Over the course of my undergraduate studies, I’ve come to understand that in order to write well, a person needs to read A LOT. So, as I’ve been writing my blog over the past several months, I’ve found myself consuming a lot more online content. Often, I read an article or watch a video in order to inform myself properly before writing about a certain topic. Similarly, I often read people’s works in search of inspiration (both in writing and design). While a lot of the content found online is forgettable, sometimes I stumble upon something that makes me stop and think, “Wow, the whole world needs to read this!”
That’s how “Internet Spotlight” was born. In these posts, you’ll find a roundup of recent online content that’s blown me away for one reason or another. I’m planning on covering a wide range of pieces, so I hope there’s something for everyone!
Note: In light of our current global crisis, some of the following content has been spotlighted for the purpose of sharing reliable information regarding COVID-19. There’s too much misinformation online right now. If you feel that this content may cause you anxiety, I encourage you to read with discretion.
“How the Pandemic Will End” by Ed Young — The Atlantic
Publication Date: March 25, 2020
Standout Quote: “When an administration prevaricates on climate change, the effects won’t be felt for years, and even then will be hard to parse. It’s different when a president says that everyone can get a test, and one day later, everyone cannot. Pandemics are democratizing experiences. People whose privilege and power would normally shield them from a crisis are facing quarantines, testing positive, and losing loved ones.”
Thoughts: Ed Young’s article has been making rounds all over social media since its publication. Having been shared by the likes of Barack Obama, the piece is simply the most comprehensive COVID-19 related article that I’ve read in the past several weeks. Young emphasizes the importance of producing tests, manufacturing medical equipment, and practicing social distancing by describing catastrophic consequences that aren’t outside the realm of possibility. Young also highlights what the world may look like–for both better and worse–after COVID-19 has passed us. One thing is for certain: this is a turning point in history. It is likely that we will one day think about our timelines as pre- and post-COVID-19 similar to how we view world-altering events such as WWII and 9/11.
“That Discomfort You’re Feeling is Grief” by Scott Berinato — Harvard Business Review
Publication Date: March 23, 2020
Standout Quote: “The loss of normalcy; the fear of economic toll; the loss of connection. This is hitting us and we’re grieving. Collectively. We are not used to this kind of collective grief in the air.”
Thoughts: It’s safe to say that most of us haven’t really been through anything like the pandemic we’re currently facing. It’s confusing, to say the least. Scott Berinato of Harvard Business Review sits down with David Kessler– founder of Grief.com and former member of the Red Cross’s disaster services team. In the interview, Kessler attempts to categorize and describe the feelings many of us are experiencing right now. Berinato and Kessler also discuss healthy methods for managing our emotions and bringing our minds ease. After reading this piece, I felt more in tune with my own emotions and felt a sense of solidarity knowing that these feelings aren’t exclusive to me.
“It’s a Perfect Time to Play Video Games. And You Shouldn’t Feel Bad About It.” by Peter Suderman — The New York Times
Publication Date: March 23, 2020
Standout Quote: “If you’re not a gamer, you might think of video games as simple time-wasters. […] But games are more than just empty time-wasters. In periods of pain, boredom or personal emptiness, video games can serve as palliative care for both the body and the mind.”
Thoughts: As a life-long lover of video games, I haven’t quite seen so many people flocking to the medium as I have in the past several weeks. In his article, Suderman explains exactly why — video games give us a sense of accomplishment, allow us to escape the confines of our homes, and provide us with social spaces. The author’s description of a past hardship, specific game suggestions, and accessible writing all culminate in a piece that is heartfelt and thought-provoking. I am reminded exactly how important video games can be for many of us during times of difficulty.
“Dua Lipa’s Hopeful Future Nostalgia is Dance-pop Brilliance” by Alex Abad-Santos — Vox
Publication Date: March 28, 2020
Standout Quote: “The pandemic’s human toll has stopped the economy in its tracks and turned the entertainment industry into purgatory. Movie theaters have shut down, and studios have pushed would-be billion-dollar blockbusters into an indefinite holding pattern. Broadway shut down. […] Art is an escape in times like these, and access to much of it has been sealed shut. But the electropop star Dua Lipa did the opposite: She opened up her music to the world.”
Thoughts: Outside of a couple of tracks, I really love Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia — it’s littered with occasional, subtle sounds that remind me of 80s songs and electronic music such as Daft Punk’s, while also pushing forward contemporary pop. So, I definitely agree with the author’s opinion, but that’s not why I’m highlighting this article! I’m doing so because Abad-Santos starts his piece with a vivid description of his COVID-19-induced anxiety and then seamlessly transitions into his review of the record. When I first started reading the review, I wasn’t expecting to be met with vivid imagery of Elmhurst Hospital. I even hit the back button to make sure I clicked the right link. As I continued reading, however, I was impressed by the author’s seemingly effortless melding of the two subjects. By approaching his piece this way, Abad-Santos laid down the context for why he felt that this album was so significant. I felt a sense of connection to the author that I haven’t felt in many product reviews and gained a greater sense of appreciation for art as an outlet during our current crisis.
And to end on a non-pandemic related note…
“A 2019 Comparison of Todd Gurley and Devonta Freeman” by Adnan Ikic — The Falcoholic
Publication Date: March 21, 2020
Standout Quote: “The arthritis in his knees is very prevalent and keeping the former University of Georgia standout on the field should be a top priority. […] Health is the major question mark here. But without that question mark Gurley wouldn’t be in Atlanta in the first place.”
Thoughts: As a life-long Atlanta Falcons fanatic who also has the University of Georgia running through his veins, I have to say that I was bouncing off the walls when I woke up to the news that the Falcons had signed former UGA great Todd Gurley. As someone pretty tuned into sports, I was well aware of the Gurley’s chronic knee condition, but in that moment it didn’t matter. The Falcons finally had a running back from “Running Back University” and I was overcome with thoughts of owning that jersey. When I finally came back down to earth, I decided to do some research regarding Gurley’s health and how much of a positive impact he would have on the Falcons. Ikic’s article sums it up expertly, using detailed statistics throughout. The article makes no concessions, as the author discusses Gurley’s and former-Falcon Devonta Freeman’s 2019 yardages, first downs, touchdowns, blocking grades, and team circumstances. Honestly, some of the statistics were so detailed that they went over my head, but color me impressed.
Stay tuned for the next one. Happy reading!
— Muhammad
So good!!