Give Up This August

2024 in film, books, and music (so far)

Historically, nothing good has ever happened to me in August. I’m always too sweaty, dehydrated beyond belief, and surrounded by the moist, pungent stench of New York City garbage. Combined, the circumstances breed a peculiar strain of chaos within me. I am especially vulnerable, weak, and tired at this time of year.

This time, I have managed to avoid (most of) the garbage by camping out in Lisbon for the first time, which made me realize that I never want to experience a New York August ever again if I can help it. And while the sea and the mountains offer a much better backdrop to wait out the heat, my defenses are still up. I will not let this dreaded month rob me of my peace.

Taken in Berlin (June-July 2024)

This is why I am taking a brief Substack hiatus until September. Thanks to my Virgo rising (and nothing else, I’m sure), I’ve posted here at least once a month since January 2023. And while I owe House of Fun so much for reminding me how to find joy in writing again, I’m realizing that the well is running dry a…