"What can be asserted without proof can be dismissed without proof." - Christopher Hitchens
Mon Jan 19, 2009
My Overdue Best of 2008 List
Its pure procrastination that I haven't posted anything yet in the new year. And it's clearly tradition in the blogosphere to do a Best or Worst of 2008. Far be it from me to buck tradition! Here are my top 5 for 2008 (these were so great, 6 though 10 seemed like they didnt belong) as well as some interesting, humorous, and poignant lists from some other sites. I felt like I had to make sure you all saw them.
Sean's Top 5 of 2008
1) Miles Liam Shun Smith - nothing in this world will ever equal to joy of becoming a father. How amazing then that this new person is the single coolest, most beautiful, most awe-inspiring individual I've met. Everything below here is a pale shadow to my son.
2) Sean Smith, Master of Practical Philosophy and Applied Ethics - I finished my Masters degree in Philosophy (Ethics). I managed to do so despite a distant relocation to Oregon, a full-time job, and a growing family (see above). Despite my brain exhaustion (what was my thesis on again?!?), I'm allowing myself the selfish pleasure of being proud of this accomplishment!
3) Barack Obama - well, this is de riguer I suppose. But his handling of the election, as well as the Death-Row-Reprieve-feeling of his success, certainly made this author optimistic of our nation's democratic process.
4) Superheroes Go Legit - a long time fan of graphical story-telling, it was heartening to see cinema's adaptation of it in a mature and intelligent way. The Escapism-cum-morality play of Iron Man, the deconstruction of the human emotional state of the Hulk, and especially the astounding reveal of the hero's ultimate conundrum of The Dark Knight, all treated audiences with respect as well as rewarded fans with something they never thought they'd see - their beloved dreams hypermagnified on film in a way that honored the art form. As a fan, it was orgasmic.
5) Wrath of the Lich King - This is on here only because it dominated the last half of 2008 for me. World of Warcraft, despite my many friend's entreaties that it is a waste of time, is enormously entertaining and well-crafted. Blizzard's legendary game-balance skills, the gorgeous art direction (so much so that I own the companion art book), the fun and interesting world design, and just so many little touches, made this new expansion a constant source of "oh wow! look at that!" moments. Harpoon-surfing, the Death Knight campaign, helping those damn murlocs, and that surprise cinematic of the lich-king confrontation all made me smile in glee. Each day, I wanted to grab someone to show them what I just saw! Yes, it's that good and a far better way to spend one's time than watching TV. Lok'tar!
