writing journal
Assignment 1: childhood collections writing journal.
Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 1: childhood collections writing journal.
How many of you collected “things” when you were younger? For this journal entry I want you to think about the things you collected as a child. Think about how that collection played a part in developing your character/identity. If a family member helped you with your collection, tell us about the relationship that developed from that shared interest. If by chance you have any photos, do include them.
When I was 13, I was obsessed with lip smackers, and growing up in the generation we are now, Gen Z lip smackers were a popular product. I remember when they first came out and everybody was posting them on Tumblr, which was a social media platform that was very popular at the time I remember the first time I ever got a lip smacker was when me and my mom went to Target with my siblings, and just went to look around and see what we would find and I came across the makeup section and found a set of lips smackers and I remember them being fruit flavors. They were mango, strawberry, watermelon, pineapple, orange, lemon, and at first, I was excited. I asked my mom if I could get them, and my mom said yes.
I never really had tried lip smackers before I have only heard of them and if I were being honest in my head, I thought they were regular ChapSticks but after I got home and opened them up and tested the first one that I thought of which I believe was the watermelon. My mind was blown by the flavor and the amount of pigment these lip smackers had out of this world. I didn’t know how to react I thought I was testing a really expensive product but then again, at the moment they were only retelling for about 3 to 4 dollars and it wasn’t that bad of a price because it usually varied from packs of four to packs of 10 and you would get a lot of lip smackers in a pack after my first ever pack of lip smackers I decided to keep buying more I didn’t want to stop. I wanted to try every single flavor that lip smack came out with, so every time I went to Walmart or Target or any supermarket or drugstore that had these lip smackers, I would always end up going home with a pack.
At first, I had collected 25 lip smackers, and I remember going to school and counting each one of them out every flavor, every color, every lip, smacker, and all of my friends would tell me that I was going crazy and why did I have so many lip smackers and I would tell them that I didn’t know why? I just felt like it was a comfort for me. I really liked all of them and I wanted to collect as many as possible and they were all a little bit weirded out or surprised by this, but I did not really care or put mind to it. after one year of collecting lips smackers, I had about 50 to 60 lip smackers, and most of them were already worn out and were ready to be tossed out and I didn’t want to give them up, but I knew that it was going to be a hard decision to make because I eventually had to grow out of them. I was in middle school, and it was not trendy anymore. They were not as popular, and it was 2016 nobody was interested in lip smackers anymore. Newer products were coming out and were overselling lip smackers. I would slowly notice they were not placed on shelves anymore. They were not being sold at other stores, and slowly my obsession with lip smackers ended.
I donated a few to a couple of friends, some I kept for myself, and I threw out the old, expired ones out. I am not sad or angry or weirded out by the fact that I had this cute little obsession I feel that everyone has their own product or TV show or book that they obsess over, and they just continue to follow the trend of getting more use of this product or getting more quantity of the product, so I feel that I’m happy. I had a cute little obsession and it was lip smackers because they made me the person I am today I take really good care of my lips now in 2024 and I always make sure to remember, the good years that I had back 2015 and 2016 when I was in middle school because those are years that you remember and cherish them more thank you lip smackers for shaping me as an individual and becoming a part of my life as a child.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 2
Today I researched intriguing world of collections, discovering the odd story of Michel Lotito, also known as Monsieur Mangetout, the man who ate an entire airplane. “At the age of 9, Lotito reportedly began eating glass and metal — a habit that would continue throughout the course of his lifetime”. The significance of Lotito’s collection of consumed items was due to his underlying medical condition he had, known as “Pica.” “Pica is a disorder characterized by the consumption of non-nutritive substances, such as metal, clay, or chalk. Lotito’s case was extreme, even for Pica standards, but his ability to consume such large and unconventional objects fascinated medical professionals and the public alike.”
Despite the odds of Lotito’s collection, His collection serves as a reminder of the vast spectrum of human behavior and the mysteries of the human body. If i had the time and energy to look for some object I think I would collect silly bands because of their cute shapes but I would not eat them.
While my hypothetical collection may not rival the strangeness of Michel Lotito’s, it would be a testament to the beauty and complexity of human creativity and exploration. Just as Lotito’s collection challenges our understanding of what is possible and what the human body is capable of because you do not often see people eat solid objects, but for Michael that was not the case.
Sources cited:Meet Michel Lotito, the Man Who Ate an Entire Airplane … or So He Claimed | Snopes.com
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Eric Fonseca
Writing Journal 3
One example of a fetish object would be a vintage fetish necklace that is made of a variety of materials for example some are made with elastic string and crafted beads some are made with shark teeth others are made with custom made crystals and some are even made with animal like shapes. This object is a very famine and fetish as it consists of the belief culture within your tribe (Zuni tribe) or a significant energy or connection within your belief system. This belief system or culture must be connected to the spirit realm of an animal as it connects to the entity of an animal such as a bear or even a wolf.
These necklaces are used for cultural reasons as well, for example the necklace can be used in rituals to help the upbringing of certain animals, or it can even be used as a protective talisman. This fetish object is foreseen and used in many aspects as it is important to tribes and similar branches. Each fetish object made with the necklace represents an animal spirit believed to possess unique qualities and powers. These beads are meticulously crafted from materials such as turquoise, coral, seashells, and various crystals, each chosen for its spiritual resonance to their significant role.
In Zuni tradition, the fetish necklace is not just a piece of jewelry, but a sacred object with the essence and energy of the animal spirits it embodies. These animal spirits are used as guides, guardians, and sources of wisdom, and the necklace serves as a symbol for communication and gathering with these spiritual entities. Beyond its spiritual importance, the fetish necklace plays a particular role in most rituals, healing practices, and everyday life within the Zuni community. It is worn during dances, ceremonies, and other communal gatherings, where its presence serves to invoke the protective powers of the animal spirits and to foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
Moreover, the fetish necklace serves as a symbol of identity and belonging for the person wearing it, affirming their cultural heritage and ancestral history. It is often passed down through generations, carrying with it the memories, stories, and blessings of those who have worn it before. In conclusion, the Zuni fetish necklace is a tangible expression of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the spiritual forces that animate the world. Its significance extends far beyond its material form, embodying the beliefs, values, and traditions of the Zuni people and serving as a link between the physical and spiritual realms.
Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 4
A few objects I researched were kitsch but one struck out to me the most, the Velvet Elvis painting. This iconic piece of pop culture has been in American society, finding its way into countless homes, thrift stores, and even museums. Despite its dubious artistic merit, the Velvet Elvis remains a cherished artifact of kitsch, embodying a unique blend of pop history, irony, and popularity.
The Velvet Elvis goes all the way back to the mid-20th century, a time when mass-produced artworks became increasingly accessible to the people. While the precise history of the Velvet Elvis is all a mystery, it gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, coinciding with the rise of Elvis Presley as a cultural icon. The Velvet Elvis typically features an image of Elvis Presley recreated in vibrant colors on a black velvet background. The choice of velvet adds to the painting’s structure, giving it a shiny touch, almost velvety texture. Initially marketed as a novelty item, the Velvet Elvis quickly gained popularity among Elvis fans and collectors, becoming a hit of roadside souvenir shops and flea markets across the U.S.
The Velvet Elvis represents kitsch in its finest form. Its similar look to Elvis Presley, mixed with the vibrant colors and tacky velvet backdrop, embodies the kitsch aesthetic of appealing to popular taste while embodying pure quality. Despite all that, the Velvet Elvis holds a certain charm that resonates with audiences of all ages. The painting’s kitsch status is further cemented by its fame in popular culture. From references in movies, television shows and memes on the internet, the Velvet Elvis has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the intersection of art, nostalgia, and irony. Its status as a kitsch icon is perpetuated by its enduring popularity, with enthusiasts continuing to seek out and celebrate this vibrant peace of art.
I find the Velvet Elvis painting endlessly fascinating. Its ability to simultaneously embody high camp and lowbrow culture speaks to the fluidity of artistic taste and the power of nostalgia. While it may lack the artistry of more traditional works of art, the Velvet Elvis holds a unique place in the kitsch genre, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of Elvis Presley and the enduring appeal of pop culture.
In conclusion, the Velvet Elvis painting stands as a testament to the enduring genre of kitsch in contemporary society. Its status as a cultural icon represents its humble origins, embodying the playful spirit of popular culture while challenging traditional notions of artistic value. Whether viewed as a piece of art from the past or a shiny spot commentary on the nature of art, the Velvet Elvis continues to captivate audiences and inspire fascination to this day.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 5
The Chinese New Year dragon holds immense cultural significance as an icon deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and the Chinese New Year. Originating from ancient rituals, the dragon symbolizes power, strength, and good fortune in Chinese culture. It is an integral part of New Year celebrations, paraded through streets to bring in prosperity and ward off evil spirits for the upcoming year. As a cultural icon, the dragon embodies the collective spirit and identity of the Chinese people, reflecting their reverence for tradition and their hopes for a prosperous future Aswell as a healthy living space.
The dragon’s journey to becoming a cultural icon began many centuries ago, evolving alongside Chinese civilization. Its roots can be traced back to ancient legends and folklore, where it was referred to as a divine creature capable of controlling Chinese elements. Over time, the dragon became involved with imperial symbolism, representing the authority and power of rulers. Its depiction in art, literature, and performance further cemented its status as a symbol of Chinese identity which is why now made during chines parades and the famous celebration in China the Chinese New Year.
Today, the Chinese New Year dragon dance is a spectacle celebrated worldwide, captivating audiences with its vibrant colors, intricate movements, and rhythmic music. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the dragon dance serves as a symbol of unity, bringing communities together to embody their shared heritage and aspirations for the future. As a cultural icon, the Chinese New Year dragon continues to inspire many people Chinese or not the dragon is one of the strongest chines symbols which is why it must continue to be a culture icon.
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Eric Fonseca
ENG 207
Writing journal 6
Journal Entry: The Role of Clothing and Identity from the Ancient Egyptians
The ancient Egyptians, a civilization renowned for its ancient fashion legacy, crafted a distinctive identity through various cultural practices, one of which was their fashion attire. Clothing played a huge role in shaping the social, religious, and cultural identity of the ancient Egyptians, reflecting their values, beliefs, and social hierarchy.
At the heart of ancient Egyptian clothing was symbolic to their culture and lifestyle. Every garment, from the humblest linen loincloth to the elaborate robes of the pharaoh, meant specific meanings and communicated the wearer’s status, occupation, and role in society and hierarchy.
For instance, the quality and style of fabric were significant indicators of social status. Fine linen, finely woven from flax fibers, was reserved for the elite, including the pharaoh, priests, and nobility. The use of linen not only reflected the Egyptians’ mastery of textile production but also symbolized “purity” and “prosperity”. In contrast, “coarser fabrics” like wool were more common among the lower classes.
Moreover, the cut and design of garments also played a crucial role in defining identity. The iconic attire of the pharaoh, also known as the king, symbolized royal power and divine authority. These garments were imbued with religious significance, connecting the pharaoh to the gods and reinforcing the concept of the divine kingship for the hierarchy.
Similarly, the attire of priests was developed by rightfully chosen ceremonial robes, often adorned with symbolic symbols such as hieroglyphs, sacred animals, and religious symbols that fit their attire. These garments not only identified priests as middle- men between the mortal realm and the divine but also served as a means of expressing devotion to the gods.
Beyond social and religious contexts, clothing also played a role in gender identity and expression in ancient Egypt. While men typically wore “loincloths” or “kilts”, women’s attire included a wider range of garments such as “kalasiris” (a simple sheath dress) or more elaborate draped robes. Accessories like jewelry, cosmetics, and headdresses further embellished and personalized their attire, enhancing their femininity and status.
In conclusion, clothing in ancient Egypt was far more than mere adornment; it was a powerful tool for shaping and expressing identity. Through the amazing design, fabrication, and adornment of garments, the ancient Egyptians not only distinguished themselves within their society but also lived up to their cultural legacy for many years to come.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 7
Stephanie Kwolek, A chemist back in the 60’s created Kevlar, a synthetic fiber that was heat resistant. Like many groundbreaking innovations, Kevlar emerged from the need of synthetic materials and due to the lack of traditional materials.
Stephanie Kwolek’s journey started in the 1960s when she was working as a researcher at “DuPont’s Pioneering Research Laboratory.” At that time, there was a huge need for stronger, lightweight fibers to reinforce tires. Traditional materials were falling short of meeting the demands of modern engineering, especially in applications where strength and durability were highly needed.
Kwolek experimented with many polymer solutions, looking for one that would bind fibers with exceptional strength and durability. In 1965, she discovered a unique solution of liquid crystalline polymers that displayed amazing properties. Despite initial criticism from her colleagues, Kwolek insisted, and her persistence paid off when the solution was spun into fibers that were not only Super strong but also lightweight and resistant to heat and other chemicals.
The impact of Kwolek’s invention was seen as a relief. Originally intended for use in tires, Kevlar quickly found applications for her invention far beyond its initial use. Her invention was so good that she even found the material fit for body armor, revolutionizing the protection of law enforcement officers, military personnel, and countless others in high-risk positions and professions. Kevlar’s ability to take in and dissipate kinetic energy proved invaluable in saving lives and preventing injuries from alarming threats.
Beyond personal protection against alarming threats, Kevlar has found its way into many industries, including aerospace, sports equipment, and automotive engineering. Its versatility and durability have made it a quality material for applications starting from aircraft components to sporting goods up to helmets and racing sails.
Today, Kevlar stands as a testament to Stephanie Kwolek’s amazing scientific invention as a woman in the 60’s. Her invention not only resolved a specific problem in the genre of material science but also made its way to its original purpose to become a unique element of modern life. this also comes to show that men are not the only creator’s woman are too, Kwolek’s legacy stands as a reminder of the amazing power of scientific creation and the potential for small objects to change the world.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 8
Diamond Obsession:
As I researched the depths of human obsession, one stood out to me the most among the rest and that is diamonds. These expensive gems, known for their beauty and rarity, have captivated mankind for centuries. But behind the glimmering diamonds lies a tale of destruction and devastation, fueled by our insatiable desire.
At the start of this obsession lies the diamond mining industry, a multi-billion-dollar enterprise that has caused destruction in its path. From the blood-stained fields of conflict zones to the environmental devastation wrought by open-pit mining, the human cost of our diamond obsession is becoming a problem. In conflict-ridden regions such as Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo, diamonds have funded brutal wars, perpetuated violence and suffering on a massive scale. The term “blood diamonds” has become synonymous with these gems tainted by human suffering, as they are mined under conditions of extreme exploitation and abuse. But the destruction wrought by our diamond obsession extends far beyond the human toll.
The environmental impact of diamond mining is equally worse, with massive amounts of land stripped bare and ecosystems terribly damaged. Open-pit mining leaves behind scars on the earth that may never fully heal, poisoning water sources and destroying fragile habitats in the process. Moreover, the allure of diamonds has fueled a culture of consumption and excess, perpetuating a cycle of greed and materialism that threatens to consume us all. From lavish diamond-studded jewelry to extravagant displays of wealth, our obsession with these gems has distorted our values and priorities, leading us further away from what truly matters.
As I reflect on all this, I realize that greed is a huge part of obsession, and it can take control of people in a very bad way diamonds are just one of many man obsessions that have taken our world for a spin, and it won’t be the last. The more people get the more they want and its always going to be a cycle because that’s the way life goes.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing journal 8
Cultural Objects
One religious object that holds significant historical and cultural importance is the Shroud of Turin, a linen cloth bearing the image of a man who appears to have suffered physical trauma consistent with crucifixion. The history of the Shroud of Turin is shrouded in mystery (pun intended). It first appeared in historical records in the 14th century, but its origins are debated. Some believe it to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, while others argue it is a medieval forgery. The shroud has been housed in the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin, Italy, since 1578. During Christmas, the Shroud of Turin is a sacred relic believed by many to be the actual burial cloth of Jesus, bearing his image imprinted miraculously now of his resurrection.
The authenticity of the shroud has been the subject of intense scientific scrutiny. In 1988, carbon dating tests suggested that the shroud originated from the Middle Ages, casting doubt on its purported connection to Jesus. However, later research has questioned these tests’ reliability due to possible sample contamination. Other scientific studies have attempted to replicate the image formation process without conclusive results, leaving the mystery of the shroud unresolved.
Regardless of its authenticity, the Shroud of Turin has captivated the imagination of believers and skeptics alike for centuries. It has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and religious devotion. Pilgrims from around the world visit Turin to view the shroud, and it remains one of the most studied and debated relics in religious history.
Overall, the Shroud of Turin continues to be a fascinating and enigmatic object, stirring both faith and curiosity in equal measure. Its history and significance reflect the enduring power of religious relics to shape beliefs and inspire devotion across cultures and centuries.
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Eric Fonseca
Writing Journal 10
One occult object I was interested in was the Crystal Skulls. These intriguing artifacts are often associated with mysticism and ancient civilizations. While there are many crystal skulls claimed to be old and ancient, I’ll focus on the most famous one, the Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull. This skull was made from a single piece of clear quartz crystal which fascinates me because when I was little, I loved playing with crystal’s especially clear quartz as it had a lot of healing properties.
The Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull was mainly discovered by Anna Mitchell-Hedges, the adopted daughter of British explorer F.A. Mitchell-Hedges, during an expedition to Belize in the 1920s. The way this skull was created remains a mystery, as it exhibits intricate craftsmanship that defies conventional tools. Crystal skulls were believed by some to have been created by pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations such as the Aztecs or the Maya. However, most archaeological evidence suggests that the known crystal skulls are likely modern creations, crafted in the 19th or 20th centuries using modern tools.
The Mitchell-Hedges Skull has been very controversial regarding its authenticity. Throughout history, crystal skulls have been involved with various mystical and “metaphysical properties”. They are believed by some to possess healing abilities, psychic powers, and the capacity to enhance spiritual growth. Some practitioners of alternative medicine and New Age spirituality use crystal skulls in rituals, meditation, and energy work. The impact of the Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull on its supposed owner, Anna Mitchell-Hedges, is a matter of speculation.
Overall, this object holds a lot of significance and purpose in many aspects of occult culture and its divine alleged power might just be the most interesting aspect of it I would have never thought that an object made of clear crystal quartz would be so powerful to do such an impact.
