A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Episode 5: A Deep Dive into Culture and Entertainment
Welcome to a curated exploration of the cultural landscape, inspired by the captivating world of television, literature, music, and art. This week, we delve into the surprising delights of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, alongside recommendations from Sally Jenkins, a seasoned staff writer known for her insightful reporting on sports and culture.
The Allure of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
Sally Jenkins was pleasantly surprised by the lighthearted tone of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The prequel series offers a refreshing reversal from the relentless ruthlessness of Game of Thrones, demonstrating a masterful understanding of storytelling. It’s a prime example of how to captivate an audience that believed they’d seen it all. The show embodies a screenwriting principle highlighted by David Niven’s autobiography: the power of subversion and unexpected twists. Just as Chaplin suggested a setup and then a surprising fall, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms delivers a narrative that feels both familiar and utterly new.
Looking Ahead: Entertainment on the Horizon
Beyond the current enjoyment of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Jenkins eagerly anticipates the next season of The Diplomat, praising its intelligent writing. She also recommends Project Hail Mary, noting that there’s simply no such thing as a bad space movie or a bad heist movie.
Inspired by the Masters
Jenkins’s admiration extends to the performers who consistently deliver exceptional work. Meryl Streep, in particular, stands out for her unwavering commitment to her craft – an athletic approach to acting that transcends mere physicality.
Blockbusters and Art House Gems
When it comes to favorite films, Jenkins champions Aliens as a groundbreaking blockbuster that ushered in the era of the female action hero, paving the way for characters like Uma Thurman’s The Bride in Kill Bill and Charlize Theron’s Imperator Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road. On the art house front, she highlights the mosaic-like quality of I’m Not There, a film she’s revisited multiple times, and Tár, a compelling and thought-provoking work.
Literary and Non-Fiction Treasures
In the realm of novels, Ian McEwan’s What We Can Know earns high praise for its ability to create a believable world, even within the bounds of fiction. For non-fiction, Sidney Blumenthal’s biography of Abraham Lincoln is lauded for its meticulous research and insightful details, revealing fresh perspectives on a well-known historical figure. You can learn more about Lincoln’s life at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park.
Poetry, Music, and Emotional Resonance
Gerard Manley Hopkins’s “God’s Grandeur” is a poem that continues to resonate with Jenkins, thanks to its groundbreaking rhythm and vivid imagery. Musically, she finds solace in Joni Mitchell’s rerecorded version of “Both Sides Now,” a poignant reflection on growing older, and energy in “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers, a modern sports-stadium anthem.
Moments of Profound Impact
Jenkins recalls the original production of Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia as a deeply moving experience, and the ludicrous perfection of hockey bodies on Heated Rivalry as a source of laughter. She also cherishes Michelangelo’s David, recognizing it as a masterful portrayal of an athlete, capturing the essence of pre-action energy.
Artistic Inspiration and Lasting Impressions
A recent visit to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) and Anselm Kiefer’s installation, including Women of the Revolution, proved to be a particularly impactful experience. She also revisits Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird to study its masterful creation of mood and apprehension, a skill crucial in sportswriting. Finally, she commends Nellie Bowles’s Friday column for The Free Press for its thought-provoking perspectives.
The Humanities: A Continuing Crisis
As highlighted in a recent essay, the humanities face ongoing challenges, including funding shortages and a lack of public engagement. The issues identified decades ago persist, underscoring the need for continued support and advocacy for these vital fields of study. You can read more about the challenges facing the humanities here.
