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Reading list, November 2023

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Renowned music producer Rick Rubin's minimalist philosophy in music production and mentorship, artist Olafur Eliasson's immersive installations, filmmaker Christopher Nolan's intricate storytelling, Victorian-era genre of sage writing, Yoda and Mr. Miyagi; designer Dieter Rams, Patagonia and TED Talks.


This month’s reading list delves into diverse manifestations of the Sage archetype in Veeram rasa, exploring artistic expressions, published ideas, and characters across various domains.


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Archetype → Sage

Rasa → Veeram


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November 2023


Artistic expressions channelling archetype in rasa

  • Rick Rubin is known for his minimalist approach to music production. He often encourages artists to strip down their sound to its essential elements, allowing the raw, authentic qualities of the music to shine. He is known for his mentorship role with artists. His collaborative approach involves providing guidance and insight to help musicians discover their true artistic voices.

  • Olafur Eliasson (b. 1967): Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson is known for his immersive installations that often engage with nature, light, and perception. His work encourages viewers to contemplate their relationship with the environment, demonstrating a thoughtful and reflective approach.

  • Christopher Nolan is known for his intricate and cerebral storytelling, his films often explore complex concepts of time, memory, and human nature. Works like "Inception" and "Interstellar" showcase a deep intellectual engagement with the narrative and cinematic form.


Published ideas of archetype in rasa

  • Sage writing was a genre of creative nonfiction popular in the Victorian era. It was a development from ancient wisdom literature in which the writer chastises and instructs the reader about contemporary social issues, often utilising discourses of philosophy, history, politics, and economics in non-technical ways. Prominent examples of the genre include writings by Thomas Carlyle, Matthew Arnold, John Ruskin, and Henry David Thoreau. Some 20th-century writers, such as Joan Didion and New Journalists such as Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe, can also serve as examples of contemporary sage writing.

  • Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, first published in 2005. Levitt and Dubner apply economic principles to examine a wide range of unconventional topics, revealing unexpected connections and insights. The book challenges readers to question assumptions and think differently about the world around them.

  • The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life" by Mark Manson (2016): Manson challenges conventional self-help advice and explores the pursuit of a meaningful life. He offers candid insights into values, priorities, and the importance of embracing life's challenges.


Characters channelling archetype in rasa

  • Yoda, the iconic character from Star Wars, is often seen as embodying the Sage archetype. He serves as a mentor and guide to the Jedi. Sages often transcend the ordinary world and possess a deeper understanding of the universe. Yoda, being a Jedi Master, has a profound connection to the Force, allowing him to transcend the limitations of the physical world. His resilience and determination in the face of adversity align with the heroic aspects of the Veeram rasa.

  • Mr. Miyagi is a martial arts master and mentor in the Karate Kid film series. He imparts not only physical skills but also life lessons to his protégé, Daniel.

  • Gandalf is a wizard and a mentor figure in J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series. He guides and supports the protagonists in their quest, offering wisdom and magical assistance.


Channelling the archetype in rasa for business

  • Dieter Rams, the German industrial designer famous for his work at Braun and the "Ten Principles of Good Design," crafted products marked by simplicity, functionality, and a user-centric focus. By prioritizing essential functions and eliminating unnecessary elements, Rams created user-friendly and visually appealing Braun products, contributing to their broad appeal. His emphasis on functionality ensured the longevity and reliability of Braun's offerings. Instead of chasing trends, Rams aimed to design timeless and enduring products, maintaining Braun's relevance and contributing to its sustained success. This commitment to consistency not only reinforced the brand identity but also fostered consumer trust and recognition.

  • TED Talks embody the Sage archetype by providing a platform for individuals to share valuable insights and knowledge. The emphasis is on education, inspiration, and the exchange of ideas. The platform has a reputation for distilling complex ideas into accessible and engaging presentations, allowing for a clear and straightforward understanding of often intricate subjects. It serves as an ideal example of a business who’s aim is to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and societal progress. The heroic element lies in the potential for these talks to inspire viewers to take action and contribute to positive societal transformation.

  • Patagonia, renowned for its environmental commitment, initiated the Worn Wear campaign, urging customers to buy used gear and promoting a message of longevity and reduced environmental impact. The company's sustainability and activism involve wise manufacturing choices to minimize its ecological footprint. With transparency about its supply chain and environmental impact, Patagonia plays the role of a steward for the environment, demonstrating heroism through efforts to protect natural spaces and inspire positive change in the industry. Beyond product sales, the company educates consumers about environmental issues through campaigns, blog posts, and documentaries.




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