Land of Imagery

(written 15/10/09)

The week before last, I came to the realization that though Wales is known as the "Land of Song", London should be known as the "Land of Imagery." This term "Land of Imagery" refers to the people's character, personality. Its seems to me everyone has image or persona, which they portray to public. Most of the time when you meet a person, you don't get to know the real person, you just know the image. And a lot of times, they don't want you see them for who they are. Asking a few questions in a row are seen as a taboo or faux pas here.

At first I was so upset, because I could not understand why personification or imagery is necessary all the time. Certainly it's good in moderation, but if your lifestyle is centered upon image this can be problem not only for the person, but the people around the person as well.

Certainly in America, some people act like "larger than life", but in UK I think its safe to say people take it to another level. And even though there is a degree of Imagery, it doesn't seem like there is a fakeness vibe. Versus in America where when people have persona it can come off as being fake in some degree.

Recently, I had to sit down with myself and decide on how I would adapt. Questions of should I create an 24/7 image? Should I ever try to get know people for me for who they really are? Should I just try to steer clear of the idea itself?

They say "when in Rome do like Romans." Well early in October, I decided to try it. As silly as this may sound the transformation from 'Brandi to B' occurs when I put on my shades (sunglasses). While Brandi is very intelligent, sophisticated, introvert, caring, and serious. B is more analytical common sense savy, posh, extrovert, care-free, and nonchalant. It's like having alter-ego, which is actually quite fun at times and can give you an extra boost of assertiveness. I like the light-switch effect, being able to turn it off and on.

The problem always occurs when you want to get to know someone. I'm still dealing with this issue. I will keep you posted if I discover how to crack the code or if I just decide to give up on getting to know people.

Quote of the Week: "You have to know who you are for yourself."

-Cheers,

Black Girl in Wales

(p.s. the picture of the building is Bute Journalism school, which is I have classes here in Cardiff)