Hello, everyone, from your Arts & Culture editor. It’s only a few weeks into the new school year, but I imagine everyone—like myself—is feeling the burn as readings begin to pile on and midterms approach. However, even as you’re killing the academic game, you must remember to take a break from the law school world for some time and do something you enjoy.
Outside of schoolwork, my favourite things to do are listening to music, reading books, and watching movies. I also like to make recommendations of my favourites to others. With autumn upon us, I wanted to provide some media recommendations for students interested in getting into that fall vibe as they take a break from the stress of school.
Music
The Glow, Pt. 2 (2001, by The Microphones). I listen to this eerie, dark album every October because it feels like walking through the woods on a chilly, cloudy day. It mixes the haunting, terrifying, and grim with elements of warmth, beauty, and acceptance—a juxtaposition suited to the fall season. My favourite tracks on this one are “Headless Horseman” and “I Felt My Size.”
Helplessness Blues (2001, by Fleet Foxes). Indie folk is a genre I listen to more often in the autumn, and this album feels like it was specifically made for the season. Moreover, the evocative lyrics and themes presented here are perfect for anyone in their early 20s or in law school. The title track is my favourite.
Ocean Rain (1984, by Echo & the Bunnymen). The existential imagery, relaxing and stripped-back melodies, and the beautiful orchestrations make this my personal choice for an early-autumn favourite. If nothing else, listen to “The Killing Moon,” which is a mysterious tune that makes me feel like I’m standing in a haunted forest at night.
Books
We Have Always Lived in the Castle (1962, by Shirley Jackson). Any Shirley Jackson is appropriate for autumn, but this is my favourite story of hers. Unsettling and creepy, it tells the story of a strange, isolated family and the struggle that ensues when an estranged relative arrives at their estate.
Norwegian Wood (1987, by Haruki Murakami). A coming of age story, centred around the idea that death is just as much a part of reality as life—and the beauty of that coexistence. Such a theme is, I think, pertinent in the fall. This is a profound book, as is most Murakami work.
Interview with the Vampire (1976, by Anne Rice). Quintessential gothic romance, this book is pretty much exactly what it says on the tin. There are some very dark subjects discussed here, so I’d look up content warnings beforehand. Also, the AMC adaptation of this book is absolutely brilliant (and arguably better than the book).
Movies
Crimson Peak (2015, dir. Guillermo del Toro). A young woman is swept away to a gothic mansion. There, she begins to unpack a mystery with the help of the ghosts that haunt her new home. Need I say more? Atmospheric, eerie, and beautiful, this is one of my fall favourites.
Twin Peaks (1990, dir. David Lynch). I’m cheating, because this is a show, but it also has several movies attached to it. It would be difficult not to include this series on a list of autumn recommendations when its mystery perfectly encapsulates the eerie, lonely, and beautiful atmosphere of the season. It’s also exceptionally good, so well worth the time investment.
Jennifer’s Body (2009, dir. Karyn Kusama). This could be the best movie of all time. Perfect campy horror. Just watch it!