The Power of Remembrance: Exploring Life, Love, and the Inevitability of Being Forgotten
In Conversation with Elijah A. Bland No. 08
There's something powerfully raw about tracing back the roots of inspiration. Recently, I sat down with E. A. Bland, creator of the poem "Remember," and what unfolded was a journey both profound and deeply personal. Stemming from a childhood awakening to the harsh realities of revisionist history, the poem speaks of legacy, identity, and the importance of memory.
As we delved deeper, it became clear that this wasn't just about a poem. It's about the art of writing, the weight of legacy, and the eternal dance between our past and our future. Through movies like "Coco" and "John Wick", we discussed the poignant idea of being remembered and the choices that determine our legacies.
From this spirited conversation, a clear message surfaced: Our narratives, whether penned down or captured in fleeting moments, hold immense power. They shape our identity, our legacy, and how we interact with the world. And whether through ink or pixels, the essence is to chronicle, embrace, and share our unique journey with the world.
Join us as we navigate the inspiring story behind "Remember", its creation, its message, and its place in a world increasingly seeking connection and authenticity.
Remember
The most difficult traditions exist in abundance.
To feel.
To love.
To lose.
Write everyday
with humble sincerity
your mind, beliefs,
sorrows, and desires;
your untold dreams.
Express yourself.
Remember.
Alison: Thank you for sharing "Remember" with me. It's a deeply evocative piece that touches on the profound emotions and experiences that shape our lives.
"The most difficult traditions exist in abundance."
This is a striking opening line. Can you expand on what inspired this line, and how it sets the tone for the rest of the poem?
Elijah: During my exploration of "Ancient Art and Rituals" by Jane Ellen Harrison, I was captivated by the profound links between art, rituals, and the evolution of our culture. This study inadvertently shaped my thoughts as I penned a poem. Through this process, I recognized that even the journey of discovering love can mirror time-honored rituals or traditions. My writing serves as both a recognition of this pattern and a gentle warning: If we don’t pause to understand the rituals and traditions we embrace, we risk perpetuating harmful stereotypes and beliefs.
Alison: It's fascinating to see the influence of anthropological literature on your poetic expressions. The link between traditions, rituals, and emotions, especially as it pertains to love, is both timeless and universal.
The act of writing is a central theme in this poem, much like in "Nature". Here, you emphasize writing "with humble sincerity." How do you perceive the relationship between sincerity, humility, and the act of writing, especially in the context of cultural self-awareness and challenging potentially harmful traditions?
Elijah: Each of us navigates a unique journey through the tangible world around us. Every day, we decode countless signals, reinforcing or challenging our perspectives, which in turn guide our choices and actions. To assume we can outwit the foundational truths of reality, consciousness, or universal laws seems misguided. Thus, we should face life with "humble sincerity," and writing is no exception.
Reflecting on the annals of literature, I believe enduring texts that continue to shape our culture resonate because they touch on universal truths, albeit artistically. Yet, every written word is open to interpretation. History has witnessed disparities between those who could not only read and critically reflect on these texts but, crucially, pen them, and those who couldn't.
Writing carries immense power and responsibility, aiming to faithfully depict both personal and shared experiences, influencing our world's trajectory. Recognizing its magnitude, when we approach writing with "humble sincerity," we unlock the truths, wisdom, grace, and understanding that unites us, steering us toward a harmonious and prosperous future.
Before, After, and Beyond
Alison: The depth and clarity with which you've shared your perspective on the power of writing and its deep-rooted connection to the human experience is commendable. Writing, as a conduit of communication, thought, and culture, holds unparalleled influence in shaping both personal and collective narratives.
The poem concludes with the poignant word, "Remember." Considering the themes of rituals, traditions, emotions, and writing, what significance does the act of remembering hold in this poem? And how does it tie into your overarching message of challenging and reflecting upon potentially harmful traditions and beliefs?
Elijah: I'll do my best to capture my thoughts in three parts.
Part 1: The Book of Life
Since my earliest memories, I've grappled with an unsettling thought: the possibility of not only departing this world alone but leaving without a trace or remembrance of my existence or my modest role in this vast reality. While I've largely reconciled with this potential fate, its shadow occasionally re-emerges. If I were to trace its origin, it likely began during a Bible study session at age 14, centered on the concept of Judgment Day and God's "Book of Life".
The Hebrew Bible denotes the Book of Life as a testament of individuals deemed virtuous in God's eyes. Exclusion from this sacred record equates to demise, while inclusion guarantees life during the final reckoning. Intriguingly, the fates of souls, even before their birth, are preordained within its pages.
Always curious about the psychological interplay and ramifications in our tangible world, my questions around the symbolic "Book of Life" and the historical tendency to omit or "revise" inconvenient truths from records led to my expulsion from the group. Accused of "doubting God," I was confronted with: "Who are we to challenge God's decree, in heaven or on earth?"
This encounter has forever etched itself in my memory. It raises concerns about our ability to erase one's significance, be it through a mere pen stroke, a suppressed tweet, or the broader specter of cancel culture, all based on perceived "righteousness."
Alison: Your reflection thus far is deeply personal and thought-provoking. It's clear that "Remember" carries a significant weight for you, especially as it ties into your personal experiences and your ongoing exploration of identity, memory, and the power dynamics inherent in who gets to control narratives. Please continue.
Part 2: “Remember Me”
Elijah: At the age of 18, while preparing for my G.E.D., I penned an essay titled "Famously Dead or Deadly Famous: How Do You Want To Be Remembered?" My effort was rewarded with a stellar 5-star grade. However, alongside the accolade, my teacher, whom I'll refer to as Mr. E, offered a poignant caution. Paraphrasing his words:
"Awakening minds from the chains of conformity is an ambitious and sometimes perilous endeavor. Your writing brims with vigor and fervor. Yet, remember, many luminaries have been silenced for less, given that 'The pen is mightier than the sword'. Keep writing."
Mr. E's counsel has been a constant companion over the years. In his feedback, I discerned two vital truths:
My youthful inquisitiveness wasn't misplaced, and under different circumstances, life could have taken a more treacherous path. The realm of writing holds immense power, a force that demands judicious use.
Recalling our origins, embracing both our achievements and failures, shapes our path forward and that of subsequent generations. In a way, the act of reminiscence, heeding the stories and lessons of our predecessors, bestows upon them a form of immortality.
Years later, while watching "Coco" (a film I hold dear) with my daughter who’s also part Mexican, one scene moved me deeply. Hector - who spends the entire film trying to be remembered so he can visit and see his daughter one last time - witnessing a dear friend vanish from the spirit world, imparts to Miguel,
"He’s been forgotten. When there’s no one left in the living world who remembers you, you disappear from this world. We call it the final death.” - Hector, Coco, 2017, Pixar
Alison: Your introspection is as captivating as it is profound. The personal connection to the power of remembrance, and its implications for identity, legacy, and our connection to future generations, shines through strongly in your words. "Coco" and its themes about the importance of memory and familial connections is a poignant illustration of your thoughts. I'm eager to hear the continuation and conclusion in part 3.
Part 3: A Loving Father
Elijah: Delving into my beloved movie franchise from the past decade, "John Wick" starring Keanu Reeves, provides an insightful exploration of treacherous traditions, rituals, and the undeniable pull of "rules and consequences". Let's focus on two pivotal scenes.
But first, a spoiler warning for those who haven't indulged in these cinematic masterpieces yet. If you haven't, I must fervently ask, why?? Hurry and experience them! Ruuuunnnn!
The first scene unfolds towards the climax of a dialogue in "John Wick: Chapter 3" (2019) between our title character and Winston, the Continental Hotel's astute manager. The depth of their almost familial relationship, though never expansively elaborated upon, is palpable. Facing ex-communicado for a lethal act within the hotel's premises, John's journey throughout the film is a fierce struggle for survival, all to honor the memory of his late wife and their shared love. At a critical juncture, Winston, with John possessing the power to spare his life, poses a soul-searching query:
"The real question is, who do you wish to die as?" Winston asked him. "The Baba Yaga? The last thing many men ever see. Or as a man, who loves and is loved by his wife. Who do you wish to die as, Jonathan?"
Fast-forwarding to "John Wick: Chapter 4" (2023), amidst John's contemplation of the loss of the Continental's trusty concierge and ally, Charon, he finds clarity. Expressing his epitaph preference, he simply states:
"John Wick. A Loving Husband."
This revelation, so profound in its simplicity, moved me profoundly. Tears welled up (mirroring my current emotion). It encapsulated John's tumultuous life journey, his treasured moments with his wife, and his choice, even amidst chaos, to manifest love, mercy, grace, kindness, friendship, and loyalty; the very essence of "righteousness", even when life was at stake. John wasn’t just a man who experienced love and loss; he was, and remains, a man "who loves".
Echoing this sentiment, my desired epitaph is "A Loving Father". My publication, 'The Year I Became', isn't merely an outlet for my written expressions to satisfy personal vanity. It's a testament, a legacy chronicling my life, passions, and histories, destined for my daughter and future generations. A beacon, reminding them of their roots, their boundless potential when fueled by dedication and wisdom. The act of "remembering" is multifaceted, often manifested through rituals, traditions, heritage, and culture handed down through ages. And among these mediums, the written word stands tall as a formidable force.
Alison: Thank you, Elijah, for sharing this incredibly heartfelt journey of reflection, remembrance, and legacy. The interweaving of personal experiences, cultural references, and cinematic scenes makes for a compelling narrative, and it's evident that these pieces of media deeply resonate with you, echoing your sentiments on life, love, remembrance, and the legacy one wishes to leave behind.
Your reflection on "John Wick" and his quest for identity, reconciliation, and ultimately his desired remembrance is potent. It underscores a universal yearning to be remembered not for our worst actions or moments of desperation, but for our capacity to love, to be humane, and to be cherished by those dear to us.
The closing note, about "The Year I Became" being more than just a creative outlet, but a chronicle for your daughter and future generations, further underscores the poem's theme. It brings to mind the proverb,
"We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children."
What you're creating isn't just for you, but it's a testament to the lineage, the lessons, and the love you want to pass on.
You've painted a rich tapestry of what it means to remember, to be remembered, and how it interplays with our sense of identity, belonging, and legacy. I can only imagine the profound impact your words and thoughts will have on readers and, more personally, your family.
Thoughts On the Creative Process
Alison: Your poem, "Remember," as well as the narrative you've shared from your life, emphasize the weight of remembrance and the yearning to be remembered in a certain light. This sentiment echoes in many cultural and historical contexts, from sacred scriptures to modern cinema.
How do you think this universal theme of remembrance can be translated into daily practices for individuals? How can one live a life that is not just about being remembered, but about consciously creating memories for others?
Elijah: Fantastic question! First and foremost, embracing failure is key. You've got to be ready for setbacks, occasional mockery, and challenges that stretch you thin. By doing so, you dismantle any self-set barriers, propelling yourself towards creating a lasting legacy. But let's ground this in reality.
Perhaps writing isn't your forte. Maybe your heart sings for photography, or culinary arts, or maybe you find joy in solving the NYT crossword while juggling rocket science calculations and attending your child's baseball games.
The essence lies in immersing yourself fully in the vast expanse of the world around you. Engage all your senses to their maximum, reflect on those experiences, and generously share your learnings. When I find myself at crossroads, I often revisit this illuminating guide titled "How To Be An Explorer of the World" by Keri Smith:
Always be looking. (notice the ground beneath your feet): Whether it’s the intricate patterns on the pavement or the rustling leaves above, there’s always something worth noticing.
Consider everything alive and animate: From a swaying branch to a bustling crowd, everything has a rhythm and story.
Everything is interesting. Look closer: The most mundane object can become fascinating upon a closer look.
Alter the course often: Walk a different route, or simply change your viewpoint; it can alter your entire understanding.
Observe for long durations (and short ones): Sometimes a brief glance captures the essence, other times it requires prolonged contemplation.
Notice the stories going on around you: Be it an overheard conversation or a bird’s flight pattern, narratives are everywhere.
Notice patterns. Make connections: Like linking a cloud’s shape to a memory, find relationships in what you observe.
Document your findings (field notes) in a variety of ways: Whether it’s a sketch, a note, or a photograph, capture your insights.
Incorporate indeterminacy: Life is unpredictable; find joy in the randomness.
Observe movement: From the trajectory of a falling leaf to bustling city traffic, movement tells a story.
Create a personal dialogue with your environment. Talk to it: Instead of just observing, interact. Ask questions, even if it’s just in your mind.
Trace things back to their origins: Understand the ‘why’ behind things. Why does that river flow that way? What’s the history of that old building?
Use all of the sense in your investigations: The scent of rain, the texture of bark, or the distant hum of traffic – there’s more to observe than just sights.
Embrace these practices, and you’re on a path of richer experiences and discoveries.
Alison: It's inspiring to see how you've taken the universal theme of remembrance and expanded upon it in such a relatable and actionable way. The list by Keri Smith reinforces the idea that remembrance isn't just about being noticed or leaving a mark but is more about active engagement with the world. It emphasizes the role of observation, reflection, and interaction in our daily lives, which in turn shapes the memories we create and leave behind.
As you mentioned, not everyone may find solace or expression in writing. But everyone has their own medium, their own way of connecting with the world, and creating memories. How do you suggest people identify their unique medium of expression? And once they do, how can they ensure they're using it to its fullest potential, not just for themselves but for the greater community?
Elijah: Well to shed light on this, let's reference "Show Your Work" by Austin Kleon. As previously discussed, Kleon opened my eyes to Blackout Poetry and the expansive realm of Found Poetry during an interview. Here are some key takeaways from his insights:
You Don’t Have to Be a Genius: Embrace being a "scenius," which means being part of a scene. Great ideas are often the result of many people contributing, rather than a single genius working in isolation.
Share Something Small Every Day: Instead of waiting for the perfect moment to unveil big projects, share little bits of your process or work every day. This could be through social media, a blog, or other platforms.
Open Up Your Cabinet of Curiosities: Share your inspirations and what you're passionate about, not just the work you produce.
Tell Good Stories: Your work will be better received and understood if you can tell the story behind it.
Teach What You Know: By teaching others, you position yourself as an expert, and you also learn more about your own craft.
Learn to Take a Punch: Not everyone will love what you do. Learn to take criticism and move on.
Stick Around: Stay dedicated, keep producing, and don’t give up just because you don’t see immediate results.
Alison: This is an impactful collection of insights. Austin Kleon's advice truly emphasizes the idea that creativity isn't solely a solitary venture. It's a dialogue — an ongoing conversation between the creator, their community, their inspirations, and even their detractors. The interconnectedness of these elements shapes the journey of a creator.
While Austin Kleon stresses the importance of sharing and interaction, there can be a fine line between being influenced by others and unintentionally replicating their work. How do you strike a balance between drawing inspiration and maintaining originality? And in your own journey, how do you navigate the waters of inspiration to ensure your voice remains unique amidst the cacophony of influences?
Elijah: In my own journey I’ve found the best way for to keep a unique perspective and voice is not to just consume my inspirations work, but study it! Asks questions like:
Why does this move me/or not?
How does it compare to their previous work?
Is there a thread connecting all their work together that’s not as prominent?
How does through-line compare or contrast my own journey and work?
Can I summarize that essence in my own words?
With this new summary how can I expound on creating something new in my own words and image?
And then repeat the process again and again until I’m within 80-85% “completion” allowing room for further improvement, or exploration, and insights.
What Matters Most
Alison: That's a wonderfully introspective and iterative approach to understanding and internalizing inspiration. By diving deep and engaging critically with the material, you're not just passively consuming, but actively interacting with it. This deep study helps ensure that what you create is a reflection of both your own unique voice and the inspirations you've absorbed.
Many creatives often cite a tension between commercial success and artistic integrity. Have you ever faced such a dilemma in your journey? How do you navigate the pressures of producing for an audience or market, while staying true to your artistic vision and voice?
Elijah: Over the years, my anxieties have lessened in that regard. Do I dream of sustaining myself through the quality of my art? Definitely. But its success lies in the genuine value I offer, both tangible and perceived. To achieve this, I not only have to present my work but also understand its worth. However, it's not about the monetary gain; it's the freedom to endlessly innovate and discover. You know?
A case in point: in 2020, I also delved into sewing, mostly self-taught via old textbooks, and additionally guided by online courses. Excitedly, I shared my progress with my mother, knowing her penchant for such crafts. Inspired, she embraced sewing using the same courses and soon surpassed me. Now, after three years, she's crafted almost an entirely new wardrobe. The real treasure isn't just the money she's saved; it's the invaluable skills she's acquired along the way.
Alison: Absolutely, your perspective makes perfect sense. True value doesn't always equate to monetary gain. Sometimes, the real value lies in the experiences, the learning, the joy of creation, and the impact your work has on others. It's wonderful how your foray into sewing had such a profound effect on your mother and reignited her passion. Artistic expression can often ripple outwards, inspiring and motivating others in ways we can't always anticipate.
Given the ever-evolving nature of the digital age, how do you think technology has impacted your art and the way you share it? Have you found it easier to connect with like-minded individuals or has it, in some ways, diluted the personal touch of your craft?
Elijah: From a young age, I've always been eager to embrace new technologies and strategies. Diving in headfirst allows me to grasp their full scope, rather than merely accepting someone else's perspective. The inquisitive 14-year-old within me? Still very much alive and kicking. However, when it comes to relationships, the story shifts.
Historically, I've been encircled by risk-averse individuals, at times, stunting my creative aspirations and the courage to showcase my work. And I mean no discredit or offense, those are the facts. As you’ve probably guessed, I’m more than enough “trouble” for some. Ha. Over time, my circle might have narrowed to a single confidante, but with today's ever-evolving digital platforms, I'm beginning to discover my true tribe.
Alison: That's a powerful realization. The digital age has, in many ways, democratized art and creative expression. Platforms like social media, online communities, and collaborative tools have made it easier than ever to find your tribe, to connect with those who resonate with your voice and vision.
As your circle has shrunk and you start to find your community online, how do you ensure that you maintain genuine, authentic connections? How do you navigate the balance between maintaining privacy and being vulnerable in your work and interactions?
Elijah: Well navigating today's digital landscape initially posed a challenge, finding the right place that catered to my voice and style. I mean, we’re clearly not in the MySpace vs Facebook days anymore. Recognizing the reality that genuine safe havens are scarce online—unless conversations are meticulously curated to the point of sterility—was essential. So, the allure of potential real-world connections compelled me to consider group meetups. While I'm cautious not to let online interactions consume me, they've undeniably become a gateway to forming meaningful bonds.
Alison: Well said. In the vastness of the digital landscape, there's an inherent need for discernment and a delicate balance between openness and caution. Physical interactions, face-to-face meetups, and shared experiences can indeed cement the bonds initially formed online, but there's also a richness to be found in online connections themselves, especially when approached with authenticity.
Remember
Alison: In your poem "Remember," you delve deeply into the concepts of legacy, identity, and the power of shared stories and memories. As the digital world continues to evolve, how do you envision integrating the essence of your poem into your digital interactions to ensure that the themes of remembrance and genuine connection remain at the forefront of your online experience and identity? How do you hope to inspire others to cherish and uphold the importance of these themes in their own digital journeys?
Elijah: For me it goes back to the second half of my poem:
Write everyday
with humble sincerity
your mind, beliefs,
sorrows, and desires;
your untold dreams.
Express yourself.
Remember.
By embracing today's technology, we pave the way for unparalleled opportunities in growth, creativity, and connection, spanning both the present and the future. Currently, my focus is on writing and fostering connections with fellow writers and readers in the digital realm. Yet, I'm keen on transitioning to tangible experiences, with plans to launch in-person writing workshops in 2024. This endeavor will integrate both current and forthcoming technologies to craft uniquely personal experiences.
Whether you lean towards traditional or digital methods, the endgame remains: documentation to cherish memories and foster self-growth. See it as a canvas to sketch your evolving traditions and rituals.
Alison: Your reflection on the essence of "Remember" demonstrates an acute awareness of the balance between modernity and tradition, digital and analog, individuality and community. By emphasizing the importance of self-expression and documentation, you're highlighting the enduring power of the human story, no matter the medium or method.
Your mention of leveraging both current and emerging technologies as a means of self-expression and connection is particularly insightful. In a world where digital interactions can sometimes feel fleeting and insubstantial, your commitment to integrating the depth and substance of "Remember" into your online and offline experiences is admirable. The goal of documentation as a means of introspection and growth is, in itself, a powerful message to convey.
The blend of traditional practices, like in-person workshops, with the benefits of digital platforms can serve as a template for others seeking a similar balance. By weaving your core message of remembrance into both realms, you're setting a precedent for how we can harmoniously incorporate our past, present, and future to form a cohesive narrative of personal evolution. Thank you for sharing.