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Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Oh Britain, of Weather Most Foul by The Quillmatic Bardinator #poem


girl rain cold bad weather sad



Oh Britain, of Weather Most Foul 
by The Quillmatic Bardinator

Sonnet for the British Weather


When lofty clouds do gather in the sky,
Where raindrops dance 'pon cobblestone,
The tempest’s fury whispers as she flies,
A symphony of gray, a weathered tone.

Yet in this misty veil a beauty lies,
The verdant hills adorned with dew-kissed green,
Where daffodils and primrose rise,
Their fragile petals in the breeze careen.

Oh, fickle sun, your warmth is but a tease,
For every ray is followed by a squall,
And chilly winds sweep through the ancient trees,
As if to test our spirits, one and all.

So let us raise our mugs of tea on high,
And toast to Britain’s ever-changing sky.




©Sarnia de la Maré FRSA Tale Teller Club 2024
www.taletellerclub.com
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Monday, April 1, 2024

Candide by Voltaire, a famous book, a relentless, brutal assault on government, society, religion, education, and, above all, optimism







Candide, written by the French philosopher Voltaire, is a satirical novella that was first published in 1759. The full title is “Candide, ou l’Optimisme”, which translates to “Candide, or Optimism” in English1. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Candide:

Plot Summary:The story begins with a young man named Candide, who lives a sheltered life in an idyllic paradise. His mentor, Professor Pangloss, indoctrinates him with Leibnizian optimism, believing that “all is for the best” in the “best of all possible worlds.”
However, Candide’s life takes an abrupt turn, and he faces great hardships. His journey leads him to witness and experience the follies and horrors of the world.
The novella is characterized by its bitter and matter-of-fact tone, parodies adventure and romance clichés, and draws inspiration from historical events like the Seven Years’ War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.


Themes and Philosophical Critique:Religion and Philosophy: Voltaire ridicules religion, theologians, and philosophers. He directly challenges Leibnizian optimism, advocating a more practical approach: “we must cultivate our garden.”
Human Condition: Candide’s disillusionment reflects the human condition—our encounters with suffering, absurdity, and the imperfections of the world.
Satire: The novel satirizes various aspects of society, including governments, armies, and philosophies.


Legacy and Impact:Controversy: Upon its secretive publication, Candide faced bans due to its religious blasphemy, political sedition, and intellectual critique disguised under naivety.
Inspiration: Despite the scandal, the novel’s wit and insightful portrayal of humanity have inspired countless authors and artists.
Magnum Opus: Today, Candide is considered Voltaire’s magnum opus and is frequently taught in French literature courses12.

In this whimsical tale, Voltaire invites us to question blind optimism and embrace a more pragmatic view of life. 🌿📖

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Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Carmilla, written by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu #sex #vampire #attraction #fiction

 

Carmilla, written by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, is an 1872 Gothic novella and one of the early works of vampire fiction. It predates Bram Stoker’s Dracula by 25 years1. The story is narrated by a young woman who becomes the prey of a female vampire named Carmilla, later revealed to be Mircalla, Countess Karnstein. Carmilla is a prototypical example of the lesbian vampire, expressing romantic desires toward the protagonist. The novella is often anthologized and has been adapted into various films and other media1.

Here’s a brief summary of the plot:

  • The story is presented as part of the casebook of Dr. Hesselius, who is considered the first occult detective in literature.
  • The protagonist, Laura, begins her narrative with her childhood in a picturesque and solitary castle in Styria. She lives there with her wealthy English widower father, who has retired from service to the Austrian Empire.
  • When Laura was six years old, she had a vision of a beautiful visitor in her bedchamber. Although no wound was found, she claims to have been punctured in her breast. The household dismisses it as a dream, but security is increased.
  • Twelve years later, Laura and her father are admiring the sunset when her father shares a letter from his friend, General Spielsdorf. The General was supposed to visit with his niece, Bertha Rheinfeldt, but Bertha died under mysterious circumstances.
  • Unexpectedly, a carriage accident brings a girl of Laura’s age into their care. Her name is Carmilla. Both girls recognize each other from the “dream” they had when they were young1.

The haunting atmosphere, threads of eroticism, fear, and suspense make Carmilla a compelling and psychologically rich narrative. If you’re intrigued by vampire lore and Gothic tales, this novella is well worth exploring! 🌑🌹🦇

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Friday, March 22, 2024

“The Monk: A Romance” by Matthew Gregory Lewis, a Gothic Novel audiobook version and essay



 The Monk

 Let’s delve into the dark and captivating world of “The Monk: A Romance” by Matthew Gregory Lewis. This Gothic novel, published in 1796, weaves a tale of corruption, forbidden desires, and supernatural forces. Buckle up as we explore its twisted plot, memorable characters, and enduring impact.

Overview and Context

  • Title: The Monk: A Romance
  • Author: Matthew Gregory Lewis
  • Genre: Gothic novel
  • Publication Date: 1796

Plot Summary

“The Monk” has two intertwined plotlines that keep readers on the edge of their seats:

  1. Ambrosio’s Downfall:

    • Ambrosio, a celebrated monk in Madrid, is the central character. Abandoned at an abbey as an infant, he grows up to be virtuous and revered.
    • His closest friend, Rosario, reveals her true identity as Matilda, a woman who disguised herself to be near Ambrosio.
    • Matilda nurses Ambrosio back to health after a serpent bite, and their relationship takes a dark turn. She tempts him into forbidden desires, leading to a secret affair.
    • When Ambrosio becomes infatuated with the virtuous maiden Antonia, Matilda offers him a sinister solution: witchcraft.
    • The consequences of Ambrosio’s choices spiral into murder, lust, and damnation.

  2. Raymond and Agnes:

    • The subplot follows the romance between Raymond and the nun Agnes.
    • Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of Ambrosio’s downfall, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

Themes and Elements

  • Gothic Horror: “The Monk” epitomizes the Gothic genre, emphasizing horror, suspense, and the supernatural.
  • Forbidden Desires: Ambrosio’s inner struggle with desire, lust, and temptation drives the plot.
  • Intriguing Characters:
    • Ambrosio: Initially virtuous, he succumbs to darkness.
    • Matilda: The enigmatic temptress who leads Ambrosio astray.
    • Antonia: The innocent maiden caught in the web of intrigue.
  • Witchcraft and the Occult: Matilda’s involvement with Lucifer and her use of magic add an eerie dimension.
  • Moral Decay: The novel explores the corruption of virtue and the consequences of sinful choices.

Legacy and Adaptations

  • Influence: “The Monk” left an indelible mark on Gothic literature. Its scandalous plot and vivid characters inspired countless imitations.
  • Stage and Screen: The novel has been adapted for theater and film, capturing its dark allure.

Conclusion

“The Monk: A Romance” remains a haunting and influential work. Lewis’s ability to blend horror, passion, and the supernatural ensures its place in literary history. So, dear reader, immerse yourself in this twisted tale—it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.

References:

  1. Wikipedia: The Monk
  2. Goodreads: The Monk
  3. LibriVox: The Monk
  4. Amazon: The Monk: A Romance
  5. Project Gutenberg: The Monk
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Wednesday, March 20, 2024

The Book of Immersion Series on Amazon














The Book of Immersion (10 book series)
Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) , Sarnia de la Mare (Author)




Journey into a Surreal Dystopia: The Book of Immersion by Tale Teller Club

In the realm of literature, there exist rare gems that transcend traditional storytelling boundaries, weaving a tapestry of worlds that blur the lines between reality and fantasy. The Book of Immersion by Tale Teller Club is one such enchanting creation that beckons readers into an intriguing, dystopian universe where the ordinary and the extraordinary collide, and nothing is quite as it seems.

The narrative within The Book of Immersion unfolds in a world unlike any other, teetering on the precipice between reality and fantasy. The characters that inhabit this literary realm are primarily divided into two categories: humans and robots. Yet, it's the enigmatic homotechs that truly captivate the imagination. These peculiar entities straddle the line between humanity and machinery, a testament to the novel's capacity for pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

As readers embark on their journey through this strange and fascinating world, they'll quickly discover that "The Book of Immersion" is not your typical dystopian narrative. Here, music and literature hold the keys to unlocking a sensory cerebral high, painting a vivid backdrop of emotions and experiences that are nothing short of otherworldly. This convergence of art forms infuses the story with a unique and compelling energy, creating a narrative atmosphere that is, quite literally, immersive.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its ability to harmonize ethereal surrealism and stark reality, a duality that is typically challenging to balance. The Tale Teller Club seamlessly combines the two, allowing them to coexist within the same literary space. The juxtaposition of the bizarre and the everyday blurs the boundaries of possibility, making readers question what is real and what is a product of their own imagination.

The characters in The Book of Immersion are not just ordinary beings; they are multifaceted and dynamic, revealing layers of complexity as the narrative unfolds. The homotechs, in particular, challenge preconceived notions of identity and existence, highlighting the fine line that separates humans from machines. Their presence in the story adds a layer of philosophical reflection, exploring themes of consciousness, sentience, and the essence of what it means to be alive.

In this strange dystopian world, the reader is invited to partake in a profound journey of discovery. The Book of Immersion encourages us to reconsider our understanding of reality, delving into the depths of our own perceptions and pushing the boundaries of our imagination. It challenges us to see the world through a new lens and to explore the hidden facets of existence that may elude us in our everyday lives.

As you immerse yourself in the pages of The Book of Immersion, you will be transported to a world that defies conventions and embraces the extraordinary. Tale Teller Club's narrative mastery guides you through a mesmerizing landscape where the surreal and the tangible coexist, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery.

In a world that increasingly blurs the boundaries between reality and fantasy, The Book of Immersion serves as a poignant reminder of the power of literature to transcend and transform, making it a must-read for those seeking to explore the unknown and question the limitations of their own imagination.
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There are 10 books in this series. Select the number of items you want to purchase.
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Kindle price
$9.88+ applicable tax
Buy 10 items now with 1-Click

By clicking on "Buy now" you agree to Amazon's Kindle Store Terms of Use
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC



Books in this series (10 books)
Hide books you have in your Kindle library

1
Book of Immersion V1 Strata 1 : Renyke Awakes (Purpose) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)


Book of Immersion V1, Strata 1, (Purpose) serves as the genesis of the narrative, where readers are introduced to the essential elements that will shape the tale. Within this initial layer of the story, the scene is meticulously set, and two pivotal main characters step onto the stage, laying the foundation for a captivating journey.
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2
Strata 2: The Maybe Line (Friendship) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Strata 2 of the Immersion series explores a new friendship for Renyke, something he has not experienced before.
There are 21 episodes in Volume one named Strata and numbered.
The book is about the coming of age of AI and the possibilities and effects it will have on humans.
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3
Strata 3: Flex and the Robo-Dog (Making Decisions) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke and Maybeline make their way through the zones and there is already trouble

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4
Strata 4: The Zoners (Meeting Strangers) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke attempts to navigate the busy streets in the dangerous zones.

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5
Strata 5: Renyke Goes to The Bank (Memories and Experiences) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke needs money but is unsure how to get in this strange underground world.

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6
Strata 6: Trouble at the Bank (Animal Instincts) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke is taken to the bank to get money in order to continue his journey to Redact. But can these androids be trusted?

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7
Strata 7: Jarome and the Scritters (Trade and Barter) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Without the POS, Renyke is expected to call upon new skills, but why is he finding it so hard?

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8
Strata 8: Shabra (Laws of Attraction) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke finds himself inexplicably drawn to a stranger. How can this make sense? The changes he feels have not been experienced before.

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10
Strata 10: Dinfant Trouble (Synthetic Love) (The Book of Immersion)
by Sarnia de la mare (Author)
What are these Dinfant creatures and just how dangerous are they? Renyke, Shabra, and Flex, meet a potentially sticky end.

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11
Strata 9: Limerence (Loins and Lust) (The Book of Immersion 11)
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author)
Renyke is feeling strange sensations in his body and strange emotions in his mind.

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Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Chatting about erotic content on YouTube with Sarnia de la Maré FRSA



Let’s delve into the captivating world of Helmut Newton, the renowned Australian photographer whose work left an indelible mark on the realms of fashion, portraiture, and sensuality.
Helmut Newton: A Provocative Visionary
Early Life and Escape from Oppression

Born as Helmut Neustädter on October 31, 1920, in Berlin, Germany, Newton’s life took a dramatic turn due to the oppressive Nuremberg laws that targeted Jews. His family, facing increasing restrictions, eventually fled to Argentina. At the age of 18, Newton left Germany, embarking on a journey that would shape his artistic trajectory.
From Singapore to Australia

Newton’s path led him to Singapore, where he worked as a photographer for the Straits Times. However, fate intervened, and he found himself interned by British authorities during World War II. Transported to Australia aboard the Queen Mary, he arrived in Sydney in 1940. After his release from internment, he briefly worked as a fruit picker before enlisting in the Australian Army.
The Transformation into Helmut Newton

Post-war, he became a British subject and adopted the name Helmut Newton in 1946. Setting up his studio in Melbourne’s fashionable Flinders Lane, he captured the essence of the affluent postwar era through fashion, theatre, and industrial photography.
Provocative and Iconic Work

Newton’s lens was unapologetically bold. His black-and-white photographs, often charged with eroticism, graced the pages of Vogue and other prominent publications. His provocative images explored sensuality, power dynamics, and the human form. Whether capturing high-fashion models or nudes, Newton’s work was unmistakably his own.
June Newton: His Muse and Collaborator

In 1948, Helmut Newton married actress June Browne, who later reinvented herself as the successful photographer Alice Springs. Their partnership extended beyond marriage; June became his muse, modeling for iconic portraits. One such portrait, taken in 1950, features June wearing a “Hat of the Week” for Myer’s Department Store.
Legacy and Influence

Helmut Newton’s legacy endures. His lens dissected societal norms, challenging conventions and celebrating individuality. From German chancellors to nude models, he captured the essence of humanity with an unflinching gaze.

So, let us raise our metaphorical cameras to Helmut Newton, the visionary who immortalized sensuality, power, and beauty through his lens. 📸🖤

For more about Helmut Newton, you can explore his artworks on Artnet1.

!Helmut Newton Portrait


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