Culture Thursday: November 2021
This is the first installment of Culture Thursday, a monthly series where Claritas contributors share recommendations for the podcasts, books, music, art, and other pieces of culture they have been enjoying lately.
Zachary Lee, former Editor in Chief
Edgar Wright's latest film is a departure from his previous filmography in that it is his first true horror film. His other staples remain such as an absolutely electrifying soundtrack and very British humor but within the horror genre, he finds grounding to deliver what I think to be his most socially conscious film yet. He turns his wit into something incisive in asking about the dangerous attachment people have to nostalgia (specifically how affections for it tend to gloss over a particular era's issues) and how the violence we commit to others brutally shapes us–while also asking what justice there is for those who are truly disenfranchised by powerful systems.
Chloe Cropper, Managing Editor
When I got my iPod Nano in seventh grade, I was over the moon. Appreciating the cinematic excellence of the Curious George motion picture this was, naturally, the first song I downloaded. Life changes, but “Upside Down” by Jack Johnson has been there for me through it all and will forever conjure up that intangible cocktail of nostalgia, melancholy, and introspection that only really special music can.
Amy Crouch, Production Manager
Piranesi is a short and spellbinding novel plunging us into a mysterious and lovely – but also perilous — world. As the plot unspools, we are transfixed by the beautiful secrets of the story but also brought to ponder questions of innocence, sin, and forgiveness.
Jack Kubinec, Blog Editor
In the opening track to The Joy Tape, Curtis Roach raps, “I need real joy, long-lasting, not fleeting happiness.” The 21 year old rose to TikTok fame last year for his quarantine-inspired song, “Bored in the House.” On this new project, Roach shows off his lyrical chops, nimbly spitting over lo-fi and jazz rap beats. The Joy Tape has reminded me that real joy is waiting to be found beyond my circumstances if I choose to lift my eyes to the heavens and take hold of it.
Seth Bollinger, Editor in Chief
John Mark Comer, a pastor from Portland, Oregon, is one of my favorite contemporary Christian writers. He publishes a 6-part podcast to coincide with the theme of each of his books. His most recent book, Live No Lies, focuses on the lies of our culture through the lens of the ancient monastic tradition, showcasing how the enemies of the soul are the flesh, the world, and the devil. With a smart and extremely humble posture, this podcast interviews different cultural and spiritual leaders about topics such as racial reconciliation, contemplative prayer, and how the church can be a force for formation. The podcast is a great listen and very thought provoking. I highly recommend!
Estelle Hooper, Design Manager
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. is an anime featuring Saiki, a high schooler born with incredible psychic powers whose life goal is to live like he does not have any. As someone who begrudgingly helps others, Saiki is a funny example of what it's like for a human to be God. Told in 5 minute shorts, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. is perfect for a quick study break.