What Rocks My World
The Art that Inspires Me
There are certain works of art I return to once in a while to get a bit of inspiration. This week, I wanted to share some of the art, music, and books that have melted my face over the years.
Let’s start with some music.
I am a pop music fan, and I am always on the lookout for a unique and beautiful song from any artist who is willing to push the boundaries of what is possible.
In 1998, Madonna released the first single from what was her new album Ray of Light after taking a long break to give birth to her first daughter. This new song signaled a seismic shift in her creative output. “Frozen” sounded like nothing else she had done before, and no songs on mainstream pop radio sounded even remotely like it. I was absolutely floored when I heard it for the first time.
If you are looking for a modern pop song that marries rhythmic, tribal sensibilities with brooding, classical stylings, look no further. The layers of polyrhythms, the dramatic drum flourishes, and the gorgeous string arrangements put this song in a league of its own. It is a timeless, mystical, meditative piece of sonic art. Do not be distracted by the cool music video. This song is pure modern pop gold that I revisit often to refresh my ears.
(Another song I return to often is called “Come Undone” by the band Duran Duran. It was ahead of its time when it came out—another modern pop masterpiece. I love it so much. Check it out wherever you stream music.)
Now, let’s say hello to Egon.
I was in a library thumbing through some art books when my eye caught a thumbnail image of a painting. I had to lean in closer to get a better look. There was an intensity to the piece through its angularity and composition. It was confrontational and bold.
I discovered the name Egon Schiele and took a deep dive. I have been a devotee for many years now. He is an Austrian expressionist painter who is more well known for brazen and erotic nude portraits, but those do not do justice to his full body of work. Some pieces convey whimsy and depth.
And then, his landscape paintings are lonesome and rich.
Here is one of only two of his paintings I have had the chance to see in person.
I cannot tell you exactly why his work has resonated with me for so long. He was an artist who witnessed the death of his wife, unborn child, and parents from Spanish Influenza in the 1920’s. His work has a palpable sense of longing and isolation, along with several pieces that explore death and decomposition. He was refining his artistic voice amid much uncertainty, tumult, and suffering during World War I before his untimely end at the mercy of the same global pandemic that killed his loved ones. His vulnerability is what I see most in his art—hiding in plain sight for all to see.
So now, let’s visit Hannibal and Clarice.
When anyone asks me what my favorite movie is, my answer is always the same.
The Silence of the Lambs
I do not know if there is such a thing as a perfect movie, but this one comes as close as any can get. It deservedly accomplished the rare feat of winning Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director (Jonathan Demme), Best Actor (Anthony Hopkins), Best Actress (Jody Foster), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Ted Tally) back in 1991. (It is regarded as the only horror film to win Best Picture, but it’s more of a psychological thriller to me.) I venture to say that it would be just as well received if it was released this year because it hits high marks on every level. The subtle but effective cinematography, the iconic acting of both leads and the entire cast, the foreboding film score, and the unsettling twists and turns of the plot make for a memorable viewing experience.
In some ways, it comes off as more of a medieval tale of a lone warrior gone to slay a dragon, but it also showcases an unlikely alliance between a still-in-training rookie FBI agent and a deeply menacing serial killer. The dragon, as it turns out, is another beast entirely.
What truly captivated me was the explanation of the film’s title. It underscores the deep emotional scars of one of the main characters in such a poignant, compelling, and heartbreaking way. For anyone who has not seen this film, I hope I have not given anything away. Just watch it for the first time or see it again. Witness a cinematic masterpiece unfolding before your very eyes.
Lastly, let’s talk books.
It’s much harder for me to pinpoint a favorite book since there are numerous ones that I love.
Here is a short list of ones I enjoyed and enthusiastically recommend:
A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell (Nonfiction)
The true story of a disabled woman who moves mountains to disrupt German operations in France during WWII.
The Piano Shop on the Left Bank by Thad Carhart (Nonfiction/Memoir)
A delightful book for pianists and piano lovers everywhere. It is a meditation on finding one’s creative calling at any stage in life.
Slow Productivity by Cal Newport (Nonfiction)
An outline of simple, sustainable ways to build a life that feels fulfilling for the long term.
The God in Flight by Laura Argiri (Fiction)
A masterpiece of queer fiction, this book easily stands among the ranks of the Brontes and Austins of the world, but gay.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson (Fiction)
I love a story that sinks deeper and deeper into something bigger and bigger the more you read it. Lisbeth Salander is one of my favorite heroines ever.
Many of the works listed above have been influential to me for different reasons. They have each honed my artistic sensibilities in one way or another.
Discovery of new works and inspiration continues to this day.
There is so much beauty and depth to behold out in the world, and I am always ready for it.
Upcoming Shows: July 21, 2024 at DRKMTTR (Nashville, TN)
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You can hear my new song, Vampire, on every major streaming platform, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Tidal.
Give it a listen, share it, and add it to a playlist if you want. Search for Roqué Marcelo or visit any of the following links:
Spotify
Apple Music
Tidal
Amazon Music
Deezer
I have been spending a few days housesitting at my friend’s farm. This includes daily jaunts into her cottage garden. I sit among countless flowers after I venture in. The beauty of this place is intoxicating. It’s the best kind of sensory overload that I want.
I love being here.
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Madonna, the queen of musical growth and evolution. I remember well when Frozen came out, so different from anything else.
Also, Silence of the Lambs, was/is an incredible film. For years, I too, would say Silence of the Lambs was my favorite film for many of the reasons you listed, and I would not classify myself a fan of dark or suspense dramas.