Sunday newspapers are covered by Rock Paper Shotgun
The occurrence of finding a new hobby at the age of almost 40 can be a transformative experience. Sunday afternoons might become dedicated to playing Split Fiction and learning to use a new, expensive camera, part of an ongoing cycle of trying out new activities. In the absence of success, one might find solace in revisiting classic TV shows like Band of Brothers.
Florence Smith Nicholls documented their time at a live-action role-playing event inspired by the game Disco Elysium for Eurogamer. The LARP, named 97 Poets of Revachol, took place in a former military hospital in TerezĂn. The abandoned building they rented from the town underwent renovation to be transformed into the game’s fictional setting, “La Cage.” Participants played as residents of this intricate world, complete with living spaces, bars, clubs, and even a church. Notably, the LARP did not revolve around the original game’s characters or plots but offered a unique opportunity to embody a character within that universe.
The decline of personal websites and blogs from the 2000s has left a void in the online landscape. The individuality in design and content creation that once flourished on these platforms is irreplaceable. The act of experimenting with HTML and CSS, free from the constraints of conformity, has become a lost art. In a related vein, Henrik Karlsson shared insights on maintaining a successful blog, emphasizing the value of writing about niche topics without fear of alienating readers.
For Wired, Jessica Lucas delved into the world of anonymous YouTubers creating content centered around street racing in New York. Despite initial skepticism, the authenticity of their content was confirmed when a video surfaced showing risky stunts being performed on city streets. The allure of danger and excitement captured in these videos resonates with a wide online audience.
The New Yorker recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, prompting reflections from former editor Tina Brown on her tenure at the publication. Brown shared her initial reservations about joining the magazine, citing concerns about its aging demographic and outdated content. Despite these challenges, she played a pivotal role in modernizing The New Yorker for a new generation of readers.
Criticism of Bo Burnham’s “Inside” sheds light on the challenges faced by creators in responding to audience expectations. As the analysis suggests, Burnham’s exploration of themes like depression and anxiety in the midst of a simulated apocalypse raises questions about artistic authenticity and self-awareness. The complex layers woven into Burnham’s work invite viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of reality and existential dread.
In a moment of nostalgia, the music selection of the week is Blur’s “For Tomorrow,” a song that evokes a sense of longing and reflection on the passage of time. The enduring appeal of 20th-century music serves as a reminder of the universal experience of anticipating what the future may hold.