Oh, wait. I'm not allowed to say stuff like that anymore. Or at least not for very much longer. This Tuesday, 22 November, the Protection of State Information Bill was passed. This means that the government will soon be able to hide information from the public in order to regulate information regarding the state. So, limiting freedom of speech essentially.
This one takes the cake for not learning from previous mistakes. I mean, seriously? After going through Apartheid, our still-developing democracy is going to be undermined. South Africa seems to have a history and a habit of not heeding the majority of public opinion (again, exhibit X - the Apartheid era). So many people have gone against this bill, calling it Black Tuesday. This is taken from the previous Black Wednesday in Apatheid where certain newspapers, organizations and people were banned.
That's not the only parallel to be observed. Part of being free is being able to say what you want about anything (as long as it's not blatantly offensive to any individual or group). Especially regarding the government. The government is voted in by the people. Thus, the people deserve to know what the government is up to. If the government is able to hide whatever they wish from the public, it disallows for constructive critique and scrutiny.
It is already not that easy to keep up with all the political riff-raff that goes on. With certain knowledge being withheld, corruption becomes far easier. Public figures will be able to get away with murder (or take another 3 wives) without the media being able to report it.
In all fairness, the bill says that it works in favour of "national interest". But let's be serious. Nation interest is dependent on perspective and is too vague. That's a nice, big loophole to jump through. And public figures like Malema are well trained (jump, deny, deny, accuse, jump).
It's been shown that satire can expose injustices in government. Just earlier I was watching V for Vendetta (2005), and I was shocked at what I saw. I saw a translation of a future in South Africa where the government controls all through falsehood and omitting vital information. Satire often keeps the government under wraps, especially cartoons. Zapiro's way of illustrating government failures and shortcomings is comprehensible, humorous and true.
But this Act will see the end of that. Is this the freedom that thousands died for? Some freedom. Limited. Controlled. Corrupt.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Disney: Molding Childhoods Since 1923
What would life be without Disney. I can't imagine my life without those good-ol' animation favourites. I know you've all heard this before (and probably thought it yourselves a million times), but it makes me irrevocably depressed that the kids currently growing up are more interested in becoming adults (like walking around in heels and minis at the age of 11) than just being children and watching brilliant animations. I mean, just the other day I watched Adam's face light up when I rented Mulan for us to enjoy.
Founded in 1923 by the Disney brothers, the Disney franchise has brought joy into the lives of millions, and not just children. While Disney movies have gone through a few adjustments, the classic Disney legacy will always live on through people like me.
Maybe I'm immature. I don't care. So, in honour of the greatness that was and is Disney, I have compiled a list of Disney animations that I will force my children to watch when they are young. Obviously, for the sake of brevity, I'll only be doing my favourites (so no screaming at me, I know I'm leaving some out!) In chronological order:
But this is part of me, this Disney obsession. And I hope it continues. Come on Disney, keep the flame burning. Keep my heart alight.
Founded in 1923 by the Disney brothers, the Disney franchise has brought joy into the lives of millions, and not just children. While Disney movies have gone through a few adjustments, the classic Disney legacy will always live on through people like me.
Maybe I'm immature. I don't care. So, in honour of the greatness that was and is Disney, I have compiled a list of Disney animations that I will force my children to watch when they are young. Obviously, for the sake of brevity, I'll only be doing my favourites (so no screaming at me, I know I'm leaving some out!) In chronological order:
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) - the first full-length Disney animation. I still have my VHS recording of this one! Snow White, the original animal-whisperer, was my idol.
- Bambi (1942) - I still weep like a wimpy little girl watching this one. Thumper will always be the star for me.
- Cinderella (1950) - the first proper princess movie. I used to dream of owning that blue gown and having my own fairy godmother to boss little critters around.
- Alice in Wonderland (1951) - imagination. And madness. Although, from my side, I almost prefer the 1999 TV-film version. Almost.
- Peter Pan (1953) - that crocodile taught me about persistence! And I want to fly, it's not fair. Lastly, fairies exist. Especially loved the Hook (1991) and Finding Neverland (2004) interpretations.
- Lady and the Tramp (1955) - that spaghetti-scene will forever form part of my ideal of romance. Yes, it's cheesy (no pun intended). Yes, I'm not a dog. Yes, I love spaghetti.
- Sleeping Beauty (1959) - I don't think it matters what kind of girl you are; every girl wants a prince to slay a dragon and defeat the wicked witch for her, and then seal the deal with a perfect kiss.
- One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961) - total animal-lover film. I begged my mom to get me a dalmatian after watching this. And I was dead-set on changing my dog's name to Pongo.
- The Jungle Book (1967) - for some reason, the opening music to this movie freaked and still freaks me out. But, it is very important for everyone to learn the "bear" necessities (see what I did there?).
- Robin Hood (1973) - the first post-Walt movie; although he died in '66, he had still approved all Disney movies, until this one. Such a fun movie, always got a kick out of watching Prince John being constantly trounced. And, of course, the romance between Robin Hood and Maid Marian.
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977) - Tigger was one of my nicknames in high school. Just shows how a movie can still have a profound impact so many years later, even if it's just a reference. I will always associate myself with Tigger.
- The Little Mermaid (1989) - the beginning of what I consider the Disney Golden Decade, from '89-'99. Full of fishy fun; now if only I could meet a mermaid and swop lives with her. I think a tail would look pretty good on me.
- Beauty and the Beast (1991) - very much like real life; appearances are so deceiving. And true love isn't just shared amongst the typical perfect-looking boy and girl. Love transcends all things.
- Aladdin (1992) - the first movie produced in my lifetime. Your run-of-the-mill poor boy meets rich girl and they get together against all odds.
- The Lion King (1994) - no words can describe my extreme emotional attachment to this one. Simba forever.
- Pocahontas (1995) - brings out the hippie in me. It makes me want to live in the wild and become one with the earth so that I can see those colours in the wind.
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) - Esmeralda, one of my favourite heroines. So beautiful and mysterious. I can see the pattern of cliches that have been strung through Disney films (and general ethnocentric view). I recognise that criticism in this one. And yet the magic still remains.
- Hercules (1997) - love the mythological theme. Hades makes for such an excellent villain. But Meg still steals the show in feisty, mortal style.
- Mulan (1998) - absolutely epic. What a demonstration of girl power. Goes against the weak-female character of so many Disneys. I also love the identity aspect of it; the whole finding-yourself thing. Plus, Mushu rocks.
- Tarzan (1999) - marks the end of my Disney Golden Decade. I still cry watching Tarzan's journey of discovery and the balance between "civilization" and wild. Clayton is also one of the greatest villains ever; he shows that often the monster/savage lies within oneself.
- The Emperor's New Groove (2000) - I contemplated whether this should be on the list, but this movie's quirky humour clinched it. This one moved away from the classic Disney style into a different, fast-paced style.
- Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001) - also love the legend quality in this one. Milo makes for a lovable hero, taking one for the nerd team.
- Treasure Planet (2002) - the same-old young boy trying to prove himself. Enjoyed the way they adapted the original Treasure Planet story to a space milieu. And Morph is super cute! Way better than a parrot.
- Brother Bear (2003) - both heart-breaking and heart-warming. Packed full of emotion and just makes you want to give your sibling a huge hug. Until they look at you weirdly and tell you to get a life.
- Tangled (2010) - I can't explain how impressed I was by this movie. I mean, wow. The closest this generation will come to a classic Disney. It gives me hope for the future. More of that, if you please!
But this is part of me, this Disney obsession. And I hope it continues. Come on Disney, keep the flame burning. Keep my heart alight.
Monday, November 14, 2011
The End of The Beginning
So, after a lot of hard work and stress, my first year of university has come to a close.
It's strange to think that at the start of this year I was absolutely lost and confused, not used to such a huge campus and large amount of people. Also, coming from an all-girls high school, I had to brush up on associated with guys on an everyday basis. Not an easy task. But, being the loud and at times obnoxious person I am, friends came quite quickly.
I have met some crazy, fun and unusual people. I am proud to call some of those loonies my friends. But something I've noticed about varsity is that while I've made lots of friends, only a handful of those individuals are close to my heart and people I would go the extra mile for.
Already having a fair amount of previously-known people at my university, I have a large 'safety net'; friends that I have already become close to. While I love these people and it's nice to have a support system, it can have its drawbacks. Because of this circle of friends, I didn't venture out of my comfort zone as much as I would have liked to. I didn't let people in as much as I could have.
So my goal for next year: try to connect to people. On a close, real level. And not be as automated; pay more attention to people's responses and emotions. Share more, give more of myself.
Varsity is harder than I expected. It is not on the same level as high school at all. While I don't struggle with self-discipline, I often get frustrated with people who achieved better grades than me without working as hard as I do (such as not attending class, generally not paying attention to academics, and so on). What am I doing wrong? Are they smarter than me? But think I've been able to adjust to the new system fairly well. Although adjustments to my standards have been employed, I maintain good marks. But this holiday I want to try harder to be prepared for next year. By reading interesting books and such, not only lazing around.
My goal for this holiday: self-improvement. So that, next year, I'll be ready. And I continue on the path to my future.
It's strange to think that at the start of this year I was absolutely lost and confused, not used to such a huge campus and large amount of people. Also, coming from an all-girls high school, I had to brush up on associated with guys on an everyday basis. Not an easy task. But, being the loud and at times obnoxious person I am, friends came quite quickly.
I have met some crazy, fun and unusual people. I am proud to call some of those loonies my friends. But something I've noticed about varsity is that while I've made lots of friends, only a handful of those individuals are close to my heart and people I would go the extra mile for.
Already having a fair amount of previously-known people at my university, I have a large 'safety net'; friends that I have already become close to. While I love these people and it's nice to have a support system, it can have its drawbacks. Because of this circle of friends, I didn't venture out of my comfort zone as much as I would have liked to. I didn't let people in as much as I could have.
So my goal for next year: try to connect to people. On a close, real level. And not be as automated; pay more attention to people's responses and emotions. Share more, give more of myself.
Varsity is harder than I expected. It is not on the same level as high school at all. While I don't struggle with self-discipline, I often get frustrated with people who achieved better grades than me without working as hard as I do (such as not attending class, generally not paying attention to academics, and so on). What am I doing wrong? Are they smarter than me? But think I've been able to adjust to the new system fairly well. Although adjustments to my standards have been employed, I maintain good marks. But this holiday I want to try harder to be prepared for next year. By reading interesting books and such, not only lazing around.
My goal for this holiday: self-improvement. So that, next year, I'll be ready. And I continue on the path to my future.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Matty
A lot has happened in three weeks. The most prominent and obvious event would be the death of my friend Matthew O'Brien. While I was not an extremely close friend of his, many of my friends are. Or were. That's the part that's is difficult to come to terms with: what was and what is, a new reality that was unexpected.
Death is hard to deal with. Not for the person who died obviously, but for those who are left behind afterwards. It is almost impossible to imagine that you will never see or speak to that person ever again. The finality of it is unbearable. Nothing to be done, as Samuel Beckett would say.
Hate to overkill my own experience with death, but it takes over your life for a while. That person pervades what would be normal activities. Music was very prominent in Matty's life: now whenever I hear a song I think he would enjoy, I can't help but think how he'll never be able to share his excellent taste in music with anyone ever again (as he has done with so many people).
My heart aches for his family, girlfriend and close friends (like Judy, Daniel and Adam). I would say I know how it feels, but I don't. I didn't know Matty like you did. I only knew a Matty being nice to one of his friend's girlfriend by not showing me his ass tattoo. That's the glimpse of Matt I'll always remember. And even though he's gone, the memory of him stays in our hearts and minds, reminding us of a blessing in our lives, no matter how seemingly small.
To Matthew O'Bizzle, a unique young man who was and always will be loved.
Death is hard to deal with. Not for the person who died obviously, but for those who are left behind afterwards. It is almost impossible to imagine that you will never see or speak to that person ever again. The finality of it is unbearable. Nothing to be done, as Samuel Beckett would say.
Hate to overkill my own experience with death, but it takes over your life for a while. That person pervades what would be normal activities. Music was very prominent in Matty's life: now whenever I hear a song I think he would enjoy, I can't help but think how he'll never be able to share his excellent taste in music with anyone ever again (as he has done with so many people).
My heart aches for his family, girlfriend and close friends (like Judy, Daniel and Adam). I would say I know how it feels, but I don't. I didn't know Matty like you did. I only knew a Matty being nice to one of his friend's girlfriend by not showing me his ass tattoo. That's the glimpse of Matt I'll always remember. And even though he's gone, the memory of him stays in our hearts and minds, reminding us of a blessing in our lives, no matter how seemingly small.
To Matthew O'Bizzle, a unique young man who was and always will be loved.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Seriously?
So, as everyone should know, recently BlackBerry has been, shall we say squashed (see what I did there?) by a mountain of complaints as BBM and BIS hasn't been functioning. My opinion on the outcry: seriously?
At the risk of sounding righteous; does it really matter if your phone is not working for a little bit?
I have been the owner to many a type of phone, due to muy bad luck with the bloody things. But I am not a BB owner. Which is probably why I don't understand the mass increase in teenage depression.
I understand that when something doesn't work the way it's supposed to, it's super frustrating. But I think you have to know when you're an addict. For example, I am a self-confessed Facebook addict. I think it's good training for my future career as a professional stalker. But I also know that I can handle not being online for a few days. I will be fine.
As I spend my day walking around varsity, glancing at young people rocking back and forth and muttering to themselves because they have nothing to 'lol' at, I wonder about what is really important. I take it as a lesson in priorities, that maybe it's a good idea to stop exercising your thumbs and start exercising your heart and mind to engage with your environment and the people around you.
Because people are better than BlackBerries: they won't stop receiving and sending messages when you need them most.
At the risk of sounding righteous; does it really matter if your phone is not working for a little bit?
I have been the owner to many a type of phone, due to muy bad luck with the bloody things. But I am not a BB owner. Which is probably why I don't understand the mass increase in teenage depression.
I understand that when something doesn't work the way it's supposed to, it's super frustrating. But I think you have to know when you're an addict. For example, I am a self-confessed Facebook addict. I think it's good training for my future career as a professional stalker. But I also know that I can handle not being online for a few days. I will be fine.
As I spend my day walking around varsity, glancing at young people rocking back and forth and muttering to themselves because they have nothing to 'lol' at, I wonder about what is really important. I take it as a lesson in priorities, that maybe it's a good idea to stop exercising your thumbs and start exercising your heart and mind to engage with your environment and the people around you.
Because people are better than BlackBerries: they won't stop receiving and sending messages when you need them most.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Coldplay
Wow. Last night, Coldplay played at the FNB Stadium here in Johannesburg. It was MIND-BLOWING. I can't imagine a better concert and I'm glad that I was able to experience such an amazing event, with my equally-amazing boyfriend.
But, first things first: The Parlotones. A lot of people don't enjoy their music (mostly because of Khan's unusual voice). But I, on the other hand, think they are extremely talented. And while they are not everyone's cup of tea, they have really great stage presence. It's also apt that they were the opening band as they are home-grown Joburgers. They're just tons of fun, even if you can only listen to one song of theirs at a time. I'm proud that South Africa can show off their talent through bands like them. They're obviously doing something right. And let those who have a globally recognised band cast the first stone.
And now for the main event. I spent the concert jamming, listening, snapping photos, staring at the gorgeous Chris Martin, but also coping down the songs they performed! So here it is, the Coldplay Johannesburg 2011 Setlist:
Hurts Like Heaven (second track from their upcoming album, Mylo Xyloto. Had to copy down the lyrics I could make out and Google!)
Yellow
In My Place
Major Minus (eight track from Mylo Xyloto)
Lost!
The Scientist
Shiver
Violet Hill
God Put A Smile Upon Your Face
Paradise (third track and second single from Mylo Xyloto)
The Hardest Part
Till Kingdom Come
Politik
Viva La Vida
Charlie Brown (forth track from MX. Again, copy down lyrics furiously and Google)
Life Is For Living
Encore:
Clocks
Fix You (with intro from Amy Winehouse's Rehab)
Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall (seventh track and first single from MX)
So, tons of incredible songs. I guess when you see a band as spectacular as Coldplay, they're bound to miss some songs you wanted to hear, like Green Eyes, Warning Sign, Life In Technicolour and Strawberry Swing. But my word, their new songs! I cannot wait for the album! I hadn't heard Hurts Like Heaven or Charlie Brown yet; I really enjoyed Charlie Brown, very catchy. The other new songs I had heard but everyone who went knows that hearing Coldplay do a song is not the same as seeing them perform it.
A special mention for the songs would have to be Paradise. I'm not going to say it's my favourite (it's not possible to pick a single favourite song) but what made it special is that Coldplay decided to record it for their music video. So, technically, I'm in Coldplay's new music video! Plus, they put on elephant masks which was really cool. Chris joked that if we remember anything from the concert, he hopes it's not that part because of the funny costumes. So, naturally, it's what I remember.
It was very visually capturing. There were fireworks, tons of lights, beach balls, oversized balloons and (my personal favourite) paper Ms and Xs floating down from the ceiling. The videos they used on the big screens made it really easy to take amazing photos and allowed the face of sexy Chris Martin to be seen at all times, even though we were drowning in a sea of people.
Something to remember on the visual side of things would be Chris leading the crowd in a Mexican wave of cellphone lights all around the stadium three times. It was beautiful, like little twinkling stars. It added immensely to the magical atmosphere.
But I can only say so much; you had to be there. All-in-all, a special night that I will always remember.
But, first things first: The Parlotones. A lot of people don't enjoy their music (mostly because of Khan's unusual voice). But I, on the other hand, think they are extremely talented. And while they are not everyone's cup of tea, they have really great stage presence. It's also apt that they were the opening band as they are home-grown Joburgers. They're just tons of fun, even if you can only listen to one song of theirs at a time. I'm proud that South Africa can show off their talent through bands like them. They're obviously doing something right. And let those who have a globally recognised band cast the first stone.
And now for the main event. I spent the concert jamming, listening, snapping photos, staring at the gorgeous Chris Martin, but also coping down the songs they performed! So here it is, the Coldplay Johannesburg 2011 Setlist:
Hurts Like Heaven (second track from their upcoming album, Mylo Xyloto. Had to copy down the lyrics I could make out and Google!)
Yellow
In My Place
Major Minus (eight track from Mylo Xyloto)
Lost!
The Scientist
Shiver
Violet Hill
God Put A Smile Upon Your Face
Paradise (third track and second single from Mylo Xyloto)
The Hardest Part
Till Kingdom Come
Politik
Viva La Vida
Charlie Brown (forth track from MX. Again, copy down lyrics furiously and Google)
Life Is For Living
Encore:
Clocks
Fix You (with intro from Amy Winehouse's Rehab)
Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall (seventh track and first single from MX)
So, tons of incredible songs. I guess when you see a band as spectacular as Coldplay, they're bound to miss some songs you wanted to hear, like Green Eyes, Warning Sign, Life In Technicolour and Strawberry Swing. But my word, their new songs! I cannot wait for the album! I hadn't heard Hurts Like Heaven or Charlie Brown yet; I really enjoyed Charlie Brown, very catchy. The other new songs I had heard but everyone who went knows that hearing Coldplay do a song is not the same as seeing them perform it.
A special mention for the songs would have to be Paradise. I'm not going to say it's my favourite (it's not possible to pick a single favourite song) but what made it special is that Coldplay decided to record it for their music video. So, technically, I'm in Coldplay's new music video! Plus, they put on elephant masks which was really cool. Chris joked that if we remember anything from the concert, he hopes it's not that part because of the funny costumes. So, naturally, it's what I remember.
It was very visually capturing. There were fireworks, tons of lights, beach balls, oversized balloons and (my personal favourite) paper Ms and Xs floating down from the ceiling. The videos they used on the big screens made it really easy to take amazing photos and allowed the face of sexy Chris Martin to be seen at all times, even though we were drowning in a sea of people.
Something to remember on the visual side of things would be Chris leading the crowd in a Mexican wave of cellphone lights all around the stadium three times. It was beautiful, like little twinkling stars. It added immensely to the magical atmosphere.
But I can only say so much; you had to be there. All-in-all, a special night that I will always remember.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Blissful Badger
So, one of the first things to know about me: I'm a 'PotterHead'.
I know, I know, I'm that person who will sprout random references to that globally beloved piece of literature when the people around me might not give a Hippogriff's ass. I think part of the appeal of Harry Potter for me is that for a long time, I wasn't allowed to read the books. My mom, bless her, is really conservative and maintained the assumption that the books are evil as they 'glorified witchcraft'. I, however, resented her for not giving me the freedom to form my own opinion.
So, when I finally got to my public high school, I spent a year plucking up the courage to take Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone out of my school library. At the age of 14, ten years after the publication of the book, I left the library with the book hidden safely in my bag. I was terrified. I have a very open relationship with my mom but I knew she would disapprove. And I was ashamed that her disapproval was not enough to quell my curiosity.
I read the book in two days. I was hooked. It was such an inspirational story for me. I felt as if I had been friends with the famous trio my whole life. I spent the rest of my high school years reading and watching, waiting for the next book or movie, falling in love with Rowling's creation. I cried after the last book; I couldn't bring myself to believe that it was done, no more Harry Potter.
All that being said, Pottermore has now been released. After suffering mass depression after the end of the seventh movie, I was really excited when I heard about the Pottermore plan. I signed up for early registration and I received my acceptance email on 26 September. The things I was most excited about are obvious: my wand and my House. With a few short questions, I knew both. My wand is Dogwood with Unicorn core, twelve and a quarter inches and slightly springy. I am happy with this. My House on the other hand... I was placed in Hufflepuff.
I was distraught. I know I sound seriously emotional, but I felt like I should be in tears. Just as Harry had thought, "Not Slytherin, not Slytherin..." all I thought while waiting for my House was, "Not Hufflepuff, not Hufflepuff..." And yet, there it was. Yellow and black colouring my screen. I haughtily read the welcome message:
Congratulations! I’m Prefect Gabriel Truman, and I’m delighted to welcome you to HUFFLEPUFF HOUSE. Our emblem is the badger, an animal that is often underestimated, because it lives quietly until attacked, but which, when provoked, can fight off animals much larger than itself, including wolves. Our house colours are yellow and black, and our common room lies one floor below the ground, on the same corridor as the kitchens.
Firstly, I'm not the brightest Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Bean in the jar. So that means Hufflepuff is suited to me. I'm not being down on myself or anything, I just acknowledge that I'm more hard-working than naturally clever. Which is fine with me; all the more satisfaction when I get high marks for the sole reason that I earned them.
While none of the most notable characters are in Hufflepuff, after some research I discovered that Nymphadora Tonks was a Hufflepuff. This makes my opinion of Hufflepuffs far more positive. I've always liked Tonks; with her shape-shifting ways, bubblegum-pink hair and sassy attitude. While she is really quirky, she's also a misfit which means I obviously relate to her (stupid teenage cliches). So if Tonks could be a Hufflepuff, it can't be that bad.
I like the part about being 'trustworthy and loyal'. I think those qualities apply to me and I know I will always protect my loved ones against anyone. I enjoy helping my friends whenever I can, even when it disadvantages me. If that makes me unimportant, so be it. Rather caring than an unfeeling Ravenclaw or an evil Slytherin!
I don't think I could be a Dark Wizard. I just cannot imagine hurting people for self-gain. I think that's a cowardly approach to life and the reason for a lot of violence in the world. I never want to be driven by greed. I would rather be average than immoral. Plus, I'm not very scary.
If Hufflepuff is the friendliest House, it's the one for me. I love making friends; half the people I meet think I belong in St Mungo's but that doesn't matter to me. As long as I get to hug at least five people everyday, things will be okay.
To be honest, I've only ever known the word 'tenacious' in the band Tenacious D. But I looked it up (to be sure):
te·na·ciousSo, tenacious equals determined. Sort of. Darn nuances. Anyway, my drama teacher in primary school always used to say, "Oh, Kristen's great at acting. Only when she wants to though." When I want to do something, you better believe that it's going to be done. It's this kind of attitude that saved me from drowning myself due to Maths in high school. Which is why I remained determined in the thought that there is no way I could be a Hufflepuff.
So, if you're still awake, the main point I'm getting at is that it takes a lot of courage to be honest with yourself. Before I thought about it, I would gladly hide behind the Gryffindor mask of bravery or Ravenclaw intelligence or Slytherin asshole-ness. But the truth is, that's not how life is. If you're a misfit Hufflepuff, that's what you are. As long as you can admit it. So now I'm a proud badger; silly, friendly, weird, hard-working, loyal and determined.
Thus, I close with the words of the Sorting Hat:
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true,
And unafraid of toil.
I know, I know, I'm that person who will sprout random references to that globally beloved piece of literature when the people around me might not give a Hippogriff's ass. I think part of the appeal of Harry Potter for me is that for a long time, I wasn't allowed to read the books. My mom, bless her, is really conservative and maintained the assumption that the books are evil as they 'glorified witchcraft'. I, however, resented her for not giving me the freedom to form my own opinion.
So, when I finally got to my public high school, I spent a year plucking up the courage to take Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone out of my school library. At the age of 14, ten years after the publication of the book, I left the library with the book hidden safely in my bag. I was terrified. I have a very open relationship with my mom but I knew she would disapprove. And I was ashamed that her disapproval was not enough to quell my curiosity.
I read the book in two days. I was hooked. It was such an inspirational story for me. I felt as if I had been friends with the famous trio my whole life. I spent the rest of my high school years reading and watching, waiting for the next book or movie, falling in love with Rowling's creation. I cried after the last book; I couldn't bring myself to believe that it was done, no more Harry Potter.
All that being said, Pottermore has now been released. After suffering mass depression after the end of the seventh movie, I was really excited when I heard about the Pottermore plan. I signed up for early registration and I received my acceptance email on 26 September. The things I was most excited about are obvious: my wand and my House. With a few short questions, I knew both. My wand is Dogwood with Unicorn core, twelve and a quarter inches and slightly springy. I am happy with this. My House on the other hand... I was placed in Hufflepuff.
I was distraught. I know I sound seriously emotional, but I felt like I should be in tears. Just as Harry had thought, "Not Slytherin, not Slytherin..." all I thought while waiting for my House was, "Not Hufflepuff, not Hufflepuff..." And yet, there it was. Yellow and black colouring my screen. I haughtily read the welcome message:
Congratulations! I’m Prefect Gabriel Truman, and I’m delighted to welcome you to HUFFLEPUFF HOUSE. Our emblem is the badger, an animal that is often underestimated, because it lives quietly until attacked, but which, when provoked, can fight off animals much larger than itself, including wolves. Our house colours are yellow and black, and our common room lies one floor below the ground, on the same corridor as the kitchens.
Now, there are a few things you should know about Hufflepuff house. First of all, let’s deal with a perennial myth about the place, which is that we’re the least clever house. WRONG. Hufflepuff is certainly the least boastful house, but we’ve produced just as many brilliant witches and wizards as any other. Want proof? Look up Grogan Stump, one of the most popular Ministers for Magic of all time. He was a Hufflepuff – as were the successful Ministers Artemesia Lufkin and Dugald McPhail. Then there’s the world authority on magical creatures, Newt Scamander; Bridget Wenlock, the famous thirteenth-century Arithmancer who first discovered the magical properties of the number seven, and Hengist of Woodcroft, who founded the all-wizarding village of Hogsmeade, which lies very near Hogwarts School. Hufflepuffs all.
So, as you can see, we’ve produced more than our fair share of powerful, brilliant and daring witches and wizards, but, just because we don’t shout about it, we don’t get the credit we deserve. Ravenclaws, in particular, assume that any outstanding achiever must have come from their house. I got into big trouble during my third year for duelling a Ravenclaw prefect who insisted that Bridget Wenlock had come from his house, not mine. I should have got a week of detentions, but Professor Sprout let me off with a warning and a box of coconut ice.
Hufflepuffs are trustworthy and loyal. We don’t shoot our mouths off, but cross us at your peril; like our emblem, the badger, we will protect ourselves, our friends and our families against all-comers. Nobody intimidates us.
However, it’s true that Hufflepuff is a bit lacking in one area. We’ve produced the fewest Dark wizards of any house in this school. Of course, you’d expect Slytherin to churn out evil-doers, seeing as they’ve never heard of fair play and prefer cheating over hard work any day, but even Gryffindor (the house we get on best with) has produced a few dodgy characters.
What else do you need to know? Oh yes, the entrance to the common room is concealed in a stack of large barrels in a nook on the right hand side of the kitchen corridor. Tap the barrel two from the bottom, middle of the second row, in the rhythm of ‘Helga Hufflepuff’, and the lid will swing open. We are the only house at Hogwarts that also has a repelling device for would-be intruders. If the wrong lid is tapped, or if the rhythm of the tapping is wrong, the illegal entrant is doused in vinegar.
You will hear other houses boast of their security arrangements, but it so happens that in more than a thousand years, the Hufflepuff common room and dormitories have never been seen by outsiders. Like badgers, we know exactly how to lie low – and how to defend ourselves.
Once you’ve opened the barrel, crawl inside and along the passageway behind it, and you will emerge into the cosiest common room of them all. It is round and earthy and low-ceilinged; it always feels sunny, and its circular windows have a view of rippling grass and dandelions.
There is a lot of burnished copper about the place, and many plants, which either hang from the ceiling or sit on the windowsills. Our Head of house, Professor Pomona Sprout, is Head of Herbology, and she brings the most interesting specimens (some of which dance and talk) to decorate our room – one reason why Hufflepuffs are often very good at Herbology. Our overstuffed sofas and chairs are upholstered in yellow and black, and our dormitories are reached through round doors in the walls of the common room. Copper lamps cast a warm light over our four-posters, all of which are covered in patchwork quilts, and copper bed warmers hang on the walls, should you have cold feet.
Our house ghost is the friendliest of them all: the Fat Friar. You’ll recognise him easily enough; he’s plump and wears monk’s robes, and he’s very helpful if you get lost or are in any kind of trouble.
I think that’s nearly everything. I must say, I hope some of you are good Quidditch players. Hufflepuff hasn’t done as well as I’d like in the Quidditch tournament lately.
You should sleep comfortably. We’re protected from storms and wind down in our dormitories; we never have the disturbed nights those in the towers sometimes experience.
And once again: congratulations on becoming a member of the friendliest, most decent and most tenacious house of them all.
I didn't want to believe it, but I saw some of myself in this message. Don't get me wrong, I understand that these kinds of things are relevant to almost everyone. But here's why it's relevant to me:Firstly, I'm not the brightest Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Bean in the jar. So that means Hufflepuff is suited to me. I'm not being down on myself or anything, I just acknowledge that I'm more hard-working than naturally clever. Which is fine with me; all the more satisfaction when I get high marks for the sole reason that I earned them.
While none of the most notable characters are in Hufflepuff, after some research I discovered that Nymphadora Tonks was a Hufflepuff. This makes my opinion of Hufflepuffs far more positive. I've always liked Tonks; with her shape-shifting ways, bubblegum-pink hair and sassy attitude. While she is really quirky, she's also a misfit which means I obviously relate to her (stupid teenage cliches). So if Tonks could be a Hufflepuff, it can't be that bad.
I like the part about being 'trustworthy and loyal'. I think those qualities apply to me and I know I will always protect my loved ones against anyone. I enjoy helping my friends whenever I can, even when it disadvantages me. If that makes me unimportant, so be it. Rather caring than an unfeeling Ravenclaw or an evil Slytherin!
I don't think I could be a Dark Wizard. I just cannot imagine hurting people for self-gain. I think that's a cowardly approach to life and the reason for a lot of violence in the world. I never want to be driven by greed. I would rather be average than immoral. Plus, I'm not very scary.
If Hufflepuff is the friendliest House, it's the one for me. I love making friends; half the people I meet think I belong in St Mungo's but that doesn't matter to me. As long as I get to hug at least five people everyday, things will be okay.
To be honest, I've only ever known the word 'tenacious' in the band Tenacious D. But I looked it up (to be sure):
te·na·cious
adjective /təˈnāSHəs/
- Tending to keep a firm hold of something; clinging or adhering closely
- - a tenacious grip
- Not readily relinquishing a position, principle, or course of action; determined
- - you're tenacious and you get at the truth
- - the most tenacious politician
- Persisting in existence; not easily dispelled
- - a tenacious local legend
So, if you're still awake, the main point I'm getting at is that it takes a lot of courage to be honest with yourself. Before I thought about it, I would gladly hide behind the Gryffindor mask of bravery or Ravenclaw intelligence or Slytherin asshole-ness. But the truth is, that's not how life is. If you're a misfit Hufflepuff, that's what you are. As long as you can admit it. So now I'm a proud badger; silly, friendly, weird, hard-working, loyal and determined.
Thus, I close with the words of the Sorting Hat:
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true,
And unafraid of toil.
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