Hi! Yes, it's the Bean-Sized Bulletin!
We're starting this issue with a new minimalist interface and more of what you like β cool and new content (in English) for curious minds out there.
Thank you for being here, reading this and supporting what we are creating. It means the world! π
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β’ Are you looking for an IELTS course with a safe space and supportive peers? Preparing for the IELTS can be daunting and leave you feeling overwhelmed. A new class is forming now! Fill this form for more information.
β’ Looking for a summer read? All subscribers get 10% off all Pre-loved books. Check out our book (and game) selection here. Discount offer ends January 20!
Allegory (noun) /ΛΓ¦lΙΙ‘ΙΛri/
The figurative style known as allegory has nothing to do with alligators β unless you're telling a story where alligators represent evil forces snapping at humanity.
An allegory is like a metaphor on steroids: a writer tells a fictional story where everything and everyone in it is supposed to represent a deeper meaning.
Did you know the original βMatrixβ movie was a trans allegory?
Check out Creesa Beer's short animation "Me and The Matrix" to learn more about it and her experience watching the original "Matrix" movie for the first time. It's a wonderful little animation! π
I'm a fan of the Moth. I love stories as much as I love the humans behind those stories. I am grateful they exist.
I was on a walk when I came across Sejal Pachisia's story. Her story is about reflection, recognition, and her search for the perfect Indian lesbian to meet her parents.
Listen, reflect, answer: have you ever hidden parts of yourself from someone you cared about?
β’ "Enter Blanco White's bewitching world and you won't want to leave. Sensual songs unfurtl like spells, time seems to stand still. Close your eyes and you could be dreaming. Magic, you'd swear, was at work." - Spotify
Blanco White's Colder Heavens is a song I often have on repeat. I'm not sure I can put into words what is it about that song. I just know it's a piece of art no one should go with out hearing.
β’ Move over Evernote... and Apple Notes!
Bear does away with folders and notebooks, giving you a place to simply create notes and store them. It also omits elaborate text styling, opting instead for Markdown language.
Federico Viticci has a great piece that goes pretty in-depth on what makes the app so powerful.
"Florence is an evocation of the beauty, sadness and hope that comes from any human connection we make in our lives, whether with art, nature or another person. It's a succinct and incredibly successful exploration of moments you'll recognise from your own life" - Nintendo Life
Games don't need to be long to be memorable and enjoyable by all. Florence is relatable and all around cleverly designed. Save 67% on Florence on Steam today!
Curated with love by Rose Cortijo, BEO (Bean Executive Officer).
For months now, I have set time aside to reflect. Whether Iβm reading a book, having a conversation or planning a lesson. I reflect. This practice has brought me all sorts of feelings and it is, in a way, a practice of justice for me.
Whether youβre setting the tone for a new year or bringing closure to the year thatβs passed, please know that this is all for you to do on your own terms and in your own time. As always, I wish you nothing but radical care with a side of joy. π