00 Reading – Can I be Santiago?

I wish I could say I gained some insight into the networked media course by reading this metaphorical passage. Alas, it presents itself to me as self-indulgent drivel.

 Am I the boat? Am I in the boat? Is the boat my portal to the network of the ocean? Why is the ocean a network?  Why are there so many adjectives?

 After my literal mind considers these questions, I find myself thinking about Hemingway’s ‘the old man and the sea’. One of the most well written texts, I have read to date.

So now I find myself as Santiago pursuing a monster marlin. Driven in life to reach an ultimate goal, risking everything in a courageous effort. Even if it is only for personal satisfaction and no one else recognises your achievements.

I would much rather find myself in this boat than that of the networked media boat. Where I see myself lost with no direction, skimming over everyone’s ideas and struggling to find my own. With the monotonous beat of the waves lapping against the hull, representing my defunct concepts.

I guess I view this passage negatively, as I don’t see being lost as a process of discovery and enlightenment.  I want to set out on this journey with a path and a goal. Otherwise, I can see myself never finding direction in this mastless boat.

 

#istilldonotknowhatthissubjectisabout

#willhavetoreadthecourseguide