Rafine Bilgiler (Staging)

Kategori: CULTURE

  • Pompeii: The City Buried in Ashes by the Fires of Lust

     

    On August 23, 79 AD, first the ground shook with cracking sounds, then a pitch-black cloud obscured the August sun, turning day into night. Ash began to fall from the sky. The people of Pompeii were accustomed to the monster’s occasional grumbling. Therefore, they were unbothered at first; they continued their daily lives, their pleasures, their love affairs. A few days later, the giant mountain trembled one last time with a terrifying rumble, transforming into the mouth of a giant, fire-spewing dragon. Vesuvius, in a series of violent eruptions, unleashed lava and rocks, instantly wiping out the city with its 200,000 residents. People died from lava, rocks, and mostly suffocating from poisonous gases like sulfur dioxide. At the moment of the massive eruption, no one had the chance to move or escape. Some were caught while kneading bread, others while in a brothel. The sour scent of dough and sweat hung in the air, mingling with the scent of sulfur. The city turned to stone; it petrified and fell silent. Its silence lasted for nearly 2,000 years…

    Two thousand years later, when Pompeii was discovered and excavations began, people were found petrified in their final moments, as well as the last loaf of bread left in the oven.



    Pompeii spans a vast area. It’s hard to navigate without a map… You can pick up a map at the entrance.

    We enter Pompeii from Porta Marina. The city is laid out in a grid, with wide main streets and narrow alleys. With a slight climb, we pass through the Temple of Venus and the Basilica, reaching the Forum area. The ground is paved with stones, with small white stones interspersed among them. These are called “moon stones,” which served as reflectors at night, lighting up the streets in the absence of streetlights by reflecting the moonlight.

    We learn that during Pompeii’s vibrant days, household waste and sewage would flow outside. This system was established to allow people to walk comfortably and cross the streets easily. The city was naturally ventilated by the sea breeze with salty, oceanic scents coming from the port area, preventing any stench. We’re at the top now. Under the February sun, the breeze from the port carries the salty scent of the sea and sailors.

    Turning left from the Forum area, you’ll find Granai del Foro and Mensa Ponderaria, where petrified human remains are displayed. Most have been moved to the National Museum of Naples, where they are exhibited. Continuing left, you reach Terme del Foro, the Forum baths. Before reaching Lupanare (the brothel), at the intersection of two main streets, you’ll find Terme Scablane, which is another bath and spa center. Immediately to the right, you’ll find a narrow street leading to the 8-room brothel. Each room has a raised stone bed, and above each door, there is an illustration depicting the sexual services provided in each room. Exiting Lupanare and descending from Terme Scablane, you reach the area where Foro Triangulare (the Triangular Forum), the Grand Amphitheater, the Temple of Isis, the Theater Portico, and the Odeon are located. From the amphitheater, if you go left and climb up, the villas and the House of the Painters, with well-preserved frescoes and wall paintings that once belonged to the city’s wealthy, will mesmerize you.When you exit the station and, with the station behind you, enter the Corso Via Emanuelle 1 on the left, then turn right at the first intersection and take the parallel Corso Fiora, you will reach the Naples National Archaeological Museum at the end of this street in a large, old stone building.
    At the Naples National Archaeological Museum, we start in a hall featuring a large map and model of the city of Pompeii, moving through galleries displaying frescoes, surgical tools, kitchenware, ornaments, and jewelry. By the time we finish, it’s 12:30. We then explore the mosaic gallery and the secret room on the intermediate floor. Only then do we realize that, without visiting this museum, the experience of Pompeii would indeed feel incomplete. Seeing the frescoes, artifacts, jewelry, and mosaics brings to life the splendor and wealth of Pompeii. In the secret room, encountering erotic art—even beyond erotica into the realm of sexuality and debauchery—makes one wonder if this society was truly punished by the gods.

  • How Are Denim Trousers Made ?

    Jeans have become an indispensable part of everyday wear, preferred by millions of people around the world. Known for their durability, comfort, and style, jeans go through a long production process. We will explore the history and production stages of jeans. 

    The Origin of Jeans 

    The origin of jeans dates back to the 19th century. In 1853, Levi Strauss decided to produce durable work pants for gold miners in California, USA. Strauss made his pants from “denim,” a popular blue fabric of the time. Denim fabric, with its durable structure and blue color, was a suitable material for the harsh working conditions of laborers. Strauss added metal rivets to the corners of the pockets to increase the durability of the pants. This innovation was the first step in making jeans popular worldwide. 

    The Production Process of Jeans 

    Cotton Harvesting 

    The first step in producing jeans is the harvesting of cotton. The cotton plant is the main raw material for denim fabric. After harvesting, the cotton is spun into yarn. 

    Production of Denim Fabric 

    The harvested cotton is spun into yarns in spinning mills, which are then used in the production of denim fabric. These yarns are woven crosswise on looms. Denim fabric is usually produced with the warp threads dyed blue and the weft threads left white. This creates the characteristic blue-white color combination of jeans. 

    Dyeing the Fabric 

    Denim fabric is dyed with indigo dye to achieve its blue color. The dyeing process is usually repeated several times to obtain the desired intensity of blue. At this stage, treatments such as stonewashing or sanding can be applied to specific areas of the fabric to create different effects. 

    Cutting and Sewing 

    Once the dyeing process is complete, the denim fabric moves on to the cutting stage. The fabric is cut according to the design of the pants and made into pieces. Details such as pockets, the waistband, and the zipper or button area are prepared at this stage. The cut pieces are then assembled using sewing machines. At this stage, metal rivets and stitching details, inherited from Levi Strauss’ original design, are also applied. 

    Washing and Finishing 

    The sewn jeans are usually subjected to a washing process. This process helps the pants take their final shape and softens the fabric. During the washing process, various techniques such as stonewashing, sanding, and chemical treatments are used to give the pants the desired appearance. Effects ranging from an aged, worn look to a clean and smooth finish can be applied. 

    Inspection and Packaging 

    After the washing and finishing processes, the jeans go through a quality control stage. Each pair of jeans is inspected to ensure they are flawless before being packaged and made ready for sale. 

    Jeans take their place in our wardrobes after a long and meticulous production process. The journey, which began under the leadership of Levi Strauss, has made jeans a fashion icon worldwide. Today, jeans continue to be an essential garment for people of all ages and styles, available in various cuts, colors, and effects. 

  • The Historical Journey of Coffee

     

    Coffee is a widely consumed beverage with a rich cultural history worldwide. The history of coffee dates back to the 15th century in Yemen. In the high-altitude regions of Yemen, the coffee plant (Coffea arabica) naturally grows. According to legend, a shepherd named Kaldi noticed that his sheep became more energetic after eating coffee berries. After discovering this, Kaldi took the berries to a local monastery. The monks there observed that when they boiled and drank these berries, their alertness increased. Thus, coffee was first prepared and consumed in this region. 

    From Yemen, coffee eventually spread to the Middle East and North Africa through the Ottoman Empire. In the 16th century, the first coffeehouses opened in Istanbul, becoming centers of social and cultural interaction. Coffeehouses provided a space for people from various social classes to come together for conversation, debate, and entertainment. These venues also hosted literary activities, musical performances, and games. During this period, coffee became a widespread beverage in society and was also recognized as a symbol of social status. 

    Coffee reached Europe in the 17th century. The first coffeehouses opened in Venice in 1645, followed by Paris, London, and other European cities. European coffeehouses became important venues for scientific discussions, trade negotiations, and social interactions. For instance, the “Coffee Houses” that opened in England in the 18th century contributed to the development of intellectual thought and the emergence of various philosophical movements. During this period, coffee was regarded as an elite beverage and became a symbol of social status in some European countries. 
    In the 19th century, the coffee industry underwent a significant transformation. The development of coffee machines and packaging techniques allowed coffee to reach a wider audience. The widespread availability of coffee paved the way for the development of various coffee types and brewing methods in different countries. Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia began to stand out globally in coffee production. 

    In the mid-20th century, the emergence of instant coffee and coffee chains changed the way coffee was consumed. Instant coffee gained popularity, especially during World War II, as a convenient beverage alternative for soldiers. Later, the emergence of coffee chains like Starbucks transformed coffee culture into a modern experience and significantly altered coffee-drinking habits. These chains contributed to coffee becoming a lifestyle element by offering various coffee types and brewing methods. 


    Today, coffee holds great importance worldwide as more than just a beverage; it is a cultural phenomenon and a tool for social interaction. Every country has its unique coffee culture and consumption rituals. The historical journey of coffee has made it not only a beverage but also a cultural symbol that has significantly impacted humanity throughout history. Today, coffee continues to exist as a source influencing art, music, and literature, and it remains a social bond that brings people together. In this way, coffee, staying true to its historical roots, has become an indispensable part of modern life. 

  • Who is Sebahattin Ali ?

     

    Born in 1905 in the Gölbaşı district of Turkey, he was an important Turkish author, poet, and playwright. Ali, who came from a revolutionary family background, was raised in this environment and developed an interest in literature from an early age. After completing his primary education, he continued his education in Ankara. Sabahattin Ali began his literary career with poetry, publishing his first poems in 1921, and gained recognition with the publication of his work “Ağaç” in 1923. 

    In Sabahattin Ali’s works, deep themes such as the inner conflicts of individuals, social issues, and the loneliness of the individual come to the forefront. The author presents these themes to his readers with a realistic perspective in his works. Among his most famous works are novels like “Madonna in a Fur Coat,” “The Devil Inside Us,” and “The Mill.” “Madonna in a Fur Coat” is Sabahattin Ali’s most renowned work, deeply exploring the complexity of human relationships, love, and loneliness. The novel tells a love story that develops through a painting while also questioning the social and cultural structures of the time. “The Devil Inside Us,” on the other hand, is a work that draws attention to the inner conflicts of individuals, their relationship with society, and their moral values. 

    In the 1930s, Sabahattin Ali, who adopted a dissenting attitude against the political pressures of the time, made social critiques in his works, which brought him into the spotlight. During this period, he was also involved in journalism, writing articles for various magazines and newspapers. Particularly, topics such as social injustice, class differences, and human rights frequently appeared in his works. Ali did not see literature as merely an art form but also as a tool for social change. Therefore, his works are marked by a revolutionary spirit and social sensitivity. 

    In the 1940s, after being imprisoned for political reasons, the hardships he endured during this period were reflected in his works. In 1948, he disappeared and was killed while attempting to leave the country. After his death, his works reached a wider audience and left a lasting impact on Turkish literature. Sabahattin Ali’s works are considered important texts in Turkish literature, written from a realist perspective. From the 1950s onward, his works resurfaced and influenced a new generation of writers. 

    Sabahattin Ali left a lasting mark on Turkish literature with the depth of his literature and his sensitivity to human nature, and his works continue to be read to this day. 

  • twenty one pilots history

     

    This duo, consisting of Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun, masterfully blends different music styles such as indie pop, hip-hop, electronic music, and alternative rock, offering their listeners a unique experience. They don’t confine their music to a single genre. Their music might start with hip-hop rhythms, then merge with an intense electronic beat, and finally draw the listener into deep thoughts with a melancholic piano melody. These transitions between genres are one of the most distinctive features of the band, making them stand out in the music world. 

    Tyler Joseph’s lyrics address both personal and social issues. He tackles internal struggles such as anxiety, depression, and the search for identity in a meaningful and sincere way. Songs like “Stressed Out” and “Car Radio” powerfully reflect the challenges of youth and the pressures of the modern world, allowing them to form a deep connection with their audience. 

    Concerts 


    Attending a Twenty One Pilots concert is not just about listening to music; it’s about witnessing a visual spectacle. Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun captivate the audience with their stage performances. Their energetic stage shows allow listeners to lose themselves in the music. Colorful lights, special effects, and the duo’s energy make their concerts unforgettable. 

    Achievements 

    Twenty One Pilots, initially a band playing in local venues, became an international phenomenon with the release of their 2015 album “Blurryface.” This album received widespread acclaim from both critics and listeners, with songs like “Stressed Out” topping global charts. Their 2018 album “Trench” is considered a testament to the band’s musical evolution. 


  • Review of Jack London’s Novel “Martin Eden”

     

    This work not only narrates the rise of a man but also delves deeply into the impact of society on the individual. The novel tells the story of Martin Eden, who strives to prove himself as a writer while transcending his social class, boldly addressing the changes occurring in his inner world and the impositions of capitalist society. 

    Martin’s Confrontation with Life 

    Martin Eden, who starts his life as a member of the working class, attempts to climb the social ladder with the dream of becoming a writer. Throughout the book, Martin’s confrontation with the difficulties and disappointments of social stratification leads London to question the societal structures that limit individual potential. Martin’s relationship with literature and art is a force that both elevates him and isolates him. 

    Martin Eden

    Martin is a person determined to develop himself intellectually and culturally. However, the more he learns, the more he deeply understands the superficiality of the society he lives in and the emptiness of his dreams. Throughout the novel, Martin’s love, passion, and ambition represent his character, while simultaneously preparing his downfall. 

    Social Criticism 

    Through Martin Eden, Jack London critiques the pressures of capitalist society on the individual. Martin’s rise ultimately does not bring him the happiness he expected; instead, it leads him to realize the superficial values of society and his own inner emptiness. In this work, London reveals how achieving success and social acceptance can threaten an individual’s spiritual integrity. 

    In Conclusion  

    “Martin Eden” is not just the story of a writer but also a powerful study of how the modern world shapes and ultimately consumes the individual. Through Martin’s tragedy, London arrives at an ending that can be seen as the inevitable result of man’s alienation from himself and society. The book makes the reader think deeply while not allowing them to forget the human drama behind Martin Eden’s struggles. 

  • The IMDb of Books is Goodreads

     

    Goodreads is designed for book lovers. Founded in 2006 by Otis Chandler, this site allows users to track the books they have read, write reviews, rate books, and create reading lists.

    Useful Features

    Users can write reviews of the books they have read and rate them between 1 and 5 stars. They can add books they wish to read in the future to their Reading List. The site offers book recommendations based on users’ reading history and preferences. Users can join book groups to discuss specific books or topics. It provides numerous benefits and is an organization that enriches the reading experience and encourages the sharing of knowledge among book enthusiasts.

  • Linkin Park: The Face of Modern Rock

     

    When Linkin Park was formed in 1996 in Agoura Hills, California, USA, no one had any idea that they would revolutionize the rock music world. The founding members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Rob Bourdon, Joe Hahn, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, and Chester Bennington were different people from different genres. 



    Thanks to Linkin Park’s first album, Hybrid Theory (2000), they instantly became a globally recognized band. The album received great acclaim by combining alternative rock, nu-metal, and electronic elements. The aggressive guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and hip-hop influences in their songs set the band apart from others. The success of Hybrid Theory was followed by Meteora (2003), which solidified the band’s success and brought them great hits. Songs like “Numb,” “In the End,” and “Somewhere I Belong” were highly praised by both critics and listeners alike.



    The Transformation of the Group and Different Searches


    With the release of Minutes to Midnight in 2007, the band took a new musical direction. The more mature and experimental approach in this album showed that the band was not confined to just one genre. Tracks like “What I’ve Done” and “Bleed It Out” proved to listeners that Linkin Park constantly offers an evolving sound palette.


    The albums A Thousand Suns in 2010 and Living Things in 2012 revealed how the band members expanded their personal and political styles. These albums brought both radical changes and some controversies, but at the same time showcased the band’s artistic expansion and experimental nature. This was due to the aging of the band members and the constantly evolving electronic music industry. 


    Chester Bennington’s Farewell

    Chester’s presence in the band greatly contributed to the Linkin Park sound. His powerful vocals showed the world what a big voice he had. The passing of Chester Bennington in the summer of 2017 caused great sorrow in the music world. After his death, the band members went through a difficult period both musically and personally.