Luis Borges, the Argentine writer, is renowned for his complex and thought-provoking works that often delve into philosophical themes. While Borges himself was not a philosopher in the traditional sense, his writings frequently explore philosophical concepts, particularly those related to metaphysics, reality, and the nature of time and identity.

Borges’ philosophy cannot be pinned down to a single set of beliefs or principles. Instead, it manifests as a playful interplay between fiction and philosophy within his diverse body of work. He delighted in blurring the lines between genres, treating literature as non-fiction and vice versa, and often included invented authors and works within his essays.

His fascination with philosophy, especially metaphysics, sets him apart from his contemporaries. Borges appreciated and formulated rigorous philosophical arguments, but also had the unique ability to present abstract ideas imaginatively through metaphors and symbols. For instance, his stories often feature labyrinths, mirrors, and infinite libraries, which serve as symbols for more profound philosophical inquiries into reality, perception, and the infinite.

In his works, Borges frequently references and engages with the ideas of notable philosophers such as Berkeley, Hume, and Schopenhauer. He uses their concepts as a starting point to further explore and sometimes refute or extend their ideas. For example, in “The New Refutation of Time, ” Borges discusses Schopenhauer’s denial of the reality of our representations and takes it a step further by questioning the reality of time itself.

Overall, Borges’ contribution to philosophical literature is significant, and his works continue to inspire and challenge readers and thinkers alike. His approach to philosophy is less about asserting a consistent system of thought and more about exploring the possibilities and paradoxes that arise when one engages deeply with philosophical questions.

The philosophy embedded in Jorge Luis Borges’ “El Aleph” is multifaceted, reflecting his deep engagement with metaphysical questions and the nature of reality. The story, which is part of the collection also titled “El Aleph, ” revolves around a point in space called the Aleph, which contains all other points in the universe. This point allows the observer to see everything in the universe from every angle simultaneously, without distortion, overlapping, or confusion.

The Aleph symbolizes the concept of infinity and the limitations of human perception and language. Borges uses this narrative device to explore the idea that the universe is ineffable and that experiences shape perception and rationality. The story suggests that language, being sequential, cannot adequately describe the Aleph, which is synchronous and represents an “unimaginable universe” that is infinite.

Borges also touches on the theme of memory and its fallibility. After witnessing the Aleph, the narrator realizes that human memory cannot retain the infinite, and forgetfulness is an inherent part of the human condition. This ties back to the philosophical exploration of time and its inexorable passage, which naturally leads to memories fading away.

In a broader sense, “El Aleph” can be seen as a commentary on the human quest for knowledge and the desire to comprehend the incomprehensible. It challenges readers to consider the limitations of their own understanding and the potential vastness of the universe beyond what can be perceived or described.

Borges’ work often blurs the boundaries between the literal and the metaphorical, encouraging readers to reflect on the philosophical implications of his stories. “El Aleph” is a prime example of this, offering a rich tapestry of ideas about infinity, reality, and the power and limits of human cognition.

Jorge Luis Borges’ essay “A New Refutation of Time” is a profound exploration of the nature of time and its existence. In this work, Borges challenges the conventional understanding of time as a sequence of events that occur in a linear fashion. He argues that the negations of idealism, which suggest that reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual rather than material, can be extended to time itself.

Borges posits that time may not be a real, objective entity but rather a subjective construction of the human mind. He draws upon various philosophical and literary sources to support his argument, suggesting that time, as we perceive it, is an illusion. The essay delves into metaphysical questions about the continuity of time and personal identity, examining how our perception of time shapes our experience of existence.

The philosophy presented in “A New Refutation of Time” is complex and layered, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of time and its impact on their lives. Borges’ reflections on time have influenced many thinkers and continue to be a topic of discussion in philosophical circles.

In Jorge Luis Borges’ essay “A New Refutation of Time, ” some of the key arguments include:

The Illusion of Successive Moments: Borges suggests that our experience of time as a continuity of successive moments is a cognitive illusion, not an inherent feature of the universe.

Time and Personal Identity: He explores the idea that time is the foundation of our experience of personal identity, drawing from philosophical and literary sources to support his views.

Time as a Mental Construction: Borges argues that time may not be a real, objective entity but rather a subjective construction of the human mind.

Berkeley’s Idealism and Leibniz’s Principle of Indiscernibles: He uses these philosophical principles to support his argument that time, as we perceive it, is an illusion.

Parmenides’ Proposition: Borges refers to Parmenides’ idea that “what is” never was nor will be because it simply exists, which challenges the traditional concept of time.

Time and Movement: He discusses the relationship between time and movement, questioning the conventional belief that time is a measure of change.

Eternity: Borges offers a definition of eternity in the form of a rhetorical question, further complicating the concept of time.

These arguments are part of Borges’ broader philosophical inquiry into the nature of reality and existence, as he seeks to demonstrate that time, as we understand and experience it, may be nothing more than an elaborate mental construct.

Albert Camus, a French-Algerian writer and philosopher, is renowned for his unique contribution to the philosophical realm, particularly through his exploration of the Absurd. His philosophy is often associated with existentialism, despite his own rejection of the label. Camus’ works delve into the human condition and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

The Absurd and the Search for Meaning At the heart of Camus’ philosophy is the concept of the Absurd, which arises from the conflict between the human desire for significance, order, and clarity on one hand, and the silent, irrational, and indifferent world on the other1. This tension is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, as individuals continually seek purpose in life despite the universe’s lack of inherent meaning.

Revolt as a Response to the Absurd Camus argues that the appropriate response to the Absurd is not suicide or despair, but rather revolt. This revolt is a persistent and courageous confrontation with the Absurd, and it involves a refusal to succumb to nihilism, a rejection of false hopes, and the continuous quest for meaning1. It is through this act of revolt that individuals affirm their own existence and derive a sense of personal freedom and identity.

Camus’ Literary Expression of Philosophy Camus’ philosophical ideas are intricately woven into his literary works. Novels such as “The Stranger” (L’Étranger), “The Plague” (La Peste), and “The Fall” (La Chute) not only tell compelling stories but also serve as vehicles for his philosophical thought. In “The Myth of Sisyphus,” Camus uses the Greek mythological figure Sisyphus, condemned to eternally roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down, as a metaphor for the human condition. Sisyphus, aware of his futile task, chooses to embrace his labor, thus embodying the spirit of revolt and finding happiness in the struggle itself.

THE FALL

The novel “The Fall” by Albert Camus explores several profound themes, including:

Innocence and guilt: The protagonist’s reflections on his life and actions lead to a deep examination of personal responsibility and moral judgment.

Imprisonment: Both literal and metaphorical imprisonment are motifs that represent the constraints of society and one’s own conscience.

Non-existence and truth: These themes delve into existential questions about the nature of reality and the search for authenticity.

The Absurd: A central theme in Camus’ work, the Absurd reflects the conflict between human desires for meaning and the indifferent universe.

The story is set in Amsterdam and is told through the dramatic monologues of Jean-Baptiste Clamence, a self-proclaimed “judge-penitent.” Clamence’s narrative serves as a secular retelling of the Biblical fall of man from the Garden of Eden, and his “fall” from grace is a metaphor for the human condition in the face of an absurd and meaningless world. Camus’ “The Fall” is a philosophical exploration that challenges readers to consider their own lives and the human struggle for authenticity and meaning in a complex and often incomprehensible world.

THE STRANGER

The theme of “The Stranger” by Albert Camus is centered around the concept of absurdity and the meaninglessness of life. The protagonist, Meursault, embodies the philosophy of existentialism and absurdism, as he navigates a world that seems irrational and devoid of purpose. Here are some key themes explored in the novel:

Absurdity and the Irrational Universe: The novel reflects Camus’s philosophical notion of absurdity, where individual lives and human existence have no rational meaning or order. Meursault’s actions, such as his decision to marry Marie and his decision to kill the Arab, lack discernible reasons, highlighting the irrationality of the universe1.

Meaninglessness of Life and the Absurd: Meursault perceives the world as meaningless and dismisses others’ attempts to find rational structures and meaning in life. He rejects both religious and secular efforts to find purpose.

Indifference and Passivity: Meursault’s indifferent attitude towards his mother’s death and other events in his life illustrates his passive nature and detachment from societal norms and expectations.

Importance of Physical Experience: Throughout the novel, Meursault is more affected by physical sensations than by emotional or psychological experiences, emphasizing the importance of the tangible over the abstract.

Chance and Interchangeability: Meursault views life’s experiences as interchangeable and arbitrary, further underscoring the theme of absurdity.

Relationships: The novel also explores Meursault’s inability to form deep, complex relationships, which are often superficial and lack emotional depth.

These themes collectively portray a world where traditional values and logical reasoning do not apply, and they challenge readers to contemplate the significance of their own existence within an indifferent universe.

THE PLAGUE

The novel “The Plague” by Albert Camus explores several profound themes:

Additionally, “The Plague” is often interpreted as an allegory for the Nazi occupation of France during World War II, reflecting Camus’ own experiences in the French Resistance. The novel’s portrayal of a community’s response to an overwhelming crisis can also be seen as a broader commentary on human resilience and solidarity in the face of existential threats.

THE MYTH OF SISYPHUS

The central theme of Albert Camus’ essay “The Myth of Sisyphus” is absurdism. Camus explores the human condition and the concept of the absurd, which arises from the fundamental conflict between humans’ innate desire for meaning, order, and clarity in life, and the universe’s apparent indifference and lack of inherent meaning.

In “The Myth of Sisyphus,” Camus discusses how, despite our longing for significance and understanding, we often find the world to be irrational and chaotic. He suggests that we will never find in life itself the meaning that we seek2. This leads to the notion that life might be inherently meaningless, but Camus proposes that instead of succumbing to despair or seeking false hope through religious or philosophical beliefs, one should embrace the absurd condition of human existence1.

Camus identifies three characteristics of an absurd life:

He uses the Greek myth of Sisyphus, who is condemned to roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down each time he reaches the top, as a metaphor for this philosophy. Camus concludes that, like Sisyphus, we must find happiness in the struggle itself, rather than in the hope of reaching some final resolution.

​​​​​​​❅

THEcold air entangles itself between the bustling population surrounding the vast building.

The bright taxi cab stops to let the tired couple out of the vehicle. Her twisted curls fly as she glances toward the early sky wearing a scowl.

The mellow morning swirls with the plush snow toying with the young woman. Two of her least favorite things are on display around her as she tries to soothe her temper.

Nanami swore that she would hate herself if she ruined the trip for Felix with her sour attitude.

Per the pep talk, she gave herself this morning.

She reminds herself to calm down as her eyes serve to observe the happy man. His freckled face scrunches with joy as he takes a chance to smell the winter air. As if he's Lorelei freaking Gilmore.

Nanami sighs with her growing, affectionate smile. But their romantic trance is broken by the impatient cab driver, who is quick to receive his pay and return their luggage.

Nanami waddles over to the giddy man ushering him into the grand building, hoping to get ahead of the many passengers.

Clasping onto their luggage, Nanami and Felix make their way over to the line of bustling people. As they wait to reach security, Nanami checks for their tickets and necessities whilst Felix watches over her.

Thanks to her planning, they pass through the security check smoothly before heading over to the tram station. Shoving themselves between the many as sardines in a tin, the two glue their hands together to find shortlived comfort.

Shuffling outward, the couple quickly moves to find their gate.

Nanami huffs at the overwhelming amount of people in the area as she tries to discover a free seat. Squinting her tired eyes, she finds two seats near the lit window. Nanami zips through the crowd as Felix struggles to keep up with her urgent pace.

"Thank fucking god," she exasperates letting herself breathe as Felix laughs to himself. "Now, before we sit let's go find some food."

"Wait, wait," Felix stops the girl with an arched brow. "Why not just get some later? I mean we just found our spots."

Her afro swishes as she sighs and turns to face her boyfriend, "One, I'm fucking starving and I need something to wake me up. Two, already ahead of you."

"What?" Felix's chestnut brows furrow at her suspicious wink.

"But first, I need a twenty-dollar bill," she digs into her bag before silently stepping over to a silent young man. His lengthy, dark strands cover cascaded eyes as his pink hoodie covers his slender figure.

A tap on the shoulder gets the man to lock his eyes on Nanami's.

"Hi, I'm Nanami!" She said plastering a smile on her tired face

"Hi?" The man responds as his face is struck with confusion.

"Okay so, I'm really hungry and I have a lot of luggage with me. So, I was wondering if you could watch my luggage and make sure no one like steals anything or takes the seats."

"Um..."

"I mean of course not for free," Nanami slides the folded bill to the man whose eyes widened at the sight of cash.

"You want me... to watch your luggage... for twenty bucks?"

"Yep! Just make sure no one takes anything and that we still have seats when we come back."

The man let out a humored sigh and gently took the money, "Alright, you got yourself a deal."

"Oh my god! Thank you so much..." Nanami trails off as the realization sets in, she never got his name.

"It's Beomgyu and you're welcome. Enjoy your food," he sheepishly smiles.

"Thank you Beomgyu, and we'll be right back," she waves goodbye before dragging Felix to search for a short meal.

Beomgyu watches the seemingly energetic girl loop arms with a blond male before he dips his back into his television show. "Only at airports man."

"How the hell did that work?" Felix chuckles at her boldness.

"Never underestimate a little bribery. Now c'mon, I'm freaking starving!"

The two carry on through the sea of people attempting to find the airport's food court. Soon a delish scent wafts toward Nanami and her head swivels to find a Korean restaurant. "Felix. Felix. Oh my god."

"What's up," he peers down at the starstruck girl.

"They have Korean corndogs, look at them." The poor, hungry girl is practically salivating at the sight.

"You want one?" He asks trying not to laugh at her sudden enthusiasm. To which she replies with a wordless nod. "Well then come on," he drags her to the restaurant free of a wait time.

"I'm telling you man Emma Watson is..."

"Hey, we got customers," the man saves his coworker from embarrassment as he fixes his face to seem welcoming.

"Welcome to The Real Korea," he clears his throat as a rosy color fades into his face. "My name is Yeosang, what can I get for you?"

Nanami bites her lip from laughing as Felix steps up to order.

"I'll do one mozzarella corn dog with your special boba milk tea," Felix orders letting Nanami compose herself.

"I'll have your potato corn dog with half mozzarella and half sausage. Oh, and a coffee please," she orders quickly.

"Alright, that'll be $22.57, cash or card?"

"Card," Felix responds as he fishes in his pockets for his wallet.

Nanami wraps her arms around his figure as a silent thank you as he pays for their food.

Nanami watches as the man named Yeosang disappears and returns shortly as a high-pitched laugh is heard from the back. The giggling man shortly follows with two freshly fried corndogs and a huffing, short man follows with an annoyed expression paired with two drink orders.

"Order for Felix!" They call for them to collect their food.

"Thank you this looks delicious!" Nanami gushes.

"We hope you enjoy and have a safe flight!" The short man bids them goodbye.

The couple gives them a final goodbye before heading back to their gate.

"Oh, this is so good," Nanami squeals as the food tastes better than her expectations. "How's yours?"

"Amazing, I'm glad you suggested it," Felix sips some of his milk tea.

"Can I have a bite please?" Nanami peers at his golden corn dog.

"My cheese stick." Felix refuses with pursed lips.

"C'mon, please?" Nanami pouts.

"Nuh-uh," Felix raises his food to where she can't reach.

"Fine." She exasperates quickening her pace and leaving Felix behind.

"Wait, Nai, I was joking!"

[Intro]

There’s a hole in my head…

(There’s a hole in my head…)

(Hole in my head)

[Verse]

I open my eyes and see the crowd

They’re devastated, crying aloud

Begging me to call them friends

The girls aren’t holding down the tears

The men are shaking their heads

It doesn’t look like they’re pretending

But my memories faded like a forgotten song

[Pre-Chorus]

All the faces are in a daze

But with them I feel so safe

I don’t know who is right

And who used to be by my side

[Chorus]

There’s a hole in my head

Is there something to regret?

Someone’s trying to get rid of me

Someone put me under threat

Is there a reason to be afraid?

Is there something I should change?

My heart squeezes, my heart aches

My breath stops, my body shakes

'Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…

('Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…)

[Post-Chorus]

Oh, oh, oh…

[Verse 2]

I open my eyes and see the lady

She’s desperate, crying like a baby

Whispering something like, "no, please"

It seems like her wounds can’t be healed

It looks like her pain is too deep

Her name can’t help me find the keys

Her image slips away like a beautiful mirage

[Pre-Chorus]

But why do I feel so ashamed

When I look into her eyes?

What if it’s too late

To try to break the ice?

[Chorus]

There’s a hole in my head

Is there something to regret?

Someone’s trying to get rid of me

Someone put me under threat

Is there a reason to be afraid?

Is there something I should change?

My heart squeezes, my heart aches

My breath stops, my body shakes

'Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…

('Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…)

[Bridge]

Why do I wanna taste her lips?

Why do I suddenly crave her kiss?

Is it okay to trust someone you don’t know?

Is it okay that they can see me through?

[Break]

It’s like they’ve known me forever

[Chorus]

There’s a hole in my head

Is there something to regret?

Someone’s trying to get rid of me

Someone put me under threat

Is there a reason to be afraid?

Is there something I should change?

My heart squeezes, my heart aches

My breath stops, my body shakes

'Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…

('Cause I’ve got a hole in my head…)

[Outro]

Is it okay to trust someone you don’t know?

Is it okay that they can see me through?

There are mornings when I am utterly convinced that the finest way to commence the day is with a cup of coffee. Those acquainted with me are well aware of my profound affection for coffee; it is a way of life from which I shall never stray.

My romance with coffee began at the tender age of sixteen, and from that moment, I have been irreversibly enthralled by it. Fortunately, my indulgence is tempered, as I seldom consume more than two cups daily, keeping my vice within the bounds of reason.

The allure of coffee lies in its unparalleled ability to induce relaxation. Upon entering a café, I am enveloped in a sanctuary of tranquillity where the troubles of the world seem to fade away.

Moreover, an exquisite cup of coffee is often paired with a splendid breakfast, heralding the start of a day replete with promise. It is the prelude to a morning of culinary delight and the harbinger of a light, satisfying lunch. This interlude of serenity amidst a frenetic day is priceless.

The taste of a perfectly crafted cappuccino or espresso invigorates me. It is a sensory journey back to the earth from whence it came, a connection to the origins of the coffee bean. Visiting the places where these beans are harvested, and inhaling their rich aroma, fosters a profound sense of connection with people. Cafés themselves are vibrant social hubs, teeming with life, where an exceptional coffee begets a splendid social experience.

Consider how often your travels commence with a cup of coffee. For me, coffee is synonymous with vacation and leisure. This ubiquitous commodity transcends borders, and uncovering hidden coffee shops and their unique patrons is an unparalleled adventure.

Thus, begin your day with a splendid cup of coffee. Savour it quietly, sip it slowly, and grant yourself the morning you merit. Life is fleeting, and every moment spent enjoying coffee is never wasted. The possibilities are endless, whether you prefer it brewed, espresso-based, or prepared with a siphon. This boundless potential endears coffee to me, keeping us perpetually enchanted.

My next Substack is live! Check it out to learn a bit about my writing process.

https://open.substack.com/pub/katiegoesmew/p/a-week-to-plan?r=1semov&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

SO I AM AWARE ITS BEEN A HOT MINUTE SINCE IVE BEEN ON HERE OK?

but so like i made it a new years thing to focus less on relationships this year and more on I dunno SCHOOL!!! I was fucking prepped to be single most of the year and not get overly distracted the world how fucking ever was liek hey girl. FUCK YOU!

Im in a like situation ship type thing and love life shit has just spiraledddddddddd

Yes, been hating IRL at the fact that I cannot have free internet but oh well...our internet provider is always known to be slow.

Also, Slay The Valley of Unyan draft is complete. O.O

Just need to edit them and done

Then I'll proceed to Four Curses

havent done one of these in a long time

things are okay enough for me

like at the moment.

i went to the city to watch a play with my english teacher that was cool

he bought me a salad bc i was having a freakout that was cool

he also payed for my train tickets bc i didnt have a card that was cool

i told my mum im gonna need a card next time i saw her

she exaggerated what i said to dad and he started yelling at me, calling me ungrateful, how i dont care what he does for me and i take everything for granted, he told me how disappointed he was with me then got up in my face, he threw his wallet on the floor bc 'i wanted a card so bad why dont i take one' or something and he said *i* was over reacting. so i swore at him and said he was having a tantrum and he took my phone (fair enough) but he took the case off it and with his big monkey paws he crumpled all the paper i kept in the back of my phone (a note of encouragement my english teacher gave me, a buisness card from my old music teacher and a information slip on peridot crystals bc my boyfriend got me a crystal ring for my birthday!) and even tore some by accident.

didnt really see that as necessary.

i was sobbing my eyes out and when he FINALLY decided to listen to ME and not focus on whatever mum blew out of proportion HE STARTED CRYING TOO. out of guilt no less, i was genuinely shaking and unable to breathe or speak coherently. i was a mess. an embarrassment. i just wanted to talk about my day. but i guess fucking not.  ridiculous, a fully grown man.

he leaves for china soon. 2 weeks, no dad.

ive also been ill so thats no good. i wish i wrote more consistently, i fear i wouldnt be as worked up all the time

i'll set a reminder in my phone and penana will here MUCH more of me.

until then, toodles

-vinsie

“Fuck!” Her head was spinning as he pulled her close behind the half broken wall. Numbly, ignoring all her exhaustion, she looked up at him, silently begging him to make it all stop. To make them all to away.

Behind them and behind the wall she could hear the monsters creeping closer, their footsteps so harsh on the soft ground, and even from this distance she could hear the growling evaporating from their chests.

”Hazel..” She turned around at the sound of Grayson’s voice. He faltered. “You need to run. If you leave now, you might still make it back to the rest.”

“But what about you??” She screeched as quietly as possible. “I won’t leave you here, all by yourself! They’re going to kill you”, she added under her breath. She pulled herself closer to him, resting her head on his chest, knowing this was probably the last time she did so.

His eyes were filled with sadness as he smiled down at her. “I’ll keep them entertained for a bit”, he whispered. “I’ll give you a head start, you know?”

Her eyes widened. “No”, she said. “No, no, no.” Hastily she shook her head. “You cant do that!!” she wined. “Sure, you’ve got your gun and your- your axe and I don’t know what else but they’re too many!!” She gulped. “Way too many.”

The groaning noise grew louder. Each footstep was now audible by itself, shivers ran down her spine. The devouring smell of the zombies behind them became almost annihilating. She shuddered.

”Now!” He urged her. Gently he placed one last kiss on her forehead. “You need to leave now. Don’t mind me, really. Just leave.”

Hazel’s eyes shut for a moment and when she opened them, she was ready. As ready as she could be.

She didn’t waste another moment and sprinted off, she ignored the screams, the groans, the sound of battle behind her.

She knew where to go. She knew the sacrifice that he, Grayson, her boyfriend, had made. She hated it. But there was nothing she could do but run back to the camp, run back to the ruins they’d been resting in and telling this story to all the friend’s and accomplices they’d made along the way.