An obsession is a persistent preoccupation, something that consistently lives in our thoughts. Some obsessions last a lifetime, while others have a shorter lifespan. I admit, sometimes I use the term “obsession” loosely. Don’t we all? I’m obsessed with this TV show. That look you’re wearing? Obsessed.
Obsessions don’t always have to mean some dark, twisted state of mind that keeps us from engaging in reality. They can be positive. Something that brings us joy and profound meaning. Can an obsession be neutral? I haven’t figured that out yet. Maybe the term neutral isn’t the right one here. I think what I mean is I haven’t quite figured out how some obsessions make me feel.
This week I’m trying something new. I’m going to list 5 things that have been living in my mind for the past month. Are they hardcore obsessions? Not necessarily. But they’re in my thoughts, for better or for worse.
This album
I love Feist. I’ve loved her for a long time. I’m embarrassed to admit that I don’t listen to a lot of Canadian musicians. Canadians are greatly influenced by American culture and pop culture, and sadly, my attention is largely focused on what’s happening south of the border. That has to change, because there’s so much talent here. Metals is one of my favourite Feist albums, but this new one, Multitudes, is such a masterpiece. I’ve been listening to it on repeat for the past couple of weeks.
One of the songs that I’ve been listening to often is “Hiding Out In The Open.” The opening lyrics “Everybody’s got their shit/Who’s got the guts to sit with it?” immediately pulled me in. I love sitting with my shit. It’s basically the origin story of this newsletter. I also enjoyed Feist’s interview with Tom Power on CBC’s Q radio show. You can listen to the segment here.
These books
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