Free Project: Scriptwriting

In this post I will be discussing the script I have written for the podcast I will be conducting.

Firstly, I wrote the introduction part of the script, which introduces the topic of anime and how it contains food scenes that not only function as aesthetic scenes. It also explains how it can affect story structure and how it adds to audience enjoyment.

To start off, I introduce its cultural representation for Japan through Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san as the main character in the mentioned anime presents her obsession with ramen which she also presents relatability for the audience in Japanese food culture

To showcase the diversity in Japanese cuisine, I explore Shokugeki no Soma, which depicts the regional cuisine to not only introduce viewers to new flavors and dishes but to also emphasise the unique characteristics of each region's culture and history.

Once again, the fourth paragraph talks about Shokugeki no Soma in how anime food scenes add to the development of the story and characters. It shows the main protagonist's development particularly in his culinary skills as he overcomes personal challenges, which led to his growth as a chef and as a person.

On the fifth paragraph, I also talked about how anime food scenes contributes to audience enjoyment by providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. The example I give is in the sixth paragraph which is Spirited Away. 

For the 6th paragraph, I discussed a scene in Spirited Away in which Chihiro eats a warm bowl of soup that creates a sense of relatability towards the audience about comfort. The following two paragraphs after this focus on the visual effect aspect of each anime food scene, specifically from Toriko and Spirited Away.

The second to the last paragraph still continues to talk about visual effects in anime food scenes. However, it focuses on Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san for the matter. Lastly, I wrote my conclusion about the topic, detailing the anime food scenes are significant in pushing the story, the characters, and the art itself.

  

Free Project : Research on Shun Saeki and his artwork on "Food wars"

In this post I will be discussing Shun Saeki and some scenes he has created.

Shun Saeki

Shun Saeki is a Japanese manga artist and illustrator, best known for his work on the popular food-themed manga series "Food Wars!" ("Shokugeki no Soma" in Japanese). In this manga, Saeki's artistic skill shines through in his ability to bring food to life on the page, often causing readers to salivate over the delicious dishes he depicts. His artwork captures the textures, colors, and details of food in an almost photorealistic manner, which has played a significant role in the success of the series.

One of the unique features of "Food Wars!" is the use of "foodgasms," in which characters experience intense sensory pleasure from eating a particularly delicious dish. Saeki's art plays a crucial role in the depiction of these scenes, as the imagery he creates is designed to evoke a visceral response in the reader. For example, in one scene, a character tastes a dish made with salmon and roe, and the artwork depicts the flavors exploding in his mouth in a vivid and almost psychedelic manner. This emphasis on the sensory experience of food is a defining characteristic of Saeki's work in "Food Wars!"

Saeki's style is also heavily influenced by his background in graffiti and street art. This is evident in his use of bold, vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which help to convey a sense of energy and movement. In addition to his work on "Food Wars!," Saeki has created artwork for a variety of other projects, including album covers and fashion collaborations. Fujimoto (2020) notes that the artist's background in street art is evident in his use of bold colors and dynamic compositions (p. 92). In each of these projects, his distinctive style is immediately recognizable, making him a highly sought-after artist in the industry. According to Yamamoto (2018), Saeki's artwork in "Food Wars!" is so realistic that it "makes your mouth water just looking at it" (p. 47). In his analysis of Saeki's work, 

A study by Tanaka (2017) found that the use of "foodgasms" in "Food Wars!" has been a significant factor in the series' popularity, and that Saeki's art plays a crucial role in depicting these scenes (p. 63).

Fujimoto, K. (2020). Shun Saeki: The Graffiti Artist Who Draws Sensational Food Manga. GQ Japan. https://www.gqjapan.jp/culture/article/2020/02/27/shun-saeki-food-wars-manga

Tanaka, S. (2017). Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma: The Role of Culinary Arts in a Popular Japanese Manga. Food, Culture & Society, 20(1), 57-73. https://doi.org/10.1080/15528014.2016.1257603

Yamamoto, Y. (2018). The Power of Food in Japanese Manga: Analyzing Food Wars! as a Window into Japanese Culture. The Journal of Popular Culture, 51(1), 43-56. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpcu.12639

Free Project : Hayao Miyazaki Research on his films and food scenes within

In this post I will be discussing Hayao Miyazaki and some scenes he has created.

Hayao Miyazaki

Hayao Miyazaki is a renowned Japanese filmmaker, screenwriter, and animator who has created some of the most memorable and beloved animated films of all time. One of the elements that makes his films so captivating is the way he incorporates food into his stories. From ramen and rice balls to roasted meat and fresh vegetables, food plays a crucial role in the characters' lives and the worlds they inhabit. 

In Spirited Away, food is used as a tool to demonstrate the power and control of the spirit world. When the young protagonist Chihiro stumbles upon a grand feast prepared for the spirits, she is warned not to eat anything or she will never be able to return to the human world. The food is presented as irresistible, with vibrant colors and mouth-watering aromas, yet it is also dangerous and forbidden. Through this portrayal, Miyazaki is able to highlight the allure and temptation of the unknown, while also emphasizing the importance of self-control and restraint. In contrast, in My Neighbor Totoro, food is used to symbolize the comforts and pleasures of everyday life. The film is set in the Japanese countryside, and much of the story revolves around the everyday activities of a young family who move to the area. Scenes of the characters cooking and eating meals together are used to convey a sense of warmth, comfort, and community. For example, when the girls' father returns home after a long day at work, he is greeted with a homemade bento box full of his favorite foods. The care and attention put into the meal serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the joys of everyday life.

Miyazaki's attention to detail in the depiction of food is also notable. In both Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, the food is presented in a way that is both realistic and magical. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the dishes are animated with such care that they become characters in their own right. The food in Miyazaki's films is not just sustenance, but a source of wonder and delight.

In conclusion, food plays a significant role in Hayao Miyazaki's films, serving as a tool for exploring complex themes and emotions. From the dangers of temptation to the pleasures of everyday life, food is used to convey meaning and to enhance the viewer's experience. Through his attention to detail and careful animation, Miyazaki elevates food from a simple prop to an integral part of the storytelling process.

References:

Baxi, D. (2019). Food and Culture in Hayao Miyazaki’s Films. The Culinary Anthropologist, 7(2), 13-22. doi: 10.11648/j.ca.20190202.11

Ezra, E. (2011). Hayao Miyazaki: The Taste of Anime. Film Quarterly, 64(3), 32-39. doi: 10.1525/fq.2011.64.3.32

Galloway, P. (2014). The Enchantment of Miyazaki's Animism: Aesthetic Strategies in Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle. Animation: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 9(1), 29-44. doi: 10.1177/1746847713518169

Free Project: Podcast Structure Research

In this post I will be discussing my research on Podcast Structure.

Podcasts have become a popular form of media in recent years, with a wide range of topics and styles available for listeners to choose from. One important aspect of creating a successful podcast is structuring it in a way that engages listeners and keeps them coming back for more. 

Firstly, it is important for podcasts to have a clear and concise structure. This includes an introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as a consistent format for each episode. The introduction should hook the listener and provide a brief overview of what the episode will cover. The body should be well-organized and provide in-depth analysis or discussion of the topic. The conclusion should wrap up the episode and provide a sense of closure. Another important aspect of podcast structure is the use of sound effects, music, and other audio elements. These can be used to add variety and interest to the episode, as well as to emphasize key points or transitions. For example, a sound effect can be used to signal a change in topic or to emphasize a particularly important point. Similarly, music can be used to create a specific mood or to provide a transition between different segments of the episode.

In addition to structure and audio elements, the length of a podcast episode is also an important consideration. Many successful podcasts have episodes that range from 20 minutes to an hour, although some may be shorter or longer depending on the topic and audience. It is important for podcasters to strike a balance between providing enough content to keep listeners engaged and not overwhelming them with too much information. Another important aspect of podcast structure is the use of segments. Segments can be used to break up longer episodes into smaller, more manageable sections, or to provide different perspectives on the same topic. For example, a podcast about current events might have a news segment, a discussion segment, and an interview segment. This helps to keep the episode organized and focused, and also allows listeners to easily navigate to the sections that interest them most.

Finally, it is important for podcasters to be aware of their audience and tailor their structure to meet their needs. For example, a podcast aimed at a younger audience might use more casual language and include more humour, while a podcast aimed at a professional audience might use more technical language and be more focused on industry news and trends. Understanding the needs and interests of the target audience is key to creating a successful podcast. The structure of a podcast is a key factor in its success. A clear and concise structure, the use of sound effects and other audio elements, the appropriate length of episodes, the use of segments, and an understanding of the target audience are all important considerations for podcasters. By paying close attention to these elements and continually refining their structure, podcasters can create engaging and successful podcasts that keep listeners coming back for more.

References:

Bell, S. (2015). How to structure a podcast episode. Retrieved from https://www.thepodcasthost.com/planning/how-to-structure-a-podcast-episode/

Darnell, D. (2018). How to structure your podcast to keep listeners coming back. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2018/02/07/how-to-structure-your-podcast-to-keep-listeners-coming-back/?sh=3f6d8d66282e

Killermann, S. (2019). The definitive guide to podcast structure. Retrieved from https://www.listennotes.com/podcast-academy/podcast-structure/

Free Project : Theme Research

In this post I will be discussing my research about Food scenes by anime studios.

Anime has become one of the most prominent cultural exports of Japan in recent years and one of the most striking aspects of anime is the way it depicts food. Many anime shows and films showcase beautifully illustrated dishes, and in some cases, the food scenes play a significant role in the plot. This essay will examine the significance of food scenes in anime and how they contribute to the storytelling.

Food scenes in anime not only serve as eye-catching visuals, but they also serve as a means of establishing the culture and environment of the story. In anime, food is often used as a way to showcase regional cuisine or the seasonality of ingredients. For example, in the anime "Shokugeki no Soma," the main character, Soma Yukihira, enrolls in a prestigious culinary school where he learns to master a range of traditional and modern Japanese dishes. Throughout the series, the show highlights the ingredients and techniques used in different regions of Japan, from Hokkaido's seafood to Kyushu's ramen. By doing so, the show educates the viewers on Japanese cuisine and culture.

In addition to the cultural aspect, food scenes can also help to establish character development and relationships. For instance, in the anime film "Spirited Away," food is used as a way to convey the strange and magical nature of the spirit world. The main character, Chihiro, is tasked with working at a bathhouse for spirits, where she must cook and serve the various creatures that come to the bathhouse. As she prepares and serves the food, she gains the trust and respect of the other characters, and this helps her in her quest to save her parents and escape from the spirit world.

Moreover, food scenes can also help to create a sense of nostalgia and comfort for the viewers. In the anime "Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san," the show revolves around a high school girl, Koizumi, who is obsessed with ramen. The show not only showcases different types of ramen but also explores the emotional connection that people have with their favorite foods. The scenes where Koizumi slurps down a hot bowl of ramen or debates the merits of different soup bases can make the viewers feel warm and cozy, and transport them back to a time when they had a similar experience.

While the use of food scenes in anime is not unique to the genre, it is interesting to see how the anime industry uses this technique to create a sense of realism and relatability for the viewers. The illustrations of food in anime are often so detailed and vibrant that they can evoke an emotional response from the viewers. By combining the visual aspect with cultural significance and character development, food scenes in anime can contribute significantly to the overall storytelling.

Food scenes in anime serve as more than just eye-candy. They contribute significantly to the plot, characterization, and cultural significance of the story. By showcasing regional cuisine, establishing character relationships, and creating a sense of nostalgia, anime studios can transport viewers to another world and evoke an emotional response. Anime continues to be a significant cultural export of Japan, and the use of food scenes is just one of the many ways that it captivates audiences worldwide.

References:

Hori, K., & Ishida, H. (2019). Shokugeki no Soma and Food-Culture Diplomacy. The Journal of Popular Culture, 52(4), 962-982.

Napier, S. J. (2016). Anime and memory: aesthetic, cultural and thematic perspectives. Palgrave Macmillan.

Free Project : Technical Research

Creating a high-quality podcast requires the use of certain technical equipment. In this blogpost, I will be discussing some of the technical equipment required for podcasting.

Microphones Microphones are one of the most essential pieces of equipment for podcasting. A high-quality microphone can make a huge difference in the quality of your podcast. There are two types of microphones used for podcasting: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are good for recording in noisy environments and are more durable, while condenser microphones are more sensitive and provide better sound quality. Some popular microphone brands for podcasting include Shure, Audio-Technica, and Rode.

• Audio Interfaces
  
  
  Audio interfaces are devices that connect your microphone to your computer. They allow you to adjust the sound levels and provide better quality sound. Some popular audio interfaces for podcasting include Focusrite Scarlett, PreSonus AudioBox, and Behringer U-Phoria.

• Headphones
  
  
  Headphones are essential for podcasting as they allow you to hear your own voice and the voices of your guests. They also help you monitor the sound levels and prevent feedback. Some popular headphone brands for podcasting include Sony, Audio-Technica, and Sennheiser.

• Pop Filters
  
  
  Pop filters are accessories that attach to your microphone to reduce popping sounds caused by plosives such as "p" and "b" sounds. They are a cost-effective way to improve the quality of your audio. Some popular pop filter brands include Nady and Auphonix.

• Recording Software
  
  
  Recording software is used to record and edit your podcast. There are many software options available, both free and paid. Some popular recording software for podcasting include Audacity, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.

From what I've searched creating a successful podcast requires the use of certain technical equipment. Microphones, audio interfaces, headphones, pop filters, and recording software are essential for producing high-quality podcasts. By investing in good equipment, you can improve the quality of your podcast and attract more listeners.

With this information the items below provided the closest characteristics to what I have described above will be the ones I will borrow from the School's technical equipment building "AV Loans" :

• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface
•  AKG C414 XLS Microphone
• AKG K240 Headphones
• XLR Cable - 1m Long - Red
• Tabletop Mic Stand - Gooseneck with Clamp

References :

"The 6 Best Microphones for Podcasting in 2021" by Joey Held (https://www.musicianonamission.com/best-microphones-for-podcasting/)

"The Best Audio Interfaces for Home Recording" by John Twells (https://www.factmag.com/2019/05/29/best-audio-interfaces-home-recording/)

"The 10 Best Podcasting Headphones of 2021" by Robert Silva (https://www.lifewire.com/best-podcasting-headphones-4163614)

"10 Best Pop Filters for Podcasting & Streaming in 2021" by Max Parker (https://www.techradar.com/best/best-pop-filters-for-podcasting-and-streaming)

"Top 10 Best Free Podcast Recording Software for Windows/Mac" by Adam Gorden (https://filmora.wondershare.com/audio-editing-tips/free-podcast-recording-software.html)

Free Project : Generating Ideas and SMART objectives

 In this post I will be discussing my idea generation alongside the SMART objectives for the free project.

To start this off, I would like to tell you my interest in animation and the way they add effects to give off more realism to what they want to present; this is especially apparent to animation studious who put a lot of effort into adding the smallest of details to their work. This is one of the reasons I had started loving the way of animation and the visual effects they have. Below are animation studios that have inspired me from their films/shows :

• MAPPA studios
• Studio Ghibli
• Kyoto Animation studio
• Studio David production
• CoMix Wave Films
• J.C. Staff

One of the common denominators these studios I appreciate is their attention to detail especially to food and food scenes, for example, the egg dish entrance exam for one of the Shows of J.C. Staff titled "Food Wars" which presents a balance between realism and exaggeration to give a great text for audiences to consume(this scene had made me feel famished even if I had eaten beforehand due to its great animation).

Another example we could take a look at are the Films of Studio Ghibli such as "Howl's Moving Castle" and its breakfast scene which makes a simple eggs and bacon breakfast seem like a banquet fit for a king.

With these ideas in mind, I will have to take into account how to present them. As I read the brief, there are 3 I could consider that may help me convey what I want to present.

• A magazine Article of no more than 1500 words
• A photography project utilizing mobile phone photography with 10 final images
• A Podcast of no more than 5 minutes long

Thinking about the options and considering which may best fit my topic, I have chosen to do a podcast that will last no more than 5 minutes long which would focus on appreciation for certain scenes and studios that contain great detail to food.

Here I will present some scenes that I will be discussing within the podcast.

CoMix Wave Films - 언어의 정원 음식 모음 / The Garden of Words animation food collection

Studio Ghibli -  Gather Around For Breakfast!

J.C. staff- Yukihira Soma- Transfer's in Totsuki cooks for Erina for the 1st time

For the S.M.A.R.T objectives I will be using this photo below for reference.

Source : Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

• The project I have planned will be a five minute podcast pertaining to the animation of food scenes(focusing on anime aka Japanese animated shows) where it will would focus on what details make it look realistic, why the realism adds flavour to the already rich plotline, how even if the scene is not that significant to progressing the story it seems to still be important in its position, and how some animation studios neglect these scenes and how some may even be the best at creating them.
• I will firstly create a structure to make sure the podcast goes smoothly and create more research to help fulfill my project's objective. All of these will be recorded and evaluated by me via blog posts, having two research posts after this, process posts, an uploading to my website post and a reflection for my Final Free project Post.
• Though making a podcast looks tedious and I am very new to the idea of making one, I am positive that talking about the food scenes within that manner is easily achievable and not much of a problem.
• This project is relevant for my progression since this will be discussing animation and the details they use for the visual effects in order to create "perfection" in a short manner of time. This can also help in giving me a chance to think more deeply of why people or studios do this and wh it can affect the storyline, though not significantly.
• This project will be achieved in two weeks. This is easily accomplished by finalizing my research before the end of this week alongside finishing the structure , after which the editing should be accomplished by next week and before the end of next week I will finalize the whole project. As long as I put enough time into the project, this time I have set would be achieved.

Moving on, the plan that I have made is:

• Theme Research and Structure Creation = 24 Feb
• Technical Research = 25 Feb
• Scene and Studio Research = 27 Feb
• Writing Script = March 1
• Recording = March 2-5
• Editing =  March 6-9 
• Finalising and Uploading to Website = 10 March
• Reflection = 12 March 

When theme research is in question, I will be researching about Anime Food scenes such as the ones I have listed above alongside researching about podcast structure in order for my project quality to be better. Technical research will simply be about searching for information on equipment for the podcast. Studio Research, I will be focusing on :

• MAPPA studios
• Studio Ghibli
• Kyoto Animation studio
• Studio David production
• CoMix Wave Films
• J.C. Staff

Lastly, the script for the podcast would be accomplished by then, I have equipment rented from AV Loans, the podcast structure would be finalized and I would have a recording to edit and finish. 

Creative Writing : Chapbook Reflection

 In this post I will be writing my reflection on my chapbook reflection.

The creation of this chapbook made me realize how much I have seen and experienced, it let me experience them once more in what I consider my shallow mind; I got to see the faces I hated to love once more and I get to accept that some of them will never come back to my life. It honed my understanding as an author of how their own writing can affect their emotional state and how avoiding being explicit tells a greater story than overthinking the audience's interpretation. 

I also learned how to accomplish creating Tanka's in a manner that is swiftly but still has the quality and meaning you should find in a poem made with heart and not only with an objective to create one which in turn, also made me learn more about Japanese culture and Matsuo Basho's writing style and how it formed a generation of poets.

This chapbook was fun to create and was also a learning experience I would never forget. A thorned rose I will keep holding onto.

Creative Writing: Chapbook Creation and Uploading to Website

In this post, I will be discussing my creation of the chapbook for creative writing project.

Before this, I created a cover my chapbook using Photoshop. The background color is beige, the title "a withering flower garden". The graphics I use here is the fence presenting transparency as its filled with a filtered picture of leaves that resemble hedges of a garden. I also use flowers and petals falling from it, presenting a withering flower that is akin to a life of a human.

After creating the cover, I went to Pixlr and went to create new image. I then went to print and selected an A4 format, creating two files, one for the text, one for the image.

Secondly, on the poems page itself I simply put the flower name as the title and the graphic of the same flower on the cover. Then, I added five lines of poem, which is my "tankas."

Next, on the other file, I put over the photos of the flowers I made a poem from, which will go alongside the flower that it represents. These photos are taken from Unsplash and I made sure to add the artists' surname and year of publication as reference.

I conducted this process of creating the poem and photo pages for all the flowers and then exported them into a png in a folder. After that I went to abcd pdf.com to convert the pngs into a pdf.

Then, I went to Yumpu and uploaded the pdf file there. I changed the title and added the description to the fit the vision I wanted to present to the audience. Then, I copied the Embed link/HTML link.

Moving to the website's project page to create a new project for the chapbook, I added all of the pages of said chapbook to a project collection and arranged them since they were scattered in the upload. After which, I added to the collection part of my gallery.

To finalize, I did a final check up on the chapbook and its pages to fix any problems that it may have in terms of arrangement and quality. It presents the book the same way as the embed, only slightly different. However, I am satisfied with its outcome and have accomplished the upload to the website.

Here the chapbook is posted.

Alongside the HTML link of Yumpu.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 7

   In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Amaranthus - Hope




Flowers abundant

As their smell fills my small room

Yet in this seductive place

I choose to wander farther

Away from bleeding flowers




Lotus Flower - Suffering's end




For long it has gone

Yet in wider eyes, too short

Though one is at their wit’s end

It is yet to be one’s descend,

A lotus flower lies bare.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 6

   In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Moonflower - An angel’s tears


The wails we hear now

The origin of unknown

A sound that yields us to bow

The innocence to sorrow

My child I am here with you



Jasmine - A Present


Do not fret and worry

This is but temporary

As the past is history

The next is a mystery,

And here now, a meek jasmine


Forget me not - Remembrance


Please leave your sadness

Though I have to say goodbye

Each time you hear a sad sigh

Oh my dear, try not to cry

You will soon forget me, not.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 5

  In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Hibiscus - Her


A year of longing,

Hibiscus in the air,

Beauty beyond our thinking,

A flower, oh so stunning,

Sought out within a million.



Buttercup - Youth


So bright, So nimble

A time one must reminisce

Never let this glass shatter,

Wait, does this even matter?

How come time flies so swiftly




Lilacs - Peace



Silence ever loud,

Yet is cut by Cicadas,

Where have I heard this slow song?

I have missed this warmth I feel,

A rest for my journey’s test.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 4

 In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Peonies - Riches




Majestic peonies,

Petals just like fairy wings,

So fantastical,

Beauty that takes the breath away,

Cannot be attained in sway.





Dandelion - Hope




A small humble gift,

The dandelion in bloom,

Whispers onto wind,

It dances, some would take flight,

It looks ahead seeking more.




Chrysanthemum - Severed




Chrysanthemum petals,

Fall in a peaceful sorrow,

Regret fills the void,

The memories burrow deep,

Nevertheless, I still keep.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 3

 In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Dark Crimson rose - Guilt




Crimson rose in bloom,

Elegant and bold in hue,

A passion so strong,

It’s flames hot to the touch,

A pain of the heart.




Iris - Wisdom




Iris in the sun,

Petals vibrant and royal,

Nature’s regal grace,

Majestic, noble and strong,

A beauty none can compare.




Wildflowers - We




Wildflowers in bloom,

A riot of colors bright,

A vast tapestry,

Each petal a brushstroke rare,

Each petal, only some heard.

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 2

In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Daffodils - Improvement

Yellow daffodils,

Spring’s promise of new hope,
A dance in the breeze,

Brightening up a dreary day,

A symbol of joy and growth.

Lavender - Desolation

Purple Lavender,

Scented with a calming peace,

Nature’s gentle breeze,
A balm for the soul’s unrest,
Soft whispers of sweet release.

Lilies - Innocence

Delicate and pure,

Lilies bloom in sweet serenity,

Here a humble grace,

Petals soft as morning dew, I see a childhood frolic 

Creative Writing : Chapbook Draft 1

 In this post I will be presenting drafts/final works for my chapbook for this Creative writing task.

Tulips - Infatuation


Fields of tulips sway,

Colors of the rainbow bright,

Springs Joyful Parade,

Graceful stems and petals tall,

Nature’s beauty on display.




Sunflowers - Friendship


Dancing in the wind,

Golden Sunflowers bow low,

Summer’s radiant light,

Blossoms large and full of life,

A sight to behold and love.




Cherry Blossoms - Childhood


Pink Cherry blossoms,

Fragile, delicate petals,

Whispers of new life,

A fleeting yet peaceful sight,

A moment of pure delight.

Creative Writing: Target Market

In this post I will be discussing the target market research about my Chapbook.

A book of Japanese Tanka poems about specific flowers and their meanings has the potential to appeal to a niche market of readers who are interested in Japanese culture, language, and aesthetics, as well as those who appreciate poetry, botany, and symbolism. However, finding a large and diverse audience for such a book may be challenging, and requires a careful analysis of the interests and passions of potential readers.

Demographic characteristics, cultural affinity, and botanical interests are key factors to consider when identifying the target market for this book. Understanding the symbolism and meaning associated with each flower can also provide valuable insights into what motivates readers to seek out books about specific flowers and their meanings.

Market research, including surveys, focus groups, and interviews, can provide valuable insights into the interests and preferences of potential readers. For example, a survey could ask about readers' interest in Japanese culture, poetry, and botany, as well as their familiarity with Tanka poetry and the symbolism of specific flowers. Focus groups and interviews can delve deeper into readers' motivations and preferences, providing a more nuanced understanding of what readers are looking for in terms of content, style, and tone.

Scholarly sources can also provide valuable insights into the symbolism and cultural significance of flowers. For example, Ikegami and Takano's (2009) study published in the journal HortScience explored the meaning and usage of flowers in Japanese culture. Similarly, Trites' (2006) article in the Journal of Popular Culture examined the symbolism of flowers in literature and art. By drawing on such sources, the book can provide readers with a deeper understanding of the cultural and symbolic significance of specific flowers.

Examples of Audiences for my Chapbook would be:

Fans of Japanese Culture: Readers who are interested in Japanese culture and aesthetics, such as the tea ceremony, ikebana, and haiku, may be drawn to a book of Japanese Tanka poems about specific flowers and their meanings.

Poetry Enthusiasts: Readers who appreciate poetry and its ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through concise language may find the brevity and elegance of Tanka poetry appealing.

Botany Lovers: Readers who enjoy learning about the natural world and the symbolism of different plants may be interested in a book that explores the meanings of specific flowers and their cultural significance.

Art and Design Enthusiasts: Readers who appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese art and design, such as ukiyo-e prints and textiles, may be drawn to a book that features illustrations and designs inspired by Japanese flower motifs.

Spiritual Seekers: Readers who are interested in exploring the spiritual and mystical dimensions of life may be drawn to a book that explores the symbolism and meaning of different flowers in Japanese culture and spirituality.

Language Learners: Readers who are studying Japanese language and culture may be interested in a book that features both Japanese and English translations of Tanka poems, providing an opportunity to learn about the language and culture in a creative and engaging way.

These are just a few examples of potential target audiences for a book of Japanese Tanka poems about specific flowers and their meanings. By identifying and understanding the interests and motivations of these different groups, the book can be tailored to appeal to a wide range of readers.

Ultimately, a book of Japanese Tanka poems about specific flowers and their meanings can create a sense of connection and meaning for readers who share a passion for Japanese culture, language, and aesthetics, as well as poetry, botany, and symbolism. By carefully considering the interests and passions of potential readers, conducting market research, and drawing on scholarly sources, the book can be crafted to resonate with its target audience.

Reference List:

Ikegami, K., & Takano, T. (2009). The culture of flowers in Japan: Its origins and characteristics. HortScience, 44(1), 8-11.

Trites, R. S. (2006). The Symbolism of Flowers in Literature and Art. Journal of Popular Culture, 39(4), 649-671.

Creating Writing : Analysis of Matshuo Basho's writing

In this post I will be discussing my research about Matsuo Basho.

Matsuo Basho is a renowned Japanese poet of the Edo period, famous for his haiku and travel writing. His unique writing style is often seen as a source of inspiration for modern writers and poets.

Basho's writing style can be described as minimalist and concise, which is evident in his haiku. His poetry often reflects nature and its transient beauty, capturing the essence of a moment in just a few words. In his travel writing, Basho employed a technique called "sketching from life," which involved recording his observations and experiences in the form of prose. This style of writing emphasizes the importance of personal experiences and is often seen as a precursor to modern creative nonfiction.

Basho's approach to writing is one of simplicity and directness, with a focus on using everyday language and common experiences to connect with readers. He was known for his rejection of formalized poetry structures and the use of colloquial language. His writing often highlights the beauty in the mundane and the fleeting moments in life, such as the sound of rain on a roof or the first frost of winter.

Basho's impact on literature extends beyond Japan, with his works translated and admired by writers around the world. His minimalist approach to writing has influenced modern poets and writers, inspiring them to focus on the essence of their work and use precise language to convey meaning.

One of the things that I find most inspiring about Basho's writing is his ability to find beauty in even the most mundane things. He had a knack for taking ordinary, everyday experiences and transforming them into something extraordinary through his use of language. For example, in his haiku "The old pond", Basho writes:

An old silent pond 

A frog jumps into the pond

— Splash! Silence again.

These simple lines not only paint a picture of a peaceful pond but also capture the suddenness of the frog's movement and the resulting disruption of the calmness. It's this ability to create something beautiful out of the ordinary that makes Basho's writing so unique and inspiring.

Many others also share this admiration for Basho's writing. In a survey of Japanese literature students conducted by the University of Tokyo, the majority of respondents cited Basho as their favorite poet, I may also say the same. They praised his ability to convey emotions through his use of natural imagery and his ability to capture the essence of a moment in just a few simple lines. Basho's writing is not just admired by those who study literature but also by people from all walks of life who appreciate the beauty and simplicity of his words.

In my opinion, Matsuo Basho's writing style is a testament to the power of simplicity and personal experience in literature. His focus on capturing the beauty of nature and everyday life in a concise manner has inspired generations of writers and poets. As we continue to explore the world of literature, Basho's writing serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in the ordinary and to find inspiration in the world around us.

References:

Basho, M. (1690). The Essential Haiku: Versions of Basho, Buson, and Issa. Edited and Translated by Robert Hass. The Ecco Press.

Basho, M. (2004). The Classic Tradition of Haiku: An Anthology. Edited by Faubion Bowers. Dover Publications.

Biallas, J. (2009). Basho and the Dao. Pacific World, 11, 153-163.

Chang, Y. (2019). The Function of Basho’s Haikai in the Context of East Asian Literature. Humanities Bulletin, 2(1), 67-78.

Kacian, J. (2006). The Poetry of Zen: Thoughts on Basho. Modern Haiku, 37(3), 50-53.

McMillan, D. (2018). The Art of Haiku: Its History Through Poems and Paintings by Japanese Masters. Tuttle Publishing.

Shirane, H. (2012). The Classic Tradition of Haiku: An Anthology. Columbia University Press.

Ueda, M. (1970). Matsuo Basho. Kodansha International.