Mistborn Book Review:
Okay, so the first installment of this channel is going to be nerdy because well, I’m a geek and I can talk that talk. I just finished the book Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson and it quickly ascended to one of my favorites. Sanderson manages to incorporate themes that tackle real-world problems while balancing them with amazing character development, world-building, and a truly badass magic system. Within my social media rabbit holes, I had seen the cult following behind this book and now I understand why full-heartedly. I am about to start the second book, The Well of Ascension, and have high expectations. I have gained massive trust that Sanderson will deliver just from the one novel I have read of his. A true master of fantasy storytelling. So let’s dive into this video, and we will explore the intricate world-building, unforgettable characters, and powerful themes that make Mistborn a must-read for any fantasy fan. So sit back, grab your favorite bev and snack, and we’ll transport you into the world of Mistborn.
The World of Mistborn
Mistborn is set in a world called Scadrial, which is dominated by the Lord Ruler, a god-like figure who has ruled for a thousand years. The world is divided into two main factions: the nobility and the skaa, a slave class. The magic system in Mistborn is based on the ingestion of metals, which gives Allomancers specific abilities such as enhanced senses, increased strength, and the ability to manipulate emotions. The intricate magic system in Mistborn is one of the standout features of the novel, as it adds a layer of complexity and uniqueness to the world-building. Within this power system, there are those that have no access to it at all but the allomancers that do are either Mistings or Mistborn. Mistings are those that only have the ability to utilize one of the metals. For instance, there are soothers that solely manipulate emotions. One of the standout characters, Breeze, is a master soother who burns brass to dampen the emotions of others so that he can manipulate, or as he would put it, guide them to the resolution he so desires. With this, there are also counterparts to each metal utilizing the opposite effect. So instead of soothing, rioters burn zinc to strengthen the emotions of another. These both are mental metals and their two other brethren are Bronze and Copper. Bronze being seekers that can detect other allomancers and Copper being smokers that can hide from other allomancers. Amongst all metals there is a push and pull. There are also physical metals. Steel burners are Coinshots that push metals, being able to use this as an attack or evasive maneuver. Iron burners are Lurchers that allow them to pull on metals. These both give a telekinetic Spiderman feel, these also raise my questions of why Jedi don’t utilize the force more like this but I’m also not ingratiate enough in Star Wars. Tin burners are tineyes that increase their five senses to a superhuman level. Pewter burners are thugs that enhance their physical abilities like strength, speed, stamina, and so on.
By far the most sought-after and powerful metal introduced is atium. This metal allows you to see slightly into the future and act accordingly. To avoid spoilers I won’t say much more.
Now we get to the mistborn which is where the two main characters fall under. Mistborn are able to burn all metals, thus utilizing all of the pushes and pulls of both the physical and mental making them juggernauts in this world. Sanderson writes this aspect beautifully by building up their power but reminding the characters and readers alike that they are not invincible.
Unforgettable Characters
The characters in Mistborn are richly drawn and unforgettable. The protagonist, Vin, is a young street urchin who discovers she is a Mistborn and has the ability to use Allomancy. Vin is a complex character who struggles with trust issues and a deep-seated fear of being abandoned as up to this point everyone she has let get close to her either abuses or abandons her. This part of the story is when I have most wanted to jump into a book and give a character a hug. She just wants to be loved and needed, man. Kelsier, the leader of the rebellion against the Lord Ruler, is a charismatic and enigmatic figure who becomes a mentor to Vin and honestly more of a father figure and protector. The relationship between Vin and Kelsier is one of the most compelling aspects of the novel, as it explores themes of trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. Vin and Kelsier obviously drive the story but the entire cast is so strong. Sazed and Spook steal the show for me personally. Sazed has such a beautiful outlook on life and he is truly someone I would model my views off of.
Powerful Themes
Mistborn is a novel that grapples with powerful themes such as the nature of power and rebellion. The book explores the idea that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. The Lord Ruler is a character who embodies this theme, as he has become so powerful that he has lost touch with his humanity. The rebellion against the Lord Ruler is also a theme that resonates with many readers, as it explores the idea of fighting against oppression and standing up for what is right. The book also touches on themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption.
Mistborn is a book that has everything a fantasy fan could want: intricate world-building, unforgettable characters, and powerful themes. Sanderson's writing style and structure make the book a joy to read, and the magic system adds a unique layer of complexity to the world-building. Go read it ASAP.
Well of Ascension Book Review:
In today's episode, we'll be delving into the world of epic fantasy with a review of Mistborn: The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson.
For those unfamiliar with the Mistborn series, it's an epic fantasy saga penned by the brilliant Brandon Sanderson. Mistborn: The Well of Ascension is the second installment in this captivating series that has garnered immense praise from readers and critics alike.
Let's dive into the story. In Mistborn: The Well of Ascension, we reunite with our beloved characters and find ourselves embroiled in a world where political intrigue and supernatural powers collide. As the city of Luthadel faces new challenges and threats, our protagonists must navigate a treacherous landscape while trying to unravel the mysteries of the Well of Ascension.
One of the things that truly stands out in Sanderson's writing is his ability to craft a rich and immersive world. His descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of Luthadel, the magic system, and the societal dynamics at play. Speaking of magic, the Allomancy and Feruchemy systems continue to impress with their depth and ingenuity.
Sanderson's writing style, characterized by its seamless blending of action and introspection, keeps the pace of the story engaging throughout. The characters, both new and familiar, undergo significant development and face complex moral dilemmas that make them relatable and human. The interpersonal relationships and the dynamics between the characters are masterfully executed, tugging at our emotions and keeping us invested.
Now, let's talk about the themes and messages present in Mistborn: The Well of Ascension. This novel explores themes of power, responsibility, and the consequences of one's choices. Sanderson delves into the gray areas of morality, highlighting that even the noblest intentions can have unintended consequences.
As for the strengths, Mistborn: The Well of Ascension excels at delivering unpredictable plot twists and surprises that leave readers in awe. The intricate plot, combined with the skillful execution of these twists, keeps you on the edge of your seat. The character relationships, fraught with tension and layered emotions, provide a captivating emotional core to the story. And, of course, the world-building is simply phenomenal, drawing you deeper into this richly imagined universe.
Now, while Mistborn: The Well of Ascension is undeniably a fantastic read, there are a couple of areas that some readers may find less appealing. The pacing can be a bit uneven at times, with certain sections feeling slower than others. Additionally, Sanderson's propensity for providing detailed exposition and world-building information occasionally leads to information overload, which might require a bit of patience from the reader.
Comparing Mistborn: The Well of Ascension to its predecessor, Mistborn: The Final Empire, it's clear that Sanderson has continued to build upon the solid foundation he established in the first book. The story becomes even more intricate, and the stakes are raised to new heights. It's evident that Sanderson has a grand vision for the series as a whole, and this installment contributes significantly to its overall progression.
In conclusion, Mistborn: The Well of Ascension is a worthy successor to the first book, offering an exhilarating journey filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and a meticulously crafted world. I highly recommend this installment to fans of epic fantasy who appreciate intricate plots and immersive storytelling.
That wraps up our review of Mistborn: The Well of Ascension! I'd love to hear your thoughts on this book and the Mistborn series as a whole. Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to our channel for more bookish content, and join in the discussion in the comments below. Until next time, keep reading and exploring new worlds!
Tuesday Healthy and Wealthy Video Scripts
I am going to begin by saying I am not a professional, guru, or anything of the sort. I am only a man that does my best to have a good outlook on life. That being said, here is my current thinking on life and how I care for my overall well-being. I hope this helps someone struggling or gives someone a boost that’s on the right path.
Tuesdays I will be focusing on topics that will help perpetuate positivity in your mental, physical, and financial health. This week’s installment will be about energy and intent. So much of life is dependent on these two factors. Let me give you a small and fun example to start. Think about the different responses dogs give you when you approach them with varying energies and intents. If you approach with fear and uncertainty, they will reflect the same notion. But, in most cases, if you approach with positivity and kindness they repay in exponential dividends. It is the same with your interpersonal relationships. Now these examples are in a vacuum but the lesson can still be carried over no matter what the circumstance is.
Practice engaging your relationships with positive intent and understanding and watch the evolution of your interactions begin to become greater. If there is extra baggage in this relationship that takes more time and effort to unpack then it will take longer to see those payoffs. However, this is not an excuse to say, “Well this is too hard” and not even try. If the relationship is important enough, the work will be too.
The energy you expend or that is taken from you will ultimately be given back when you surround yourself with positive people and engage in beneficial experiences that bring you joy and fulfillment. The inverse of this also exists. So, identify the people and things in your life that are only taking energy from you, leaving you with negative experiences and exhaustion so that you can weed them out.
It is great to talk about this but actually practicing this is more of an endeavor than most will admit. It begins with you. Self-reflecting and identifying the aspects of yourself, your energy, your intent, and how you implement them in your life is a big, yet necessary step to generating the positivity you want out of life.
My mom told me to play life like a game. That being said, life is not something to win or a set of rules to manipulate to get what you want. Instead, think of it as a story that can be broken down into quests that in turn give you experience. You can then use that XP to boost the attributes of the skills you value.
Example: You’re making breakfast. My personal favorite is French toast so that’s what it will be in this story. You’re making French toast and are sitting down to dig in, but your roommate walks in looking gloomy and isn’t saying much. Instead of demolishing that delicious French toast in front of him and not engaging like I know you want to, fix him a plate and offer him the time and space to tell you what’s going on. And right there you gained some interpersonal relationship XP and can boost your generosity and communication attributes.
Keep in mind that I am shooting from the hip here and that’s because I am far from a master of these skills. The sentiment being is to take that step forward and keep carrying that momentum forward.
As I said before, this journey begins with you. Make sure to take the time to identify what you value and what gives you energy versus what takes your energy. You can’t avoid all of the minutiae that life throws your way but there are ways to minimize it. Find the people and things that restore your energy. I’ll throw all of the stereotypes at you because, well they’re stereotypes for a reason. Read a book, join a club that does an activity you enjoy, take a walk, build legos, or compete in underwater basket weaving. If it brings you joy and you ain’t hurting nobody, do it.
I believe most things in life can be broken down into energy and intent. We’re all human and can falter but do your absolute best to try and make all of your energy and intent positive and benevolent. Call your loved ones, live life open and free and take the wounds that come with it because they will seem inconsequential in comparison to the beautiful life you will create.
Wellness Wednesdays
In today’s video, we explore daily practices inspired by Buddhism and the teachings of Carl Jung. Both Buddhism and Jungian psychology offer valuable insights into self-discovery, mindfulness, and personal growth. We'll discuss practical ways to incorporate these teachings into our daily lives for a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
Mindfulness Meditation:
Taking only a few minutes of your day to become grounded and visualize what you want out of your life will make exponential leaps of progress almost immediately. Meditation does not have to be the cartoonish gimmick that it has been depicted for so long, instead, it can be a time to center your energy, work on your breathing and visualize/manifest your dreams and successes. There are varying ways to practice meditation but I would suggest starting with the basics. Either do a quick guided meditation to show you the ropes or just take a few minutes to be alone to observe your thoughts and focus on your breathing. When you’re ready to escalate the experience, seek out a few resources that you believe will help you connect deeper to the experience.
Both Buddhism and Carl Jung emphasized the importance of mindfulness. Take a few minutes each day to sit in silence, focusing on your breath and observing your thoughts without judgment. This practice cultivates self-awareness, and clarity, and helps us connect with the present moment. “You are not your thoughts” has been tricky for me for a while. Because if we are not our thoughts then where do they come from? Much of life is energy and we’re learning more and more about it every day and with that energy, most of life can be affected. So you observe your thoughts without judgment and “not being your thoughts” allows you to take a deeper dive into what influences contributed to those thoughts. It opens a path to the subconscious, bringing you a step closer to becoming a fully conscious being.
Self-Reflection and Journaling:
Engage in self-reflection exercises inspired by Carl Jung's analytical psychology. Set aside time each day to journal about your thoughts, dreams, and emotions. Explore your subconscious, uncover patterns, and gain insights into your inner world. This practice can lead to self-discovery and personal growth. By taking these ideas out of your head and onto paper you have reduced the clutter in your mind, allowing you to focus your energy and creativity on your important tasks. Though Socrates would say this makes the thought static, I’m inclined to say that not all thoughts have to be groundbreaking and to focus your energy and intent on the thoughts that best serve you and others.
Cultivating Compassion:
Buddhism emphasizes compassion towards oneself and others. Practice acts of kindness and compassion daily. Extend forgiveness, help those in need, and treat others with empathy and understanding. This practice not only benefits others but also nurtures your own sense of interconnectedness and well-being. It is so easy to give into emotions like anger, jealousy, and lust but when those are moved out of the rotation in place for gratitude, kindness, and compassion you will see the once narrow pathways expand, and with it comes joy, opportunity, and positivity.
Embracing Shadow Work:
Jungian psychology introduced the concept of the "shadow," representing our repressed or unconscious aspects. Engage in shadow work by exploring your hidden beliefs, fears, and desires. Embrace and integrate these aspects of yourself, fostering self-acceptance and a deeper understanding of your true nature. Though there is the aspect of “taming the monster within” the practice of shadow work is to seek out what has been neglected within your mind. Shadow work, at least for me, has been identifying the aspects of my mind and personality that I don’t understand why they are there. I then begin to trace the root of where I think the origin may be and then not search for validation of my thoughts but understand the environment and responses that created that aspect of my personality and mind.
Detachment from Ego:
Both Buddhism and Jungian psychology emphasize the importance of transcending the ego. Practice detachment from your ego-driven desires and attachments. Cultivate non-attachment by letting go of rigid expectations and embracing impermanence. This practice allows for greater inner freedom and a more harmonious relationship with the world. The ego is to the conscious what the shadow is to the subconscious…essentially. Work on displacing your ego so that it can stop being the dam to your river.
Cultivating Gratitude:
Express gratitude daily for the blessings in your life. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you appreciate and are grateful for. This practice shifts your focus towards positivity, fostering contentment, and increasing overall well-being. By being grateful for what you do have, you become less envious of the things you don’t have. It’s making the initial sacrifice that will ultimately pay you out way more throughout life.
Incorporating daily practices inspired by Buddhism and the teachings of Carl Jung can bring about profound positive changes in our lives. Mindfulness meditation, self-reflection, compassion, shadow work, detachment from ego, and gratitude are all powerful tools for personal growth and self-discovery. By embracing these practices, we can cultivate inner peace, develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, and live more fulfilling lives. It can also not be forgotten that we are doing the work on ourselves to be able to contribute to the greater collective of mankind.
Thank you for watching, if you like this video format and want to make videos like it for yourselves click the link below for Pictory. Also to support me and this channel check out my digital art store on Etsy, also the link below. I'll see you in the next video.
Thumping Thursdays
Music is one of my favorite aspects of life. I have recently dove into how different frequencies can physically, mentally, and emotionally alter a person. Have you ever asked the question, why do sad people listen to sad music? Why wouldn’t they listen to something uplifting to get them out of their sadness? It may seem backward at first but when people do this, they are looking for understanding. Hearing someone resonate with how you feel is much more effective than somebody coming at you with the polar opposite of your current state. Sad people listening to sad music is a good start to let them feel their emotions, come to terms with them but then transition.
When we listen to music, it activates the pleasure centers in our brain, releasing dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that makes us feel happy and relaxed. Music can also reduce stress and anxiety by slowing down our heart rate and breathing and lowering our levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. This is only true for songs that you find pleasant. Songs that are irritating to you will actually raise your cortisol levels, and in turn, raise your stress.
But it's not just our brains that benefit from music. Music can also have a positive effect on our physical health. Research has shown that music can improve our immune system function, lower blood pressure, and reduce pain and inflammation. Music has been shown to be able to negate fatigue and pain so that you can push through your lift, run, and so on.
Another way that music can positively affect the body is through its ability to improve our sleep quality. Listening to calming music before bed can help us relax and fall asleep faster, leading to better quality sleep and improved overall health.
Delta waves have a frequency of 0.5 to 4 Hz and are associated with deep sleep. They are believed to promote physical healing and help the body recover from the stresses of the day.
Theta waves have a frequency of 4 to 8 Hz and are associated with light sleep, relaxation, and dreaming. They are believed to help reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall sleep quality.
Alpha waves have a frequency of 8 to 12 Hz and are associated with a relaxed but alert state. They are believed to help calm the mind and promote a state of relaxation, which can lead to better sleep.
Beta waves have a frequency of 12 to 30 Hz and are associated with an alert and active state. They are not typically associated with sleep, but some research has suggested that listening to beta wave frequencies during the day may help improve sleep quality at night.
And the best part is that music doesn't have to be a passive experience. Engaging in activities such as singing or playing an instrument can also have significant benefits for our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that singing can improve our mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety while playing an instrument can improve our cognitive function and coordination. Studies have also shown that engaging in music actually helps create more neural pathways between both hemispheres of the brain. Resulting in becoming more creative problem solvers.
With all of this known, here are three of my favorite songs. First is an all-time favorite of mine and gives me that tingly sensation down my spine when I hear it. R.I.P. SCREW by Travis Scott is one of many on the ASTROWORLD album that creates an atmosphere that feels like I have been transported to his musical dimension. One of my current favorites is Sound & Color by Alabama Shakes. This song gives me the exact feeling of when you first start dating someone and you are completely caught up in their essence and wrapped in the honeymoon stage. Next, is an all-time classic. Gimme Shelter by The Rolling Stones is a consistent culprit of giving listeners the chills. The combination of the haunting vocals and instrument ensemble makes this a master class of song-making.