Sunday Music: Like Cold November Rain (Go Easy, Rider)

When your fiancé says “Let’s put some G N’ R on” you don’t argue. You embrace being 10 again, popping the cassette into the deck, and basking in the glory of using one’s illusions.  Whatever age you were when you heard “November Rain” (or especially when you first saw the video), it sticks with you.  … Continue reading Sunday Music: Like Cold November Rain (Go Easy, Rider)

The Cuckoo (Hero’s Journey Alternates)

Joseph Campbell’s “hero’s journey” can work like a plug-and-play template. It’s a proven framework for creating tension and resolving conflict with plenty of main character development along the way. The artistic world is full of similar structures - one of my alternate favorites is a folk song format called “The Cuckoo.” Learning to spot any … Continue reading The Cuckoo (Hero’s Journey Alternates)

When Joan Rivers Met GWAR

Calling anyone who makes something they feel personally invested in. Not just for an anonymous corporate overlord. Something you put a little piece of your best effects into, at the soul level.  Musicians, artists, writers - craftspeople of all types. Athletes and business people count too.  Anyone who has spent an insane amount of time … Continue reading When Joan Rivers Met GWAR

Searching For Success, Finding It, Staying Grounded (The Bear)

I’m saving a piece of beautiful writing here (and acting, you should watch The Bear, but in case you don’t, I think you’ll want to read this - no spoilers).  We’re dropping in on a conversation for this scene. It’s part of training sequence, like the one in every Kung Fu movie, where the master … Continue reading Searching For Success, Finding It, Staying Grounded (The Bear)

Modern Art, Modern Mirrors (Barry, Succession, and Ted Lasso Edition)

Three of the finest shows I’ve ever seen wrapped before the mid-point of 2023. I'm not here to spoil anything so relax. I'm also not going to talk about them in a way where if you never saw a single episode this matters. I'm bringing them up because Barry, Succession, and Ted Lasso are holding up … Continue reading Modern Art, Modern Mirrors (Barry, Succession, and Ted Lasso Edition)