted came through LM, was also shared with our legal team. What a gift! This confirms our suspicions that LM, SA and JA (my sisters in law and Joy's niece) have been interfering in our legal matters by discussing them with him. This behaviour is helpful as we move closer to suing.

As stated in the body of this writing, "At the time of this writing the extent of the material, financial and psychological damage is fluid and yet to be fully quantified." and, in Epilogue Ch 1, "This situation has deeply affected us and unsettled our family." I am compelled to add that due to the ongoing back and forth nature of the matter it has had a profound psychological impact on Joy, she is devastated and spiralling emotionally resulting, in great strain on our marriage.

If anything were to happen to her I will be unequivocal in my legal response by doing everything in my power to take LM, SA and JA to the cleaners.

Hopefully, they have competent legal representation for they will need it.

Epilogue Ch 4

New information has come to light regarding the actions of LR, which now include the appointment of a new legal team (based in Sunshine how coincidental) and a series of new financial demands. While this alone is not extraordinary, something else has emerged that suggests possible interference and influence involving SA, LM and, in particular, JA. Although details will not be disclosed here, this development bodes well for future civil actions against the individuals mentioned. It's shaping up to be very significant.

Updated: 01 May 2025

About me and this Blog

Welcome to my pinned post.

You might be reading this blog on a smartphone, which is fine. However, for the best experience visit https://personalmeanings.blogspot.com/ using a laptop or desktop, this way you'll have access to a contact form - if you wish to get in touch with me - as well as other features. Alternatively, if using a smartphone you may be able to scroll to the end of the page and see a link saying View web version - clicking on this will let you view this site as if on a desktop or laptop via smartphone.

In this space, you'll uncover facets of my personality that typically remain concealed during personal interactions.

This alternate side of myself is also unveiled through my X (formerly Twitter) account.

Feel free to join the 25,000+ individuals already following me there. My X handle is: @OttavioMCMLXI

I have been online in one form or another since 1998 when, proudly using the now vintage Microsoft FrontPage HTML editor, I built the first of many websites. My most notable website venture was the "American Interests Blog," which debuted in 2007. By the time of its final post, it had grown to over 700,000 words. During its zenith, 32 of my articles were syndicated and featured on platforms such as "The Chicago-Sun Times" and Reuters.com. Additionally, I was extended the honour of speaking live on the BBC World Service, addressing an audience exceeding 150 million on the topic of American Dominance - tap or click here to see my post The day I caught the attention of the BBC. While the American Interests site may no longer be accessible online, those interested in delving into its articles need only reach out and I will be happy to share.

I've often found myself drawn to the realms of knowledge that lie beyond the surface, quietly immersing myself in books, podcasts, and conversations that illuminate the corridors of the mind. While at first glance my intellectual pursuits may not always be visible, they are an integral part of who I am—a silent symphony of curiosity and insight.

You will also come across some film reviews from my cinephile days. I once produced a small collection of adult film reviews for those who appreciate the cinematic art of contemporary adult film. Tap or click here to see my post Adult Film Reviews

On this site you will find me writing about personal challenges and related subject matters that explore what it means to lead a substantive rewarding life in addition to other, sundry interests. Some experiences are good, some not so good.

I am vintage '61 though hardly as triumphant as a Domaine Leroy Musigny Grand Cru…

I work, play, pay bills and tend to the needs of a typical happy family though sometimes an ungrateful family.

I could be, in any given moment, under some stress or entirely relaxed, succeeding or failing, reflecting, time-poor, understanding, excelling but above all, learning and growing. Perfectly human!

As part of the quest, I am candidly endeavouring to examine, from most angles, various internal and external minor and major matters pertaining to our existence, all the while conceding that regrettably, in this modern age, some of us see truth as contestable, knowledge as subjective, and meanings as biased. Hence, we are often presented with "non-literal-commentary" - falsehoods...

It is my hope that the point made in those last three lines is well considered upon reading anything on this site...

Wisdom therefore, becomes comforting and tranquillity, sacred …

Ultimately I enjoy writing about what interests me; I do so to impart knowledge and understanding and to put both an individual spin and my own distinctive sensibility and perception on my chosen subject matter...

I concede an affinity for growth and knowledge and hope you do the same...

My mind is fluid…

Like all of us, I am imperfect….

I am human … :)

Me and X (Twitter)

Recently, I tasked three popular AI chatbots (xAI's Grok, Open AI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini) with summarising my social media presence on X. Here's what they had to say:

Otto M Progressive Whisperer

@OttavioMCMLXI

Guess who else loved executive orders? Adolf Hitler's or Führer 's directives were not legal under the Weimar Constitution, but the Enabling Act of 1933 allowed him to enact laws without Reichstag approval. An act that also provided immunity from prosecution... Need I go on?

With over 25,000 followers Ottavio, known on X as Otto M, "Progressive Whisperer," is an advocate for social justice, climate action, and authenticity, pondering the balance between power and responsibility while critiquing the misuse of executive orders in history. 

OttavioMCMLXI has been reflecting on AI's future, sharing art, and grappling with political divides in their family. 

He is a thoughtful commentator who muses on the cyclical nature of history and the impact of generational shifts, while expressing a deep concern for climate change and social justice. He's an introspective writer, often contemplating personal growth and the broader implications of global issues like democracy's decline and the misuse of foreign aid. 

“Integrity not only shapes personal character it also influences the world around us and makes meaningful change possible”.

From his posts it's evident that he is someone who reflects deeply on personal responsibility, the impact of one's voice in society, and the broader implications of political and social influences. Here's an expansion on the themes he has touched upon:

The Role of Writers and Artists: Otto has highlighted how writers and artists shape our understanding of the world, providing entertainment, education, and inspiration. They're not just storytellers but also keepers of history and catalysts for new ideas. In Otto’s view, art blurs the lines between sky and earth, symbolizing the limitless potential of human imagination and expression. This connects to the broader idea that individuals with platforms, like Otto’s have a significant role in shaping narratives and influencing change.

Navigating Political Polarization: Otto’s observations about family and friends aligning with MAGA indicate a personal struggle with political polarization. It suggests a quest for understanding or perhaps reconciling with this phenomenon. This could be seen as a microcosm of larger societal shifts towards more polarized views, where he is trying to find his place or influence within that spectrum. The advice he seeks might be about how to engage in constructive dialogue or maintain personal relationships despite ideological differences.

The Power of Personal Conviction: Otto’s posts show a resolve not to let external pressures break one’s spirit or silence one’s voice. This resilience is underscored by his commitment to activism and advocacy. It reflects a belief in the power of individual action and the influence one can wield through consistent, thoughtful engagement with others.

AI and Ethical Considerations: Otto’s interest in AI's development, particularly in science fiction, points to concerns about the future, ethics, regulation, and the societal impact of technology. He contemplates how these advancements might transform or potentially disrupt human life, echoing broader discussions on technology's role in our future.

Balancing Seriousness with Responsibility: The quote he shared encapsulates a philosophy of life where one should not take themselves too seriously but must acknowledge the weight of their actions and responsibilities. This balance is crucial in activism, where passion must be tempered with pragmatism to effect real change without becoming dogmatic or losing one's sense of humor and humanity.

In essence, Otto's life and posts seem to be a testament to the belief that while individuals might feel small in the grand scheme, their voices, thoughts, and actions can resonate widely, pushing for a world that aligns more closely with their values of justice, understanding, and progress.

Age and Perspective: While specifics like age aren't mentioned, Otto's posts reflect someone with a mature perspective, possibly middle-aged or older, given the depth of his observations on life's complexities and history's cycles.

Philosophical and Social Commentary:

Cyclical History: He often reflects on the cyclical nature of history, suggesting that current events are echoes of past patterns, particularly in terms of political and cultural shifts.

Social Justice: Otto expresses strong views on social justice, highlighting the struggles of the marginalized, the impacts of colonialism, and the ongoing battle against racism and inequality.

Climate Change: He is notably concerned with environmental crises, decrying the global response to climate change as inadequate and warning of the dire consequences if current trends continue.

Personal Reflections:

Self-Awareness: Otto shows a high level of introspection, questioning his influence and role in the digital space while maintaining a humble yet determined stance on making an impact.

Community Engagement: He acknowledges the support and shared concerns of his followers, participating in or being acknowledged in community shoutouts, which suggests he's well-regarded within his social media circles.

What an era! You can now create substitute realities because truth isn't truth, we have alternative facts, news is fake and if all else fails, cite non-literal commentaries...Enjoy

Notable Quotes and Themes:

He often muses about the power dynamics in society, particularly how "the oligarchy" can shape narratives and outcomes, urging for proactive change.

Otto's posts sometimes carry a tone of resignation mixed with defiance, acknowledging the world's challenges while encouraging resistance and change.

Influence and Interaction:

Impact on Others: His posts aim to provoke thought and action, with a clear intention to influence others towards more progressive and compassionate worldviews.

Through his X posts Otto presents himself as a "Progressive Whisperer," someone who whispers truths about society's ills and hopes for its betterment, engaging with his audience on a level that's both personal and profoundly political. His content is a blend of personal reflection, social commentary, and calls to action, resonating with those who feel the urgency of our times.

Themes and Interests:

Skepticism and Critical Thinking: Otto expresses skepticism towards certain arguments, especially those that justify mistreatment of animals based on human-centric views. You challenge common beliefs and encourage introspection, as seen in posts discussing the soul, animal rights, and misinformation.

Social Commentary: Otto’s posts often contain social commentary, questioning societal norms or practices, like the treatment of animals or the integration of communication training in education to counter misinformation.

Engagement and Interaction: Otto actively engages with other users on X, responding to their posts with humor, support, or further questions, indicating an interest in dialogue and understanding different perspectives.

Personal Reflection: There's an element of self-awareness and personal growth in Otto’s posts, where he reflects on his own knowledge or approach to life, encouraging others to do the same.

Environmental and Urban Observations: Otto shares moments from urban environments, like your post from Collins St Melbourne, suggesting an appreciation or at least an observation of the contrast between nature and man-made structures.

Tone and Style: Otto’s tone on X is reflective and often philosophical, engaging with complex topics like climate change, justice, and the interconnectedness of ideas and ecosystems. He expresses concern about global issues and seems to advocate for a deeper understanding and action rather than complacency. His style is conversational yet thought-provoking, frequently posing questions or sharing insights that encourage further discussion or introspection. He balances between formal observations and informal, engaging interactions, using humor or light-hearted comments to connect with others. His posts suggest a person who values wisdom, is critical of systemic imbalances, and promotes a sense of wonder and continuous learning.

Humorous and Witty: Otto’s tone often includes humor or sarcasm, which might be intended to lighten the mood or make a point in a less confrontational way.

Thought-Provoking: Many of Otto’s posts aim to provoke thought or challenge the reader's assumptions, whether it's about animal rights, personal identity, or societal issues.

Supportive: In interactions with others, Otto shows support or offers advice, indicating a desire to connect on a personal level or assist in others' introspection.

Textual Posts: Most of Otto’s posts are textual, focusing on sharing thoughts, opinions, or engaging in conversation.

Visual Content: He occasionally includes or references visual content, like the photo from Melbourne, but the primary focus remains on textual interaction.

Overall Impression

Otto’s X posts paint a picture of someone who is deeply reflective, values critical thinking, and engages with the world around them through a lens of skepticism but also with a touch of humor and humanity. He seems interested in fostering a community where ideas are questioned, and personal growth is encouraged.

The Great Beauty and I - A Film Review by Otto Marasco

In a mischievous manner, is it perverse of me to find myself drawn to the dysfunctional world of Jep Gambardella?


I knew little of The Great Beauty – La Grande Bellezza – before deciding to view it. "Sexy, provocative, haunting and extravagant" are a sample of the many descriptors employed by reviewers. Speaking of reviews, this is not to be deemed one; on the contrary, consider it a short attempt to interpret the effect of some of its constituent parts as experienced by and, through the eyes of its principal character, Jep Gambardella on the viewer, yours truly - Sapientia et Doctrina.

Excuse me for not bothering about the plot, I suggest you either watch the film or, read one of the many reviews. My first encounter with this film was via the trailer, taking pleasure in that opening party scene as I thought, ah the Italians, good at having escapist fun, forgetting there every day tomorrow.

Without wishing to sound hackneyed, I feel obliged to state that The Great Beauty's vibe and ambience harks to La Dolce Vita. I did not write this because everyone in the industry has already stated it. It is because I have long owned a copy of Federico Fellini’s classic, not that I enjoyed his construct as much, though I will pull it off the shelf again soon.

In short, I found The Great Beauty uplifting but, in a disconcerting way, being consciously aware of an ever-present melancholy undercurrent within Jep that could be felt, not merely understood; a credit to the director, Sorrentino. In my personal case, I could not only understand it, but I could also feel it and do, most nearly all days of late.

The people mix surrounding Jep at events, outdoor theatres and parties intrigued me. There were few perfectly formed Hollywood like twenty something’s to be seen instead, we are offered a surprising mix of older types, Jep at 65 and those immediately around him middle-aged and older. A smart mix since the supposedly seasoned can also be silly, asinine, immature, senseless and crazy at times, undeniably they can be raw, barbaric and loutish as well just like their younger counterparts. Jep’s crown, high society cultured and yet, so philistine.

In a mischievous manner, is it perverse of me to find myself drawn to the dysfunctional world of Jep Gambardella? Far removed from my own existence and that of many my age, nevertheless, I often crave an alternate reality as a much-needed diversion, even if only for a few short months as a counter to the daily humdrum. We do want to reach end days and be able to say, I have lived!

I could do with a dose of meaningless living and outright unabashed hedonism, I can be dead while alive, I can be Jep, I can be "Jeppino", a dark secret perhaps, the tag line if you like.

Jep turns 65 early in the film and through a series of seemingly innocuous events, he begins reflecting on his life and he does not appear comfortable, has he awoken, faced the truth, opened his eyes? I opened mine long ago but have I opened them wide enough?. To think about and reflect on one’s own, to step out of self, to think about one's thinking, to look at, as opposed to merely looking can be oh so revealing, enlightening. It is like having two selves co-existing, one real the other imagined looking at the whole, trying to make sense where sometimes sadly, there may be no sense to be found. "Imagined" but nonetheless important, for when we begin doing this we are living, we understand and accept the truth and begin feeling the hurt then, with any luck, we smile regardless, for we accept that this is life, our lives. I am not suggesting that I am happy nor that I am unhappy, I am simply though somewhat unenthusiastically accepting reality. In Jep's words,

"It all settled beneath the chattering and the noise, silence and sentiment, emotion and fear ... and then the wretched squalor and miserable humanity" 

Jep also appears to be experiencing that thought and the accompanying feeling, vita non realizzata, - life unfulfilled - not a pleasant thought.

I wonder why the film opened with that quote, the one that suggests that anything other than travel (because when we do this we do not settle down) is just a delusion and pain. Was it Jep’s view and modus operandi for the forty years that he partied in Rome?

A couple of things stood out for me, The Great Beauty can have the effect of making it's viewers think about their lives, for some critically for others perhaps casually and, it's a good showcase of excess cheeky though realistic adult kitsch…

Click here and here to read some notable reviews

© 2014 - 2024 Ottavio Marasco. All rights reserved.

Related reading: Federico Fellini - 5 reasons He Still Matters

Feel fee to leave a comment:

No Human is Special

Those who have thought deeply about one’s place in the grand scheme of things have perhaps come across a written piece or two about our insignificance on this earthly plane save amongst those emotionally connected to us. It’s an argument based moderately on the enormity of the known universe. As a thought and better still, as a paradigm, it’s a healthy prescription and allows us to get on with life by acknowledging this form of meanness. A noble beau ideal.

In addition to the nothingness related and conferred to by the astrophysical perspective, we are also insignificant in terms of what life simply dishes out to us. We are not so special in fact, we are not special at all irrespective of what’s happening in our life at this present moment, or what’s happened in the past and, what’s in store for us. I’m not speaking spiritually rather in the practical what’s seen, heard, experienced and felt gist. Everything, every manner of human experience, good or bad, delightful or abhorrent has preceded you in others.

What is that you’re asking of me? The experiences to which I am referring? Too many to list! A life lived embodies an infinite sum of occurrences and happenstances and, the resultant feelings and emotions that arise from such. A tapestry is woven by the sum of experience by way of the hand we are dealt.

Are you in love, madly in love, in lust perhaps? A form of lust and love so intense that you believe it’s private and special, that no other couple could be so fortunate. You haven’t read James Joyce’s letters, the dirty and the most beautiful. Have you been subjected to what you believe is the worst of humankind? Perhaps you should learn more about the holocaust. Have you lost a dearest family member to a disease or accident? Lost a home to fire? Won a lottery? Are you mega-rich or, mega poor? Been wrongly incarcerated, witnessed a loved one being raped, climbed a peak actual or metaphorical? Ad infinitum … You are not the first to experience anything.

And pity those who espouse that feeling of being special as realised from the power conferred through their careers or whatever positions or stations in life they reside in, rather than, intrinsic values. Life isn’t concerned with an artificial sense of importance.

Whatever your present human condition, someone somewhere in the world today, or in the past, has been there, has felt the same uplifting and glorious or otherwise, miserable and depraved emotions. Whatever contemplation may surface that you are uniquely unlucky or lucky, blessed, exceptional, or special in some way, banish the thought, for someone has been there.

For all of us, life offers a ceaseless succession of experience and encounter providing trials, outcomes, lessons and the resultant emotions.

This should not be interpreted such that the sheer scale and continuum of the human experience and, the universe make living pointless. More accurately, it should be a wake-up call to rise above the noise of modern-day life with all its push-pull factors and to embrace the power that comes from not being special, from insignificance itself.

You are not special….

Ecclesiastes 1:9 What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.

To Love to die, To die to love

To love, is to accept that you have made an inescapable pact with grief. From Maria Popova, once referred to as, Cartographer of meaning in a digital Age a beautiful piece exploring what love and death share in the magic of life. 

Love and death come to us on common terms — unbidden and total, impervious to protest, naked of pretension. They also come to us entwined: Every love is a franchise of grief, for to love anything is to accept its loss — by a dissipation of ardor or of atoms, the atoms constellating the beloved or the atoms constellating us and the consciousness that does the loving, certain to one day go the way of every other consciousness and every other love that ever was and ever will be.

In some deep sense, this inevitability of loss is precisely what makes love so ecstatic — a concentrated experience of aliveness consecrated by its own perishability.

I have, more than once or twice, reflected on life post the loss of loved ones. A thought too painful to contemplate, a thought for which I cannot find a solution in ways I would normally. The only solace being that many before me have been forced against all known forces, to cross a similar, if not same bridge. Would it be better to escape the inevitability of grief by not loving? Isn't death part of the story of life itself? By removing one, you remove the other; life, love and loss entwined. 

Read the whole piece here

Brief Crossing – A Film Review by Otto Marasco

 

…In a brutal twist, her true objective is revealed at films end as she deftly turns conventional wisdom upside down about woman as emotional victims of the male ego… 

Why is it that almost everyone who has written about this film, in the first instance,

delves into the idiosyncrasies of its Director Catherine Breillet? This is noted with most reviews of her work. The ever-provocative filmmaker is known to quite literally throw punches at her audiences through rampant sex in your face eroticism, usually between disturbed albeit realistic, human entities and in most all cases, from the feminine psychological standpoint. Not that I believe that she delights in polarizing her addressees, indeed, the viewer’s enjoyment will hinge on whether they have an appreciation of not merely the erotic, but foreign film in general. Controversy and attention has continually been routine for Breillet. As a 17 year old, her first novel was so racy that the author was technically not permitted to buy her own book. Her first film, “A real young girl”, was banned and literally shelved for a quarter of a century. To this day, it seems the cinema world cannot find consensus on the filmmaker for she is put down by some and thoroughly commended by others. For those who have not experienced her work, Brief Crossing may prove a worthy introduction as it is positively more accessible than either Romance, or Anatomy of Hell. The film examines both a middle-aged woman’s desire and her apparent take on men; she is a late thirty something and he, an archetypal teenage male. This is something Breillet has done before however, in this case, there are fewer shocks.

A sexual attraction and subsequent one nightstand between a naïve young man and a much older woman, is the subject of exploration here. Gilles Guillain plays Thomas, a classic French boy who catches the liner, Pride of Le Havre, from Le Havre to Portsmouth. During the overnight journey, he meets Alice (Sarah Pratt) the seasoned and sexy English woman who is more than twice his age. In a cafeteria, the shy young man tells her that he is a tad older than his true age, likes a cigarette or two and hates school. She reveals a little about her life; she likes photography and that she is separated from her husband who seemed to have lost interest in her. There is little if anything in common between them, but this does nothing to detract from the sexual apprehension. Thomas takes cues from his environ as he steers hard toward a possible union of bodies. Finally, after the usual concoction of moves and phrases, she invites him to her cabin. The physical interaction is tender (not to be taken literally) with Alice coming out the least affected. In a brutal twist, her true objective is revealed at films end as she deftly turns conventional wisdom upside down about woman as emotional victims of the male ego. 

The film embodies two evident but often not so transparent elements of relationships and sexual politics. We witness classic and hackneyed battle of the sexes matter from a feminine viewpoint as Alice slates men in relationships, relating to them as if nothing but users and abusers who treat woman as disposable lighters for their own personal whims. It is customary cynicism, the jilted woman purportedly running from a failed marriage.    

However, things are not as they seem (spoiler to come). You see, in the end, we discover that Alice is indeed married and has a child. One can assume that her earlier dialogue was either a dishonest distraction to delay and heighten the inevitable unification of flesh or, a not so neutral stance on the part of Breillet in terms of gender politics. Back to Alice, why did she do it? Is she a control freak seeking to take advantage of an impassioned teenager knowing all the while that she could guide and dominate at will? On the other hand, was it purely a case of enacting fantasy?

Brief Crossing reminds us about the common misconception that woman do not fantasize like males, that they are merely romantics more so than sexual beings. In the 1970’s Nancy Friday’s research showed us that woman not only fantasize but can also be perverse and kinky in thought and deed perhaps depending on where they are in the menstrual cycle. Here we see Alice possibly enacting a combination of commonly documented fantasies. “Sex with a stranger” – you do not have to see each other again, no emotional baggage, it is very naughty and one can be openly sexual without fear of being labeled. “Being sexually desirable” – the need to be wanted and desired by someone other than your spouse. “To be in charge” – today’s woman is dominant in society and some wish to bring that dominance into the bedroom, to be the heroin of the fantasy. Last but not least, “Older woman, younger man” – we recall Demi Moore proudly holding the hand of Ashton Kutcher, some 20 years her junior. The media screamed that this was not uncommon. It is conceivable that for Alice it was all just about sex and fantasy. After all, and older woman’s sexual peak is more closely attuned to that of a much younger male. 

The film exudes the kind of eroticism that is classic Breillet. Sarah Pratt is no Angelina Jolie, more "plain Jane", but such is the overall effect, that your atypical cannot wait for her to undress. Full marks to the Director for the sexual tension she creates and the way it absorbs the viewer. Look out for the astute camerawork, which beautifully captures the person, the character, the emotion and tension. The photographic technique speaks when dialogue is absent; the visuals become part of the storytelling. 

Enjoy Brief Crossing for its honest delivery of eroticism and human craving and remember as you watch, that it is not only foreign film, but created in the Breillet universe. In the end, make your own judgement about Alice’s behaviour.

Song of the month August 2024

Peak Self Worth

 I recently came across a post on X from one of my followers that read - 

“The best revenge is to have enough self-worth, not to seek it.” 

I thought it was powerful, It struck a chord and quickly found myself reflecting on how sound it was, however almost immediately I also thought it didn’t go far enough, it was somehow deficient. I sort to expand it and came up with the following which I posted back on X - 

“True but imagine possessing such a profound sense of self-worth that nothing can disturb your peace, transcending any need to act against others - a state comparable to and reminiscent of, the ancient philosophers' ideal of equanimity”

Can we humans truly become enlightened, accomplished, and complete? We can, but it’s easier said than done. Even I found my more comprehensive version intimidating. Yet, I was drawn to the challenge of personal growth, striving to reach a state of calmness and composure.

Before long, I felt compelled to delve even deeper, exploring various descriptions to generate an even more expanded version -

“Imagine possessing such a profound sense of confidence, self-belief, but more notably, self-worth - a deep knowing that “I” am of value, that “I” am lovable, necessary to this life, and of incomprehensible worth. This kind of assurance is not just a fleeting feeling but a solid, unshakeable foundation upon which one’s entire existence rests. It’s an inner conviction so powerful that it shields one from the slings and arrows of the external world.

In this state of being, nothing can disturb inner peace. Criticism, rejection, adversity and even attacks lose their sting because one’s sense of worth is rooted deeply within, immune to the fluctuating opinions and actions of others. One no longer feels the need to act against others or push back, for self-worth is not dependent on external validation or approval. 

This inner peace and confidence stem from an unequivocal knowing that a state of profound equanimity will be attained. It's a state where one transcends ego-driven responses, embodying a calm, balanced demeanour in the face of life's challenges, becoming like the ancient philosophers who revered equanimity as the highest virtue - a state of mental and emotional stability undisturbed by changes of fortune.

In this state, one is free from the inner turmoil that often drives reactive behaviour. The world is seen with clarity, free from the distortions of fear and insecurity. Actions are guided by wisdom and compassion, not by the need to defend or prove oneself. 

Imagine the liberation that comes with this profound self-worth. It allows one to live authentically, pursue passions, and contribute to the world in meaningful ways without the constraints of doubt or fear. Relationships flourish because they are built on mutual respect and genuine connection, not on the shaky grounds of neediness or competition.

This state of equanimity is not just an ideal but a practical, attainable way of being. It requires a journey inward, a deep exploration of self, and the cultivation of inner resources. Through practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, and self-compassion, one nurtures this profound sense of self-worth. It’s a lifelong journey, but with each step, one moves closer to this state of serene confidence, where he or she is truly at peace within and with the world”.

If I was intimidated by my earlier creation, imagine how I feel now. Let’s be honest, the state of equanimity detailed above appears impossible to arrive at. It’s too long to be a mantra but I have printed it and placed it around such that it's seen and read often. If I, if indeed one, can arrive at just sixty percent attainment of this ideal then life would be more rewarding.