Perspectives on ‘Day of the Dead’

Day of the Dead represents a Western version of Halloween. With its skulls, masks, costumes and other related objects, the Day of Dead in Mexico is something beyond the trick-or-treat concept but rather connected to one’s deep heritage and family roots. It’s a celebration of sorts but with deep emotional linkage to one’s family and culture. While Halloween enables many to enjoy costumes and food/candy, there’s not typically a conjoined cultural impact.

According to The Day of Dead in Mexico Web site, Day of the Dead represents a mixture of Christian devotion and Pre-Hispanic traditions and beliefs. As a result of this mixture, the celebration comes to life as a unique Mexican tradition including an altar and offerings dedicated to the deceased.

I view this “ceremony” as a celebration of life rather than a process for mourning the dead. Although, Day of Dead does both, one can’t help but witness this as more of a joyous occasion, celebration. True to tradition, the ceremony leverages many natural elements including earth, wind, fire and water. According to the site:

Earth is represented by crop: The Mexicans believe the souls are fed by the aroma of food.

Wind is represented by a moving object: Tissue paper is commonly used to represent wind.

Water is placed in a container for the soul to quench its thirst after the long journey to the altar.

Fire is represented by a wax candle: Each lit candle represents a soul, and an extra one is placed for the forgotten soul.

While nature is a large component, the theatrical aspect can’t be missed. As mentioned earlier, the use of masks and costumes captures the celebratory, theatrical elements and lures participants to engage and celebrate one’s family and culture. The offerings – those items placed during Day of the Dead – are a key aspect of the celebration and represent the individual feelings toward life.

Skeletons are another key aspect of the Day of Dead celebration. These are often prepared by a bakery and later shared by the family.

The Day of the Dead ceremony has certainly opened my eyes to cultural aspects not touched in my own family, experiences. It’s comforting to know that cultures take time to celebrate death through the lens of one’s life – it brings neighbors and families together, it takes time to experience, mourn, heal, it extends one’s culture no matter where they happen to be.

Woman with a Somber Gaze
Woman with a somber gaze,
Tell me, what do you see in the candles?
are they ghosts in the night
or are they flowers of the earth?

What do you treasure on your lap
illuminated and transparent,
even in the air
your silhouette appears?

Twice as much the pain,
twice as much the loss,
the flowers have become rivers
and the fragrance cries out.

Pondering at night,
vigil of the imagination,
bundle of lights and echoes,
stay up late during the wake... Woman with a tender gaze
the flames of candles reach out;
are they mocking this moment
or are they restfully flickering out.

In your illuminated face
life rejuvenates,
to those who love death
this is a golden ninght in their sight.

For those who love life
it is a night of confusion,
the wax kisses the flowers
and the flame caresses the emotions.

Julie Sopetran, 1995
(Spanish poet)

Irish Fairy Tales

Usheen’s Return to Ireland: And when he saw it he had such a wish and feeling for it that he forgot what he was told and got off the horse (Gregory, 257). This line confirms the power of one’s feelings about traditions, culture and “home.” Usheen was given a gift of longevity with one simple rule, “don’t touch the ground,” yet when we returned home he was transformed from young man to old man. Usheen was lost without his family and cultural landscape – he realized this by forgetting his “fortune” and moving toward his heritage.

Again, we see the value of one’s heritage in Dreams of Gold. While Anthony Hynes is searching for gold, a cobbler delivers an important message of finding riches within one’s own garden. I took this to mean the importance of individuality and that cultural beliefs and traditions are often sought after in other places. In reality, riches are very near but too many don’t think this…they typically daydream far away.

The Birth of Finn MacCumhail: A traditional tale of attempted murder and trickery. The grandmother realizes her grandson’s fate and saves him by entering the deep, dark forest. How many times have I read this at the start of a fairy tale? A lot. Several traditional components…the giant, the fish, the close calls with the king, exist throughout this tale as well as the repetitious scenes.

The giant called out, “Where are you?”
“On Finn’s finger,” cried the ring. That instant the giant sprang at Finn and almost came down on his head, thinking in this way to crush him to bits. Finn sprang to a distance. Again the giant asked, “Where are you?”
“On Finn’s finger,” answered the ring. (Curtin, 241)

The Man Who Had No Story was my favorite tale. There are several Irish traditional components – the hostility toward the English, the power of music and dance, the church, storytelling. With this, storytelling, we see one man who has limited skill or no desire to tell a tale that he finds himself involved in many situations. The situations are far fetch but, in the end, help Brian appreciate the gift of storytelling.

Regarding space and time, within many of these tales, space and time was often exaggerated. While perception indicated a small amount of time had passed, the tale told of years that passed. The same occurred with space. Space was unlimited and did not hinder movement from place to place.

Yama Bushi vs. Kamabara

What is similar about Yama Bushi and Kamabara? I was surprised to see the exact same set design! They also flowed in an organized sequence of events. The body movements and costumes were similar – quick steps and a lot of color respectively. I enjoy the color in the Asian culture. There doesn’t appear to be any hesitation with the use of color. Both plays made good use of props – a blind man’s stick, rope, knife, etc. And, the props connected to strong traditions typically found in Japanese culture – suicide (with a knife) is often seen as a code of honor. Similar to Busu, both plays demonstrated similar bodily movements that were often repeated – the “suicide” and the blind man attempting to escape for example. Both plays obviously demonstrated comical aspects – often seen through the repeated behaviors and scenes. Finally, both were short which is typical in a Kyogen play.

What is different about Yama Bushi and Kamabara? Kamabara seemed to use more “American” speaking language…while both plays were in English, I didn’t pick up on a Japanese accent in Kama as I did while watching Yama. Perhaps this was an accident but definitely something I noticed as a difference. Another difference was the overall content or theme of each play. In Yama, we see more of a religious tone; in Kama we see domestic and social issues being addressed. This brings another difference – in Yama there are only male characters; in Kama we see a strong female character. Although she is “downsized” with a traditional husband tone, she does provide initial comedic moments because she appears out of character within a Japanese play. Another difference is that Kama had singing – the husband/lead character ended the play while singing his lines vs. speaking them.

I don’t have the best memory. I don’t recall any jokes that relate to either play. However, the mischievous characters and bantering between husband and wife reminded me of a Shakespearean play such as Much Ado About Nothing or Taming of the Shrew. In Shakespeare’s comedies you can find the comedic nature between the characters…the language is strong and often plays the leading role.

Impressions of Japanese culture

When I think about Japanese culture, I think about tradition, discipline, vibrant colors, hard working, and, of course, Shogun/Godzilla! My initial thoughts take me to Shogun. I remember this movie with Richard Chamberlain…not sure why, however. I also remember watching Godzilla as a young child. This movie was strange to me – most likely due to the poor quality of the special effects. I remember laughing at it. Because I’ve never been to Japan my impressions are strongly influenced by the media – books, TV, movies.

I do feel a sense of strong tradition and great passion for one’s cultural beliefs when thinking about Japan. One can’t argue about the history as Japan has been around for thousands of years. This isn’t something the U.S. can compete with. The strong sense of family (the elderly especially) are a great part of the Japanese culture. I’ve seen this during my visits with my sister-in-law. Although KO is Korean, I feel that this cultural belief extends throughout Asia. The kimono is another example of a grand sense of long history and tradition. It’s a celebration of sorts – again, the closest I’ve come is with my Korean sister-in-law when she wore her kimono during a family celebration. This form of dress is often used during holidays, celebrations and weddings.

When thinking about Japanese culture, I also think about their strong influence across the business and auto industries. They’ve been on the fast track with technology and the auto industry for quite some time. It demonstrates a culture of influence across the business track. Japan hit hard times in the 1990’s but showed an ability to bounce back – perhaps something our economy will need to do now. The Japanese culture is sustaining and often dominating through a quiet approach. They have a desire to build and influence the world (not uncommon) but they also appear to celebrate their long standing traditions through a sense of independence. Although, I’ll assume that the younger generations are typical in that they may appreciate the historical culture but would rather move and look forward to future prospects.

The Western influence is everywhere – fast food, iPods and clothing to name a few.

One thing is for certain, while searching out cultural differences, similarities also pop up which demonstrates our commonalities as people and overall human nature.

What makes me laugh? A good comedy, especially a live one! And, as noted above, the original Godzilla movie makes me

Hotel Rwanda: Beyond culture

In Hotel Rwanda, a man (Paul Rusesabagina) fights for the freedom of about 1,000 Tutsi people by hiding them in his hotel. It’s hard to imagine that the 1994 massacre resulted in so many deaths. The most horrific scene for me was when Paul and another man flee from picking up supplies only to run over dead bodies that lay in the road. Not just a few bodies here and there but as far as the eye could see. Because of the acting talents, the viewer not only witnesses the impact of this terrible event but also feels the aftermath when Paul returns to the hotel. He falls to the floor, face in arms and cries out loud (no one hears him because he closed the door). It’s like a punch in the gut.

The other difficult scene was when Paul and the others would learn that the UN was not able to rescue them but rather their energies were focused on the “white internationals.” To leave defenseless people behind (orphaned children) for slaughter without a guide in place was truly unimaginable. How could any government allow this? Similar to other movies this semester, politics, social status and economic gain played a key role in Rwanda’s genocide. The Tutsis were not worth saving – there was no gain with this. Only after the fact when many learn about the murderous rampage did more attention come. Not in time of course. And today, there’s killing in Kenya and beyond. What have learned from the past? Apparently, we’ve learned very little.

Early in the film the Tutsi – Hutu people get along and work side by side. But it doesn’t take long for those relationships to divide (the tensions were there but buried for a time). Once the president is murdered by the Hutu rebels everything breaks wide open. Paul finds his attentions directed toward an amazing dilemma; the hotel becomes a forced after thought. Soon the Tutsi – Hutu people turn against one another but more against the Tutsis. It’s hard to imagine such a civil war but when propaganda and the ability to move one’s message across the “loud speakers” are in play it’s hard to stop the energy of control over the weak.

Paul’s strength is his ability to negotiate and overall resourcefulness – skills acquired through the hotel no doubt. We witness the bartering, the exchanges of liquor, jewelry, etc – all to sustain lives. To save his family he would do anything. To save the other Tutsis would require more time for him to realize that without his help they would all die. It was amazing to witness Paul convincing one military leader to help him or he may be charged as a “war criminal.” This person was more concerned about the world’s view of him versus helping innocent victims in great turmoil. Eventually, Paul and the others make it to the UN camp where they find their nieces and less turmoil. One could say it was a happy ending for them at least.

Overall, the film was alarming. It’s hard to imagine such a horrific time in my current society such as a civil war. The film actually confirmed many of my thoughts of Africa – genocide, deprivation, mass killings. On the other hand, Paul’s character demonstrated that, even during the most difficult times, the human spirit can rise up no matter where you are in the world. It doesn’t take art or a specific cultural belief to realize compassion and a strong love for one’s family and the innocent. I’m relieved that my knowledge of Africa and its people goes well beyond this film.

Africa: Wild & Wonderful

Do I have memories of dancing as a child? I sure do! I loved to dance when I was younger and still do many years later. As a child, I remember dancing around the Christmas tree – with or without music. I was very outgoing and silly. I enjoyed “putting on a show” and dance promoted that for me. As an adult, I often dance around my condo, with my Pug Bronco looking on. When I was younger I was not inhibited by my dancing even if someone was looking on. Now, that I’m older and most likely influenced by society, I don’t purposefully dance around alone if I know someone is watching. I find this somewhat sad – I’m a victim of age and influence. I need my dancing shoes!

When you hear music, are you affected by the rhythm you hear? I love rhythm and enjoy “club” music very much. I’m inspired to move my body when I hear a certain beat/rhythm. The blues, drums and rap music provide me with the greatest jolt to move. Music without words mostly encourages me to dance and create body movement as well. Most likely because I’m able to self interpret and not be influenced by the words as to what to feel and dance. The street style, theatre show Stomp is a great example of free movement and expression. The use of garbage cans, plastic bags, sticks…anything that promotes sound…demonstrated the use of innovative tools to create “music” and sound. The group was never discouraged to use anything – it truly inspired movement and made you feel like you could do it because everything they used was within reach (or your own backyard!).

Do you think of Africa as a country or continent? This is an interesting question. I often think of Africa as a country most likely because “state” is more common and part of my cultural influence as a U.S. citizen. I forget that Africa is made of many countries vs. states. When I think of Africa, the National Geographic comes to mind. I also think of lions, zebras, giraffes, and most other wild-like creatures. Famine comes to mind as well. Most likely influenced by the media attention, genocide frequents my thoughts. For reasons unknown, I have always wanted to visit Africa. Perhaps the excitement – wild, unique, tribal attributes. I may get there one day to meet my child.

Personal & social space

Man’s evolution has been marked by the development of the “distance receptors” – sight and hearing. Thus he has been able to develop the arts...(40). Hall’s references about man’s sensory organs and the relationship they have with our ability to interpret and “advance” is taken for granted. With each century our evolvement has created an ability to experiment and advance technology in advantageous ways. Unless it’s brought to my attention I’m not aware of the impact of my sensory organs and perception of space. When asked the question, “how does where and how we grow up, influence how we perceive the world and ourselves in the world,” I think of small, constrained spaces. As mentioned in earlier discussions, I spent a lot of time at my home, in the backyard. Growing up on a small farm with parents that preferred to stay home, I didn’t have a lot of social time (outside of school, neighborhood kids). Perhaps that’s why I don’t feel all that influential on the world. My childhood was pretty much one-dimensional and driven by parental influences. One could say that’s how the young typically grow or one could say that I was limited in my growth. I prefer to look at it as the means behind my desire to see the world and sustain relentless focus on forward-looking opportunities. I remember thinking the world was a huge place – not something I would capture in my mind. Now, I realize how in common we all are. Hall shares the benefits of keeping your culture close but reaching out to other languages, social situations and cultures to expand your own. Never lose your culture but enhance your own perceptions of the world through other cultures/regions. I like being close and often find myself touching people. It can be an arm touch, pat on the back or a hug. Reactions are interesting and I’m interested in my willingness to reach out in this way. I’m a New Yorker after all and often we don’t touch. I personally prefer closeness but not at all times. Space is important to me – Hall notes the Western preference for space and our comfort with separate spaces for specific activities.

In terms of fixed and semi-fixed feature space, I’m a victim of fixed feature space for sure! I’m willing to use the areas of my home for specific activities such as the kitchen for cooking, assigned bedrooms (master, guest) for sleeping, living for TV viewing and visiting with friends. As Hall notes, fixed-feature space is one of the basic ways of organizing the activities of individuals and groups (103). When visiting my brother and sister-in-law in S. Korea, I noticed that KO (sister-in-law) and her family don’t have formal assigned spaces – they hang all around. While they cooked in the kitchen and showered in the bath, the sleeping arrangements were defined by a mat, not necessarily a room. Also, the living space was up for grabs – it contained a bit of everything and was used for whatever purpose required at the time (eating, socializing). I relate more to organized areas but feel willing to throw caution to the wind upon occasion. For example, my condo has a sun room but instead of adding the typically wicker furniture and endless plants, I made it my home office. The endless light inspires me to be creative and motivated. My kitchen would most likely be frowned upon by many. It’s small but I like it. I don’t spend a lot of time in this room – I’m in and out – but when I’m in the kitchen it’s a comfy spot. It’s promotes warmth and togetherness. It’s off the dining room. Interesting that Hall notes this “vanishing” room and I have one in full bloom. Perhaps one of my favorite because of the colors and drapes – lot’s of drama with blue, yellow and pumpkin colors. The building was constructed in the mid-1920s when families dined together and “studios” were a thing of the future. When it comes to semi-fixed feature space, I’m more prone to a diagonal layout – something more intimate and close. And, unexpected! I love to use frames in places you wouldn’t necessarily see them…also, the frames are empty. Frames alone are pretty special and your mind is able to “change” the Artwork everyday.

My home is 1300 square feet. While I mentioned a desire for close, intimate spaces, I do enjoy time and space to spread out. As a result, you won’t see clutter. Everything has a place and if something isn’t needed, it doesn’t come home. I feel this creates a sense of what’s important to me. I don’t prefer the distraction of things – more focus on experiencing life through travel, please! Something outside my home is always a nice memory as long as I can return to my fixed, semi-fixed space.