Folklore predates recorded history. At its base definition, folklore is communal stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations via word of mouth. That means many avenues of oral storytelling can be reasonably defined as folklore; ballads, proverbs, riddles, oral epics (Homeric poems), and plays to count a few. The list goes on. There are easy answers to how some aspects of folklore have survived today. After all, we all tell stories often, and enjoy lending an ear to rumo...

We all debate most days in some form. This is especially true for teens, who spend much of their time contesting topics with either peers or parents! It may also be true to say that the state of public discourse is in tatters. There’s endless amounts of vitriol flooding into cyberspace, as well as inflammatory statements made by those who are supposed to have the coolest heads and most sensible outlooks. Where do you fit into this picture? Well, it’s important to watch how people settle their di...

Knowing history is a point of pride for many people. There’s a lot to be learned from the trials and tribulations of those who came before us. Learning about it all can be a show of respect for their plight, too. Many Americans, in particular, yearn to feel closer to their heritage, and value history on that basis too. However, it’s also true that many nations only teach ‘their version’ of history in school. In 2021, an e-petition was launched calling on the government to teach more of Britain’s

There aren’t many people who claim they enjoy giving presentations. It’s certainly not everybody’s cup of tea. However, the presentation is a powerful tool. They allow people to share their ideas without interruption. The presenter can also argue their points while being backed up with data and intriguing findings, too, making their efforts at persuasion far more effective. Of course, homeschooled pupils like yourself can face different challenges here too. Public speaking skills can be hard to...

ChatGPT is an AI language tool that can produce essays, blog posts and prose in a matter of seconds. It’s applications have been numerous already, and you’re likely familiar with the ins and outs of it too. That said, we’re all thinking about how the technology might be utilised in the future too. The consensus is often changing. Some countries have gone so far as to ban ChatGPT, and then reinstate its use later, for instance. It’s a new technology, and that means (hopefully responsibly) testing...

Much of essay writing is about persuasiveness. Often, stronger points are more concise in their structure. Of course, many young scholars will try to pad out their word counts however they can. Still, real academia is about quality, not quantity. Anyone can babble on for minutes on end – what really matters is the nuance and thought behind what you’re presenting in your writing. There is also the case that essay writing is becoming more dubious in nature. Some people would rather let artificial...

Best created in fictitious literature, and by nature over the course of a series, lore is artfully crafted to add new meaning and depth to imaginary worlds. It’s wandlore in Harry Potter, detailing how the quasi-sentient instruments of witches and wizards are handled and utilised. It’s also how Middle-earth was created by music, before the elves of Valinor waged war on the first dark lord, Morgoth. Understandably, some are put off slightly by lore in their literature. Often, it’s vast and overw

Eager for the perfect finale to your magical wedding? Look at these UK honeymoon destinations to discover your perfect staycation! You don't need to travel abroad to enjoy bustling cities, sandy beaches and calm countryside. Why not consider a staycation honeymoon instead? You'd spend less time travelling, and so this option would be better for the environment too! Here are some UK honeymoon destinations and ideas to remind you of just how charming and romantic our beautiful country can be! Bo

The workplace is a tough place to make an impression. Still, most employees are keen to stand out from the crowd, and want to ensure they come across in a positive way. Therefore, this begs the question; should you speak up more, or let your work do the talking? Well, the answers aren’t quite so black and white. Let’s look into the matter in more detail. It might seem like a rude thing to say, but ‘knowing your place’ is important at work. If you act and behave in a way that is above your stat

Getting into the world of film and TV is no small feat. The film industry in the UK is highly successful, bolstering the economy and providing opportunities for budding film makers. Of course, with the success of an industry comes competition for those on the lookout for a look in, as creative minds vie to present their art to any and all. While it may seem that the major TV and film production companies keep their doors firmly closed to the masses, they actually acquire interns in a steady flo

Internships are a great way to bolster your CV. Overall, they give the impression of you being both productive and skilled. There’s little to lose in going for one, and they can be a snazzy way of garnering knowledge and discovering passions. If you’re gunning for some experience, then well done! You’re willing to put the effort in and earn your place in the working world through some hard graft. Pat yourself on the back and be proud! Still, every now and then an internship comes along that se

After taking a year off, singer-songwriter and musical genius Ed Sheeran is back with his third studio album, Divide. The whole world has been waiting with baited breath for Ed Sheeran’s latest offering, anticipating yet another series of smash hit records to get their hearts racing. Since releasing his seven-times platinum debut album Plus all the way back in September 9 2011, Sheeran has become a superstar by taking his lyrical songs to the global stage. His follow-up Multiply was released in

We interviewed popular comedian Josie Long to discuss her political activism and current ‘Josie Long: Something Better’ U.K. tour. So recently we had a very strong anti-Trump rally in the heart of York along with the rest of the country, I don’t know if you knew that? It was really good! And Billy Bragg and Joe Henry’s gig also had a strong anti-trump tone, so your timing in York seems perfect pretty much! And I was just wandering if Trump in your gig, is he the elephant in the room, is he the

We interviewed singer-songwriter and musician Newton Faulkner to discuss his forthcoming album, fans, stints in the acting world, and his upcoming gig in York supporting Amy Macdonald. So I thought we’d start by talking about your sixth album, which you’re releasing toward the end of the summer – congratulations on that! And with your fourth album Studio Zoo you shared the entire recording process with fans online and that is hands down the coolest thing I’ve heard in making music, that’s reall

English folk/punk rock singer-songwriter Billy Bragg and American singer-songwriter and guitarist Joe Henry stopped by York’s Grand Opera House on the 24th January for a truly special performance that was no run of the mill gig. By George Alexander Moss Photos by Andy Argyle After meeting in New York City and embarking on a 30-year friendship, Billy Bragg and Joe Henry are currently on their eagerly anticipated Shine a Light tour. The tour is a great undertaking that sees the duet perform songs...

Titan Comics tackles The Time War as Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor and John Hurt’s War Doctor return for a new adventure. ‘The Organ Grinder’ is part of the Eleventh Doctors ongoing comic book story and the start of a new story arc. During the run of the television series, the Time War was but a great, intriguing mystery. Doctors 9, 10 and 11 rarely spoke of it, and when they did it was through tears and sour expressions. But in this new story, fans are helped to further understand as to just wh