Bookshelf
This page is called “bookshelf”, but there are more than just books here. This is a selection of some of my favorite media: four representatives each from books, movies, and games. These works have all influenced me in their own ways, and this page is my way of honoring them. If any of these works spoke to you like they did me, I’d love to chat!
Books
Moby-Dick
I mean, come on. Look at my name. Look at the headline of this website. Did you really think this wouldn't be the first entry? An amazing meditation on life and meaning through the medium of a revenge story.
Gravity's Rainbow
Absolutely insane book. Nothing I write here can even come close to describing what this book is about, but it rewired my brain completely.
Labyrinths
Borges's encyclopedic knowledge of philosophy and history imbues every single story in this collection with a mysterious, hypnotizing aura. It's hard to pick out favorites, but a few standouts would have to be "The Lottery in Babylon", "Three Versions of Judas", and "The Immortal".
The Crossing
Although Blood Meridian might be his masterpiece, The Crossing is probably the Cormac McCarthy work that most resonates with me. The notion of a lone journey across the American West and Mexico littered with profound chance conversations with strangers makes me dream of doing an American West roadtrip of my own.
Movies
In the Mood for Love
A beautiful movie, both in story and in aesthetics. The music, performances, and cinematography all come together to create a bittersweet and reflective experience.
Angel's Egg
Slow, strange, and almost incomprehensible, but profoundly affecting nonetheless. The images are haunting yet mesmerizing, and I connect with a different aspect of the film on every watch.
La Haine
As stylish as it is heartbreaking. Despite taking place in a very different setting from my own, this movie somehow faithfully captures the spirit of the young adult experience in an uncertain world.
No Country for Old Men
This was my first encounter with Cormac McCarthy, and it got me instantly hooked on his work. A meditation on the nature of fate and the nature of evil in the form of a modern Western.
Games
Rhythm Heaven Fever
I played this after a period of only playing high-budget, story-focused, cinematic AAA games, and Rhythm Heaven reminded me that heart and character are all you need to create a charming piece of art.
Bloodborne
From the atmosphere to the monsters to the level design to the lore, this is a nigh perfect game. The Lovecraftian setting is engrossing, and the countless attempts required before finally beating a boss is a constant lesson in perseverance.
Outer Wilds
A game that made me reimagine what a game could be. The feeling of exploring and gradually discovering more about the world felt incredible. Also, I played this the summer after college graduation, which made the story and overall themes hit that much harder.
Silent Hill 2
The music, ambience, and level design all come together to create a truly chilling experience that I still think about. I only played the remake -- I'd love to try out the original at some point.
