A Thread of Red, a poem By: Anlin Charles

 A Thread of Red

By: Anlin Charles

A string that detached,

Beckons to be patched

A string that is waving in the wind,

Fingers around be twined.

A red sweater worn-out,

To the color fade-out,

With white polka dots,

Sewn together from topknots.

A cloth been through everything,

Even through a coffee ring,

Sewn together with memories,

Styled and combined with accessories.

At the end of day,

In the sunshine rays,

It is Waiting, 

Waiting to be worn again.

Lucky red sweater worn in hope,

Once delivered,

But soon withered,

Since it turned out to be a fluke.

Sweater with sweat,

once loved,

At the end of the closet is shoved.

You remember it at the back of your closet,

Memories flood through your mind,

Like a faucet

But will you wear it,

Once again?

Vanilla a poem by Anlin Charles

 Vanilla

Vanilla could be dressed up and down

Left and right

Loved by all

Everybody knows the vanilla ice cream

All over the world

Flavor so popular it’s known as the number one

Now everyone wants to be a scoop of vanilla ice cream

So pure and creamy

But impossible to achieve perfection

Everyone wants to be vanilla ice cream

That the toppings that differentiate them disappear

Until they turn into the vanilla ice cream

Basic but simple 

That is loved by all.

Don’t be a basic scoop of vanilla

Be a scoop of vanilla with different types of toppings.

Chocolate or Vanilla? by Anlin Charles

 Chocolate or Vanilla?

Both Chocolate and Vanilla are good basic staples, but it has been a battle of decades to ultimately decide which is the superior flavor. Vanilla is sweet and can be dressed more basic while chocolate is more flavored, more creamy and dressed less with toppings. 

Vanilla is a basic ice cream flavor that is loved by all. It is a sweet flavor made from milk and vanilla extract. It could be dressed up and down, eating it plain, or with gummy bears and chocolate syrup. It is a flavor that can be eaten in milkshakes, icecreams, cakes, cookies and more! This favor is known as the number 1 flavor in the US as said in the article America's Top 10 Favorite Ice Cream Flavors, Ice cream expert, Cary Frye has said, “Vanilla has long been the best-selling ice cream flavor not only because it is creamy and delicious, but also because of its ability to enhance so many other desserts and treats” (Frye). Vanilla ice cream could be eaten with brownies or even be a tiny sweet to eat. It is made with milk so it can boost your immune system, meaning it is healthy. The vanilla flavor and aroma itself is made from extracting vanilla beans. You could find vanilla for people that are lactose intolerant, there is an option of dairy-free vanilla ice cream, meaning everyone could enjoy this yummy treat. If you go onto youtube, pinterest or even tiktok, there is simple vanilla ice cream that you could make for yourself if you are craving vanilla ice cream. One of our founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson, is the person to have discovered vanilla ice cream, founding it in the 1780’s. It's a nostalgic flavor that everyone has tried, no matter from what decade you have been born. 

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Chocolate is a flavor that is most known for its chocolate bars. There are multiple flavors of chocolate, the three most popular being white chocolate, milk chocolate and dark chocolate. You can melt chocolate or even freeze chocolate, you can mold chocolate and you could even make art with chocolate, there are millions of possibilities to do with chocolate that, unlike vanilla, are easy to do. Eating chocolate also gives you a feeling of pleasure and happiness to your brain, making it loved by all. In the document Chocolate is better than Vanilla, by Jade Langlois, she writes how beneficial chocolate really is and how you could do anything with it. “Chocolate can go with all sorts of things including M&m’s, pretzels, and s’mores, unlike vanilla. Or you can just eat it plain” (Chocolate is better). For vanilla there is no vanilla sauce, no vanilla bars or such, because it will just taste like milk. But for chocolate, you can determine how sweet or bitter you want it to be based on your taste buds. Many people also just eat chocolate plain or put them in cookie dough to make scrumptious chocolate chip cookies. Chocolate is found in the cacao bean and was foundered around 1000 BC, much before vanilla, by the Olmec tribe, to use for drinking. The first chocolate bar was made in 1847, by Joseph Fry as he molded a chocolate bar. Chocolate is something we see everywhere in super markets, halloween candy, and in our own homes. It is a good dessert that is loved by all, since it is flavorful to eat and you could share it with friends. 

Even though vanilla is the better known flavor, it is only mostly known for its ice cream, even though its ice cream flavor is better, chocolate takes the cake for all the other dessert options. Since for desserts including vanilla there is most probably chocolate there to balance the flavor. There are also not a variety of options of vanilla unlike chocolate. Chocolate on the other hand, could be a chocolate bar just taken out of the package and eaten, could be split apart between friends and can help elevate a dessert to the next level. Overall, bringing chocolate to the win.

        Works Cited

API, Shopify. “Frozen Dessert Supplies.” Frozen Dessert Supplies, 16 Jan. 2024, frozendessertsupplies.com/blogs/news/new-america-s-top-10-favorite-ice-cream-flavors-and-the-best-toppings-to-go-with-them. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.

Langlois, Jade. “Chocolate Is Better than Vanilla.” The Greyhound, 15 Feb. 2017, thegreyhoundnews.com/1645/op-ed/chocolate-is-better-than-vanilla/. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.

MouthWatering McDonald’s, a review by Anlin Charles

  MouthWatering McDonald’s

                      Is McDonald’s really all it seems? Many people talk about how McDonald’s is all the hype. So, I decided to put it to the test. On Friday September 27th, I went to McDonalds, to buy a few of their products. It took me and my family 15 minutes to get our order and we decided we would eat in, with a fun play place for the younger kids. It was very fun. It was 9 pm into the night, so I was surprised to see it was much more crowded than I thought it would be. 

Fries: The fries were amazing. They were light brown and crispy, and nicely salted. You could hear a light crunch everytime you bit into one, they give you sauce options of honey and ketchup. With the iconic ketchup, it tasted amazing and as expected. With the honey, the fries were a little bit more sweet, a side that I have never tasted before. They were a bit dry and soggy though, but it was in fact the classic McDonald's fries.

Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich: The sandwich was juicy. While with every bite, you could hear the crisp. It was nicely cooked, and with ketchup, it tasted amazing. I would say though, it wasn’t all that spicy as it claimed to be, since it tasted normal, inside the chicken sandwich there was the crispy chicken patty, 2 pickles and mystery sauce. I overall really enjoyed it as it was pretty good, well seasoned and had a fun taste.

Iced Tea: The ice was sweet and bitter at the same time. It was a bit more bitter than I would have liked it to be, but I liked trying a new taste. It had more ice in the plastic cup than actual juice, but I wasn’t able to finish a small one since it was so sugary and filling. 

Chicken Nuggets: It had a nice crisp, it was the chicken nuggets you would expect to get a normal McDonald’s. It was fun and juicy and iconic to be eaten with ketchup. It was a little too salted but with a sauce you won’t notice it that much. It was nice and overall, pretty decent.

Ultimately, I would give McDonald’s a rating of 9/10, something they should improve on is to salt things a little more lightly. While McDonanld’s should continue to make good juicy sandwiches. McDonald’s is a classic fast food restaurant that is something we all have probably eaten in our lifetimes. Now would you want to try McDonald’s?

Book Review: Henry David Thoreau's Walden (Life in the Woods) By: Nishanth Balaji

 

Book Review: Walden (Life in the Woods)

By: Nishanth Balaji

Henry David Thoreau’s Walden (Life in the Woods) is more than just a reflection on his two-year experiment of living in solitude near Walden Pond; it is a profound meditation on simplicity, self-reliance, and the essence of a meaningful life. Published in 1854, Walden has since become a classic work of American literature, inspiring generations to reconsider their relationship with nature, society, and themselves. In this review, I will explore the key themes of Walden, discuss its relevance today, and share my personal reflections on the lessons Thoreau offers.

The Call for Simplicity

At the core of Walden is Thoreau’s argument for simplicity. He deliberately withdrew from society to strip away unnecessary distractions and focus on the essentials of life. Thoreau believed that modern society, with its constant busyness and materialism, often pulls people away from what truly matters. As he famously wrote, “Our life is frittered away by detail… Simplify, simplify.”

Thoreau’s call for simplicity resonated with me, especially in today’s fast-paced world, where we are constantly bombarded by notifications, deadlines, and the pressure to stay connected. Walden made me reflect on how much time I spend focused on things that don’t truly contribute to my happiness or growth. His advice to simplify our lives feels more relevant than ever, and it inspired me to think about ways I could live more deliberately, focusing on what genuinely brings me joy.

Reconnecting with Nature

One of the most beautiful aspects of Walden is Thoreau’s deep connection to nature. By immersing himself in the natural world, he developed a profound appreciation for the simplicity, beauty, and wisdom it offers. Thoreau’s detailed observations of the changing seasons, the behavior of animals, and the rhythms of the natural world are central to his reflections. He saw nature as a source of inspiration, peace, and clarity, offering lessons that could not be learned in the chaos of society.

This connection to nature stood out to me because, as teens, many of us spend the majority of our time indoors, attached to our devices or schoolwork. Thoreau’s experience reminded me of the importance of stepping away from technology and reconnecting with the natural world. It’s not just about being in nature—it’s about slowing down and paying attention to the details, learning to appreciate the simplicity and balance that nature offers. After reading Walden, I was inspired to spend more time outdoors, even if it’s just taking a walk in the park or sitting quietly to observe my surroundings.

Self-Reliance and Personal Growth

Thoreau’s experiment at Walden Pond wasn’t just about living in nature—it was also a test of self-reliance. He built his own cabin, grew his own food, and lived with minimal possessions. For Thoreau, self-reliance wasn’t just about physical survival; it was about cultivating a sense of independence and self-awareness. He believed that by living simply and depending on oneself, individuals could better understand who they are and what they truly need.

This theme of self-reliance had a strong impact on me. As a teen, there’s a lot of pressure to conform to the expectations of others—whether it’s parents, teachers, or friends. Thoreau’s insistence on self-reliance made me realize the importance of knowing myself and trusting my own judgment, rather than always seeking validation from others. His experiment in living independently, both physically and mentally, was a reminder that personal growth often comes from stepping away from the noise and focusing on self-discovery.

Relevance in Today’s World

Though Walden was written over 150 years ago, its messages are still incredibly relevant today. In a world that often prioritizes material success over personal fulfillment, Thoreau’s reflections challenge us to rethink our values. He encourages readers to question whether the pursuit of wealth, status, and possessions truly brings happiness. Instead, Thoreau suggests that a simpler, more mindful life—rooted in nature, self-reliance, and reflection—is the key to genuine contentment.

For me, this message was particularly striking. As we navigate school, social media, and future career ambitions, it’s easy to get caught up in the race to “succeed.” But Walden reminds us that success doesn’t have to be defined by society’s standards. Thoreau’s reflections challenge us to think about what kind of life we truly want to lead and whether that life aligns with our own values and desires.

Personal Reflections

Reading Walden was a transformative experience for me. Thoreau’s observations, both of the natural world and of himself, made me think deeply about my own life. His message of simplicity, self-reliance, and personal growth felt both challenging and inspiring. I realized that while it’s easy to get lost in the busyness of daily life, it’s important to take time to slow down, reflect, and connect with what truly matters.

Thoreau’s emphasis on living deliberately—making conscious choices about how we spend our time and energy—is something I’ve tried to apply to my own life. Whether it’s being more intentional about how I use my phone or spending more time outside, Walden has encouraged me to seek out ways to live with more purpose and awareness.

Conclusion: A Timeless Reflection on Life’s Essentials

Walden (Life in the Woods) is a timeless reflection on what it means to live a meaningful life. Thoreau’s call for simplicity, his connection to nature, and his emphasis on self-reliance are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century. For teens like myself, who are navigating a world full of distractions and expectations, Walden offers a refreshing perspective on what truly matters.

Thoreau’s reflections remind us that life isn’t about accumulating wealth or achievements; it’s about living with purpose, connecting with nature, and staying true to ourselves. If you’re looking for a book that challenges your perspective and encourages you to reflect on your own life, Walden is definitely worth reading. Its insights are not only thought-provoking but also incredibly relevant for anyone seeking to live more deliberately in today’s complex world.

Works Cited

Henry David Thoreau. Walden (Life in the Woods). Washington, Cosimo Classics, 1849.

Book Review: Henry David Thoreau's Life Without Principle By: Nishanth Balaji

 

Book Review: Life Without Principle

By: Nishanth Balaji

Henry David Thoreau’s essay Life Without Principle challenges societal values and urges individuals to lead lives of integrity, purpose, and self-awareness. Thoreau, known for his deeply reflective writings on nature, individualism, and civil disobedience, once again calls readers to question their lives and the world around them. This essay presents a clear critique of how society encourages the pursuit of wealth and superficial success over meaningful existence. In this review, I will explore Thoreau’s main arguments, reflect on their relevance today, and share my personal insights on his message.

The Critique of Modern Work and Wealth

At the heart of Life Without Principle is Thoreau’s disdain for society’s obsession with work that lacks true purpose. Thoreau criticizes how people are often trapped in jobs they don’t care about, purely for the sake of survival or the accumulation of wealth. He argues that this focus on financial gain over personal fulfillment results in a hollow existence. Thoreau writes, “The aim of the laborer should be, not to get his living, but to perform well a certain work.”

This critique resonated with me deeply, especially as a student preparing for the future. We are constantly reminded of the importance of finding a “good job” and making enough money to be comfortable, but Thoreau’s essay challenges that mindset. He encourages us to think beyond the material and consider what truly gives our lives meaning. His message is a powerful reminder that work should not just be about making a living but about finding purpose and making a genuine contribution to the world.

Relevance in a Materialistic World

Though Life Without Principle was written in the 19th century, its relevance in today’s materialistic world is undeniable. In our modern society, success is often measured by wealth, status, and possessions. Thoreau warns against this mindset, arguing that a life driven by material gain is a life without true fulfillment. He advocates for a simpler, more introspective approach to living, where individuals focus on what is personally meaningful rather than what society deems important.

Thoreau’s message is particularly relevant in an age of social media, where people often feel pressured to present their lives as perfect and successful. The constant comparison to others can make it easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Reading Life Without Principle felt like a reminder to slow down and reassess my own values, and I think many teens today could benefit from this same reflection.

Personal Reflections

What struck me most about Life Without Principle is Thoreau’s unapologetic call for personal integrity. He encourages individuals to think for themselves and not be swayed by societal expectations. This is a message I found both inspiring and challenging. It’s easy to get caught up in the expectations of others—whether it's parents, teachers, or peers—but Thoreau’s essay is a call to break free from that pressure and live authentically.

As a teen, the pressure to succeed academically and prepare for a “successful” future can sometimes feel overwhelming. Thoreau’s words helped me realize that success shouldn’t be defined by external measures like grades, career achievements, or financial status. Instead, true success comes from living in alignment with our own principles and passions. This was a liberating realization and one that I plan to carry with me as I navigate the challenges of school and beyond.

The Pursuit of Truth and Simplicity

Another core theme in Life Without Principle is Thoreau’s advocacy for a life of simplicity and truth. He critiques the constant pursuit of news, gossip, and distractions that prevent people from truly thinking and reflecting on their lives. Thoreau believed that by focusing on what is essential and cutting out unnecessary distractions, individuals could live more deeply and purposefully.

In today’s fast-paced world, where we are constantly bombarded with information and entertainment, this message feels more relevant than ever. Thoreau’s call for simplicity reminded me of the importance of mindfulness and being present in the moment. It’s easy to get lost in the chaos of daily life, but Life Without Principle serves as a reminder to strip away the noise and focus on what really matters.

Conclusion: A Call to Live with Purpose

Life Without Principle is a profound and timeless essay that challenges readers to rethink their priorities and live with purpose. Thoreau’s critique of materialism, his call for personal integrity, and his advocacy for simplicity resonate deeply in today’s world. As a teen, reading this essay was both thought-provoking and inspiring. It reminded me that life is about more than just success or wealth—it’s about living authentically and finding meaning in our everyday actions.

Thoreau’s words are a powerful reminder that we each have the ability to shape our lives according to our own values, rather than conforming to the expectations of society. Life Without Principle is not just an essay; it’s a call to action for anyone who wants to live more deliberately and meaningfully. For anyone feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of modern life, Thoreau’s insights offer a refreshing perspective on what it means to live with purpose.

Works Cited

Henry David Thoreau. Civil Disobedience. Washington, D.C., Aesthetic Papers, 1849.

Book Review: Henry David Thoreau's Civil Disobedience By: Nishanth Balaji

 

Book Review: Civil Disobedience

By: Nishanth Balaji

Henry David Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience is one of the most influential essays in American political thought, inspiring generations to challenge unjust laws through nonviolent resistance. First published in 1849, Thoreau’s work is a reflection on his personal experience with protest and a broader critique of government power. Though the essay was written over 170 years ago, its messages about personal conscience, justice, and the role of government still resonate today.

The Power of Individual Conscience

At the heart of Civil Disobedience is Thoreau’s belief in the primacy of individual conscience over government authority. He argues that when the laws of the government conflict with one’s moral beliefs, it is not only a person’s right but also their duty to refuse compliance. Thoreau himself demonstrated this when he refused to pay a poll tax as a protest against slavery and the Mexican-American War.

This idea that individual morality should supersede the law is especially powerful for teens today, as we are often faced with societal pressures to conform. Thoreau’s message reminds us that it’s okay to stand up for what we believe is right, even if it means going against authority. In a world where injustices continue to exist, Thoreau’s call to prioritize our own moral compass is still relevant.

Government and Injustice

Thoreau’s criticism of the government’s role in perpetuating injustice is another central theme of Civil Disobedience. He contends that governments, by their very nature, tend to be inefficient and unjust, driven by the interests of the majority rather than what is morally right. He famously declares, "That government is best which governs least," arguing that people should not blindly follow laws simply because they are laws.

For me, this aspect of Thoreau’s argument strikes a chord because it challenges us to think critically about the systems we are part of. As young people, we are often told to follow rules without question, whether they come from schools, governments, or even social institutions. Thoreau encourages us to question the validity and fairness of those rules, and not to passively accept injustice.

This essay also makes us reflect on the broader impact of government actions. Thoreau was deeply opposed to the institution of slavery and the war with Mexico, and he saw his refusal to support the government financially as a direct way to protest these immoral acts. His insistence that citizens should withdraw their support from unjust systems is a powerful reminder that our choices, no matter how small, can make a difference in the fight against injustice.

Nonviolent Resistance

Thoreau’s advocacy for nonviolent resistance is one of the most enduring legacies of Civil Disobedience. His essay became a source of inspiration for many historical figures who championed nonviolent movements, including Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Thoreau believed that peaceful protest was a more powerful form of resistance than violence, as it required greater moral conviction and courage.

This approach is incredibly relevant today, especially as we see protests and movements around the world advocating for change. In a time when it feels like there is so much conflict and anger in the world, Thoreau’s insistence on peaceful resistance is a reminder that meaningful change can be achieved without violence. As teens, many of us feel passionate about issues like climate change, racial justice, and equality. Thoreau’s message reassures us that we have the power to enact change through peaceful, deliberate actions.

Personal Responsibility and Civic Duty

Another key theme in Civil Disobedience is the idea of personal responsibility. Thoreau doesn’t just call for protest against injustice—he believes that each individual has a personal responsibility to act according to their conscience. This goes beyond simply recognizing what is wrong; it requires taking action, even if that action involves personal sacrifice. Thoreau’s refusal to pay taxes landed him in jail for a night, and while the experience was brief, it solidified his belief that standing up for justice was worth any personal cost.

This resonates with me as a teen because we often feel powerless to change the world. But Thoreau reminds us that small acts of resistance—like refusing to support unethical systems—are powerful. It’s not always about doing something grand; sometimes, the smallest acts of courage, driven by a sense of responsibility, can lead to larger social changes. Thoreau’s essay challenges us to think about our role in society and to take ownership of our actions, especially when it comes to making a stand for what we believe is just.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Civil Disobedience remains a timeless and essential essay that challenges us to rethink our relationship with government, authority, and personal responsibility. Thoreau’s insistence on the primacy of individual conscience, his critique of unjust governance, and his advocacy for nonviolent resistance continue to inspire readers to take a stand for justice.

For teens today, Thoreau’s essay offers not just a reflection on the past but also a call to action in the present. In a world that still grapples with issues of inequality, oppression, and injustice, Civil Disobedience reminds us that we all have the power—and responsibility—to make a difference. Whether it’s through peaceful protests, civic engagement, or simply questioning unjust systems, Thoreau’s work encourages us to act in accordance with our moral beliefs.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking read that challenges you to consider your role in creating a just society, Civil Disobedience is definitely worth your time.

Works Cited

Henry David Thoreau. Civil Disobedience. Washington, Dover Publications, 1849.